[House Document 105-8]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
105th Congress, 1st Session - - - - - - - - - - - House Document 105-8
National Report Disabled American Veterans 1996
New Orleans Hilton Riverside,
New Orleans, Louisiana
July 27-August 1, 1996
1996--NATIONAL REPORT, DISABLED AMERICAN VETERANS--1996
105th Congress, 1st Session - - - - - - - - - - - House Document 105-8
DISABLED AMERICAN VETERANS
75TH NATIONAL CONVENTION
COMMUNICATION
from
THE NATIONAL ADJUTANT
DISABLED AMERICAN VETERANS
transmitting
THE REPORT OF THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE ORGANIZATION'S 75th NATIONAL
CONVENTION, INCLUDING THEIR ANNUAL AUDIT REPORT OF RECEIPTS AND
EXPENDITURES AS OF DECEMBER 31, 1995--RECEIVED IN THE U.S. HOUSE OF
REPRESENTATIVES NOVEMBER 14, 1996, PURSUANT TO 36 U.S.C. 90i AND 44
U.S.C. 1332
January 7, 1997.--Referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs and
ordered to be printed
U.S. CODE, TITLE 44, SECTION 1332
national encampments of veterans' organizations; proceedings printed
annually for congress
The proceedings of the national encampments of the United
Spanish War Veterans, the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the
United States, The American Legion, the Military Order of the
Purple Heart, the Veterans of World War I of the United States,
Inc., the Disabled American Veterans, and the AMVETS (American
Veterans of World War II), respectively, shall be printed
annually with accompanying illustrations, as separate House
documents of the session of the Congress to which they maybe
submitted.
[Approved October 2, 1968.]
LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL
----------
Disabled American Veterans,
October 30, 1996.
Hon. Newt Gingrich,
Speaker of the House of Representatives,
Washington, DC.
Dear Mr. Speaker: As business manager of the Disabled
American Veterans, and as secretary of its National Convention,
I hereby certify as to the authenticity of the reports and the
proceedings of our National Convention, held in New Orleans,
Louisiana, July 27-August 1, 1996, and submit them to you
through the office of this organization located in Washington,
DC, pursuant to the provisions of Public Law 186 of the 72d
Congress, as amended, to be printed as a House document in
accordance with the authorization of section 1332 of title 44,
United States Code.
The enclosed National Convention proceedings include an
independent audit report of all receipts and expenditures as of
December 31, 1995, as required by the provisions of section 3
of the Public Law 88-504, approved August 30, 1964.
Sincerely,
Arthur H. Wilson,
National Adjutant.
C O N T E N T S
----------
JOINT OPENING SESSION, SUNDAY AFTERNOON, JULY 28, 1996
Page
Call to Order, Commander Thomas A. McMasters III................. 1
Convention Chairman's Remarks.................................... 3
Commander's Report............................................... 5
Address, President William J. Clinton............................ 9
Address, Secretary of Veterans Affairs Jesse Brown............... 20
Introductions.................................................... 24
Auxiliary Commander's Report..................................... 25
Presentation of Awards:
Outstanding Auxiliary Member of the Year..................... 28
Outstanding Disabled Veteran of the Year..................... 29
George H. Seal Memorial...................................... 31
Sweepstakes Winner........................................... 33
Convention Committee Advisor Appointments........................ 34
Recess........................................................... 34
FIRST BUSINESS SESSION, MONDAY MORNING, JULY 29, 1996
Call to Order, Commander Thomas A. McMasters III................. 35
First Credentials Committee Report............................... 35
Adoption of Rules................................................ 36
Adoption of Statement of Policy.................................. 36
Adjutant's Report................................................ 38
Membership Report and Awards..................................... 45
National Finance Committee Report................................ 47
List of Delegates and Alternates for Convention Committees....... 71
Hospital and Voluntary Services Convention Committee Report...... 77
Address, Congressman Steve Buyer................................. 85
Committee on Employment Report................................... 92
Recess........................................................... 103
SECOND BUSINESS SESSION, MONDAY AFTERNOON, JULY 29, 1996
Call to Order, Commander Thomas A. McMasters III................. 103
Report of Washington Headquarters Executive Director............. 104
Written Reports:
National Service Director.................................... 108
Recapitulation of Service Activities......................... 116
National Director of Voluntary Services...................... 147
National Employment Director................................. 152
National Legislative Director................................ 156
Re Amendment to Convention Rules................................. 174
Presentation from Department of Louisiana........................ 174
Committee on General Resolutions and Membership Report........... 174
Presentation of Employment Awards................................ 189
Vietnam Veterans National Memorial Report........................ 193
First Reading of Amendments to Constitution and Bylaws........... 197
Recess........................................................... 202
THIRD BUSINESS SESSION, TUESDAY MORNING, JULY 30, 1996
Call to Order, Commander Thomas A. McMasters III................. 202
Credentials Report............................................... 203
Introductions and Remarks, National Order of Trench Rats......... 203
Presentation from Chapel of Four Chaplains....................... 204
Committee on Finance and Dues Report............................. 205
National Service Foundation Report............................... 206
Committee on Legislation and Veterans' Rights Report............. 224
Final Reading of Amendments to Constitution and Bylaws........... 247
Recess........................................................... 257
FINAL BUSINESS SESSION, THURSDAY MORNING, AUGUST 1, 1996
Call to Order, Commander Thomas A. McMasters III................. 257
Remarks, President, Commanders and Adjutants Association......... 258
Remarks, National Order of Trench Rats........................... 258
Final Credentials Report......................................... 259
Committee on Nomination of National Officers Report.............. 260
Nomination and Election of National Officers..................... 260
Newly Elected Officers Remarks................................... 263
Presentations.................................................... 270
Announcement of New NEC Members.................................. 270
Adjournment...................................................... 271
INDEX OF MOTIONS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Motion Page Action Page
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Accept commander's report........ ....... Carried............ .......
Adopt Rules...................... ....... Carried............ .......
Amend............................ ....... Carried............ .......
Adopt Policy Statement........... ....... Carried............ .......
Accept Adjutant's report......... ....... Carried............ .......
Accept Membership report......... ....... Carried............ .......
Accept Finance Committee report, ....... Carried............ .......
etc.
Admit into record list of ....... Carried............ .......
convention committees, etc..
Adopt resolutions of Hospital and ....... Carried............ .......
Voluntary Services Committee.
Adopt report and resolutions from ....... Carried............ .......
Employment Committee, etc.
Adopt Rules as amended........... ....... Carried............ .......
Adopt report of Committee on ....... Carried............ .......
General Resolutions and
Membership.
Adopt Resolution 58.............. ....... Lost............... .......
Adopt Resolution 59.............. ....... Lost............... .......
Adopt Resolution 76.............. ....... Lost............... .......
Accept report of Vietnam Veterans ....... Carried............ .......
Memorial.
Adopt report of Committee on ....... Carried............ .......
Finance and Dues, etc..
Accept Service Foundation report. ....... Carried............ .......
Adopt report of Committee on ....... Carried............ .......
Legislation and Veterans' Rights.
Adopt resolutions from
Constitution and Bylaws
Committee:
Number 197................... ....... Carried............ .......
Numbers 200 through 217...... ....... Carried............ .......
Number 254................... ....... Carried............ .......
Number 218................... ....... Carried............ .......
Discharge committee with vote of ....... Carried............ .......
thanks.
Adopt final credentials report... ....... Carried............ .......
Accept report of Committee on ....... Carried............ .......
Nomination and Election of
Officers, etc.
Discharge Credentials Committee ....... Carried............ .......
Adjourn.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NATIONAL OFFICERS 1996-97
DISABLED AMERICAN VETERANS
National Commander
Gregory C. Reed, 6924 N. Fairfax Drive, #114, Arlington, VA 22213
Senior Vice Commander
Harry R. McDonald, Jr., 6161 North Highway 393, Crestview, FL 32539
First Junior Vice Commander
William D. Wiggins, 302 Starmont Drive, Danville, VA 24540
Second Junior Vice Commander
Andrew A. Kistler, 802 Grant Street, Franklin, PA 16323
Third Junior Vice Commander
Michael E. Dobmeier, P.O. Box 6811, Grand Forks, ND 58206-6188
Fourth Junior Vice Commander
Richard Christopher, 6 Catalpa Street, Saugus, MA 01906-2931
National Judge Advocate
Edward G. Galian, 200 Atlantic Avenue, #1, Lynbrook, NY 11563
National Chaplain
Rev. Carl E. Bergstrom, 17 Brookmoor Road, Dover, NH 03820-5303
Past National Commander
Thomas A. McMasters III, 11965 Steven Drive, Sterling Hts., MI 48312
NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
First district: Everett J. Nygard, Jr., 314 Otter River Road,
Templeton, MA 01468
Second district: Sal R. Tornatore, 170 W. 22nd St., Huntington
Station, NY 11746
Third district: David A. Schiapo, 65 Beacon Street, Cranston,
RI 02910
Fourth district: Grover Don Penn, 2116 Elder Drive, Wilmington,
DE 19808
Fifth district: Donald C. Graffius, 1606 Montier Street,
Pittsburgh, PA 15221
Sixth district: Josue N. Saez, Guadalupe 26, El Almo, Guaynabo,
PR 00969
Seventh district: Tommy R. Simms, 333 Hollywood Blvd. NW, Ft.
Walton Bch., FL 32548
Eighth district: Charles W. Mills, 2241 Edinburgh Drive,
Montgomery, AL 36116
Ninth district: Ronald L. Voegeli, 702 Battery Creek Road,
Beaufort, SC 29902
Tenth district: Roger L. Jansen, 4925 Butternut Drive, Holland,
MI 49424
Eleventh district: Nicholas J. Border, 7306 Kingsman-Nickerson
Road, Kinsman, OH 44428
Twelfth district: Richard R. Harris, 40154 Lakeview Avenue,
Antioch, IL 60002
Thirteenth district: Glen E. Vogel, Sr., P.O. Box 353,
Wolcottville, IN 46795
Fourteenth district: Harry VandeMore, 48402 292nd Street,
Hudson, SD 57034
Fifteenth district: Francis E. McLaskey, 3130 33rd Avenue SW,
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
Sixteenth district: Robert D. Salisbury, 2562 N. Courtland St.,
Orange, CA 92867
Seventeenth district: Stanley L. Miller, 1102 E. Wood,
Carlsbad, NM 88220
Eighteenth district: Michael J. Smaydy, 321 S. Lynx Creek Road,
Prescott, AZ 86303
Nineteenth district: Fred G. Ruppert, 2352 Broadmoor Avenue,
Fairbanks, AK 99709
Twentieth district: William A. Bone, 205 Coventry Drive,
Hewitt, TX 76643
Twenty-first district: Adrian H. Hunt, 123 Apache Drive,
Searcy, AR 72143
NATIONAL OFFICERS 1995-96
DISABLED AMERICAN VETERANS
National Commander
Thomas A. McMasters III, 11965 Steven Drive, Sterling Hts., MI 48312
Senior Vice Commander
Gregory C. Reed, 6924 N. Fairfax Drive, #114, Arlington, VA 22213
First Junior Vice Commander
Harry R. McDonald, Jr., 6161 North Highway 393, Crestview, FL 32539
Second Junior Vice Commander
William D. Wiggins, 302 Starmont Drive, Danville, VA 24540
Third Junior Vice Commander
Andrew A. Kistler, 802 Grant Street, Franklin, PA 16323
Fourth Junior Vice Commander
Michael E. Dobmeier, P.O. Box 6811, Grand Forks, ND 58206-6188
National Judge Advocate
Edward G. Galian, 200 Atlantic Avenue, #1, Lynbrook, NY 11563
National Chaplain
Rev. Oscar I. Wilkie, 518 Houston, Muskogee, OK 74403
Past National Commander
Donald A. Sioss, 11 Miller Woods Drive, Miller Place, NY 11764
NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
First district: Everett J. Nygard, Jr., 314 Otter River Road,
Templeton, MA 01468
Second district: George R. LePorte, 72 Oswego Street,
Baldwinsville, NY 13027
Third district: David A. Schiapo, 65 Beacon Street, Cranston,
RI 02910
Fourth district: Albert R. Fanslau, 26 E. Reading Avenue,
Pleasantville, NJ 07232
Fifth district: Donald C. Graffius, 1606 Montier Street,
Pittsburgh, PA 15221
Sixth district: Carl J. Carter, 5025 Illinois Avenue, NW,
Washington, DC 20011
Seventh district: Tommy R. Simms, 333 Hollywood Blvd. NW, Ft.
Walton Bch., FL 32548
Eighth district: John A. Bell, 547 Spryfield Road, Jackson, MS
39212
Ninth district: Ronald L. Voegeli, 702 Battery Creek Road,
Beaufort, SC 29902
Tenth district: Lowell G. McKeehan, 20360 Beatrice Street,
Livonia, MI 48152
Eleventh district: Nicholas J. Border, 7306 Kingsman-Nickerson
Road, Kinsman, OH 44428
Twelfth district: Dorothy R. Schilling 6205 Highway V,
Caledonia, WI 53108
Thirteenth district: Glen E. Vogel, Sr., P.O. Box 353,
Wolcottville, IN 46795
Fourteenth district: Victor C. Hass, P.O. Box 204, Bowbells, ND
48721
Fifteenth district: Francis E. McLaskey, 3130 33rd Avenue SW,
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
Sixteenth district: Charles H. Demele, 38 San Felipe Court,
Salinas, CA 93901
Seventeenth district: Stanley L. Miller, 1102 E. Wood,
Carlsbad, NM 88220
Eighteenth district: Edwin K. Wise, 85-128 E. Ala Walua Street,
Waianae, HI 96792
Nineteenth district: Fred G. Ruppert, 2352 Broadmoor Avenue,
Fairbanks, AK 99709
Twentieth district: Earl D. Walker, P.O. Box 1492, Kingsland,
TX 78639
Twenty-first district: Adrian H. Hunt, 123 Apache Drive,
Searcy, AR 72143
PAST NATIONAL COMMANDERS
1921-22: Robert S. Marx, Cincinnati, Ohio
(deceased 1960)
1922-23: C. Hamilton Cook, Buffalo, New York
(deceased 1935)
1923-24: James A. McFarland, Dalton, Georgia
(decreased 1942)
1924-25: Frank J. Irwin, New York, New York
(deceased 1942)
1925-26: John W. Mahan, Bozeman, Montana
(deceased 1947)
1926-27: John V. Clinnin, Chicago, Illinois
(deceased 1955)
1927-28: William E. Tate, Atlanta, Georgia
(deceased 1949)
1928-29: Millard W. Rice, Minneapolis,
Minnesota (deceased 1980)
1929-30: William J. Murphy, Santa Ana,
California (deceased 1931)
1930-31: H.H. Weimer, Chicago, Illinois
(deceased 1955)
1931-32: E. Claude Babcock, Washington, D.C.
(deceased 1958)
1932-33: William Conley, Los Angeles,
California (deceased 1941)
1933-34: Joe W. McQueen, Kansas City, Missouri
(deceased 1969)
1934-35: Volney P. Mooney, Jr., Los Angeles,
California (deceased 1945)
1935-36: Marvin A. Harlan, El Paso, Texas
(deceased 1970)
1936-37: M. Froome Barbour, Cincinnati, Ohio
(deceased 1985)
1937-38: Maple T. Harl, Denver, Colorado
(deceased 1957)
1938-39: Owen Galvin, Minneapolis, Minnesota
(deceased 1956)
1939-40: Lewis J. Murphy, South Bend, Indiana
(deceased 1966)
1940-41: Vincent E. Schoeck, Detroit, Michigan
(deceased 1966)
August 16, 1941-August 15, 1943:
Lawrence R. Melton, Dallas, Texas
(deceased 1978)
August 15, 1943-September 20, 1943:
William J. Dodd, Jersey City, New
Jersey (deceased 1957)
1943-44: James L. Monnahan, Minneapolis,
Minnesota (deceased 1980)
1944-45: Milton D. Cohn, Buffalo, New York
(deceased 1968)
1945-46: Dow V. Walker, Newport, Oregon
(deceased 1957)
1946-47: Lloyd F. Oleson, Ventura, California
(deceased 1982)
1947-48: John L. Golob, Hibbing, Minnesota
(deceased 1976)
1948-49: Jonathon M. Wainwright, San Antonio,
Texas (deceased 1953)
1949-50: David M. Brown, Akron, Ohio (deceased
1982)
1950-51: Boniface R. Maile, Grosse Pointe,
Michigan
1951-52: Ewing W. Mays, Little Rock, Arkansas
(deceased 1994)
1952-53: Floyd L. Ming, Bakersfield, California
(deceased 1975)
1953-54: Howard W. Watts, Indianapolis, Indiana
(deceased 1977)
1954-55: Alfred L. English, Shelbyville,
Tennessee (deceased 1987)
1955-56: Melvin J. Maas, Chevy Chase, Maryland
(deceased 1964)
1956-57: Joseph F. Burke, Bayonne, New Jersey
(deceased 1970)
1957-58: Paul E. Frederick, Jr., Cincinnati,
Ohio
1958-59: David B. Williams, Boston,
Massachusetts (deceased 1994)
1959-60: Bill H. Fribley, Crestline, Kansas
(deceased 1994)
1960-61: William O. Cooper, Dallas, Texas
(deceased 1990)
1961-62: Francis R. Buono, Whitestone, New
York, (deceased 1977)
1962-63: Peter L. Dye, Denver, Colorado
1963-64: Douglas H. McGarrity, Allen Park,
Michigan (deceased 1986)
1964-65: William G. Dwyer, San Diego,
California (deceased 1982)
1965-66: Claude L. Callegary, Baltimore,
Maryland
1966-67: John W. Unger, Sr., Danville, Illinois
(deceased 1970)
1967-68: Francis J. Beaton, Fargo, North Dakota
(deceased 1969)
1968-69: Wayne L. Sheribon, Seattle, Washington
1969-70: Raymond P. Neal, Daly City, California
1970-71: Cecil W. Stevenson, Jonesboro,
Arkansas
1971-72: Edward T. Conroy, Bowie, Maryland
(deceased 1982)
1972-73- Jack O. Hicks, Larue, Ohio
1973:74: John T. Soave, Detroit, Michigan
(deceased 1984)
1974-75: Walter T. Greaney, Jamaica Plain,
Massachusetts (deceased 1994)
1975-76: Lyle C. Pearson, North Mankato,
Minnesota
1976-77: Frank J. Randazzo, East Meadow, New
York
1977-78: Oliver E. Meadows, Godley, Texas
1978-79: Billy O. Hightower, Grand Junction,
Colorado
1979-80: Paul L. Thompson, Baltimore, Maryland
(deceased 1993)
1980-81: Stan Pealer, Holts Summit, Missouri
1981-82: Sherman E. Roodzant, Santa Ana,
California
1982-83: Edward G. Galian, New York, New York
1983-84: Dennis A. Joyner, Apollo, Pennsylvania
1984-85: Chad Colley, Barling, Arkansas
1985-86: Albert H. Linden, Jr., Camp Springs,
Maryland
1986-87: Kenneth G. Musslemann, Huntington
Beach, California
1987-88: Gene A. Murphy, Sioux Falls, South
Dakota
1988-89: Billy E. Kirby, Clifton, Texas
1989-90: Vernon V. Cardosi, Saugus,
Massachusetts
1990-91: Joseph E. Andry, Westerville, Ohio
1991-92: Cleveland Jordan, Washington, D.C.
1992-93: Joseph C. Zengerle, Washington, D.C.
1993-94: Richard E. Marbes, Green Bay,
Wisconsin
1994-95: Donald A. Sioss, Miller Place, New
York
1995-96: Thomas A. McMasters III, Sterling
Heights, Michigan
PROCEEDINGS OF THE 75TH NATIONAL CONVENTION OF THE DISABLED AMERICAN
VETERANS HELD AT NEW ORLEANS, LA
July 27-August 1, 1996
JOINT OPENING SESSION
July 28, 1996
The Joint Opening Session of the Disabled American Veterans
and Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary convened in the Grand
Ballroom of the New Orleans Hilton Riverside, New Orleans,
Louisiana, Sunday afternoon, July 28, 1996, and was called to
order at 1 p.m. by Commander Thomas A. McMaster, III.
Commander Thomas A. McMaster III. I now call to order the
75th National Convention of the Disabled American Veterans.
Arthur H. Wilson, national adjutant, will read the call to
convention.
Adjutant Arthur H. Wilson. The Constitution and Bylaws of
the Disabled American Veterans state that the supreme
legislative powers of this organization shall be vested in an
annual national convention composed of national officers and
representatives of state departments and chapters.
In accordance with these directives, I, Arthur H. Wilson,
national adjutant, declare the 75th National Convention of the
Disabled American Veterans to be convened at New Orleans,
Louisiana 1 p.m., July 28th 1996.
Consideration and disposition of business brought before
this convention shall be conducted in accordance with the
National Constitution and Bylaws now in force and such rules as
this convention will adopt.
Commander McMasters. Present Colors.
[Presentation of Colors.]
Commander McMasters. Ladies and gentlemen, our National
Anthem.
[Singing of National Anthem.]
Commander McMasters. Ladies and gentlemen, please join me
in giving the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of our country.
[Pledge of Allegiance. Musical tribute to flag by Bob and
Becky Myers. Video presentation.]
Commander McMasters. Color Guard dismissed.
[Dismissal of Color Guard.]
Commander McMasters. I call on Reverend Oscar Wilkie, our
national chaplain, for the invocation.
Chaplain Oscar Wilkie. Comrades, will you join me in a
moment of silence as we begin this national convention, in
memory of all of those who perished on the TWA flight, the
tragic death that occurred in Atlanta in the bombing, and the
senseless killings around the world.
Join me in a moment of remembrance for those who could not
be here today, though they wish they could. They're somewhere,
in the hospitals, at home, recuperating from injuries perhaps
received in defense of this great country.
Join me, if you will, in remembrance of all those widows,
the widowers and the children of those who remain to make life
after the loved one has gone on the receive their just reward.
Join me for a moment in remembering all of those whose
names are inscribed indelibly upon each one of our hearts, even
though they may remain unspoken. May we have just a word of
silence.
[Moment of silence.]
Chaplain Wilkie. It is indeed good, Father, that we can
come and enjoy a moment of silence. Our lives are so lived with
noise, and it seems that the onrush of sound sometimes
obliterates. Your voice as it would speak to us in such times
as these. But we know that voice is there, and it shrieks
against the winds that may blow against us, and we hear that
word of encouragement.
How we thank You today for this great nation that You have
given to us, this nation that was carved out of a wilderness by
so many illustrious people across our history and by so many
whose aims never made the history book, and yet whose labor and
whose toil is still remembered; for the faith that enabled
those pioneers to go ahead and to push westward and upward,
even remembering the great dream called America and what
America stands for.
We do thank You for all of those, Father, who we remembered
this morning in the memorial service for their families and for
the leaders of this great nation.
O Lord, we thank You for our President and for our
Congress. Even though we may disagree sometime, yet we know
that they are performing the duties that You have called upon
them to perform, and we pray that You would imbue them with the
competency for Your Divine wisdom that the decisions that they
make will be just in the eyes of God and in the eyes of man.
And now we thank You for this convention, for these people
that have come to gather here to try to reason how that we can
better serve those whom we are called to serve. We thank You
for Your kindness and the good hand that has led us to this
hour.
We lift up our commanders, Commander Tom and Commander
Barbara, as they lead us in these deliberations. Also be with
them, Father, in such a fine and magnificent way that they'll
be able to lead with candor, and that they'll be able to help
us to foresee all of those things which You would have done in
these days.
Direct us, be near us, for we pray in Thy Great and Holy
Name. Amen.
Commander McMasters. Will you please be seated?
Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in thanking the Navy
Band of New Orleans. [Applause.] I guess I paused too long.
They're from the Naval Support Activities under the direction
of Chief Musician Joe Oakes. [Applause.]
I would also like to thank the members of the Department of
Massachusetts Color Guard for posting the Colors. [Applause.]
And special thanks to Bob and Becky Myers for their musical
tribute. [Applause.]
A successful national convention hinges on the dedication
of numerous men and women working cooperatively to make our
annual gathering a special experience for all who attend.
Commitment, experience, organization and limitless enthusiasm
are the key elements to successfully planning and carrying out
a tremendous national convention. Leading that work force is a
monumental task.
This year we are blessed with a national convention
chairman whose enthusiasm is contagious, whose organization is
on target all the way, whose commitment is second to none, and
whose experience as national convention chairman in 1991 was
just outstanding. That's why we welcomed the opportunity to
have him chair the 75th National Convention of the Disabled
American Veterans.
A life member of Central Louisiana Chapter Number 7 and a
DAV leader in every way, he has served as secretary of the
Hospital and Voluntary Services Committee, chairman of the
Constitution and Bylaws Committee and the Transportation
Committee, chairman of the Louisiana Veterans Memorial
Committee, commander of the DAV Department of Louisiana, 8th
District alternate National Executive Committee member, and DAV
Department of Louisiana judge advocate for the past three
years.
Please join me in welcoming a truly dedicated disabled
American veteran, our national convention chairman, Paul
Benoit. [Applause.]
Mr. Paul Benoit. Thank you. Mr. Commander, Madam Commander,
national officers of the Disabled American Veterans and the
Auxiliary: Welcome to New Orleans, Louisiana. [Applause.] On
behalf of Commander Bob Quattlebaum and the membership of the
Department of Louisiana, we sincerely wish that your stay here
will be productive, and that you will enjoy some of New Orleans
hospitality and tradition.
I would also like to add at this time a very sincere Cajun
bien merci, than you, to President Bill Clinton for the giving
of his time to come and speak to our organization and being
here in my great state of Louisiana. [Applause.]
First, I mentioned that we should be here to be productive
for our great organization. You would not think that we would
need an organization such as ours to defend and protect the
rights of our military personnel and their families who undergo
tragedies like the one that occurred on the 25th of June, 1996
in Saudi Arabia. Nineteen U. S. servicemen, personnel, died,
and 300 were injured. But we, the people here today, know how
times go by and how some people forget.
I also know of many members that would love to be here
today but are unable, due to their physical disability. As we
have done in the past and will do in the future, those of us in
New Orleans, Louisiana will do what we have to do to aid and
assist worthy wartime disabled veterans, their widows, their
orphans and their dependents. After all, we are the Disabled
American Veterans organization doing what we do best.
[Applause.]
The second reason you are here, hopefully, is to enjoy New
Orleans hospitality and tradition. First, you must get the
Cajun attitude. After the work is done, laissez les bon temps
roullez, let the good times roll. [Applause.]
Good times it can be, with good food, good music, riverboat
ride, casino and French Quarter strolling.
Another thing we like here is Mardi Gras. We can't wait to
have Mardi Gras here, to dress in costumes, throw beads and
enjoy life. Mardi Gras means Fat Tuesday. It occurs the Tuesday
prior to Ash Wednesday in February.
Now, some of you might not know that Art Wilson was once a
national service officer in New Orleans, and he enjoys Mardi
Gras. In fact, he enjoys Mardi Gras so much that he told us we
couldn't wait till Tuesday, so we're going to have a Mardi Gras
party Monday night. [Applause.]
So on Monday night, please be our guest for Mardi Gras in
July. The band will provide all types of Louisiana music, Mardi
Gras, blues, Cajun and swamp pop. The delegation will dress in
costume, and we have plenty of beads for all.
As you walk around the hotel this week, you will notice
some of our delegation wearing a green, orange or gold mask on
their delegate's badge. The Louisiana delegation is using this
method to identify themselves for all our out-of-state
visitors. Should you have any questions or concerns, look
around for these people, and maybe we can help.
However, don't ask us about how to win at the casino
because we'll ask you the same thing. [Laughter.]
One last note. My wife made me wear this tie as a reminder
to leave some wise words with all of you. For people who can't
see the tie, it has a large bottle of Tabasco sauce and an
alligator. The wise word is this: Have a hot time in Louisiana,
but beware of the gators on Bourbon Street.
Thank you so much. [Applause.]
[Whereupon, Senior Vice-Commander Gregory C. Reed assumed
the chair.]
Senior Vice-Commander Gregory C. Reed. Each year, it's the
pleasure of the national senior vice-commander to introduce the
national commander for the purpose of presenting his report to
the convention. This year, it is truly my honor to introduce a
man who embodies the finest traits of the DAV.
After his election to national commander, he embraced the
inspiring mission of the DAV to build better lives for all of
our nation's disabled veterans and their families. This was the
task of his office, and he diligently dedicated himself to that
mission.
Through his capable leadership, wise counsel and abundant
compassion, the DAV has grown stronger as an organization. Yes,
we are indeed fortunate to have a leader like National
Commander Thomas A. McMasters III.
A Michigan native, Tom is a combat-disabled Vietnam
veteran. He joined the U.S. Army in 1969 and served with the
14th Brigade's ``Golden Dragons,'' and the 10th Cavalry's
``Buffalo Soldiers.'' Tom was wounded while serving with the
14th Infantry Division in Vietnam. During a combat mission in
the Central Highlands, while making his way through tall
elephant grass, he stepped into a booby trap and was stabbed in
the right leg by a punji stake.
Following his discharge in 1971, Tom attended Macomb County
Community College, graduating with a degree in marketing in
1974. A successful entrepreneur, he operates a small business
near Sterling Heights, Michigan.
Tom is a life member of DAV Chapter Number 129 in Utica,
Michigan. Since he joined the DAV in 1972, he has held nearly
every elected office in his chapter and department, including
department commander in 1988. On the national level, he was
elected 3rd junior vice-commander, 1st junior vice-commander
and senior vice-commander before being elected our national
commander in Las Vegas, Nevada, last year.
It has also been my pleasure to know the McMasters family.
Tom's wife, Sandi, is a joy to know, as well as his children,
Thomas IV, Krysten and Lauren.
I could spend many hours recounting all that is fine and
honorable about Tom, but time is very short today. So let me
leave you with this: Character and quality make the DAV a great
organization. These same traits make Tom McMasters an exemplary
DAV national commander. He is a warm and caring human being,
and it has been my pleasure to serve with him.
I am honored today to ask everyone to please join me in
welcoming a friend to all disabled veterans and their families,
our friend, DAV National Commander Tom McMasters. [Rising
applause.]
Commander McMasters. Thank you, Greg, for those very kind
words of introduction, and thank you for the support that you
and all of the other line officers have given me over the past
year. My thanks as well to Auxiliary Commander Barb Hicks, the
Auxiliary's line officers, National Adjutants Art Wilson and
Maria Tedrow, their staffs at our headquarters facilities in
Cincinnati, Washington and across the nation. My thanks to our
chapter and department leaders, our HSCs, and most important of
all, our DAV and Auxiliary members and our volunteers.
You've given me a great year, a really tremendous year, an
incredible adventure, and I will never forget everything you've
meant to me as we've traveled through this year together. Thank
you. [Applause.]
Douglas MacArthur said, ``In war, you win or lose, live or
die, and the difference is just an eyelash.'' I'm grateful that
I lived, I truly am. Maybe that's why I feel so strongly about
those who died in my war, the war in Vietnam, or the wars that
came before my time, the World Wars, Korea, or in all the
military actions that came after my years in service, not only
the Gulf War, but all the fire Americans have faced from Beirut
to Bosnia.
Often I wonder, how do I keep faith with all those brave
men and women who served and died? What can I do as one who was
fortunate to come home to family and friends, even if wounded
in body and soul? The answer is always the same, the great
spiritual truth that lies at the heart of the DAV: We best
honor by serving the living. This is what defines the DAV.
I happened to pick up some recruiting material from another
veterans' organization and noticed that veterans' legislation
was the last topic mentioned in the organization's recruiters'
kit and the second-to-the-last thing mentioned in their
membership recruiting brochure. I felt a little disconcerted, a
little disappointed, but then I realized that other
organizations are free to define their mission any way it
wishes. They aren't required to mirror the DAV. It's obvious
the veterans' organization whose printed material I picked up
sees itself as a vehicle through which veterans can serve their
community in general, and that's okay.
However, this situation points out how much we need the DAV
with its tightly focused mission, zeroing in on service to and
representation of America's disabled veterans and their
families. Our members and our volunteers are out there day
after day helping their fellow veterans as their first
priority. Our NSOs are representing those veterans as
individuals before the VA as their first priority. Our
Washington staff represents us before the government as their
first priority.
In this, we are different from other veterans' groups, and
in this we excel, providing the finest service and
representation available to disabled veterans from any source
anywhere in America. [Applause.]
We saw the results of DAV excellence during the past year.
The thrill of victory will always run down my spine when I
remember the way we absolutely crushed a congressional attempt
to deny benefits to thousands of incompetent veterans. Not only
that, we fended off a great deal of damage to veterans'
programs in many other areas as well. And we may yet get a
decent fiscal year 1997 budget for veterans out of Congress and
across the desk of the President.
Dave Gorman, our executive director of the Washington
Headquarters, will cover the highlights in his report tomorrow.
I just want to say at this juncture that I'm proud of the
DAV. We've done some great work over the past 12 months, and
it's been a joy to see. But we still have our problems, don't
we? And if others don't have veterans' legislation right up
there at the top of their agenda, we in the DAV must remain
particularly vigilant.
An example of why I say this came up just a couple of weeks
ago, as we prepared to come to this convention, an example I
still find difficult to fathom. The rumor was out, and it had
some pretty credible sources, that a group of United States
senators were thinking of introducing legislation based on some
ideas that surfaced in a computer game. The game was called
``Reinventing America,'' and it was played on the Internet.
The folks who played the game came up with some stellar
ideas, like legalizing drugs, killing Social Security, means
testing Medicare. Some other ideas, much closer to home for us
in the DAV, include abolishing the VA network of hospitals,
privatizing the facilities where feasible and closing them
where not feasible, means testing veterans' benefits and
selling off the VA benefits program to the insurance industry.
A news release on the results of this childish exercise
boldly proclaimed that the American people were telling
Congress how to balance the budget. The American people my
foot! [Applause.] This was the opinion of a few yuppies,
sipping Scotch in their up-scale suburban dens, bored with
``Seneca Hedgehog'' and with nothing better to do than play
with their computers. [Applause.]
We in the DAV know how the American people feel. In a
recent survey cited in DAV Magazine, they stated their mind
quite clearly. Ninety-six percent say the government should
continue providing disability and death benefits. Eighty-eight
percent want the government to continue providing health care
to veterans, and the only needed changes they mentioned were
improvement in the care provided.
Three-fourths of them say veteran's program funding should
be increased to keep pace with inflation, and they flatly
reject cutting those programs in order to balance the budget.
That's how the American people feel about our nation's
obligations to its veterans. [Applause.]
And any legislator who wants to set public policy by
computer games better pay attention. Our elected officials were
sent to Washington by a nation of people who love their
veterans, who want their veterans treated with dignity and
respect. No congressman or senator was sent to Capitol Hill to
walk on the men and women who fought America's wars and spit on
the sacrifices they made. [Applause.]
That brings me back to something I've been saying all year.
When we're dealing with our elected officials, our role is to
educate, educate, educate. Now, let me repeat that. When we're
dealing with our congressmen and our senators, our job is to
educate, educate, educate. [Applause.]
Public policy by computer games. We do live in a mixed-up
world, don't we? A world where its's okay for an art museum to
force visitors to walk on the American flag, and it's okay to
write off the nation's obligation to its veterans as if that
were nothing but a bad debt.
As I think about the world we live in, it makes me realize
once again the obligation we in the DAV have to the men and
women who are serving in our armed forces today. Not too long
ago, I read a newspaper article about a man and a woman who
were both in the Reserves and both called up for active duty at
the same time. They went. Of course they went. These were young
people who believe in America, in duty and in honor, some think
unusual traits in today's society.
But while they were gone, doing their country's bidding,
their financial situation got very tight, making it tough to
meet their mortgage payments. They had to ask Grandma to take
care of the kids. The list of their sacrifices, what they paid
out personally to do what they saw as their patriotic duty went
on and on.
We owe these two people our allegiance. We owe this good
and brave couple our loyalty. We owe them the benefit of our
services when they come home from duty. And we owe them
representation of their interests before their government. What
I'm trying to say is this: There will be a demand for DAV
service long into the future. We must build the foundation of
that service today.
National Adjutant Art Wilson will talk to you tomorrow
about one very important way in which the DAV is working to
build a strong network of chapter and department services. I
won't get into details right now. But I will take this
opportunity to thank the Department of Colorado and the DAV
National Service Foundation for their leadership and their
foresight.
Another way in which we need to look toward the future is
in the generational transition our organization faces today.
Throughout my term in office, I have stressed the need for my
generation, those who served in the years of Vietnam, to get
more deeply involved in their chapters. Over and over again,
I've emphasized the need to activate those who served and
became disabled during the Gulf War and other recent times of
armed conflict.
That message was in my acceptance speech last summer when I
was elected national commander. And I want to end my term with
the same plea to our younger members. Can we get these younger
veterans to take a greater role? I think we can. One Midwestern
chapter elected a disabled Persian Gulf veteran as its
commander during the past year. He got on the phone and started
calling other members who were disabled in the post-Vietnam
years, and there were two Gulf War veterans at the next
meeting. Those two split the phone list, and they got a third
post-Vietnam veteran to come to the following meeting.
Things like this are happening in some of your chapters
where there are people willing to do the work. For example, my
own chapter has had a Persian Gulf veteran as its chaplain. It
goes to show, when a chapter is willing to show the interest in
its members, its members are showing a greater interest in the
DAV. Let's keep that going. [Applause.]
You can bet the national organization is moving heavily in
that direction. What a pleasure it is to see all the younger
veterans coming out of our NSO Training Academy in Denver. I
congratulate Art Wilson and his staff for their foresight and
their keen commitment to building the future leadership of the
DAV.
In closing, I want to thank all of you for giving me this
opportunity to serve you. This year has marked my life forever,
and I hope you feel that my service to you has been worthy.
You're the best people in the world. [Applause.] You're the
best people in the world. You're the volunteers; you're the
people who make the DAV work, and I'm so proud of you and the
DAV. [Rising applause.]
Senior Vice-Commander Reed. I need to entertain a motion to
accept the commander's report.
[Motion made from the floor.]
Senior Vice-Commander Reed. Do I have a second on the
motion?
[Motion seconded from the floor.]
Senior Vice-Commander Reed. You've heard it. All those in
favor, say Aye. Motion carried.
[Whereupon, Commander McMasters resumed the chair.]
Commander McMasters. Ladies and gentlemen, it gives me
great pleasure to introduce our next very special guest. Bill
Clinton was sworn in as the 42nd President of the United States
on January 20th, 1993.
Before being elected to the presidency, he served as
governor of Arkansas for five terms, holding that position for
longer than all but one of his predecessors. He also served as
chairman of the Democratic Commission in 1990-91, the National
Governors Association in 1987, the Education Commission of the
States in 1986-87, and the Lower Mississippi Delta Development
Commission in 1989-90.
A fifth-generation Arkansan, President Clinton was born in
Hope, Arkansas on August 19th, 1946. He received a bachelor's
degree from Georgetown University in 1968 and a law degree from
Yale University in 1973.
President Clinton began his political career in 1974 with
an unsuccessful campaign for Congress. Two years later, he was
elected Attorney General of Arkansas, a post he held for a
single term before being elected Governor in 1978. He lost a
reelection bid in 1980, but was returned to office in 1982 and
served until his election to the presidency in 1992.
The President is married to Hillary Rodham Clinton, and
they have a teenage daughter, Chelsea. [Applause] The President
is an avid reader, enjoys golf and jogging, and plays the
saxophone. [Applause.]
And now, ladies and gentlemen, it is indeed a great honor
and a privilege to present the Honorable Bill Clinton,
President of the United States. [Rising applause.]
President William J. Clinton. Thank you. Thank you very
much. Thank you. Thank you very much. Thank you for the
exuberant welcome. I want to thank the ladies of the Auxiliary
for leading the applause for Hillary. That was a nice thing to
do. [Applause.] Thank you very much. That was a very nice
thing.
I want to thank Commander McMasters for that introduction.
It's been so long, I'd forgotten I'd done some of those things.
[Laughter.] And he mentioned that I was a saxophone player. I
think we have a Navy Band over there. I want to thank the Navy
Band. Thank you for being here and for playing. [Applause.]
I'll always laugh any time someone says I'm a saxophone
player now because a couple of weeks ago, Colonel John
Bourgeious, the commander of the United States Marine Band, the
President's own, retired as one of the longest serving
conductors of the Marine Band.
And he did a television interview on national television in
which he asked about my saxophone playing, and having sworn an
oath to truth, he said that I was adequate. [Laughter.] And
painfully I admit that that is about all he could say. And
that's why I'm here today in this position rather than playing
for you in your entertainment. [Laughter.]
I'm delighted to be here with Commander McMasters; with
your senior vice-commander, Gregory Reed; Barbara Hicks, your
Auxiliary national commander; Art Wilson, your national
adjutant; the other officers of your distinguished
organization, and with all of you.
I'm glad to be joined today by Secretary Jesse Brown.
[Applause.] You know, the first time I realized that you would
cheer like that--I love to kid Jesse, and I was kidding him on
the way in, and I said, ``You think they give that kind of
reaction because they love you so much or because they're glad
I took you off of their hands?'' [Laughter.] I think it's the
former, and I think you should.
I'm also delighted to be joined today by a number of state
officials from the State of Louisiana, and by Congressman Bill
Jefferson and Congressman Cleo Fields. I thank them for coming.
[Applause.]
Ladies and gentlemen, as veterans who have given so much to
defend our country, you know what it is personally to face an
enemy. Today we have an enemy it is difficult to face, because
the enemy is so often hidden, killing at random, surfacing only
to perform cowardly acts. Their aim is to demoralize us as a
people and to spread fear into everyday life. We must not let
them do that. As Americans, we can and must join together to
defeat terrorism wherever it strikes and whoever practices it.
[Applause.]
We all are outraged by what happened in the Centennial
Olympic Park in Atlanta. And we all admire the athletes, the
thousands of volunteers, the tens of thousands of fans who made
a strong statement to the world yesterday when they showed up
and carried on the Olympics, saying that they would not be
intimidated by terrorism, and that no terrorist could kill the
Olympic spirit. [Applause.]
What we saw yesterday was a symbol of an emerging consensus
among all responsible nations and freedom-loving people
everywhere that we have to work closely together to stop the
spread of terrorism. We know from the Tokyo Subway to the
streets of Tel Aviv, to the Khobar Towers in Saudi Arabia where
we lost 19 of our fine Air Force personnel, that terrorism is a
problem that knows no boundaries.
We have learned here so painfully in America, from the
World Trade Center to Oklahoma City, that attacks from
terrorists can be homegrown or can be generated in other lands.
We know that nations are beginning to understand that there is
no place that is safe when any place is vulnerable to
terrorists.
Not very long ago after the upsurge of terrorist attacks in
Israel, we had a remarkable meeting of 29 nations at Sharm el-
Sheikh in Egypt where, for the first time, 13 Arab states
condemned terrorism in Israel. It was the beginning of wisdom,
because, as the Saudis have seen, there is no nation which can
hide from terrorism unless we all recognize that the rules of
civilized people do not permit it to be practices.
The recent meeting of the G-7 nations in France produced a
significant increase in international measures to cooperate
against terrorism. And this week, following up on that, we will
have a very important conference in Paris, France, involving
those nations with high-level representatives to deal with the
questions that terrorism presents us.
Terrorists are often supported by states. And states that
sponsor or permit terrorism, including Iraq, Iran, Libya and
Sudan, and any others, must face strong sanctions. We all have
to say we cannot live with this; it is wrong. People must seek
to resolve their differences by ways other than killing
innocent civilians. [Applause.]
This year I signed into law an anti-terrorism act which
made terrorism a federal offense, expanded the role of the FBI
in solving these crimes, and imposed the death penalty for
terrorism. As strong as the bill was, it did not give our law
enforcement officials some of the powerful tools I had
recommended, because they wanted and needed them, including
increased wiretap authority for terrorists who are moving from
place to place. Where they are flexible, so must we be. And
chemical markets, often called taggets, for the most common
explosives, black and smokeless powder, so that we can track
down those who make bombs that kill innocent people.
This morning I was very encouraged to hear the Speaker of
the House, Mr. Gingrich, express a willingness to consider
these tougher measures. I have asked the Speaker; Majority
Leader, Senator Trent Lott; the leaders of the Democratic
minority, Senator Daschle and Mr. Gephardt; and the FBI
director, Louis Freeh, to come to the White House tomorrow to
help to agree on a package that will provide these additional
protections against terrorism and any other measures we need to
take to increase the protection of the American people.
[Applause.]
We will continue to do whatever is necessary to give law
enforcement the tools they need to find terrorists before they
strike and to bring them swiftly to justice when they do. This
week I announced new measures aimed at increasing airport
security, increasing baggage searches and screening, to tighten
passenger checks, to plan the deployment of the latest x-ray
technologies.
I said then and I will say again, I am well aware that
these new security measures will increase inconvenience and may
even carry a modest increased cost to the air-traveling public.
But this inconvenience is a small price to pay for better peace
of mind when our loved ones board a plane. These measures went
into effect immediately.
And so, my fellow Americans, we have opened up three fronts
against terrorism. We're increasing international efforts to
ensure that terrorists will have no place to plan or hide their
operations. We're making use of expanded anti-terrorism powers
at home, including the death penalty. And we are tightening
airport security. We will continue to expand our efforts on all
three fronts against terrorism.
I want to remind you that we have had some results. We have
seen a record number of terrorists captured and convicted. We
have thwarted a number of planned terrorist attacks, including
a serious one against the United Nations and one against the
United States airlines flying out of the West Coast over the
Pacific. We are keeping the heat on terrorist organizations and
those who would support them.
But I would remind you that every death is one death too
many. As we have seen now over many, many years, from the
struggles of our allies, as well as from those we have faced
recently, that this is a long, hard fight. But if we work
together, this is challenge we can and will meet. It may well
be the most significant security challenge of the 21st century
to the people of the United States and to civilized people
everywhere. And the veterans of the United States, I know, will
support our country being as strong and tough and smart and
steadfast as it takes to get the job done. [Applause.]
Now, let me continue by saying to you that when I ran for
President, I promised the veterans of America I would appoint a
true advocate as Secretary of Veterans Affairs. I found that
person among your ranks. Jesse Brown honed his skills while
serving as executive director of the DAV. He and his deputy,
Hershel Gober, who is also here with me today, I believe, make
up one of the finest leadership teams in the entire Federal
Government. [Applause.]
I can tell you this: Not only in public but in private, in
every meeting on any subject, they are consistently committed
to a better life for all veterans. And I thank them for their
service. [Applause.]
I'm also honored to join you in celebrating three-quarters
of a century of service to your country. You are the best
representatives of what I'd like to talk about today: the duty
we owe to our veterans, the duty we owe to each other and to
our children, the duty we owe to the rest of the world and to
our future. We owe a duty to all of you, of course, not only
for your bravery and sacrifice, but for all you continue to do
for each other, your families and our country.
Last year we celebrated the 50th anniversary of World War
II. Many of you fought in that great struggle and put your
lives on the line for freedom. Your country owes you a debt of
gratitude we can never repay. Any I can honestly say one of the
most humbling honors of my life was representing the United
States at those ceremonies in 1994 and 1995.
But I want to say again to you, to every American who
served in World War II, including the Republican candidate for
President, Senator Bob Dole: Thank you for your service, thank
you for your sacrifice, thank you for your courage. We're still
around because of you. [Applause.]
And to all who have served since, in Korea and Vietnam, in
the Persian Gulf, in Bosnia, in peacetime as well as wartime.
America thanks you, too, and so do freedom-loving people all
around the world.
Our tradition of service, of course, extends beyond the
battlefield. This is also the 50th anniversary of the VA
Voluntary Service Programs' involvement of the DAV. Last year
you donated more volunteer hours at VA hospitals around the
country than any other organization. [Applause.]
I want to congratulate your Volunteers of the Year, whom I
had the privilege to meet just a moment ago, Tillman Rutledge
and Dorothy Marie Waters. They are great examples of what you
stand for. Thank you. Thank you. [Applause.]
You have done your duty to America, and America must do its
duty to you. Secretary Brown and I recognize a simple truth:
When men and women leave the service, we must not leave them.
In keeping our veterans' commitments, our commitments to our
veterans, to help them make the most of their own lives does
not only help veterans and their families, it's made America a
better and stronger place.
For education to employment, from buying a home to getting
quality medical care, our veterans deserve our nation's
support, and when we give it, our nation is better off. For the
past three and a half years, that is what we have done.
Even as we cut government spending to reduce the deficit
and move toward a balanced budget, I have asked for a billion-
dollar increase in funding for the VA, more than half for
medical care and discretionary programs, including funds for a
new hospital and nursing home in Brevard County, Florida and a
replacement hospital at Travis Air Force Base in California.
[Applause.]
We are committed to keeping the VA health care system
strong into the 21st century, and we know that requires us to
carry out a dramatic restructuring that will improve the
quality of care and make our hospitals more patient-centered
and less bureaucratic. Last year I sent to Congress legislation
that will allow us to simplify the complex and arcane
eligibility rules and improve access to care at VA hospitals.
[Applause.] I am pleased that Congress is beginning to act on
this important proposal, and I hope they will get a bill to me
this year.
Very soon we will submit legislation for a pilot project to
allow Medicare-eligible veterans to obtain treatment at a VA
facility and to have the costs reimbursed by Medicare.
[Applause.]
I also want to make special mention of the extraordinary
care that is provided by our veterans facilities to people with
spinal cord injuries, and my commitment to continue the work
and research and care in this important area. Recently, after a
visit with Christopher Reeve, I was pleased to announce that we
are increasing our research commitment $10 million a year in
this year.
And I hope all of you noticed just a few days ago that we
finally are beginning to show some incredible results, where
nerve transplants from the ribs to the spinal cord of
laboratory animals have succeeded in giving laboratory animals
some mobility in their limbs again. We can do better on this,
and we have to keep going until we have some real success.
[Applause.]
We have also reached out to veterans service organizations,
appointing veterans as delegates to the White House Conference
on Aging and the Presidential Delegation to Vietnam. We
established the first ever inter-agency veterans policy groups
to coordinate and spur progress on issues of concern to
veterans and military organizations.
One such issue for more than two decades has been the
suffering of our nation's Vietnam veterans who were exposed to
Agent Orange. [Applause.] In May, I announced that Vietnam
veterans with prostate cancer and peripheral neuropathy are
entitled to disability payments based on their exposure to
Agent Orange. Just this week I sent to Congress legislation to
provide an appropriate remedy for children of Vietnam veterans
who suffer from spina bifida. [Applause.]
We have also responded aggressively to Persian Gulf
illnesses. [Applause.] As the First Lady was traveling around
the country talking about health care to people all over
America, she kept coming back to the White House with stories
of people who had served in the Persian Gulf conflict who had
difficulties that were otherwise inexplicable.
She got very involved, even emotionally involved, with some
of the families, and she kept hammering on me that there had to
be an explanation for this, and there was no other conceivable
explanation for some of these instances of difficulties.
She encouraged me to appoint a Presidential Advisory
Committee on Gulf War veterans illnesses. I did that and
charged them to leave no stone unturned in finding the cause of
the illnesses and improving care available to Persian Gulf
veterans. Meanwhile, we have made available for the first time
ever compensation to the victims of undiagnosed illnesses who
served in the Gulf War. [Applause.] I think they did the right
thing there.
One other area of endeavor is especially important to me,
improving the contributions of all of our veterans to the
maintenance of their own lives and their families and our
communities. Today, as we celebrate the sixth anniversary of
the Americans with Disabilities Act, I want to reiterate a
pledge I made in 1992. Our disability policy should be based as
a nation on three simple principles: inclusion, independence
and empowerment. [Applause.]
I know how hard you fought, along with others in the
disability community, for the passage of this important
legislation. We've made vigorous laws protecting all people
with disabilities a top priority. We'll continue to do so until
all the barriers come down. Consistent with that commitment, my
budget for 1997 proposes an increase in the resources available
to enforce the Americans With Disabilities Act.
One of the main objectives of the act is to improve
employment possibilities for people with disabilities.
Unemployment among disabled veterans in particular is still too
high. I am pleased that Ron Drach, DAV's employment director,
is serving as vice-chair of the President's Committee on
Employment of People With Disabilities. I thank him for his
hard work to turn those employment numbers around. And we
should all be grateful that he is on the job. [Applause.]
Beyond the duty we owe to our veterans, there are certain
duties we all owe to each other and to our country if our
children are to live in a 21st century that is full of peace
and possibility. First, we have to give the American dream of
opportunity to everyone who is willing to work for it. That
means we have to have an economy that is strong and growing,
that produces good jobs with growing incomes.
When I became President, I was worried about the drift in
our economy and the increasing divisions within it. We've put
in place an aggressive strategy: To reduce the deficit, because
that would get interest rates down and spur private investment,
and remove a burden from future generations; to increase trade
so that we could sell more American products and services
around the world in a global economy; and to invest in our
people and their potential so that everyone could participate
in this global economy in a positive way over the long run.
We invested in education, in how to protect the environment
while growing the economy, in transportation, in research and
technology, in defense conversion to help those communities
that had helped us to win the Cold War so that they wouldn't be
left out in the cold. We even lowered the average closing cost
for first-time home buyers by a thousand dollars so young
families could start getting in homes again instead of just
having a distant dream. [Applause.]
It's been a remarkable turnaround in these last three and a
half years. The deficit was lowered from $290 billion a year
when I became President. It will be $117 billion this year, a
60 percent reduction. It's the first time since John Tyler was
President in the 1840s that an administration has reduced the
deficit four years in a row. And I'm proud of that. [Applause.]
I have to tell you, by the way, that my staff is pleading
with me to stop using that statistic because John Tyler was not
reelected. [Laughter.] But still it sounds great, because it's
true and it's important.
Our economy has produced ten million new jobs, 3.7 million
new home owners, eight million home owners who've refinanced
their mortgages at lower interest rates. Home ownership is at a
15-year high. Exports are at a record. For three years in a
row, we've had a record number of new small businesses formed
in America. And for the first time in a decade, incomes are
actually going up for average American working people again.
This is important. It matters. [Applause.]
Veterans' employment. Veterans' unemployment has dropped by
nearly a third from 7.2 percent to 4.9 percent in January of
1996. Six million veterans have received training and job
search assistance through the Department of Labor in the last
three and a half years. Two million now have jobs. We are
clearly moving in the right direction.
We have other responsibilities as well. I want to just
mention a couple. One is heavily on my mind at this moment. We
have a responsibility to make our streets and our schools and
our neighborhoods safer. The United States cannot tolerate the
rates of crime and violence which have come to be almost
commonplace in our country in the last several years. We have
to intensify our efforts to reduce crime.
The deaths of two police officers within a 24-hour period
right here in New Orleans last week painfully drove that point
home to everyone who knew about them. I had the opportunity to
meet with their families just before coming in here, and I want
to personally offer my condolences to the families of Officers
Joey Thomas and Chris McCormick, who died while protecting the
citizens of this city. They, too, were patriots who paid the
ultimate price. And I know you join me in praying for their
families. [Applause.]
In the past three and a half years, we have tried to change
the nation's approach to crime from rhetoric to action. We've
had a clear strategy: Look at what works and make it happen
everywhere. When I became President, to be perfectly frank,
even though we had a high crime rate, there were cities all
over the country that had already begun to lower their crime
rate. And I went to those places and asked them how they were
doing it.
It was obvious to me what was going on. They were putting
more police on the street, out from behind the cars, out from
behind the desk, walking the streets, getting to know kids,
getting to know neighbors, working with them, preventing crime
as well as catching criminals more quickly.
I asked them what they needed, and they told me, and that
became the Crime Bill that we passed in 1994: 100,000 police on
the street, a ban on assault weapons, tougher punishment for
people who are serious criminals, and prevention programs to
help kids stay out of crime in the first place. We also passed
the Brady Bill that kept 60,000 felons, fugitives and stalkers
from buying handguns, and there wasn't a single hunter that
lost his or her hunting weapons. So we did the right thing, and
for four years in a row, crime has been coming down in the
United States. We can be proud of that. [Applause.]
But it is not enough. We're now going around the country
trying to explain to communities how they can, without fear of
legal challenge, institute curfew policies, as New Orleans has,
for juveniles in a way that has dramatically lowered the
juvenile crime rate here, and in a positive way has helped a
lot of juveniles to sort through their own problems and get
back on the right track in life.
School uniform policies and tough truancy policies, like so
many California communities I've seen have implemented in a way
that has increased learning in the schools and diminished crime
beyond the school yard. There are more things we can do in this
way and we must all continue to do it. [Applause.]
We have a responsibility to reform the welfare system. I'm
sure you've all seen the big debate about welfare in
Washington. Let me just say that we have been working for three
and a half years on that through a provision of existing law
which allows the President to say to any state in the country
that presents a plan to move people from welfare to work and to
require them to move from welfare to work, you can get around
all the federal rules and regulations if you're doing that.
But let me ask you as you see this debate unfold in the
next few days, to think about your own family and ask yourself,
well, what do I really want to change in the welfare system?
And I think to answer the question, you have to say, what do I
want for poor people in America? How would I like for them to
be able to live?
And I think what we want for them is what we want for
middle-class families and, indeed, for upper-income families in
America. We want people to have strong families and successful
work lives. We want them to succeed when they go to work and
when they're working at raising their children. And we don't
want them to have to choose; we want them to do both. And
that's exactly what we want other families in America to do as
well: Success at home and success at work. And if we have a
system that undermines either one, America is weaker because of
it.
So we have worked hard. We've got 75 percent of everybody
on welfare now under welfare-to-work experiments in a way that
enables them to continue to support their children when they
leave the welfare rolls and go onto the work rolls. And that's
what we ought to want for every American. There are 1.3 million
fewer people on welfare today than there were the day I became
President. This will work. We can move people from welfare to
work if we do it in the right way. [Applause.]
The other big part of this is that people who owe it ought
to pay their child support. [Applause.] When I became
President, we were collecting $8 billion a year in child year.
Now we're collecting 11 billion, a 40 percent increase. But you
need to know that if every person in this country who owes
support for their own children, is legally obligated to pay it
and is financially able to pay it, if they paid it all
tomorrow, tomorrow morning there would be 800,000 fewer women
and children on welfare in the Untied States. So that's a big
part of this and a big part of why we need national legislation
to reform the welfare laws. [Applause.]
So we're working hard with the Congress to try to get a
welfare reform bill out so we can cover all the states, all the
people and have even tougher child support enforcement,
especially for the cases across state lines. But remember, when
you hear this debate and you hear people propose certain
things, ask yourself, what do I want for those families? And
don't I want for them the same thing I want for the families in
my neighborhood and the families of America, success at home
and success at work? And I think if we think about it that way,
we'll make the right decisions.
Finally, let me say we have a responsibility to finish the
work of balancing the budget, but to do it in a way that is
consistent with our values and our long-term interests, which
is, in my view, taking care of the health care needs of
seniors, people with disabilities, poor children, making sure
that we continue to invest in education and protecting the
environment and other things that are critical to our future,
making sure we do not increase the burdens on the hardest
pressed working families. But we can do that, and I am
committed to it.
And lastly, we have a responsibility to maintain the
national defense and to continue to be the world's strongest
force for peace and freedom. [Applause.]
As we enter the--near the end of the most successful draw-
down in our history, our military readiness has never been
higher, we continue to have the best equipped, the best
trained, the best prepared military in the world. And we must
always have that. Whether we're standing down aggression in the
Persian Gulf, restoring democracy in Haiti, safeguarding the
peace in Bosnia, saving lives in Rwanda, working with NATO and
our new allies from the former communist bloc in the
Partnership for Peace, our service men and women have proven
their abilities time and time again in the last three and a
half years.
Our funding and support for them must not falter, first for
military technology to meet any new challenges now or in the
future, and, even more important, to support the men and women
in uniform, for they are the most precious resource in our
military arsenal, and we have to be there for them. [Applause.]
Last year we set aside funds to ensure that military
personnel received the highest pay raise allowed by law through
the end of the century. We are committed to maintain and
improve the quality of life for service members and their
families around the globe, including better housing, community
support, youth programs and child care. They, too, have a right
to know that if they're succeeding for us at their work, their
homes are going to be successful, and their children and their
spouses are going to be taken care of. And that is a very, very
important part of defense spending in this world. [Applause.]
There are a lot of things that we have to do for the
future. We're working in Washington now to raise the minimum
wage; to pass the Kassebaum-Kennedy bill which will say you
don't lose your health insurance if you change jobs or someone
in your family gets sick. We're working hard on welfare reform.
I hope that we can strengthen the Family and Medical Leave
Law, which has permitted 12 million working Americans to take
some time off when they've had a baby born or sick parent
without losing their jobs. And I'd like to see more done so
that people could go to regular doctor's appointments with
their parents or their kids, or got to a parent-teacher
conference at school without losing their jobs. We've got to
make it possible for working parents to succeed at work at home
with their children and with their parents. [Applause.]
I want to make a college education available to every
person in this country who's willing to work for it. I think we
ought to--the most important tax cut we could pass in America
today is to give people a deduction for the cost of college
education, their own or their kids. [Applause.] And I would
like to see, I would very much like to see us make the two
years of education after high school that most Americans now
get in community college, I want that to become just as
universal in the next couple of years as a high school
education is today. So I propose a tax credit for the cost of
community college for the next two years after high school.
[Applause.] That'd be a good thing to do.
And finally, let me just mention this last duty. We have a
duty to respect our differences and to learn to bridge the gaps
between us. If you look around the world today, what's fueling
a lot of this terrorism? What caused all the slaughter in
Burundi and Rwanda? Why did people who lived for decades in
peace in Bosnia all of a sudden become the sort of nagging
agony of the entire world, slaughtering each other with
reckless abandon after having lived in peace together for
decades, neighbor against neighbor, killing each other?
Why can't we fix what's gone wrong in the Middle East? Why
did Northern Ireland start violence again after 15 months of
peace when they've got the lowest unemployment rate in 15
years? And when Hillary and I went there, we were mobbed by
Catholic and Irish young people alike saying, ``We love peace.
We don't want to go back to war.'' What happened?
Because throughout history there has been an atrocious
tendency among human beings to give in to racial, ethnic,
religious and tribal hatred. [Applause.] And as your generation
helped to ensure victory for us in the Cold War, so that
billions of people every day didn't have to get up wondering
about whether someone was going to drop a bomb on them from the
communist or the noncommunist world, depending on what side of
that Cold War they lived on, and people were able to relax, too
many have fallen back into the old patterns of racial,
religious, ethnic and tribal hatreds.
Why do people hate other people who are different from
them? Either because they think they won't permit them to live
as they want to live or, more likely, they really need somebody
to look down on.
Your know, I guess nobody has a perfect family, but I'll go
to my grave being grateful for my mother telling me, ``Don't
your ever, don't you ever feel better because of somebody
else's misfortune. You should feel better because of what you
are and what you do. Don't ever think you've got to put
somebody else down because of that.'' [Applause.]
But all over the world there are people that will get up
tomorrow morning and start out the new week defining themselves
in terms of who they can hate, who they can look down on, who
they can hurt. And it is a cancer of the modern world. We fight
it on its most flagrant basis when we stand against terrorism.
But we have to also recommit ourselves to purging every vestige
of it in the United States.
The United States military has done a better job than any
other organization in our society, I believe, in opening up
opportunities for people based on merit: 250,000 new roles for
women in the last three and a half years in the military. I'm
proud of that. [Applause.]
We not only have in General Powell an African American who
became Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, we have a record number of
officers now reaching the ``general'' rank who are African
American, Hispanic American, Asian American, Arab American,
Jewish American, coming from all kinds of backgrounds, in an
organization that runs strictly on merit and depends upon
performance for our very survival.
And yet even there, the other day at Fort Bragg, one of the
centers of our patriotism, the home of the Special Forces,
African American soldiers had swastikas painted on their doors.
We have to work to purge this.
All of these church burnings--I just learned that over the
weekend, a church in my home state was burned--African American
churches, synagogues defaced, three Islamic centers burned.
That is the opposite of what America is all about.
When Hillary and I visited our Olympic team and I looked at
them, I can't help telling you, first of all, I was just
bursting with pride, and I told them. I said, ``You know, just
the fact that you made this team should give you great pride
and great joy. And you should go out among the people of the
world here and relish the spirit of peace and freedom and
equality that exists here.''
And it was a magical moment. One of the young people said
that they'd been to lunch the day before, and the athletes from
South Korea and North Korea were sitting at tables next to each
other and talking. And I though, shoot, I've been trying for
three and a half years to get them to talk, and I couldn't do
it. [Laughter and applause.] It was a magic moment. I couldn't
do it. [Applause.]
But what struck me about the American team was this: If the
American team broke up and were just walking in the Olympic
Village, you could see them and think, well, that athlete is
from Africa; that athlete's from Latin American; that athlete's
from the Caribbean; that athlete's from Scandinavia; that
athlete's from the Middle East. But they could all be
Americans, because we are bound together, not by our race, but
by our fidelity to the Constitution, the Bill of Rights and the
Declaration of Independence, and our belief that we can all
live here in peace and harmony and mutual respect.
So I leave you with that thought. If we meet our
responsibilities to each other and to our children and to our
future, our responsibilities to the world, and if we meet our
fundamental responsibility to go forward together in mutual
respect, then our days are going to get better, and our best
days are still to come.
You can have an enormous influence wherever you live and
whatever you do because of your service to America in uniform
and because of the sacrifice of that service, if you will
remind your fellow Americans of those fundamental lessons.
Thank you and God bless you. [Rising applause.]
Commander McMasters. Thank you, Mr. President, for being
part of our convention.
We are indeed honored to have with us today our nation's
Number 1 veterans' advocate. Shortly after he assumed this high
office, Jesse Brown served notice that he would be Secretary
for Veterans Affairs, not Secretary of Veterans Affairs.
Those of use who know him, who are aware of his track
record as an advocate with the DAV, know Jesse's self-
designated title change signaled a new beginning, a new
beginning that made the Department of Veterans Affairs
accountable to its constituency, as captured in the new VA
motto, ``Putting Veterans First''; a new beginning for
improving VA health care, and a new beginning that saw a
genuine and caring concern for our women and homeless veterans;
a new beginning that pushed to the forefront the needs of our
Persian Gulf veterans and former POWs, and broadened benefits
criteria for Vietnam veterans ravaged by Agent Orange.
It is a long road from the streets of Chicago, through the
jungles of Vietnam to the halls of the White House and a seat
at the Cabinet Room table. Jesse Brown has walked that road
with one thing in mind: Serving the country he dearly loves.
The path of innovative change that Jesse Brown chose to
walk for all of us has been littered with opposition. Jesse
Brown has met these challenges with vigor and determination.
For that, we are in his debt, and we will walk proudly with him
as we join in confronting challenges on the horizon.
Jesse is an incredible man. In one person he combines not
only the most knowledgeable person ever to head the VA, but the
most compassionate as well. He is a man of great spirit, great
courage and great strength.
The Marines looked for a good man in Jesse Brown. America
found a great man.
Please extend a warm welcome to the Honorable Jesse Brown,
the Secretary for Veterans Affairs. [Rising applause.]
Secretary for Veterans Affairs Jesse Brown. Thank you.
thank you very much, Commander, for that very kind and warm
reception. I'm delighted to be here and to see my good friend,
National Adjutant Wilson; our National Auxiliary Commander
Hicks; our National Auxiliary Adjutant Tedrow; my good friend,
Jack Feighner; distinguished guests; my fellow DAV members;
ladies and gentlemen: I want you to know that again, I am
really delighted to be here, and it is clear that I have a hard
act to follow. [Laughter.]
But I can tell you--you know, they cut my travel. They got
so mad at me there in Washington, D.C., because I've been
running around the country telling the veterans what they were
doing to them. But they cut my travel, but they don't know that
I'm really glad to be out of Washington, D.C. [Laughter and
applause.]
You know, it's like a soap opera there. Those new
politicians came to Washington thinking they were the ``Bold
and the Beautiful.'' [Laughter.] And they are trying to turn
this country into ``Another World.'' [Laughter.] But in the
eyes of America, they look more like ``The Young and the
Restless.'' [Laughter and applause.] Because we know that if
they have their way, ``All My Children'' could be thrown out of
the ``General Hospital.'' [Laughter.] We just cannot allow them
to interfere with the ``Days of Our Lives.'' [Laughter.] But
I'm here to tell you today that I've seen ``The Guiding
Light.'' [Laughter.] And if they do not change their ways by
November, they just have ``One Life to Live.'' [Laughter and
Applause.]
Hey, please don't tell them I said that. They'll take the
other 25 percent away from me. [Laughter.]
It's really kind of funny, but unfortunately it is true.
They have turned the civil tides of politics to an atmosphere
of hostility, and that is why we in the Veterans community must
remain focused on the men and women who have borne the battle.
1996 is the year of the Olympics. The world is focused on
the men and women overcoming challenges. The athletes are
competing at the top of their form. And all of them are working
hard, very hard, to get the gold. When the record books are
closed, all athletes want to know that they have done their
very best.
These past three and a half years seem like a marathon to
me. I have run the best race that I know how, and it has not
been easy. I have put my heart and soul into what I believe is
right for veterans and their families.
When I became your Secretary for Veterans Affairs, I had a
vision for change. The first step was to create an atmosphere
where putting veterans first was our Number 1 priority. Putting
veterans first became more than a slogan; it became our
mission.
The system is not perfect. No system is. The race is not
over, and we are still running hard. But veterans know that VA
is more responsive to their needs than four years ago. And it
is also no secret that historically veterans' organizations
felt that they were outsiders. When I accepted this job, that
was one of the first things that I changed.
Today, veterans and VA are partners. We make decisions
together. During this administration, veterans have had a
greater access to the VA and the White House, and it is making
a difference.
In 1993, we inherited a huge backlog of claims, and it was
getting worse. But we turned that around. The waiting time is
down and getting better. That is putting veterans first.
The veterans we serve are getting older. Their health care
needs are changing, and we are changing the way we deliver
health care. We are creating more places for veterans to
receive medical attention. We have reorganized our hospitals,
clinics and nursing homes into 22 integrated networks. We're
shifting our focus from in-patient to outpatient care. We have
taken advantage of the economies of scale in may areas, such as
pharmaceuticals and medical supplies.
And yes, we have sent Congress a plan for national
eligibility reform. We need to get away from those old laws
that prevent VA from providing full, comprehensive health care
to our veterans. Veterans need a health care system that
provides them with everything that they need in order to stay
healthy, and anything less is unacceptable.
Our progress has not come easy. The past two years have
been difficult. But we have survived. We have survived the
challenge to end compensation to some incompetent veterans and
two government shutdowns which delayed compensation and pension
payments.
At the same time, we have made important advances on issues
that are important to us, issues such as improving health care;
Agent Orange; post-traumatic stress disorder; Persian Gulf
illness; improving services for women veterans; POWs; helping
homeless veterans; and burying our veterans with dignity.
These are examples of what we can do if we work together.
And yet I do not believe for one moment that we can let our
guard down, because the threat to veterans' benefits will not
go away. There will always be those who want veterans to share
the pain of shrinking the costs of government.
But we must say to them loud and clear: Don't talk to
veterans about sharing pain. We're no longer the young men and
women we used to be. But we know pain very well: In World War
II, 400,000 dead, 700,000 wounded; Korea, 54,000 dead, 100,000
wounded; Vietnam, 58,000 dead, over 300,000 wounded; and those
brave warriors who died in Saudi Arabia, victims of a cowardly
act. That is pain. Pain mingled with the wounded cries and the
silence of the dead. And that is why we will never, never give
up.
We in the veterans community show honor for our dead by
responding to the needs of the living. Because, for the living,
the cost of war continues after the guns fall silent. That is
putting veterans first, and that is what the VA is all about.
It should be about change, change that responds to the
needs of veterans and their families. But we cannot support and
will not support the unreasonable changes that have been
considered there in Washington, D.C., changes like taxing
compensation and pensions; terminating compensation for
veterans rated 10 and 20 percent disabled; means testing
service-connected disabliblity compensation; and redefining
service connection.
And what stopped those attacks on our benefits from
becoming law? Veterans, their families and our friends in
Congress.
And what about the future? The President has promised to
make sure that the nation honors its commitment to veterans. He
promised to negotiate the budget for veterans every year, and
he's done that. This year, President Clinton recommended a
billion-dollar increase in discretionary spending for the VA,
but Congress cut it by $915 million. And I say to you that we
needed that money for our hospitals.
And, as I have already said, Congress cut my travel money
by 75 percent. That was an obvious attempt to keep me from
speaking out against unfair cuts to veterans' programs. But the
voice of veterans must be heard. This is not about Jesse Brown;
this is about the voice of the veterans' community and their
families. And that is the reason why I'm here. I'm here where I
belong. I will not be shackled in Washington, D.C. And I pledge
to you that I will continue to speak out. [Applause.]
Now, the President has submitted his budget for 1997. It
includes a billion-dollar increase over what Congress approved
for 1996. It provides nearly $600 million more for health care
and other discretionary spending; $400 million more for
benefits; and funding for badly needed hospitals in California
and Florida. This is a good budget, and I hope Congress is kind
to us this year.
But, my friends, that may not be the case. The President
requested $439 million for medical construction. It was cut by
$71 million. This means that we could not build the hospitals
that we needed in Florida and California. But more importantly
than that, this would deny reasonable access of care to over
700,000 veterans. And also, it would not permit us to move
forward on our plans to upgrade VA hospitals that are 40 to 100
years old.
And they have taken away $26 million from BVA. This will
increase our claims backlog and greatly reduce our ability to
improve the quality and timeliness of services to veterans and
their families.
As you can see, the race is not over. We need to get back
to the three R's, and I'm not talking about ``reading, 'writing
and 'rithmetic.'' I'm talking about recognizing, respecting and
remembering the needs of America's veterans. [Applause.]
Military service should not be rewarded with a bitter
taste, a bitter taste served in the cup of champions. And in my
view, and I believe in the view of the eyes of the world, that
our veterans are champions. They are champions for democracy,
champions for freedom.
And that is why it is so important for your work to
continue. You must continue to carry the torch for all
generations to come. You must push on to the next runner.
We cannot fail our veterans because we have a special bond
with them. Many people will never understand that bond, but it
is a bond forged in our common experience, tempered by hardship
and pain, and moved forward by courage and determination.
I would like to leave you with a true story that eloquently
describes this courage and determination. A few years ago, 17-
year-old Michael Stone was competing as a pole vaulter in the
National Junior Olympics. The competition was fierce. By the
finals, another pole vaulter had cleared the bar one foot
higher than Michael had ever done. Michael tried anyway, and he
cleared the bar.
It was raised two more inches. Excitement built as both
athletes cleared the bar again. Then they moved the bar up two
more inches, one inch below the national record. The crowd went
wild when both athletes made it. Finally, the bar was set at 17
feet, six and a half inches. This height would set a new
national record.
The other jumper went first. Michael could not watch. The
sound from the crowd told the story. The other jumper did not
make it. And Michael lined up for his final try. His heart was
pounding. The height was an unbelievable 18 and a half inches
higher than his previous record.
And there was complete silence, much as there is here
today. He sprinted toward the approach and vaulted into the
air, and the crowd went wild, and he knew that he had made it.
The new champion did not look up to see if the bar was still
standing. He did not look to the bleachers to see his mother
and father crying. For you see, Michael Stone is totally blind.
Now, that is a moving story, because it means something to
us in the Disabled American Veterans, a tremendous story,
because Michael had courage and determination.
For veterans, the competition is not over, and like
Michael, we cannot see all of the obstacles ahead. But like
him, veterans have courage and determination to keep the
promise to those who ran the good race before us, and keep that
promise we shall.
I love all of you, and thank you so very, very much.
[Rising applause.]
Commander McMasters. Thank you, Mr. Secretary.
I would not like to introduce your line officers, and I
would ask that you hold your applause until I've introduced all
of them. National Senior Vice-Commander Gregory C. Reed from
Indiana; 1st Junior Vice-Commander Harry R. McDonald, Jr. from
Florida; 2nd Junior Vice-Commander William D. Wiggins of
Virginia; 3rd Junior Vice-Commander Andrew A. Kistler of
Pennsylvania; 4th Junior Vice-Commander Michael E. Dobmeier of
North Dakota; National Judge Advocate Edward G. Galian of New
York; National Chaplain Reverend Oscar I. Wilkie of Oklahoma;
and Past National Commander Donald A. Sioss of New York.
[Applause.]
At this time, I'm going to introduce the National Executive
Committee people. From the 1st District, Everett J. Nygard, Jr.
of Massachusetts; George R. LePorte of New York from 2nd
District; 3rd District, David A. Schiapo of Rhode Island; 4th
District, Albert R. Fanslau of New Jersey; 5th District, Donald
C. Graffius of Pennsylvania; 6th District, Carl J. Carter of
Washington, D.C.; 7th District, Tommy R. Simms of Florida; 8th
District, John A. Bell of Mississippi; 9th District, Ronald L.
Voegeli of South Carolina; my district, the 10th District,
Lowell G. McKeehan from Michigan; the 11th District, Nicholas
J. Border of Ohio; 12th District, Dorothy R. Schilling of
Wisconsin; the 13the District, Glen E. Vogel. Sr. of Indiana;
14th District, Victor C. Hass of North Dakota; 15th District,
Francis E. McLaskey of Iowa; 16th District, Charles H. Demele
of California; 17th District, Stanley L. Miller of New Mexico;
18th District, Edwin K. Wise of Hawaii; 19th District, Fred G.
Rupert of Alaska; 20th District, Earl Dean Walker of Texas; and
from the 21st District, Adrian H. Hunt of Arkansas. That's our
National Executive Committee. [Applause.]
I'd also like to recognize a person who's been of great
assistance to me this year, my National Chief of Staff, Leo J.
LeRoux of Michigan, who had to leave because of his mother-in-
law's passing. Also, my Officer of the Day from Michigan,
Margherita Dupras; and my Sergeant-at-Arms, Clyde Couch of
Texas.
And last, I want to express my sincere thanks to National
Historian Jack Feighner of Ohio, to whom we owe a deep sense of
gratitude. [Applause.]
It is now my pleasure and privilege to call to the podium a
woman I am proud to know and even prouder to call my friend.
Barb Hicks has led the Auxiliary with devoted leadership and
love and warmth during the past year.
Barb has worked ceaselessly and diligently to lead the
Auxiliary in helping the families of disabled veterans who
sacrificed so much for their country. Wherever I journeyed
during my time as national commander, I found Auxiliary members
working alongside DAV members in our struggle to protect
benefits and serves for disabled veterans and their families.
Barb has been a strong and compassionate voice on the
behalf of families of disabled veterans. She has stood proudly
on many occasions to represent the DAV and the Auxiliary. Andy
from the joint hearing of the House and Senate Committee on
Veterans' Affairs to the commemorative events surrounding the
50th anniversary of V-J Day in Hawaii, she has personified the
strength and solidarity that we admire and respect in the DAV
Auxiliary.
Barb's deep awareness of the issues facing disabled
veterans and their families is punctuated by 33 years of
service as an Auxiliary member. Her dedication is without
question, and her determination without equal.
Please join me in welcoming an admirable woman, an
exceptional leader, and a devoted friend, my counterpart in the
Auxiliary, Auxiliary National Commander Barb Hicks. [Rising
applause.]
Auxiliary Commander Barbara L. Hick. Thank you, Commander
Tom, for your very kind introduction. I'm indeed honored to be
here to share this historic convention.
Before I deliver my report to our members gathered here
today, I want to personally and on behalf of the entire
Auxiliary, honor a man whose devotion and leadership epitomizes
all the DAV and Auxiliary stand for. It is my privilege to have
met and served with Tom McMasters. It has been a true joy to
know his wife, Sandi, and their lonely children.
Our Auxiliary has had the great good fortune of having a
DAV national commander who enthusiastically praised, welcomed
and sought our service to disabled veterans and their families.
He took every opportunity to show love, respect and
appreciation for the Auxiliary, and we are forever grateful for
his comradeship.
Commander Tom, I am pleased to present this plaque to you,
thanking you for making the Auxiliary such an important part of
the DAV. It reads:
Presented to Thomas A. McMasters, III, National Commander, in
appreciation for distinguished service given to Disabled
American Veterans Auxiliary, 1995-1996.
Signed by National Adjutant Maria M. Tedrow and National
Commander Barbara L. Hicks. [Applause.]
On behalf of myself and all Auxiliary members, thank you
for sharing your year with us.
National Commander McMasters, National Adjutants Art Wilson
and Maria Tedrow, convention delegates, honored quests,
families and friends: It has been an honor to serve as your
Auxiliary national commander. I am bursting with pride and
enthusiasm at the accomplishments of the Auxiliary during the
past year. I'm tremendously proud to report the Auxiliary met
and it exceeded membership quota this year. [Applause.]
As I look around the room, I see familiar faces and new
faces. I see determination and hope, compassion and strength,
and concern and love. I see the DAV and Auxiliary at their
best.
As Auxiliary members, we share the experience of a loved
one disabled in service to this nation. You, the disabled
veterans in our lives are constant reminders of blood spilled,
bodies maimed and minds scarred in defense of this country. We
are the ones who share your lives. We are your wives, mothers,
sisters, daughters, grandmothers and granddaughters.
We are the Auxiliary. We stand beside the DAV in the battle
to build better lives for our disabled veterans and their
families. Our Auxiliary is there in spirit and force
representing disabled veterans, their families, widows and
orphans before all branches of government, from the White House
to the courthouse.
From the 1996 Midwinter Conference in Washington, DC to the
snow-covered slopes of Crested Butte, Colorado at the 10th
National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic, the Auxiliary
was there with the DAV. When I saw determination turn into
jubilation on the faces of the men and women attending the
Winter Sports Clinic, my heart soared. It is something I
believe every Auxiliary commander should experience.
The Auxiliary has come a long way since our founders
established the DAV Auxiliary in 1922. But we have never
wavered from our common goal of helping the families of
veterans who sacrificed so much for our country in wars and
conflicts throughout the world.
The women who built our Auxiliary were true champions who
left a legacy of service and love to one and all gathered here
today. They were the leaders and mentors always there to guide
us and help us grow in this great organization.
Sadly, most of our early leaders are gone now. Death and
the frailty of age have claimed them, but their spirit lives on
in each of us and in our Auxiliary. We pursue their legacy as
we face the challenging mission of ensuring that America
remembers her disabled veterans.
The spirit of our founders was present at the Auxiliary
Fall Conference in Dayton, Ohio last year. Members attending
the conference had the opportunity to learn from the expertise
of others and share their experience. It was exciting to see
experienced Auxiliary leaders training the next generation of
Auxiliary leaders. It was a fun and rewarding opportunity for
all who attended.
I encourage all Auxiliary members to attend this year's
exciting three-day event in Louisville, Kentucky. The 1996 Fall
Conference will be held at the beautiful Galt House East in
Louisville, September 26th through September 28th. Be sure to
bring your husbands, too. Those who attended last year had a
good time and learned a lot about our Auxiliary.
At the Fall Conference, Auxiliary members learn that it is
up to the DAV and Auxiliary to see to it that those who seem
bent on destroying our country's commitment to our disabled
loved ones, and, yes, our families in the process, are stopped.
Every time our government considers measures that endanger
the benefits, services and programs our families need and
depend on, we must convince them otherwise. Working alongside
DAV members, Auxiliary members shoulder the task of making sure
our elected officials understand that disabled veterans and
their families, our families, deserve only the best treatment a
grateful nation can provide.
Regardless of how many letters and telegrams we must send,
or how many phone calls we must make to our elected leaders to
turn the tide, the Auxiliary stands at the forefront of battle
with the DAV to protect the benefits disabled veterans have
earned for themselves and our families.
We are not misled by the rhetoric of those so-called
leaders. They speak of balancing the budget through shared
sacrifices, while the VA's ability to provide timely, effective
and compassionate benefits and services deteriorates. Some
refer to veterans' programs as scared cows, yet veterans are
dying waiting for help, because the VA is underfunded and
insufficiently staffed.
What do these so-called leaders really know of shared
sacrifice? Have they been awakened by a disabled loved one's
nightmares? Have they watched the hurt in a father's eyes when
he is unable to toss a baseball with his son because he lost an
arm to an enemy's bullet? Have they lugged a wheelchair in and
out of the trunk of a car time and time again for a son who
lost his legs to an enemy mine in Vietnam? Have they watched
tears roll down the face of a grandfather blinded in World War
II as his fingers trace the outlines of his grandson's face?
After uttering those words at a recent department
convention, a young man came up to me and thanked me. He was
profoundly moved because his grandfather was blinded in World
War II. That young man had never experienced war. He was not
disabled. But he understood the pain and suffering that all of
us gathered here know.
We live with the pain and suffering every day. We watch as
the lives of our disabled loved ones are cut short due to their
disabilities. Look around you, and you will quickly see that
the number of widows among us grows us each year. These women
need our support and compassion during their time of grief.
Many also need additional financial support. Thanks to the
generosity of the Auxiliary state departments and units
nationwide, we are able to provide the financial support to our
Auxiliary members through the Auxiliary Service/Support
Program. It is a program that exists thanks to Auxiliary
members. Auxiliary and DAV members give generously to the
Auxiliary Service/Support Program to provide assistance to
women just like you who have fallen on hard times.
The generosity we put into this program makes a crucial
difference in the lives of Auxiliary members. It helps put food
on the table for a woman and her children and pays the utility
bill for a widow with no one to turn to. It helps when a woman
most needs our help.
The Auxiliary triumphs over challenge throughout the year.
One has but to look at the array of projects and services
Auxiliary members are involved in every day to see the
monumental impact members have on the lives of our disabled
loved ones, our families and communities.
Auxiliary members join DAV members to donate millions of
hours of volunteer service to patients at VA medical centers,
nursing homes, clinics, domiciliaries every year. Where there's
a Voluntary Service Program you'll find Auxiliary members
striving to help.
Helping veterans' widows and children, homeless veterans
and older veterans extends far beyond the confines of VA
facilities and into our communities. From delivering hot meals
to providing respite care, Auxiliary members work to help
disabled veterans and their families, in communities
nationwide.
The combined strength of every woman who makes it her
business to be a member of the DAV Auxiliary makes the good
works of the Auxiliary possible.
Yet, it has been a great year. We are proud of the
partnership between the Auxiliary and the Disabled American
Veterans, and I can assure you it has grown stronger over the
past year. With leaders like Commander Tom who encourage our
partnership, I have no doubt we will grow even stronger in the
years to come.
Thank you very much and God bless. [Rising applause.]
Thank you. I, too, would like to introduce my line
officers. Senior Vice-Commander Margaret Hass; 1st Junior Vice-
Commander Evelynne Dunn; 2nd Junior Vice-Commander Evelyn
Dorsey; 3rd Junior Vice-Commander Paula Raymond; 4th Junior
Vice-Commander Phyllis Novak; National Judge Advocate Past
National Commander Sheila Allred; National Chaplain Carol Gray;
Past National Commander Jane Troutman; National Adjutant Past
National Commander Maria Tedrow; Assistant National Adjutant
Judy Hezlep; our National Convention Chairman Elaine Majors.
[Applause.]
And I would like to introduce my National Executive
Committeewomen, and would you please hold your applause until I
have introduced them. District 1, Jackie Fossiano,
Massachusetts; District 2, Betty Nelson, New York; District 3,
Grace Boland, Rhode Island; District 4, Arline Phillips,
Delaware; District 5, E. Jimi Hayes, Pennsylvania; the
alternate NEC, District 6, Mildred Velazquez, Puerto Rico;
alternate NEC District 7, Grace McLaughlin, Florida; District
8, Vernice Eunice, Alabama; District 9, Vicky Grier, Georgia;
District 10, Zona McNeal, Michigan; District 11, Jane Wood,
Ohio; District 12, Zona Schaol, Wisconsin; District 13, Esther
Houston, Indiana; District 14, Annette Bain-Wilson, Montana;
District 15, Dee Staples, Kansas; District 16, Vera Flatow,
California; District 17, Dorothy Dudoich, New Mexico; District
18, Janet Bennett, Nevada; District 19, Esther Westlake,
Washington; District 20, Ann Hester, Texas; District 21,
Gertrude Tidwell, Oklahoma.
Please give them applause. [Applause.]
At this time, I would like to introduce Past National
Commander Nelda Wilson from Illinois for a presentation.
Mrs. Nelda Wilson. National Commander McMasters, National
Commander Hicks, national officers, honored guests and
delegates: The purpose of the Past National Commander Award is
to recognize the contributions and dedication of an outstanding
member whose efforts have enhanced the goals of the Auxiliary
and the parent organization and has been active in her
community for the past calendar year.
To each of the members whose names were submitted for this
award, we say thank you and congratulations. You are truly
examples of Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary members at
work, caring and sharing, helping our disabled members and
members of our community.
The recipient of this award this year is Mary Lou Webber,
Unit 24, Valley City, North Dakota. Mary Lou has worked in all
phases of our community and the Auxiliary programs and has been
an active member in her church. Within the community, Mrs.
Webber supports the Champion for Children's Program, donates to
and is an active member of an abused outreach center. She's
also involved in assisting a local support group for persons
living with cancer and provides transportation for patients to
and from medical appointments and treatments.
Mary Lou's sponsor's words really say it best, quote: ``The
DAVA is so lucky to have Mary Lou as a member. Mary Lou is a
most dedicated member that any organization could hope to have.
She actually schedules the rest of her life around all of the
DAVA activities.''
Mary Lou is eligible through her husband, Rheinhold, a POW
during World War II. I'm sure he's here today, along with her
son and daughter-in-law.
So would you now please help me welcome Mary Lou Webber.
[Rising applause.]
Mary Lou, it's an honor for me to present this award to you
on behalf of the past national commanders, the DAV Past
National Commander Award to Mary Lou Webber, Outstanding Member
of the Year 1995. Congratulations. [Applause.]
Mrs. Mary Lou Webber. I would like to thank the past
national commanders for this award. I would also like to thank
my unit, Valley City, North Dakota, Number 4, for nominating
me. I belong to a small unit in a small state, but in North
Dakota we have big hearts for our veterans.
Thank you again. [Applause.]
Commander McMasters. Commander Barbara, thank you very much
for fulfilling your pledge that you made in Dayton when you
said you'd stand shoulder to shoulder with us.
Each year, the DAV selects an Outstanding Disabled Veteran
of the Year. The award is presented to an individual who has
overcome personal, social and physical barriers to excel in
life, an individual who serves as a mentor to all disabled
veterans.
The Outstanding Disabled Veteran of the Year inspires
courage in the face of fear, strength in the face of hardship
and achievement in the face of defeat. Ned Clapp is such a man.
Ned always wanted to fly. As a boy, he was fascinated with
planes and flying. He dreamed of one day being a pilot and set
out to make his dream come true. He followed in his father's
footsteps to West Point to pursue a career as an Army pilot.
But after graduating and receiving his commission to 2nd
lieutenant in 1970, he wound up in Vietnam with the 101st
Airmobile Division as an artillery forward observer.
While serving with an infantry company during a battalion
sweep to locate a North Vietnamese Army base camp near Phu Bai,
Vietnam, Ned stepped on a booby trap. It was the same day the
company platoon leader had told him a helicopter was on its way
to take him back for his promotion to 1st lieutenant.
The incoming helicopter rushed him to a hospital for
lifesaving, emergency surgery, where he suffered the loss of
his right leg below the knee and half of his left foot. He
hopes for a career as an Army pilot changed forever, but not
his dream to fly.
While an outpatient at Fitzsimmons Army Medical Center in
Denver, Ned obtained his private pilot license in 1972. He went
on to earn a commercial pilot license, commercial instrument
rating, sailplane rating and multi-engine rating, using his GI
Bill.
He returned to active duty in 1973 and served as a
mechanized infantry and field artillery officer. But increasing
physical difficulty for the young captain led Ned to accept a
medical discharge in 1975.
Ned left the military and went to work for Denver Avionics
to learn the aircraft electronics business under the VA's
Vocational Rehab Program. He eventually purchased a business
offering flight training, aircraft charter, maintenance and
aircraft sales. Before selling the business in 1981, he amassed
5,123 hours of flying time.
Ned also started a computer business offering bookkeeping
and accounting services to small businesses, which he continues
to operate on a small scale. He has used his computer expertise
to help all veterans organizations in the Fargo area set up
their computer systems, including the Fargo DAV National
Service Office.
In September 1985, Ned joined the Department of Veterans
Affairs as a prosthetic representative trainee. Today he is the
chief of Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service at the Fargo VA
Medical Center, where he strives to ensure that veterans
received all the services they need to function outside the
hospital setting. During his tenure, the service has grown from
serving 2,200 disabled veterans per year to more than 8,000 per
year. Under Ned's supervision, the Prosthetic and Sensory Aids
Service has become one of the most highly regarded services at
that medical center.
A life member of DAV Chapter Number 1 in Fargo, North
Dakota, Ned is also a dedicated family man. He and his wife,
Deborah, are the proud parents of three sons: Griffin, Jim and
Adam. All of the boys play baseball, a Clapp family passion.
Last year, Ned and Debbie took in 130 games coaching,
observing and score-keeping with the boys. Ned is in his fourth
year of coaching Babe Ruth baseball. He is also a member of the
Fargo Babe Ruth Baseball League Board of Directors and has also
coached youth soccer and youth football.
In 1991, Ned attended his first National Disabled Veterans
Winter Sports Clinic at Snowmass in Aspen, Colorado. He
returned to clinics at Crested Butte, Colorado in 1992 and
1993. He now owns his own mono-ski and skis in Minnesota and
Montana with his sons and their friends.
Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in welcoming a man who
has overcome all obstacles to follow his dreams, a man who
strives to live each day to its fullest and helps those around
him live theirs fully as well: DAV's 1996 Outstanding Disabled
Veteran of the Year, Mr. Ned Clapp. I'm going to present this
plaque to you, Ned. It says:
For conspicuous and meritorious effort in overcoming a severe
service-connected disability to the end that you have achieved
success and a high order of accomplishment in your vocational
effort of choice. Further, that such consistent and noteworthy
accomplishment will ever serve as an inspiration and challenge
to your comrades.
It's signed Thomas A. McMasters, National Commander, and
Arthur H. Wilson, National Adjutant. Congratulations.
[Applause.]
Mr. Ned Clapp. Thank you very much. I'm blown away. I
remember thinking when I was 2nd lieutenant in Vietnam that I
would much rather be dead than messed up, because once you're
messed up, there is no future. And through a lot of other
people's efforts I'm where I am today. The VA and the DAV have
been my safety net. It's always nice to have somebody to go to
when you need help, and both of these people or these groups of
people have been a tremendous help to me and to my family. It
really is truly unbelievable.
This is what the DAV and the VA are all about. It's helping
guys like me who have suffered an injury or some other
disability as a result of serving their country in a military
capacity to return to a normal, or as normal a life as they
can. And I hope--I like to think that my life has just been
normal. I don't think of myself as an outstanding person or
have done outstanding things. I just think of myself as normal,
but it's nice to have help of the people like the DAV and the
VA to do it.
Thank you. I am so humbled by this, it's unbelievable.
Thank you, thank you, thank you. [Rising applause.]
Commander McMasters. Each year, thousands of DAV and
Auxiliary members dedicate countless hours of volunteer work as
part of the VA Voluntary Services or VAVS Program. And each
year, it is with great pleasure and pride that the national
commander recognizes one DAV and one Auxiliary member for their
outstanding volunteer efforts through the George H. Seal
Memorial Award.
Many of us knew and loved George Seal, and we will always
remember him. For more than ten years, George served as the
DAV's National VAVS representative. He was also a member of the
National VAVS Advisory Committee for many years. For George,
the VAVS Program was a passion from the time he became involved
with the program in 1952 until his death in 1977.
Therefore, it is only fitting that his name graces this
award, presented each year to honor one DAV and one Auxiliary
member for their outstanding volunteer efforts on behalf of
hospitalized veterans and their families.
This year's recipients are testimony of the spirit,
dedication and love that our organization's volunteers
demonstrate through their work with hospitalized veterans
nationwide.
The 1996 George H. Seal Memorial Award goes to DAV member
Tillman Rutledge of DAV Chapter Number 5, San Antonio, Texas.
[Applause.] We also present the George H. Seal Memorial Award
to Auxiliary member Dorothy Marie Waters of Auxiliary Unit
Number 83, Round Lake, Illinois. [Applause.]
Mr. Rutledge has been a VAVS volunteer for more than 20
years at the Audie L. Murphy VA Medical Center in San Antonio.
He has donated more than 25,000 hours of service to improve the
quality of life for hospitalized veterans. What does Mr.
Rutledge do? Anything that needs doing. He can be found working
at any number of tasks for the Voluntary Service Office, the
Chaplain's Service and Recreation Service. In addition, Mr.
Rutledge is the State VAVS chairman.
Though he suffers from the effects of being a former
prisoner of war, which included poor nutrition and physical
abuse, Mr. Rutledge never lets up on his volunteer efforts to
help his fellow veterans. He is not only a great volunteer, he
is a true inspiration for the entire VAVS Program.
Please join me in welcoming outstanding VAVS volunteer
Tillman Rutledge. [Rising applause.]
The inscription is: ``George H. Seal Memorial Award Winner
1996, DAV, Tillman J. Rutledge, San Antonio Medical Center,
Texas.''
Mr. Tillman J. Rutledge. Thank you. Is anybody left out
there? I can't see anything. [Laughter.] Anyway, good
afternoon, if you're still there. Thank you, Commander
McMasters, for those very nice remarks. I'm not sure I deserve
them, but I do appreciate them.
Before my remarks, I'd like to introduce two outstanding
ladies, one of the sweetest, nicest and strongest persons I've
ever known, my wife and best friend, Joyce, without whose
support and patience I'd probably be lost. And she was also one
of the first volunteers at Audie Murphy, but after 50-plus
surgeries, she's down to one day a week, and that's Sunday with
her TV crew. She's sitting down there somewhere. [Applause.]
And Miss Donna Charles, chief of Volunteer Service, South
Texas Veterans Health Care System--that's part of this
reorganization title--who thought me worthy of nomination and
nominated me for this most prestigious award, and who is also a
dear friend. She's sitting down there with Joyce. [Applause.]
Thank you. Thank you, Joyce and DJ.
When Tom and I finally made connections on 29 April, 1996,
Joyce and I had just returned from a VAVS BPP trip, Benefit for
Texas Program Trip, to West Texas and the Panhandle, and that's
a long ways in Texas, further from San Antonio to where we were
there to here. When Tom told me what he wanted to talk to me
about, that the committee had called or faxed him that I was
the selectee for the 19th Annual George H. Seal Memorial Award,
as I recall, I was quiet, and Tom asked if I was still there.
I told him I was, but I was tired and flabbergasted,
shocked, delighted and at a loss for words. And he replied,
``Well, you have about three months to come up with
something.'' So I've got a few.
I told Tom and Bruce Nitsche, my boss here in Washington--
here in Washington, how about that?--when he called me later to
also congratulate me, that I do not do what I do for awards and
I would not take on all that I have for awards. That wasn't and
is not my commitment. But I most certainly would accept this
great honor and recognition award and what it meant with
gratitude and honor.
They both replied that they knew that and both were very
happy and glad for me that I had received it. I truly
appreciated that also.
I love doing what I do. Some good close friends tell me I
don't know how to say No. I've never been nominated for this
award before. This was my first. I did receive Secretary
Brown's Exceptional Volunteer Award with diamonds in 1994.
After talking to Tom, though, it suddenly dawned on me, I'm
only the 19th recipient. If the procedure was such that--and it
would be wrong to do it this way, of course--that a volunteer
at every VAMC was to receive this award, and Audie Murphy's lot
came up last, it would be the year 2149 before Audie Murphy
received it. Wow!
Another thought. Can being a DAV volunteer get any better
than this? I don't think so.
And speaking of VAVS and BPP: Get involved. DAV is still
Number 1, in VAVS, but you're needed in both of these programs.
Remember, we slipped a little bit last year in volunteers and
hours.
I want to thank the committee for considering me worthy of
this great honor. I'm also grateful to Audie Murphy for feeling
so honored, Mr. Coronado, our outstanding director, and all the
staff at Audie Murphy. Thank you. It's great. And Don is
absolutely thrilled.
Also, to receive this honor on the 50th anniversary of VAVS
is particularly significant, at least to me.
One last comment: I could not do all that I do on my own. I
would not even try. I am loaded with responsibilities and
duties. Any abilities I have, any strengths that I posses come
from a Higher Being. I will humbly accept this recognition in
great honor, but to Him goes all the praise and the glory.
God bless America, America's veterans, the DAV, our
dedicated VA health care givers, and our DAV and DAVA
volunteers who honestly give of their time and talents. Thank
you so very, very much. [Applause.]
Commander McMasters. Our next George H. Seal Memorial Award
recipient has been a volunteer at the North Chicago VA Medical
Center for--are you ready for this?--43 years. Dorothy Marie
Waters has donated more than 32,000 hours of her time to make a
difference in veterans' live.
Volunteering is a love affair for Dorothy. She brings a
bright smile and a warm touch into the lives of hospitalized
veterans every day.
This tremendous woman travels 40 miles round trip to and
from the medical center to do her volunteer work. She begins
her day as a volunteer at 4:30 each morning, preparing coffee
and refreshments for other volunteers, where her cheerful
nature starts everyone's day off right. That's just the
beginning. Ms. Waters' volunteer duties include community
affairs, media support and information services, which she
carries out with the same great enthusiasm.
Ms. Waters' dedication and commitment to her volunteer work
with hospitalized veterans at the medical center have brought
quality and integrity to the meaning of volunteer services.
It's volunteers like Ms. Waters who make DAV volunteers the
best in the world.
Please join me in welcoming outstanding Auxiliary VAVS
volunteer Dorothy Marie Waters. [Rising applause.]
I'm also going to read the inscription: ``The George H.
Seal Memorial Award winner, 1996, DAVA, Dorothy Marie Waters,
North Chicago VA Medical Center, Illinois.''
You know, when I called Dorothy, she was on vacation. I
think it was the first vacation that she had taken--well,
according to her 43 years of volunteer work and the number of
hours that she has, it might be the first one ever. But she had
such a good strong voice, it was something that made me step
back a little bit and say I hope I'm like this when I'm this
age. [Laughter and applause.]
Ms. Dorothy Marie Waters. Now, I'm not a big speaker like
the rest of these people, but all I have to say, I thank you
very much for the gift, and I thank my chief, Lisa Howard, who
is out in the audience, who sent my name in for the award. And
I love my volunteering. And as I say, I go there five days a
week, and that's what keeps me young. [Applause.]
Commander McMasters. We all know how lucky we are to be
members of a great organization like the DAV, but what does it
feel like to be the luckiest member of the DAV? The person I'm
about to introduce can tell you. He was the luckiest of 104 DAV
members who shared in this year's DAV $250,000 Sweepstakes. He
won the $100,000 Grand Prize Award.
Not only is he the luckiest person I know, he's also
retired and lives in Pensacola, Florida, with his lovely wife,
Mavis. That means he has the time to enjoy his grand prize and
someone to help spend it.
Please join me in welcoming the man who says he'll
certainly believe in miracles from now on, DAV member Robert
Kilpatrick. It's pay day, Robert! [Rising applause.]
Mr. Robert Kilpatrick. I know you don't have to be known to
win now, but you do have to have a ticket. And I thank all of
you, and God bless all of you. [Applause.]
Commander McMasters. We're all certainly happy for Mr.
Kilpatrick and wish him the very best with his grand prize
check. Robert, several members have volunteered to help you
carry that check to the bank for a small fee, if you're
interested. [Laughter.]
On a more serious note, I want to thank everyone who made
the sweepstakes such a success. It's great to award so many
prizes to our members, but the biggest winners of all are our
DAV state department service programs. Every DAV state
department shares in the proceeds of donations from the DAV
$250,000 Sweepstakes. Thanks to the sweepstakes, departments
can finance and expand state-level services to care for more
disabled veterans and their families than ever before. That's
the greatest prize of all.
The adjutant will now read the names of the convention
committee advisors that I have appointed and who received the
approval of the National Executive Committee at its most recent
meeting. Mr. Adjutant.
Adjutant Wilson. Credentials, Charles D. Luttjohann;
General Resolutions and Membership, Jerry P. Steelman, Rick
Surratt; Legislation and Veterans Rights, Thomas L. Tomlinson,
Richard F. Schultz; Constitution and Bylaws, Fred R. Bristol
and Edward G. Galian; Finance and Dues, Earl D. Walker, Richard
E. Patterson; Employment, Michael Godich, Jr., Ronald W. Drach;
Hospital and Voluntary Services, Henry A. Veillette, Norman B.
Hartnett; Nomination of National Officers, Gene A. Murphy,
William E. Leach. Thank you.
Commander McMasters. Ladies and gentlemen, if you will
please rise, I will ask the chaplain to lead us in a closing
prayer.
Chaplain Wilkie. Let us pray. Father, we've heard a lot of
words today, a lot of rhetoric, a lot of promises of help, but
we raise our eyes and know that our help truly comes from God.
Therefore, Father, help us that we may build upon the
foundations that have been laid, that we might be able to
construct a facility that truly will bring service and
assistance to those to whom we are dedicated to serve.
Take us now to our places of refreshment and rest that we
may arrive back at this place in the morning ready to build
that building, that house of service. Amen.
Commander McMasters. The convention is in recess until
10:00 o'clock tomorrow morning.
[Whereupon, the meeting recessed at 3:55 o'clock p.m., July
28, 1996.]
FIRST BUSINESS SESSION
July 29, 1996
The First Business Session of the Disabled American
Veterans 75th National Convention convened in the Grand
Ballroom of the New Orleans Hilton Riverside, New Orleans,
Louisiana, Monday morning, July 29, 1996, and was called to
order at 10:00 o'clock a.m. by Commander Thomas McMaster III.
Commander Thomas A. McMasters III. The convention will come
to order.
In opening the First Business Session of the 75th National
Convention of the Disabled American Veterans, it is fitting and
proper that we render the respect due to the flag. Please join
me in the Pledge of Allegiance.
[Pledge of Allegiance.]
Commander McMasters. We will now be led in prayer by our
national chaplain, the Reverend Oscar Wilkie.
Chaplain Wilkie. Again, as we being another day of business
and consideration, let us take a moment of silence to ask God
to remember and to bless those who are ill. We have some of our
people that are in the hospital, that have been taken since we
have been here, I understand are doing well.
Let us remember all of those who are in need or distress,
either physically or emotionally, in a moment of silence.
[Moment of silence.]
Chaplain Wilkie. Once again, we pause to bring praise to
You, Father, that You have given to us a good night of rest,
that you have brought us again to this happy hour that we might
be able now to consider the business affairs of the Disabled
American Veterans.
Again I ask Your blessings upon our commander, Tom
McMasters, upon our adjutant, Art Wilson, and all of those who
lead us, that we might indeed be able to consider the matters
before us and do those things which are pleasing in Thy sight.
Amen.
Commander McMasters. Please be seated.
In order for a delegate to be heard at this convention, he
must be recognized by the Chair. Only those delegates at a
microphone will be recognized. The delegate must state his
name, chapter number, chapter number and the state he
represents.
I call on the Credentials Committee for their first report.
Mr. Virgil A. Barnett. Good morning. Comrade Commander and
delegates, the National Convention Committee on Credentials was
called to order for the First Business Session by the advisor,
Charles Luttjohann. The first order of business was the
election of Credentials Committee chairman. Virgil Barnett was
nominated for chairman. There being no further nominations,
Virgil Barnett was elected chairman.
The next order of business was the nomination and election
of the secretary. Jerry Worthington was nominated and elected
as secretary.
The Credentials Committee met this morning in the
Jasperwood Room at 7:00 o'clock at the New Orleans Hilton
Riverside Hotel. Roll call showed 1,291 delegates; 50
alternates. This is a partial report for informational purposes
only and reflects the registration at the close of registration
at 4:00 o'clock on July 28th. At the present time, we have 471
chapters, 49 departments, 27 national officers, 10 past
national commanders, for a total of 1,291 delegates, 50
alternates, and a total vote of 10,540.
This completes the partial report of the Credentials
Committee, Commander. Thank you.
Commander McMasters. The first order of business of this
convention is the adoption of the Rules. Printed copies of the
Rules have been furnished to each registered delegate. The
Chair will entertain a motion for the adoption of the Rules.
[Motion made from the floor.]
Member. Comrade Commander, Massachusetts, Joseph R. Harold
Chapter Number 10, seconds that motion.
Mr. Anthony Fusco. Comrade Commander, Anthony Fusco,
Brooklyn Chapter 28, New York.
Commander McMasters. Okay, Mr. Fusco, I'll recognize you.
Mr. Fusco. I move to amend the Rules to incorporate the
change which has been placed on the delegates' chairs this
morning.
Commander McMasters. Would you please read that change so
we all know what it is?
Mr. Fusco. Yes, Mr. Commander. The following rule was
discussed by the Convention Committee on Employment, and it is
recommended to the national convention for adoption.
RESOLVED to amend:
Section 3.10, Rule 21(f), Committee on Employment. This
committee shall consider all matters concerning all forms of
employment of disabled veterans, as well as the preference
rights and examination, appointments, retention, promotions or
employment or reemployment rights in Federal Civil Service and
in state, county and city governments. This committee will also
consider matters relating to vocational rehabilitation,
education and training, except provided by Title 38 in U.S.
Code.
The new reading will only be the last sentence, which will
read: ``This committee will consider matters relating to
vocational rehabilitation and training'' period.
Commander McMasters. Thank you, Mr. Fusco. Is there
support? Mike 3.
Mr. Richard Christopher. Richard Christopher, past
department commander, Massachusetts, Chapter 115, so seconds
the motion.
Commander McMasters. Okay. We have the motion and support.
Are you ready for the question? Are you ready for the question?
Ready for the question. All in favor, signify by Aye; opposed.
It's carried.
I will now ask the national adjutant to read the Statement
of Policy.
Adjutant Wilson. The Disabled American Veterans was founded
on the principle that this nation's first duty to veterans is
the rehabilitation of its wartime disabled. This principle
envisions:
1. High quality hospital and medical care administered by
the Department of Veterans Affairs for veterans with
disabilities incurred or aggravated by service in America's
armed forces.
2. Adequate compensation for the loss resulting from such
service-connected disabilities.
3. Vocational rehabilitation and/or education to help the
disabled veteran prepare for and obtain gainful employment.
4. Enhanced opportunities for employment and preferential
job placement so that the remaining ability of the disabled
veteran is used productively.
5. Adequate compensation to the widows and survivors of
veterans whose deaths are held to be service-connected under
laws administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs. It
therefore follows that we will not take action on any
resolution that proposes legislation designed to provide
benefits for other than wartime, service-connected disability.
We shall not oppose legislation beneficial to those veterans
not classified as service-connected disabled, except when it is
evident that such legislation will jeopardize benefits for
service-connected disabled veterans.
While our first duty as an organization is to assist the
service-connected disabled, their dependents and survivors, we
will, within the limits of our resources, assist others in
filing, perfecting and prosecuting their claims for benefits.
Since this represents the principle upon which our
organization was founded, and since it is as sound at this time
as it was in 1920, we hereby reaffirm this principle as the
policy for the Disabled American Veterans.
Commander McMasters. Thank you. The Chair will entertain a
motion to adopt the Policy Statement. Mike 3.
Mr. Fusco. Anthony Fusco, Brooklyn 28, New York, makes the
motion to adopt.
Commander McMasters. Mike 1.
Mr. James McCormick. Comrade Commander, McCormick, Chapter
46, State of Washington, second the motion.
Commander McMasters. Okay. The motion has been made and
supported. Are we all ready for the question? All in favor,
signify by Aye; opposed. It's carried.
On July 11th, 141 new Ford vans left DAV National
Headquarters for VA medical centers in 35 states and Puerto
Rico. Today, those vans, purchased in partnership between the
national organization and the departments and chapters
nationwide, are serving veterans. As I speak, volunteers are
using the new vans to transport sick and disabled veterans to
and from VA medical centers for needed medical care.
We can all be proud of this accomplishment, and I thank
each and every one of you who worked so hard to make it happen.
I wish everyone could have been present for the tremendous
drive-away ceremony on July 11th. It was a truly impressive
sight to see.
Since I know many of you couldn't be there, we have a
special treat for you. We brought along a video of the event.
And after viewing this video, I believe you will agree with me
when I say money spent to serve disabled veterans is money well
spent.
[Video presentation.]
Commander McMasters. The film was quite a tribute to the
DAV Transportation Network, wasn't it? Quite a tribute to all
the DAV and Auxiliary members who make that program one of the
greatest successes ever mounted by the volunteers of any
organization bar none.
It's also a tribute to a man of quiet strength, a man who
understands the dedicated spirit of our members, a man whose
great dream is to help those members achieve their own dreams
of service to their fellow veterans and their families.
An Air Force veteran of the Vietnam War, this man dedicated
many years to our National Service Program. He knows service.
He knows the deepest meaning of the word, whether that service
is provided by a DAV NSO in a big city or a DAV member in a
small rural town. He is a man who worked hard over the past
three years to help rebuild the once shattered financial base
of the Disabled American Veterans, and, more importantly, to
rebuild the many services our employees and our members provide
to those whose own service has kept America free and
prosperous.
I know the many long hours that one quiet, earnest man
devoted to the success we saw in that film about our vans, and
many other DAV successes as well. I remember the steady hand of
his leadership. I remember his compassionate heart, a heart
that beats in unison with the compassionate hearts of our rank
and file members, his personal warmth, his intelligence, his
kindness, his inner strength. These are the gifts he brings to
life and these are the gifts he brings to the DAV.
Ladies and gentlemen, here for this report to the national
convention is our national adjutant, Art Wilson. [Applause]
Adjutant Wilson. Thank you, Commander. I'm humbled by that
introduction. Thank you, sir.
With your permission, before I get started, I'd like to
report to you a little bit on some of the activities of
yesterday, and it's kind of a postscript to the great opening
that we had. Before two hours had passed following the
conclusion of our opening session, I was in my room and the
phone rang, and it was Secretary Brown. And he was in his car
in Washington. He'd flown back with the President on Air Force
One.
And I want to let you know, and he asked me to tell you
that he apologizes for not staying last night as he usually
does, to greet so many of you. He had a death in his immediate
family, which he was aware of when he was here, but it was
post-haste that he retreat to Washington soon.
But he also wanted to tell me that he flew back to
Washington with the President, and the President was
emotionally moved by the reception and the warmth that you
extended to him in his visit here yesterday, and that's a
tribute to you. [Applause.]
Thank you again, Tom, for that nice introduction, and let
me take this opportunity to express to you my gratitude for the
kind remarks you made about our DAV staff in your report
yesterday.
Make no doubt about it, you were right on the mark when you
described the past year as one of extraordinary success. Each
member at this convention has now received a copy of DAV's
annual report, and I say to you the proof is in the pudding.
But those on the national staff know that we're not alone in
the responsibility for that success, not by a long shot.
Tom, your support has been and remains tremendous and is
very much appreciated.
We'd also like to thank all of your national officers; our
National Executive, Finance and Interim Committees; the great
team of our national, department and chapter service officers;
our hospital service coordinators; all of the selfless people
who gave so generously of their time as volunteers in our VAVS,
Transportation and other programs; everyone who takes part in
our Benefits Protection Team initiative; all of our chapter and
department leaders; and, of course, all of our wonderful DAV
And Auxiliary members throughout this great country.
What a team we are in the Disabled American Veterans! What
an incredible team! You know, we're a remarkable organization,
making remarkable contributions to the lives of disabled
veterans and their families. You just saw dramatic evidence of
that contribution in the film that we showed. What an
achievement, sending 141 Transportation Network vans on the
road in one single day.
Just think about what that means to the thousands upon
thousands who count on the DAV for a ride to that all-important
VA medical treatment. Yes, our organization, and your work in
our organization, have a deeply meaningful impact on the lives
of individual veterans in our society as a whole.
And I'd like to say a word of particular thanks to those
chapters and departments that raise the funds and spent so
generously from their accumulated assets in order to
participate in the purchase of those vans. This is exactly the
purpose for which DAV units raise money in the first place.
As we all know, this isn't an achievement of any single
part of the Disabled American Veterans. This great work grows
out of a lively, thriving partnership that includes each and
every one of us: Our national organization, our departments and
our chapters; both the DAV and its Auxiliary; our HSCs; our
volunteers; and our service officers, national, department and
chapter.
Take away any gear in that mighty engine of service,
particularly our service officers and those individual members
who supply nearly all of our volunteer force, and we're left
with an engine that will not run. But our engine of service is
running, it's running fast and it's running smoothly, because
we work together.
Our unity is the fuel for DAV's engine of service, our
source of power as we live up to our purpose as it is laid out
in the DAV Mission Statement, and I quote, ``building better
lives for all of our nation's disabled veterans and their
families.''
You know, now I have something really great to tell you
about, and you can't miss it. I didn't realize it was going to
be that big. Commander McMasters and I and the Department of
Colorado, and several other DAV leaders throughout the country,
thought we should reinforce that unity wherever possible, and
to do so in such a way that provides greater responsibility in
the stewardship of DAV resources.
To get that job done, we turned to a group of DAV leaders
who offer a deep and thorough understanding of what stewardship
means, the DAV National Service Foundation. You know, the DAV
was built on a simple but powerful concept: the idea of one
disabled veteran extending the hand of help to another. And
what the Department of Colorado and the National Service
Foundation are doing is extending that philosophy to a new
level.
We envision a vehicle by which DAV chapters and departments
can help other chapters and departments as we strive to provide
that promised DAV service. It's a means by which those who have
been blessed can be of greater help to those who have not.
There are some important factors driving the need to
develop a greater equity in the way DAV resources are used to
serve veterans, factors that are external to DAV. First,
there's the National Charities Information Bureau, the NCIB,
the most vigilant agency keeping an eye on our nation's
nonprofit organizations. Though NCIB is not a government
agency, it does not have plenty of clout. And their standards
call for charities to have net assets available for the
following fiscal year, usually not more than twice the current
year's expenses.
Now, I don't need to tell you that the DAV national
organization, with only eight months of operating expenses in
reserve, is well within the NCIB guidelines, but we all know
that some chapters and a few departments and some Auxiliary
units are not.
Is this matter of serious concern? You can bet on it! The
Internal Revenue Service is turning an ever sharper eye on the
nonprofit community. They're taking about regulation far
stricter than what we face today, and one of those very high-
profile targets is the accumulation of excess resources.
Why did the National Executive Committee promulgate
Regulation Number 9, which mirrors the NCIB's standard nearly
word for word? You don't have to look any further than what I
just shared with you about NCIB and IRS. The NEC didn't want
the reputation of the entire DAV soiled because some in the DAV
are hiding large sums of money. We don't need that type of
coverage on the network news.
Sure, these are three big sticks prompting the DAV to make
sure that all chapters and departments do what darn near all
chapters and departments are doing already, using their
resources responsibly to meet the needs of their nation's
veterans. If we have a stick, though, we should have a carrot,
and that's the thought behind the new Colorado Trust, which
will be a function of the DAV National Service Foundation.
The sweet thing about this carrot is the way it doubles the
money that chapters and departments invest in it. Every dollar
a chapter or department puts in the Colorado Trust will be
matched dollar for dollar by the national organization for up
to $3 million a year.
The program was named the Colorado Trust because the
leaders of the Department of Colorado come forward looking for
ways to help as many disabled veterans as possible. They, along
with the National Service Foundation, are providing the seed
money to get this project off the ground. And the Colorado
Trust name will remain the same until someone else matches the
generosity of the Department of Colorado.
This program will pinpoint monetary aid where it's most
needed to support the services of our chapters and departments
that they provide for disabled veterans and their families. The
fact is, this is a designated fund. Its monies can only be used
for service projects, and that policy will govern all grants.
But it will do much more than simply enhance the work of our
chapters and departments. I believe this new program will
reinvigorate the service posture of the entire DAV.
Because of its promise, we will move deeper into the
communities we serve and deeper into the lives of disabled
veterans and their families. And we'll do so in such a way that
is directed not so much by the national organization as by our
chapters and our departments.
And this is where the DAV National Service Foundation comes
into the picture. As you may know, the Foundation is a separate
nonprofit organization. It's not part of the DAV national
organization. The Colorado Trust will be a separate fund within
and administered by the Foundation, not the national
organization of DAV. The fund will not be mixed with the other
Service Foundation existing funds to which you have been
donating for years and will make further contributions
tomorrow.
The new program does not change or interfere with the
Foundation's current program in any way, nor will it affect the
way contributions are made to the Foundation's standard
programs. Rather, the Colorado Trust will be a separate
designated account. Grants from the Trust will be made to
chapters and departments upon the advice and recommendations of
a special Advisory Committee made up of representatives from
each of DAV's 21 national districts.
And you'll find the details of how the Colorado Trust will
work in a booklet that'll be distributed to you as you leave
the hall this morning. But let me emphasize one point right
now. There is a tremendous need out there among the veterans
our organization was created to serve, and all of us, every one
of us should keep in mind that thought today as we celebrate
our diamond anniversary 75th National Convention.
You know, the strings of the government's safety nets are
coming unraveled under the weight of federal spending cuts. The
support structures that disabled veterans have counted on for
years are being slowly whittled away. Not only are the various
components of the DAV family under pressure to spend down
excess financial resources. At the same time, the veterans we
serve are facing ever greater pressures in their daily lives.
So much needs to be done for veterans on the wards of our
hospitals. Needy veterans being cared for in their homes are
waiting for our knock on their door. The psychiatrically
disabled veteran who is living under America's bridges requires
something more from us than just a hand-out. And the need goes
on and on and on. We cannot, in good conscience, sit on our
resources while these veterans are waiting for our help, some
of them waiting in desperation. We cannot and must not deprive
these veterans when we have on hand the resources to help them.
You know, the national organization has made steady
financial progress since 1993. However, our financial status is
not as yet as strong as it should be. As I mentioned before,
the national organization ended 1995 with barely eight months'
reserve on hand. Well, I can tell you, if the NCIB or IRS are
going to look at the DAV reserves with a jaundiced eye, it
won't be the reserves of the national organization; it'll be
those of our chapters and our departments.
Yet facing the tremendous need that exists, the national
organization is ready to take a risk. We're ready to spend up
to $3 million annually from our reserves in order to set an
example to those chapters and departments whose large reserves
could bring embarrassment to the entire organization.
But let's concentrate on the position side of what we're
doing here. In the film that you just saw, the drive-away, we
saw a terrific example of what can happen when the national and
the department organizations and chapters work as a team.
Together, as a team, we put $3 million out there to do
something truly meaningful for disabled veterans who need VA
medical treatment. And that, my friends, is what I call
service. And together, as a team, we can also accomplish great
things well into the future through the Colorado Trust, and
doing so in such a way that's guided by our chapters and our
departments.
Following this convention, an announcement of this program
will go to all chapters and departments, and the grants program
will officially begin just as soon as possible. The promise of
the Colorado Trust is really, really exciting, and that's why
I'm excited now to invite to the podium the Department of
Colorado leadership. Department Commander Jimmie Snider,
Department Adjutant Mike Terry, Rudy Vargas, who's chairman of
the Board of Directors for the department, and Sam Vigil from
Chapter 7, would you please step forward, please. [Applause.]
Mr. Samuel Vigil. I'm Vigil from Murphy Borelli, Chapter
Number 7, Denver, Colorado. Given this golden opportunity at
the 75th Annual Convention, National Convention, I'm making a
donation to the National Service Foundation of Colorado Trust
from the chapter in Murphy Borelli, a small chapter with a big
heart, come up with enough money for $50,000 for the good
cause.
Thank you, Commander. [Applause.]
Adjutant Wilson. Department Commander Jimmie Snider.
Mr. Jimmie Snider. Art, at this time, I'd like to present
you with a check from the Department of Colorado Disabled
American Veterans also with the DAV eagle on it for you, a
check for $500,000. [Applause.]
Adjutant Wilson. For those of you in Chapter 7, they just
said they didn't know the department was going to beat them on
their amount. [Laughter.]
Thank you, gentlemen. Thank you so much. You have now made
the Colorado Trust a reality. Every member of the Department of
Colorado can take pride that their organization was the first
to step up to the challenge, and every single DAV member will
be in your debt.
Well, you know, Commander McMasters reminded me this
morning that I owe you a report on more than one project. I'm
going to keep this part of my remarks as brief as possible,
asking each one of you to take time to read the 1995 annual
report that was in your registration packet, and once you've
done so, I know that you'll be pleased with your national
organization.
You'll see that we've made mighty strides in rebuilding the
financial stability required for a sound DAV future. In that
respect, I can't say enough about the help I receive from our
entire staff, including Rick Patterson, executive director of
National Headquarters, and I also offer my congratulations and
gratitude to his staff: Inspector General Bob Gushee;
Communications Director Tom Keller; fund-raising directors Max
Hart and Jerry Lape; Comptroller Anita Blum; Charlie
Luttjohann, assistant executive director for purchasing and
membership; Greg Jackson, assistant executive director for
administration and personnel; Charitable Programs Director
Nancy O'Brien; Computer Service Center Manager, Dennis Painter;
and all of our employees at Cold Spring Headquarters in Cold
Spring, Kentucky.
You know, the 1995 annual report also spells out the
progress we made in service to disabled veterans and their
families, and for that I want to personally thank Washington
Headquarters Executive Director Dave Gorman; Service Director
Ken Wolfe and his staff, Jerry Steelman, Tony Baskerville and
Mike Walsh, and recently retired Darrel Babcock; Legislative
Director Rick Schultz and his staff, Rick Surratt and Joe
Violante and Len Gilmer, who now works in our Court of Veterans
Appeals staff; and, of course, National Employment Director Ron
Drach and Voluntary Services Director Bruce Nitsche.
It's a huge team effort, and they do wonderful, wonderful
work.
And all of our staffs, you know, are fortunate to have
great support teams, and these are the folks that make sure
that we get it right the first time. And my personal thanks go
to each and every one of those support personnel for everything
that they do. Our employees in Cincinnati and Washington are
doing a tremendous job, and they're doing it just for you.
And what can I say about our national service officers and
their staffs cross the country? What a dedicated group! These
are the men and women who represent the DAV where the rubber
meets the road in individual contacts with disabled veterans
and their families every day. And last year they secured
benefits for well in excess of 200,000 veterans, their
dependents and survivors, and yes, they did that in just one
single year. Our NSOs are the backbone of DAV's national
organization, make no mistake about it, and I thank each and
every one of them, as well as their clerical staffs.
And now another important announcement, and this one might
interest you even more. And I'm pleased to report to you that
the National Headquarters Fund-Raising Program for departments
is having another tremendous year. It's a little too early to
say, but I suspect we'll see an additional distribution from
this program at the end of this year, just like we did last
December, and I'm sure that's good news for sure.
Please encourage your members and your chapters to support
this program. It's a winner across the board. It's a winner for
all of us, particularly our departments, a winner for the
hundreds of thousands of veterans who count on the services
provided by those DAV departments.
You know, I had a chance to visit several of our State
organizations this spring as we progressed through our
department convention season. And that's an odyssey I always
enjoy, but this year the experience was particularly rewarding.
I see a great deal of unity growing inside the DAV, and I don't
mean to say that our departments and chapters are without
problems, but I do see us pulling together quite nicely under
the banner of a common purpose. And that's exciting, and I urge
every one of you to keep the momentum going, for we in the
national organization will keep that momentum going as well.
We had a great membership year, but we're not about to slow
down, because we can't. And the past year showed us that hard
work is needed, and what hard work can really do. But you know
and I know it's going to get tougher in the world of veterans'
affairs. We need to involve everyone and keep everyone
involved, and that's particularly true of the younger veterans
who are now coming into our organization from the Gulf War and
the other relatively recent conflicts.
Finally, I can't sit down till I mention the issue of
voting one more time. If there's one message that I want to
share with you between now and November, it's this: Vote! Vote!
If there's one message that I hope that you'll share with the
members of your chapters and departments when you go home from
this national convention it's vote! Vote!
On a more personal note, the cause of our organization, its
many programs and its voice before our government give real
meaning to my life. Of the many things that I have in common
with you, that commitment and the sense of fulfillment are the
most special to me. Next to the joy I derive from the life of
my own family, I take my greatest joy from sharing my life with
you, the leaders and the members of the Disabled American
Veterans.
Thank you so much, and thank you for your attention to my
message about the Colorado Trust, and thank for you for
allowing me to serve as your national adjutant. Thank you.
[Applause.]
Commander McMasters. Thank you very much, Mr. Wilson, for
that incredible report.
The Chair recognizes Mike 3.
Mrs. Lee Borgen. Delegate Lee Borgen, commander of Prescott
Chapter 16 in Arizona. As a proud member of District 18,
Chapter 16 wishes to donate at this time $100 to the Colorado
Trust. Permission to approach the podium.
Commander McMasters. We'll make a note of that.
At this time, the Chair will entertain a motion to accept
the adjutant's report.
Mr. Fusco. Comrade Commander, Anthony Fusco, Chapter 28,
Brooklyn, New York. I'd like to make a motion that we accept
Art's fine report and the hard work that Art does for this
department.
Commander McMasters. I recognize Mike 3 and accept the
motion. Is there support? Mike 1.
Mr. Frank Webb. Frank Webb, Chapter Number 9, Houston,
Texas, seconds the motion.
Commander McMasters. Thank you. We have a motion and
support. Are we ready for the question? Ready for the question?
All in favor, signify by Aye; opposed. It's carried.
[Applause.]
I would like to call on Charles D. Luttjohann, the
membership director, for his report.
Mr. Charles D. Luttjohann. Thank you. Thank you. Nice to
see you all today. You know, just two short years ago, the DAV
National Constitution and Bylaws were unanimously changed by
the delegates at the Chicago national convention, transforming
the DAV exclusively into a life membership organization.
Already our members have taken full advantage of that program
and have built the life membership count to 853,362 members,
full paid life members, I might add, by the end of the last
membership year. In addition, we have 229,076 members who are
in the process of paying their full paid life membership. That
comes to a total of 1,082,438 members, which is certainly a
very staggering number.
I think that's an exciting number, and it's exciting to me.
But what's really exciting is last year, when you consider only
27 departments made their national goal for membership, and
then this year every single department in the entire country
made their goal. Now, that's interesting to me. That's
incredible! [Applause.]
You know, when you look back at a few short years ago when
people were struggling just to get annual members to make their
goals, and now we're getting full paid life members, and we're
still making our goals. In addition to every single department
making goal, ten departments had every single chapter in their
entire department make goal, which is also incredible.
And I tell you what's neat about that. Let me give you
three of them here: California, Florida and New York--which are
the three largest departments in the country--every single one
of their chapters made goal. So let's hear it for them.
[Applause.]
I think that's clearly an example of what can happen when
Team DAV takes the field to play an essential role in securing
better lives for America's disabled veterans.
This is always the time each year when I have the
opportunity to announce the winners of the individual division
awards for overall membership recruitment, and if I could
enlist the commander's assistance on this, I'd appreciate it.
First I'd like to announce the winner of our Annual
Wainwright Award, and that particular award is one that
recognizes the department with the largest overall numeric gain
in members, and the winner this year was the Department of
California, and Larry Polzin is here to accept that award.
[Applause.] That increase was 5,914 over last year's
membership. By the way, the award recipients are eligible to
say something, if you'd like. I don't want to run them off.
Our next award is the Marx Award, which each year is given
to the department with the highest percentage over their goal,
and the recipient of that award this year is Alaska, and Jimmey
Mayo, the department commander, will pick up that award.
[Applause.]
I'm not going to have Jimmey move here very far, because I
don't want to wear him out today. The Department of Alaska has
gotten to be pretty much a regular up here over the last four
years, and the Division V winner this year for the highest
percentage over their goal within that division was obviously
Alaska, since they were the largest one in the entire country.
So in addition to the plaque, Jimmey Mayo, as the department
commander, wins the patented Master's membership jacket. We
even went to green this year to signify the Master's in
Membership. [Applause.]
Now, that's enough. He's sticking around wanting to get
more. That's enough.
The Division IV winner this year was the Department of Iowa
at 104.94 percent, and the recipient of that award will be
Robert Wonderlich, the department commander. Robert, could you
come up? [Applause.]
The Department of Iowa also had all their chapters make
goal, as did Alaska.
Division III, the Department of Maryland with 101.98
percent, and the recipient is Ray Chatary, department
commander. Let's hear it for them. [Applause.] It's amazing how
these fit every year, isn't it? [Laughter.] They're having to
turn in their old ones. [Laughter.]
Division II. Division II, the Department of Indiana. The
Department of Indiana, as many of you will know that follow
population summaries, didn't take a whole lot of time to make
their hundred percent. They were on it about the time we got
back from convention last year. The Department of Indiana has
dedicated themselves to being a leader in membership, and they
don't plan on giving up that leadership role.
This year they won the Division II, and it wasn't anything
real easy, because Arizona was right on their tail all the way
and did a great job. But Indiana finished with 102.88 percent,
and Ken Kersey is here, the department commander, to pick up
the jacket. [Applause.]
From Division I--Division I's always a battle. You've got
the largest departments in the country, and they take a great
deal of pride in who the winner is. And this year an old winner
came back, and we're real proud of that. The Department of
Florida, with 102.82 percent nudged out New York, and Harry
Warburton is here to pick up the award, the department
commander. [Applause.]
Mr. Harry Warburton. I will thank the Department of Florida
for the outstanding job. Thank you. [Applause.]
Mr. Luttjohann. All right. That concludes the division
winners.
The only award that we have to present here today goes out
to the top membership recruiter in the country. Anybody know
who that might be? This year I didn't even write him a letter.
I figured he'd show up here. He always does. For the last four
years, he just shows up on stage about this time. This year,
with kind of an astounding number of 1,195, my dear friend,
Prospero Sodano from New York, is again our top membership
recruiter. [Applause.]
We've just about concluded his wardrobe here. He's got
every color we can come up with. We're going to start going to
pants next year.
He doesn't want to say anything, but I'm telling you, that
guy is a dynamo. He works membership, he lives membership.
There was an article we did on him a while back, and his
recommendation to anybody who wants to recruit members is
follow up, follow up. And believe me, he does that. He's on
people, and he's a dynamo, and we really appreciate him.
Appreciate everything he does.
At this time, I want to finish this off, and I wouldn't
typically do this, but in my estimation, anybody that recruits
over a hundred members has really done a lot of work. And I
know we're on strict time schedule here today, and this takes a
little time, but it takes an awful lot of time to get a hundred
members, too.
So I want to recognize these individuals, and we can kind
of hold off until--yell if you want to, when I mention their
names. But these people, I believe, surely deserve some
recognition. First of all, Michael Mastrean, with 104 members;
Stan Lore with 104. Go ahead and yell. Just because I'm
talking, don't think you don't have to yell. Roger Bourgery
with 104; Clyde Dartey, 105; Don Cox, 108; Stan Hoy; 108;
Emmett Gore, 109; Bruce Kaplan, 112; Paul Newman, 114, makes
movies, recruits. The guy's incredible!
William Coley, 114; Ken Kursey, 127; Ray Chatary, 127;
Billy Braswell, 129; Robert Sinclair, 131; Kenny Kooyman, 147;
Gary Burns, 151; John Parker, 152; Larry Jatho, 167; Bob
Winterstien, 207; Raymond Hemple, 220; Dennis Gooden, 226; Coy
Hennis, 316. I always like to mention Coy. He's one of our
primary volunteers, one of the top volunteer recruiters
throughout the country, always does a great job.
Jim Perciavalle with 392; and Richard Ladnier at 410, who
was the runner up to Prospero this year.
So let's hear it for all them, and thank you all and keep
up the great work. And that concludes my report. [Applause.]
Commander McMasters. Thank you, Charlie, for that report.
I will now entertain a motion to accept the membership
report. Mike 3.
Mr. Richard Christopher. Richard Christopher, past
department commander, Massachusetts, accepts the report.
Commander McMasters. Okay. Is there support? Mike 1.
Mr. Manuel F. Lozano. Manny Lozano, Chapter 195, Pearland,
Texas. I second that motion.
Commander McMasters. Okay. We have the motion and the
second. Are your ready for the question? Ready for the
question? All in favor, signify by Aye; opposed. That's
carried.
At this time, I'll call on the National Finance Committee
chairman, Earl D. Walker, for his report. Dean.
NEC 20th District Earl D. Walker. National Commander
McMasters, national officers, distinguished guests and fellow
members of the Disabled American Veterans: Let me begin my
report by recognizing my fellow members of the National Finance
Committee: National Commander Tom McMasters; 12th District NEC
Dorothy Schilling of Wisconsin; 13th District NEC Glen Vogel of
Indiana; and 15th District NEC Francis McLaskey of Iowa.
As chairman of the National Finance Committee, I'm very
pleased to deliver my report regarding the financial position
of the national organization through the first six months of
1996. During the first six months of 1996, the DAV sent out
32.3 million pieces of fund-raising mail, and we expect to mail
61.2 million by the end of the year.
These mailings produced $40.2 million in gross revenue as
of 30 June. We believe gross revenues will reach $85.1 million
by year's end. That's a $2 million increase over 1995.
Our 1996 mailings included 4.3 million pieces sent to DAV
members under the Department Fund-Raising Program. The national
organization expects to raise sufficient funds to meet the $3.1
million distribution it is committed to make.
And though it is too early for promises, National expects
to net more than $3 per member that is promised to departments.
If this hope is realized, departments will see an additional
distribution this November, as they did at the end of last
year.
The success of the Department Fund-Raising Program reflects
very favorably upon our management and professional staff, our
rank-and-file employees, the National Finance Committee and,
most importantly, our members who give generously to the
success of this program and the services we provide.
Over the past three years, the management and volunteer
leadership of the DAV has been watching the Life Membership
Fund with an eye toward ensuring its long-term viability. As of
30 June, 1996, the Life Fund had a net reserve of $75 million.
This compares to $78.3 million at the same time last year. On
July 1, 1996, the Fund distributed $12.3 million to the
national organization, chapters and departments.
The robust performance of the stock market over the last
year and a half has strengthened the Fund's financial position.
Two years of decreased distributions from the Fund have also
lessened the burden on the Fund.
However, despite the Fund's excellent performance over the
past 18 months, it must still be closely monitored. Based on
reasonable projections and economic assumptions, we will still
have 385,000 members by the end of 2009, when the Fund's
balance will be depleted.
This is an improvement over what we heard in the Finance
Committee's report a year ago, but the situation still clearly
bears watching.
Before closing, let me thank the other NFC members,
National Adjutant Art Wilson, DAV's professional staff, and
you, Commander McMasters. I am grateful for the support you've
given me in my role as Finance Committee chairman. It has been
an honor to serve on this important committee, but it has been
an even greater pleasure to watch the DAV rebuild the financial
strength it needs as it marches forward in the future.
All of us understand that we are still traveling along the
road toward the level of financial stability we believe our
organization should enjoy. But the dark years are clearly in
our past. Today we can take comfort and courage from the rapid
progress we have made.
Commander McMasters, this concludes my report.
Commander McMasters. Thank you, Dean. Thank you for all the
hard work this year.
Mike 1.
Mr. Frank Webb. Commander, Frank Webb, delegate from
Chapter Number 9, Houston, Texas, makes a motion to accept his
report with gratitude and thanks.
Commander McMasters. There's a motion on the floor. Is
there support? Mike 3.
Mr. Christopher. Richard Christopher, past department
commander, Massachusetts, so seconds the motion.
Commander McMasters. Okay. The motion has been made and
supported. Are you ready for the question? Ready for the
question? All in favor, signify by Aye; opposed. It's carried.
[Applause.]
Commander McMasters. At this time, the Chair will entertain
a motion that the lists of delegates and alternates selected by
the 21 national districts and the Blind Veterans Chapter to
serve on convention committees be admitted into the record of
the proceedings of the convention. Is there someone to offer
that motion? Mike 3.
Mr. Alan W. Bowers. Alan Bowers, department commander,
moves action on that motion.
Commander McMasters. Mr. Bowers, could you please----
Mr. Bowers. Massachusetts Department commander.
Commander McMasters. Thank you. We have the motion. Is
there support? Mike 1.
Mr. Cecil Stevenson. Stevenson, past national commander,
seconds the motion.
Commander McMasters. Okay. We have the motion and support
that the lists of delegates and alternates selected by the 21
national districts and the Blind Veterans Chapter to serve on
convention committees be admitted into the record of the
proceedings of this convention. Ready for the question? Ready
for the question? All in favor, signify by Aye; opposed. It's
carried.
[Whereupon, the following are DAV National Convention
Committees:]
1996 NATIONAL CONVENTION, NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Name (Delegate and Chapter No. and
District alternate) State
------------------------------------------------------------------------
COMMITTEE ON CREDENTIALS
01.............................. Frank J. Drogo.... NEC Del District
56
(Alt)........................... Joseph A. Cosa.... Massachusetts 056
02.............................. Sal R. Tornatore.. NEC DEL District
60
(Alt)........................... Donald R. Warren.. New York 060
03.............................. Stanley J. Hoy.... New Hampshire 001
(Alt)........................... Gordon J. Forrett. Vermont 015
04.............................. Michael A. New Jersey 025
Christie.
(Alt)........................... Joseph S. Wingate. New Jersey 041
05.............................. Harding Byrd...... Pennsylvania 015
(Alt)........................... Neno Peconi....... Pennsylvania 053
06.............................. Raymond Chatary... Maryland 007
(Alt)........................... None.............. ..................
07.............................. Carolyn Virgil.... Florida 029
(Alt)........................... Michael Sorrentino Florida 135
08.............................. Jerry Worthington. Tennessee 003
(Alt)........................... Billy R. Johnson.. Tennessee 116
09.............................. Richard P. Geary.. North Carolina 016
(Alt)........................... Jimmie Fraizer.... Georgia 000
10.............................. Russell Spalding.. Michigan 020
(Alt)........................... Frank C. Krolczyk. Michigan 127
11.............................. William L. Moseley Ohio 057
(Alt)........................... Raymond H. Ohio 063
Hutchinson.
12.............................. Rosemarie R. Pitz. Wisconsin 017
(Alt)........................... Robert Jansky..... Illinois 022
13.............................. Jesse L. Wright... Kentucky 000
(Alt)........................... Harry S. Gaylord.. Kentucky 149
14.............................. Alice J. Faulstich Minnesota 001
(Alt)........................... William L. Minnesota 001
Faulstich.
15.............................. Shirley R. Turner. Missouri 002
(Alt)........................... Colon J. Busby.... Iowa 060
16.............................. Patrick J. Carroll California 012
(Alt)........................... Donald W. Stephen. California 144
17.............................. Kenneth D. Harden. New Mexico 003
(Alt)........................... John L. Richard... New Mexico 003
18.............................. Robert C. Freitas. Hawaii 000
(Alt)........................... Daniel R. Frias... Hawaii 006
19.............................. Virgil A. Barnett. Idaho 022
(Alt)........................... Robert W. Vietz... Washington 000
20.............................. Roland A. Paquette Texas 057
(Alt)........................... Derrell G. Neal... Texas 175
21.............................. Robert D. Cohoon.. Oklahoma 074
(Alt)........................... Thomas J. Davis, Oklahoma 000
Jr.
Blind Vets Chapter.............. Robert H. Dawson.. National Blind
Jarrett C. Quigley National Blind
Advisor: Charles D. Luttjohann.
COMMITTEE ON GENERAL RESOLUTIONS AND MEMBERSHIP
01.............................. James H. Tanner... Massachusetts 010
(Alt)........................... Edward R. Finn.... Massachusetts 010
02.............................. Vincent A. New York 027
Chiovarelli.
(Alt)........................... Ronald D. Tears... New York 015
03.............................. Raymond V. New Hampshire 000
Ritchotte.
(Alt)........................... Ronald Nowe....... New Hampshire 003
04.............................. Kenneth A. New Jersey 042
Grunewald.
(Alt)........................... Redell G. Lewis... Connecticut 009
05.............................. Wilbert O'Neill... Pennsylvania 061
(Alt)........................... Constance R. Pennsylvania 057
Manocha.
06.............................. Ronald L. Smith... Maryland 023
(Alt)........................... Robert V. Richard. District of
Columbia
07.............................. James E. Sursely.. Florida 016
(Alt)........................... David Clayman..... Florida 152
08.............................. Jack W. Redell.... Louisiana 020
(Alt)........................... Charles Beaton.... Louisiana 020
09.............................. Barry I. Souders.. North Carolina 005
(Alt)........................... Coy W. Hennis..... North Carolina 020
10.............................. John F. McCullough Michigan 003
(Alt)........................... Billie-Nita Clark. Michigan 093
11.............................. Thomas K. Keller.. Ohio 103
(Alt)........................... David C. Ohio 036
Uetterling.
12.............................. Philip C. Kreisa.. Wisconsin 019
(Alt)........................... Thomas Pappas..... Illinois 042
13.............................. Paul F. Wiggins... Kentucky 019
(Alt)........................... John F. Houston... Indiana 019
14.............................. Harry F. Vandemore South Dakota 001
(Alt)........................... Emmett P. Botten.. Minnesota 001
15.............................. Everett Wilson.... Nebraska 000
(Alt)........................... Dennis L. Young... Kansas 001
16.............................. George E. Morey... California 059
(Alt)........................... Howard Sites...... California 007
17.............................. Benjamin Palomino. Colorado 006
(Alt)........................... Paul W. Jackson... Colorado 007
18.............................. Charles N. Baker.. Nevada 011
(Alt)........................... Marco A. Espinosa. Arizona 016
19.............................. David Reeves...... Oregon 004
(Alt)........................... Guillermo J. Pajo. Washington 035
20.............................. Billy E. Wright... Texas 219
(Alt)........................... Barie G. Poore.... Texas 001
21.............................. Harold D. Pinney.. Oklahoma 003
(Alt)........................... Robert F. Klee.... Arkansas 001
Blind Vets Chapter.............. Robert J. Burns... National Blind
Buddy Spivey...... National Blind
Advisors: Jerry P. Steelman and Rick Surratt.
COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION AND VETERANS RIGHTS
01.............................. Robert C. Sinclair Massachusetts 114
(Alt)........................... Michael M. Maloof. Massachusetts 002
02.............................. Donald A. Sioss... Past Natl
Commander
(Alt)........................... William Novak..... New York 005
03.............................. Harry Mannine..... Vermont 000
(Alt)........................... Gary P. Burns..... Maine 001
04.............................. Alfred Faticoni... Connecticut 008
(Alt)........................... Charles A. Kashner Delaware 000
05.............................. John E. Ogozaly... Pennsylvania 098
(Alt)........................... Calvin R. Hall.... Pennsylvania 064
06.............................. Hugh M. Ferguson.. Maryland 000
(Alt)........................... None.............. ..................
07.............................. Richard E. Giese.. Florida 028
(Alt)........................... Ernest H. Hartman. Florida 094
08.............................. Lawrence L. Morris Tennessee 003
(Alt)........................... Archbishop Forbes. Tennessee 003
09.............................. Phillip J. Seep... North Carolina 016
(Alt)........................... Torrance L. Adcock South Carolina 030
10.............................. Harold W. La Michigan 045
Ponsie.
(Alt)........................... Eric D. Berryman.. Michigan 013
11.............................. Eural E. Johnson.. Ohio 035
(Alt)........................... Richard M. Ohio 098
Stoughton.
12.............................. Desmond Fortner... Illinois 024
(Alt)........................... Paul H. Marheine.. Wisconsin 002
13.............................. Joseph S. Carroll. Indiana 052
(Alt)........................... Harry G. Erway.... Kentucky 155
14.............................. Robert J. Connor.. Minnesota 002
(Alt)........................... Henry H. Sadler... Minnesota 010
15.............................. Prezell Frazier... Iowa 020
(Alt)........................... Roger B. Drucker.. Nebraska 007
16.............................. Don J. Pouliot.... California 002
(Alt)........................... Astro A. Tortolano California 011
17.............................. William Karr...... Colorado 007
(Alt)........................... Caroline D. Mason. Colorado 021
18.............................. Sharon A. Borgen.. Arizona 016
(Alt)........................... Fred F. Narcaroti. Arizona 016
19.............................. Charles W. Chapin. Idaho 000
(Alt)........................... Dale P. Westlake.. Washington 045
20.............................. James T. Smith.... Texas 009
(Alt)........................... Claude J. Boggs... Texas 128
21.............................. Lloyd G. McCool... Arkansas 056
(Alt)........................... Bob Baley......... Arkansas 000
Blind Vets Chapter.............. .................. National Blind
Advisors: Thomas L. Tomlinson and Richard F.
Schultz.
COMMITTEE ON CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS
01.............................. Thomas J. Daley... Massachusetts 049
(Alt)........................... Francis J. Daly... Massachusetts 022
02.............................. Sally Wilson...... New York 126
(Alt)........................... Alfred W. Nowak... New York 120
03.............................. Kenneth J. Kooyman Rhode Island 012
(Alt)........................... Paul A. Wekenmann. Rhode Island 009
04.............................. Charles A. Carroll New Jersey 000
(Alt)........................... James H. Fox...... New Jersey 024
05.............................. Daniel R. Parker.. Pennsylvania 058
(Alt)........................... Joseph H. Buhl.... Pennsylvania 053
06.............................. David L. Virginia 015
Tannenbaum.
(Alt)........................... German Bravo-Perez Puerto Rico 001
07.............................. John C. McCarthy.. Florida 004
(Alt)........................... Jimmy B. Meeks.... Florida 028
08.............................. Hollis O. Bridges. Alabama 026
(Alt)........................... Raymond E. Webb... Alabama 013
09.............................. Wallace E. Tyson.. North Carolina 046
(Alt)........................... David Nesbitt..... South Carolina 013
10.............................. Bonnie Maile...... Michigan 001
(Alt)........................... Donald R. Crull... Michigan 001
11.............................. Jack F. Feighner.. Ohio 001
(Alt)........................... Paul A. Hughes.... Ohio 117
12.............................. Clyde E. Dartey... Wisconsin 019
(Alt)........................... James J. Ferrara.. Illinois 055
13.............................. Kenneth C. Kersey. Indiana 000
(Alt)........................... Wallace E. Haskins Kentucky 155
14.............................. Wayne W. Blue..... Minnesota 001
(Alt)........................... Jackie A. Owen.... Minnesota 022
15.............................. Jim Edge.......... Kansas 000
(Alt)........................... Jerry Bay......... Missouri 067
16.............................. Kenneth G. Past Natl
Musselmann. Commander
(Alt)........................... Robert Salisbury.. California 094
17.............................. Leon J. Kerstner.. Colorado 026
(Alt)........................... Dianah Nelson..... Wyoming 000
18.............................. Chas. D. Vincent.. Arizona 001
(Alt)........................... Robert E. McCallum Arizona 001
19.............................. Anne M. Ruppert... Alaska 002
(Alt)........................... Jon C. Price...... Washington 005
20.............................. William A. Bone... NEC Del District
57
(Alt)........................... Harry I. Kabler... Texas 057
21.............................. Donald M. Sampson. Oklahoma 005
(Alt)........................... Clark H. Rogers... Oklahoma 005
Blind Vets Chapter.............. David May......... National Blind
Dan Holden........ National Blind
Advisors: Fred Bristol and Edward G. Galian.
COMMITTEE ON FINANCE AND DUES
01.............................. Arthur S. Cushing. Massachusetts 017
(Alt)........................... Arthur F. Kingsley Massachusetts 115
02.............................. David H. Wilson... New York 000
(Alt)........................... Michael R. Marrone New York 082
03.............................. Edward S. New Hampshire 001
Lastowski.
(Alt)........................... Richard L. Vermont 000
Decoteau.
04.............................. Richard J. Connecticut 000
Hennesey.
(Alt)........................... Herbert G. Henn... New Jersey 032
05.............................. Charles M. Turik.. Pennsylvania 067
(Alt)........................... Dwayne R. Deist... Pennsylvania 000
06.............................. William D. Wiggins National Officer
(Alt)........................... George W. Parrish. District of
Columbia
07.............................. Charles E. Heiney. Florida 125
(Alt)........................... Walter R. Baker... Florida 072
08.............................. John A. Smith..... Mississippi 011
(Alt)........................... James V. Mars..... Mississippi 011
09.............................. Gilbert Grier..... Georgia 018
(Alt)........................... Billy J. Nix...... Georgia 001
10.............................. David E. Smith.... Michigan 003
(Alt)........................... Dennis N. Emery... Michigan 129
11.............................. Gary R. Akers..... Ohio 000
(Alt)........................... Harlan F. Plummer. Ohio 071
12.............................. George M. Isdale.. Illinois 000
(Alt)........................... Werner J. Schalow. Wisconsin 005
13.............................. Fred A. Sutton.... Indiana 009
(Alt)........................... Glen E. Vogel..... Indiana 045
14.............................. Dick A. Haan...... Minnesota 001
(Alt)........................... Jerome G. Krejci.. North Dakota 002
15.............................. Walter Head....... Missouri 000
(Alt)........................... Tom Morrissey..... Nebraska 007
16.............................. Joel C. Devenish.. California 043
(Alt)........................... Lewis D. Flanigan. California 085
17.............................. Hector D. Salgado. New Mexico 033
(Alt)........................... Albert C. Derby... Colorado 001
18.............................. William D. Nevada 013
Brzezinski.
(Alt)........................... Henry A. Redding.. Nevada 034
19.............................. Irene L. Martin... Washington 045
(Alt)........................... Harold E. Wiley... Washington 046
20.............................. Eugene T. Texas 012
Arrendale.
(Alt)........................... Raymond A. Texas 010
Rapisand.
21.............................. Frank E. Nye...... Oklahoma 049
(Alt)........................... Chesley Rutledge.. Oklahoma 029
Blind Vets Chapter.............. .................. National Blind
Advisors: E. Dean Walker and Richard E. Patterson.
COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT
01.............................. Vincent P. Reed... Massachusetts 025
(Alt)........................... John P. Rogers.... Massachusetts 115
02.............................. Anthony Fusco..... New York 000
(Alt)........................... Alvin L. Burks.... New York 076
03.............................. Ronald W. Reilly.. New Hampshire 004
(Alt)........................... Roger A. Bourgery. Vermont 003
04.............................. Salvatore Lo Sauro New Jersey
(Alt)........................... Justus Kehne...... Delaware 008
05.............................. M. Rae White...... Pennsylvania 086
(Alt)........................... Joseph J. Baldwin. Pennsylvania 098
06.............................. Juan Mandes-Pagan. Puerto Rico 001
(Alt)........................... Phillip W. Turpin. Virginia 003
07.............................. Albert Sorrentino. Florida 030
(Alt)........................... Charles C. Perkins Florida 040
08.............................. James M. Cox...... Louisiana 030
(Alt)........................... Louis R. Ketchum.. Louisiana 030
09.............................. Ernest H. Stroud.. South Carolina 014
(Alt)........................... Hugh A. Mathis.... South Carolina 005
10.............................. John F. McComb.... Michigan 013
(Alt)........................... Ben Benzing....... Michigan 018
11.............................. Joseph K. Shepherd Ohio 131
(Alt)........................... David R. Helton... Ohio 115
12.............................. James R. Harris... Illinois 047
(Alt)........................... Joseph F. Guido... Wisconsin 005
13.............................. William A. Kentucky 019
Reinhart.
(Alt)........................... Lowell H. Spalding Indiana 019
14.............................. Chester D. Minnesota 010
Hrdlicka.
(Alt)........................... Richard D. Ryan... North Dakota 000
15.............................. Clifford M. Kansas 001
Piersee.
(Alt)........................... George Nickolas... Iowa 002
16.............................. John F. McCoy..... California 019
(Alt)........................... Ruben R. Trejo.... California 039
17.............................. Veda M. Jones..... Utah 000
(Alt)........................... Donald C. Lougee.. Colorado 022
18.............................. Thomas Caenen..... Nevada 000
(Alt)........................... David G. Rock..... Arizona 025
19.............................. Jon C. Price...... Washington 005
(Alt)........................... Michael C. Kiser.. Washington 005
20.............................. Armando C. Texas 014
Albarran.
(Alt)........................... Paul S. Hilliard.. Texas 003
21.............................. Jimmie S. Foster.. Oklahoma 032
(Alt)........................... Donald R. Cox..... Arkansas 057
Blind Vets Chapter.............. .................. National Blind
Advisors: Mike Godich, Jr. and Ronald W. Drach.
COMMITTEE ON HOSPITAL AND VOLUNTARY SERVICES
01.............................. Richard Stentiford Massachusetts 080
(Alt)........................... Edmund Corey...... Massachusetts 032
02.............................. Bernard L. New York 185
Robidoux.
(Alt)........................... Claude A. Nelson.. New York 047
03.............................. Harold F. Smith... Maine 000
(Alt)........................... Bruce E. Kaplan... Maine 006
04.............................. Maurice E. Aims... Connecticut 008
(Alt)........................... Louis B. New Jersey 003
Washington.
05.............................. George I. Ford.... Pennsylvania 014
(Alt)........................... Eugene Davis...... Pennsylvania 015
06.............................. Thomas C. Johns... Maryland 007
(Alt)........................... Sloan H. Hoopes... Virginia 003
07.............................. Robert F. Melville Florida 085
(Alt)........................... Elmer L. West..... Florida 091
08.............................. Francis L. Weaver. Mississippi 011
(Alt)........................... Gerald E. Mississippi 011
Humphries.
09.............................. William L. Coward. Georgia 027
(Alt)........................... Louis Bodgan...... South Carolina 067
10.............................. Margherita Dupras. Michigan 022
(Alt)........................... Roy A. Redmond.... Michigan 002
11.............................. Harry E. Duffala.. Ohio 116
(Alt)........................... Jesse R. Stefanics Ohio 009
12.............................. Loran I. Bumpus... Illinois 028
(Alt)........................... Vernon E. Wisconsin 001
Schilling.
13.............................. Michael A. Indiana 052
Whelihan.
(Alt)........................... Harold L. Soult... Indiana 052
14.............................. Bruce T. Tuman.... Minnesota 009
(Alt)........................... Delbert Nelson.... Minnesota 001
15.............................. Douglas E. Meeks.. Nebraska 000
(Alt)........................... Albert E. Miller.. Missouri 001
16.............................. Henry A. Veillette California 073
(Alt)........................... James C. Jenkins.. California 036
17.............................. John O. Ognie..... Colorado 007
(Alt)........................... None.............. ..................
18.............................. Donald F. Schmitt. Arizona 016
(Alt)........................... William W. Wright. Arizona 020
19.............................. Harold Stevens.... Idaho 000
(Alt)........................... Mallory A. Hansen. Oregon 028
20.............................. Samuel Berman..... Texas 009
(Alt)........................... Frank L. Webb..... Texas 009
21.............................. Frances Liotta.... Oklahoma 032
(Alt)........................... Robert W. Ellis... Arkansas 007
Blind Vets Chapter.............. .................. National Blind
Advisors: Henry Veillette and Norman B. Hartnett.
COMMITTEE ON NOMINATION OF NATIONAL OFFICERS
01.............................. Alan W. Bowers.... Massachusetts 000
(Alt)........................... Thomas J. Daley... Massachusetts 049
02.............................. Anthony L. Mirando New York 145
(Alt)........................... Prospero Sodano... New York 118
03.............................. Joseph D. Maine 000
MacDonald.
(Alt)........................... Burton E. Packard. New Hampshire 001
04.............................. Joseph Trulio..... New Jersey 000
(Alt)........................... John A. Higgins... New Jersey 073
05.............................. Jim Wyatt......... Pennsylvania 115
(Alt)........................... William J. Pennsylvania 057
Stockell.
06.............................. Joseph Reeves..... Virginia 041
(Alt)........................... James Stewart..... Maryland 007
07.............................. Dennis A. Joyner.. Florida 104
(Alt)........................... Albert H. Linden.. Florida 090
08.............................. Wendell Davis..... Alabama
(Alt)........................... Thurston Mosely... Alabama 000
09.............................. James R. Murray... North Carolina 012
(Alt)........................... Michael J. South Carolina 051
Truscello.
10.............................. Leo J. Le Roux.... Michigan 114
(Alt)........................... Lowell G. McKeehan NEC Alt District
10
11.............................. Andrew J. Offutt.. Ohio 103
(Alt)........................... Samuel E. Lanza... Ohio 011
12.............................. Ken Kuehnl........ Wisconsin 000
(Alt)........................... Ted Buck.......... Illinois 000
13.............................. Franklin D. Indiana 027
Littleton.
(Alt)........................... James S. Powers... Indiana 000
14.............................. Gene A. Murphy.... Past Natl
Commander
(Alt)........................... Joseph M. North Dakota 002
Litzinger.
15.............................. Francis E. NEC Del District
McLaskey. 15
(Alt)........................... Franklin C. NEC Alt District
Bergguist. 15
16.............................. Michael W. California 001
Tempesta.
(Alt)........................... Clyde Maddox...... California 028
17.............................. Rudolph R. Vargas. Colorado 022
(Alt)........................... Michael H. Terry.. Colorado 007
18.............................. Lester L. Leichty. Arizona 018
(Alt)........................... Robert T. Fletcher Arizona 020
19.............................. Jimmey W. Mayo.... Alaska 000
(Alt)........................... Frank Puleo....... Washington 045
20.............................. Bruce W. Burgess.. Texas 128
(Alt)........................... Andrew Flemming... Texas 009
21.............................. Irvin D. Eddy..... Oklahoma 032
(Alt)........................... Cecil Stevenson... Arkansas 026
Blind Vets Chapter.............. Floyd O. Britting. National Blind
Advisors: Gene A. Murphy and William E. Leach.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Commander McMasters. I'm now going to call on the chairman
of the Hospital and Voluntary Services Convention Committee for
his report. Mr. Tom Johns.
Mr. Thomas C. Johns. Thank you, Commander. Good morning.
Thank you, Commander. Comrade Commander and delegates: The
National Convention Committee on Hospital and Voluntary
Services was called to order for its first business session on
July 29th, 1996 by the committee advisors, Norman B. Gabby
Hartnett and Hank Veillette. The first order of business was
the election of a convention committee chairman. Thomas C.
Johns was nominated for chairman. There being no further
nominations, nominations were closed, and Thomas C. Johns was
elected chairman.
The next order of business was the nomination and election
of the secretary. Hank Veillette was nominated and elected as
secretary of the committee.
The committee then proceeded to review the resolutions
submitted, and I will now report to you the resolutions
recommended for adoption by this national convention. For the
purpose of saving time, I will read only the number and the
RESOLVED portions of those resolutions.
Number 19, that the Disabled American Veterans in
department convention assembled in Pierre, South Dakota, May 9
to 11, 1996, seek the enactment of adequate appropriations for
the funding of the Department of Veterans Affairs medical care
program and vigorously oppose any further reduction DVA health
care personnel.
Number 61, that the national legislative director of the
Disabled American Veterans oppose legislation that would
require disabled retired veterans or their dependents to pay a
user fee or charge to use military medical clinics and other
outpatients facilities and to appear before the Armed Services
Committees of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives or
any committee which could implement a user's fee for the use of
military or DVA outpatient medical clinics by disabled retired
service personnel.
Number 94, that the Disabled American Veterans in District
4 convention assembled in Houston, Texas, March 9 and 10, 1996,
seeks the enactment of legislation mandating the provisions of
health care services, inclusive of gender-specific services by
VA to eligible women veterans to the same degree and extent
that services are provided to eligible male veterans, inclusive
of counseling and/or psychological services incident to sexual
violence; and be it further resolved that we urge VA to
strictly adhere to stated policies regarding privacy issues
relating to the treatment of women veterans and to pro-actively
seek innovative methods to ensure women veterans receive the
treatment they so rightfully deserve.
Number 97. The regional VA hospital administrator issue a
directive allowing patients to hand-carry their medical records
in security bags which would allow the records to be at the
scheduled clinics on time. The directive should also apply to
any outpatient clinic that is located away from the main
medical facility.
Number 111, that the Disabled American Veterans at National
Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 27 to
August 1, vigorously support legislation that would require
stricter adherent to the Department of Veterans Affairs in
medical facilities to stated policies providing separate and
distinct female in-patient rooms, bathroom facilities; to
provide consistently adequate gender-appropriate treatment and
facilities for the Department of Veterans Affairs health care
system.
Number 168, that the Department of Massachusetts Disabled
American Veterans assembled in state convention at Fitchburg,
Massachusetts, June 1996, supports legislation to allow medical
examinations and treatment for Persian Gulf veterans who are
believed to be suffering from a disease which may be related to
service in the Gulf War, and that such entitlement should be
extended until definitive answers can be established concerning
the Gulf-War related illnesses.
Number 253, that the DAV National Convention assembled in
New Orleans, Louisiana supports legislation in Congress that
would authorize an increase in the charitable use standard
mileage rate deduction to 16 cents per mile, which would
reinstate the 1984 relationship with the business use standard
mileage rate deduction; and be it further resolved that such
legislation would authorize that the charitable use standard
mileage rate deduction be permanently fixed to a fair
percentage of the business use standard mileage rate deduction.
Number 266, that the DAV National Convention continue to
supports the established mission and objectives of the state
veterans homes programs, and that the VA pay each state a per
diem rate adequate for the continuum of providing quality care;
and that it be further resolved that the program receives
adequate funding for the construction, expansion, remodeling or
acquisition of state veterans home facilities.
Number 267, that the DAV National Convention in New
Orleans, Louisiana vigorously opposes any national health
insurance plan which proposes to incorporate the VA hospital
system and has the effect the diminishing the VA's role of
being the federal entity with primary responsibility for
providing health care services to disabled veterans.
Number 268, DAV National Convention in New Orleans opposes
any legislation that would require the VA to recover third-
party payments for the care and treatment of veterans's
service-connected disabilities.
Number 269. The convention supports the enactment of
legislation which would promote a broader and greater degree of
sharing between the health care systems of the Department of
Veterans Affairs and of the Department of Defense.
Number 270, that the DAV Convention in New Orleans,
Louisiana supports legislation guaranteeing access and a full
continuum of care with guaranteed funding, maintaining VA as
the primary responsible entity for the delivery of health care
to eligible veterans and establishing an entitlement to VA
health care services for a clearly defined category of
veterans.
Number 271, that the convention in New Orleans, Louisiana
vigorously oppose a co-payment for service-connected disabled
veterans in order to receive VA medications.
Number 272, that the convention in New Orleans supports the
enactment of legislation to amend Section 1728(a)(2) of Title
38, U.S. Code providing for the consideration of reimbursement
of certain medical expenses incurred by former prisoners of
war.
Number 273. The DAV Convention in New Orleans supports the
enactment of legislation requiring VA to assume the total
financial liability of such care for service-connected disabled
veterans in the same manner and using the same criteria that
outpatient services are furnished under Section 212, Title 38,
U.S. Code.
And I know you're ready for this, the last one, Number 274.
DAV Convention in New Orleans, Louisiana go on record strongly
recommending that each facility, although integrated, be
permitted to retain their separate local VAVS Committees and
volunteers with separate records and award ceremonies as at
present prior to the integration.
I would like to thank all the members of the committee for
their hard work. We got through the meeting fairly well this
morning, got a lot of work done.
Comrade Commander, this completes the report of the
Committee on Hospital and Voluntary Services, and I move the
adoption of these resolutions and that the committee be
discharged with the thanks of the national convention.
[The above-mentioned resolutions follow:]
RESOLUTION NO. 019--LEGISLATIVE
supporting adequate funding for the va health care program including
staffing
WHEREAS, underfunding of the VA Medical Care Program continues to
hamper the VA's ability to provide timely, complete and quality health
care to veterans; and
WHEREAS, the Office of Management and Budget continues to seek
reductions in the number of VA health care personnel; and
WHEREAS, the results of fewer personnel equates to a reduced number
of available and operating hospital beds for the treatment of eligible
veterans; and
WHEREAS, adequate funds should be provided to maintain and improve
medical care for all of America's wartime disabled veterans in order to
ensure that they will continue to receive medical care second to none;
NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, seeks the enactment of adequate appropriations for the funding
of the VA Medical Care program and vigorously opposes any further
reduction in VA health Care personnel.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 061--LEGISLATIVE
opposing the imposition of user fees for outpatient medical care at
military medical facilities
WHEREAS, military retirees have earned the right, by virtue of
service to this Nation, to utilize military medical facilities to meet
their medical care needs and those of their dependents; and
WHEREAS, this earned benefit has been established by the Congress
through the enactment of legislation entitling military retirees and
their dependents to utilize military medical facilities to meet their
medical care needs; and
WHEREAS, the charging of a user's fee would adversely impact upon
military retirees' financial and medical well-being; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, opposes any proposal that will require military retirees, or
their dependents, to be charged a user's fee in order to obtain
outpatient medical services at military medical facilities.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 094--LEGISLATIVE
supporting adequate medical services and benefits for women veterans
WHEREAS, women veterans accounted for 4.3 percent of the total
veteran population in 1990, by the year 2000 women will represent 5.3
percent of all veterans, and by 2040 they will make up about 11 percent
of the total veteran population; and
WHEREAS, women have always provided meaningful contributions to our
armed services over the course of our Nation's history, most recently
exemplified by the 33,000 women who served honorably in Southwest Asia
performing combat and combat support functions; and
WHEREAS, a recent General Accounting Office (GAO) report found that
problems continue to confront women veterans when attempting to gain
access to VA health care services, and VA remains unable to fully
ensure privacy for women veterans; and
WHEREAS, many women seeking VA health care find services
unavailable or personnel unprepared to understand or deal with their
specific needs; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, seeks enactment of legislation mandating the provision of
health care services, inclusive of gender-specific services, by VA to
eligible women veterans to the same degree and extent that services are
provided to eligible male veterans, inclusive of counseling and/or
psychological services incident to sexual violence, AND
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we urge VA to strictly adhere to stated
policies regarding privacy issues relating to the treatment of women
veterans and to proactively seek innovative methods to ensure women
veterans receive the treatment they so rightly deserve.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 097--ADMINISTRATIVE
to allow veterans to hand carry their medical records to appointments
WHEREAS, veterans' medical records are presently transferred by the
medical records section to clinics for veterans's appointments; and
WHEREAS, records may not be timely transferred between clinics in
instances of multiple appointments; and
WHEREAS, this results in inefficiency and inconvenience for
physicians; and
WHEREAS, the present procedure may cause delays for the veteran
whose record is unavailable and subsequently scheduled veterans; and
WHEREAS, allowing veterans to transport their own medical files for
appointments would alleviate many problems; NOW
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, urges the Veterans Health Administration of VA to issue a
directive allowing patients to hand carry their medical records,
appropriately secured, to clinic appointments.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 111--ADMINISTRATIVE
to provide consistently adequate gender-appropriate treatment and
facilities by the department of veterans affairs health care system
WHEREAS, current Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) policies
requires gender-oriented facilities for inpatient and outpatient
treatment at VA medical facilities; and
WHEREAS, many of these facilities do not, in fact, provide
appropriate and distinct gender-specific inpatient rooms, bathroom,
treatment rooms and outpatient chaperoning for the privacy and dignity
of female veteran patients; and
WHEREAS, we believe the VA needs to provide consistent guidance and
enforcement of their stated gender-sensitive policies; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, vigorously supports strict adherence by each VA medical
facility to stated policies providing separate and distinct female
inpatient rooms, bathroom facilities, adequate and gender-appropriate
treatment room equipment, and inpatient/outpatient female attendants
during examining procedures to assure privacy and dignity to female
veteran patients.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 168--ADMINISTRATIVE
medical screening and treatment for persian gulf war veterans
WHEREAS, American Armed Forces personnel were exposed to myriad
environmental hazards in the Southwest Asia theater of operations
during the Persian Gulf War; and
WHEREAS, the full nature, extent, and consequences of this exposure
is yet unknown; and
WHEREAS, many Persian Gulf War veterans suffer from poorly
understood, undiagnosed illnesses with a wide array of symptoms,
commonly referred to as Persian Gulf Syndrome; and
WHEREAS, the unique nature of these medical problems warrants
special consideration and liberal authority for examinations,
diagnoses, and treatment; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports the provision of continuing specialized examinations
and medical treatment procedures for Persian Gulf War veterans.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 253--LEGISLATIVE
in support of an increase in the standard mileage rate deduction for
use of private automobile in charitable activities
WHEREAS, the DAV, on a national and local level, administers many
worthwhile programs for veterans and their families utilizing volunteer
services; and
WHEREAS, current law authorizes unreimbursed, out-of-pocket
expenses incurred by volunteers who render services to certain
charitable organizations, such as the DAV, to be deducted for federal
income tax purposes; and
WHEREAS, when a volunteer operates an automobile in providing such
services, the volunteer may deduct actual, out-of-pocket expenses (gas,
oil, tolls, parking fees) or use a standard mileage rate deduction
(plus tolls, parking fees); and
WHEREAS, the current charitable use standard mileage rate
deduction, set in 1984, is fixed at $0.12 per mile; and
WHEREAS, this rate has not kept pace with the increased costs of
operating an automobile, nor has it maintained its 1984 relationship
with the standard mileage rate deduction for business purposes; and
WHEREAS, an increase in the charitable standard mileage rate
deduction is necessary in the interest of fairness and, more
importantly, in the promotion of volunteerism and charitable services;
NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation in the Congress that would authorize an
increase in the charitable use, standard mileage rate deduction to
$0.16 per mile, which would reinstate the 1984 relationship with the
business use, standard mileage rate deduction; AND
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that such legislation would authorize that
the charitable use, standard mileage rate deduction be permanently
fixed to a fair percentage of the business use, standard mileage rate
deduction.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 266--LEGISLATIVE
supporting the state veterans' home program
WHEREAS, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) projects the
number of veterans over the age of 65 will increase dramatically,
peaking at 8.9 million by the year 1999; and
WHEREAS, state veterans' homes are able to offer and provide
quality nursing home, long-term, domiciliary, and hospital care to
veterans in a cost-effective manner; and
WHEREAS, there will be an ever-increasing number of veterans
seeking the type of assistance offered by state veterans' homes due to
advancing age and associated medical conditions; and
WHEREAS, most planning, alterations and renovations for
construction, expansion and/or modernization are predicated upon the
availability of VA grant funds; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, continues to support the established mission and objectives of
the State Veterans' Homes Program and that VA pay each state a per diem
rate adequate for the continuation of providing quality care; AND
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the program receive adequate funding
for the construction, expansion, remodeling, or acquisition of state
veteran's home facilities.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 267--LEGISLATIVE
opposing the inclusion of the va hospital system in any national health
insurance plan
WHEREAS, proposals to make the Department of Veterans Affairs
hospital system part of a National Health Insurance plan have been
suggested; and
WHEREAS, it is the policy of the Disabled American Veterans to
preserve high quality VA hospital and medical care for veterans with
disabilities incurred in or aggravated by service in America's Armed
Forces; and
WHEREAS, the inclusion of the VA hospital system in a national
health insurance plan would eliminate VA's ability to continue its
special medical care programs, specifically designed for the treatment
of veterans whose disabilities are incident to military service; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, vigorously opposes any national health insurance plan which
proposes to incorporate the VA hospital system, or has the effect of
diminishing the VA's role of being the Federal entity with primary
responsibility of providing health care services to disabled veterans.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 268--LEGISLATIVE
opposed third--party payments for service--connected disability
WHEREAS, the Department of Veterans Affairs' (VA's) mission is to
provide high quality medical care to veterans eligible by reason of
their service-connected disabilities; and
WHEREAS, VA has the right to recover or collect the cost of care
from third-party health insurers when insured veterans receive health
care from VA for nonservice-connected conditions; and
WHEREAS, the collection of payments from third parties for the
treatment of veterans' service-connected disabilities would abrogate
VA's and Federal Government's responsibility to provide such care and
may result in increased premium payments to veterans; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, opposes any legislation that would require VA to recover
third-party payments for the care and treatment of a veterans' service-
connected disability(ies).
------
RESOLUTION NO. 269--LEGISLATIVE
in support of increased sharing of resources between the health care
systems of the department of veterans affairs and the department of
defense
WHEREAS, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Department
of Defense (DoD) currently administer programs which provide a full
range of medical care services to veterans, active duty personnel,
military retirees and dependents; and
WHEREAS, due to years of inadequate funding and increasing needs on
the part of beneficiaries, both the VA and DoD health care systems are
experiencing a crisis which endangers their respective missions; and
WHEREAS, since 1982, the VA/DoD Health Resources Sharing and
Emergency Operations Act has authorized sharing arrangements between
these two systems for the purpose of minimizing duplication and under
utilization of resources and promoting cost-effectiveness and
improvement in the delivery of care; and
WHEREAS, many VA and DoD treatment facilities have entered into
sharing agreements that have proven mutually beneficial and enhanced
their ability to provide hospital and medical care services; and
WHEREAS, existing statutory constraints and less than concise and
clear leadership directives from Washington, D.C., stand as a barrier
to a full realization of this VA/DoD sharing potential; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports the enactment of legislation that would promote a
broader and greater degree of sharing between the health care systems
of the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 270--LEGISLATIVE
supporting the provision of comprehensive department of veterans
affairs health care services to entitled veterans
WHEREAS, it is the position of the Disabled American Veterans that
veterans should be afforded quality and timely health care services by
the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) because of their honorable
service to our Nation; and
WHEREAS, for well over a decade VA has been faced with the dilemma
of ever-increasing demand for medical care and perennially inadequate,
decremental budgets; and
WHEREAS, because of various statutory and administrative barriers,
veterans are denied adequate health care implicitly promised in
connection with their military service; and
WHEREAS, there is a critical need to clearly define eligibility for
VA care, the services that will be provided, and how the system will be
funded; and
WHEREAS, any reform of VA must encompass, as a minimum, the
following:
Entitlement to care guaranteeing access to a full continuum
of care from preventive through hospice;
Guaranteed funding through adequate appropriations, third
party reimbursements and ``start-up'' transition funding;
Preserving VA's mission and role as a provider of special
services in areas such as blindness, amputation, aging, mental
health, and long-term care;
Reduced centralized bureaucracy, permitting local medical
facility directors to utilize resources in the most efficient
and economical manner; and
Maintaining the integrity of an independent VA health care
delivery system as representing the primary responsible entity
for the delivery of health care services to entitled veterans;
NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation following the concepts and principles
embodied above--establishing an entitlement to VA health care services
for a clearly defined category of veterans.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 271--LEGISLATIVE
opposing copayments by service-connected disabled veterans to receive
va prescription medications
WHEREAS, the ``Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990,'' (Public
Law 101-508) imposes a $2.00 copayment for certain service-connected
disabled veterans in order to receive VA prescription medications; and
WHEREAS, the payment of copayment, for each 30-day supply of a
prescribed medication causes financial hardships on veterans required
to take multiple medications; and
WHEREAS, the creation of such copayments was intended purely for
the purpose of overall Federal budget reductions; and
WHEREAS, service-connected disabled veterans have done more than
their fair share and have already paid the price for earned entitlement
to VA medical services; and
WHEREAS, the imposition of prescription copayments is another
earned benefit being denied service-connected disabled veterans; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, vigorously opposes a copayment for service-connected disabled
veterans to receive VA medications.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 272--LEGISLATIVE
provide for reimbursement of certain medical expenses for former
prisoners of war
WHEREAS, current law extends eligibility to former prisoners of war
for hospital care, as well as outpatient treatment for any disability;
and
WHEREAS, former prisoners of war have endured numerous hardships
and dietary deficiencies as a result of their internment; and
WHEREAS, former prisoners of war may require medical treatment of
an emergent nature to a degree that any delay could be hazardous to
their health or life; and
WHEREAS, a Department of Veterans Affairs health care facility may
not be feasibly available to provide the necessary emergency medical
care; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports the enactment of legislation to amend section
1728(a)(2) of title 38 U.S.C., providing for the consideration of
reimbursement of certain medical expenses incurred by former prisoners
of war.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 273--LEGISLATIVE
supporting the provision of community residential care as a
responsibility of the department of veterans affairs
WHEREAS, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has the
authority--section 1730, title 38 U.S.C.--and utilizes such authority
to assist veterans for placement in a community residential-care
facility; and
WHEREAS, VA's authority to assist veterans is limited to suitable
placement in and approval of such facility after an appropriate
inspection to determine compliance with certain established and defined
health and safety standards; and
WHEREAS, VA is not responsible for, nor assumes any financial
liability for veterans residing in such facilities, receiving room and
board, personal care and supervision, as an integral, necessary
component of their overall treatment regime; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports the enactment of legislation requiring VA to assume
the total financial liability of such care for service-connected
disabled veterans, in the same manner and using the same criteria that
outpatient services are furnished under section 1712, title 38 U.S.C.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 274--LEGISLATIVE
supporting retention of local vavs committees
WHEREAS, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, the Honorable Jesse
Brown, recently directed the integration of the sixteen VA Medical
Centers into seven medical centers; and,
WHEREAS, each of these VA medical centers have their own corps of
volunteers and local VAVS Committees, with their own distinctive
identity and pride; and
WHEREAS, to combine them into groups identified with only the lead
medical center would cause a loss of individual identity and pride in
the several facilities they now serve and possibly lead to decreased
support of volunteers and donations; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, go on record strongly recommending that each facility,
although integrated, be permitted to retain their separate local VAVS
Committees and volunteers, with separate records and award ceremonies
as at present (prior to integration).
______
Commander McMasters. Thank you, Mr. Johns. Is there support
for his motion. Mike 2.
Mr. Chad Vale. Chad Vale, Chapter 16, Illinois, makes a
motion to accept these resolutions as read.
Commander McMasters. We have the motion already on the
floor. Would you like to support that motion? Mike 2, the
motion has been made. Would you like to support that motion?
Mr. Vale. Yes.
Commander McMasters. Okay. Thank you. We have the motion on
the floor. The motion's been made and supported. Ready for the
question? All in favor, signify by Aye; opposed. It's carried.
Congressman Steve Buyer was elected to the United States
House of Representatives in 1992. He is in his second term
representing Indiana's Fifth Congressional District, which
includes 20 counties in North Central Indiana.
He is a member of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee and
is chairman of the Education, Training, Employment and Housing
Subcommittee. He has been a pioneer on health issues affecting
active duty personnel and veterans and their families.
During his first term in Congress, he co-authored
legislation that provides health care and other aid to Persian
Gulf veterans who suffer from as-yet undiagnosed illnesses
known as Gulf War Syndrome.
Congressman Buyer received his bachelor's degree in
business administration from the Citadel and was commissioned
as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army. He received his law
degree from Valparaiso University School of Law in 1984.
Following law school, he returned to active duty for three
years with the United States Army as a member of the Judge
Advocate General's Corps, where he was assigned as a special
assistant to the U.S. Attorney in Virginia.
In the fall of 1990, he was called to serve in the Persian
Gulf War. Currently he serves as a member of the Army Reserve,
where he holds the rank for major.
Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in welcoming
Congressman Steve Buyer. [Applause.]
Congressman Steve Buyer. Thank you very much, Commander
McMasters, and Senior Vice-Commander Greg Reed of Indiana. I
know the Auxiliary national president is not in the room, but I
pay respects to Barbara Hicks, and also to Indiana State
Commander Ken Kersey is here, and the rest of my Indiana
comrades who hopefully are setting over here. All right, guys.
I also want to open up by sharing an insight with you, and
the insight is that as I've served now for four years on the
Veterans' Affairs Committee, I have enjoyed a working
relationship with two individuals who are serving you and your
organization very, very well. I don't believe there's anyone
that is more sincere than these two gentlemen and they are very
earnest in their efforts and their sincerity, and that is Rick
Schultz and Ron Drach.
I also want you to know that I bring greetings from Bob
Stump, the chairman of the Veterans' Affairs Committee in the
House. I also bring greetings from a very good friend and
colleague of mine and a comrade of all of us, and that is Sonny
Montgomery. [Applause.]
I want to share something with you, that in the 1960s there
was a scene that occurred that's played all across America. In
the 1960s, I was a little boy that used to stand on the
sidewalk holding a little American flag as I watched these
Legionnaires and the DAV and VFW come marching up the street.
They called it marching; I wasn't sure what it was. But they
were coming down the street. And I was there, probably there
anxious really to pick up the brass, so that I could pick up
that brass and blow into it.
But you know, I want you to know that I came from an
American Legion family. My father is presently a district
commander for the American Legion, and my mother just a few
weeks ago was elected the Indiana State Auxiliary president of
the American Legion. So I come from a family that has lived
veterans' issues, and I didn't dream, I guess, in the 1960s
that I would now stand here humbly before you as a life member
of Amvets, the American Legion and the VFW.
I suppose that individuals who know me, have seen me speak,
know that I don't mix words. I'm very direct, very blunt, and I
guess candor is a bastard term in Washington, D.C., but I think
being straight with people is what's important. And I also
suppose that using the satire of Secretary Brown's remarks
yesterday, I am the ``Young and Restless,'' trying to turn this
country into ``Another World,'' that throws children out of
hospitals.
You see, ladies and gentlemen, that is called partisan
politics, and I know that the VSOs pride themselves on
bipartisanship. But I also know that we should be
straightforward with ourselves.
I mean, I know that when my father ran for the district
commander, the only place I know that there's more politics is
perhaps in Little League. Right? (Laughter) I mean, to say
there isn't politics in our organizations, let's be truthful
with ourselves.
But if the Secretary has become very partisan in his
politics, I accept that, I really do. I just don't believe that
you should use veterans and veterans' issues to legitimize
political causes. I think that's wrong. You see, no one ever
asked me, and I'm sure no one ever asked you that when you
stood and took the oath, whether you were Republican or whether
you were a Democrat. When you wore the uniform, you wore the
uniform to defend the Constitution to lay down your life to
protect this country.
And that is the same sincerity in which I serve on the
Veterans' Affairs Committee. We pride ourselves on the
Veterans' Affairs Committee in our bipartisan nature on the
issues, and it is led by the pace, by Chairman Stump and
Ranking Member Montgomery.
Let me also share with you that as the ``Young and
Restless,'' I believe we can do better. That's why I'm the
``Young and Restless,'' whether it's improving the economy to
our families, to the environment or our moral fiber. You see, I
believe that our country still needs you. They still need you,
because there are individuals in our society that try to seek
and change us from a country that was established on very
strong Biblical principles to a country of humanistic
principles, that people can do whatever they want so long as it
feels good and doesn't hurt others, whether it's from same sex
marriages to you name it.
I believe that what guides a country through the storm of
chaos is a good moral fiber, a strong and deep rudder, and with
individuals at the helm who are strong in character. It's easy
to sail a boat on a windless day under blue sky and on calm
seas, but to carry that boat through stormy waters into the
chaos, you need good moral fiber and good strong character.
That's why your country still needs you. That's why your
communities still need you. Because individuals in your
community look up to you.
National character is extremely important. I believe that
there are many things and places that define our national
character. Our strength comes from our struggles and our
triumphs, from the revolution where revolutionaries first ran
at Lexington Green, to the place on the Old North Bridge in
Concord, Massachusetts that marks the spot where merchants and
farmers first took a stand and challenged the British Army on
April 19th of 1775.
Our national character, though, is clearly defined through
the emotions of war. War has been with us through the ages.
From those of us who have participated to others who've
witnessed, stories have been told and written, each capturing
some form of glory. War may be glorious in verse or prose, but
in reality it is not. It is the soldier, the sailor, the airman
or the Marine who felt the cold stings of battle, they've
witnessed the long dark shadows of horror, and they've
challenged the face of death.
You see, war is not glorious, but glory is found in new
levels of courage exercised from the American character, common
people called upon to perform uncommon acts of valor. And
through that sacrifice, our challenge is that it shall never be
in vein. We have a very strong heritage, a very strong
heritage. As a member of the National Security Committee and
the Veterans' Affairs Committee, I take my responsibilities
very serious, because it begins the day someone takes an oath
all the way to the bronze marker laid upon the grave.
Let me begin by thanking the President of the United States
for his remarks yesterday in regard to terrorism. I worked as a
conferee on the anti-terrorism bill and with the Senate, and
went with Henry Hyde down to the White House for the signing of
that bill. I think his remarks were very appropriate.
It also shows that the world is still yet a dangerous
place, that the Russian bear has been replaced by a thousand
vipers, that this is no time to deeply cut the budgets of the
defense. It's easy to say I'm for a strong defense, but you
must look at the deed. While the Cold War is over, I think the
U.S. security interests endure, and as we move into closing
years of the 20th century, our nation faces a series of new and
serious challenges.
As the sole remaining super power, the United States is
called upon to provide stability and leadership in the
uncertain world, and we can do that by providing the regional
stability, not involving the United States in every corner of
the world for what is termed as moral obligations, placing our
troops under these powder blue hats and saying now they're
extending Americans' cause. No. It must be done to protect
vital national security interests.
History shows us that now is not the time to reduce our
military forces, yet the greatest open secret in Washington,
D.C. and to the world is that we have a national security
objective to fight and win two nearly simultaneous major
regional conflicts. The reality is, ladies and gentlemen, we do
not have a military force structure to do that. We should do a
reassessment of our national security objectives and be honest
and open with our allies, whether it be in the Pacific Rim to
the European Theater.
The current estimates are that the military forces are
presently underfunded from the bottom-up review--I don't care
if it's from the most liberal estimate to the most conservative
estimate--from 60 to a hundred billion shortfall. Sixty to a
hundred billion! The defense spending continues to decline. The
House proposal for the FY '97 budget at $266.7 billion, when
adjusted for inflation, represents the 12th straight year of
decline in defense spending.
When measured as a share of the GDP, defense spending will
only be 2.2 percent level since before World War II. You should
also note from our budgetary concerns that interest payment on
our national debt exceeds what we pay for national defense for
the first time in our history.
Since the end of the Cold War, we have cut 11 Air Force
fighter wings, 8 active Army divisions, 200 ships, a 27 percent
cut in the active military manpower. This year in testimony
before the House National Security Committee, the chairman of
the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Shalikashvili, stated that
to maintain readiness, to maintain military readiness, he
needed $60 billion in the procurement account to replace the
aging equipment. The chairman went on to say that we have
preserved readiness and forestructure at the expense of
modernization.
You see, in the President's budget that was provided,
provide only 38.9 billion, the lowest level in over 50 years.
We are living off our procurement and our O and M for today and
sacrificing the future. You need to know that.
You know that because individuals such as myself are
attacked. We're attacked by their saying, ``Well, Steve, you're
plussing up defense at levels that the Pentagon's not even
asking for.'' Well, there's some gamesmanship that is going on
here, ladies and gentlemen. The gamesmanship is that they don't
want the defense spending to go up, so they cut deep into
defense. As a matter of fact, the cuts went so deep into
places, we didn't even have funding for 475 million for the
military health care delivery system. Like what? We're not
going to pay doctors and nurses? So we have to plus the budget
to actually provide for readiness in O and M, and I wanted you
to know that.
Let me share some outlines with you with regard to our
veterans' issues. Oh, before I do that, let me share one other
thing with you. With Sonny Montgomery leaving the Congress--
Sonny has not only done great work on behalf of veterans in the
country, what he has done in his service to the nation on
national security issues is just as admirable. What Sonny has
done in the total force concept for the integration of the
Reserve, the National Guard with the active force, has been
remarkable over the years.
With Sonny leaving, Paul McHale, Democrat from
Pennsylvania, and I have formed a Reserve Components Caucus. I
believe it will take--and 50 members have signed up to it--I
think it will take about 52 of us members to equal Sonny
Montgomery and what he's done. But I wanted you to know what
we've done in that cause for the interest of our Reserve
components to include the Coast Guard, the National Guard, and
all Reservists.
I am also standing here pleased and proud with the 104th
Congress and its accomplishments on behalf of veterans. The
104th Congress, I believe, is extending its honor to their
nation's veterans, and we're also keeping the faith. The
veterans' funding has increased. Veterans' programs have been
and will continue to be the high priority program in this
Congress.
According to the House Budget Committee, the total VA
spending from 37.8 billion in FY '96 has increased to 39.8
billion in FY '97. During the next six years, more than 234.3
billion will be spent on veterans' programs, 19.7 billion more
than the previous six years; funding increases, even though the
number of veterans is estimated to decline by 11 percent, or
2.6 million by year 2002.
One thing I want to be up front with you is the budget that
was sent to us by the President. The President's budget did not
pass muster. The House VA HUD appropriations bill. We spend
eight million more on VA medical care and research in FY '97
than the President's budget, and 10.6 billion more than the
President's budget over six years. We spend 10.6 billion more
than the President's budget over six years.
I know the President was here, and he said, you know,
``I've asked for an increase of $1 billion, and they cut it.''
I want you to note that the $1 billion plus-up is made in a
political presidential season, that when you look at the out
years, even Secretary Brown called the budget cuts devastating
to the VA.
Let me share with you, in the subcommittee we took up the
issue--and it's one that you've discussed with many other VSOs,
except for the American Legion--the Davenport versus Brown
decision to bring back the service connection with voc.
rehabilitation. Out of my subcommittee became the bill that
passed the House Veterans' Affairs Committee and has passed the
House. We overturned that decision, and we came up with money
in the process.
The President's budget wanted to take all that money and
put it to deficit reduction. I said No. We put over $230
billion back into veterans' program. When we have an
opportunity to streamline veterans's programs and increase
them, then let's do it. So I felt very good about being able to
overturn this decision and find monies.
The 230 billion, let me give you a quick outline of the
program improvements and their six years' cost and what they
include. They are allowing the surviving spouse to retain
compensation or pension payments prorated to the date of death
instead of the end of the month before a veteran died. That was
a $70 million increase. We're also increasing from one to two
years the period of time for which accrued benefits are payable
to a surviving spouse in the case of a veteran who dies while a
claim is being adjudicated. That's an increase of $17 million.
Establishing a pilot program under which contract
physicians would provide disability examinations to applicants
for VA benefits was an increase of 14 million. We also
increased the automobile allowance. That's an increase of six
million. We extended the homeless veterans' reintegration
project through fiscal year 1999, authorizing appropriations in
the amount of ten million per year. We also increased the
authorized funds to legal assistance organizations representing
financially needy veterans in proceedings before the U.S. Court
of Veterans' Appeals. That's at a cost of six million.
I also increased the Montgomery GI Bill active duty monthly
basic rates to $421.62. That was a cost of $92 million. We're
also allowing the transfer of certain active duty service
members to the Montgomery GI Bill from the post-Vietnam era
educational assistance program. That's an increase in cost of
$18 million. We're also providing Montgomery GI Bill
eligibility for certain active duty members of the Army and Air
National Guard. That was at $14 million. We're also removing
the two-year restriction on all standard degree granting
institutions.
And veterans are being told that spending is being
decreased when in fact it's being increased. I wanted to share
that with you. Five hundred million increase over 1996 in VA
health care for FY `97 in the House VA HUD appropriations bill
is 60 million more than what the President had requested.
The congressional budget--I'm going to say it again--
provides $10.6 billion more over the VA over the next six years
than the President's budget. And Secretary Brown was before us
at the full Veterans' Affairs Committee when he said that the
President's budget in the out years is devastating the VA and
therefore, he said, ``I received this assurance from the
President that we get to negotiate the budget year by year.''
Well, if you negotiate the budget year by year, then please
tell me up front where you're taking the money from? Where are
you going to take the money from? And they're unwilling to
discuss that.
Tomorrow--I wanted you to know also what's happening on the
House floor--the House will pass H.R. 3118. It's reforming the
VA health care eligibility to move the VA from a costly in-
patient model. The VA will provide all needed outpatient care
services, including preventive care and home health care.
That's been in a bipartisan nature. I believe it will pass
overwhelmingly on the House floor.
The House will also pass H.R. 3586 tomorrow, which will
extend veterans' preference eligibility to all veterans with at
least four years of service upon honorable discharge. This bill
extends veterans' preference to all agencies. As I sat there in
my office, I kept thinking, why is it we're not applying
veterans' preference across the board? And as we're down-sizing
government in these RIF procedures, there is a culture within
the bureaucracies that has a bias against veterans.
Let's make sure that the veterans are protected, and that
the veterans' preference has meat in it. And so we are
extending veterans' preference to all branches of government,
the executive branch, the Executive Office of the White House,
that has only four percent veterans; to the judiciary branch
and the legislative branch. And I think that's extremely
important to do that. [Applause.]
Let me just close with this, and I'm hopeful that in the
105th Congress that the issue with regard to flag desecration
is brought back up. In 1992, I recall the speeches by Bill
Clinton that he made a promise to veterans that he would make
sure that that bill passed, when in reality he campaigned
against the bill and it was defeated in the Senate. That's a
fact, ladies and gentlemen.
And I believe, though, if we get behind this, not only you,
but all VSOs, we can prevent the desecration of the American
flag. Now, I know that there are some that like to stand up and
talk about the Constitution. There aren't enough hay wagons in
Indiana that they can stand on to convince me that it's
permissible to desecrate the American flag. [Applause.]
Let me just say in closing, I want to share with you on two
things as I was reading. I was reading some--I love to read
history. It's one of the legacies my father gave me. The other
one I'm not so sure about. He made me a Cubs fan. [Laughter.] I
guess you can tell I'm loyal. I think that, you know, if the
Soviet Union can be no more, I think the Cubs can win the World
Series. It'll happen.
But as I was reading a passage--it was about World War II
in the European Theater, and there was an individual that
talked about an event that occurred. And even some of you in
this room, as you marched across Europe, you left freedom in
your footsteps. On the battlefield there was someone who was
mortally wounded, and there was no one around to hear his last
words. So he pulled from his pocket a pad and he wrote down
some words, and when the bodies were policed from the
battlefield, they found in his hand these words on the pad, and
it said, ``When you go home, tell them that I gave this day for
their tomorrow.'' Those are very powerful words.
And later on in another chapter, I read where General
Patton, when he went to his cemetery, he stood there and he
looked at all the little white crosses and the Stars of David,
and he said, ``I'm not here to pay honor to those who've died
for their country. I'm here to pay homage and thank God that
they lived.''
I'm here to thank God that they lived and to thank you for
your sacrifices. As I leave here and go back to Washington and
you're going back to your homes, I want you to know I believe
you live in luxury. You live in luxury because you get to go
home and have conversations with people, and the words that you
extend and exchange between each other have meaning. I get to
go back to Washington, and I deal with people where words have
no meaning. [Laughter and applause.]
``I say it, but I don't believe it.'' They utter words
between themselves as though they're factually challenged.
Words are meant to have meaning. Don't say it unless you mean
it. Character matters. Character matters, ladies and gentlemen.
[Applause.]
But I want you to know I believe, I believe that it is
honorable, I believe that it is noble, and it is pleasing to
move our minds in charity, rest in Providence and move upon the
polls of our minds in charity, rest in Providence and move upon
the polls of truth. Coupled with our heritage and a strong
character, we'll guide our country to higher ground. God bless
you [Applause.]
Commander McMasters. Thank you, Congressman Buyer.
At this time, I'm going to call the Employment Committee
chairman, Vincent Reed.
Mr. Vincent P. Reed. Thank you, Commander. Comrade
Commander and delegates: I'm privileged to present the report
of your Convention Committee on Employment. The National
Convention Committee on Employment was called to order for its
first business session on July 29th, 1996 by the committee
advisors, Ronald Drach and Mike Godich.
The first order of business was the election of a committee
chairman. Vincent Reed was nominated as chairman. There being
no further nominations, nominations were closed and Vinny was
elected chairman. The next order of business was the nomination
and election of a secretary. M. Rae White was nominated and
elected as secretary of the committee.
The committee then proceeded to review the resolutions
submitted, and I'll now report to you the resolutions
recommended for adoption. For the sake of saving time as we
approach lunch, I will read the approved resolutions' number
and title that gives its RESOLVED. The following have been
approved by the committee:
Resolution 23. Oppose the transfer of vets to the
employment and training administration.
255. To transfer Veterans Employment and Training Service
to the Department of Veterans Affairs.
101. Veteran's preference established in one-stop centers
was adopted as amended by the committee.
100. Veterans' preference in block grants adopted as
amended by the committee.
138. To provide for veterans' preference in all JTPA
programs was adopted.
Resolution 275 from the interim was to amend the rules of
this convention as it applies to the business done by the
committee was adopted.
171. To amend the definition of disabled veterans for
purposes of benefits administered under Chapter 42, Title 38,
United States Code.
Number 64. Affirmative action program for disabled veterans
in government contracts.
Number 192. To amend Section 4103(a)(1) of Title 38 to
amend the DVOP preference to allow the appointment of a
qualified disabled veteran with priority for Vietnam Era
disabled vets.
256. Veterans' preference for state assistance and
training, employment and education.
257. To amend the residency requirements for state
directors and assistant state directors for the Veterans
Employment and Training Service.
Number 063. Affirmative action for the employment of
disabled veterans.
65. Allow disabled veterans retired from military on
disability to count service time towards civil service
retirement.
258. To provide direct loans in set-asides at Small
Business Administration for disabled vets.
Resolution 21. Support veterans' preference in all public
employment.
143. Establish an outreach to the women veterans of the
nation. That was adopted as amended by the committee.
Number 22, Adequate funding and permanencies for veterans'
employment and training programs, including NVTI, SBA, DVBOP,
LVER and the homeless program.
102. To maintain the assignment of responsibility for
federal employment for veterans to the national level.
141. Employer incentives for retraining disabled veterans.
Number 99. Supporting House Resolution 1593, veterans'
preference in all federal employment and training programs.
Resolution 262. To amend Chapter 42 of Title 38 to include
grants under affirmative action.
Number 263. To provide an appeal process for veterans who
believe their veterans' preference rights of affirmative action
rights have been violated.
264. To amend the definition of a disabled veteran for the
purpose of benefits administered under Chapter 42, Title 38,
United States Code.
Number 142. To provide for vocational rehabilitation
employment assistance.
259. To expand the authority for unpaid work experience in
a resume.
Number 260. The VR&C staff to be provided state-of-the-art
equipment to do their jobs.
Number 261. The DVOP should be part of the VA vocational
rehabilitations integrated case management system.
And last, 265, to ensure veterans' preference in the United
States Postal Service.
Comrade Commander and comrades, this completes my reports.
My thanks go to all the committee members who are in
attendance, those who were alternates who helped out and gave
their input, especially Ron and Mike, our two able advisors,
and to the secretary that I had the pleasure of serving with
today and on this committee previously, who's on stage with me
today, Rae.
And Comrade Commander, this completing the report, I move
the adoption of these resolutions, and that my committee be
discharged with the thanks of this convention.
[The above-mentioned resolutions follow:]
RESOLUTION NO. 021--LEGISLATIVE
supporting veterans' preference in public employment
WHEREAS, the Disabled American Veterans has strongly supported
federal, state and local veterans' preference laws; and
WHEREAS, attempts are being made to weaken, dilute and circumvent
existing veterans' preference laws; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports veterans' preference in federal, state and local
employment.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 022--LEGISLATIVE
adequate funding and permanency for veterans' employment and/or
training including nvti, sba, dvop, lver, and homeless programs
WHEREAS, there are numerous veterans' employment and training
programs that need adequate staffing and funding; and
WHEREAS, those programs include the Veterans' Employment and
Training Service of the Department of Labor, LVER and DVOP, JPTA, SBA,
NVTI, Homeless and others; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, seeks and supports adequate funding and permanency for all
veterans' employment and training programs.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 023--LEGISLATIVE
oppose the transfer of the veterans' employment and training service
(vets) to the employment and training administration (eta)
WHEREAS, Vice President Gore has established a ``National
Performance Review'' to make recommendations to improve government; and
WHEREAS, it recently came to the attention of the National
Employment Director that a recommendation is included in that review to
transfer VETS to ETA; and
WHEREAS, part of that proposal abolishes all the positions at the
regional level, as well as the State and Assistant State Director
positions; and
WHEREAS, this proposal effectively eliminates VETS; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, oppose any efforts by this administration to transfer VETS to
ETA.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 063--ADMINISTRATIVE
affirmative action for employment of disabled veterans
WHEREAS, Congress has enacted a law requiring an Affirmative Action
program for disabled veterans in federal government employment; and
WHEREAS, many disabled veterans now working for the federal
government are not being afforded the opportunity for training, which
would provide them with the necessary knowledge and/or experience
needed for promotion to higher grades; and
WHEREAS, there currently does not exist a procedure for enforcing
the provisions of 38 U.S.C. 4214 and 5 CFR part 720 for disabled
veterans; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, seek enforcement provisions and protections for disabled
veterans.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 064--ADMINISTRATIVE
affirmative action program for disabled veterans in government
contracts
WHEREAS, currently the government requires contractors that are
awarded contracts by the federal government to have an Affirmative
Action program; and
WHEREAS, more definitive contract guidance needs to be provided
government contractors on the requirements of the affirmative action
program for disabled veterans; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, seeks changes to the regulations which would require all
government contractors that receive an award over $25,000 to have an
Affirmative Action program for disabled veterans that would mandate
these employers to seek out disabled veterans to be employed, train
these disabled veterans so that they can progress in employment, and to
promote these disabled veterans on the same basis as that which is
required for, or provided to, minority and/or women under other
affirmative action programs of the federal government.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 065--ADMINISTRATIVE
allow disabled veterans retired from the military on disability to
count service time toward civil service retirement
WHEREAS, military personnel who are injured during time of war and
who are then retired because of their service-connected disabilities
deserve to receive the full benefit of their disability retirement; and
WHEREAS, men and women who are retired for disability from the
military and seek employment with the federal government cannot count
their few years of service towards civil service retirement unless they
waive their disability retired pay; and
WHEREAS, retired reservists can draw retirement from civil service
and the military service for the service rendered during the same
period of years without reduction to their civil service time or any
requirement to waive their military retired pay in order to receive
full civil service retirement; and
WHEREAS, ex-servicemen and women who only draw Department of
Veterans Affairs (VA) compensation for their service-connected
disability can receive both the VA compensation and civil service
retirement pay without waiver of one for the other; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, seek legislation to change the law which now prohibits
disabled military retirees, disabled from any cause except willful
misconduct, and who served during a period of declared national
emergency, war or police action, to be entitled to count their service
time towards civil service retirement provided that they pay a sum
equal to 7 percent of their military pay into the civil service
retirement trust fund or FERS (without interest) to cover the pay they
received during those years, for the purpose of counting their time
towards civil service retirement.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 099--LEGISLATIVE
support of h.r. 1593 veterans preference in all federal employment &
training programs
WHEREAS, it is a National responsibility to provide veterans'
preference in all employment and training services available in the
United States; and
WHEREAS, it is not practical nor feasible to devolve this
responsibility to the States because this will weaken or eliminate the
current preference for veterans mandated by Title 38 U.S.C.; and
WHEREAS, H.R. 1593 as proposed by Representative Sonny Montgomery
seeks to provide veterans' preference for all Federally funded
employment and training programs; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, hereby supports passage of H.R. 1593.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 100--ADMINISTRATIVE
veterans' preference in block grants
WHEREAS, over the past 50 plus years Congress has declared its
intent that veterans and disabled veterans receive preference and
priority in all employment and training services administered by the
Department of Labor; and
WHEREAS, the current direction and movement of the Congress is
towards block grant process with the states deciding how the reduced
funds for employment and training are to be expended; and
WHEREAS, there are no provisions under the Block Grant process for
continuing or addressing this covenant with our nation's veterans/
disabled veterans; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, strive to ensure that any and all legislation relating to
employment and training initiatives that is considered, provides clear
priority of services to veterans/disabled veterans; AND
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that oversight and monitoring of these
initiatives continue to be conducted by the appropriate agency within
the Department of Labor.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 101--ADMINISTRATIVE
veterans' preference in one-stop service centers
WHEREAS, the Texas Legislature has enacted H.B. 1863 which
consolidated the Texas Department of Commerce and the Texas Employment
Commission into one agency, the Texas Work Force Commission; and
WHEREAS, this legislation also created local boards which will be
responsible for administering the employment and training funds that
will assist local job seekers including veterans in accessing on the
job training, classroom training and the operation of the one-stop
centers; and
WHEREAS, other states are taking similar actions; and
WHEREAS, the employment and training needs of veterans/disabled
veterans continue to expand due to the downsizing of the military; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, seek legislation mandating that disabled and other veterans
receive preference and priority in all employment and training services
provided at the One-Stop Centers.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 102--ADMINISTRATIVE
retain nationwide programs of employment assistance for veterans as the
responsibility of the federal government
WHEREAS, throughout the nearly two hundred and twenty-year history
of the United States, the men and women of this nation have served in
the Armed Forces in the interest of the collective body of states,
united under a central federal government, ``to provide for the common
defense,''; and
WHEREAS, title 38 U.S.C. Sec. 4301, Congress expressed its purpose
in enacting the Uniformed Service Employment and Reemployment rights
Act of 1994 (USERRA), in part ``to encourage non-career service in the
uniformed services by eliminating or minimizing the disadvantage to
civilian careers and employment which can result from such service,'';
and
WHEREAS, it has been the finding of numerous surveys and studies
that, for a variety of reasons, the vast majority of veterans/disabled
veterans of the Armed Forces of the United States are disadvantaged in
pursuing civilian employment and careers; and
WHEREAS, in title 38 U.S.C. Sec. 4101, ``The Congress declares as
its intent and purpose that there shall be an effective (1) job and job
training counseling service program, (2) employment placement service
program, and (3) job training placement service program for eligible
veterans/disabled veterans and eligible persons . . .''; and
WHEREAS, legislation has been introduced in both houses of Congress
that would reduce the direction and control of such employment
assistance programs by the federal government, relinquishing such
control to the discretion of the Governors of the states; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, oppose any such elimination of federal direction and control
over the employment assistance entitlement earned by America's
veterans/disabled veterans through their honorable service.
------
RESOLUTION ON. 117--ADMINISTRATIVE
supporting legislation to give disabled veterans hiring preference
without regard to period of service
WHEREAS, existing law provides for a priority system for veterans
and other eligible persons in federally funded employment and training
programs; and
WHEREAS, title 38 U.S.C. requires that those programs give
preference to Vietnam veterans over disabled veterans who are rated at
less than 30% compensable disabled; and
WHEREAS, titles 5 and 38 U.S.C. give clear definitions of veterans
and the preference under which they and other eligible individuals will
be employed within the federal sector; and
WHEREAS, title 5 U.S.C. specifically requires that disabled
veterans be given preference over other veterans for hiring within the
federal government; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports the passage of legislation that will be consistent
with the existing federal hiring statutes that do not specify any
unique war period of service over another.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 138--LEGISLATIVE
veterans' preference in the job training partnership act
WHEREAS, there currently is no provision in the Job Training
Partnership Act (JTPA), Public Law 97-300, to give preference in
services to disabled veterans and veterans; and
WHEREAS, disabled veterans and veterans are given priority under
laws governing other employment and training programs (title 38 U.S.C.,
Chapters 41 and 42); and
WHEREAS, a significant percentage of the work force eligible for
services under JTPA are disabled veterans and veterans who have served
their country, and now face significant barriers to employment; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, hereby goes on record urging Congress to amend the JTPA so as
to provide for disabled veterans and veterans' preference in all
programs operated under JTPA to include One-stop Career Centers.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 141--LEGISLATIVE
employer incentives for retraining disabled veterans
WHEREAS, a general transformation of the nation's economy due
largely to defense reductions has caused vast numbers of middle income
jobs in the industrial and manufacturing sectors to disappear, leaving
many veterans and disabled veterans displaced and in need of
retraining; and
WHEREAS, against this background, federally sponsored training
programs have failed to target veterans in such existing programs as
the Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA); NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, hereby goes on record strongly urging the Congress to create
additional tax incentives and a training reimbursement program designed
to generate the needed amount of employer provided training and
employment opportunities leading to meaningful careers for veterans and
disabled veterans.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 142--ADMINISTRATIVE
vocational rehabilitation employment assistance
WHEREAS, disabled veterans completing VA vocational rehabilitation
programs, particularly severely disabled veterans, are too infrequently
placed in jobs leading to meaningful careers in their chosen
occupations; and
WHEREAS, VA's vocational rehabilitation personnel are often
unfamiliar with the avenues through which veterans can receive
employment assistance, such as the Disabled Veteran Outreach
Specialists (DVOPs) who are required to begin job development for
rehabilitated veterans within six months of their completion of
training; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, does hereby (1) urge the VA and VETS/DOL to establish formal
cross-training for VA vocational rehabilitation counselors and DOL
funded veteran employment specialists in order to expedite appropriate
and effective job placement for disabled veterans completing their
rehabilitation, and (2) request additional funding for this cross
training and to augment personnel levels in the VA vocational
rehabilitation program, and (3) urge VETS/DOL to increase the number of
DVOP staff outstationed at VA vocational rehabilitation facilities for
the purpose of developing more meaningful jobs.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 143--ADMINISTRATIVE
outreach and employment of women veterans
WHEREAS, many women who have served in the military are not aware
of services available to them through state operated Job Service
offices in the United States and may be less likely to obtain
employment and training than their male counterparts; and
WHEREAS, over the last decade there has been a definite increase in
the number of women veterans in need of employment and training
services; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, does hereby go on record requesting (a) Congress establish and
fund special programs and outreach to women veterans in need of
employment and assistance from the nation's basic labor exchange system
and training assistance through programs operated under the Job
Training Partnership Act (JTPA); (b) additional training in the needs
of women veterans be provided to the veteran staff of the State
Employment Security Agencies.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 171--LEGISLATIVE
to amend the definition of disabled veterans for purposes of benefits
administered under chapter 42, title 38 u.s.c.
WHEREAS, chapter 42, title 38 U.S.C., defines a disabled veteran as
one who is rated 30 percent or more services-connected disabled or as
one who was discharged or released from active duty because of a
disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty; and
WHEREAS, disabled veterans continue to bear a disproportionate
unemployment rate and have not received adequate assistance under
Chapter 42, title 38 U.S.C.; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation to amend section 4211 of title 38 U.S.C.,
to redefine the term ``disabled veteran'' as ``one who has a
compensable service-connected disability under laws administered by the
Department of Veterans Affairs or whose discharge or release from
active duty was for a disability incurred or aggravated in the line of
duty.''
______
RESOLUTION NO. 192--ADMINISTRATIVE
amend section 4103(a)(1) of dvops appointment preference to allow the
appointment of qualified disabled veterans with priority given to
qualified disabled veterans of the vietnam era
WHEREAS, it is the intent of Congress that the State Employment
Services Agencies (SESA) provide effective employment and training
services to veterans with priority given in accordance with title 38
U.S.C. Sec. 4102; and
WHEREAS, it is the SEAS's responsibility to provide priority
services to veterans and that all Local Employment Service Office staff
provide priority services to veterans; and
WHEREAS, the requirements for the appointment of Disabled Veterans'
Outreach Program Specialists (DVOPS) is now based upon the preference
to disabled veterans of the Vietnam era; and
WHEREAS, combat veterans and disabled veterans have been
historically shown to have special employment and training needs; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, seek legislation to require that preference be given to
disabled veterans with priority given to disabled Vietnam era veterans
in appointments to DVOP positions.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 255--LEGISLATIVE
transfer the veterans' employment and training service to the
department of veterans affairs
WHEREAS, veterans' educational benefits are administered by VA, not
the Department of Education; and
WHEREAS, veterans' health services are administered by VA, not the
Department of Health and Human Services; and
WHEREAS, veterans' housing programs are administered by VA, not the
Department of Housing and Urban Development; and
WHEREAS, the Department of Labor (DOL) is the only non-VA federal
agency administering a veterans' program; and
WHEREAS, the Department of Veterans Affairs is now a Cabinet level
department, and the initial reason for the establishment of a
Department of Veterans Affairs was to avoid duplication, fragmentation
or delay in the various services provided to our nation's veterans; and
WHEREAS, it is our proposal that the entire Veterans' Employment
and Training Service staff and funding be transferred to VA, thereby
avoiding a reduction of personnel, salaries, benefits or ability to
carry out the mandates of chapters 41, 42, and 43, title 38 U.S.C., and
our proposal would continue the DVOP and LVER programs as they
currently exist; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation that would transfer the Veterans'
Employment and Training Service from the Department of Labor to the
Department of Veterans Affairs.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 256--LEGISLATIVE
veterans' preference for state and assistant state directors of
veterans' employment and training
WHEREAS, current law requires that the Department of Labor's State
and Assistant State Directors of Veterans' Employment and Training be
veterans; and
WHEREAS, there has been some discussion to eliminate the veterans'
preference provision; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, opposes any change to the veterans' preference provisions
accorded state and assistant state directors.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 257--LEGISLATIVE
to amend the residency requirements for state directors and assistant
state directors of the veterans' employment and training service
WHEREAS, the Congress of the United States has enacted legislation
providing for a Veterans' Employment and Training Service within the
Department of Labor; and
WHEREAS, the Act provides that the State Director and the Assistant
State Director of the Veterans' Employment and Training Service shall
be a veteran, and at the time of appointment shall be a bona fide
resident of that state for at least two years; and
WHEREAS, this provision prohibits promotional opportunities for
Assistant State Directors and others to other states and restricts them
to their own states; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, goes on record in support of a waiver to substitute two years'
experience as a State Director, an Assistant State Director or DVOP or
LVER in lieu of the current residency requirements, thereby allowing
them the opportunity to compete for State Director positions as they
become vacant.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 258--LEGISLATIVE
provide direct loans and ``set asides'' for disabled veterans
WHEREAS, many disabled veterans would like to start their own
business but cannot obtain the needed loan; and
WHEREAS, many disabled veteran-owned businesses would like to do
business with the federal government; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation that would authorize direct loans be
provided by the federal government to qualified disabled veterans; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the federal government provide ``Set
Asides'' for disabled veteran owned businesses that are the same as,
but separate and apart from, the Small Business Administration
Disadvantaged Business 8A Set Aside Program.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 259--LEGISLATIVE
expand authority for unpaid work experience
WHEREAS, certain disabled veterans pursuing a program of training
under vocational rehabilitation may, as part of that program,
participate in an unpaid work experience situation with either the
federal, state, or local governments; and
WHEREAS, similar authority does not exist for unpaid work
experience with private sector employers; and
WHEREAS, private sector employers may provide meaningful training
in such a program; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, seeks legislative relief that would allow these disabled
veterans to participate in unpaid work experience with private and not-
for-profit sector employers.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 260--LEGISLATIVE
vr&c staff be provided state-of-the-art equipment
WHEREAS, the current Director of the VA's Vocational Rehabilitation
and Counseling Service has no direct line authority over the
approximately 700 employees located throughout the Regional Office
structure; and
WHEREAS, these individuals are responsible to and report to the
Regional Office Director; and
WHEREAS, these individuals rely on the goodwill of the Regional
Office Director to provide them with needed support including current
technological support to include computers, faxes, and even telephones,
which are necessary to expedite and streamline the processes and will
result in earlier enrollments into a program; and
WHEREAS, it has been reported by the recently established ``Design
Team'' set up to review how vocational rehabilitation does business,
some VR&C offices do not have this type of equipment and in at least
one instance, they do not even have phones; and
WHEREAS, this type of equipment is essential to assist disabled
veterans attain their employment goal; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, seeks change that would assure the Regional Office Directors
are held accountable and all VR&C staff at the Regional Office level be
provided state-of-the-art equipment in order for them to efficiently
perform the duties of providing vocational rehabilitation and
employment services to disabled veterans.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 261--LEGISLATIVE
disabled veterans' outreach program specialist (dvops) should be part
of va vocational rehabilitation case management
WHEREAS, Congress has criticized the VA's Office of Vocational
Rehabilitation for not working closely enough with DVOPs; and
WHEREAS, further criticism was leveled at that office because of
VA's inability to determine how many veterans were placed in suitable
employment opportunities; and
WHEREAS, they were also criticized for not working closely enough
with the DVOP staff; and
WHEREAS, the VA is undergoing a major ``redesign'' of how
Vocational Rehabilitation does business; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, request that a requirement be made that the DVOPs be made part
of case management at the earliest onset of rehabilitation process.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 262--LEGISLATIVE
amend chapter 42, title 38 u.s.c. to include grants under affirmative
action
WHEREAS, section 4212, chapter 42, title 38 U.S.C. currently
requires federal contractors to take affirmative action on behalf of
disabled veterans; and
WHEREAS, current law does not provide for recipients of federal
financial assistance, to include grants to states, to take affirmative
action on behalf of veterans; and
WHEREAS, most federal agencies provide grants to universities,
colleges, transportation systems and others who are not required to
take affirmative action; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, requests that section 4212 of title 38, U.S.C., be amended to
include ``recipients of federal financial assistance'' be covered for
affirmative action purposes.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 263--LEGISLATIVE
provide an appeal process for veterans who believe their veterans'
preference or affirmative action rights have been violated
WHEREAS, disabled veterans and other veterans who believe their
rights as a preference eligible or rights under affirmative action
provisions have been violated currently have no recourse other than a
general inquiry; and
WHEREAS, many disabled veterans believe that many agencies
intentionally and unintentionally circumvent veterans' preference or
don't comply with affirmative action; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation that would provide a meaningful appeal/
redress process for veterans and disabled veterans who believe their
rights have been violated under veterans' preference or affirmative
action.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 264--LEGISLATIVE
to amend the definition of disabled veteran for purposes of benefits
administered under chapter 42, title 38 u.s.c.
WHEREAS, chapter 42, title 38 U.S.C., defines a disabled veteran as
one who is rated 30 percent or more service-connected disabled or as
one who was discharged or released from active duty because of a
disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty; and
WHEREAS, disabled veterans continue to bear a disproportionate
unemployment rate and have not received adequate assistance under
Chapter 42, title 38 U.S.C.; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation to amend section 4211 of title 38 U.S.C.,
to redefine the term ``disabled veteran'' as one who has a compensable
service-connected disability under laws administered by the Department
of Veterans Affairs or whose discharge or release from active duty was
for a disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty.''
------
RESOLUTION NO. 265--LEGISLATIVE
veterans' preference in the u.s. postal service
WHEREAS, Congress is currently considering legislation to provide
certain protections and enhancements to veterans' preference in federal
civil service; and
WHEREAS, this legislation would include all federal agencies
including the Postal Service; and
WHEREAS, the Postmaster General of the United States has contacted
the Postal Board of Governors indicating his concern that such changes
to veterans' preference would be ``onerous'' on the Postal Service; and
WHEREAS, the Postal Service should be subject to the veterans'
preference provisions; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation that would provide additional protections
and other enhancements to veterans' preference and that such
legislation should include the Postal Service and the Postmaster
General be informed of our strong opposition to his language directed
to the Postal Board of Governors.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 275--LEGISLATIVE
to amend paragraph (f) of rule 21 of the rules of the convention
WHEREAS, vocational rehabilitation programs and job placement of
veterans are closely interrelated; and
WHEREAS, under rule 21(f) of the DAV's National Rules of the
Convention, the Committee on Employment does not have jurisdiction over
vocational rehabilitation issues pertaining to the program under
Chapter 31 of title 38, United States Code; and
WHEREAS, it would be more practical to have the Committee on
Employment address these vocational rehabilitation issues in National
Convention; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the National Interim Employment
Committee, meeting on July 28, 1996, recommend to the 1996 National
Convention that Rule 21 (f) be amended to give the Convention Committee
on Employment jurisdiction over vocational rehabilitation under Chapter
31 by striking from the last sentence in paragraph (f) the words
``education'' and `'except those provided by Title 38, U.S. Code'' and
by striking the commas preceding these words.
------
Commander McMasters. You've heard the motion. Is there
support? Mike 3.
NEC 1st District Alternate Frank J. Drogo. Frank Drogo,
alternate National Executive Committeeman, makes a motion to
accept the report.
Commander McMasters. The motion has been made. You support
the motion? Mike 3, the motion has already been made. Do you
support the motion?
NEC Drogo. Oh! I second it.
Commander McMasters. Thank you. The motion has been made
and supported. Ready for the question? Ready for the question?
All in favor, signify by Aye; opposed. That's carried.
[Applause.].
Ladies and gentlemen, please rise, and I will ask Chaplain
Wilkie to lead us in prayer.
Chaplain Wilkie. Let us pray. We are grateful indeed this
morning for the activities of the day. We're indeed grateful
that words to have meaning, especially when we come to You and
find out Your direction. We're especially grateful that
character is meaningful, and that there is character in this
organization. We're grateful for those who have led us today.
Pray that You will give us an opportunity for refreshment.
Bring us back ready to take care of business in our next
session. Amen.
Commander McMasters. The convention stands in recess until
1:30.
[Whereupon, the meeting recessed at 11:55 o'clock a.m.,
July 29, 1996.]
SECOND BUSINESS SESSION
The Second Business Session of the 75th National Convention
of the Disabled American Veterans convened in the Grand
Ballroom of the New Orleans Hilton Riverside, New Orleans,
Louisiana, Monday afternoon, July 29, 1996, and was called to
order at 1:30 p.m. by Commander Thomas A. McMaster III.
Commander Thomas A. McMasters III. The convention will
please come to order. Please join me in the salute to the flag.
[Salute to the flag.]
Commander McMasters. Chaplain, will you please lead us in
prayer.
Chaplain Wilkie. Let us pray. Again, Father, we than You
for allowing us the time of refreshment. We thank You also for
the opportunity that You have afforded us in this great hour to
consider again the business affairs of this convention. Enable
us especially to be aware of those who employ our veterans as
we recognize them. Help us to be aware, O God, of the
opportunities we have in so many ways to be of service.
Direct the decisions we make. Amen.
Commander McMasters. Please be seated.
Earlier this morning, we adopted the Rules of the
Convention probably improperly. What we have done is we've
approved the amendment, and at this time, I'm going to call on
Mr. Jim Tanner on Mike 3 to actually restate his motion, and
we're going to adopt the Rules as amended. And I think that's
what we're going to do at this time. Mr. Tanner?
Okay. We will continue. I'll introduce Mr. Gorman for his
remarks. Dave has been with the DAV for 25 years, both in the
National Service and Legislative Departments. We are fortunate
indeed to have someone with Dave's discretion, intelligence and
practical know-how at the helm of our team in Washington.
Dave's professional DAV career began in 1971 when he became
a national service officer shortly after his discharge from the
U.S. Army. He was seriously wounded by a Viet Cong land mine
explosion while on patrol in the central area of South Vietnam.
His wounds required amputation of both legs.
After three years as an NSO in Boston and Providence, Dave
was assigned to the DAV National Appeals staff in Washington,
D.C. in 1975, becoming supervisor of the staff in 1981.
Later, he assumed management duties in the DAV's National
Service Program at National Service and Legislative
Headquarters. He was promoted to assistant national legislative
director for medical affairs in 1983 and to deputy national
legislative director in 1994.
In 1995, Dave was named executive director of our
Washington Headquarters, taking over day-to-day management of
our service, legislative, volunteer and employment operations.
And this will be Dave's first annual report in that capacity to
the National Convention.
Mr. Gorman. [Applause.]
Executive Director David W. Gorman. Thank you very much.
National Commander McMasters, distinguished guests, and, of
course, delegates to this 75th National Convention: As the
executive director of the DAV's Washington Headquarters, it is
truly my honor and privilege to be able to present to you this
annual report to the 75th National Convention of the Disabled
American Veterans.
First, I want to thank you, Tom, for his inspiring
leadership and his steadfast commitment to the DAV and our
mission of service and hope to disabled veterans and their
families.
I also want to express my deep respect and sincere
gratitude to National Adjutant Art Wilson. I can't say enough
about how vital his resolute guidance, wise counsel and rock-
solid support have been for me personally and for the rest of
us in our efforts on a daily basis to serve you and your
families.
None of what we have been able to accomplish in Washington
would be possible without the outstanding work accomplished by
Rick Patterson and his great staff in Cold Spring, Kentucky. So
thanks, Rick, for that.
And to Auxiliary National Commander Barb Hicks and National
Adjutant Maria Tedrow, my sincere thanks. Without the Auxiliary
and all the effort they put forth, we would not be nearly as
successful as we are.
As we gather here in New Orleans to celebrate our 75th
National Convention and retrace the DAV's magnificent history,
I find myself standing in awe of how one individual's vision,
together with a small but totally dedicated and committed group
of World War I veterans untied in a common bond, gave birth to
the organization we all love so much today.
Yet, in reflecting on that truly extraordinary achievement,
I find myself looking also toward the future as well. It is a
future that holds tremendous promise and presents us with a
great many challenges in the bargain. The various programs and
services that we provide to you on a day-to-day basis are not
only geared toward meeting the immediate and the sometimes
unique needs of America's veterans and their families, but they
are being constantly evaluated, upgraded and improved so we can
continue to meet our future challenges as well.
Let me just highlight a few of those for you now, and you
can get much more detailed information from the various annual
reports from the department directors that are available in the
DAV Public Relations Office. As you all know, our National
Service Program under the above and steady direction of Ken
Wolfe, is not only the largest of the organization's
initiatives, but is also the backbone of the DAV and is what
our reputation of service and excellence is built on.
For sure, your service program and the national service
officers who make it the best it can be, will play a
significant role in helping us live up to our potential and
meet the challenges we face now and for many years to come. In
several important ways, what Ken and his staff have
accomplished will have a profound impact on our future.
Not only is our national service officer corps growing, but
the quality of our younger NSOs keeps improving as well.
National Adjutant Wilson's commitment to service and to
excellence was the single driving force that gave birth to the
DAV National Service officer Academy that's located in Denver,
Colorado. The Academy provides the foundation for the training
of our NSOs so the DAV can continue to provide today's veterans
as well as tomorrow's unequalled quality representation.
Since that first group of 23 NSO trainees entered the
Academy in July of 1994, three classes totalling 77 NSO
trainees in all have graduated and have been assigned to work
in our DAV national service offices across the country under
the direct supervision and the professional guidance of
seasoned NSOs. Class 4, consisting of 21 trainees, is currently
undergoing training and will graduate on August 23rd, just a
little less than a month away.
In addition to ensuring that your NSOs and other staff get
the quality training they need, it's essential that DAV
management be equipped to provide top-notch leadership as well.
Earlier this year, the entire DAV management team, comprised of
supervisory and time ever to participate in a very
comprehensive week-long program aimed at honing their
leadership and management skills. And I want to say to you it
was a tremendous success.
While we're talking about the National Service Program, I'd
like to take just a minute to show you two DAV public service
announcements that the National Communications Department has
produced in support of our NSOs. So please, take a look for a
moment at the TV screens on either side of the stage.
[Video presentation.]
Executive Director Gorman. They were great, weren't they?
And from all indications, both of those PSAs got tremendous
play across the country. And for that, of course, I'd like to
thank our National Communications Director, Tom Keller, and his
staff for those spots and for all the work they do in
continuing support of all of our programs.
In particular, I'd like to offer a special word of thanks
and appreciation to Associate National Director of
Communications Dave Autry. Dave's presence and day-to-day
involvement in the goings-on in Washington make him a very
special and valuable asset to our staff.
Another valued member of our very fine staff in the
Washington Headquarters is Administrative Assistant Daryl
Richardson. I don't know how she managed to do it on a day-to-
day basis, but somehow she manages to keep things running
smoothly amid all the chaos and hubbub. So my heartfelt thanks
goes out to Daryl.
I'd be remiss, of course, if I didn't recognize and extend
a very special thank you to the National Service Foundation and
the Charitable Service Trust, whose commitment and
contributions to our National Service Program has made the job
of providing service to veterans that much easier.
Later on during the convention, you'll be hearing a lot
more about our legislative battles, but I want to say a word
now about Rick Schultz and your DAV legislative team. We all
owe these fine gentlemen a world of thanks for warding off the
many vicious attacks on our benefits being posed in Washington.
With continuing efforts under way to cut funding for veterans'
programs government shutdowns, schemes to tax and means test
our service-connected disability compensation, and people
always looking for ways to do away with the VA health care
system, it's been a really rough year.
And although the past year hasn't produced much in terms of
new meaningful legislation, it has been tremendously successful
in terms of our grass-roots efforts. Our benefits protection
teams and DAV and Auxiliary members, as well as their families,
have done a magnificent job of convincing their elected
officials to back off from the many horrible and potentially
devastating legislative proposals. Only swift action by all of
you could have managed to kill morally wrong and mean-spirited
schemes like termination disability compensation to certain
mentally incompetent veterans.
If what we keep hearing from groups like the Concord
Coalition is any indication at all, we're going to have our
work cut out for us, no matter who's in the White House or
which party is in control of Congress next year. Let's face it:
The farther we get away from war, the less our elected
officials and policy makers remember the sacrifices made by
veterans the ongoing obligation a grateful nation has toward
us.
And while you're at it, take a look at who makes up
Congress, and you'll discover there are fewer and fewer
veterans among our lawmakers today.
There are some folks out there who think veteran's program
have ducked the budget ax for far too long. They want to turn
our disability compensation system into some kind of an
insurance annuity program run by the private sector, and they
want to shut the doors of the VA health care system and our VA
hospitals.
We need to keep continually reminding Congress of the
importance of veterans' programs, and with your help we'll
continue to do just that.
Your Employment Department, headed by Ron Drach, is making
sure your voice is heard on a number of issues, such as
homeless veterans, many of whom have service-connected
disabilities that have contributed to their plight. Naturally,
much of our efforts are focused on defending veterans'
employment rights and maintaining job training and employment
assistance programs, such as those administered by the
Department of Labor, as well as the VA Vocational
Rehabilitation Program and the Transition Assistance Program
and Disabled Transition Assistance Program for separating
military personnel.
Handling employment-related legislative and oversight
issues, with particular emphasis on service-connected disabled
veterans involves monitoring several agencies and pending
legislation, as well as working with the executive branch and
Congress on program development and oversight.
In addition to developing legislative testimony before
congressional committees on issues relating to employment
rights, job training programs, vocational rehabilitation, small
business initiatives and programs for homeless veterans. Ron
works closely with your national legislative staff as they
appear before Congress on issues affecting veterans; benefits
and programs.
DAV volunteer programs just keep on growing and getting
better under Bruce Nitsche's guiding hand. Our VA Voluntary
Service Program, Hospital Service Coordinator Program, and the
DAV Transportation Network continue to be the envy of many
others across the country. During the past year alone, DAV
volunteer drivers logged nearly 18 million miles, taking nearly
half a million veterans to and from VA medical facilities for
much-needed health care. That's a tremendous accomplishment,
and each and every one of you who are involved in that program
should be very proud, and I know I am. [Applause.]
And as you know from the video you saw this morning and
Adjutant Wilson's report, our Transportation Network has just
put 141 brand-new Ford vans on the road to continue service to
veterans. That makes 556 that DAV has donated to VA medical
centers nationwide since 1987, and Ford has generously donated
an additional 11 vans that will hit the road in August.
The extremely important VAVS Program which involves so many
of you brings hope an light into the lives of hospitalized
veterans and their families on a daily basis. In the past year
alone, DAV and Auxiliary volunteers donated an incredible two
and a quarter million hours of VAVS service. That's the yearly
equivalent, ladies and gentlemen, of 1100 full-time VA
employees with an estimated value of $28 million in hourly
wages alone. [Applause.]
So we should all again take great pride in the fact that if
it were not for the DAV and our Auxiliary members, the
hospitalized veterans across this great country wouldn't be
nearly as well off while they're hospitalized as they are.
And our National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic
just simply seems to be getting bigger and better every year as
it continues to change the lives of severely disabled veterans.
This event really serves as an opportunity at rehabilitation in
the nontraditional sense of medical care. After all, if
severely disabled veterans can face and meet the challenge head
on of coming down the snow-covered slopes of a mountain,
surely, in their minds, they can face the challenges of
addressing their disabilities in a positive way.
This year has been a tough one, ladies and gentlemen, and
no one expects 1997 to be any easier. But you can all rest a
little easy in knowing that DAV advocacy is top notch, and it's
recognized as such by members of Congress, the VA and other
influential policy makers in Washington. When the DAV speaks,
they listen. They listen because your Washington staff has
earned the reputation, each and every one of them, as highly
trained professionals who are committed to excellence when it
comes to advocacy for their fellow disabled veterans. And that
excellence and that commitment to cause extends all the way
across our national service officer programs and to each and
every national service officer who is out there working on a
daily basis trying to get the benefits each of you and our
membership deserves.
And I might add that it doesn't hurt one lick for those in
Washington to know that each of your program directors carry
just a little bit more credibility due to the fact that each
and every one of them are all service-connected combat-disabled
veterans.
To be sure, the folks at National Service and Legislative
Headquarters in Washington have done an outstanding job of
providing first-rate programs and services to you and your
families, and that's what we're there for. But you know what?
We in Washington couldn't do a blessed thing without you, our
membership, and for that, we thank you.
In conclusion, and on behalf of the entire Washington
headquarters staff, I just want to again say thank you for
making it all possible. Thank you. [Applause.]
Commander McMasters. Thank you, David. I can't think of a
nicer guy I'd rather go to Bosnia with than David Gorman.
At this time, the Chair will entertain a motion to adopt
Mr. Gorman's report. Mike 1.
NEC 4th District Albert R. Fanslau. NEC District 4 moves
the adoption of the report.
Commander McMasters. We have the motion. Is there support?
Mike 3.
Mr. Alan W. Bowers. Alan Bowers, commander, Massachusetts,
seconds the motion.
Commander McMasters. We have a motion and support to accept
Mr. Gorman's report. All in favor, signify by Aye; opposed.
That's carried.
[The following written annual report was submitted by Mr.
Kenneth D. Wolfe, National Service Director:]
As National Service Director, it is my privilege to report on the
achievements of the National Service Department to the 75th national
Convention of the Disabled American Veterans.
During the past 75 years since DAV's inception, our forefounders
comprised of World War I veterans and those DAV leaders who have
followed in their footsteps have witnessed an evolution of change in
the world of veterans' benefits. The DAV's mission, however, remains
constant, steadfast, and unwavering: caring for those who have borne
the burden of war. Since our beginning, one constant has been the need
for the DAV. Recent reminders of this need include Panama, Grenada, the
Persian Gulf War, Somalia, the peace keeping mission in Bosnia, and the
senseless, tragic bombing of the U.S. military barracks in Dhahran,
Saudi Arabia. The men and women serving our country can be assured the
DAV will be ready and able to assist them should the need arise.
The National Service Department continues to carefully monitor
activity within the Department of Veterans Affairs and other government
agencies.
Proposals to change the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities have
been ongoing. Currently, the VA is going through the process to update
and revise the schedule making sure it reflects current medical
knowledge and other factors. We review proposed rule changes as they
appear in the Federal Register very closely to protect the integrity of
this very sensitive and complex document. In those instances where we
disagree with proposed rule changes because they would be harmful to
veterans, we respond oftentimes with expert medical opinions to support
our position. In turn protecting the rating decisions of veterans in
receipt of service-connected disability compensation.
We have serious concerns regarding the General Accounting Office's
(GAO) recent intrusion into this time tested and proven system of
compensating the nation's wartime disabled veterans. We fear GAO's
interest is strictly related to cost savings without regard for
disabled veterans. We took the initiative to meet with officials from
GAO to express our concerns and we expect follow-up meetings.
This past year the Department of Veterans Affairs planned to
radically restructure its benefits delivery system. I can tell you, DAV
adopted a position early in their development stages putting the VA on
notice that we would oppose any changes that would reduce services to
veterans or hinder and restrict their access to the system. We insisted
that any changes must produce meaningful improvement in the quality and
timeliness of claims adjudication. The VA's plan called for reducing
the number of claims processing centers by more than half of the
existing regional offices. The VA has informed us this initiative has
been delayed until further notice.
dav nso training academy
The DAV's NSO Training Academy located in Denver, Colorado, grew
out of a need to revitalize the DAV's National Service Officer corps.
On July 11, 1994, the first class of 23 NSO Trainees began their
academic studies. University of Colorado at Denver professors provide
college credit courses in medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology,
allowing our NSOs to command a sound working medical knowledge when
assisting veterans in developing their disability claims. Additionally,
they are taught theories of persuasion and argumentation followed by a
course in public speaking preparing them to verbally present the merits
of a veteran's claim before the Department of Veterans Affairs, Social
Security Administration, and various military boards and panels. DAV
National Service Officers must also be proficient in preparing written
briefs in support of their claimants. To assist them in that process
they are provided a course in legal reasoning and brief preparation.
In addition to the instruction provided by the University of
Colorado, seasoned DAV National Service Officers provide detailed
instruction, teaching what benefits are available, who is eligible and
how NSO's assist veterans and their dependents in applying. Trainees
also receive instruction on the proper application of pertinent VA laws
and regulations to include the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities. The
in-depth instruction provided at DAV's Training Academy prepares DAV
trainees to effectively serve as veterans' advocates. To date three
classes have graduated from the Academy totaling 77 National Service
Officer Trainees. Class IV consisting of 21 NSO Trainees is currently
in progress and will graduate on August 23, 1996. For three quarters of
a century now, the DAV has been out there providing a service to
veterans and their families, that remains unmatched anywhere in this
country. And with this new wave of DAV NSOs entering the fray, our
organization is laying the groundwork to continue that fine tradition
of service on into the future. Far and away, we're giving our newest
employees the best training available in the field of veterans'
affairs.
In this ever-changing world of high technology the way our National
Service Officers conduct training has also changed. Thanks to a
donation by the Commanders and Adjutants Association, our instructors
are using state-of-the-art computer-based imaging training programs.
This innovative training allows DAV's instructors to maximize the
amount of information they teach during each training module. I would
like to take this opportunity to thank President Thomas J. Campbell and
the Commanders and Adjutants Association for their support during the
past year.
I am pleased to be able to inform you that we are evaluating the
need for an additional class which would begin in 1997 if necessary.
dav structured and continuing training program
Our training does not end when an NSO is rehabilitated. Your DAV
leadership continues to recognize the importance and value of an
ongoing program to ensure our NSOs are the best qualified to represent
all veterans and their dependents. The laws, regulations, and
procedures of the Department of Veterans Affairs are always changing,
and we must be prepared. You deserve the best, and we will continue to
provide the best because of our emphasis on continuing education for
all NSOs.
The VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities was first targeted for
training and all NSOs have, since the introduction of that program,
completed the course of training in the proper evaluation of service-
connected disabilities. Following this convention, we will introduce to
all rehabilitated NSOs a new additional two-year program, emphasizing
the VA's claims adjudication process. This program will stress VA
adjudication procedures and the importance of proper application of
U.S. Court of Veterans Appeals precedent decisions in claims work. As
in the past, each NSO will be required to participate fully, undergoing
rigorous tests to determine his or her level of proficiency. The
implementation of this new program will allow NSOs to stay abreast of
changes in VA regulations and keep them up to date on other pertinent
matters, especially the effect of U.S. Court of Veterans Appeals
decisions in the day-to-day adjudication of claims.
Although the DAV's purpose hasn't changed since DAV was founded,
the job of an NSO has drastically changed as a result of medical
advancements, the advent of the U.S. Court of Veterans Appeals, and the
implementation of high technology computer systems in use today. The
NSOs' resolve hasn't changed either; these men and women are committed
to doing everything possible to obtain the rightful benefits this
nation's veterans and their dependents are entitled to. This
determination is personified by the ongoing commitment of NSOs to excel
in their work, and objective they understand requires continual
updating of their skills through training.
management and leadership training
DAV employees are vital in fulfilling our mission. They deserve the
finest management and leadership we can provide. National Adjutant
Arthur H. Wilson recognized this training would be vital to our
continued success. The University of Colorado International Training
Academy custom tailored the Management and Leadership Training Program
to fit DAV's needs. It was decided that all DAV management personnel,
both at National Headquarters and National Service and Legislative
Headquarters, and DAV's National Service Office Supervisors and
Assistants would benefit from this important training. For the first
time in the history of DAV, the entire management team was brought
together as part of an integrated program to enhance our ability to do
what we do best--provide top quality service to disabled veterans and
their families.
We were taught the latest management and leadership skills starting
with managing personnel and how to motivate employees and get the job
done. We learned how to deal with change and conflict management. There
were classes in stress management, time management, and problem
solving. All of these courses were designed to improve how we deliver
DAV services.
Since last year's National Convention, diversity and sensitivity
training has been provided to all NSOs and support staff. We believe
that training, coupled with the management and leadership training,
will provide for a more professional and worker friendly office
environment which in turn will have a positive effect on productivity
and the quality of services provided by the Disabled American Veterans.
retirements
During this 75th historical year several National Service Officers
have chosen to enter into retirement. I would like to recognize and
thank them for their unselfish dedication and service to the Disabled
American Veterans and those veterans and families we serve. Bruce W.
Burgess, Supervisor, San Antonio, Texas; Richard A. Fret, Supervisor,
San Juan, Puerto Rico; Robert R. Jordan, Supervisor, West Los Angeles,
California; Samuel L. King, Supervisor, Muskogee, Oklahoma; Richard L.
Richards, Supervisor, Houston, Texas; Donald L. Savage, Supervisor,
Oakland, California; Craig A. Bridges, Assistant Supervisor, Oakland,
California; Charles Ward, Assistant Supervisor, Louisville, Kentucky;
Gerald S. Klein, St. Petersburg, Florida; James M. Waters, Newark, New
Jersey; Raymond E. Lawhorn, Chicago, Illinois; Kenneth Morris, Sr., St.
Petersburg, Florida; Edward R. Heath, Staff Counsel, St. Petersburg,
Florida; and Edward J. Kowalczyk, Chief of Claims, DAV Court of
Veterans Appeals Office. During their many years of advocacy, thousands
of veterans and their families have reaped the benefit of their
knowledge and service. Speaking on behalf of all of those claimants and
the Disabled American Veterans, we wish them the very best in their
retirement years.
deaths
On a sadder note, National Service Officer Nathaniel Hart, assigned
to our Oakland, California, National Service Office, passed away on
August 7, 1995, ending 24 years of dedicated service to the DAV. NSO
Hart is survived by his wife, Edna, and sons, Kevin and Nathaniel, Jr.
National Service Officer Gerald Gregory, assigned to our Boston,
Massachusetts, National Service Office, was stricken with sudden
illness and taken from our ranks on May 28, 1996. NSO Gregory served
the DAV 11 years and is survived by his wife, Donna, and sons, Gerald,
Jr., Christopher, and Michael.
court of veterans appeals
The DAV Court of Veterans Appeals Office (COVA) has undergone
significant changes during this past year. Chief of Claims Edward J.
Kowalczyk retired from the DAV after 28 years of service. Following his
departure, Stephen L. Purcell was transferred form his assignment at
the Veterans Consortium Pro Bono Program to the DAV COVA Office, where
he joined Judicial Appeals Representatives James W. Stewart and Ronald
L. Smith. On June 3, 1996, National Service Officer Lennox E. Gilmer
was reassigned to the Veterans Consortium Pro Bono Program. This
program, where appeals are screened for referral to private attorneys
for representation before the Court, is beneficial to veterans and
their families, affording them legal representation at no cost. DAV is
pleased to support this worthwhile program. Also, in December of 1995,
the DAV COVA Office was relocated from Bowie, Maryland, to National
Service and Legislative Headquarters in Washington, D.C. While they are
not a part of the National Service and Legislative Headquarters staff,
their physical relocation resulted in a cost savings and placed our
COVA office in closer proximity to the U.S. Court of Veterans Appeals.
The number of appeals to the U.S. Court of Veterans Appeals began
to increase dramatically in the spring of 1996. DAV's Court of Veterans
Appeals Office has played a major role in generating the nearly 100
percent increase in appeals to the Court. DAV represents more claimants
than any other organization or individual. Prior to this year, DAV had
appealed to the Court in only those cases where it was requested to do
so by the claimant. Because the number of cases being decided by the
Board of Veterans Appeals (BVA) declined markedly in 1993 and 1994, the
number of cases which could potentially be appealed to the Court was
half of what it had been in earlier years. Chief Judge Frank Q. Nebeker
in testimony before the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee mentioned
reducing the number of judges of the U.S. Court of Veterans Appeals
from seven to five. During that same hearing the DAV testified that a
reduction in the number of judges at this time would be premature.
Two changes occurred during this year. Of significant impact the
Board of Veterans' Appeals began issuing many more decisions. As these
decisions were received by claimants, more and more veterans and
dependents began requesting COVA review. The majority of the increase
in appeals filed by our COVA Office is the result of a new review
program. In late 1995, the DAV COVA Office staff began reviewing BVA
decisions even before an appeal was requested by the claimant.
Decisions received by the DAV Board of Veterans' Appeals Office are
sent to the DAV COVA Office soon after they are issued. If the DAV COVA
staff believes the Board has made a reversible error in deciding the
case, a letter is sent to the claimant recommending that an appeal be
initiated. Our COVA staff continues to set the standard as it has since
the Court began.
social security disability insurance benefits
DAV National Service Officers provide representation before Social
Security Administrative Law Judges. From July 1, 1995, through June 30,
1996, National Service Officers represented 215 claimants. By applying
their knowledge of Social Security laws and regulations they
successfully obtained benefits in the amount of $3,173,703.00. DAV also
presents cases to the Social Security Appeals Council.
insurance
DAV National Service Officers assist claimants in filing for VA
insurance, applying for waiver of premiums and beneficiary insurance
proceeds. Our National Service Offices in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,
and St. Paul, Minnesota, continue to provide outstanding representation
at the VA Insurance Centers. DAV NSOs appeared before the VA 566 times.
Their representative from July 1, 1995 through June 30, 1996 resulted
in monetary benefits to DAV claimants in the amount of $4,586,703.00.
physical evaluation boards
National Service Officers in San Diego, California, San Antonio,
Texas, and Washington, D.C., provide representation to military
retirees and active duty personnel. Collectively they represented 943
cases before Physical Evaluation Boards and Discharge Review Boards
resulting in monetary benefits in the amount of $8,459,068.00.
administrative reviews
The DAV's Administrative Review Program continues to be a showcase
for the technical expertise and tenacity of our NSOs. Administrative
reviews, which are not a part of the VA's appeals process, are
requested upon a finding of clear and unmistakable error in a rating
decision.
Typically, an NSO, during an examination of a veteran's claims
folder will encounter a rating decision which they believe to be in
error. NSOs refer these cases to National Service and Legislative
Headquarters. Following a review by the National Service Department,
appropriate cases reflecting clear and unmistakable error are referred
to VA Central Office. During the past year, 25 cases have been
submitted for Administrative Review. Only one has not received
favorable consideration resulting in a 94.7 percent allowance rate. We
are optimistically awaiting responses on six pending cases that have
yet to be decided. The Administrative Review Program continues to be a
very effective method of resolving complex cases involving matters of
policy and procedures. Our NSOs are encouraged to bring interesting
cases to our attention.
board of veterans' appeals
Since the 1995 National Convention, the DAV Board of Veterans'
Appeals staff, with Supervisor Jerry Cox at the helm, has had to
weather several storms, both literally and figuratively. Approximately
21 federal workdays were lost due to the government-wide furloughs, as
well as the blizzard of 1996. Although the Board was essentially
shutdown, there was no reduction in the number of claimants filing
appeals. Notwithstanding the lost workdays, for FY 96 both the BVA as
well as the DAV expect to exceed the number of cases processed during
FY 95. In FY 95 the Board issued decisions in 28,195 cases. For FY 96
through June 30, 1996, the Board already issued 24,701 decisions and is
on pace to decide in excess of 32,000 cases. Despite these efforts,
there remains an unacceptably large number of appeals pending on the
BVA docket. At the end of FY 95 there were 58,943 appeals which had
been certified for BVA review with an additional 27,116 awaiting
certification. This adds up to an astonishing 86,059 cases pending in
the appellate pipeline. In familiar terms, this is called a
``backlog.''
Steps instituted at BVA to help alleviate the backlog of appeals
includes a restructuring of the Board by setting up geographical
decision teams and the hiring of approximately 125 new attorneys.
Additionally, with respect to hearings, the Board held 553 Travel Board
hearings in FY 95. In FY 96 the Board projects approximately 2,800
Travel Board hearings will be held. Further, while the Board conducted
154 Central Office hearings in FY 95, for FY 96 through June 30, 1996,
the Board has already held 209 Central Office hearings. Recently, the
Board issued an action plan to significantly increase the number of
Central Office hearings from 15 to 48 per week. Further, the Board has
held 100 video conference hearings since July 1995 and plans to hold
another 80 this summer. The video conference hearings have been held at
the St. Petersburg, Florida, and Des Moines, Iowa, regional offices and
the Nashville, Tennessee, VA Medical Center. DAV is excited about this
new ``state of the art'' technology, which is still in the early
developmental state, because it promises to help address the backlog
and delays in appellate hearings.
The average processing time (the time it takes to issue a final
decision once a claimant has submitted a substantial appeal) is
currently 950 days if the appeal requires no remand, 1,425 days in
appeals involving one remand, and 1,836 days if more than one remand is
required. In FY 95, 47.6 percent of all cases reviewed by the Board
were remanded. In FY 96 through June 30, 1996, approximately 43 percent
of the cases have been remanded. The DAV continues to be concerned with
the number of cases being remanded.
In the face of all these changes and challenges, the DAV BVA staff
continues to perform impressive on behalf of the claimants we
represent. The DAV was the representative of record in nearly 40
percent of all appeals heard before the Board and has an allowance rate
of 23 percent. No other organization has more appeals granted than the
DAV again this year.
computerization
This past year has seen a continuing expansion in the
computerization of the National Service Program. In addition to the on-
line service from WESTLAW for our Court of Veterans Appeals Office, the
National Appeals and National Service Offices are continuing their
integration efforts with the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Our Board of Veterans' Appeals Office has access to computer-based
laws, regulations and text of all BVA decisions. Although BVA decisions
are not precedent setting in nature, it is important that the language
and logic utilized by our appeals staff provide the most concise and
supportive presentation to support veterans' appeals.
Nearly every National Service Office is now provided with access to
the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) Group which includes the VA
TARGET and Automate Reference Material System (ARMS). The TARGET system
provides National Service Officers access to the status of claims for
those claimants DAV represents without having to have the VA claims
folder. ARMS provides each National Service Office with access to the
most current version of VA regulations and manual citations. ARMS
provides a limited inquiry system which allows cross referencing
between laws, regulations, and manual citations.
Finally, there is an ongoing effort to provide personal computers
for each DAV National Service Officer to improve their efficiency and
knowledge. As a part of this project a ``user friendly'' National
Service Office data base, diary, and report system is being tested. The
intent of this program is to decrease the frequency of handling files
allowing more time for NSOs to provide direct services to veterans.
agent orange
Between 1982 and 1995, the Department of Veterans Affairs recognize
that veterans expose to dioxin and other herbicide agents during active
military, naval, and air service in Vietnam were incurring certain
types of diseases in numbers far exceeding those incurred by the
general population. As a result, the VA established regulations to
facilitate claims for service connection on a presumptive basis for
those diseases. The list of these diseases has been expanded on a
continuing basis a the scientific community has raised the question of
a statistically significant risk between a disease and exposure to
dioxin or other herbicides.
In May of this year, President Clinton announced that Vietnam
veterans afflicted with prostate cancer and acute and subacute
peripheral neuropathy will be entitled to service connection based on
their exposure to herbicides.
Additionally, the President announced that the Department of
Veterans Affairs will be proposing legislation to provide an
appropriate remedy for children of Vietnam veterans who suffer from
spina bifida. Just as the DAV was in the forefront in requesting that
the VA recognize entitlement to benefits for Veterans who suffered from
diseases related to herbicide exposure, the DAV has already initiated
dialogue with government leaders on this issue, concerning the health
care needs of children with spina bifida. Moreover, the DAV has
suggested the formation of a committee of government and nongovernment
experts, to include representatives from veterans' service
organizations, to examine the prospect of providing recompense to
individuals or family members harmed as a result of a veterans's
military service.
prosthetic and special disabilities programs
In 1990 the Department of Veterans Affairs established a DAV
supported, congressionally mandated Secretary's Advisory Committee on
Prosthetic and Special Disabilities Program. Prior to his appointment
as Executive Director of DAV's Washington Headquarters, David W. Gorman
served on this committee. In March 1996, Secretary of Veterans Affairs
Jesse Brown appointed Deputy National Service Director Jerry P.
Steelman to this very important committee. The committee has made
several recommendations in the areas of spinal cord injuries and blind
rehabilitation expansion of VICTORS (Visual Impairment Center to
Optimize Remaining Sight) and to establish an eye care center of
excellence. This committee has been instrumental in maintaining the
strength and integrity of rehabilitation and prosthetic programs.
persian gulf veterans
In 1994, legislation was passed and signed into law authorizing
payment of disability compensation to Persian Gulf veterans with
chronic undiagnosed illnesses. The Department of Veterans Affairs soon
after implemented regulations to establish entitlement to compensation
for veterans with symptoms of undiagnosed illnesses which became
manifest to a degree of 10 percent or more within two years after
leaving the Persian Gulf. The symptoms of undiagnosed illness included
fatigue, muscle and joint pains, breathing problems and
gastrointestinal problems. DAV National Service Officers are reviewing
all rating board actions on Persian Gulf War veterans to detect
patterns of illness and need for additional government actions. Because
of the low allowance rate (5 percent) and our concern leading to a
review of all of the previously denied claims, we are recommending a
longer presumptive period of more than two years.
The DAV was in the forefront advocating action for compensation and
special health care for Gulf War veterans, and we will continue to
monitor actions by both Congress and the VA to ensure continued service
for these veterans of our most recent war. Jerry D. Cox, Supervisor of
the DAV National Appeals Office, at the Board of Veterans Appeal's,
represented DAV serving on the Persian Gulf Expert Scientific
Committee. This committee provides legislative recommendations to the
Secretary of Veterans Affairs regarding Persian Gulf illness.
women veterans
DAV continues to be concerned and committed to the goal of
supporting our nation's women veterans. National Service Officer
Patricia A. Bracciale serves on this congressionally mandated VA
Advisory Committee for Women Veterans addressing such problems as
timely and appropriate gender specific health care for women veterans.
Some of the issues are Vietnam women veterans reproductive health
research, plight of homeless women veterans, and a constellation of
other pertinent issues specific to women veterans. This committee was
in the process of drafting its 1996 report to Congress when the
November and December 1995 furloughs occurred. That, together with the
lack of congressional funding, has resulted in no committee meetings
since June 1995. In spite of this temporary setback to the VA's Women
Veterans Advisory Committee, the DAV is resolved to support solutions
to those problems faced by our women veterans.
hospital service coordinators department service officer training
Hospital Service Coordinators (HSC) and Department Service Officers
(DOSs) are on the front line dealing with veterans on a daily basis.
Many times they are the first contact a veteran has with the Disabled
American Veterans. Certainly, it is important to DAV and the veterans
we serve that these individuals are kept knowledgeable about veterans'
benefit entitlement programs and the DAV.
During this past year, two HSC/DSO Training Programs were
conducted. Presentations were given by Washington Headquarters
Executive Director David Gorman, National Legislative Director Richard
Schultz, National Employment Director Ronald Drach, National Director
of Voluntary Services Bruce Nitsche, and Assistant to the Executive
Director for Membership and Purchasing Charles Luttjohann.
Additionally, National Service Officers Robert Plante, Supervisor of
DAV's National Service Office in Chicago, Illinois, and Harry (Skip)
Erway, Supervisor of DAV's National Service Office in Louisville,
Kentucky, provided instruction on veterans' benefit entitlements.
We have had an overwhelming response from HSCs and DSOs expressing
their thanks for providing this very important training. To date, 147
HSCs and DSOs have received this valuable training. We are currently in
the process of updating training materials and hope to be able to
provide additional training during the ensuing year. We would like to
express our thanks to the Departments of California and Colorado, which
hosted this training, as well as those departments who sponsored
participants.
information seminars
DAV NSOs provide outreach services by conducting information
seminars. Many DAV chapters host these very informative meetings as a
way to increase public awareness, strengthen their membership, and,
most importantly, provide benefit information and claims assistance to
veterans in their community. From July 1, 1995, through June 30, 1996,
NSOs conducted 52 information seminars and provided assistance to 3,650
veterans and their families. We have directed our NSOs to expand their
efforts promoting chapters and departments to take advantage of the
Information Seminar Program as it is a vital part of DAV's mission.
transition assistance programs and disabled transition assistance
programs
As the military continues downsizing, more demands have been placed
on our NSOs involved in the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) and the
Disabled Transition Assistance Program (DTAP). DAV NSO conduct
briefings giving an overview on VA entitlement programs. When
requested, they conduct service medical record reviews and assist in
the filing of claims for VA disability compensation and other benefits.
During the past year, NSOs and DSOs have provided transition assistance
at 115 military bases and have briefed 104,433 military personnel
resulting in 81,614 compensation claims being filed with the VA.
homeless veterans
As we celebrate DAV'S Diamond Anniversary, many veterans have
little or nothing to rejoice about, for they are homeless. The number
of homeless veterans is a growing concern to the DAV. Recent statistics
show that veterans make up approximately one-third of the homeless
population. One must wonder whether there is a relationship between
homeless veterans and their military service. Did that service somehow
contribute to psychological and adjustment problems? Regardless of the
cause, DAV has once again stepped forward participating in stand-downs.
During stand-downs NSOs provide assistance that takes on many different
forms including obtaining medical care, filing disability claims,
assistance in obtaining food, shelter, clothing, and networking with
Local Veterans Employment Representatives (LVER) and Disabled Veterans
Outreach Program Specialists (DVOP) for employment assistance.
In some areas they are able to make referrals to DAV departments
and chapters that have homeless programs in place. By caring enough to
make a difference, our NSO, DAV members, departments, and chapters will
help bring dignity back into the lives of those men and women who
helped to defend our country.
incarcerated veterans
The DAV recognizes the importance of rehabilitation, and for this
reason many NSOs have become involved in programs at correctional
facilities. The assistance rendered by our National Service Officers
covers a wide range, from claims representation to education and
training, preparing them to reenter society. It is certainly a
worthwhile service, and I commend those NSO who are active in this
area.
native american veterans
DAV National Service Officers through a variety of programs have
been providing outreach service to Native Americans. Some National
Service Officers make regularly scheduled visits to reservations where
they provide benefit information and assist in the filing of claims.
Regardless of the type of service provided, DAV NSOs play an important
role in making sure that Native Americans receive those benefits to
which they are entitled as a result of their military service.
national veterans training institute
Our National Service Officers in Denver, Colorado, have been
involved with the University of Colorado at Denver, serving as
instructors at the National Veterans Training Institute (NVTI). To date
4, 320 Local Veterans Employment Representatives and Disabled Veterans
Outreach Program Specialists have been provided veterans benefits
entitlement training. During their instruction, our NSOs stress claims
development, medical evidence, secondary disabilities, vocational
rehabilitation and education, and other related topics designed to
provide LVERs and DVOP a working knowledge of the VA's benefit delivery
system. By networking with LVERs and DVOP, DAV NSO nationwide reach out
to a greater number of veterans providing the very best claims
representation available. We look forward to continuing our
relationship with the National Veterans Training Institute on into the
future.
summary
The accomplishments reflected by this report were made possible
through the combined efforts of all DAV and DAV Auxiliary members. Each
member's efforts, whether at the chapter of department level or at a VA
medical center, help DAV to fulfill its mission.
Hospital Service Coordinators, Department Service Officers and
Chapter Service Officers play an important role in DAV's success. Their
direct contact and assistance to veterans and their families in the
initial stage of a VA claim is of tremendous benefit to our National
Service Officers. By everyone caring enough to make a difference, DAV
continues to provide service second to none.
The Service Department during this past year has been very
fortunate to have the support of National Commander Thomas A.
McMasters, III, the National Line Officers, National Executive
Committee, National Finance Committee, and the National Service
Foundation and the Charitable Service Trust. I can tell you without
question, their commitment to DAV's National Service Program is as
strong, if not stronger, than ever before. I would like to thank them
for that support.
The staff of your National Service Department has also changed
during this past year, and I would like to recognize another recent
retiree. On October 22, 1972, a young combat wounded Army veteran of
the Vietnam conflict joined DAV's NSO corps. He underwent his initial
phase of training at DAV's National Service Office, Lincoln, Nebraska,
Transferring in October of 1972 to DAV's National Service Office in San
Antonio, Texas. In 1974, he was promoted to supervisor of that office
and served in that capacity until his promotion to supervisor of DAV's
office in Chicago, Illinois. In October of 1990, he was appointed to
the position of personnel director at DAV's National Headquarters in
Cold Spring, Kentucky. On November 1, 1993, he was named field director
of the National Service Department at National Service and Legislative
Headquarters, Washington, D.C. I can tell you that National Service
Officer Darrel E. Babcock gave his all to the DAV and those veterans we
serve. His dedication and unselfish devotion to the DAV is without
question. On behalf of the National Service Department, I would like to
express our sincere appreciation for a job well done and wish National
Service Officer Babcock the very best in his retirement.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the National Service
Officer corps and their support staffs for their devotion, compassion,
and unselfish service they display on the job daily. I know first hand
of their sacrifices. I also know they are successful because they
believe in DAV's mission.
On behalf of the National Service staff, we wish to thank National
Headquarters Executive Director Richard E. Patterson, and the
directors, managers, and employees of Cold Spring, Kentucky for their
assistance supporting the Service Department and your service programs.
The National Service Department works closely with the DAV
Auxiliary. I wish to take this opportunity to thank Auxiliary National
Commander Barbara Hicks, the Auxiliary Line Officers, and Auxiliary
National Adjutant Maria Tedrow for their support. We look forward to
working with the Auxiliary in the ensuing year.
I also wish to thank Washington Headquarters Executive Director
David W. Gorman for his guidance and leadership. His vast experience in
legislation and service has been extremely valuable as we plan for the
future.
At National Service and Legislative Headquarters networking with
all of DAV's program directors is vitally important in the daily
activity of your National Service staff. I would like to thank
Legislative Director Richard F. Schultz, Employment Director Ronald W.
Drach, Director of Voluntary Services Bruce G. Nitsche, Associate
National director of Communications David E. Autry and their staffs for
their support. That old adage ``by working together we will get the job
done'' is certainly true.
I would be remiss if I didn't personally thank the support staff at
National Service and Legislative Headquarters for their very efficient
assistance during this year of change. That assistance has been
invaluable to the Service Department.
I would also like to thank the National Service Department staff
who is charged with the responsibility of fulfilling DAV's chartered
purpose. This is being accomplished by Assistant National Service
Directors Anthony L. Baskerville and Michael J. Walsh, and Deputy
National Service Director Jerry P. Steelman. Each Member of the Service
Department has different areas of responsibility. As they fulfill those
responsibilities, the scope, depth, and direction of DAV's Service
Programs take shape, I am confident that your Service Department will
continue its efforts to improve DAV's Service Programs and in turn
fulfilling DAV's mission.
As we look back on the accomplishments of our 75th year, it becomes
apparent that the world we live in will continue to change. There will
be advancement in the field of medicine. And, yes, the highly technical
computers of today will become obsolete necessitating the DAV to once
again change how it conducts business. We must and will continue our
modernization program to ensure quality representation.
The success reflected throughout this report didn't just happen by
chance, National Adjutant Arthur H. Wilson has been there at every turn
providing his support, guidance, and encouragement. On behalf of the
entire National Service Department, I wish to thank him for his
outstanding leadership. . . .
In DAV's 75-year history, we have grown in stature and wisdom.
We've learned that history repeats itself and that, unfortunately,
there continues to be a need for the Disabled American Veterans to
remain strong. As our nation battles for freedom and world peace, the
price of that freedom continues to be high. The casualties American
troops have sustained in Bosnia and in the recent bombing in Saudi
Arabia make it clear that there will be a continuing need for DAV's
services. Your can be assured the DAV stands ready and our cause is
just. The DAV will be there for today's returning warriors just as it
was for you and me. In closing, the success achieved by each of our
National Service Offices is reflected in the statistical data of this
report.
RECAPITULATION OF SERVICE ACTIVITIES
July 1, 1995 through June 30, 1996
Montgomery, Alabama
New Service Connections 294
Compensation Increased 954
Compensation Maintained 1,253
Pension 516
Pension Maintained 102
Social Security 0
Education Benefits 304
Miscellaneous 91
Death Compensation 52
Death Pension 81
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 250
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 3,897
Total Monthly Increases $1,835,683.00
Total Retroactive Payments $24,959,721.15
Full Amount $26,795,404.15
VA Files Reviewed 4,186
Power of Attorneys 784
Interviews 1,793
Rating Board Appearances 2,322
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 3
New Claims 2,352
Membership 43
Phoenix, Arizona
New Service Connections 809
Compensation Increased 1,559
Compensation Maintained 1,647
Pension 258
Pension Maintained 76
Social Security 0
Education Benefits 846
Miscellaneous 160
Death Compensation 103
Death Pension 11
Insurance 2
Burial Allowances 373
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 5,844
Total Monthly Increases $3,205,179.00
Total Retroactive Payments $45,463,004.00
Full Amount $48,668,183.00
VA Files Reviewed 9,222
Power of Attorneys 1,530
Interviews 3,538
Rating Board Appearances 8,045
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 1
New Claims 3,285
Membership 120
Little Rock, Arkansas
New Service Connections 504
Compensation Increased 1,338
Compensation Maintained 1,372
Pension 621
Pension Maintained 140
Social Security 14
Education Benefits 459
Miscellaneous 204
Death Compensation 113
Death Pension 152
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 306
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 5,223
Total Monthly Increases $2,624,913.00
Total Retroactive Payments $34,423,951.00
Full Amount $37,048,864.00
VA Files Reviewed 9,366
Power of Attorneys 3,007
Interviews 4,416
Rating Board Appearances 5,817
Military Affairs 541
Social Security Activities 108
New Claims 4,878
Membership 209
W. Los Angeles, California
New Service Connections 839
Compensation Increased 1,143
Compensation Maintained 2,498
Pension 1,487
Pension Maintained 189
Social Security 3
Education Benefits 1,195
Miscellaneous 113
Death Compensation 121
Death Pension 390
Insurance 61
Burial Allowances 406
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 8,445
Total Monthly Increases $3,688,368.00
Total Retroactive Payments $49,343,811.00
Full Amount $53,032,179.00
VA Files Reviewed 9,844
Power of Attorneys 4,603
Interviews 5,567
Rating Board Appearances 6,407
Military Affairs 2,867
Social Security Activities 3
New Claims 6,126
Membership 81
San Francisco, California
New Service Connections 1,287
Compensation Increased 1,743
Compensation Maintained 1,924
Pension 198
Pension Maintained 37
Social Security 2
Education Benefits 393
Miscellaneous 222
Death Compensation 129
Death Pension 8
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 390
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 6,333
Total Monthly Increases $6,737,855.00
Total Retroactive Payments $52,565,854.00
Full Amount $59,303,709.00
VA Files Reviewed 7,121
Power of Attorneys 2,309
Interviews 3,338
Rating Board Appearances 5,642
Military Affairs 527
Social Security Activities 15
New Claims 3,914
Membership 199
Denver, Colorado
New Service Connections 1,122
Compensation Increased 1,234
Compensation Maintained 1,805
Pension 260
Pension Maintained 96
Social Security 0
Education Benefits 687
Miscellaneous 156
Death Compensation 69
Death Pension 39
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 286
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 5,754
Total Monthly Increases $2,943,377.00
Total Retroactive Payments $45,660,589.00
Full Amount $48,603,966.00
VA Files Reviewed 7,698
Power of Attorneys 1,852
Interviews 1,866
Rating Board Appearances 5,687
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 0
New Claims 2,753
Membersip 252
Hartford, Connecticut
New Service Connections 85
Compensation Increased 332
Compensation Maintained 593
Pension 48
Pension Maintained 226
Social Security 0
Education Benefits 121
Miscellaneous 13
Death Compensation 23
Death Pension 2
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 123
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 1,566
Total Monthly Increases $795,617.00
Total Retroactive Payments $10,149,536.20
Full Amount $10,945,153.20
VA Files Reviewed 2,604
Power of Attorneys 229
Interviews 494
Rating Board Appearances 1,189
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 0
New Claims 830
Membership 14
Washington, DC
New Service Connections 322
Compensation Increased 583
Compensation Maintained 904
Pension 95
Pension Maintained 210
Social Security 1
Education Benefits 274
Miscellaneous 48
Death Compensation 38
Death Pension 8
Insurance 2
Burial Allowances 117
Physical Evaluation Boards 131
Total Awards 2,733
Total Monthly Increases $1,300,614.45
Total Retroactive Payments $20,946,768.90
Full Amount $22,247,383.35
VA Files Reviewed 2,272
Power of Attorneys 498
Interviews 2,305
Rating Board Appearances 1,097
Military Affairs 901
Social Security Activities 3
New Claims 1,544
Membership 95
St. Petersburg, Florida
New Service Connections 1,360
Compensation Increased 3,768
Compensation Maintained 5,913
Pension 1,118
Pension Maintained 447
Social Security 0
Education Benefits 1,121
Miscellaneous 202
Death Compensation 450
Death Pension 187
Insurance 6
Burial Allowances 1,132
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 15,704
Total Monthly Increases $7,960,365.00
Total Retroactive Payments $120,072,087.36
Full Amount $128,032,452.36
VA Files Reviewed 18,996
Power of Attorneys 3,444
Interviews 6,971
Rating Board Appearances 12,001
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 0
New Claims 8,868
Membership 289
Atlanta, Georgia
New Service Connections 238
Compensation Increased 393
Compensation Maintained 1,077
Pension 60
Pension Maintained 54
Social Security 1
Education Benefits 578
Miscellaneous 16
Death Compensation 76
Death Pension 9
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 51
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 2,553
Total Monthly Increases $1,374,594.00
Total Retroactive Payments $18,035,444.00
Full Amount $19,410,038.00
VA Files Reviewed 4,012
Power of Attorneys 859
Interviews 1,518
Rating Board Appearances 2,614
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 11
New Claims 1,924
Membership 64
Honolulu, Hawaii
New Service Connections 151
Compensation Increased 203
Compensation Maintained 490
Pension 9
Pension Maintained 7
Social Security 0
Education Benefits 0
Miscellaneous 28
Death Compensation 12
Death Pension 2
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 70
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 972
Total Monthly Increases $535,345.00
Total Retroactive Payments $8,977,275.00
Full Amount $9,512,620.00
VA Files Reviewed 1,104
Power of Attorneys 288
Interviews 1,261
Rating Board Appearances 1,047
Military Affairs 205
Social Security Activities 0
New Claims 903
Membership 62
Boise, Idaho
New Service Connections 231
Compensation Increased 205
Compensation Maintained 563
Pension 31
Pension Maintained 568
Social Security 1
Education Benefits 177
Miscellaneous 18
Death Compensation 33
Death Pension 20
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 60
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 1,907
Total Monthly Increases $964,959.00
Total Retroactive Payments $11,626,597.00
Full Amount $12,591,556.00
VA Files Reviewed 1,437
Power of Attorneys 736
Interviews 1,154
Rating Board Appearances 1,373
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 9
New Claims 715
Membership 33
Chicago, Illinois
New Service Connections 396
Compensation Increased 1,122
Compensation Maintained 1,071
Pension 559
Pension Maintained 397
Social Security 1
Education Benefits 27
Miscellaneous 110
Death Compensation 51
Death Pension 37
Insurance 41
Burial Allowances 343
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 4,155
Total Monthly Increases $3,121,571.00
Total Retroactive Payments $27,400,567.80
Full Amount $30,522,138.80
VA Files Reviewed 3,979
Power of Attorneys 841
Interviews 2,065
Rating Board Appearances 3,203
Military Affairs 3
Social Security Activities 0
New Claims 2,184
Membership 95
Indianapolis, Indiana
New Service Connections 235
Compensation Increased 934
Compensation Maintained 757
Pension 339
Pension Maintained 427
Social Security 0
Education Benefits 389
Miscellaneous 143
Death Compensation 61
Death Pension 68
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 97
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 3,450
Total Monthly Increases $1,433,960.12
Total Retroactive Payments $19,804,571.32
Full Amount $21,238,531.44
VA Files Reviewed 4,874
Power of Attorneys 589
Interviews 1,202
Rating Board Appearances 3,974
Military Affairs 33
Social Security Activities 19
New Claims 2,310
Membership 45
Des Moines, Iowa
New Service Connections 207
Compensation Increased 559
Compensation Maintained 1,155
Pension 335
Pension Maintained 741
Social Security 0
Education Benefits 284
Miscellaneous 195
Death Compensation 40
Death Pension 273
Insurance 45
Burial Allowances 152
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 3,986
Total Monthly Increases $1,861,845.00
Total Retroative Payments $23,525,768.95
Full Amount $25,387,613.95
VA Files Reviewed 4,501
Power of Attorneys 522
Interviews 1,613
Rating Board Appearances 3,507
Military Affairs 2
Social Security Activities 1
New Claims 1,491
Membership 523
Wichita, Kansas
New Service Connections 259
Compensation Increased 412
Compensation Maintained 702
Pension 95
Pension Maintained 742
Social Security 1
Education Benefits 239
Miscellaneous 13
Death Compensation 48
Death Pension 159
Insurance 2
Burial Allowances 130
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 2,802
Total Monthly Increases $1,351,881.00
Total Retroactive Payments $17,872,068.00
Full Amount $19,223,949.00
VA Files Reviewed 1,954
Power of Attorneys 772
Interviews 1,416
Rating Board Appearances 1,832
Military Affairs 6
Social Security Activities 1
New Claims 2,736
Membership 87
Louisville, Kentucky
New Service Connections 399
Compensation Increased 1,088
Compensation Maintained 1,192
Pension 5,106
Pension Maintained 140
Social Security 1
Education Benefits 69
Miscellaneous 118
Death Compensation 101
Death Pension 1,720
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 556
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 10,490
Total Monthly Increases $4,380,662.00
Total Retroactive Payments $75,168,803.00
Full Amount $79,549,465.00
VA Files Reviewed 6,900
Power Of Attorneys 2,191
Interviews 700
Rating Board Appearances 7,034
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 3
New Claims 4,826
Membership 132
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Service Connections 347
Compensation Increased 655
Compensation Maintained 1,006
Pension 421
Pension Maintained 213
Social Security 1
Education Benefits 399
Miscellaneous 90
Death Compensation 24
Death Pension 18
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 8
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 3,182
Total Monthly Increases $1,526,174.00
Total Retroactive Payments $23,998,644.00
Full Amount $25,524,818.00
VA Files Reviewed 4,338
Power Of Attorneys 768
Interviews 3,553
Rating Board Appearances 2,871
Military Affairs 29
Social Security Activities 36
New Claims 4,784
Membership 81
Togus, Maine
New Service Connections 165
Compensation Increased 723
Compensation Maintained 513
Pension 87
Pension Maintained 48
Social Security 0
Education Benefits 310
Miscellaneous 55
Death Compensation 18
Death Pension 1
Insurance 1
Burial Allowances 96
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 2,017
Total Monthly Increases $1,364,740.08
Total Retroactive Payments $17,779,533.36
Full Amount 19,144,273.44
VA Files Reviewed 2,089
Power of Attorneys 316
Interviews 2,612
Rating Board Appearances 1,881
Military Affairs 1
Social Security Activities 0
New Claims 229
Membership 240
Balitmore, Maryland
New Service Connections 201
Cmopensation Increased 480
Compensation Maintained 495
Pension 96
Pension Maintained 88
Social Security 0
Education Benefits 234
Miscellaneous 20
Death Compensation 18
Death Pension 12
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 29
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 1,674
Total Monthly Increases 824,841.00
Total Retroactive Payments $11,526,031.00
Full Amount 12,350,872.00
VA Files Reviewed 2,048
Power of Attorneys 324
Interviews 1,061
Rating Board Appearances 1,145
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 0
New Claims 560
Membership 67
Boston, Massachusetts
New Service Connections 450
Compensation Increased 1,498
Compensation Maintained 1,505
Pension 259
Pension Maintained 31
Social Security 3
Education Benefits 565
Miscellaneous 30
Death Compensation 77
Death Pension 62
Insurance 1
Burial Allowances 392
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 4,873
Total Monthly Increases $2,573,805.00
Total Retroactive Payments $39,523,737.00
Full Amount $42,097,542.00
VA Files Reviewed 9,231
Power of Attorneys 1,586
Interviews 5,393
Rating Board Appearances 6,352
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 7
New Claims 4,670
Membership 293
Detroit, Michigan
New Service Connections 243
Compensation Increased 1,018
Compensation Maintained 1,126
Pension 449
Pension Maintained 467
Social Security 4
Education Benefits 329
Miscellaneous 117
Death Compensation 71
Death Pension 302
Insurance 2
Burial Allowances 407
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 4,535
Total Monthly Increases $1,864,364.00
Total Retroactive Payments $24,913,578.00
Full Amount $26,777,942.00
VA Files Reviewed 10,445
Power of Attorneys 1,456
Interviews 1,777
Rating Board Appearances 4,750
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 28
New Claims 4,849
Membership 72
St. Paul, Minnesota
New Service Connections 646
Compensation Increased 1,228
Compensation Maintained 1,276
Pension 335
Pension Maintained 117
Social Security 4
Education Benefits 646
Miscellaneous 234
Death Compensation 80
Death Pension 150
Insurance 13
Burial Allowances 288
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 5,017
Total Monthly Increases $2,578,965.00
Total Retroactive Payments $36,222,972.00
Full Amount $38,801,937.00
VA Files Reviewed 9,159
Power of Attorneys 1,223
Interviews 1,656
Rating Board Appearances 5,853
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 11
New Claims 8,959
Membership 81
Jackson, Mississippi
New Service Connections 155
Compensation Increased 479
Compensation Maintained 639
Pension 387
Pension Maintained 82
Social Security 0
Education Benefits 207
Miscellaneous 30
Death Compensation 26
Death Pension 38
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 94
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 2,137
Total Monthly Increases $976,453.00
Total Retroactive Payments $15,013,538.00
Full Amount $15,989,991.00
VA Files Reviewed 1,828
Power of Attorneys 358
Interviews 622
Rating Board Appearances 1,398
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 0
New Claims 1,339
Membership 35
St. Louis, Missouri
New Service Connections 738
Compensation Increased 1,338
Compensation Maintained 2,684
Pension 697
Pension Maintained 518
Social Security 15
Education Benefits 1,528
Miscellaneous 289
Death Compensation 75
Death Pension 78
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 201
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 8,161
Total Monthly Increases $4,836,437.49
Total Retroactive Payments $52,645,428.28
Full Amount $57,481,865.77
VA Files Reviewed 8,815
Power of Attorneys 1,984
Interviews 2,845
Rating Board Appearances 7,155
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 35
New Claims 7,117
Membership 144
Fort Harrison, Montana
New Service Connections 106
Compensation Increased 369
Compensation Maintained 156
Pension 70
Pension Maintained 19
Social Security 2
Education Benefits 73
Miscellaneous 19
Death Compensation 11
Death Pension 6
Insurance 8
Burial Allowances 84
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 923
Total Monthly Increases $378,398.00
Total Retroactive Payments $5,622,679.00
Full Amount $6,001,077.00
VA Files Reviewed 498
Power of Attorneys 257
Interviews 1,894
Rating Board Appearances 489
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 17
New Claims 246
Membership 52
Lincoln, Nebraska
New Service Connections 171
Compensation Increased 376
Compensation Maintained 450
Pension 157
Pension Maintained 17
Social Security 5
Education Benefits 37
Miscellaneous 22
Death Compensation 25
Death Pension 24
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 113
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 1,397
Total Monthly Increases $791,024.00
Total Retroactive Payments $11,116,719.00
Full Amount $11,907,743.00
VA Files Reviewed 1,320
Power of Attorneys 520
Interviews 631
Rating Board Appearances 950
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 32
New Claims 771
Membership 8
Manchester, New Hampshire
New Service Connections 263
Compensation Increased 624
Compensation Maintained 859
Pension 79
Pension Maintained 169
Social Security 7
Education Benefits 210
Miscellaneous 49
Death Compensation 18
Death Pension 2
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 9
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 2,289
Total Monthly Increases $1,739,053.00
Total Retroactive Payments $20,532,666.00
Full Amount $22,271,719.00
VA Files Reviewed 4,665
Power of Attorneys 511
Interviews 2,361
Rating Board Appearances 3,203
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 96
New Claims 983
Membership 83
Newark, New Jersey
New Service Connections 239
Compensation Increased 966
Compensation Maintained 1,059
Pension 114
Pension Maintained 155
Social Security 0
Education Benefits 403
Miscellaneous 39
Death Compensation 89
Death Pension 25
Insurance 1
Burial Allowances 277
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 3,367
Total Monthly Increases $2,008,462.92
Total Retroactive Payments $17,778,846.41
Full Amount $19,787,309.33
VA Files Reviewed 3,787
Power of Attorneys 1,219
Interviews 2,424
Rating Board Appearances 2,494
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 1
New Claims 3,598
Membership 94
Albuquerque, New Mexico
New Service Connections 289
Compensation Increased 601
Compensation Maintained 791
Pension 207
Pension Maintained 295
Social Security 0
Eduation Benefits 293
Miscellaneous 16
Death Compensation 35
Death Pension 48
Insurance 1
Burial Allowances 178
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 2,754
Total Monthly Increases $1,402,858.23
Total Retroactive Payments $16,859,793.85
Full Amount $18,262,652.08
VA Files Reviewed 2,661
Power of Attorneys 667
Interviews 2,327
Rating Board Appearances 1,999
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 0
New Claims 1,341
Membership 89
New York, New York
New Service Connections 482
Compensation Increased 1,530
Compensation Maintained 1,500
Pension 185
Pension Maintained 301
Social Security 3
Education Benefits 53
Miscellaneous 172
Death Compensation 98
Death Pension 59
Insurance 45
Burial Allowances 443
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 4,871
Total Monthly Increases $2,111,448.49
Total Retroactive payments $39,847,026.56
Full Amount $41,958,475.05
VA Files Reviewed 7,580
Power of Attorneys 1,317
Interviews 3,521
Rating Board Appearances 4,485
Military Affairs 4
Social Security Activities 17
New Claims 1,976
Membership 284
Albany, New York
New Service Connections 0
Compensation Increased 0
Compensation Maintained 0
Pension 0
Pension Maintained 0
Social Security 1
Education Benefits 0
Miscellaneous 0
Death Compensation 0
Death Compensation 0
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 0
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 1
Total Monthly Increases $500.00
Total Retroactive Payments $16,500.00
Full Amount $17,000.00
VA Files Reviewed 0
Power of Attorneys 207
Interviews 686
Rating Board Appearances 2
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 6
New Claims 554
Membership 52
Buffalo, New York
New Service Connections 206
Compensation Increased 565
Compensation Maintained 1,452
Pension 73
Pension Maintained 292
Social Security 1
Education Benefits 1,782
Miscellaneous 40
Death Compensation 51
Death Pension 29
Insurance 6
Burial Allowances 107
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 4,604
Total Monthly Increases $2,354,013.00
Total Retroactive Payments $28,727,569.00
Full Amount $31,081,582.00
VA Files Reviewed 7,631
Power of Attorneys 762
Interviews 1,616
Rating Board Appearances 5,812
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 0
New Claims 2,295
Membership 102
Syracuse, New York
New Service Connections 0
Compensation Increase 0
Compensation Maintained 0
Pension 0
Pension Maintained 0
Social Security 16
Education Benefits 0
Miscellaneous 0
Death Compensation 0
Death Pension 0
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 0
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 16
Total Monthly Increase $32,318.00
Total Retroactive Payments $319,361.00
Full Amount $351,679.00
VA Files Reviewed 475
Power of Attorneys 358
Interviews 1,815
Rating Board Appearances 0
Military Affairs 10
Social Security Activities 106
New Claims 3,100
Membership 49
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
New Service Connections 516
Compensation Increased 1,768
Compensation Maintained 1,669
Pension 249
Pension Maintained 425
Social Security 0
Education Benefits 388
Miscellaneous 48
Death Compensation 51
Death Pension 26
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 296
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 5,436
Total Monthly Increases $2,740,624.00
Total Retroactive Payments $38,675,127.00
Full Amount $41,415,751.00
VA Files Reviewed 6,815
Power of Attorneys 3,073
Interviews 1,755
Rating Board Appearances 5,233
Military Affairs 29
Social Security Activities 8
New Claims 4,308
Membership 96
Fargo, North Dakota
New Service Connections 164
Compensation Increased 355
Compensation Maintained 417
Pension 185
Pension Maintained 186
Social Security 0
Education Benefits 361
Miscellaneous 24
Death Compensation 12
Death Pension 125
Insurance 1
Burial Allowances 15
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 1,845
Total Monthly Increases $826,555.00
Total Retroactive Payments $9,776,211.00
Full Amount $10,602,766.00
Va Files Reviewed 2,474
Power of Attorneys 518
Interviews 1,403
Rating Board Appearances 1,123
Miltary Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 0
New Claims 1,213
Membership 96
Cleveland, Ohio
New Service Connections 343
Compensation Increased 1,431
Compensation Maintained 2,185
Pension 548
Pension Maintained 838
Social Security 0
Education Benefits 539
Miscellaneous 32
Death Compensation 153
Death Pension 520
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 845
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 7,434
Total Monthly Increases $3,641,191.00
Total Retroactive Payments $51,718,584.00
Full Amount $55,359,775.00
VA Files Reviewed 13,898
Power of Attorneys 2,106
Interviews 2,406
Rating Board Appearances 11,346
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 3
New Claims 4,704
Membership 207
Cincinnati, Ohio
New Service Connections 0
Compensation Increased 0
Compensation Maintained 0
Pension 0
Pension Maintained 0
Social Security 0
Education Benefits 0
Miscellaneous 0
Death Compensation 0
Death Pension 0
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 0
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 0
Total Monthly Increases $0.00
Total Retroactive Payments $0.00
Full Amount $0.00
VA Files Reviewed 182
Power of Attorneys 950
Interviews 938
Rating Board Appearances 150
Military Affairs 6
Social Security Activities 9
New Claims 1,797
Membership 19
Muskogee, Oklahoma
New Service Connections 363
Compensation Increased 1,071
Compensation Maintained 812
Pension 406
Pension Maintained 53
Social Security 0
Education Benefits 784
Miscellaneous 117
Death Compensation 53
Death Pension 120
Insurance 34
Burial Allowances 159
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 3,972
Total Monthly Increases $1,917,558.00
Total Retroactive Payments $28,724,403.96
Full Amount $30,641,961.96
VA Files Reviewed 3,875
Power of Attorneys 1,362
Interviews 1,808
Rating Board Appearances 3,304
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 7
New Claims 4,264
Membership 121
Portland, Oregon
New Service Connections 364
Compensation Increased 1,067
Compensation Maintained 1,250
Pension 248
Pension Maintained 366
Social Security 1
Education Benefits 464
Miscellaneous 36
Death Compensation 46
Death Pension 49
Insurance 3
Burial Allowances 224
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 4,118
Total Monthly Increases $2,322,626.00
Total Retroactive Payments $32,212,838.00
Full Amount $34,535,464.00
VA Files Reviewed 4,312
Power of Attorneys 659
Interviews 1,164
Rating Board Appearances 3,940
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 0
New Claims 2,682
Membership 140
Philiadelphia, Pennsylvania
New Service Connections 461
Compensation Increased 1,629
Compensation Maintained 1,597
Pension 369
Pension Maintained 400
Social Security 1
Education Benefits 392
Miscellaneous 112
Death Compensation 86
Death Pension 144
Insurance 126
Burial Allowances 446
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 5,763
Total Monthly Increases $2,458,460.00
Total Retroactive Payments $39,925,939.00
Full Amount $42,384,399.00
VA Files Reviewed 6,114
Power of Attorneys 2,167
Interviews 2,616
Rating Board Appearances 4,642
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 5
New Claims 2,685
Membership 174
Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania
New Service Connections 0
Compensation Increased 0
Compensation Maintained 0
Pension 0
Pension Maintained 0
Social Security 0
Education Benefits 0
Miscellaneous 0
Death Compensation 0
Death Pension 0
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 0
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 0
Total Monthly Increases $0.00
Total Retroactive Payments $0.00
Full Amount $0.00
VA Files Reviewed 99
Power of Attorneys 60
Interviews 478
Rating Board Appearances 69
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 0
New Claims 178
Membership 19
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
New Service Connections 504
Compensation Increased 1,252
Compensation Maintained 2,716
Pension 768
Pension Maintained 2,820
Social Security 19
Education Benefits 294
Miscellaneous 216
Death Compensation 98
Death Pension 870
Insurance 10
Burial Allowances 237
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 9,804
Total Monthly Increases $4,507,762.00
Total Retroactive Payments $61,614,777.00
Full Amount $66,122,539.00
VA Files Reviewed 6,569
Power of Attorneys 1,354
Interviews 2,279
Rating Board Appearances 3,803
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 50
New Claims 3,560
Membership 506
Providence, Rhode Island
New Service Connections 270
Compensation Increased 613
Compensation Maintained 677
Pension 6
Pension Maintained 331
Social Security 1
Education Benefits 189
Miscellaneous 3
Death Compensation 33
Death Pension 59
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 139
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 2,383
Total Monthly Increases $1,191,836.00
Total Retroactive Payments $19,517,610.00
Full Amount $20,709,446.00
VA Files Reviewed 3,425
Power of Attorneys 588
Interviews 1,894
Rating Board Appearances 2,650
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 27
New Claims 940
Membership 167
Columbia, South Carolina
New Service Connections 341
Compensation Increased 712
Compensation Maintained 1,194
Pension 459
Pension Maintained 288
Social Security 0
Education Benefits 333
Miscellaneous 98
Death Compensation 43
Death Pension 139
Insurance 51
Burial Allowances 220
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 3,878
Total Monthly Increases $1,853,254.00
Total Retroactive Payments $27,135,107.00
Full Amount $28,988,361.00
VA Files Reviewed 4,262
Power of Attorneys 1,053
Interviews 1,885
Rating Board Appearances 2,540
Military Affairs 16
Social Security Activities 8
New Claims 1,790
Membership 149
Sioux Falls, South Dakota
New Service Connections 165
Compensation Increased 312
Compensation Maintained 528
Pension 110
Pension Maintained 88
Social Security 0
Education Benefits 388
Miscellaneous 31
Death Compensation 21
Death Pension 35
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 59
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 1,737
Total Monthly Increases $805,065.00
Total Retroactive Payments $9,248,432.56
Full Amount $10,053,497.56
VA Files Reviewed 1,666
Power of Attorneys 328
Interviews 570
Rating Board Appearances 1,220
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 0
New Claims 1,135
Membership 44
Nashville, Tennessee
New Service Connections 505
Compensation Increased 945
Compensation Maintained 1,362
Pension 457
Pension Maintained 141
Social Security 2
Education Benefits 420
Miscellaneous 55
Death Compensation 41
Death Pension 86
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 213
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 4,227
Total Monthly Increases $1,968,960.00
Total Retroactive Payments $31,881,928.47
Full Amount $33,850,888.47
VA Files Reviewed 3,458
Power of Attorneys 1,069
Interviews 1,071
Rating Board Appearances 3,212
Military Affairs 1
Social Security Activities 2
New Claims 2,242
Membership 123
Waco, Texas
New Service Connections 1,006
Compensation Increased 3,074
Compensation Maintained 3,301
Pension 639
Pension Maintained 471
Social Security 0
Education Benefits 828
Miscellaneous 265
Death Compensation 272
Death Pension 133
Insurance 2
Burial Allowances 836
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 10,827
Total Monthly Increases $4,981,526.00
Total Retroactive Payments $78,811,563.00
Full Amount $83,793,089.00
VA Files Reviewed 12,148
Power of Attorneys 4,077
Interviews 2,943
Rating Board Appearances 9,680
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 1
New Claims 5,041
Membership 146
Houston, Texas
New Service Connections 673
Compensation Increased 1,105
Compensation Maintained 1,805
Pension 561
Pension Maintained 1,092
Social Security 1
Education Benefits 523
Miscellaneous 94
Death Compensation 73
Death Pension 521
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 293
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 6,741
Total Monthly Increases $3,068,597.00
Total Retroactive Payments $41,534,884.00
Full Amount $44,603,481.00
VA Files Reviewed 8,231
Power of Attorneys 597
Interviews 2,712
Rating Board Appearances 6,841
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 5
New Claims 1,239
Membership 129
San Antonio, Texas
New Service Connections 0
Compensation Increased 0
Compensation Maintained 0
Pension 0
Pension Maintained 0
Social Security 1
Education Benefits 0
Miscellaneous 0
Death Compensation 0
Death Pension 0
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 0
Physical Evaluation Boards 232
Total Awards 233
Total Monthly Increases $355,668.00
Total Retroactive Payments $4,687,707.00
Full Amount $5,043,375.00
VA Files Reviewed 391
Power of Attorneys 1,193
Interviews 3,623
Rating Board Appearances 185
Military Affairs 1,213
Social Security Activities 3
New Claims 2,077
Membership 144
Salt Lake City, Utah
New Service Connections 170
Compensation Increased 523
Compensation Maintained 523
Pension 114
Pension Maintained 25
Social Security 1
Education Benefits 197
Miscellaneous 23
Death Compensation 20
Death Pension 19
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 126
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 1,741
Total Monthly Increases $964,516.00
Total Retroactive Payments $11,801,566.00
Full Amount $12,766,082.00
VA Files Reviewed 3,258
Power of Attorneys 405
Interviews 956
Rating Board Appearances 2,049
Military Affairs 202
Social Security Activities 1
New Claims 682
Membership 96
White River Junction, Vermont
New Service Connections 75
Compensation Increased 203
Compensation Maintained 274
Pension 80
Pension Maintained 58
Social Security 1
Education Benefits 51
Miscellaneous 22
Death Compensation 15
Death Pension 1
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 20
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 800
Total Monthly Increases $393,290.00
Total Retroactive Payments $5,638,947.00
Full Amount $6,032,237.00
VA Files Reviewed 2,777
Power of Attorneys 343
Interviews 2,306
Rating Board Appearances 1,512
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 22
New Claims 948
Membership 83
Roanoke, Virginia
New Service Connections 680
Compensation Increased 1,133
Compensation Maintained 2,132
Pension 532
Pension Maintained 221
Social Security 18
Education Benefits 1,175
Miscellaneous 78
Death Compensation 65
Death Pension 58
Insurance 1
Burial Allowance 243
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 6,336
Total Monthly Increases $3,841,251.00
Total Retroactive Payments $49,255,639.00
Full Amount $53,096,890.00
VA Files Reviewed 10,912
Power of Attorneys 1,406
Interviews 6,592
Rating Board Appearances 4,310
Military Affairs 18
Social Security Activities 31
New Claims 3,826
Membership 182
Seattle, Washington
New Service Connections 1,046
Compensation Increased 1,683
Compensation Maintained 1,953
Pension 274
Pension Maintained 103
Social Security 6
Education Benefits 904
Miscellaneous 30
Death Compensation 93
Death Pension 15
Insurance 1
Burial Allowance 203
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 6,311
Total Monthly Increases $3,763,522.88
Total Retroactive Payments $49,813,189.88
Full Amount $53,576,712.76
VA Files Reviewed 4,518
Power of Attorneys 1,670
Interviews 2,089
Rating Board Appearances 3,647
Military Affairs 1
Social Security Activities 37
New Claims 3,086
Membership 158
Huntington, West Virginia
New Service Connections 114
Compensation Increased 363
Compensation Maintained 548
Pension 241
Pension Maintained 184
Social Security 0
Education Benefits 168
Miscellaneous 57
Death Compensation 23
Death Pension 74
Insurance 0
Burial Allowance 180
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 1,952
Total Monthly Increases $996,303.00
Total Retroactive Payments $13,839,279.00
Full Amount $14,835,582.00
VA Files Reviewed 2,445
Power of Attorneys 296
Interviews 1,275
Rating Board Appearances 1,869
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 0
New Claims 1,085
Membership 28
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
New Service Connections 461
Compensation Increased 1,376
Compensation Maintained 1,837
Pension 350
Pension Maintained 360
Social Security 1
Education Benefits 606
Miscellaneous 71
Death Compensation 47
Death Pension 101
Insurance 0
Burial Allowance 285
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 5,495
Total Monthly Increases $2,956,078.00
Total Retroactive Payments $39,318,032.00
Full Amount $42,274,110.00
VA Files Reviewed 7,492
Power of Attorneys 1,173
Interviews 2,160
Rating Board Appearances 6,838
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 13
New Claims 3,056
Membership 231
Cheyenne, Wyoming
New Service Connections 77
Compensation Increased 118
Compensation Maintained 144
Pension 32
Pension Maintained 6
Social Security 00
Education Benefits 10
Miscellaneous 17
Death Compensation 6
Death Pension 1
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 35
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 446
Total Monthly Increases $241,763.00
Total Retroactive Payments $3,995,050.00
Full Amount $4,236,813.00
VA Files Reviewed 544
Power of Attorneys 52
Interviews 294
Rating Board Appearances 423
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 0
New Claims 249
Membership 5
Wilmington, Delaware
New Service Connections 50
Compensation Increased 130
Compensation Maintained 144
Pension 17
Pension Maintained 39
Social Security 0
Education Benefits 63
Miscellaneous 9
Death Compensation 9
Death Pension 4
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 47
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 512
Total Monthly Increases $239,620.00
Total Retroactive Payments $3,225,212.50
Full Amount $3,464,832.50
VA Files Reviewed 1,300
Power of Attorneys 107
Interviews 534
Rating Board Appearances 728
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 0
New Claims 424
Membership 8
Dallas, Texas
New Service Connections 0
Compensation Increased 0
Compensation Maintained 0
Pension 0
Pension Maintained 0
Social Security 0
Education Benefits 0
Miscellaneous 0
Death Compensation 0
Death Pension 0
Insurance 2
Burial Allowances 0
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 2
Total Monthly Increases $10,000.00
Total Retroactive Payments $10,000.00
Full Amount $20,000.00
VA Files Reviewed 37
Power of Attorneys 1,098
Interviews 4,668
Rating Board Appearances 3
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 5
New Claims 1,410
Membership 32
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
New Service Connections 0
Compensation Increased 0
Compensation Maintained 0
Pension 0
Pension Maintained 0
Social Security 0
Education Benefits 0
Miscellaneous 0
Death Compensation 0
Death Pension 0
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 0
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 0
Total Monthly Increases $0.00
Total Retroactive Payments $0.00
Full Amount $0.00
VA Files Reviewed 0
Power of Attorneys 199
Interviews 3,406
Rating Board Appearances 0
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 0
New Claims 386
Membership 35
San Diego, California
New Service Connections 1,522
Compensation Increased 797
Compensation Maintained 967
Pension 76
Pension Maintained 85
Social Security 0
Education Benefits 2,067
Miscellaneous 123
Death Compensation 46
Death Pension 7
Insurance 98
Burial Allowances 225
Physical Evaluation Boards 36
Total Awards 6,049
Total Monthly Increases $3,183,505.00
Total Retroactive Payments 32,548,427.00
Full Amount $35,731,932.00
VA Files Reviewed 7,437
Power of Attorneys 1,796
Interviews 5,284
Rating Board Appearances 4,359
Military Affairs 3,256
Social Security Activities 0
New Claims 3,003
Membership 143
Reno, Nevada
New Service Connections 237
Compensation Increased 537
Compensation Maintained 680
Pension 102
Pension Maintained 40
Social Security 1
Education Benefits 397
Miscellaneous 29
Death Compensation 33
Death Pension 4
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 111
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 2,171
Total Monthly Increases $899,808.00
Total Retroactive Payments $12,137,513.00
Full Amount $13,037,321.00
VA Files Reviewed 1,629
Power of Attorneys 586
Interviews 1,277
Rating Board Appearances 1,399
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 0
New Claims 869
Membership 28
San Juan, Puerto Rico
New Service Connections 49
Compensation Increased 219
Compensation Maintained 559
Pension 75
Pension Maintained 103
Social Security 0
Education Benefits 579
Miscellaneous 14
Death Compensation 31
Death Pension 9
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 5
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 1,643
Total Monthly Increases $1,130,023.00
Total Retroactive Payments $13,811,773.00
Full Amount $14,941,796.00
Va Files Reviewed 2,110
Power of Attorneys 199
Interviews 2,494
Rating Board Appearances 1,225
Military Affairs 0
Social Security Activities 0
New Claims 128
Membership 72
Norfolk, Virginia
New Service Connections 0
Compensation Increased 0
Compensation Maintained 0
Pension 0
Pension Maintained 0
Social Security 0
Education Benefits 0
Miscellaneous 0
Death Compensation 0
Death Pension 0
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 0
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 0
Total Monthly Increases $0.00
Total Retroactive Payments $0.00
Full Amount $0.00
VA Files Reviewed 72
Power of Attorneys 741
Interviews 72
Rating Board Appearances 0
Military Affairs 4,491
Social Security Activities 0
New Claims 918
Membership 34
NAS Miramar, San Diego
New Service Connections 0
Compensation Increased 0
Compensation Maintained 0
Pension 0
Pension Maintained 0
Social Security 0
Education Benefits 0
Miscellaneous 0
Death Compensation 0
Death Pension 0
Insurance 0
Burial Allowances 0
Physical Evaluation Boards 0
Total Awards 0
Total Monthly Increases $0.00
Total Retroactive Payments $0.00
Full Amount $0.00
Va Files Reviewed 210
Power of Attorneys 102
Interviews 210
Rating Board Appearances 0
Military Affairs 50,486
Social Security Activities 0
New Claims 2
Membership 1
Total National Service Office Report
New Service Connections 23,595
Compensation Increased 52,436
Compensation Maintained 69,701
Pension 21,711
Pension Maintained 16,134
Social Security 141
Education Benefits 26,352
Miscellaneous 4,676
Death Compensation 3,606
Death Pension 7,140
Insurance 566
Burial Allowances 13,030
Physical Evaluation Boards 399
Total Awards 239,487
Total Monthly Increases $124,740,005.66
Total Retroactive Payments $1,679,300,780.51
Full Amount $1,804,040,786.17
Va Files Reviewed 299,300
Power of Attorneys 70,214
Interviews 141,173
Rating Board Appearances 211,930
Military Affairs 64,848
Social Security Activities 806
New Claims 158,937
Membership 7,538
[The following written annual report was submitted by Mr.
Bruce G. Nitsche, National Director of Voluntary Services.]
National Commander Thomas A. McMasters, III, National Officers,
Distinguished Guests and Delegates to the 75th national Convention of
the Disabled American Veterans:
``It is better to give than to receive.'' Those words have struck a
responsive chord in the hearts of good, kind, and loving people ever
since biblical times.
The man who put real meaning to that statement was Francis of
Assisi, a man who was ready to put his money where his mouth was.
Turning his back on the great wealth he stood to inherit from his
father, he gave everything he owned to the poor and devoted the rest of
his life to the needs of others.
When his hour of death came, he suffered horribly, but he was
enveloped by the love of many hundreds of people who had gathered to
pay him their final tribute . . . people who believed that ``It is
better to give than to receive''. . . people who would carry that
phrase through the centuries that followed.
St. Francis' admonition definitely rings in the hearts of the men
and women who offer their love to the world through the volunteer
programs of the Disabled American Veterans and the DAV Auxiliary. Their
own volunteer action has proven how great the personal rewards can be
when one gives of one's self.
Even as the DAV celebrates its 76 years of service to America's
disabled veterans and their families, we mark yet another anniversary
that adds excitement to our festivities. That is the 50th anniversary
of the DAV and Auxiliary involvement in the VA Voluntary Service
Program.
For 50 years now, the DAV and Auxiliary VAVS programs have become a
vital force of compassion in the lives of the veterans who populate the
wards of the VA.
Today, as we celebrate the anniversaries of the DAV and our VAVS
program, we really celebrate the wonderful people who have made our
organization and its programs the envy of the veterans' community.
Today, I'd like to take a moment to salute those members and everything
they've accomplished during the year just past. Although this report
focuses on the past year's successes, let's not stop the discussion
there! While we can and should be proud of our past achievements, we
must also look ahead. We must determine where the DAV and Auxiliary
will find new volunteers to meet the growing needs of our veterans,
particularly those who are aging. If you're not already in the ranks of
our volunteers, we need you. We need your time, your sensitivities,
your ideas, and your help in making certain that America's veterans get
the care they deserve.
As you consider your own possible future role in our volunteer
effort, please remember that there are more than enough opportunities
to go around--not only at VA medical centers but in the communities
where veterans live. Think of the unused skills and talents in our
membership ranks! Think of the services we could offer veterans if more
of us became involved!
The following program descriptions present statistics totaling the
money spent, the hours donated, and the number of people who
participate in our volunteer effort. But these figures can never fully
represent the leadership and unselfish assistance provided by State
VAVS Chairmen, Hospital Representatives, Deputies, and individual
volunteers. No one can put a price on programs like transportation to
medical treatment, direct patient care, entertainment, and recreational
and sporting activities. No one can place a monetary value on doing for
older veterans what they can no longer do for themselves. Nor could we
place a dollar sign in front of the friendship one veteran extends to
another . . . or the love an Auxiliary member holds out to a family
much like her own. The statistics in this report merely measure what
DAV members, DAV families, and DAV friends have done in accomplishing
our organization's purpose. They cannot measure the gift our volunteers
offer or the reward they receive in their own hearts.
dav department of veterans affairs voluntary services program
The DAV VAVS program is the largest of the DAV's volunteer
initiatives. Through it, DAV volunteers provide a broad array of
services to veterans in our nation's VA medical facilities. Under this
program, 8,414 DAV VAVS volunteers donated 1,856,585 hours in the 12
months ending March 31, 1996.
With a group this large and the huge number of assignments they
perform, you can imagine the extensive management effort that's carried
out on a local level by 20 State Chairmen, 185 VAVS Representatives, 27
Associate Representatives, 315 Deputy Representatives, and six
Associate Deputy Representatives.
The DAV Volunteer effort is enhanced by a very active corps of
2,943 Auxiliary volunteers who donated 380,273 hours last year.
Together, DAV and Auxiliary volunteers provided 2,236,858 hours of VAVS
service over the past year--more than any other service organization.
This is equivalent to the VA having an additional 1,100 full-time
employees with an estimated value of $27,848,882 in hourly wages alone.
VAVS monetary donations during 1995 totaled $2,923,160.06. Other
hospital and service-related donations came to $9,516,809.52. This
figure includes Department and Chapter expenditures on welfare and
relief, as well as Hospital Service Coordinator and Department Service
Officer programs. When you add the total Chapter and Department
spending on volunteer programs to the estimated monetary value of the
time donated by our volunteers, you get a total contribution in the
range of $40 million--quite impressive by any standard!
dav hospital service coordinator transportation network program
Because so many sick and disabled veterans lack transportation to
and from VA medical facilities for needed treatment, the DAV operates a
nationwide Transportation Network. This program continues to show
tremendous growth as an indispensable resource for veterans. Across the
nation, 168 DAV Hospital Service Coordinators (HSCs) operate 190 active
programs. They've recruited 5,006 volunteer drivers who logged
17,907,663 miles last year, taking 480,753 veterans to and from VA
medical facilities. Many of these veterans rode in vans the DAV donated
to VA medical facilities for use in the Transportation Network. DAV
Departments and Chapters, together with the National Organization, have
now donated 556 vans to VA medical centers nationwide at a cost of
$9,656,581.89.
But DAV HSCs do more that coordinate transportation; they also help
veterans file claims for VA benefits. HSCs have completed 72,433 VA
claim forms, referring 24,818 veterans to DAV National Service Officers
for professional benefits assistance. They've also conducted over
385,000 telephone and personal interviews. DAV HSCs and VAVS volunteers
form a hospital-based service program that thousands of veterans have
come to know and trust for help whenever it's needed.
dav older veterans assistance program
As with the American population as a whole, the fastest growing
segment of the veteran population is the elderly. Today more than 8
million veterans are over the age of 65. By 1999 that number is
expected to peak at 9 million, representing 37 percent of the total
population. For many of these veterans, these are days of loneliness,
failing health, and economic hardship. They face growing needs in terms
of finances, housing, nutrition, transportation, recreation, and more.
The DAV Older Veterans Assistance Program was formed to help meet
those needs. It's a community-based program, organized and run by local
DAV and Auxiliary members through their Chapters and Units. To support
that effort, the DAV's National Organization has provided $180,336 in
grant assistance to DAV Chapters with active programs. Chapter
volunteers help older veterans with everyday problems in obtaining
basic life support items like food, shelter, clothing . . . maintaining
a balanced diet . . . getting to the store or a doctor's appointment.
In some communities DAV members even make home repairs, which can be as
simple as replacing burned out light bulbs in ceiling fixtures that an
older veteran can no longer reach or as extensive as building an
entrance ramp to the front door for a veteran who can no longer
negotiate the front steps.
the george h. seal memorial award
The George H. Seal Memorial Award recognizes an outstanding DAV and
Auxiliary VAVS volunteer each year, people whose volunteer activities
closely reflect the values that characterized the life of the late
National DAV VAVS Representative George Seal.
During the 19 years since its inception, this award has become one
of the most esteemed honors presented at the DAV's annual national
convention. VA Medical Center Chiefs of Voluntary Services throughout
the nation are each allowed to submit nominations for one DAV and one
DAVA volunteer. These nominations submitted by VA medical centers
throughout the nation are then thoroughly evaluated by an independent
committee composed of well-known authorities in the field of voluntary
service. The two volunteers selected by the committee receive an
expense-paid trip to the DAV national convention for the award
presentation. After reviewing the nominations of 91 DAV volunteers and
54 Auxiliary volunteers, the committee chose as this year's winners:
Tillman Rutledge.--A life member of DAV Chapter No. 5, Mr. Rutledge
has been a volunteer at the Audie L. Murphy VA Medical Center (VAMC),
San Antonio, Texas for 20 years with over 25,500 hours of service. He
volunteers for the Chaplain, Recreation Therapy, and Voluntary
Services. The Chiefs of these three services are extremely confident in
Mr. Rutledge's invaluable service and support in managing their
programs. He recruits, trains, and monitors volunteers' activities
throughout the state of Texas and specifically at the VAMC. He ensures
that volunteer programs are carried out in keeping with hospital and
organization policies.
Mr. Rutledge is currently serving in his third year as DAV
Department of Texas VAVS Chairman. During this period he has improved
the reporting of volunteer hours throughout Texas. The effect of these
improvements is that volunteers are now receiving their earned
recognition from the National Organization.
His volunteer service does not stop at the hospital--he also serves
as the DAV Benefits Protection Team Leader for the DAV Department of
Texas. In this volunteer position, Mr. Rutledge has been the driving
force behind the Benefits Protection Program in the state.
As a VAVS volunteer, Mr. Rutledge goes the extra mile by assisting
with any special project or activity in the hospital apart from his
assigned duties, anything from a special event to a routine errand or
answering the phone. What is most appreciated is that he performs all
of his duties with joy and as if they were the most important functions
in the hospital. He is not a person who responds negatively to any
request. The only concern that the VA employees have concerning Mr.
Rutledge is that he will do too much because he is so capable and
willing. As the DAV State Commander puts it . . . ``Tillman will
undertake anything asked of him. He does not know the word ``NO;'' it
is not in his vocabulary. He will do anything he can to make matters
better for his fellow veterans. Not only does Mr. Rutledge volunteer at
this facility, but also at Willford Hall Air Force Hospital.
Mr. Rutledge saw a need for notary services for patients. Out of
his own pocket and concern he became a notary public, and provides that
service free of charge to patients and their families. He is often
called at home, sometimes late at night to notarize wills and other
documents.
A former POW, Mr. Rutledge has dedicated his life to helping his
fellow man, specifically veterans. This in itself is noteworthy
considering he was put through tremendous personal pain and disgrace at
the hands of a foreign force. It would have been easy for Mr. Rutledge,
upon his return from the POW experience, to try to wash away the
unpleasant memories and years of torture by staying as far away as
possible from the military and veterans. But that is not his way.
His supervisors describe Mr. Rutledge as . . . ``singularly
superb--absolutely outstanding . . . an inspiration . . . epitomizes
volunteerism at its best and is a credit to the DAV . . . serves the
veteran, his fellow volunteers and the South Texas Veterans Health Care
System with distinction.''
Dorothy Marie Waters.--A life member of DAV Auxiliary Unit No. 83
and a regularly scheduled volunteer at the North Chicago, IL VA Medical
Center in the areas of Community Affairs (Voluntary Service), Medical
Administration Service, and Chaplain Service. As of January 1996, Mrs.
Waters has 43 years of service and 32,000 hours as a volunteer, and she
takes great pride in whatever she is called upon to do. As a front door
greeter to patients and guests, she is a role model in the VAMC's
``Goodwill Ambassador'' program for other volunteers, VAVS
Representatives and even VA staff members. Arriving each morning at
4:30 a.m., she prepares the coffee and refreshments for fellow
volunteers and logs them in for their assignment areas. Her cheerful
nature starts everyone's day on a happy note and a wish for a good day.
At 82 years young and in excellent helath, she drives 20 miles each
way to the VAMC, with the often inclement Chicago weather not deterring
her in the slightest. Her volunteer assignment is between 4:30 a.m. and
3:00 p.m., averaging 52.5 hours per week. Unselfishly assuming her
volunteer work responsibilities above and beyond the call of duty. Due
to the expanded role of the voluntary service department, which
includes public affairs, media support, and information services, she
is often called upon to assist with projects on a moment's notice. Her
accomplishments and contributions to the VAMC testify to Mrs. Waters as
a special individual who brings quality and integrity to the meaning of
volunteer service. She is described as one who has ``truly answered the
call!''
The selection committee once again stated that all of the nominees
are very special volunteers. Each nominee has been awarded a
certificate of merit for outstanding volunteer performance in meeting
the needs of hospitalized veterans.
sports for the disabled
Athletic programs for handicapped veterans have always been
important to the DAV. We have a history of leadership in efforts that
encourage athletic activity among disabled veterans of all ages.
Working together with the VA, DAV leaders are committed to providing
these men and women with opportunities to participate in sports which
many thought would not be possible with their disabilities.
The Veterans' Advisory Committee on Rehabilitation previously cited
a study in which Kathy Stokes, Ph.D., reported that ``the health care
needs of those not involved in sports activities were three times
higher than those involved in some type of sporting program.'' Modern
Healthcare Magazine states that sports offer a better quality of life,
improved self-confidence and self-esteem, and a way for many newly
disabled people to adjust to their handicaps. Athletic activity
provides a new and very necessary social outlet, while improving
physical endurance and maintaining physical fitness.
More and more, doctors recognize it's not enough to stabilize
patients medically and send them home. Without an introduction to
sports or recreation, the hospital will see that person again and
again. Disabled people involved in sports generally encounter fewer
medical problems than those who aren't, therapists say. Athletics
maintain cardiovascular conditioning, increase circulation to the
extremities, and help avert skin breakdowns. Another advantage is that
sports are community-based rather than hospital-based undertakings. The
DAV believes disabled veterans should have the same opportunity to
participate in these activities as those who aren't handicapped.
The DAV National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic.--In March,
more than 240 disabled veterans from 38 states took part in the 10th
National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic at Crested Butte,
Colorado. With more than 500 volunteers--including 147 ski instructors,
most of whom are certified in teaching the disabled--it was the largest
and best Winter Sports Clinic ever conducted. An annual event sponsored
jointly by the DAV and VA, the clinic is open to veterans with visual
impairments, spinal-cord injuries, certain neurological conditions,
orthopedic amputations, or other severe disabilities. Veterans disabled
in World War II, Korea, Vietnam, the Persian Gulf War, and Bosnia were
represented. Our sponsors this year were:
National: Lockheed Martin; Prince Bandar bin Sultan; Sprint.
Gold: American Express Company; Baxter Healthcare
Corporation; Bayer Corporation; The Coca-Cola Company; Johnson
& Johnson Health Care Systems. Inc.; Milbank; Memorial Fund;
PaineWebber.
Silver: American Country Countdown with Bob Kingsley; DAV-
California Rehabilitation Foundation, Inc.; DAV-Department of
Colorado; Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher; General Electric
Medical Systems; London International U.S. Holdings, Inc.;
McGaw, Inc.; The Rex Foundation; Roho, Inc. and Crown
Therapeutics, Inc.; Schiff, Kreidler-Shell, Inc.; Science
Applications International Corporation (SAIC); 3M; Zeneca
Pharmaceuticals.
Bronze: Advanced Prosthetics & Orthotics, Inc.; AMSUS-
Sustaining Members; AT&T Wireless Services; C.R. Bard, Inc.;
Dickstein, Shapiro & Morin, L.L.P.; Evian; Federal Practitioner
John, Cathy, Timothy, and Taffney Fischer; Flex-Foot, Inc.;
Genentech, Inc.; Hoechst Marion Roussel; Kuschall of America;
Eli Lilly and Company; Marsam/Schein Pharmaceuticals, Inc.;
Oakley; Orthotics & Prosthetics National Office; Pfizer, Inc.;
Piper & Marbury, L.L.P.; Radventures, Inc.; SmithKline Beecham
Pharmaceuticals; SSDS, Inc.; Vietnam Veterans of America, Inc.,
Chapter #57.
Using the theme of ``Changing Lives,'' the clinic promotes
rehabilitation by helping physically disabled veterans develop sports
skills through a wide variety of adaptive workshops. With assistance
from hundreds of volunteers, the clinic breaks down physical and
emotional barriers that could otherwise block participation in these
sports. It allows the veterans to regain lost self-confidence and find
their own limits. The workshops focus on such sports skills as downhill
and cross-country skiing, wheelchair basketball, scuba diving,
wheelchair self-defense, golf, and snowmobiling.
dav freedom award
Four years ago we instituted the DAV Freedom Ward at the National
Disabled Veterans Winter Sport Clinic. It is given each year to the
veteran who makes the most progress during the week, showing
outstanding courage and accomplishments in taking a giant step forward
in his or her rehabilitation process. This annual award is sponsored by
His Royal Highness Prince Bandar bin Sultan, Ambassador of Saudi
Arabia. The award's inscription reads: ``Your accomplishments during
the . . . DAV National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic have
proved to the world that physical disability does not bar the doors to
freedom. We salute your desire to excel so that others may follow.''
The 1996 recipient was Martin Begosh of Rockville, Maryland.
A first-time Clinic participant, Mr. Martin Begosh was performing
missions in Bosnia when the military Humvee he was driving hit a land
mine and was destroyed. Two fellow soldiers were uninjured, but Mr.
Begosh's right foot, ankle, and leg were shattered. As he scrambled
from the wreckage, he fell on another land mine. Fortunately this one
was an anti-vehicle land mine and did not detonate. ``I'm not sure
whether I'll lose my foot or not said Mr. Begosh. ``But I don't worry
about that. Considering everything involved with my accident, I realize
it could have been much worse. I'm really just happy to be alive.''
Although Mr. Begosh's leg was still in a cast and he faced many months
of extensive surgery when he went to the clinic, he still attended the
different activities and had an incredible time. ``I had no idea what
to expect from the clinic.'' he said. ``People said it would be a fun
time, but I had no idea it would be as fun as it is!'' He has already
snowmobiled, cross-country skied, and even tried the bi-ski. (All this
from a man who's doctor's instructed him to ``take it easy.'') When he
wasn't tearing up the slopes, he could be found soaking up some sun and
meeting as many people as possible. ``Everybody here has really
motivated and inspired me,'' he said. ``Everywhere you go, guys are
giving it their all. No matter what their disability, they're not
stopping--they're not giving up. I'm really awed by the whole
experience.''
Mr. Begosh is modest about his experience in Bosnia and disagree
with those who consider him a hero. ``Some people say I'm a hero just
because I went to Bosnia and got my foot blown up,'' he said. ``I don't
see why I'm a hero, I volunteered to go over there, fully aware of the
risk factors, and I didn't let that hamper my mission. I'm no braver
than any other soldier who is still over there.''
For Bosnia vet Mr. Begosh, he has been given a second chance at
life and he plans to live each day to its fullest. At only 23, he has
already learned how fragile life can be. Mr. Begosh's plans for the
future are relatively simple: to stay in good spirits, to work at his
recovery, and to do his best to be a good role model for others. ``My
accident has really woken me up and shown me how fragile life can be. I
haven't done half the things in life that I want to do. In a way, I
feel like I've been given a second chance, so I'm going to make sure
that I slow down, enjoy life and, in a sense--live a little.''
Golf for the Disabled.-- Golf is one of the fastest growing and
most popular sports in America, perhaps in the world. Recognizing this
fact, the DAV and DAV Charitable Service Trust support two golf
programs that promote rehabitation and a more active lifestyle for
disabled veterans:
National Amputee Gold Open Championships-- The DAV National
Commander's Trophy honors the disabled veteran who puts in the best
overall performance at the National Amputee Golf Association (NAGA)
championship tournament. Additionally, it recognizes the contributions
the winner has made in his or her own community in furthering the
opportunities of disabled individuals. Last year's 47th annual
tournament in Tenley Park, Illinois, August 15-17, 1995, drew 110
entries, at least 50% of them veterans. The winner of the DAV trophy
was Stuart A.M. Reeder, a combat-disabled Vietnam veteran who lost both
legs in an enemy mine explosion and plays golf from a wheelchair. Mr.
Reeder works with other trauma victims attempting to serve as a
positive influence in their lives. He conducts motivational lectures
several times a year at high schools near his home and organized a work
group for accessibility at the Mid-Tennessee Diocese of the Episcopal
Church. An active member of the Southern States Amputee Golf
Association and NAGA, he also serves as an instructor at adaptive golf
clinics and actively encouraged the production of ``Fore'' Wheel Gold,
a program promoting golf for all disabled persons.
First Swing Golf.-- This is the DAV's eighth year of involvement
with the ``First Swing'' instructional golf program for the disabled.
With support from the DAV Charitable Service Trust, this program
provides therapists throughout the country with instruction on the
rehabilitation benefits of golf. Use of golf therapy at hospitals and
rehabilitation centers has brought the game back into the lives of many
who played prior to becoming disabled. It has also introduced the sport
to countless handicapped people who never dreamed golf would be part of
their lives. During 1995, 28 First Swing seminars and Learn to Golf
clinics were conducted. Participants included 451 therapists; 532
physically challenged people, 123 of whom were disabled veterans; 98
professional golfers; and 342 others.
dav celebrity entertainment program
Continuing to provide a morale boost to hospitalized veterans, the
DAV Celebrity Entertainment Program assures these patients that they're
not forgotten* * *that the American people still appreciate what
they've done for all of us.
We're truly fortunate to sponsor some very talented people with a
great deal of compassion for those veterans, so many of whom face long
and lonely stays in hospitals, often far from family and friends.
Making more than 100 hospital visits last year alone, these wonderful
people include country singer, composer, and entertainer Travis Tritt;
Kevin Dobson, actor/director of television and motion pictures;
television/film actor Barry Corbin; American Country Countdown Host Bob
Kingsley; and Major League Baseball Umpires Larry Barnett and Eddie
Montague. The DAV is indeed honored that such outstanding celebrities
want to be a part of the DAV Voluntary Service Program. We recognize
the enormous demands they face, and we appreciate the gift of their
valuable time. They've demonstrated that they care very deeply about
the needs of disabled veterans.
in closing
It's been a tremendous year for DAV volunteer programs, and many
deserve our thanks. They include DAV and Auxiliary National Commanders
Thomas A. McMasters, III and Barbara L. Hicks, National Officers and
staff of the DAV and its Auxiliary, the staff of National Service and
Legislative Headquarters led by Executive Director David W. Gorman, and
the staff at National Headquarters in Cincinnati led by Executive
Director Richard E. Patterson. Special thanks go to National Adjutant
Arthur H. Wilson for his leadership and dedication to service for all
disabled veterans. My personal thanks to Executive Secretary Linda
DeMartino. Over and again, we've gained invaluable help from our DAV
National Service Officers, Hospital Service Coordinators, and VAVS
leadership teams across the nation. I cannot forget Jim Delgado, who
heads up the VA Voluntary Service program and his assistant Jim Mayer.
And the assistance of the DAV Charitable Service Trust was an essential
ingredient of our 1995 success story.
Last to be mentioned are most important, the members of the
volunteer corps fielded by the DAV and Auxiliary. As has often been
said, ``There is no higher distinction than service to others.'' And
there are none more distinguished than the men and women who are out
there right now, working to bring the comfort of love and the joy of
life to our nation's disabled veterans and their families. Thank you.)
[The following written annual report was submitted by Mr.
Ronald W. Drach, National Employment Director:]
National Commander McMasters, Distinguished Guests and Delegates to
our 75th National Convention:
I am honored and privileged to submit to the delegates at our 75th
National Convention my annual report as your National Employment
Director and provide you with an overview of the various activities of
this department during the past year.
I would like to express my deepest appreciation to National
Commander Thomas A. McMasters, III and his line officers for their
support and cooperation. Commander McMasters' leadership has been
extremely valuable. Additionally, National Adjutant Arthur H. Wilson
has been a strong ally of the employment programs, and I thank him for
his support. I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate
David W. Gorman on his appointment as Executive Director, Washington
Headquarters and thank him for his support and leadership.
Our National Service Officers (NSOs) are unequaled in their skill
and ability to provide representation to our nation's disabled veterans
and their dependents. The NSOs' hard work helps ensure that our
nation's service-connected disabled veterans and their dependents
receive all of their employment rights and benefits. Those rights and
benefits include veterans' preference, affirmative action laws for
service-connected disabled veterans and regulations and employment-
related programs serving homeless veterans.
The National Employment Department works very closely with National
Service Director Kenneth D. Wolfe, National Legislative Director
Richard F. Schultz, National Director of Voluntary Services Bruce G.
Nitsche, and National Director of Communications Thomas K. Keller and
their respective staffs.
I would be remiss if I did not thank National Auxiliary Commander
Barbara Hicks and National Auxiliary Adjutant Maria Tedrow. Both have
provided strong leadership and always respond to our requests for help.
A special thanks is in order to all workers and volunteers at the
department and chapter level and individual DAV members who work so
hard to make all of our programs work.
The National Employment Department handles employment-related
legislative and oversight issues with particular emphasis on service-
connected disabled veterans. As Director, I am responsible for
monitoring several agencies and pending legislation. I work with the
Executive branch and the Congress in program development and oversight.
As a registered lobbyist I appeared before Congress five times
since our last National Convention and worked closely with the National
Legislative staff as they appeared before Congress on issues affecting
veterans' benefits and programs.
Since our last convention, I have appeared before committees of
Congress on issues relating to consolidation of employment and training
programs; vocational rehabilitation; small business initiatives;
programs for homeless veterans; reemployment rights; transition
assistance; and several times on veterans' preference. I have been
working closely with the members and staffs of the Subcommittee on
Education, Employment, and Training of the House Veterans' Affairs
Committee and the Subcommittee on Civil Service of the House Committee
on Government Reform and Oversight to develop a meaningful complaint/
appeal mechanism for veterans who believe veterans' preference or
affirmative action has been violated. Our major emphasis is always on
the service-connected disabled veteran.
Last year, I reported to you on some of the issues relating to the
U.S. Postal Service's (USPS) reduction-in-force. I have had an
opportunity to meet with senior White House officials on the USPS
problems, which resulted in establishing the White House Veterans
Interagency Policy Group. At the initial meeting with White House
staff, a written document was presented outlining many of the major
concerns of the DAV. There have been several follow-up meetings with
senior White House officials to update them on many of these issues.
I oversee various employment issues with the Department of Labor
(DOL), Office of Personnel Management (OPM), the U.S. Postal Service,
the President's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities
(PCEPD), the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the Small
Business Administration (SBA) and the Department of Veterans Affairs
(VA).
dav programs
During the past 12 months I worked closely with National Adjutant
Arthur H. Wilson, Executive Director David W. Gorman, National Service
Director Kenneth D. Wolfe and the entire National Service Department as
we participated, to the fullest extent possible, in the Transition
Assistance Program (TAP) and the Disabled Transition Assistance Program
(DTAP).
TAP and DTAP are joint cooperative efforts among the DOL,
Department of Defense (DoD) and the VA to provide information and
services to active duty military personnel who are within 180 days of
discharge to ensure a smooth transition from military to civilian life.
Services include employment information as well as assistance in
developing job-finding skills, including interviewing techniques and
resume preparation.
Many of our offices participated in TAP/DTAP briefings at various
military installations. Our National Service Officers had contact with
over 93,000 separating military personnel over the period January 1,
1995 to December 31, 1995. Of those, 84,655 were male and 8,838 were
female. We assisted in filing 72,842 claims for VA disability
compensation benefits. Of major concern is how close to discharge these
individuals are prior to attending the TAP session. The law requires
separating service members to attend these sessions 180 days prior to
discharge. According to our reports:
40,815 are within one month of being discharged;
23,835 are within two to three months of being discharged;
18,579 are within four to six months of being discharged; and
10,528 are within six months or more of being discharged.
dol programs
DOL programs for veterans are administered by the Veterans'
Employment and Training Service (VETS).
Heading VETS is Assistant Secretary of Labor Preston Taylor, who
was appointed by President Clinton and confirmed by the Senate. The DAV
has enjoyed a positive, open communication with his office.
Programs under VETS include Veterans' Reemployment Rights (VRR) and
Title IVc of the Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA). VETS also
provides grants to states to employ Local Veterans' Employment
Representatives (LVERs) and operate the Disabled contract basis,
funding for the National Veterans' Training Institute (NVTI).
I reported last year that the members of the Congressionally
mandated Advisory Committee on Veterans' Employment and Training
(ACVET) were at last appointed by Labor Secretary Robert B. Reich in
November 1994, and the first meeting was convened in December 1994.
Secretary Reich asked and I agreed to serve as Chairman of the Advisory
Committee. The Committee has met several times since then to discuss
major employment and training issues as they affect our nation's
veterans. The major purpose of ACVET is to advise the Secretary of
Labor on employment and training issues relating to veterans. ACVET
members are in the process of planning a national veterans' employment
forum for later this year.
The forum will focus on veterans' employment issues relative to
private sector, federal government, and state and local government
employment. The participants will be asked to come up with issues and
solutions to advance employment opportunities for veterans. There will
be special emphasis on service-connected disabled veterans.
va programs
Our department is involved in several VA activities--the agency's
personnel policies as they relate to employment of disabled veterans
and the Vocational Rehabilitation program. I chair the Secretary's
Advisory Committee on Rehabilitation, which was established by law in
1980 to advise the Secretary on issues affecting all VA rehabilitation
programs.
In May 1995, the Subcommittee on Education, Employment and Training
held an oversight hearing to discuss how well the Department of Labor's
DVOPs were working with the VA's Office of Vocational Rehabilitation to
assure quality job placement was occurring for those service-connected
disabled veterans completing training under vocational rehabilitation.
The results of the hearing revealed that little cooperation was ongoing
between the two agencies and they were put on notice to work closer
together to improve employment services.
As a result, the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation and Counseling
established a ``Design Team'' and ``Steering Committee'' to review how
the VA provides those services and make recommendations for meaningful
change. The Director of Vocational Rehabilitation and Counseling asked
me in February of this year to serve on the Steering Committee. The
final report was provided to the Steering Committee during the week of
June 10, 1996.
On a separate track, the Department of Labor developed a new
training module through the National Veterans' Training Institute
(NVTI) in Colorado to provide training, particularly to disabled
veterans outreach program specialists (DVOPs), to deal with the unique
problems many of the vocational rehabilitation clients have. I assisted
in the development and assessment of the curriculum. We will be
monitoring the ongoing development and implementation of these new
initiatives to ensure that disabled veterans under vocational
rehabilitation actually obtain meaningful employment consistent with
their training.
opm programs
The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is responsible for
enforcing the veterans' preference provisions of Title 5, USC. It is
also responsible for administering affirmative action mandated by
Section 4214, Title 38, USC, and the Veterans' Readjustment Appointment
(VRA) authority.
OPM has delegated most hiring authority to individual federal
agencies. Consequently, each agency hiring site has the flexibility to
circumvent, intentionally or unintentionally, veterans' preference. In
response, we have been working closely with OPM staff and meet with
them at least quarterly regarding this and other issues of concern to
veterans.
Congress and the Clinton Administration are reviewing the Office of
Personnel Management with a view towards streamlining and reinventing
programs. We are watching these proposals, and will be vigilant to
assure any changes result in positive actions on veterans' preference.
The House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Education, Employment
and Training and the House Subcommittee on Civil Service have held
hearings on veterans' preference with a specific reference to ``appeal
rights'' for those preference eligibles who believe their rights may
have been violated. DAV had significant discussions and input with
staff of these committees and on June 6, 1996, a bill was introduced
proposing positive changes to veterans' preference to include an appeal
process. We are optimistic that positive action will happen during this
session of Congress.
Additionally, legislation has been introduced at the request of the
Administration to modify the Civil Service system. Within that
proposal, veterans' preference will remain intact. We will monitor the
progress of this legislation to be sure that veterans' preference is
not weakened and, hopefully, actually strengthened.
In addition, we routinely receive inquiries from service-connected
disabled veterans who are seeking federal employment. Many veterans
inquire about employment opportunities, veterans' preference, and the
Veterans' Readjustment Appointment (VRA) Authority. They also want to
know their rights and remedies under federal employment laws.
We respond by providing technical information and referring
veterans to the appropriate DAV National Service Office for assistance.
We also answer inquiries regarding dual compensation, retirement and
health issues, federal employee's compensation for work-related
injuries, transfers and promotions.
For the past several years, we have worked with OPM and other
federal agencies in developing a disabled veteran workshop to be
conducted during a national symposium on employment opportunities for
people with disabilities.
u.s. postal service programs
We continue to receive complaints about the agency's employment
practices from our NSOs, service-connected disabled veterans and
others.
These complaints tend to reflect USPS' discriminatory practices and
a lack of knowledge of veterans' laws. We initially try to resolve
these complaints informally, a strategy that has proved successful. At
other times we advise the veteran to file an Equal Employment
Opportunity Commission (EEOC) complaint or appeal to the Merit Systems
Protection Board (MSPB). the USPS is now attempting to implement the
MSPB rulings which found the USPS ``reorganization'' violated veterans'
reduction-in-force protections. We anticipate problems as the USPS
appears to have taken short cuts in establishing a ``compliance RIF
register.'' We are concerned that more RIF violations may occur, and
will continue to monitor that effort. Postal officials in the
Postmaster General's office recently agreed to meet with us on an
ongoing basis to discuss this and other issues.
small business administration (sba)
We continue to hold discussions with the SBA on providing direct
loan assistance to veterans who wish to start their own business. We
support direct loans for business start-ups, but we also believe that
``set-asides'' in the federal government contracting and procurement
process must be made available to service-connected disabled veteran-
owned businesses. The set-aside would be similar to that currently
provided under the 8a Program for minority-owned businesses.
We receive and respond to inquiries from service-connected disabled
veterans interested in starting their own business or getting federal
contracts for existing veteran-owned businesses.
Assistance to veterans seeking business start-up aid includes
putting them in touch with the local SBA office, which as a veterans'
affairs officer. Many veterans do not understand that the SBA does not
offer direct loans, but they can obtain information and advice through
the veterans' affairs officers on the agency's loan guaranty process.
Many service-connected disabled veterans business owners vying for
federal contracts are sometimes surprised to learn that they are not
eligible as ``8a contractors'' or any other special consideration.
Certain minority-owned businesses that receive special consideration
for contracts with federal departments and agencies are considered ``8a
contractors.'' These contracts are generally known as ``set-asides''
and are available to minority-owned businesses and are not let through
the normal competitive process.
We advise those veterans that the DAV is working with the
appropriate committees in Congress to establish a separate set-aside
program for service-connected disabled veteran-owned businesses as well
as a separate business loan program within the VA.
equal employment opportunity commission (eeoc) programs
The EEOC is the final administrative authority on all disability
employment discrimination cases filed against federal departments and
agencies. Under current legislation, disabled veterans are not
specifically identified as a covered group protected by anti-
discrimination laws. However, if a disabled veteran meets the statutory
definition of a person with a disability (most disabled veterans will
meet that definition) and if any such disabled veteran believes he or
she has been discriminated against, a complaint may be filed through
the equal employment opportunity process.
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the EEOC
receives, investigates and prosecutes disability civil rights
complaints against nonfederal employees. We advise disabled veterans of
their rights under that process.
other activities
We monitor the aforementioned agencies' activities and programs,
the Congressional Record, Federal Register and a myriad of other
publications to keep abreast of changing laws, regulations and policies
regarding disabled veterans. When appropriate, we respond to proposed
regulations that may impact on veterans' employment and training
programs.
When significant legislative, regulatory or policy changes are
announced by these agencies, we notify our NSOs through bi-monthly
Employment Bulletins and special reports. The DAV Magazine also reports
on activities of the Employment Department.
nongovernment programs
We have been involved with numerous nongovernment entities
interested in employment and training programs. These include the
Interstate Conference of Employment Security Agencies, International
Association of Personnel in Employment Security, National Organization
on Disability. National Rehabilitation Association, and the Society for
Human Resource Management (formerly the American Society of Personnel
Administration).
In conclusion, I want to again thank everyone for their support and
encouragement.
[The following annual written report was submitted by Mr.
Richard F. Schultz, National Legislative Director:]
National Commander Thomas A. McMasters III, Distinguished Guests
and Delegates to This 75th National Convention:
As your National Legislative Director, it is indeed a great
privilege and honor to present the annual report of the National
Legislative Department to the 75th National Convention of the Disabled
American Veterans.
At the outset, I wish to express my deep gratitude to Commander
Thomas A. McMasters III, and National Adjutant Arthur H. Wilson for
their unwavering support and leadership. As a result of their
collective efforts, the DAV has continued to renew itself and its
commitment to provide the very best possible service to our membership
and to all our nation's 2.2 million service-connected disabled
veterans, their dependents and survivors.
I also wish to personally thank former Deputy National Legislative
Director, now Executive Director of Washington Headquarters, David W.
Gorman, for his outstanding work, while a member of the National
Legislative Staff. I know that David will continue his excellent work
on behalf of America's service-connected disabled veterans in his new
position. I also wish to thank Legislative Counsel Joseph A. Violante
and Assistant National Legislative Director Rick Surratt, as well as
Lennox E. Gilmer who served as Associate National Legislative Director
before accepting his current duties as a Judicial Appeals
Representative. Clearly, their dedication to the principles of the DAV
has touched the lives of countless service-connected disabled veterans,
their dependents and survivors. I am very proud to be associated with
these dedicated veterans' advocates. Finally, I thank the DAV's
National Service Officers, whose support and dedication to service has
greatly enhanced our efforts here in our nation's capital.
Although 1995/1996 was not so productive in terms of new
legislation for service-connected disabled veterans, it was a
successful year in terms of our grassroots efforts. We prevented the
introduction of many proposals to cut, reduce or terminate veterans'
benefits into the 104th Congress (1995-1996). This was due in large
measure to quick action by DAV and DAV Auxiliary members and their
families, who contacted their elected officials to express their
opposition to these proposals. Grassroots efforts stopped the provision
to terminate disability compensation to certain mentally incompetent
veterans from the VA appropriation bill (H.R. 2099). Those efforts also
resulted in clarification that a lobbying reform measure (H.R. 2564)
would not adversely affect the office space DAV and other veterans'
service organization (VSOs) receive from VA. Accordingly, I would like
to take this opportunity to personally thank all DAV and DAV Auxiliary
members for their grassroots efforts in support of the National
Legislative Department, especially the members of DAV's Benefit
Protection Team.
I am extremely proud of the work being done by the Benefit
Protection Team leaders and their teams. Their efforts on behalf of the
National Legislative staff is greatly appreciated and, in fact, it has
been one of the main reasons for the success of our grassroots efforts.
I commend their dedication to that work and look forward to working
with them in the future on issues affecting service-connected disabled
veterans.
This past year has been a very trying year, one in which the
legislative staff has had to rely heavily upon the grassroots efforts
of the members of the DAV and its Auxiliary to combat the direct
attacks upon the benefits and services earned by service-connected
disabled veterans in service to our country and administered through
the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). We commemorated the 50th
Anniversary of the end of World War II in September 1995, a war that
demonstrated America's unprecedented ability to carry out and win a war
on two fronts, in Europe and in the Pacific. During the past year, we
found those same heroic veterans of World War II and their fellow
veterans embroiled in another war on two fronts. The first front
involved adequate funding for the integrity of VA programs, benefits,
and services. On the second front, the VSOs were subjected to
unprecedented attacks that threatened irreparable harm to their ability
to represent veterans in their claims for VA benefits and services and
as veterans' advocates before Congress.
I have often said it before: No matter how just our cause, we have
nothing without the support of the caring, dedicated members of the DAV
and Auxiliary. But with those members, we are capable of protecting and
seeking meaningful improvements in the federal benefits and services
earned as a result of our sacrifices in defense of America. They give
us the ability to withstand the attacks against veterans' benefits.
They are responsible for our ability to represent veterans and advocate
on their behalf. This is the true measure of their dedication and their
drive.
I caution, however, that we cannot rest on our laurels. Past
accomplishments can lull us into a false sense of security. Therefore,
we must be ever vigilant, redoubling our resolve to ensure that VA
receives adequate funding for its services and programs.
The President has submitted his Fiscal Year 1997 through 2002
budget proposal to Congress. In turn, the Congress has adopted a 6-year
budget plan which differs from the President's. Significant changes to
the President's budget plan by Congress for veterans programs include:
Increasing the Montgomery GI Bill $5.00 per month;
Allowing surviving spouse to retain the veteran's
compensation pro rated to date of death instead of the month
before veteran died;
Increasing from one year to two years the period of time for
which past due benefits payments can be paid to a surviving
spouse in cases where the veteran dies while awaiting the
processing of a claim by VA;
Increasing automobile allowance available to certain severely
service-connected disabled veterans by $1000; and
Authorizing pro bono legal assistance program for financially
needy veterans in proceedings before COVA.
Action now has shifted to the appropriation process. The House of
Representatives approved the VA's FY 1997 (10-1-96 through 9c31-97)
appropriation on June 26, 1996. Major changes to the President's budget
request include:
An increase of $60 million over the President's budget
request for VA medical care;
An increase of $2 million over the President's budget request
for funding the operations of the Veterans Benefits
Administration; and
An additional $20 million for VA prosthetic research
projects.
The Senate will now consider the FY 1997 VA appropriation bill. In
all likelihood, their bill will differ from the House appropriation
bill which will require a conference to work out their differences.
Once differences are worked out in Congress, VA's appropriation bill
will then go to the President for his signature or veto. We will keep
you informed.
In all our grassroots dealings with members of Congress, their
staffs and the general public, it is important to remind them that the
DAV is not acting in an irresponsible manner. We are not simply asking
for more, more, more. Nor are we asking to be spared in the attempt to
bring order to the financial crisis facing our nation. We remain
willing to sacrifice. After all, it is the service-connected veteran
who has sacrificed the most in defense of this nation's principles and
the ideals cherished by its citizens.
All we ask is fairness. Fairness that veterans' programs not be
singled out for disproportionate cuts when other lesser priority
federal programs go unscathed or realize significant enhancements. Not
is it equitable to allow ``corporate welfare'' to flourish at the
expense of American taxpayers.
According to a recent national survey, 77% of those who expressed
their opinion preferred to increase funding for veterans' programs to
keep up with inflation rather than reduce the federal deficit or reduce
taxes. Of those polled, 96% believe our nation has an obligation to
provide ongoing disability and death benefits to veterans and their
families for injuries and fatalities occurring while in the armed
services. While this poll demonstrates the commitment of America's
citizens to our nation's sick and disabled veterans, we hear other
voices from well-organized and financed groups and coalitions, as well
as members of Congress and the President's cabinet. These voices
continue to call for reduction, elimination, or taxation of
compensation payments to service-connected disabled veterans and their
dependents. Do not be fooled by the rhetoric of these ``self-appointed
watchdogs.'' Do not listen when they say these cuts will not take
benefits away from combat veterans or our most severely disabled
veterans. These cuts are so deep, they go to the heart of the VA
system. They threaten the very integrity and viability of all VA
programs.
Since last year's report to the National Convention, the National
Legislative Staff has appeared before committees and subcommittees of
the United States Congress on numerous occasions, presenting DAV's
views on a wide range of issues affecting service-connected disabled
veterans and their families. In addition, National Commander Thomas A.
McMasters, III and other Headquarters personnel have participated in
hearings before Congress. During the first session of the 104th
Congress (January-December 1995) and the first half of the second
session (January-June 1996), Congress did very little on veterans'
issues. In fact, according to the Congressional Monitor, a daily digest
of Congressional action, the first session of the 104th Congress was
the second longest in history; however, the 104th Congress had the
lowest legislative output since 1933, when January was established as
the month for the start of a new Congress. A total of only 88 bills
were enacted as Public Law in 1995 (only one, our COLA, was a veterans'
bill). This was down from 225 Public Laws in 1994.
For the second time in three years, a member of the legislative
staff went to Vietnam as a member of the Presidential Delegation on
POW/MIAs. Unfortunately, our concerns about the extent of the
Vietnamese cooperation on the fullest possible accounting of our POW/
MIAs fell on deaf ears. After the last trip, in March 1996, DAV, the
American Legion, and the National League of Families of POW/MIAs
submitted a minority report, taking issue with the findings of the
delegation that the Vietnamese were significantly cooperating with our
efforts to account for our POW/MIAs. As you may know, President Clinton
recently certified that the Vietnamese have cooperated in ``full
faith,'' thereby paving the way for full normalization of relations
between the United States and Vietnam, including the naming of an
ambassador to Vietnam, Representative Pete Peterson (D-FL), a former
POW of the Vietnam War.
As we look at the overall situation faced by the DAV's National
Legislative staff, it becomes sadly apparent that our success will not
be measured in the number of new initiatives passed by the 104th
Congress. Rather, success will be measured in the number of current
benefits, programs, and services we are able to protect from
elimination, reduction, or taxation. Clearly, there is a ``disconnect''
between what the grateful citizens of this nation would like to see
happen with respect to the defenders of America's freedoms and what
Congress and the Administration have in store for America's veterans.
Below is a compilation of legislation affecting DAV and DAVA
members:
Major Veterans' Legislation Enacted Into Law Since the 74th National
Convention
cost-of-living adjustment in compensation and dic, public law 104-57,
enacted november 22, 1995--h.r. 2394
This measure increases VA's service-connected disability and death
compensation (the same flat-rate COLA for old law and new law DIC) by
2.6%. This was the smallest increase in more than 20 years due to the
low inflation rate. These rates were rounded down to the next whole
dollar.
Social Security recipients also received a 2.6% cost-of-living
adjustment. Accordingly, effective December 1, 1995, VA compensation
rates were increased by that amount. The increase also applied to
additional compensation for dependents, annual clothing allowance and
the statutory awards, including the ``K'' award.
defense authorization act of 1996, public law 104-106, enacted february
10, 1996--s. 1124
In the act authorizing appropriations for the Department of Defense
for FY 1996, there is a provision authorizing the award of the Purple
Heart Medal to persons who were wounded while being held as a prisoner
of war (POW) before April 25, 1962.
The law provides that a former POW who was wounded before April 25,
1962, while being held as a POW or while being taken captive, is
entitled to an award of the Purple Heart Medal in the same manner and
under the same standards in effect for former POWs who were wounded on
or after April 25, 1962.
This act fulfills a long-standing DAV mandate to have the Purple
Heart Medal issued to former POWs injured during captivity prior to
April 25, 1962.
va health care delivery act, public law 104-110, enacted february 13,
1996--h.r. 2353
This measure extended certain expiring authorities at the VA
relating to the delivery of medical care and other items. It extends
until December 31, 1996, the special eligibility for VA inpatient care
accorded to certain veterans exposed to ionizing radiation, Agent
Orange, and environmental hazards during the Persian Gulf War. It also
extends until December 31, 1996, the special eligibility for VA
outpatient care accorded to Persian Gulf War veterans.
Additionally, this measure extended until December 31, 1997, the
following programs and activities:
VA's authority to contract for community-based drug and
alcohol care.
VA's pilot program of non-institutional alternatives to
nursing home care;
VA's authority to enter into agreements with non-profit
organizations and state and local governments to acquire real
property in order to furnish services to homeless veterans;
VA's authority to determine appropriate locality pay for VA
nurse anesthetists;
VA's health professional scholarship program;
VA's authority to enter into enhanced-use leases with non-VA
entities;
VA's program of community-based residential care for homeless
chronically mentally ill veterans;
VA's authority to make grants to entities for the purpose of
furnishing services and assistance to homeless veterans; and
the Department of Labor's homeless veterans' reintegration
projects, authorizing appropriations of $10 million for this
program.
This measure also made permanent the VA's authority to guarantee
loans which bear an interest rate negotiated between the veteran and
the lender; the VA's authority to guarantee loans that include costs
related to making energy-efficient improvements to the dwelling that is
the object of the loan; and the VA's authority to permit a lender who
is authorized to make loans which are automatically guaranteed to
review appraisals.
omnibus appropriations act of 1996, public law no. 104-134, enacted
april 26, 1996--h.r. 3019
The FY 1996 appropriations battle was the most protracted federal
budget battle in modern history. It came to an end on April 26, 1996,
when President Clinton signed the final version of the bill, H.R. 3019,
appropriating $164 billion for the last several months of FY 1996.
Before discussing the belated enactment of the FY 1996 VA
appropriation, I believe it is important to go back to the initial VA,
HUD and Independent Agencies Appropriations bill, H.R. 2099.
On July 31, 1995, H.R. 2099 was passed by the House and sent to the
Senate for consideration. As you will recall, this measure contained
the provision to terminate compensation to certain mentally incompetent
veterans. On September 27, 1995, the Senate passed H.R. 2099, which
also contained the provision to terminate compensation to certain
mentally incompetent veterans, as well as some provisions which
differed from the House-passed bill.
On November 16, 1995, a conference committee completed its work on
H.R. 2099, striking the provision to terminate compensation to certain
mentally incompetent veterans and resolving the differences between the
House- and Senate-passed bills. On November 29, 1995, the House passed
a motion by Representative David Obey (D-WI) to recommit (return) the
conference report to the conferees with instructions to the House
conferees to increase VA health care funding by $213 million, the
amount contained in the House-passed measure.
On December 6, 1995, the second conference was completed; however,
no additional money was provided for VA health care. On December 7,
1995, Representative Obey again attempted to recommit the measure to
the conference committee with instructions to increase VA health care
funding by $213 million; however, this attempt failed and the House
adopted the measure without any additional funding for VA health care.
President Clinton vetoed the appropriations bill on December 18,
1995. In vetoing this measure, the President stated that ``H.R. 2099
would * * * leave veterans seeking medical care with fewer treatment
options.'' The President went on to further state that ``the bill
provides less than I requested for the medical care of this Nation's
veterans. It includes significant restrictions on the funding for the
Secretary of Veterans Affairs that appear designed to impede him from
carrying out his duties as an advocate for veterans. Further, the bill
does not provide necessary funding for VA hospital construction.''
In order to pay disability compensation and dependency and
indemnity compensation by January 1, 1996, Congress needed to pass a
resolution authorizing the VA to make these payments. This measure
passed and January compensation checks were received in a timely
fashion. On January 5, 1996, Congress passed and the President signed
another measure that allows for the payment of existing veterans'
benefits through the end of September 1996.
In March 1996, Congressional leaders considered compiling and
passing an omnibus spending bill which encompassed the five spending
measures that had not yet become law at that time, including VA, HUD,
and Independent Agencies. National Commander McMasters, in a letter to
the members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, expressed the DAV's
concerns about a provision of the VA's appropriation bill which, if
enacted, would have a devastating impact on the office of the VA
Secretary. Commander McMasters noted that ``the objectionable
provisions of this measure are the unreasonable, and seemingly
punitive, limitations on being placed on the personnel and travel
budget for the office of the VA Secretary as well as three other of its
supporting offices.'' Should this measure pass, the Secretary would be
required to furlough a significant number of very dedicated career VA
employees over the next six months. In addition, the activities of the
Center for Minority Affairs and the Center for Women Veterans would be
significantly curtailed. Further, the restrictions imposed by this
measure would not only prevent the Secretary from executing his duties
to oversee VA operations, but would also curtail other activities which
directly support our nation's sick and disabled veterans, such as the
Disabled Veterans' Winter Sports Clinic, National Veterans' Wheelchair
Games, Golden Age Games, and Creative Arts Festival.
National Commander McMasters called upon the members of the Senate
Appropriations Committee to sponsor and support an amendment to the
VA's FY 1996 Appropriation Bill that would remove these unwarranted
spending restrictions.
On March 7, 1996, H.R. 3019, an appropriations bill to fund those
departments, including VA, and agencies not yet funded for FY 1996, was
brought to the floor of the House for a vote. That bill contained
provisions to severely limit the travel fund of the Secretary of
Veterans Affairs and to restrict the number of personnel positions
available to the Secretary
Prior to the vote on the bill, Congressman David Obey (D-WI)
offered a motion to recommit (return) H.R. 3019 to the Committee on
Appropriations with the instruction that the committee report the bill
back to the House with an amendment to properly fund the Secretary of
Veterans Affairs' travel budget and to not eliminate personnel
positions available to the Secretary.
Congressman Obey noted that the intent of this amendment is
supported by the DAV and other VSOs. For the record, he read a
paragraph from DAV's letter sent to every member of congress wherein it
was stated that the restrictions placed on the Secretary's travel and
the number of personnel positions available would have an adverse
affect on ``activities which directly support our nation's sick and
disabled veterans.'' By a vote of 182 to 228, Congressman Obey's motion
to recommit was defeated. By a vote of 209 to 206, H.R. 3019 was passed
by the House.
The Senate version did not contain any restrictions on the number
of personnel available to the Secretary; however, it did contain the
travel restrictions.
At mid-afternoon on April 25, the House voted 399 to 25 to adopt
the conference report on H.R. 3019. The Senate cleared the bill later
that evening on a vote of 88 to 11.
On April 26, President Clinton signed the measure into law,
enabling the government to continue operating normally for the
remainder of FY 1996. Democrats and Republicans declared victory in
this long war of attrition over spending priorities for FY 1996. The FY
1996 VA, HUD, and Independent Agencies appropriations, H.R. 3019, Pub.
L. No. 104-134 provides $38.59 billion for the VA, $883 million less
than requested by President Clinton in his proposed FY 1996 budget.
This budget retains travel restrictions on Secretary Brown;
however, the restrictions on personnel in the Secretary's office were
removed. While we are pleased that Congress removed the treat of staff
cuts in the Secretary's office, we are still concerned that the travel
restrictions on Secretary Brown, as we understand, will make it
difficult for him to visit any VA hospital or regional office around
the country, or attend veterans' conventions.
Provisions of this appropriation bill include:
health care
For FY 1996, VA will have $16.564 billion available for VA medical
care. This is approximately $400 million less than the President's
request, but approximately $350 million above the enacted FY 1995
appropriations.
The total Veterans' Health Administration appropriation for FY 1996
is $16.885 billion, approximately $415 million less than requested by
the President. In addition to the health care spending noted above,
this amount includes $257 million for medical and prosthetic research,
$5 million more than enacted in FY 1995; $64 million for medical
administration and miscellaneous operating expense (MAMOE), a decrease
of $6 million from the FY 1995 enacted level and $8 million less than
requested by the President; and no funds were provided for health
professional scholarship, although the President's request included $10
million.
general operating expense (goe)
This account provides funding for the personnel and equipment costs
needed to administer nonmedical VA programs. The appropriation for FY
1996 provides for $880 million, a decrease of $10 million from the FY
1995 enacted appropriation and $36 million less than the President's
request. Included in the funding for GOE is $666 million for the
Veterans' Benefits Administration, a decrease of $28 million from the
amount requested by the President.
construction
For FY 1996, VA will take a significant funding cut in major
construction. The FY 1995 enacted appropriation for major construction
was $354 million, compared to $136 million in FY 1996. The President
had requested $514 million or $378 million more than Congress
appropriated. Minor construction spending is set at $190 million, an
increase of almost $40 million above the enacted FY 1995 level but $39
million below the President's request. Congress appropriated $48
million for State Veterans Homes grants and parking garage revolving
fund, an increase of $3 million above that requested by the President.
National Cemetery System
The appropriation for the National Cemetery System remains at the
FY 1995 enacted level, $73 million. This amount is $2 million less than
the President's request of $75 million.
Mandatory spending (veterans benefits)
There was no difference in the amount requested by the President
and the amount passed by Congress for funding for compensation and
pension and readjustment benefits. The funding for compensation and
pension benefits is $18.332 billion. Readjustment benefits are set at
$1.345 billion. The spending level for housing programs is $645
million, $12 million less than the President's request of $657 million.
the lobbying disclosure act, public law 104-65, enacted december 19,
1996--s. 1060
This measure was enacted to provide for the disclosure of lobbying
activities engaged in to influence the federal government. Added to
this was an amendment offered by Senator Alan Simpson (R-WY) which
proposed to prohibit certain non-profit organizations that lobby from
receiving federal funds. The term ``federal funds'' was defined as
``constituting an award, grant, loan, or any other form.'' This
language was broad enough to include the non-monetary assistance, i.e.,
space and office facilities provided by the VA to VSOs.
National Commander McMasters sent a letter to every member of the
Senate expressing DAV's concerns with the language of the amendment.
This bill was sent to the House for their consideration and was passed
by the House. The concerns of DAV and other VSOs were taken under
consideration by members of the House, however. With your assistance,
your DAV Legislative Staff was able to convince Representatives Charles
T. Canady (R-FL) and Representative Patrick Kennedy (D-RI) to make a
statement on the floor of the House that it was not the intent of H.R.
2564 (the companion bill to S. 1060) to adversely impact upon the DAV's
office space received from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The
House passed the same language contained in S. 1060 so that the measure
would not have to go to conference.
It is our belief, however, that the statements made by
Representatives Canady and Kennedy demonstrate that there was no
Congressional intent to affect our ability to represent veterans by
eliminating the availability of free office space provided to VSOs.
They both are to be commended and thanked for their efforts on our
behalf.
DAV Legislative Activities/Pending Legislation in the Second Session of
the 104th Congress
va funding for fiscal year 1997
On March 19, 1996, President Clinton sent Congress his Fiscal Year
(FY) 1997 budget (October 1, 1996 through September 31, 1997) request
totaling $1.6 trillion in federal government spending. The President's
seven-year balanced budget plan includes $38.8 billion for the VA for
FY 1997. This request represents an increase of almost $500 million
above the level approved by Congress for FY 1996, $444 million of the
increase is for medical care.
The Administration's budget requests $18.7 billion to provide
compensation and pension benefits to veterans and their survivors. More
than 2.2 million veterans and 303,000 survivors will receive
compensation benefits in 1977.
The Administration's proposed FY 1997 VA budget would support an
employment level of 217,747 employees, a decrease of almost 6,000
employees from the FY 1996 estimate.
General operating expenses (GOE)
The GOE account provides funding for the personnel and equipment
costs needed to administer VA nonmedical programs. In FY 1997, the
administration requests budget authority of $843.7 million, a decrease
of $4.4 million below the FY 1996 level. This funding level requires a
major reduction in the average employment level, almost 1,100
nonmedical care employees, during FY 1997.
Highlights of the GOE budget include:
While the Veterans Benefit Administration (VBA) will receive
an $18 million increase in budget authority, employee levels
will be cut by 624 employees, from 12,700 in FY 1996 to 12,076
in FY 1997.
Budget authority for the administration of Compensation and
Pension (C&P) benefits is $225.6 million. This is $51.3 million
above the current level approved by Congress and will support
4,958 employees. The net increase of $51.3 million and 952
employees over the FY 1996 estimate is due solely to the
transfer of Veterans' Assistance Service (VAS) personnel into
the C&P service. While the C&P (VAS) employees level will
include 1,123 additional employees from VAS, there will be a
net reduction of 171 employees available to process C&P claims.
There is a $118.3 million decrease in readjustment benefits
for FY 1997. The FY 1997 budget authority request is $1.23
billion. The Readjustment benefits account makes payments to
eligible veterans to assist in their readjustment to civilian
life and to eligible dependents.
Budget authority of $49 million is requested in FY 1997 by
the Administration to support the Vocational Rehabilitation and
Counseling (VR&C) program. This represents a $5 million
decrease in funding. The employee level includes a transfer of
138 employees from VAS for a net gain of 109 employees over the
FY 1996 levels or approximately 826 employees for FY 1997.
In FY 1997, VBA has set a goal to process original
compensation claims 33 days faster than in the previous fiscal
year. In FY 1996, VBA anticipates completing original
compensation claims in 150 days and it will attempt to reduce
that number to 117 in FY 1997. In addition, the pending
caseload is expected to be reduced from about 378,600 cases at
the end of FY 1995 to 277,000 cases at the end of FY 1997, an
expected reduction of 27%.
Funds are requested by the Administration to continued
development of VBA's VETSNET initiative, which will replace
computers and software currently used to process veterans'
compensation and pension checks.
General Administration's budget authority will be cut by the
Administration from $214 million to $201 million in FY 1997.
General Administration consists of the office of the Secretary,
five Assistant Secretaries and three department-level staff
offices (Board of Contract Appeals, Board of Veterans' Appeals
and office of the General Counsel).
The National Cemetery System's (NSC) budget will increase
from $73 million to $77 million, a 5.5% increase in the
Administration's request. The employee level will increase by
14 to 1,335 employees. New Cemeteries are planned to open in
Seattle (11/97), Chicago (11/99), and Dallas/Fort Worth (11/
99).
The Board of Veterans' Appeals (BVA) will increase by 50
employees to help address timeliness issues in processing
veterans' appeals.
Health care
For FY 1977, the President is requesting $17.008 billion for the
delivery of health care to our nation's veterans. This represents an
increase of $444 million over the FY 1996 level and will result in a
projected loss of the equivalent of 5,154 employees from the FY 1996
level.
Continuing the pattern established over decades, small budget
increases do not maintain the health care delivery system at previous
year's level because of the increased cost of providing health care.
While the Medical Care portion of the overall Medical Program's budget
will increase by $444 million, 72% ($321 million) will fund a payroll
increase for medical staff and $213 million is budgeted to cover the
cost for inflation and changes in other VA health care related costs.
Thus, to make up the difference, staffing is reduced by 5,154 employees
under the President's request and projected savings of nearly $88
million due to program changes in the delivery of health care.
This budget request is based, in part, on certain innovative
management improvements which began in FY 1996. These improvements
should continue to have a positive impact through reduced costs due to
efficiencies which should result in positive program improvements.
Taken together, these management initiatives are projected to result in
savings due to: decentralization which will reduce administrative
layers, reduction in the number of personnel by reducing layers of
management, consolidation and realignment of medical center services,
integration of services and administrative functions, increased
utilization of available community services, and cost savings due to
the shift from inpatient to ambulatory care.
In part, this budget reflects the current political debate in
Washington over achieving a federal balanced budget by the year 2002.
Many in Congress, in this administration, and in the press have
professed the view that the VA budget has been untouchable while other
federal departments and programs have felt significant cuts. The DAV's
view is that the VA budget, particularly in health care, has been
virtually straightlined in terms of real dollar increases for decades.
This has resulted in VA's inability to fully meet veterans' health care
needs. We believe VA must provide the full spectrum of programs and
services necessary to meet the health care needs of disabled veterans.
We support VA's administrative initiatives to continue to provide high
quality medical services to veterans in a continuing climate of fiscal
restraint.
Other programs and services affected by the President's budget
include:
An increase of $944,000 to $111.1 million for the Beneficiary
Travel Program.
An increase to nearly $976 million to enhance the quality of
care provided to veterans through various educational and
training programs.
Continued expansion of VA's geriatric and extended care
programs to nearly $104 million for much needed non-
institutional long-term care initiatives such as Hospital-Based
Home Care, Adult Day Health Care, Home Health Aide Services,
and Community Residential Care.
VA programs to assist homeless veterans would increase by $3
million to $92.5 million.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder treatment programs would see
an increase of $2 million to $61 million.
The Readjustment Counseling Service (Vet Centers) would
receive a $2.1 million increase to $66 million.
The VA would continue expansion of sharing agreements to
include VA/DoD sharing of resources.
In FY 1997, VA projects that 2.9 million individual veterans would
choose VA as their health care provider. These veterans will account
for one million hospital admissions and 29 million outpatient visits.
The proposed $257 million medical and prosthetics research budget
for FY 1997 represents no increase above the 1996 level and is
projected to result in a reduction of 179 employees and 145 research
projects.
Construction
VA's FY 1997 budget request of $439 million is a significant drop
from the 1996 budget request of $742.9 million. However, it is a
significant increase over the Congressional appropriation of $326
million. A breakdown of the request is as follows:
Major construction projects--$250 million, an increase of
approximately $114 million from FY 1996; and
Minor construction projects--$189 million, a decrease of
$759,000 from FY 1996.
Of the total amounts requested by the Administration, $363 million
will be sued for VA medical programs. Key aspects of the construction
budget request include:
$74.7 million for replacement and modernization;
$58.7 million for outpatient improvements:
$52.9 million for patient environment;
$53.2 million dedicated to the national cemetery program
system;
$11.5 million for VA regional office programs; and
$9 million for nursing home care.
The construction budget request includes funds for a new medical
center and nursing home in Brevard County, Florida and a replacement
medical center for Travis, California.
VA legislative initiatives
The Administration's budget request proposes to make permanent
several 1993 Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA) provisions, most
of which would expire in 1998. Those and other cost-saving legislative
items proposed in the budget would:
Provide a 2.8% increase in disability compensation and
Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), effective December
1, 1996.
Permanently round down disability compensation and DIC COLAs.
Permanently extend monthly pension limitations for the
recipients of Medicaid-covered nursing home care.
Provide permanent authority to verify income data.
Amend Section 1151 of title 38 United States Code by limiting
compensation benefits for additional disability or death
sustained in receiving VA medical care to two situations: where
VA was at fault in furnishing the care, or where a not
reasonably foreseeable event occurred. This amendment would
legislatively reverse the Supreme Court decision in Gardner v.
Brown.
Amend Chapter 31 of title 38, U.S.C., to require a veteran's
service-connected disability materially contributes to an
employment handicap in order for the veteran to establish
entitlement to a rehabilitation program under Chapter 31,
thereby legislative overturning the Court of Veterans Appeals
decision in Davenport v. Brown.
Permanently extend provisions in current law, due to expire
on September 30, 1998 that:
allows collection of a 3% fee for reuse of VA Loan
Guaranty with less than a 5% down payment;
allows inclusion in the ``net value'' calculation
that amount of expected losses on resale or foreclosed
properties with VA guaranteed loans;
requires payment of a 0.75% funding fee on loans
refinanced to obtain a lower interest rate;
authorizes collections from insurance companies for
certain health care provided by VA;
authorizes income verification, for medical care
purposes, through the Internal Revenue Service and
Social Security Administration; and
authorizes the recovery of pharmacy and other
copayments.
Provide a ``gainsharing'' provision whereby VA medical
facilities would be allowed to retain a portion of the money VA
collects from third parties--insurance carriers, copayments and
other receipts--to further expand and improve the quality of
health care VA delivers. Currently, all recoveries in excess of
administrative expenses are returned to the Treasury. Under the
``gainsharing'' provision, once VA exceeds the goal established
in legislation, additional collections will be shared--VA
retains 25% of collections from Category A veterans and 100%
from Category C veterans. This will result in an additional
$3.439 million in FY 1997.
Total savings from OBRA extenders and other legislative initiatives
will be $194.6 million in FY 1997 for a total seven-year savings of
$7.377 billion.
va fiscal year 1997 appropriations--h.r. 3666
On June 26, 1996, the House of Representatives approved the Fiscal
Year 1997 VA Appropriations bill (H.R. 3666). This measure will now go
to the Senate for their consideration.
During the House debate on H.R. 3666, Congressmen Gerald Solomon
(R-NY), Bob Stump (R-AZ) and G.V. ``Sonny'' Montgomery (D-MS) offered
an amendment to increase spending on VA medical care by $40 million and
increased funding for the Veterans Benefits Administration by $17
million. Their amendment was approved by voice vote.
Also, an amendment offered by Representative Todd Tiahrt (R-KS)
added an additional $40 million to VA, $20 million for health care and
$20 million for research from the funding for AmeriCorps national
service program. This also passed by voice vote.
An amendment offered by Representative W.G. ``Bill'' Hefner (D-NC)
removed the travel restriction placed on Secretary Brown. This
amendment passed by voice vote too.
Finally, Congressman Bernard Sanders (I-VT) offered an amendment to
increase funding for the Court of Veterans Appeals by $1.4 million.
This amendment passed by a vote of 358 to 55.
Major provisions of H.R. 3666 as compared to the President's budget
request are:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
House passed (H.R.
President's request 3666)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Medical care.................................................. 17,008,000,000 17,008,000,000
Construction, major........................................... 250,000,000 245,000,000
Construction, minor........................................... 189,000,000 160,000,000
VBA........................................................... 643,000,000 645,000,000
General....................................................... 201,000,000 196,000,000
Administration credit reform.................................. 143,000,000 140,000,000
National Cemetery System...................................... 77,000,000 77,000,000
All Other..................................................... 391,000,000 416,000,000
Total discretionary programs............................ 18,901,000,000 18,946,000,000
Total entitlements...................................... 18,937,000,000 19,937,000,000
Total appropriations.......................................... 38,838,000,000 38,883,000,000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
national defense authorization act for fy 1997--s. 1745
The Senate Committee on Armed Services has marked up its version of
the FY 1997 Defense Authorization Act. Those items in the bill that
could impact on VA are highlighted below.
No funds are authorized for cooperative VA/DoD research.
It directs DoD to establish a uniformed policy regarding
retention of active duty members who are permanently not
assignable worldwide for medical reasons. This would include
those who have tested positive for the HIV virus.
It would delete several missing persons authorities enacted
in the FY 1996 Defense Authorization Act. The bill would retain
those provisions that pertain to unaccounted-for military
personnel whose original status was prisoner of war or missing
in action and not those classified as killed in action/body not
recovered.
The bill language authorizes the President to award the Medal
of Honor to seven African-American soldiers who served during
World War II.
The bill language would provide a survivor annuity to
surviving spouses of members of the uniformed services who died
before March 21, 1940. Any such annuity would be reduced by the
amount of DIC that the surviving spouse receives.
It would requires DoD to provide a uniform software package
for use by providers of health care under the TRICARE program
and by military treatment facilities.
The bill language would enhance the third-party collection
program of CHAMPUS to include collections from workers'
compensation programs.
It would designate the Nellis Federal Hospital, Las Vegas,
Nevada, as the Michael O'Callaghan Federal Hospital.
Report language recommends the establishment of a Center for
Prisoner of War Studies under the auspices of the Uniformed
Services University of the Health Sciences.
fy 1997 budget--department of labor's veterans employment and training
service
After a review of the President's proposed FY 1997 budget for the
Department of Labor's (DOL's) Veterans Employment and Training Service,
we must ask ourselves--``Is the glass half empty or half full?''
Two major concerns are the National Veterans Training Institute
(NVTI) and the Homeless Veterans Reintegration Project (HVRP), both of
which are zeroed out in FY 1997.
The President's Fiscal Year 1997 budget request would increase the
number of Disabled Veterans Outreach Programs (DVOP) specialists and
Local Veterans' Employment Representatives (LVERs) over FY 1996
employment levels. The budget request for FY 97 would fund 1,598
positions, an increase of 62 from the current level. However, in Fiscal
Year 1995, there were 1,646 positions.
Section 4104, title 38 U.S.C., states that DoL shall provide enough
money to fund 1,999 DVOP positions. While the FY 1997 budget request
would fund more positions than currently funded, it still falls far
short of the Congressional mandate.
The President's request in FY 1997 for LVERs is sufficient to staff
1,397 positions. There are 1,336 LVERs currently employed. In FY 1995,
there were 1,431 LVERs.
However, Section 4103(a), title 38 U.S.C., requires that the DoL
shall provide funds for 1,600 full-time LVER positions. The FY 1997
budget request falls short by 203 positions.
The funding request for Title IV-C of the Job Training Partnership
Act (JTPA) is $7.3 million. This program is designed to fund local
employment and training initiatives for veterans.
The President has requested $2.8 million for transition services
under the Transition Assistance Program (TAP). The FY 1996
appropriations are $2 million.
clear and unmistakable error--h.r. 1483
This measure would allow veterans who have a claim for clear and
unmistakable error in a prior, final decision of the Board of Veterans'
Appeals (Board) to reopen their cases and have their appeals decided on
the merit of the issue of clear and unmistakable error. Currently, the
Board has the authority to ``reconsider'' decisions; however, this
authority is totally discretionary, and the Board determination, either
to deny the veteran's motion for reconsideration or the denial on the
merits of the veteran's claim, is not appealable to the Court of
Veterans Appeals (Court) in those cases involving a final Board
decision. This bill would require the Board to render written decisions
on all claims alleging clear and unmistakable error and would allow the
veteran to appeal that determination to the Court.
This legislation is extremely important because it allows those
veterans who have been wrongfully denied benefits to have their claims
properly considered by the Board and have adverse determinations
reviewed by the Court of Veterans Appeals.
On April 17, 1996, the House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on
Compensation, Pension, Insurance, and Memorial Affairs marked up H.R.
1483. It passed unanimously by voice vote. On May 8, 1996, the full
Veterans' Affairs Committee marked up H.R. 1483 and the full House
passed it on May 21.
We are currently working with Members of the Senate to introduce a
companion bill. Two years ago a similar measure stalled in the Senate
and the measure died at the end of that Congress. We are hopeful that
we can move this legislation through the Senate this year.
health care eligibility reform
On September 28, 1995, the House Veterans' Affairs Committee
approved a VA health care eligibility reform provision allowing VA,
within available appropriations, to furnish a full range of medical
services, including preventive health care, to eligible veterans via an
enrollment/registration system. While the number of veterans able to
enroll would be limited by available funding, a priority system for
enrollment is mandated with the highest priority going to veterans 30
percent or more disabled due to service-connected disability and the
next priority covering 10 percent and 20 percent service-connected
veterans and former POWs. A grandfather clause would preclude veterans
from having their benefits reduced. Veterans exposed to environmental
hazards such as Agent Orange would retain their treatment eligibility.
This provision was included in the balanced budget bill that was later
vetoed by the President. Its provisions were then reintroduced as H.R.
3118, discussed below.
H.R. 3118
This measure, introduced by Representative Bob Stump, Chairman,
House Veterans' Affairs Committee for himself, Representatives
``Sonny'' Montgomery, Tim Hutchinson, and Chet Edwards, would reform
eligibility for health care provided by the VA. H.R. 3118 would provide
hospital care and medical services to any veteran with a compensable
service-connected disability, former prisoners of war, those veterans
exposed to a toxic substance, radiation, or environmental hazards, and
any veteran unable to defray the expenses of necessary care, i.e., low-
income veterans. It would require the Secretary to establish and
operate a system of annual patient enrollment based on the following
priorities:
1. Veterans with service-connected disabilities rated 30% or
greater;
2. Veterans who are former POWs and veterans with compensable
service-connected disabilities rated less than 30%;
3. Veterans in receipt of increased pension based on need of
regular aid and attendance or by reason of being permanently
housebound and other veterans who are catastrophically
disabled;
4. Veterans unable to defray the expenses of necessary care;
and
5. All other veterans eligible for hospital care, medical
services, and nursing home care under Sec. 1710(a)(1) of title
38.
While H.R. 3118 does not contain all of the provisions of health
care eligibility reform contained in S. 1563 and H.R. 3119, it is a
good ``first step.'' Therefore, the DAV supports H.R. 3118.
S. 1563
On February 7, 1996, Senators Alan Simpson, Chairman, Senate
Veterans' Affairs Committee, and John ``Jay'' Rockefeller, Ranking
Minority Member, Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee, introduced
legislation at the request of the DAV, AMVETS, PVA, and VFW. This
measure includes our collective views regarding VA health care
eligibility reform as contained in the Independent Budget. This bill
would authorize the VA to provide a full continuum of care for Category
A veterans, provide adequate funding through a combination of
appropriations, third-party collections, and cost-sharing by certain
higher income, non-service-connected veterans choosing to use the
system.
Specifically, this measure would allow the VA Secretary to furnish,
on an ambulatory or outpatient basis, such medical services as the
Secretary determines are needed to any eligible veteran. Special rules
regarding such ambulatory outpatient services would also apply to
veterans exposed to ionizing radiation, Agent Orange, or toxic
substances or environmental hazards during service in the Persian Gulf
War.
Another important feature of this legislation is the medical care
cost recovery provision, which would allow the VA to use a portion of
the unobligated balance remaining in the Medical Care Cost Recovery
Fund. The amounts available in this fund will be derived from the VA's
reimbursement from third-party insurers for the cost of care provided
to veterans for non-service-connected disabilities. These funds would
be available to the Secretary for payment of the costs of providing
hospital care and medical services and would be available without
fiscal year limitations. The bill also would make VA health care
facilities eligible to participate as a provider of services to
Medicare eligible veterans, enabling the VA to receive reimbursement
from Medicare for the cost of care provided.
Further, the VA's capacity to provide specialized treatment and
rehabilitation needs to disabled veterans will be maintained. The
Secretary would also have the authority to furnish primary health care
services or preventive health care service at non-VA facilities to
veterans located more than 50 miles or one hour traveling time from VA
facilities.
H.R. 3119
This measure, introduced by Representative ``Sonny'' Montgomery,
would revise and improve the eligibility for medical care and services
under title 38, United States Code. This is a companion bill to S. 1563
and is, therefore, supported by DAV.
If the VA is to remain a viable health care provider for sick and
disabled veterans, the VA must be able to provide quality and timely
health care services in a cost-effective and efficient manner. These
measures, S. 1563 and H.R. 3119, will help to ensure that the VA can
continue its mission to provide adequate health care and medical
services to America's veterans.
H.R. 3117
This measure, introduced by Representative ``Sonny'' Montgomery is
intended to enable the VA to receive Medicare payments for operating
health plans that would serve Medicare-eligible, nonservice-connected
veterans who cannot now gain access to VA health care. H.R. 3117
provides for Medicare payments to VA for higher-income, non service-
connected, Medicare-eligible veterans who are largely shut out of the
VA system today, provided VA enrolls such veterans in VA managed-care
plans.
concurrent receipt legislation--h.r. 65 and h.r. 303
There measures would provide for the concurrent receipt of military
longevity retired pay and VA disability compensation. Under present
law, a military retiree must offset his or her military longevity
retired pay by the amount of VA disability compensation received. In
essence, the military retiree, who served 20 or more years and who
earned retired pay under criteria totally different than the criteria
for disability compensation, must finance their disability compensation
from their retired pay. Since the criteria for earning retired
longevity pay and VA disability compensation are completely distinct
from each other, it is inherently unfair that these veterans cannot
receive military longevity retired pay and VA disability compensation
concurrently.
The DAV has a long-standing resolution supporting the concurrent
receipt of military longevity retired pay and VA disability
compensation. Your support of this legislation is greatly appreciated.
Representative Michael Bilirakis (R-FL) recently attempted to
introduce two amendments to the Defense Authorization bill for FY 1997
that would provide for the concurrent receipt of military longevity
retired pay and VA disability compensation for certain severely
disabled veterans. Unfortunately, the House Rules Committee would not
permit these amendments to be introduced at that time. According to
Representative Bilirakis' office, he is currently searching for another
bill to attach these amendments to or he will attempt to introduce them
as free standing bills.
servicemen's group life insurance (sgli) and veterans' group life
insurance (vgli)--h.r. 2843
This bill's major provisions allow the Secretary to terminate
coverage when premiums are not paid within 60 days; set the automatic
coverage at $200,000; change the name of the program to Service
members' Group Life Insurance; merge the Retired Reserve Service
Members' Group Life Insurance Program and automatically convert retired
reservists' policies to VGLI; and liberalize the rules concerning
renewal and conversion to commercial policies.
This measure was passed by the House on May 21, 1996, and is
currently under consideration in the Senate. Most of these provisions
are contained in S. 996 which is pending in the Senate.
h.r. 3674
This legislation would increase the one-time maximum automobile
allowance from $5,500 to $6,500; provide up to two years of accrued
benefits to survivors of veterans who died while their cases were being
adjudicated; pay disability compensation benefits through the day of
death of the veteran; authorize pro bono legal assistance program for
financially needy veterans in proceedings before COVA; clarify the
causal relationship required between a veteran's service-connected
disability and employment handicap for purposes of determining
eligibility for training and rehabilitation assistance; and increase
the Montgomery GI bill $5.00 per month.
This measure was passed by the House Veterans' Affairs Committee on
June 20, 1996.
h.r. 3673
This legislation would add bronchiolo-aveolar carcinoma to the list
of illnesses presumed to be service-connected for veterans exposed to
ionizing radiation; add a presumption of permanent and total disability
for veterans over 65 years of age if they reside in a nursing home;
allow the Veterans Benefits Administration under a pilot program to
contract with private physicians for compensation and pension physical
examinations; eliminate VA's clothing allowance for incarcerated
veterans; authorize the American Battle Monuments Commission to assume
responsibility for some overseas memorials and accept private funds for
their maintenance; extend the time for submission of the final report
from the Veterans' Claims Adjudication Commission to December 31, 1996,
and provide an additional $150,000 in funding; allow opportunity to
pursue educational programs through open circuit TV; permit payment of
education benefits for flight training to certain veterans; allow
veterans training under cooperative training programs to be paid full-
time educational benefits; extend the authority of VA, for an
additional year, to guarantee the real estate mortgage investment
conduits used to market vender loans; extend the Homeless Veterans
Reintegration Project through FY 1999 and authorize appropriations in
the amount of $10 million; and expand eligibility for burial benefits
to include certain veterans who die in state nursing homes.
This measure was favorably reported out of the House Veterans'
Affairs Committee on June 20, 1996.
tax-exempt status for veterans' benefits--s. 297 and h.r. 972
These measures would clarify that VA benefits are tax-exempt. As
you may recall, this legislation was passed during the 102nd Congress,
but the measure was vetoed by President Bush because of other
provisions contained in the bill. DAV continues to pursue the enactment
of this measure and requests your support of our efforts in this
regard.
the veterans' housing and employment programs and employment rights
benefits act of 1995--h.r. 2289
On December 13, 1995, the House, by voice vote, passed H.R. 2289.
This measure would:
Extend several VA home loan and housing programs including
negotiated interest rates, energy efficient mortgages, and
housing assistance for homeless veterans;
Reduce VA reporting requirements;
Streamline the operations of the veterans' employment and
training service; and
Clarify many of the provisions of the Uniformed Services
Employment and Reemployment Rights Act.
This measure is pending action in the Senate and was one of the
measures discussed at the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee hearing on
May 23.
va construction
H.R. 2814
The House Veterans' Affairs Committee approved by voice vote H.R.
2814. This measure would have authorized 13 major medical construction
projects for fiscal year 1996. The bill authorized $279 million in new
construction spending, including three projects totaling $78 million
that were funded under the fiscal year 1996 VA appropriations bill that
was vetoed by the President. This bill did not come up for a vote by
the full House. Many of the provisions of H.R. 2814 were incorporated
in H.R. 3376.
H.R. 3376
On June 4, 1996, the House of Representative, by voice vote, passed
H.R. 3376 that would authorize $434 million for construction at 27 VA
hospitals around the country. The measure would also name the VA
hospital in Jacksonville, Mississippi after retiring Representative
G.V. ``Sonny'' Montgomery (D-MS), another facility in Johnson City,
Tennessee after retiring Representative James H. Quillen (R-TN), and a
third facility in Aspinwall, Pennsylvania will be named after former
Senator John Heinz (R- PA).
Other provisions of the bill include:
$13.5 million for an ambulatory care facility in Brockton,
Massachusetts;
$25 million for outpatient improvements in Shreveport,
Louisiana;
$19.9 million for an ambulatory care project in Dallas,
Texas;
$21.1 million for an ambulatory care project in Lyons, New
Jersey;
$12.7 million for an ambulatory care project in Tomah,
Wisconsin;
$9.5 million for environmental improvements for renovation of
nursing units at Lebanon, Pennsylvania;
$11.5 million for environmental improvements at Marion,
Illinois;
$28.2 million for environmental improvements at VA Medical
Center in Atlanta, Georgia;
$22.9 million for environmental improvements at VA Medical
Center psychiatric building in Battle Creek, Michigan;
$7.7 million for environmental improvements at VA Medical
Center in Omaha, Nebraska;
$17.4 million for environmental improvements at VA Medical
Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania;
$26 million for environmental improvements at VA Medical
Center in Waco, Texas;
$15.1 million for renovation of psychiatric wards at Perry
Point, Maryland;
$17.3 million for replacement of three psychiatric buildings
at Marion, Indiana;
$17.2 million for environmental enhancements at Salisbury,
North Carolina;
The Secretary may also carry out seismic corrections at the
following:
VA Medical Center in Palo Alto, California in the
amount of $36 million;
VA Medical Center in Long Beach, California in the
amount of $20.2 million;
VA Medical Center in San Francisco, California in the
amount of $26 million.
$28.8 million for an ambulatory care unit in Asheville, North
Carolina;
$9.8 million for an ambulatory care unit in Temple, Texas;
$35.5 million for an ambulatory care unit in Tucson, Arizona;
and
The Secretary may also enter into leases for medical facilities at
the following:
Satellite outpatient clinic in Allentown, Pennsylvania;
Satellite outpatient clinic in Beaumont, Texas;
Satellite outpatient clinic in Boston, Massachusetts;
Parking facility in Cleveland, Ohio;
Satellite outpatient clinic and VBA field office in San
Antonio, Texas; and
Satellite outpatient clinic in Toledo, Ohio.
Finally, the Secretary is required to submit a report on the health
care needs of veterans in east central Florida. He may also obligate
funds for the design work for the conversion of the former Orlando
Naval Training Center Hospital in Orlando, Florida. The Secretary is
also required to submit a report, no later than January 31 of each
year, on the long-range health planning of the VA.
reconciliation
Initially, the FY 1996 reconciliation target for the Department of
Veterans Affairs was $6.4 billion over a seven-year period.
Essentially, this deficit reduction target was met by extending certain
provisions in the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1993, including
recovery from health insurers for nonservice-connected health care,
prescription copayments, increased home loan fees and foreclosure
procedures, and the rounding down of COLAs. Additionally, both the
House and Senate agreed to repeal the provisions of the Gardner
decision which allowed a veteran to prevail on an 1151 claim (the
equivalent of medical malpractice) without a showing that the VA was at
fault in causing the additional disability. However, the Senate and
House were unable to agree on provisions relating to the Montgomery
G.I. Bill. The House wanted to increase the prescription copayment fee
to $3, while the Senate wants to limit to one-half the cost-of-living
allowance adjustment for the G.I. Bill and increase the contribution
amount of the military member.
On November 1, 1995, the Veterans' Affairs Committee was notified
that their reconciliation target was increased to $6.7 billion over the
next seven years. No determination was made as to where the additional
$300 million dollar cuts would come from.
No action was taken on reocnciliation during FY 1996 as it was
vetoed by the President and Congress was unable to override the veto or
make sufficient changes to the bill to allow for its passage.
The Fiscal Year 1997 VA budget adopted by Congress on June 7, 1996
sets the savings (reconciliation) required by VA over the next six
years at $5.1 billion. This is $1.3 billion below last year's
recommendation.
veterans integrated service networks (visns)
The Veterans' Health Administration (VHA) is progressing in efforts
to achieve a major overhaul of how VA delivers health care in the
future. The new field elements of VHA are referred to as Veterans
Integrated Service Networks (VISNs).
The goal of VISNs is simply to improve veterans' access to VA
health care services and provide an increased degree of quality,
timeliness and efficiency of care provided to veterans.
There will be 22 VISNs, each consisting of between 5 and 12 medical
centers. Each VISN will have an overall director whose job will be to
ensure the integration and coordination of all VA health care services
so that the maximum number of veterans may be provided quality medical
care.
Recently, Senator Simpson introduced, at the request of the VA, S.
1748, which would facilitate the reorganization of the headquarters of
the Veterans' Health Administration (VHA) by authorizing a VHA
reorganization notwithstanding the notice and wait provisions of
section 510 of title 38, United States Code. The draft bill also
proposes the elimination of the statutory requirement that VHA have a
centralized medical service, dental service, podiatric service,
optometric service, and nursing service, and would eliminate the
requirement that the associate deputy Undersecretary for Health be a
doctor of medicine.
agent orange, ionizing radiation, environmental hazards, and other
measures--h.r. 3463
This bill was favorably reported out of Committee and would extend
priority health care for veterans exposed to Agent Orange and Persian
Gulf veterans to December 31, 1998; make permanent priority health care
for radiation-exposed veterans; create a committee on care of severely
chronically mentally ill veterans and centers for mental illness
research, education, and clinical activities; authorize the VA to
appropriate from its research funds moneys to support research,
education and training activities of centers in the amount of $3.13
million for FY 1998 and $6.25 million for FY 1999-2001; extend priority
health care for veterans who served in Israel or Turkey during the
Persian Gulf War; and improve health care for women veterans.
Agent Orange
On May 28, 1996, President Clinton announced that Vietnam veterans
disabled by prostate cancer or acute and subacute peripheral neuropathy
will be entitled to disability compensation based on their presumed
exposure to Agent Orange. The President also announced that the VA will
be proposing legislation that would provide appropriate remedy for
children of Vietnam veterans exposed to Agent Orange who suffer from a
birth defect of the spine called spina bifida.
In March, the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) issued a report
indicating that NAS found that there is new limited or suggestive
evidence to show an association with prostate cancer, acute and
subacute peripheral neuropathy (a neurological disorder) in Vietnam
veterans, and spina bifida (a congenital abnormality) in their
children.
The VA will be developing a regulation as quickly as possible so
that it can begin compensating Vietnam veterans currently disabled from
acute and subacute peripheral neuropathy, if manifested within one year
of herbicide exposure, and those with prostate cancer.
VA estimates that potentially up to 3,000 children of Vietnam
veterans may be afflicted with spina bifida. It is unclear how the VA
will handle this situation.
Ionizing Radiation
The Subcommittee on Compensation, Pension, Insurance, and Memorial
Affairs held an oversight hearing on April 30, 1996, to discuss the
controversy surrounding access to VA medical treatment and VA
disability compensation for veterans exposed to ionizing radiation. We
noted in our testimony that, due to the belief of many atomic veterans
that they are not receiving adequate health care for their illnesses
due to radiation exposure, Congressional oversight in the area of
access to health care was needed. Additionally, we indicated that
Atomic veterans also felt that the physicians whom they saw for care
and treatment did not have sufficient expertise in the harmful effects
and residuals caused by exposure to ionizing radiation.
It was the DAV's position that, as far as disability compensation
was concerned, remedial legislation passed in the 1980s was a total
failure. DAV pointed out that very few veterans or their survivors
benefited from these laws. DAV called upon Congress to add all
``radiogenic diseases'' and any other illnesses, diseases, or
disability for which others are compensated for by the federal
government as a result of exposure to ionizing radiation to the list of
diseases presumed to be service-connected. America's Atomic veterans
should receive a rebuttable presumption for all such diseases,
illnesses, or disabilities.
Persian Gulf War Veterans
Congress continues to hold oversight hearings on the controversy
surrounding ``Persian Gulf Syndrome.'' Reportedly, nine government
agencies and departments are researching this issue. To date, nothing
has been resolved, and the brave men and women who served in the
Persian Gulf continue to suffer from unexplained ailments.
In May 1996, the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee, at the request
of Senator Jay Rockefeller, Ranking Minority Member of the Committee,
held a Gulf War Illnesses ``briefing.'' Attending the briefing to
answer questions regarding the government's handling of Persian Gulf
veterans' complaints were officials from the Department of Defense and
Department of Veterans Affairs. Also attending the briefing was a
private physician and a professor of pharmacology at Duke University
who has conducted research on the possible effects of the nerve gas
pills, insect repellents, and insecticides given to U.S. military
personnel during the Persian Gulf War.
Senator Rockefeller admonished the Department of Defense (DoD) for
their handling of the issue of Persian Gulf illnesses. Senator
Rockefeller also criticized DoD for its handling of other issues over
the years beginning with Mustard Gas during World War I, ionizing
radiation during and after World War II, and Agent Orange during the
Vietnam War. He stated that this demonstrated a ``track record'' in
DoD's failure to acknowledge that problems existed with these various
issues. Senator Rockefeller also refused to accept statements made by
both VA and DoD that the symptoms experienced by Persian Gulf veterans
were no different than those symptoms experienced by the general
public. Both DoD and VA reported that, while no single etiology could
be found for the illnesses suffered by Persian Gulf veterans, research
was continuing. It was Senator Rockefeller's belief that our government
was not moving quickly enough on this issue. It was also his belief
that all resources of our government should be directed to finding
answers to these puzzling illnesses affecting Persian Gulf veterans.
On the other hand, Senator Simpson indicated that he was not
willing to do anything at this time on this issue, since nine
departments and agencies of our government were studying and
researching this issue.
s. 995
S. 995 would restrict payment of clothing allowance, in the case of
incarcerated veterans, otherwise payable to eligible veterans. This
measure would also create a presumption of permanent and total
disability for pension payments for veterans over age 65 who are
patients in a nursing home.
s. 281
This measure proposes to change the date of the beginning of the
Vietnam Era for purposes of VA benefits from August 5, 1964, to
December 22, 1961.
s. 749
This measure proposes to revise the authority relating to the
Center for Minority Veterans and the Center for Women Veterans and to
extend the termination date of the Advisory Committee on Minority
Veterans from December 31, 1997 to December 31, 1999.
s. 1342
This measure would authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to
make direct loans to refinance loans made to veterans under the Native
American Veteran Housing Loan Pilot Program.
s. 993
This measure, introduced at the request of the VA, would provide
for cost savings in the Home Loan Program for veterans, including the
repeal of the loan debt collection restrictions, section 3726 of title
38; an increase in the manufactured home loan down payment and fee;
extension of the loan fee increase; extension of the fee for multiple
use of loan entitlements; and the extension of the no-bid formula; and
it would limit the cost of living increases for Montgomery GI Bill
benefits.
DAV is concerned that by repealing 38 U.S.C. Sec. 3726, we could be
opening ``Pandora's Box'' in that veterans, who had loans assumed prior
to the change in law affecting loan assumptions, could now be held
liable for those loans. These veterans, through no fault of their own,
would be legally responsible for those defaulted loans. DAV, therefore,
opposes the repeal of Sec. 3726.
This measure would provide savings of approximately $304 million in
FY 1999 and an additional $295 million in FY 2000. The DAV firmly
believes that these savings should be used to correct inequities in the
VA that currently exist in the law. While we are cognizant of the
importance of reducing the deficit, we believe that these funds would
be better put to use within the VA system.
The DAV does not support limiting the cost-of-living adjustment for
Montgomery GI Bill benefits. We see no reason to single out the
Montgomery GI Bill recipients for reduction in their cost-of-living
adjustment. DAV has consistently stated that we would forego a COLA if
all federal programs received similar across-the-board COLA cuts, in a
fair and equitable manner.
s. 994
This measure was introduced at the request of the VA and would
clarify the eligibility of certain minor children for burial in
national cemeteries.
s. 1752
This measure, also introduced at the request of VA, would exempt
full-time registered nurses, physician's assistants and expanded-
function dental auxiliary from restrictions on remunerated outside
professional activities.
s. 1711
Senator Bob Dole introduced S. 1711 on April 29, 1996, the purpose
of which is ``To establish a commission to evaluate the programs of the
federal government that assist members of the armed forces and veterans
in readjusting to civilian life and for other purposes.''
DAV supports the intent of S. 1711 and has made some suggestions to
change some of its provisions so as to better serve veterans.
h.r. 3458
This measure would increase, effective December 1, 1996, the rates
of compensation for veterans with service-connected disabilities and
the rates of dependency and indemnity compensation for the survivors of
certain disabled veterans. The rate of increase would follow Social
Security Administration figures (predicted to be about 2.8%). The
amount will be rounded down to the next lower dollar amount for all
compensation and DIC benefits when the amount is not a whole dollar
amount. This measure passed the full committee on June 20, 1996, and
will be voted on by the full House in the near future. The Senate
Veterans Affairs Committee will be marking up similar legislation on
June 25, 1996.
balanced budget amendment
On June 6, 1996, the Senate again defeated the constitutional
amendment to balance the budget. The vote was 64-35--two votes short of
the needed two-thirds vote.
* * * * * * *
This completes the annual report of the National Legislative
Department
As evidenced by this report, the past year has been anything but
routine. We've experienced a protracted federal budget battle,
government shutdowns, and continued threats that the worst is yet to
come for veterans, their dependents and survivors who depend upon the
VA for benefits and services. United we can weather this ``storm.'' In
the past, the Legislative Department has relied heavily upon the
grassroots efforts of DAV and DAVA members and families and each time
you have answered the call. I would again like to acknowledge the
support of all those associated with DAV legislative grassroots
actions. The men and women of the DAV and DAVA have been instrumental
in making DAV's position known to our elected officials. It is this
unhesitant and unselfish support and involvement of the membership of
this great organization that continues our leadership role in veterans'
affairs. Always be mindful of the fact that the American public
continues to support veterans and programs and services designed to
provide for the well being of the defenders of America's freedoms. Make
sure that you continue to remind our elected representatives in
Congress and the President of this important fact.
[Report closed June 27, 1996.]
Commander McMasters. At this time, I'll call on Mr. Tanner
so we can correct that technical problem we had with the
adoption of the Rules. Mike 3. Will you please restate your
motion to adopt the Convention Rules as amended.
Mr. James H. Tanner. Okay. I made the original motion to
adopt the Rules. I'd like to adopt the Rules as amended. James
Tanner, Joseph R. Harold Chapter 10, Massachusetts.
Commander McMasters. Do we have support for that? Mike 1.
Mr. Salvatore Lo Sauro. Sal Lo Sauro, Chapter 15, New
Jersey, seconds.
Commander McMasters. Thank you. We have the motion and
support to adopt the Rules as amended. Are you ready for the
question? Ready for the question? All in favor, signify by Aye;
opposed. That's carried.
At this time, I'd like to call on Commander Bob
Quattlebaum, Department of Louisiana, and Mr. Ed Figueron,
Convention Committee member for a presentation.
Mr. Robert Quattlebaum. Commander McMasters, you should
know by now, beware of things in plain brown paper, and you're
about to receive it. On behalf of the Department of Louisiana
and its members, we would like for you to accept this small
gift that was furnished by Eddy's Painting for putting up with
us for the last year and the help you gave us during the year.
Thank you.
[Applause]. [Cries of, ``Can't hear you.'']
Mr. Quattlebaum. I don't know what I said, so I can't
repeat it.
Commander McMasters. Thank you, Bob, very much. It's a nice
swamp scene painted over the State of Louisiana for those of
you that can't see it.
At this time, I'm going to call on the General Resolutions
and Membership Committee chairman, John McCullough for the
report.
Mr. John F. McCullough. Commander McMasters, delegates: The
National Convention Committee on General Resolutions and
Membership was called to order at its first business session on
July 29th, 1996 by the committee advisors, Rick Surratt and
Jerry Steelman. The first order of business was to elect a
chairman of the convention committee. John McCullough was
nominated for chairman. There being no further nominations,
nominations were closed, and John McCullough was selected
chairman.
The next order of business was the nomination and election
of a secretary. Kenneth Grunwald was nominated and elected as
the secretary of the committee.
The committee then proceeded to review the resolutions
submitted, and I will now report to you the resolutions
recommended for adoption by this National Convention. For the
purpose of time-saving, I will read only the number and the
RESOLVED portions of the resolutions.
Resolution Number 80. Seeking the immediate release of any
Americans who may still be held captive following World War II,
the Korean War, the Vietnam War and return of the remains of
any Americans who died during these wars.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED the Disabled American Veterans
Chapter 7, Omaha Beach, urges the U.S. Government to ensure
that the POW/MIA issue be considered as one of America's
highest priorities, accelerating efforts to obtain the release
of any American who still may be held captive and obtain the
fullest possible accounting of those still missing, and the
repatriation of the remains of those who died while serving our
nation; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clinton Administration is
urged to follow up at the policy level to ensure that the
pledges made by the Socialist Republic of Vietnam are
fulfilled, and that in the absence of fulfillment of these
pledges, the Disabled American Veterans is opposed to further
economic and political steps to improve bilateral relations
between the United States and the Socialist Republic of
Vietnam; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans
call on Congress to oppose further steps on this same issue.
Resolution Number 248. Opposing any legislation to erode the
provisions of Missing Service Personnel Act of 1996.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans
in National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana,
July 28 through August 1st, 1996, oppose legislation to amend
the procedures for determining the whereabouts and status of
missing persons ensuring access to government information
concerning the whereabouts and status of missing military
personnel and safeguarding the rights of those missing
personnel and their family members as contained in the Missing
Service Personnel Act of 1996. Resolution Number 249.
Supporting strong national defense.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans
in National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana,
July 28th through August 1st, 1996, go on record urging
Congress to provide adequate funds for the defense of our
nation, both at home and abroad.
Resolution Number 69. Restore meaningful memorial service to
Veterans' Day.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the DAV Department of
Connecticut meeting in the 75th Annual Convention, June 7th
through 9th, 1996, go on record urging all veterans
organizations to unite together and make this brief period on
Veterans' Day a special and symbolic expression of our
gratitude. We should also ask our town leaders and state
officials to restore that minute of silence and yes, perhaps,
the ringing of church bells could bring back the old but most
fitting honor. With the acceptance of said resolution, the
convention shall then instruct DAV Department of Connecticut
adjutant to forward resolution for placement on the agenda for
General Resolutions, National Security, Americanism and
Membership Committee at the National Convention July 27th
through August 1st, 1996 in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Resolution Number 75, as amended by committee. Resolution to
support a POW/MIA commemorative stamp.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Disabled American
Veterans Department of Florida, Disabled American Veterans,
being regularly convened at state convention and meeting on the
8th day of June in the Year of Our Lord, 1996, at the Hilton
Hotel in Altamonte Springs, Florida, do hereby implore the
Postmaster General of the United States of America to continue
the issuing of a commemorative stamp so that all those who
purchase postage stamps will never have the opportunity to
forget our POW/MIAs;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we, the Department of Florida
Disabled American Veterans, do also implore the national
leadership of the Disabled American Veterans to endorse this
resolution and likewise petition the Postmaster General of the
United States.
Resolution Number 252. Condemnation of the public desecration of
the flag of the United States.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans
in National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana,
July 28th through August 1st, 1996, shall go on record as
condemning any individual or group who shall at any time
publicly and wilfully desecrate the flag of the United States.
Resolution Number 250. In support of the appointment of member of
the Veterans Bar as associate judge of the United States Court of
Appeals.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans
in National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana,
July 28th through August 1st, 1996, urge President Clinton to
nominate the next judge of the Court of Veterans Appeals from
among those qualified and distinguished groups of veteran
practitioners.
Resolution Number 251. To encourage all disabled veterans to become
registered voters.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans
in National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana,
July 28th through August 1st, 1996, encourage 100 percent of
our members to become registered to vote, and thereby
strengthen our organization's ability to preserve and improve
our system of veterans' benefits and services.
The next resolution has no number. It's a committee resolution.
Appreciation to New Orleans Hilton Riverside for the success of the
75th National Convention.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans
in National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana,
July 28th through August 1st, 1996, express its sincere
gratitude to the New Orleans Hilton Riverside and all its
employees for their exceptional assistance in making the
convention a tremendous success.
Another committee resolution. Appreciation to all who are
responsible for the success of the 75th National Convention.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans
in National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana,
July 28th through August 1st, express its sincere appreciation
to all groups and/or agencies whose dedication to our
principles has made our convention successful; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we wish to extend to the citizens
of New Orleans, Louisiana our deepest gratitude for their
personal interest in our great organization; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we wish to extend our
appreciation to all the distinguished guests who participated
in our convention and support the ideals and principles of our
great organization;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we extend our gratitude to the
convention chairman, Paul Benoit, and his entire committee for
providing personalized assistance to our friends and delegates
during our convention stay.
Another committee resolution. Extend appreciation to the VA Medical
Center in New Orleans, Louisiana, for the success of the 75th National
Convention.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans
in National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana,
July 28th through August 1st, 1996, express its sincere
appreciation to the VA Medical Center in New Orleans,
Louisiana, whose dedication to the care and treatment of the
delegates to this 75th National Convention has made our
convention a successful one.
The following is a committee resolution, which I will read in its
entirety. Appreciation to National Commander McMasters.
Whereas, Thomas A. McMasters, III has devoted himself to the
cause of our nation's service-connected wartime disabled
veterans and their families; and
Whereas, he has served the Disabled American Veterans in an
exemplary fashion, rising to our organization's highest elected
office, national commander; and
Whereas, during his tenure as national commander, public
support for veterans' programs has remained strong; and
Whereas, under his leadership, DAV maintained a strength of
more than one million members; and
Whereas, Commander McMasters has continued our commitment to
service with continued recruitment and training new national
service officers and with an updated, improved and enhanced
structure and continued training for national service officers;
and
Whereas, under his guidance, DAV has undertaken a new
initiative to strengthen its management through management and
leadership training for current and potential managers; and
Whereas, under his guidance, DAV has remained a vanguard in
the constant fight to protect and maintain veterans' earned
benefits and defeat of legislation which would have terminated
compensation to certain mentally incompetent veterans; and
Whereas, during his term, DAV donated 141 vans to the DAV
Transportation Network and secured a gift of 11 additional vans
from the Ford Motor Company to transport veterans to and from
VA medical facilities for the much-needed health care; and
Whereas, Commander McMasters traveled both home and abroad
countless miles to advance the cause of disabled veterans; and
Whereas, Commander McMasters obtained respect and admiration
throughout the veterans' community as an effective spokesman
for the nation's service-connected wartime disabled veterans
and their families;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American
Veterans in National Convention assembled in New Orleans,
Louisiana, July 28th through August 1st, recognizes the very
special contributions of Thomas A. McMasters, III as DAV's
national commander----
[Applause.]
One moment, please. I'm not finished. Please let me finish. I know
I'm slow, but let me finish.
[continuing], and expresses our membership's appreciation to
him and his invaluable services to the organization and
disabled veterans; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we also extend our sincere
appreciation and thanks to Commander McMaster's wife, Sandra
McMasters, and his entire family for their support and
sacrificies during his year as national commander. Now you can
get noisy. (Applause)
Commander, I would like to thank the advisors to the committee and
the members of the committee for their work during these hours of
deliberation. And I now move for the adoption of the report of the
General Resolutions Committee.
[The above-mentioned resolutions follow.]
RESOLUTION NO. 069--ADMINISTRATIVE
to restore meaningful memorial service to veterans' day
WHEREAS, with the change of name from Armistice Day to Veterans'
Day, meaningful memorial service on November 11th seems to have been
lost, and steps should be taken to restore intent; and
WHEREAS, when November 11th was celebrated as Armistice day, a
solemn remembrance at 11th hour on 11th day of 11th month for all
veterans was observed by citizens with a ``minute of silence'' and
church bells; and
WHEREAS, if we do not continue the tradition of remembering our
departed comrades, future generations will not remember us; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, goes on record urging all veterans' organizations to unite
together to make this brief period on Veterans' Day a special and
symbolic expression of our gratitude and urging that our leaders and
state officials restore that ``minute of silence'' and other fitting
honors such as the ringing of church bells.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 075--LEGISLATIVE
supporting continuation of the pow-mia commemorative stamp
WHEREAS, the United States Postal Service, on May 29, 1995, issued
a commemorative stamp on the face of which appears the statement,
``P.O.W.--M.I.A. NEVER FORGOTTEN''; and
WHEREAS, this stamp will only be issued for one year or until the
current supply is exhausted, whichever occurs first; and
WHEREAS, it is inconsistent with the principle that our prisoners
of war and missing in action should ``never'' be forgotten to issue
this stamp for such a temporary and short period; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, urges the continuing issue of the POW-MIA commemorative stamp
to help assure that our prisoners of war and missing in action are not
forgotten.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 080--LEGISLATIVE
seeking the immediate release of any americans who may still be held
captive following world war ii, the korean war and vietnam war and the
return of the remains of any americans who died during these wars
WHEREAS, the members of the Disabled American Veterans are deeply
concerned for the thousands of American servicemen still unaccounted
for in the aftermath of World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam
War; and
WHEREAS, there are still today more than 78,000 unaccounted for
following World War II, some 8,000 from the Korean War and over 2,100
in Southeast Asia from the Vietnam War who have not been forgotten; and
WHEREAS, numerous efforts by high level American delegations
including members of Congress have visited Southeast Asia in continuing
efforts to solve the mystery of the whereabouts and fate of these brave
men without success; and
WHEREAS, the Socialist Republic of Vietnam made commitments to the
March 1996 Presidential Delegation on POW/MIA to renew and increase
their unilateral, as well as joint efforts to account for America's
POW/MIAs' and
WHEREAS, the brave families of missing Americans continue to live
in uncertainty and anguish regarding their missing sons and husbands;
and
WHEREAS, the Clinton Administration has repeatedly stated that
accounting as fully as possible for all Americans still missing and
unaccounted for from the Vietnam War is the highest priority of U.S.
bilateral relations with the Socialist Republic of Vietnam; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, urges the U.S. government to ensure that the POW/MIA issue be
considered as one of America's highest priorities, accelerating efforts
to obtain the release of any American who still may be held captive and
obtain the fullest possible accounting of those still missing and the
repatriation of the remains of those who died while serving our nation;
AND
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clinton Administration is urged to
follow-up at the policy level to ensure that the pledges made by the
Socialist Republic of Vietnam are fulfilled; and that in the absence of
fulfillment of these pledges, the Disabled American Veterans is opposed
to further economic and political steps to improve bilateral relations
between the United States and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam; AND
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans calls on
Congress to oppose further steps on this same basis.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 248--LEGISLATIVE
opposing any legislation to erode the provisions of the missing service
personnel act of 1996
WHEREAS, there are nearly 100,000 American Servicemen and women
still unaccounted for in the aftermath of World War II, the Korean War,
the Vietnam War and Subsequent military engagements; and
WHEREAS, the members of the Disabled American Veterans are deeply
concerned for those servicemen and women still unaccounted for from
those wars and military engagements and for those who may be classified
as missing-in-action in future wars or military engagements; and
WHEREAS, the families of the missing Americans must live in
uncertainty and anguish regarding the fate of their loved ones; and
WHEREAS, there is a deterioration in the trust and credibility
placed in some of the government officials involved in accounting for
these missing Americans; and
WHEREAS, Congress passed the Missing Service Personnel Act of 1996
to provide guidelines for accounting for missing service personnel and
for establishing procedures and safeguards to ensure that the next-of-
kin of missing service personnel are kept informed; and
WHEREAS, some members of Congress continue to attempt to amend this
new law to strike certain important provisions necessary to ensure a
proper accounting of missing service personnel; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, opposes legislation to amend the procedures for determining
the whereabouts and status of missing persons, ensuring access to
government information concerning the whereabouts and status of missing
military personnel, and safeguarding the rights of these missing
personnel and their family members as contained in the Missing Service
Personnel Act of 1996.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 249--LEGISLATIVE
supporting a strong national defense
WHEREAS, the United States military forces are responsible for the
defense of this Nation and its interest abroad; and
WHEREAS, the United States has recently been called upon to
intervene in various conflicts; and
WHEREAS, a strong national defense led to the defeat of Communism
in Eastern Europe; and
WHEREAS, U.S. interests continue to be challenged throughout the
world, requiring our military forces to be deployed in protection of
world freedom; and
WHEREAS, we can never let our guard down; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, goes on record urging Congress to provide adequate funds for
the defense of our Nation both at home and abroad.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 250--LEGISLATIVE
in support of the appointment of a member of the veterans' bar as
associate judge of the united states court of veterans appeals
WHEREAS, the United States Court of Veterans Appeals (the Court)
was established on November 18, 1988, for the sole purpose of providing
judicial review of decisions on claims for benefits from the Department
of Veterans Affairs (VA) for millions of veterans, their dependents and
survivors and active duty military personnel; and
WHEREAS, litigation before the Court is controlled by the VA,
inasmuch as the VA and the military control the record upon which the
case is decided, VA writes the regulations under which the claim is
adjudicated, VA physicians evaluate the veteran's disability, VA
employs the adjudicators and hearing officers who decide the claim, and
VA convenes the Board of Veterans' Appeals that reviews the original
department decision; and
WHEREAS, when the seven original judges were appointed in 1989 and
1990, no pool of qualified veterans' advocates existed from which
potential judges could be selected, resulting in an original selection
process which was comprised of a former VA General Counsel, a former
Department of Justice official, and representatives from the Department
of Defense, among other former government personnel; and
WHEREAS, the Court's bar has increased to more than 1,200 attorneys
since 1989, with a number of these members specializing in veterans'
law, and who have distinguished themselves in this area of practice and
demonstrated their qualifications to serve on the Court; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, urges President Clinton to nominate the next judge of the
Court of Veterans Appeals from among this qualified and distinguished
group of veterans' practitioners.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 251--LEGISLATIVE
to encourage all disabled veterans to become registered voters
WHEREAS, the Disabled American Veterans served their country during
time of war in order to preserve the rights and privileges of life in
this land of the free; and
WHEREAS, one of the most precious of these rights is the right to
vote; and
WHEREAS, the failure of all disabled veterans to register and vote
will result in diminution of their influence on their elected
representatives, further resulting in a corresponding erosion of their
VA benefits and services; and
WHEREAS, because of their disabilities, disabled veterans have more
difficulty than their nondisabled peers in complying with some of the
stricter requirements in voter registration laws; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, encourage 100 percent of our members to become registered to
vote and thereby strengthen our organization's ability to preserve and
improve our system of veterans' benefits and services.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 252--LEGISLATIVE
condemnation of public desecration of the flag of the united states
WHEREAS, the U.S. Supreme Court, by a 5-4 decision, has ruled that
public desecration of the American Flag, as a form of free speech and
expression, is legal and permissible; and
WHEREAS, the American Flag--``Old Glory''--is our National Ensign,
the proud, courageous and beautiful symbol of our country's precious,
free heritage; and
WHEREAS, this symbol, in the form of our irreplaceable ``Stars and
Stripes,'' has been carried and defended in battle, revered and
cherished by its citizens and viewed as a beacon of hope and
fulfillment by all the world since it was first unfurled at the birth
of our Nation; and
WHEREAS, the Constitutional First Amendment guarantee of freedom of
speech was not intended by our Founding Fathers to enable individuals--
who do enjoy unfettered freedom to express their views, no matter how
abhorrent, in both oral and written form--to publicly and
contemptuously desecrate our beloved flag; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, shall go on record as condemning any individual or group who
shall at any time publicly and willfully desecrate the flag of the
United States.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 276--ADMINISTRATIVE
appreciation to national commander mcmasters
WHEREAS, Thomas A. McMasters, III, has devoted himself to the cause
of our Nation's service-connected wartime disabled veterans and their
families; and
WHEREAS, he has served the Disabled American Veterans in an
exemplary fashion, rising to our organization's highest elected office,
National Commander; and
WHEREAS, during his tenure as National Commander, public support
for veterans' programs has remained strong; and
WHEREAS, under his leadership DAV maintained its strength of more
than one million members; and
WHEREAS, Commander McMasters has continued our commitment to
service, with continued recruitment and training of new National
Service Officers and with an updated, improved, and enhanced Structured
and Continuing Training for National Service Officers; and
WHEREAS, under his guidance, DAV has undertaken a new initiative to
strengthen its management through Management and Leadership Training
for current and potential managers; and
WHEREAS, under his guidance DAV has remained a vanguard in the
constant fight to protect and maintain veterans' earned benefits and
defeated legislation which would have terminated compensation to
certain mentally incompetent service-connected veterans; and
WHEREAS, during his term, DAV donated 141 vans to the DAV
Transportation Network and secured a gift of 11 additional vans from
Ford Motor Company to transport veterans to and from VA medical
facilities for much needed health care; and
WHEREAS, Commander McMasters traveled, both home and abroad,
countless miles to advance the cause of disabled veterans; and
WHEREAS, Commander McMasters obtained respect and admiration
throughout the veterans' community as an effective spokesman for this
Nation's service-connected wartime disabled veterans and their
families; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, recognizes the very special contributions of Thomas A.
McMasters, III as DAV's National Commander and expresses our
membership's appreciation to him for his invaluable services to the
organization and disabled veterans; AND
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we also extend our sincere appreciation
and thanks to Commander McMasters' wife, Sandra McMasters, and his
entire family for their support and sacrifices during his year as our
National Commander.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 277--ADMINISTRATIVE
appreciation to all who are responsible for the success of the 75th
national convention
WHEREAS, the success for the 75th DAV National Convention convened
in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August 1, 1996, depends on the total
cooperation and unselfish devotion of the State, county and local
officials; and
WHEREAS, the success of this National Convention is also attributed
to the Department and local Chapters and Units of the DAV and DAVA,
particularly to Convention Chairman Paul Benoit; and
WHEREAS, we wish to commend all the news media for their
encouragement and assistance at all of our Convention activities; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, expresses its sincere appreciation to all groups and/or
agencies whose dedication to our principles has made our Convention a
successful one; AND
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we wish to extend to the citizens of
New Orleans, Louisiana, our deepest gratitude for their personal
interest in our great organization; AND
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we wish to extend our appreciation to
all of the distinguished guests who participated in our convention and
support the ideals and principles of our great organization; AND
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we extend our gratitude to the
Convention Chairman, Paul Benoit, and his entire Committee for
providing personalized assistance to our friends and delegates during
our Convention stay.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 278--ADMINISTRATIVE
extend appreciation to the va medical center, new orleans, louisiana,
for the success of the 75th national convention
WHEREAS, the success of the 75th National Convention convened in
New Orleans, Louisiana, depended on the total cooperation and unselfish
devotion of VA officials in Washington, D.C., and New Orleans,
Louisiana; and
WHEREAS, many delegates to our National Convention were in need of
medical treatment and required the assistance of prosthetic equipment
to attend the National Convention; and
WHEREAS, in response to this, the health care officials from the VA
Medical Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, have staffed and maintained in
the Convention hotel an excellent outpatient clinic and prosthetic
service; and
WHEREAS, the medical care and prosthetic services rendered to the
delegates to this 75th National Convention have been extended to a most
compassionate manner and has been of the highest quality; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, expresses its sincere appreciation to the VA Medical Center,
New Orleans, Louisiana, whose dedication to the care and treatment of
the delegates to this 75th National Convention has made our Convention
a successful one.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 279--ADMINISTRATIVE
appreciation to the new orleans hilton riverside for the success of the
75th national convention
WHEREAS, the assistance and cooperation of the New Orleans Hilton
Riverside was essential to the success of the 75th DAV National
Convention, convened in New Orleans, Louisiana; and
WHEREAS, the responsiveness of the hotel's employees to the
requirements of the Convention was beyond compare, meriting the
gratitude of the DAV's officers, delegates and staff; and
WHEREAS, the courtesy of the hotel staff to the delegates and
guests at the Convention was superb throughout the entire course of the
National Convention; and
WHEREAS, everyone associated with the hotel exhibited the highest
degree of professionalism in all areas of their association with the
National Convention; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, expresses its sincere gratitude to the New Orleans Hilton
Riverside and all of its employees for their exceptional assistance in
making the convention a tremendous success.
______
Commander McMasters. Microphone 3. I recognize Microphone
3.
Mr. Herbert A. Parker. Point of information. My name is
Herbert Parker. I'm commander, Chapter 81, North Miami Beach,
Florida. There was a proposal, 076, that was passed, refused on
the floor in this meeting. It was passed by the State of
Florida, March on Washington. Let met elaborate very quickly.
I'll not take too much of your time.
We have all heard, since we've been here, of the bashing
that we have been taking for years, especially from 1965 on,
and what was going on, and what they propose to do now. Our
proposal was to obtain the coordination and cooperation of all
the veterans organizations in the United States for a march on
Washington, not this moment.
The reason for that is this: They said, ``Well, you're
going with an atom bomb when you should use an M1.'' That's
wrong, because comes the end of this election, we can rest
assured that a lot of things are going to happen that we wished
that we had done something.
I'd like to explain one thing. I personally wrote 81
letters to members of Congress. Do you know how many answers I
got? Three! My one state senator, my local congressman and
Jesse Helms. Incidentally, he's a Navy veteran.
Commander McMasters. Okay, sir. Let me just do something
first. I don't want to rule you out of order, because I can see
definitely there's a lot of emotion in this.
Mr. Parker. There is.
Commander McMasters. What I do need, though, is I do need a
motion to accept the report and support for that, and then we
can get into discussion, and then I will allow some remarks.
Mr. McCullough. I would like to discharge the committee
also.
Commander McMasters. And a motion, yes, to discharge the
committee. I have the motion. I need the support. Mike 1.
Mr. Harold Wiley. Harold Wiley, Department of Washington,
Delegate 46, seconds it.
Commander McMasters. Thank you. We have a motion and a
support. We're ready for discussion. Mike 2.
Mr. George Nickolas. George Nickolas, Scott County Chapter
2, Iowa. Under national security, there were two resolutions
that were rejected as indicated as duplicate. They are in no
way duplicate. One dealing with the maintenance of the National
Guard at the strength prior to Desert Storm, not as it has been
emasculated under the current administration. And the second
one deals with peace through strength also dealing with the
maintenance of our defense service at a reasonable level.
They established a benchmark as opposed to a general
statement of maintenance of strength. We are now in the muscle,
not the fat of defense, and we're cutting deeper. The aspects
of these things, I think, become a benchmark and not
necessarily a duplicative effort.
And I would request that they be set aside from the motion
and be voted on separately. I so move to amend the motion to
pull these out and vote on them separately.
Commander McMasters. For Mike Number 2, do you know the
numbers of those motions?
Mr. Nickolas. I sure do: 058 and 059, titled one, ``Peace
Through Strength,'' the second, ``Maintenance''--and I think
misnomer of the person that wrote this up. It says ``current
size.'' It is the size at the beginning of the Persian Gulf
War.
Commander McMasters. Okay. What I need you to do is to read
the RESOLVED portion--oh, I'm sorry. The chairman will read
that for you. He will read the RESOLVED portion. We will set
those aside and consider the remainder of the report.
Mr. McCullough. Are we doing this with the motion or----
Commander McMasters. You're going to do it, but what we're
going to do is set those particular resolutions aside, but we
need you to read the RESOLVED portion of those particular
resolutions.
Mr. McCullough. Resolution 58. National Defense, Subject,
Peace Through Strength.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American
Veterans in National Convention assembled in New Orleans, adopt
this resolution calling upon the President, the Secretary of
Defense and the Congress to maintain a strong military and to
increase the air and sea lift capabilities of our military
service in order that America can respond to any demand for
conventional military force in a short period of time; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that copies of this resolution
be provided to the Speaker of the U.S. House of
Representatives, president of the U.S. Senate, chairmen of the
House and Senate Ways and Means Committees, Armed Services
Committees and the President of the United States.
Member. Point of order. Mike 1. Shouldn't we be finishing
up with the ones already accepted, finish that off and then go
by one by one, because there is a motion on the floor and
there's been a second?
Commander McMasters. No, sir. At this point, I'm not
considering this to be out of order. We're setting up what's
called a minority report.
Member. Is this part of the total resolutions?
Commander McMasters. This will be part of normal procedure.
What will happen is these particular resolutions will be set
aside from consideration by the main motion. We will then
consider the main motion and then consider the minority reports
that we're setting up at this point.
Member. Thank you.
Commander McMasters. Continue, John, please.
Mr. McCullough. Resolution 59. National Defense, Subject,
To Maintain the Current Size of the Federal Reserve and
National Guard.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American
Veterans urge Congress to build and maintain the Federal
Reserve and National Guard Units at the level in existence at
the beginning of the Persian Gulf War, and to modernize them
with the latest and best equipment, aircraft, artillery,
missiles; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that copies of this resolution
be provided to the President of the United States, Speaker of
the U.S. House of Representatives, president of the United
States Senate, and chairmen of the House and Senate Armed
Services Committees.
Now, do I read the original motion that we approved to make
this comparison?
Commander McMasters. Not at this point.
I'm going to go back now to Mike 3, the gentleman from
Florida. Would you continue along the same lines? What we're
doing is basically setting up a minority report for
consideration of that resolution separately from the motion
that's on the floor at this point.
Mr. Parker. I was going to have this request and also, as
the others were considered as a motion, that this would be
reconsidered also as a motion. Now, very quickly, let me say
this----
Commander McMasters. No. What I want done now is give me
the number. I will have the chairman read the THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED part of the resolution, for lack of a better way to
describe it.
Mr. Parker. 076.
Commander McMasters. 076. Okay, John, would you please read
that portion that calls for action.
Mr. McCullogh. Is this Resolution Number 76?
Commander McMasters. Yes.
Mr. McCullough.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that this convention go on record
that it recommends to the National Disabled American Veterans
to explore the possibility of organizing a march on Washington.
Such a march should be coordinated with other concerned and
interested veterans groups. Adopted at the Department of
Florida State Convention, June 8, 1996.
Commander McMasters. Okay. Thank you, John.
Now, what we're going to do is we're going to consider the
main motion that was offered by John McCullough to adopt the
report, and we're going to set aside those three resolutions
that we've set up minority reports for and consider them
separately after this. Are you ready for the questions?
Mr. Nickolas. Point of order. Your main motion indicates
that the committee will be dismissed. If the committee is
dismissed, I believe it would be out of order to consider the
three that are set aside.
Commander McMasters. What's going to happen at that point
is the committee is going to be dismissed. Your resolutions are
going to then be considered by the convention floor. Okay?
Are we ready for the main motion? Ready for the question?
All in favor, signify by Aye; opposed. It's carried.
Now, I'm going to ask for discussion on Resolution 58. I'm
going to ask for a report from one of the members of the
committee to help us understand what the committee went through
when they considered this particular resolution.
Mr. McCullough. At this time, I would defer to the advisors
on the discussion we had regarding these resolutions at
committee.
Commander McMasters. Thank you and your committee for the
work that you've done, John. [Applause.]
Mr. Surratt. Okay. As I understand it, Commander, you want
an explanation of Resolution Number 58?
Commander McMasters. Number 58. We're going to discuss 58
at this point.
Mr. Surratt. I'm Rick Surratt, assistant national
legislative director and an advisor to this committee. [Cries
of ``Can't hear you.'']
Commander McMasters. You know, Rick, before we do this, I
think what we'd better do is get a motion on the floor.
At this time, I'm going to entertain a motion to consider--
Mike Number 2.
Mr. Nickolas. I move to adopt the Peace Through Strength,
058 resolution. George Nickolas, Scott County Chapter Number 2.
Commander McMasters. Is there support? Mike Number 3.
NEC 10th District Lowell G. McKeehan. Lowell McKeehan, past
department commander of Michigan, supports.
Commander McMasters. Okay. We have a motion and support to
adopt the Resolution 58. I'm going to start the discussion with
one of the committee advisors, Rick Surratt. Rick.
Mr. Surratt. Again, I'm Rick Surratt, assistant national
legislative director and one of the committee advisors on this
committee. We actually had three resolutions dealing with
national security. We had 58; another resolution which was
adopted by our Interim Legislative Committee, and that was
supporting a strong national defense. That's the one we have
virtually every year. We had a third resolution on this area
maintaining the current size of the Federal Reserve and the
National Guard.
Number 58 was rejected merely because it was a duplicate of
the one that the Interim Legislative Committee forwarded to
this convention committee.
Commander McMasters. Mike Number 2, I'm going to give you a
chance for rebuttal.
Mr. Nickolas. Mike Number 2, Scott County Chapter 2,
Davenport, Iowa, George Nickolas. The point is, I think that
it's ambiguous to say support a national defense, but of what
size? And I'm being specific about enlarging the air lift
capability and the merchant fleet. You know, during the Gulf
War, our reserve fleet kind of broke down going out of port. So
what I'm saying is, let's look at that from a standpoint of
being able to deliver the goods and services to the troops in
the field. And we need to rebuild that capability. We don't
have it today.
Commander McMasters. Okay. is there any further discussion
on Resolution 58? Any further discussion on Resolution Number
58? Are we ready for the question? The question is to adopt
Resolution Number 58. All in favor, signify by Aye; all
opposed. The motion fails.
The Chair will now entertain a motion on Resolution Number
59. Mike number 2.
Mr. Nickolas. George Nickolas, Scott County Chapter 2 moves
the adoption of 059 dealing with the maintenance of the
National Guard and the Reserve units at the level in existence
on the day the Persian Gulf War began.
Commander McMasters. Do we have a support for the motion?
Mr. Russ Bain. Bain, Scott County Chapter 2, seconds, from
Iowa.
Commander McMasters. Okay. We have a motion and support.
I'm going to again ask one of the committee advisors for the
discussion of the committee.
Mr. Surratt. Okay. Again, we adopted Resolution Number 249
which supports a strong national defense. Resolution Number 59,
which speaks specifically to the Reserves and National Guard
would be subsumed in the broader resolution. Another reason
that we usually don't adopt these types of resolutions in the
committee is because they are targeted to specific defense
actions, like supporting the B1 bomber or certain ships, or
things of that nature. We're not experts in national defense in
the DAV.
Our primary mission is to work for service-connected
disabled veterans and their benefits, although we are a
patriotic organization, and we do have a general stance to
support a strong national defense.
But again, 59 was rejected as a duplicate because it would
be subsumed in the broader resolution that we adopted. That
again was an interim committee resolution.
Commander McMasters. Mike Number 2.
Mr. Nickolas. General Somerville, after World War II, made
a statement, I think, that's profound and applies. He says that
to defend your country, one must maintain in a period of
peacetime a force sufficient to deter an enemy act. The aspect
of cutting the Reserve units down--and they are being cut
down--to a level pre-World War II, pre-Persian gulf, to me is
unconscionable.
I think that we as an organization must maintain a strong
defense which includes the Reserve, but by making a general
statement, you give no benchmark as to the level of a defense
that's necessary. You know, the bottom-up review that was done
by the President said we should have 14 divisions to maintain a
two and a half front war. We are at ten, and those divisions
are not full strength. They don't even have adequate equipment.
During the Persian Gulf, we begged Japan to supply
components for our F15 to keep them flying. You know, what
we've done in fact is disarmed America while some other
countries have not disarmed. If you don't read the right
publications, Defense News, International Armed Services, and
etcetera, you don't get the flavor of this. But the Russians
are still modernizing; we're not.
Commander McMasters. Is there any further discussion on
Resolution 59? Any further discussion on Resolution 59? Are we
ready for the question? Okay. The question is to adopt
Resolution Number 59. All in favor, signify by Aye; opposed.
The motion fails.
The Chair will now entertain a motion concerning Resolution
Number 76. Mike 3.
NEC McKeehan. Lowell McKeehan, past Department of Michigan,
so moves.
Commander McMasters. I'm sorry. I need a definite action
what you want us to take. I'm entertaining a motion concerning
Resolution Number 76. I didn't ask for any direction whether to
adopt or reject, and that's what we're looking for.
NEC McKeehan. Adopt. For the march on Washington?
Commander McMasters. Are you going to make the motion, sir?
NEC McKeehan. Did you want a motion to adopt that or----
Commander McMasters. What I'm asking for is a motion to
direct us to take some kind of action on Resolution 76, whether
to adopt or reject. Which way would you prefer to be, sir?
NEC McKeehan. I make a motion--Lowell McKeehan, past
department commander of Michigan, make a motion that we reject.
Commander McMasters. Okay. Lowell, just as a matter of
record, what I actually need is your chapter that you're
representing.
NEC McKeehan. Lavonia Chapter 114, Michigan.
Commander McMasters. Okay. Thank you. That was a motion to
reject. Is there support? Is there support? There is a motion
to reject. Is there support? Okay. The motion dies for lack of
support.
Is there a motion to consider?
Mr. Alfred L. Hindes. Hindes of Michigan will make that
motion to adopt.
Commander McMasters. Okay. Can I have your--state your full
credentials, Al.
Mr. Hindes. Chapter 3, Michigan.
Commander McMasters. Okay. Al Hines, Chapter 3, Michigan,
moves to adopt Resolution 76. Is that what I heard? That's
correct. Is there support?
Mr. Parker. I second it.
Commander McMasters. Can I have a name, please?
Mr. Parker. North Miami Beach Chapter 81, Herb Parker.
Commander McMasters. We have a motion with a support to
adopt Resolution 76. At this time, I'm going to ask Rick
Surratt to provide discussion from the committee's viewpoint.
Mr. Surratt. Your Committee on General Resolutions rejected
this resolution because--many reasons. those of you that were
in here earlier today and heard Mr. Gorman's, the executive
director's report, heard him say that we have a lot of
credibility in Washington. We have that because we only fight
when we have a real fight. We don't get involved in things that
don't warrant putting the credibility of the organization
behind, and a march on Washington right now, in the committee's
view, is unwarranted.
One of the major problems with a march on Washington is,
first of all, we don't really have any issue that is so drastic
that we need to do that. that's something that we need to
reserve for the darkest day. While things are not as good as
they could be, we don't have that situation right now. We would
be crying wolf, in our view, if we marched on Washington.
Beyond that, it would not be solely a DAV move. Many
organizations could be involved in that. Many things that could
happen in Washington wouldn't necessarily reflect well on the
DAV. If you had, for example, a very radical veterans movement,
there could be flag burning. There could be all kinds of acts
that wouldn't reflect well on veterans.
So a march is something that could have adverse
consequences. In other words, we could turn the tide of public
opinion against us, rather than our favor, if it wasn't handled
properly. And since it wouldn't be handled by the DAV alone, we
don't have control over what could happen. So I think we would
be well advised to be very careful to do anything like that,
especially as long as we're doing fairly well on the
legislative front, and it's just not warranted.
If they were to say--if Congress were to attempt to take
away our compensation or something of that nature, then we
might revisit that issue. But today a march on Washington is
just not warranted. And that's what your committee that you
elected, your General Resolutions Committee, almost
overwhelmingly--I think there was one vote in favor of this
motion--rejected it.
Commander McMasters. Okay, thank you.
Mike Number 3. Any further discussion, sir?
Mr. Parker. Well, the only thing I'm going to say is this:
When I cry wolf, it's just the idea, it's just the idea of
this, of making them cognizant of the fact we're just not
laying on our backs, that there is a tentative feeling amongst
the veterans of America that this can be done and will be done,
should the day come that we have to do it. And that alone, I'm
sure, can get back to them to know that the veterans, when push
comes to shoving, we're there, and we will be there.
You know, five million veterans marching is a lot more than
what the others have done. And this is what we intended to
bring to mind. It wasn't the intent to march like now. It was
just the sense of knowing that the veterans organizations are
united, should it ever come, and it may come to it yet. We
don't know what's going to happen after this election or the
next. Because we all know what's been happening over the years.
They've been cutting down, cutting down.
And we know what's in the books right now, what they're
going to do to the veterans hospitals.
Commander McMasters. Okay. For the purpose of the record,
will you please state your name and your credentials again.
Mr. Parker. Herbert A. Parker, North Miami Beach Chapter,
Florida 81.
Commander McMasters. Thank you very much.
Is there any further discussion? Mike Number 3.
Mr. Eduardo Posada. Yes, Comrade Chairman. Ed Posada from
Florida, Chapter 3. As the adjutant for District 12, I had the
responsibility of drafting the resolution. I apologize it
wasn't clear enough, but I think we're going to make it clearer
if it's necessary. But as the recipient of benefits at the VA
hospital in Miami, let me tell you something. The other day,
for instance, I have to get medication. Well, they couldn't
give me----
Commander McMasters. Okay, sir, we understand that, but
that's not the resolution.
Mr. Posada. Let me give you an idea, please. Let me finish.
I've got five minutes, right? I'm not going to take the five
minutes, sir. I just want to tell you this much. When the lady,
the pharmacist, told me look, ``They cut us $700,000 in this
hospital,'' just to give you an example of what's happening
across the country--when Jesse Brown stood here yesterday and
told us about changes like taxing compensation, pensions and
terminating compensation for veterans rated 10 and 20 percent
disabled, all of those things have been on the floor. This may
still happen.
Commander, you yourself here yesterday, when you had those
things up there, what you had on the Internet, which is half
joke, half serious, things may happen.
We're not asking that we get on the buses tomorrow morning.
We're simply saying we should get ready in case we have to. It
doesn't say we have to go tomorrow. We say if it's feasible.
You look at the resolution--I think it wasn't read correctly.
If feasible.
Commander McMasters. Okay. Thank you for your thoughts on
that.
Is there anyone that wants to speak opposing the
resolution, opposing the adoption of the resolution? Okay. The
motion that we're going to consider, the motion on the floor,
is a motion to adopt Resolution Number 76. Do we all understand
what we're voting on? Are we ready for the question? We're
ready for the question? All in favor, signify by Aye; all
opposed. The motion fails.
Thank you very much.
For the record, the convention has already discharged the
General Resolutions Committee by their motion to adopt the
report of the committee.
At this time, I'm going to call on our National Employment
Director, Ronald Drach for his presentation of Employment
Awards.
Mr. Ronald W. Drach. Thank you, Commander. Good afternoon.
It's my honor and pleasure to be able to again recognize the
Outstanding Disabled Veterans Outreach Program Specialist,
commonly called DVOP, for the year 1996. These DVOP specialists
provide intense one-on-one employment assistance to men and
women who became disabled as a result of their military
service.
Our recipient this year is a retired U.S. Army major who
served tours of duty in Europe and Vietnam and was awarded the
Purple Heart, two bronze stars, and several other military
decorations.
He began his second career as a DVOP specialist in
Pennsylvania in 1993. Our recipient provides both
individualized employment and training services to veterans and
has established job-hunting seminars and workshops throughout
the Upper Lackawanna and all of Susquehanna Counties. Only us
Pennsylvanians can pronounce those two names.
Additionally, he does extensive outreach to include
visiting employers and encourages them to contact the
Carbondale Job Center if job opportunities for veterans become
available.
During 1995, he worked with the Governor's Outreach Center,
the Federal and State Veterans Affairs Departments and veterans
service organizations to develop the first Veterans Outreach
Program at the Montrose Job Center.
He is a life member of DAV Chapter Number 11 in Dixon,
Pennsylvania.
National Commander McMasters, delegates and guests, I am
pleased to present to you our Outstanding DVOP Specialist for
this year from Carbondale, Pennsylvania, Francis J. ``Frank''
Paris. [Applause.]
Commander McMasters. The inscription is, ``Disabled
American Veterans proudly recognizes the contributions made by
Francis Paris, DVOP, Carbondale, Pennsylvania, for your
outstanding accomplishments and your dedication in assisting
disabled veterans to obtain employment and training
opportunities and for your contributions to the Disabled
Veterans Outreach program. July 29th, 1996.'' This is signed by
both myself and National Adjutant Arthur Wilson. [Applause.]
Mr. Frank J. Paris. I'm going to make this real short.
Isn't this great? This is the most outstanding award I've
received in my life, and I just think we all go back home with
one thing in mind: Let's make every day veterans' day and let's
get those vets employed. Thank you very much. [Applause.]
Mr. Drach. We also recognize the office which employs the
nation's Outstanding Disabled Veterans' Outreach Program
Specialist. Like the LVER, it is virtually impossible for the
DVOP to do an outstanding job of assisting disabled veterans
without the complete support of all the employees. So again, we
will recognize the office which employs Mr. Paris.
Regrettably, no one from the office could be here to accept
the award, so Mr. Paris will accept it on behalf of the entire
office also. [Applause.]
Commander McMasters. The inscription reads, ``The Disabled
American Veterans proudly recognizes the Carbondale Job Center,
Carbondale, Pennsylvania for distinguished service to our
nation's disabled veterans in ensuring them the opportunity to
lead productive lives by pursuing meaningful careers. July
29th, 1996.'' Signed by myself and again, National Adjutant
Arthur Wilson. [Applause.]
Mr. Paris. We may be a small office in a rural community,
in a coal cracking community, but we have the heart and the
desire of a lion. Again, thank you very much. [Applause.]
Mr. Drach. Our top local veterans employment representative
for 1996 works in the State of Washington at the Tri-City's Job
Service Center. He is being recognized for his key role in the
community as an advocate for veterans and for helping them find
suitable jobs and training. LVERs are responsible for assuring
that job-seeking veterans receive needed services to improve
their employment prospects.
Our recipient this year served on active duty in the Navy
for 30 years, and prior to his recent retirement, was head of
the Job Center's Veterans Unit Team which consistently met or
exceeded all federal performance standards in assisting
veterans in their job search efforts. During the past four
years, 70 percent of all veterans registered with the Job
Center found employment. A 50 percent service-connected
disabled veteran himself, he has worked closely with other
disabled veterans, finding employment or job opportunities for
more than 100 disabled veterans a year.
Part of his success comes from his continued contacts with
employers and civic, fraternal and veterans organizations to
publicize the center's services and find new employment
opportunities for veterans. He also chaired the State Veterans
Training Conference.
His dedication to his fellow veterans also earned him an
award in 1995 as the Outstanding Employee of the Year from the
Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs, primarily for
his work with the Benton/Franklin Veterans Service Coalition's
``Stand Down'' for homeless veterans.
Our recipient this year is a life member of DAV Chapter
Number 46, Tri-Cities, Washington.
National Commander McMasters, delegates and guests, it is
my pleasure to present to you the nation's Outstanding LVER for
1996, James E. McCormick of Pasco, Washington. [Applause.]
Commander McMasters. ``The Disabled American Veterans
proudly presents the National Commander's Ward to the nation's
Outstanding Local Veterans Employment Representative, James E.
McCormick, Pasco, Washington, for your outstanding dedication
and distinguished employment assistance to our nation's
service-connected disabled veterans and other veterans. Dated
July 29, 1996.'' Signed by myself and National Adjutant Arthur
Wilson. [Applause.]
Mr. James E. McCormick. I'm usually not at a loss for
words, but this is a tremendous award, and I wish to thank Ron
and the members of the Awards Committee for the selection. I
appreciate it. Thank you much. [Applause.]
Mr. Drach. As we have done in the past, we wish to
recognize the entire office where the local veterans employment
representative is employed. We all know that the LVER cannot
accomplish the goals and objectives without support of the
entire office staff. Working together as a cohesive unit
assures job-seeking veterans, especially disabled veterans,
receive needed services.
Here to accept the award is Mr. J.C. Cordero. [Applause.]
Commander McMasters. The inscription reads, ``The Disabled
American Veterans proudly recognizes the Tri-Cities Job Service
Center at Pasco, Washington for distinguished service to our
nation's disabled veterans in ensuring them the opportunity to
lead productive lives by pursuing meaningful careers. Dated
July 29th, 1996.'' Signed by myself and again National Adjutant
Arthur Wilson. [Applause.]
Mr. J.C. Cordero. It's a privilege and an honor to be with
you here today, and already I can tell you Jim's been retired
about one month today, and I just wanted to say that with his
retirement, our commitment to veterans' programs has not been
retired. So I am here to promise to you our continued
commitment and support of veterans' services in our local
community of Tri-Cities in the State of Washington. Thank you.
[Applause.]
Mr. Drach. Of course, the work of the LVERs and DVOPs would
not be complete if there weren't employers out there who were
willing and able to hire disabled veterans. For that reason, we
recognize employers.
Our Outstanding Large Employer of the Year comes to us from
Fort Hood, Texas. The recipient this year is a large employer
with sites throughout the country. When they were awarded a
large government contract in June of 1995 to provide aircraft
maintenance, logistics and modification services to the U.S.
Army, they had only one month to begin operations at Fort Hood.
Despite this short time frame, this firm, headquartered in
Reston, Virginia, demonstrated its commitment to hiring
disabled veterans. Its Fort Hood work force includes 49
disabled veterans, 12 of whom have conditions rated at 30
percent or more disabling. More than 200 Vietnam Era veterans
were hired during that same time.
Disabled veterans were not given just entry-level jobs;
they were put into positions at all levels in the organization,
upper and middle management, direct-line supervisors,
maintenance operations crew and support staff. This firm
clearly recognizes that disabled veterans can and do make a
significant contribution to its operations and has set a high
standard for hiring disabled veterans.
Commander McMasters, delegates and guests, our recipient of
the Large Employer of the Year Award is Dyncorp, Fort Hood,
Texas, and here to accept the award is Jim Herbert, branch
manager. [Applause.]
Commander McMasters. I'll read the inscription. ``The
Disabled American Veterans National Commander's Award is
presented to the Outstanding Large Employer of the Year,
Dyncorp, Fort Hood, Texas, for conspicuous and meritorious
effort in providing employment opportunities for disabled
veterans; further, that consistent and noteworthy efforts will
serve as an inspiration and challenge to other employers. Dated
July 29th, 1996.'' Signed by myself and National Adjutant
Arthur Wilson. [Applause.]
Mr. Jim Hebert. I've only three quick things I'd like to
say. Number 1, any organization that does not look into the
veterans and disabled veterans as a place to find the top-notch
help that they need is either doing it voluntarily or
involuntarily, and they don't know what they're missing.
[Applause.]
Number 2, I'll take this back to Fort Hood and let our
employees see it, and it'll be displayed in a very prominent
place.
And Number 3, while my fellow employees at Fort Hood will
be very receptive and very proud of this, they do not have the
heartfelt feeling that I feel at this moment, looking on the
faces of all of you.
Thank you very much for you and your commanders.
[Applause.]
Mr. Drach. A Department of Veterans Affairs VA Regional
Office has been selected as our Outstanding Small Employer of
the Year for 1996.
Many would expect the VA to be a leader in the employment
of veterans and disabled veterans. This is true, because the VA
leads the nation in employment of veterans. However, what makes
this particular regional office unique is that of their 165
employees, 50, 30 percent, are disabled veterans. As I said,
that represents more than 30 percent of their total work force.
We all know that over the last couple of years, there have
been hiring freezes on federal agencies, and most recently
because of down-sizing efforts there has not been a lot of new
hiring. However, during the last half of 1995 before a hiring
freeze was imposed on the office, 50 percent of all the new
employees were disabled veterans. One out of every five of
these new hires had a disability rating of more than 30
percent.
By the very nature of its mission, this VA office is a
community leader in advancing the interests and promoting the
hiring of veterans and disabled veterans. Disabled veterans
employed at this regional office occupy positions at all levels
of responsibility and in a wide variety of occupations.
Success in disabled veterans' employment comes in part from
federal requirements that all federal agencies give priority to
employing disabled veterans. But, administrators and staff over
time at this VA office have demonstrated a clear pattern of
exceptional effort and accomplishments in considering and
hiring disabled veterans.
National Commander McMasters, delegates and guests, our
recipient of the Small Employer of the Year Award is the VA
Regional Office, Columbia, South Carolina. Here to accept the
award is the regional office director, Mr. R. Stedman Sloan,
Jr. [Applause.]
Commander McMasters. The inscription: ``The Disabled
American Veterans National Commander's Award is presented to
the Outstanding Small Employer of the Year, the Department of
Veterans Affairs Regional Office, Columbia, South Carolina for
conspicuous and meritorious effort in providing employment
opportunities for disabled veterans; further, that such
consistent and noteworthy efforts will serve as an inspiration
and challenge to other employers. Dated July 29th, 1996.''
Thank you, sir. [Applause.]
Mr. R. Stedman Sloan, Jr. Commander McMasters, Chairman
Drach, delegates to the National Convention: I feel
particularly privileged to attend your convention in New
Orleans this year, and honored to receive this award, which I
do on behalf of the employees of the regional office in
Columbia, and particularly those disabled veterans who are at
this very moment providing service to their fellow veterans in
a variety of programs meeting their needs.
I'd like to recognize at this time the human resource
officer for the Columbia office who has played a major role in
our success in hiring disabled veterans, Bill Wykert.
[Applause.]
I can tell you this afternoon that we hire disabled
veterans because of their personal characteristics of a great
sense of responsibility, a dedication to serving their nation,
and compassion for their fellow veterans. But the real reason
that we hire disabled veterans in our office is because it's
the right thing to do. We've done it over the years. We'll do
it in the future.
They provide a valuable resource to our nation, and we
recognize it in Columbia, and we feel privileged that we have
the opportunity to put meaning to those words, putting veterans
first.
Thank you very much. [Applause.]
Mr. Drach. Mr. Commander, that completes the awards, but if
I may just for a second, for purposes of recognition, I would
like to have stand the Assistant Secretary of Labor for
Veterans Employment and Training, Preston Taylor. [Applause.]
Commander McMasters. Thank you, Ron.
It is now my great pleasure to introduce a man who I once
called National Commander, a man who distinguished himself
during his 1983-84 term as commander. He is a man who
epitomizes the very best of the DAV, a man who has always
reached out in friendship to disabled veterans and their
families.
And today he serves as the president of the Board of the
DAV Vietnam Veterans National Memorial at Angel Fire, New
Mexico. As such, he has eloquently led the affairs of the
memorial, which stands as a moving tribute to the dignity of
the men and women who fought and sacrificed so much in Vietnam.
This moving memorial reflects not only the grief of those who
died in war, but the prayer for peace in all of us, and a
promise of hope for America's future.
Please join me in welcoming Past National Commander and DAV
Vietnam Veterans National Memorial President Dennis Joyner.
[Applause.]
Mr. Dennis Joyner. Thank you, Commander McMasters. National
Commander Tom McMasters, Adjutant Art Wilson, distinguished
guests, delegates and friends: It is my pleasure to speak with
you here today about the DAV Vietnam Veterans National
Memorial.
But before I present my remarks, I'd first like to
introduce our Board of Directors. In addition to myself,
there's Bruce Hansen, who serves as vice-president. I believe
Bruce is up here. We have Al Linden, who's secretary-treasurer;
Enid Zysk; and Ray Hall. And in addition, Nancy O'Brien from
National Headquarters in Cincinnati serves as our
administrator. We want to thank her.
Rather than present a prolonged report, though, I though
I'd like to show you a film that we have prepared since our
last national convention. I'm sure that you'll find the film
speaks very powerfully of the memorial, its mission and its
meaning to America's veterans. Would you please lower the
lights?
[Video presentation.]
Mr. Joyner. I would just say that that's a very, moving
film, and those letters that were read in the film were letters
that have been sent to the memorial, just a few of the many,
many letters and photos that we have on hand.
We on the memorial's Board of Directors are particularly
proud of that film and hope that it will help to spread the
memorials message throughout the nation.
And here today we would like to ask you, our members, for a
little bit of help. The memorial's archives still need to find
more photographs of men and women who died in Vietnam. We need
those photos to carry out that part of our mission that
involves the war's dead. So if any of you know any families in
your communities who have lost a loved one in Vietnam who has
given that ultimate sacrifice, maybe you could help us by
contacting them and see if they would be willing to provide a
photo for us to display at the memorial.
However, at the memorial we've always seen it as a mission,
a living mission also, not only a mission to those who lived to
come home from Southeast Asia, but to our society as a whole.
That's why I'm pleased to report that we've completed some very
necessary upgrades for our interactive educational exhibit in
the memorial's visitors center. You just can't believe how much
this exhibit, and indeed our whole visitors center, means to
those who come to see us in Angel Fire.
It's a moving experience, almost as moving as the chapel
itself, for veterans and their families. And for those who
don't know much about the war and its consequences, we provide
an experience that they'll never forget.
Highlights of this past year included our Memorial Day
program that featured an eloquent keynote address by Bill
Demby, who many of you may remember as a Vietnam veteran who
lost a leg there, and he was in a DuPont commercial that was
seen playing on TV where he was playing basketball on his
prosthesis.
It's been a very good year for the memorial, and I want to
thank all of you in the DAV and the Auxiliary for that success.
Commander McMasters, this concludes my report. But at this
time, there are two things I would like to do. First, I would
like to make just a small presentation to a member of our Board
that has been very helpful, especially to Nancy O'Brien and I
over the years. As you can imagine, managing a memorial that is
a couple of thousand miles away from Headquarters takes an
extreme effort, and at times we've had to send our secretary-
treasurer, Al Linden, out to the memorial. And each time that
he goes out, he never fails to talk to us--Al, maybe you could
come forward--about a special place that he passes on the way
up to Angel Fire called Camel Rock.
And Al, we happened to find this picture and memorial of
you standing in front of Camel Rock, and we'd like to present
this, Nancy and I and the entire Board. Congratulations.
[Applause.]
As you know, many of our members like to make contributions
to the memorial following this report. I'd like to begin that
process here today by inviting Ms. June Springer, the commander
of the DAV Department of Virginia, to the podium with the
department adjutant, Mr. Dave Tannenbaum. The chapters in
Virginia, as well as the department itself have been busy at
work building support for the DAV Vietnam Veterans National
Memorial, and I've been told that they have quite a surprise
for us. Commander Springer.
Ms. June Springer. Last year, many members of the
Department of Virginia visited the Angel Fire memorial, and
when they came back, it was with solitude and majesty and the
aura that the memorial provided them. Also after all of these
visits, the Department of Virginia asked many of the chapters
if they would support and have a fund-raising effort to support
the memorial.
The response was overwhelming. I would like to take just a
moment to read into the record the following contributions that
were received. From the Lester Gordon Chapter 2, $300; from
Norfolk Chapter 4, $25; from the Murray Ray Peninsula Chapter
Number 6, $855; from the Campbell Lynchburg Chapter Number 8,
$540; from Arlington Fairfax Chapter 10, $750; from Mount
Vernon Chapter 11, $100; from the York County Victory Chapter
13, $200; from Salem Vietnam Veterans Chapter 14, $400; Prince
William County Chapter Number 15, $500; Archer Gannon Chapter
Number 19, $500; Virginia Beach Chapter 20, $100; Portsmouth
Chapter 27, $160; Galax Chapter 37, $120; Craddock Chapter 41,
$300; Paul Love Chapter 44, $400; Grayson County Chapter 49,
$40; General Anthony Wayne Chapter 58, $125; and the Department
of Virginia, $4,000.
We propose that this contribution be used as the seed for
an endowment fund designed to make the memorial self-
sufficient, and we would like to challenge all other
departments to join us in this worthy effort. Will you all help
us?
I would like to ask Past Department Commander Melton, also
Enid Zysk, the Board member, and the department adjutant, Dave
Tannenbaum, to assist in making this presentation of this check
in the amount of $10,000. [Applause.]
Mr. Joyner. Thank you.
I have also been given checks from Don Pouliot from
California for $50; Tri-County Chapter 67 in Pennsylvania,
which is the home chapter of our 3rd National Junior Vice-
Commander Andy Kistler, $500; and over 4th National Junior
Vice-Commander Dobmeier, $50.
Are there any other?
Judge Advocate Edward G. Galian. The Department of New York
most humbly offers and donates to you at this time from its
meager assets $1,000.
Mr. Joyner. Thank you very much.
Member. Dennis, on behalf of the Department of California,
it gives me great pleasure to present to you a check for $1,000
from California.
Mr. Joyner. Thank you very much.
Member. On behalf of the officers and members of DAV
Chapter Number 1, St. Louis, Missouri and the DAV Ladies
Auxiliary, we're happy to present to the DAV Vietnam Memorial
Veterans Fund $100.
Mr. Joyner. Thank you very much.
Member. On behalf of the Department of Maryland, we wish to
present a check to you, president, for your support of $1,000.
Mr. Joyner. Thank you.
Mr. Walter H. Wessing. National Commander, Past National
Commander Dennis Joyner, I'm a little bitty guy. I don't know
my name, but I'm a Missouri boy. This money I give comes from
my heart. It don't come from the chapter. It comes from me. So
now I'm going to give the taxes first--I generally do--and give
you the money later on. So here's four quarters, and I've got
some more. Don't spend it in the gambling club. One hundred
dollars, $200. Commander and Past Dennis, that's my every year.
If I can next year, I'll maybe give a little bit more, because
I'll be in Vegas, and that's where I hit the money. Walter
Wessing, Chapter Number 2, Kansas City, Missouri.
Mr. Joyner. Thank you, Walter.
Mr. Richard Christopher. Richard Christopher, Chapter 115,
Saugus, Mass., would like to make a personal donation of $300.
Mr. Joyner. Thank you.
Member. Chapter Number 1, Sioux Falls, South Dakota, would
like to donate a hundred dollars.
Mr. Joyner. Thank you.
Member. On behalf of the State Department of Missouri, I'd
like to donate $200.
Mr. Joyner. Thank you.
Member. On behalf of the State of Kansas, this is Chapter
4, I'd like to donate $500; on the Department of the State of
Kansas, I'd like to donate another $500.
Mr. Joyner. Thank you very much.
Mr. H. G. Krosschell. The State of South Dakota Department,
$250. H. G. Krosschell, Department of South Dakota.
Mr. Joyner. Thank you.
Mr. Edward M. Swan. My name is Commander Edward Swan from
DAV Chapter Keene-Rankin in Metro Detroit, Chapter 1. I would
like to give a hundred dollars. And somebody lost their son for
me to be able to make it back home to Detroit, and I just keep
praying that we all keep trying to help as much as we can. I
made it back because someone lost their life.
Mr. Joyner. Thank you.
Member. Commander, Past Commander, on behalf of Chapter 32
from the State of Oklahoma, I give you $100.
Mr. Joyner. Thank you very much.
I thank each and every one of you for your continued
support, not only today but throughout the year to the
memorial.
Mr. John F. Houston. Comrade Commander, John Houston, past
department commander, Chapter 19, Indiana. I'd also like to
make a comment on that, that the shirts that they have on sale,
also the jackets, the pins and the copies of the tapes you've
just seen, which I bought one, the proceeds also go towards
this memorial.
Commander McMasters. Thank you.
We'll now entertain a motion to accept the report of the
president of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial at Angel Fire. Mike
Number 1.
Mr. Richard J. Hennesey. PDC Hennesey, Department of
Connecticut, moves acceptance of the report.
Commander McMasters. Thank you. Is there support? Mike
Number 3.
Mr. Robert Melcher. Bob Melcher, senior vice-commander of
the State of Florida, seconds that.
Commander McMasters. Are you ready for the question? Ready
for the question? All in favor, signify by Aye; opposed. That's
carried.
At this time, I'll call on the Constitution and Bylaws
Committee for the first reading of the amendments to the
National Constitution and Bylaws. Tom Daley.
Mr. Thomas J. Daley. This is the report for the National
Convention Committee on Constitution and Bylaws. Comrade
Commander and delegates: The National Convention Committee on
Constitution and Bylaws was called to order at its first
business session on July 29th, 1996 by the committee advisors,
Fred Bristol and Edward Galian.
The first order of business was the election of a
convention committee chairman. Thomas J. Daley was nominated
for chairman. There being no further nominations, nominations
were closed, and Thomas J. Daley was elected chairman. The next
order of business was the nomination and election of secretary.
Sally Wilson was nominated and elected as secretary of the
committee.
The committee then proceeded to review the resolutions
submitted, and I will report to you the resolutions recommended
for adoption by this national convention. For the purpose of
saving time, I will read only the number and resolved portions
of the resolutions. This is the first reading. There will be no
voting today.
Resolution Number 197. I'd just like to direct everybody's
attention to the RESOLVED. I'm only going to read it once.
These resolutions will be placed on your chairs tomorrow when
you come in the morning. So please pay attention to the
RESOLVED portion of this resolution.
RESOLVED to amend the indicated sections of the National
Bylaws of the Disabled American Veterans by adding/omitting
text as follows. Omissions are indicated by lining through and
additions are indicated by underlining:
Section 3.10. Rules of the Convention.
(b) If such resolution proposes to amend the Constitution or
Bylaws, it may not be considered unless the proponent had it
read at the time the resolutions favorably reported by the
Convention Constitution and Bylaws Committee were read to the
convention in accordance with Section 3.10, Rule 21(d).
Resolution 200, Section 6.4, Suspension and
Revocation of Charters.
Paragraph 4. When the charter of any chapter has been
revoked, all members of the chapter shall be transferred by the
national adjutant to the state at-large chapter. In the absence
of a state at-large chapter, the members shall be transferred
to the Nomad National At-Large Chapter.
Paragraph 5. Upon revocation of the charter of any chapter or
county or district council where no state department exists, or
upon revocation of any charter of a state department, all
property, money and effects of said state department, chapter
or county or district council shall revert to the national
organization, there to be held in trust for 18 months. In the
event the state department, chapter or county or district
council's charter is not reissued within the 18-month period,
the said property, money and effects shall become the absolute
property of the national organization. Disposition of assets of
units of the DAV Women's Auxiliary are controlled by the
appropriate provisions of their Constitution and Bylaws.
Paragraph 6. Upon revocation of the charter of a chapter or
county or district council under the jurisdiction of a state
department, all property, money and effects of the chapter or
county or district council shall become the property of the
state department. Disposition of assets of units of the DAV
Women's Auxiliary are controlled by the appropriate provisions
of their Constitution and Bylaws. Resolution 201. Term of
Office of Certain Appointees.
Paragraph 1. The term of office of persons appointed by the
national commander under Section 7.2 of these Bylaws and of
persons appointed by the national adjutant under Section 7.4 of
these Bylaws shall not exceed that of the appointing power and
may be terminated at any time by the appointing power,
provided, however, that the removal of the national adjutant by
the national commander is subject to approval by a two-thirds
vote of the National Executive Committee. The National
Executive Committee may, by a two-thirds vote of its members,
remove the national adjutant from office for cause.
Paragraph 2. The term of office of all persons appointed by
the national commander under Section 7.2 of these Bylaws and of
all persons appointed by the national adjutant under Section
714 of these Bylaws terminates automatically at the adjournment
of each convention, except that such appointees who are not
employees of the national organization may continue to serve
until their successors are installed. There is no right
whatsoever to reappointment to any position held by appointment
under Section 7.2 or under Section 7.4 of these Bylaws.
Resolution 202. Section 8.4, Financial Records and Reports.
Paragraph 2. The financial statements as required by these
Bylaws must be audited by an independent public accountant if
the gross annual income excluding membership per capita,
exceeds $300,000 from all sources.
Resolution Number 203. Section 8.5, Department
Constitution, Bylaws and Regulations.
Paragraph 2. Each state department shall include the
following provision in its Bylaws unless prohibited by the
charitable trust laws of its particular state:
``This department recognizes the national organization known
as Disabled American Veterans, incorporated by Act of Congress,
and affirms its allegiance and subordination to the national
organization, its Constitution, Bylaws and all rules, mandates
and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto. Upon dissolution
of the department, the assets remaining after the payment of
its debts shall be distributed as provided in Article 6,
Section 6.4, Paragraphs 5 and 6 of the National Bylaws.''
Resolution Number 204. Section 8.6, Annual State
Convention.
Paragraph 2. There shall be no form of unit rule or voting by
proxy.
Resolution 205. Article 9, Chapters. 9.1: Chapter
Constitution; Bylaws; Regulations.
Paragraph 2. Each chapter shall include the following
provision in its Bylaws unless prohibited by the charitable
trust laws of its particular state:
``This chapter recognizes the national organization known as
Disabled American Veterans, incorporated by Act of Congress,
and affirms its allegiance and subordination to the national
organization, its Constitution, Bylaws and all rules, mandates
and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto. Upon dissolution
of the chapter, the assets remaining after the payment of its
debts shall be distributed as provided in Article 6, Section
6.4, Paragraphs 5 and 6 of the National Bylaws.''
Resolution 206. Section 9.3, Financial Records and Reports.
Paragraph 2. The financial statements as required by these
Bylaws must be audited by an independent public accountant if
the gross annual income, excluding membership per capita,
exceeds $300,000 from all sources.
Resolution Number 207. Section 10.2, Financial Records;
Officer Reports--Women's Auxiliary and NOTR.
Paragraph 3. The financial statements as required by these
Bylaws must be audited by an independent public accountant if
the gross annual income, excluding membership per capita,
exceeds $300,000 from all sources.
Resolution Number 208. Section 10.3, Limitation of Powers.
Paragraph 2. Each auxiliary and its subordinate units shall
include the following provision in its bylaws unless prohibited
by the charitable trust laws of its particular state:
``This [type of unit] recognizes the national organization
known as Disabled American Veterans, incorporated by Act of
Congress, and affirms its allegiance and subordination to the
national organization, its Constitution, Bylaws and all rules,
mandates and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto. Upon
dissolution of the [type of unit], the assets remaining after
the payment of its debts shall be distributed as provided in
Article 6, Section 6.4, Paragraphs 5 and 6 of the National
Bylaws.''
Resolution Number 209. Section 11.5, Membership Dues.
Paragraph 1. Membership dues shall be $20, and shall be for
the membership year or any part thereof. The membership year
starts July 1 and ends the following June 30th. All membership
dues will be applied toward becoming a member for life and will
be deposited directly in the individual's membership account as
established under Paragraph 2 below. Once the appropriate full
membership amount has been paid into the member's account, he
or she will no longer be required to pay dues.
Paragraph 2. Those eligible who have not attained the age of
41 before July 1 of the current year may become a member for
life upon payment of $150. Those who are between the ages of 41
and 60, upon payment of $125; those who are between the ages of
61 and 70, upon payment of $100; and those who have attained
the age of 71 or over, upon payment of $75.
Section 11.7, Duration of Membership.
All memberships will extend for three full membership
years from the date of the most recent payment, or (if
and when paid in full) throughout the member's
lifetime. If membership is paid in installments,
payment notices will be sent to the member as a
reminder. However, the member may pay the balance, or
any part thereof, at any time. Distribution under
Section 11.8 will only occur when there are sufficient
funds in the member's account. If no payment is made
during three full membership years, he or she is not
thereafter a member. He or she may reinstate their
membership at any time by initiating additional
payments. Such payments will be applied to the previous
balance and be counted toward a fully paid membership.
Resolution Number 210. Section 11.10, Multiple Memberships.
No member shall hold membership simultaneously in more than
one chapter within the same state unless such other chapter is
composed exclusively of blind veterans or amputee veterans.
Resolution Number 211. Article 12, National Employees.
Section 12.1, Employment Policy.
Paragraph 2. No paid employee of the national organization,
hereafter referred to as ``the employer'', who is a member of
the DAV or its Women's Auxiliary and who has been so employed
continuously for a period of five years, shall be discharged
except for cause.
12.2, Procedure.
Paragraph 1. An employee described in Section 12.1,
Paragraph 2 of these Bylaws may, within 31 days of
receiving from the national adjutant a written notice
of discharge, make written demand upon the national
adjutant for a hearing before a Hearing Board, as
herein provided.
Paragraph 10. Upon conclusion of the hearing, the
Hearing Board, by a majority vote, shall, after
deliberation, render a decision either that the former
employee's discharge be upheld or that he be reinstated
with all pay and benefits retroactive to the date of
his termination. The decision of the Hearing Board
shall be final for all purposes and shall constitute a
binding arbitration, which the parties shall
acknowledge by executing an appropriate agreement in
advance of the hearing.
Resolution Number 212. Section 14.4, Depositories.
The National Finance Committee shall, by regulation,
designate one or more depositories for all revenue of this
organization.
Resolution Number 213. Section 14.5, National Revenue;
Deposit and Investment.
Paragraph 1. All monies received in payment for membership
shall be deposited in a separate account in one of these
depositories and all membership monies and securities shall be
kept separate from the general funds of the organization,
subject only to withdrawals to carry out the Life Membership
Program. The National Finance Committee, with the concurrence
of a two-thirds majority of the National Executive Committee,
shall authorize the investment and reinvestment of such
portions of the Life membership Fund as it may determine to be
in the best interests of the membership program.
Paragraph 3. The National Finance Committee shall provide in
its regulations that access to any safety deposit box can be
had only by the national adjutant and/or national comptroller
in company with one additional bonded employee designated by
the National Finance Committee. Disbursement of membership
monies from the checking account of the Life membership Fund
shall be made upon life membership checks bearing the
signatures of the national adjutant and national comptroller.
Resolution Number 214 is Section 15.3, For Chapters,
Women's Auxiliaries and NOTR. It's Paragraph 1.
The revenue of chapters, women's auxiliary units and
subordinate units of the NOTR shall be derived from dues,
contributions and such other sources as maybe approved by the
state department within which the same is located. Where no
commissions are to be paid, and solicitation of funds shall be
only by personal contact of members, or friends of members, no
prior approval shall be required for a fund-raising project
where the gross receipts will be less than $5,000, provided,
however, that advance written notice of 30 days to the state
department shall be required on all such fund-raising projects.
(Such fund-raising must be in compliance with federal, state
and local laws.) All monies received by local chapters on fund-
raising activities, except as may lawfully be required to be
paid to the state department having jurisdiction over such
chapters, shall be retained by such chapter. If there is no
state department, approval must be obtained from the National
Executive Committee.
Resolution Number 215. Section 15.4, Women's Auxiliary
National Organization.
Paragraph 2. No state department of the DAV women's auxiliary
shall conduct any fund-raising project without the prior
consent of the DAV state department and the DAV National
Executive Committee.
Paragraph 4. If any dugout or other subordinate unit of the
National Order of Trench Rats, or if any local unit or other
subordinate unit of the DAV women's auxiliary desires to hold
any fund-raising drive or fund-raising activity in the
territory of more than one chapter, such subordinate unit,
before asking for the required approval, shall give written
notice of its intention to ask such approval, with reasonably
detailed information about the proposed drive or activity, to
all chapters within such territory not less than two weeks
before seeking approval, and all such chapters shall have the
right to protest promptly to the state department or to the
National Executive Committee, whichever may have the power of
approval as set out above.
Section 15.5, National Order of Trench Rats.
The national organization of the National Order of Trench
Rats shall not conduct any fund-raising project or fund-raising
activity without the prior consent of the National Executive
Committee.
Resolution Number 216. Section 15.7, Supervision and
Enforcement.
Paragraph 2. Without limiting the remedies elsewhere provided
in these Bylaws, the national commander may, in his sole
discretion, direct an audit of the books and records of any
such subordinate unit. The national organization, an
independent accountant, or a certified public accountant shall
conduct such audit. The expense of such audit shall be borne by
the subordinate unit.
Paragraph 3. Each subordinate unit subject to the provisions
hereof shall make available to the national commander or his
designee all books and records for inspection at any reasonable
time at its principal headquarters.
Paragraph 4. Each subordinate unit subject to the provisions
hereof shall hold the national organization harmless from any
claims arising from approval granted or withheld by any
governing body hereunder, and the approval of such body is
specifically limited to the project submitted as a means of
fund-raising and may not be construed so as to make the
approving body a party to any contract or obligation arising
out of the project.
Paragraph 5. The national commander, acting pursuant to
Paragraph 2 above, in his sole discretion may order any
subordinate unit subject to the provisions hereof to cease and
desist from any fund-raising project deemed by him not to be in
the best interest of the Disabled American Veterans.
Paragraph 6. This section shall be applicable to, and shall
be incorporated by reference into, all contracts entered into
pursuant to this Article. It shall be applicable to all parties
to such contracts. If projects are conducted without written
contracts but nevertheless pursuant to authority granted under
this Article, the rights, duties and obligations of the
subordinate unit and all parties thereto shall also be subject
to the provisions of this section.
Resolution Number 217. Section 17.1, Approval Required.
``This corporation recognizes the national organization known
as Disabled American Veterans, incorporated by Act of Congress,
and affirms is allegiance and subordination to the national
organization, its Constitution, Bylaws and all rules, mandates
and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto. Upon dissolution
of the corporation, the assets remaining after the payment of
its debts shall be distributed as provided in Article 6,
Section 6.4, Paragraphs 5 and 6 of the National Bylaws.''
Resolution Number 218. This is Article 18, Accumulation of
Funds. Section 18.1, Definition of Terms.
Paragraph 1. The ``funds'' referred to in this Article are
the liquid assets of subordinate units.
Paragraph 2. ``Service purposes'' are budgetary projects
recognized as service under these Bylaws and regulations
promulgated pursuant thereto. Section 18.2 Restriction on
Accumulation.
Subordinate units may not accumulate funds, whether for
service purposes or otherwise, in excess of twice the expenses
of their last fiscal year. Section 18.3, Expenditure of Excess
Funds.
Paragraph 1. Subordinate units whose accumulated funds exceed
the amount referred to in Section 18.2 above must comply with
this Article by expending such excess within a reasonable time.
Paragraph 2. The expenditure of funds by subordinate units to
accomplish compliance with this Article must be for service
purposes.
Resolution Number 254. Section 19.1, Corporate
Organization; Dissolution; Nomenclature--this is a housekeeping
change, and we're just renumbering the sections: 19.1; 19.2,
Use of Members' Names; Section 19.3, Rules of Order; Section
19.4, Certificate of Merit; Section 19.5, Amendments of Bylaws;
Section 19.6, Captions; and Section 19.7, Definitions and
Interpretation.
That completes the resolutions, Comrade Commander.
Commander McMasters. Thank you, Mr. Daley. Appreciate your
hard work.
Mr. Daley. Comrade Commander, I'd like to read three
resolutions that were rejected by the Constitution and Bylaws
Committee. I'm just going to read the numbers of the
resolutions.
Commander McMasters. Okay.
Mr. Daley. These resolutions were rejected by the committee
this morning: Resolution Number 66, Resolution Number 83, and
Resolution Number 81.
Comrade Commander, this completes the report of the
Committee on Constitution and Bylaws, and the first reading of
recommended changes to the Constitution and Bylaws.
Commander McMasters. Thank you.
Ladies and gentlemen, please rise and I will ask Chaplain
Wilkie to lead us in a closing prayer.
Chaplain Wilkie. Let us pray. We thank You, Father, for all
the information we've received today. It seemed a little
overwhelming. But with Your help as we go now to refreshment
and sleep, we know we'll come back tomorrow with our minds
clear that we may be able to do those things which are pleasing
in Thy sight. Amen.
Commander McMasters. The convention stands in recess until
9:00 o'clock tomorrow morning.
[Whereupon, the meeting recessed at 4:00 o'clock p.m., July
29, 1996.]
THIRD BUSINESS SESSION
July 30, 1996
The Third Business Session of the 75th National Convention
of the Disabled American Veterans convened in the Grand
Ballroom of the New Orleans Hilton Riverside, New Orleans,
Louisiana, Tuesday morning, July 30, 1996, and was called to
order at 9:00 o'clock a.m. by Commander Thomas A. McMasters
III.
Commander Thomas A. McMasters III. The convention will
please come to order.
Would you please join me in the Pledge of Allegiance to the
flag of our country?
[Pledge of Allegiance.]
Commander McMasters. Chaplain Wilkie, will you please lead
us in prayer?
Chaplain Wilkie. Before we pray again this morning, I ask
you to share with me again a moment of silence for all of those
who could not be here. I've been made aware of others who have
become ill during our convention and others who have heard of
illness back home. Let's lift all of these before God in our
thoughts and in our prayers in a moment of silence.
[Moment of silence.]
Chaplain Wilkie. Once again, O God, we come before You to
thank You for the events of last evening. What a fun time we
had! What an opportunity we had of fellowship, and what a
refreshment of sleep You have allowed to us, so that our minds
and our bodies might be ready for the events and the tasks of
this day.
Again, I ask Your Divine wisdom, influence and strength to
surround our commander that he may lead us in such fashion that
the decisions made this day on behalf of disabled American
veterans and their families will be that which will be
beneficial to them and pleasing in Thy sight. Amen.
Commander McMasters. Please be seated.
In order for a delegate to be heard at this convention, he
must be recognized by the Chair. Only those delegates at a
microphone will be recognized. Upon being so recognized, the
delegate must state his name, chapter number and the state he
represents.
At this time, we'll call on the Credentials Committee for
their report.
Mr. Barnett. I'm going to do a little better this morning.
Can you hear me this time? All right. The Credentials Committee
met this morning in the Jasperwood Room at the New Orleans
Hilton Riverside. The roll call showed 1,344 delegates and 50
alternates. This is a partial report for informational purposes
only and reflects the registration at the close of registration
at 4:00 o'clock, July 29th, 1996.
At the present time, we have 584 chapters, 50 departments,
27 national officers, 10 past national commanders, for a total
of 1,344 delegates and 50 alternates, and a total vote of
10,698.
This completes the partial report of the Credentials
Committee, Commander, Thank you.
Commander McMasters. Will you please join me in welcoming
Imperial Golden Rodent Alfred W. Nowak, Imperial Red-Eyed
Gnawer John Engwiller, and the Imperial Council of the National
Order of Trench Rats.
Mr. John D. Engwiller, Sr. Good morning. I guess we're in
New Orleans. If you'd asked me last night, I wouldn't have been
able to tell you. For the purpose of a short introduction from
our Imperial Golden Rodent Al Nowak.
Mr. Alfred W. Nowak. Greetings from the National Order of
Trench Rats, and Welcome to the Year of the Rat. (Applause) It
may be the Chinese Year of the Rat, but we are rats also.
Our purpose being here today is to welcome you all as
friends of the National Order of Trench Rats as we are friends
of the Disabled American Veterans. We must first be Disabled
American Veterans before we can be Trench Rats.
The Trench Rats originally were organized back in 1924 by a
group of disabled veterans who were packed away in an obscure
hospital back in the hills of California. Having nothing to do,
they got together and decided to form an organization. They
decided on the National Order of Trench Rats, which reverts
back to the troops who were in the rat-infested trenches, and
thereby the name became effective.
I have traveled throughout this country, but I do not
intend to give you a travelogue today. Those who have seen me,
know where I've been.
And now without further ado, I would like to introduce our
Imperial Red-Eyed Gnawer for the purposes of introducing our
royal family. Imperial Red-Eyed Gnawer John Engwiller.
Mr. Engwiller. You can applaud. You can applaud. [Booing]
Thank you. Okay.
We have a few gifts here that we'd like to pass out. This
is our Year of the Rat hat with the Year of the Rat pin. The
Imperial Golden Rodent would like to present one to National
Adjutant Art Wilson, our National Commander Tom McMasters, our
National Executive Director in Washington Dave Gorman, and our
National Executive Director Rich Patterson. If somebody would
take these to those gentlemen.
From all over the United States--I've already introduced
him, but he's from New York, Imperial Golden Rodent Al Nowak;
our Imperial Silver Rodent Curt Guiglaar from Michigan; our
Imperial Turquoise Rodent from Florida, Harry Warburton; our
Imperial Bubonic Plague from California, Larry Polzin; our
Imperial Black Plague from Oklahoma, Jimmie Foster; Imperial
Iron Claw from Pennsylvania, James Turner; our Imperial Hole-y
Rodent, Dave Oglesby; Imperial Red-Eyed Gnawer, that's me.
That's the one you're all happy to see. Thank you. Imperial
Bench Rat, the big bench rat, Vinny Reed.
Our Imperial Executive Rodent Richard Stentiford; Imperial
Executive Rodent Vernon Christian; Imperial Executive Rodent
William Phillips; Imperial Executive Rodent George Ford, Sr.;
from Florida, Imperial Executive Rodent Albert Sorrentino;
Imperial Executive Rat Frank Cummings; Imperial Executive Rat
John Ferguson; Imperial Executive Rat Charles Sirhal; Imperial
Executive Rodent Newland Crutcher; Imperial Executive Rodent
Harry Mulligan; Imperial Executive Rodent Robert Brown;
Imperial Executive Rodent Charles Johns; Imperial Executive
Rodent Joel Devenish; Imperial Executive Rodent McKinley
Norman; Imperial Executive Rodent Henry Reeding, III; Imperial
Executive Rodent Frank Webb; Imperial Executive Rodent Chesley
Rutledge.
Now, our elite, our Imperial Rodents: Paul Bailey; Imperial
Rodent Fred Sutton; Imperial Rodent Ernest Balcom; Imperial
Rodent George Zoscsak; Imperial Rodent Oswald Pederson;
Imperial Rodent Vinny Reed; Imperial Rodent Johnny Dilaurenzio;
Imperial Rodent Sam Vigil.
I want to thank you for the opportunity to come before you.
As you know, we're the fun group. It's always a pleasure. And
this year on Thursday morning, we will present some money to
the service organization, and we will tell you then what we've
done for this year. To do it now would only be repeating it on
Thursday.
Again, we dedicate ourselves for what we were chartered
for, to aid and assist the disabled American veterans. Thank
you. [Applause.]
Commander McMasters. Thank you, Imperial Rodent Nowak, for
that awesome display.
At this time, we're going to call on the Reverend Oscar
Wilkie.
Chaplain Wilkie. After a display like that, we may be in
need of a chaplain, I'm not sure. [Laughter.]
Once again, I have the very distinct honor and privilege of
coming to you to represent the Chapel of Four Chaplains. Many
of you are aware of the Chapel of Four Chaplains. It's an
organization that was established back a long time ago. It's
had its offices in Valley Forge.
But on February 2nd, 1943, the USAT Dorchester was sailing
the icy waters around Greenland with 902 men aboard. A U-boat
spotted the troopship and fired torpedoes, five of which hit
directly below the water line, and the ship began to sink. In
27 minutes, the ship was under water. There were 902 men aboard
that ship; 672 of them died, and 230 survived.
Among those that survived, four of them at least were young
men who were given an opportunity for life by four chaplains
that were aboard that ill-fated ship: Lieutenant Alexander B.
Good, a Jewish rabbi; Lieutenant Clark V. Polling of the Dutch
Reformed Church; Lieutenant John P. Washington, a Roman
Catholic priest; and Lieutenant George L. Fox, a Methodist
minister. Those were the four chaplains aboard the USAT
Dorchester on that fateful morning.
As the chaplains helped the men to board lifeboats, as the
very last ones were about to get aboard a lifeboat and they had
run out of lifejackets, these our chaplains took their own
jackets off, gave them to young men who had none, and as the
ship went down, those who survived saw them standing on the
deck, arms linked, giving their last measure of devotion so
that others might live.
In order to commemorate that act of selfless devotion, the
Chapel of Four Chaplains has created an award that it gives to
people who do acts of volunteerism, who do things that promote
and promulgate brotherhood amongst all people, and sacrifice,
really, of their own time and effort for the good of Americans
of every age, every station in life. This Legion of Honor
Program is one of the most prestigious awards that is given.
It is my high honor to represent them this morning and come
to recognize and to pay tribute to one of our own who meets all
of these requirements very well. Our own commander, Tom
McMasters, has been chosen to receive the Medal of Honor Award.
Commander McMasters, if you would come, it is my honor to
present you this medal and this plaque with reads:
This Legion of Honor bronze medallion is presented to Thomas
A. McMasters III, National Commander of Disabled American
Veterans, 1995-96, by the Chapel of Four Chaplains, Valley
Forge, Pennsylvania, in recognition of outstanding service to
people, all people, regardless of race or faith. This award
symbolizes for all Americans and for all time the unity of this
nation, founded upon the fatherhood of one God.
It's an honor, sir, to present this to you on behalf of the
Chapel. [Applause.]
Commander McMasters. Thank you very much. Thank you,
Chaplain Wilkie, for this extraordinary honor.
At this time, I'm going to call on the Finance and Dues
Committee for their report.
2nd Junior Vice-Commander William D. Wiggins. Thank you,
Commander. Comrade Commander and delegates to this 75th Annual
Convention of the DAV: The National Convention Committee on
Finance and Dues was called to order for its first business
session on July the 29th, 1996 by the committee advisor, Earl
Dean Walker.
The first order of business was the election of a
convention committee chairman. William D. Wiggins and William
D. Brzezinski were nominated for chairman. William D. Wiggins
was elected chairman. The next order of business was the
nomination and election of a secretary. Edward S. Lastowski was
nominated and elected secretary of the committee.
There were no resolutions submitted for consideration by
the Committee on Finance and Dues this year.
The committee then reviewed the proposed 1997 budget with
the committee advisors, Earl Dean Walker and Richard Patterson,
with the assistance of Comptroller Anita F. Blum. The proposed
1997 budget was referred to the National Convention Committee
on Finance and Dues by the National Finance Committee with a
recommendation for adoption. Following completion of the
committee's review, the committee voted unanimously to
recommend to the national convention adoption of the proposed
1997 budget. The committee then expressed its thanks to
Committee Advisors Earl Dean Walker and Richard E. Patterson,
who were aided by Comptroller Anita Blum, not their assistance
in performing the work of this important committee.
Having no further business, the committee adjourned at 8:45
a.m.
At this time, I'd personally like to thank the members that
served with me on this committee. Their help and assistance and
their efforts made my job a much easier one.
Comrade Commander, this completes the report of the
Convention Committee on Finance and Dues, and I hereby move for
the adoption of the report and ask that the committee be
discharged with the thanks of the convention.
Commander McMasters. Thank you, Bill. The motion has been
made. Is there support? Is there support for the motion? Mike
3.
Mr. John C. McCarthy. John McCarthy, delegate, Number 4,
Florida, seconds the motion.
Commander McMasters. Thank you, We have a motion and a
support. Are we ready for the question? You're ready for the
question? All in favor, signify by Aye; opposed. It's carried.
2nd Junior Vice-Commander Wiggins. Thank you, Commander.
Commander McMasters. Thank you, Bill.
I am going to call on the president of the DAV National
Service Foundation, Richard J. Cosgriff, for a report.
Mr. Richard Cosgriff. Thank you, Commander. This is the
report of the National Service Foundation to the 75th National
Convention of the Disabled American Veterans being held in New
Orleans. I'd like at this time to present this report.
National Commander McMasters, National Adjutant Wilson,
national officers, delegates and guests all: I'm pleased to
make the annual report of the DAV National Service Foundation
and its Perpetual Rehabilitation Fund. The Foundation was
established to ensure the sound future of the service program
of the Disabled American Veterans. We strive to make sure that
the DAV remains the foremost source of assistance to our
disabled service-connected veterans, their families and their
survivors.
As the Foundation's president, I was assisted during the
1995-96 year by our distinguished board members: the national
commander, Tom McMasters; the Foundation's vice-president,
National Adjutant Art Wilson; Secretary-Treasurer Bill Leach;
Directors Bonnie Maile and Dick Wannemacher, and the National
Finance Committee chairman, Earl Walker. I'd like to recognize
Gary Burns from Maine, who has been elected to serve a two-year
term beginning in 1996-97.
And we'd like to offer our gratitude and thanks to Dick
Wannemacher for his many years of service on the board. I'd
also like to offer our gratitude to Charitable Programs
Director Nancy O'Brien and her staff in Cincinnati for their
tremendous help and invaluable service to the Foundation.
We would also like to thank Tom Keller for his timely
articles that he includes in the DAV National Magazine. The
response of contributions from you, the members, is always
very, very rewarding. Again thanks, Tom, for those articles.
As measured by our consistent trend of growth, we feel
great satisfaction and encouragement as we look toward the
future. This year we exceeded our goals, reporting assets with
a market value of $12,827,505. It is indeed a source of comfort
for all of us to know that this sizable amount is there. If the
national organization's income ever falls off at any time in
the future, our Foundation will be there to assist the programs
of service to you, the disabled veterans.
Today, thankfully, we don't face that problem After three
years of strong financial growth, the national organization is
expanding its services. Yet we never know when the tide will
turn, as it has at different points in our history, and
significant help from the Foundation will be needed once again.
Even today, we're using the earnings from our Perpetual
Rehabilitation Fund to provide furniture and office equipment
for our national service offices. We maintain a fund for
medical studies to help establish expert medical testimony in
support of special claims by our national service offices, and
we purchase medical and legal textbooks for the national
service offices throughout the country.
The Foundation does not engage in public solicitation,
relying instead on you, the members for our support. DAV and
Auxiliary leaders at every level have earned our deep
appreciation. Individual chapters and Auxiliary units, our
departments and the Trench Rats all play a vital role in our
income. From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you.
And during the past year, we reconginzed the foremost donor
through 150 awards, including; Certificates of Commitment to 25
chapters and three Auxiliary units that contributed $1 for each
member in their ranks; Certificates of Commitment to 14
departments that gave $10 for each of their chapters; 89
Commendation Plaques for those whose total donations topped
$1,000 to one fund; and 19 donors were recognized on the Grand
Memorial Honor Roll Plaque at Washington, D.C. Headquarters for
contributions in excess of $5,000.
In the year ended December 31st, 1995, DAV national service
officers were responsible for donations of $384,620, an
increase of nearly $65,000 over the previous year, and we
certainly appreciate what all the national service offices do.
At this time, I'd like to call on Ken Wolfe. Ken is going
to assist us--of course, as you know, he's the rehab. director,
and it's through his efforts in encouraging the service
officers throughout the country to support our program. So I'll
ask Ken to present the trophies to the winners:
Division I, from Togus, Maine, Gary Burns. Gary's the
supervisor. [Applause.]
While Gary's getting here, under Division II, Syracuse, New
York, Harry Schultz, the supervisor. [Applause.]
Mr. Gary Burns. Thank you. I'd just like to say thanks to
the office staff up there, particular NSO Bruce Kaplan; Cathty
Hartnett, the secretary; the Department of Maine that allows us
some part-time help in the office that they fund, and allows us
to work on such things as this in membership with that help;
and particularly the membership and the people in Maine who
plan on keeping this in Maine until at least at the time I
retire.
So thank you, people. And that's five or six years at
least. [Applaused.]
Mr. Cosgriff. Harry Schultz from Syracuse, New York.
Mr. Harry Schultz: I'd like to just say thank you to Paul
Breuer, because Paul was very instrumental in working towards
getting this; and also to my secretary, Ann Stefanini who,
without her, none of it would be possible. Thank you.
[Applause.]
Mr. Cosgriff. Division III, from Buffalo, New York, Al
Giordano, supervisor.
Mr. Al Giordano. I'd like to thank the entire staff of the
Buffalo, New York office, including Sam Sabino, who's now down
in Florida, for all the effort they put into winning this
award. Thank you. [Applause.]
Mr. Cosgriff. Division IV, from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,
Jim Wyatt, supervisor.
Mr. Jim Wyatt. I'd just like to thank all the staff in the
Philadelphia Regional Office, and particularly all the great
Philadelphia Regional Office, and particularly all the great
residents of the State of Pennsylvania. And we'll be back.
Thank you. [Applause.]
Mr. Cosgriff. And last, Division V, from New York City,
Mark Winn, supervisor.
Mr. Mark Winn. I also would like to express my appreciation
to my staff. It's a reflection of the hard work and dedication
they do for our veterans in the New York area. Thank you.
[Applause.]
Mr. Cosgriff. Mark said he's going to be back again next
year, and for us to remember Nick Cachianes from New York City.
This would have never happened if Nick was still alive, I can
assure you. Nick kept all the money in his office. [Laughter.]
Please join me in thanking these officers and various
officers throughout the country for their support. [Applause.]
All the funds remain invested with the Trust Division of
the Cincinnati's Fifth-Third Bank. Our annual audit for the
year ending December 31st was done by the accounting firm of
Deloitte & Touche, and will be incorporated in the convention
official record. As a charitable organization, we report to the
IRS annually.
Our National Order of Trench Rats Fund shows a balance of
$184,793. We more or less administer this trust for the Trench
Rats. And I'd like at this time to turn over to Commander
McMasters a check for $10,829, which is the interest earned on
this account during the past year. Commander. [Applause.]
Commander McMasters. Thank you. The Service Foundations's
doing an excellent job.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much. That was short and
brief.
This gift from the Trench Rats, this interest, goes towards
the Legislative Program of the Disabled American Veterans.
In addition, the Foundation has had a good year during the
past with its investments, and are delighted to announce our
pledge of $500,000 out of these earnings of the past year, to
be used as seed funding for the new Colorado Trust, which has
been established within the Foundation.
This new program offers tremendous potential for the
chapter and the department service programs throughout the
country, and the Foundation is honored to play a prominent role
in this growth. We are only too pleased to establish this new
fund, the Colorado Trust, in addition to our Perpetual
Rehabilitation Fund, which will continue in its current
function.
As Art Wilson stated yesterday, materials will be sent to
all chapters and departments following this convention, and I
urge those who need to spend down their accumulated resources
to give this program your fullest support.
Mr. Commander, this concludes my report, and as is
traditional, the Foundation stands ready to accept
contributions from the convention floor from the members and
the chapters and the departments. And these donations will be
placed in the Perpetual Rehabilitation or the Trench Rats Fund,
as so designated.
Thank you very much. [Applause.]
Member. On behalf of Chapter 2, San Diego, California, and
Richard's own chapter, I'd like to donate $2500 for the
National Service Foundation. Thank you.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much, Dale.
Mr. Don J. Pouliot. Don Pouliot. Dick's chapter, Chapter 2,
San Diego, a personal check for a hundred dollars.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you, Don.
Mr. Michael W. Tempesta. Mike Tempesta, Fresno, California.
On behalf of our chapter, there's a check here for $2500, Dick.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much.
Member. Old Adobe Chapter 117, California, $200.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you.
2nd Junior Vice-Commander Wiggins. Bill Wiggins, Chapter 19
of Danville, Virginia, is proud to present $1500 in honor of
David Tannenbaum, the executive director of the Department of
Virginia, for his outstanding work.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you.
4th Junior Vice-Commander Michael E. Dobmeier. Mike
Dobmeier. Thanks for a great year; $100.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you sir.
Mr. Ralph G. Reinagel. Ralph Reinagel, Chapter 70, Memphis,
Tennessee, proudly presents this check of $15,000.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much, sir. This check was for
$15,000. Thank you.
Mr. Edward D. Rushton. Ed Rushton, commander, DAV Post 22,
Portsmouth, Virginia, $500.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much, sir
Mr. John F. McCoy. John McCoy, Chapter 19, California,
$100.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you, John.
Mr. John T. Freetly. John Freetly, commander, Department of
Minnesota, would like to present this check for the Perpetual
Rehab. Fund, $10,000.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much, John. This where
originally our support started, back in Minnesota. Thank you
very much, John.
Mr. Sam McGarrity. On behalf of the Department of
Mississippi, we are proud to present a thousand dollar check.
And I'm Sam McGarrity.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much.
Commander McMasters. Please, could we have your attention.
Thank you.
Ms. June R. Springer. Good morning. June Springer,
commander, Department of Virginia. I'm proud to present a
$1,000 check.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much.
Mr. David L. Tannenbaum. Dave Tannenbaum, Chapter 15,
Prince William County, Manassas, Virginia, donates $200.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much.
Member. Shreveport-Bossier Chapter, Shreveport, Louisiana,
the state that believes in having a good time, $2,000.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much, sir.
Member. Department of Massachusetts, $1,000.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you sir.
Mr. Bob Williams. Bob Williams from the National Blind
Chapter, I'd like to donate a hundred dollars for those members
who passed away this year.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much, sir. Thank you.
Mr. William L. Turner. Bill Turner, commander, DAV Chapter
1, St. Louis, Missouri, would like to present $1,000.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much.
Member. On behalf of the National Guild of Attorneys in
Fact, we have a check for $1500 in honor of our founding
member, Jack Feighner. This was raised through our first Annual
Golf Tournament. I'd like to thank the Departments of Florida
and Rhode Island.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much.
Mr. Christopher. Richard Christopher, Chapter 115, Saugus,
Mass., would like to make a personal donation of $300.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much.
Member. Commander of Chapter 6, Louisville, Kentucky. I
present you with $300.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much, sir.
Member. California, Tri-Cities Chapter 95, $200.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you.
Mr. Joseph J. Maldet. Joe Maldet from Chapter 103, H. F.
Grote, $100.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you, sir.
Mr. Hugh Ferguson. Hugh Ferguson, commander, Department of
Maryland, would like to present $1,000.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much.
Mr. Charles M. Turik. Charles Turik, Chapter 67,
Pennsylvania, $1,000.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much.
Member. On behalf of Tamarac, Florida Chapter 73, $100.
Mr. Cosgriff. Appreciate it very much. Thank you.
Mr. Robert V. Connor. Bob Connor, St. Paul Chapter 2,
Minnesota. At our 14th District meeting last Saturday, as we do
every year, we took up a collection for the Foundation, and I
present you $104 in memory of Past National Service Officer
Hiram Fuller.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you.
Member. As commander of Chapter 1, Minneapolis, Minnesota,
I present this check to the Perpetual Rehabilitation Fund for
$5,498, which represents a dollar per member.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much, sir.
Member. Chapter 1, Sioux Falls, South Dakota, $250;
Department of South Dakota, $500.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you, sir.
Mr. Michael D. Giles. Mike Giles, Chapter 14, Salem,
Virginia, in memory of Hugh Huggins, $400.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you, sir.
Mr. Phillip W. Turpin. Bill Turpin, Chapter 3, from good
old Roanoke, Virginia, in honor of our national service
officers, would like to present you a check for a thousand
dollars. Thank you.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much.
Member. Chapter 16, Prescott, Arizona, a check for $3,000.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much.
NEC 15th District Francis E. McLaskey. Francis McLaskey,
Department of Iowa. I'd like to present a check for $200 in
memory of James Glouser and in honor of Clair Galloway.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you.
Mr. E. Espinosa-Labrador. From the beautiful island of
Puerto Rico, Espinosa, department commander, a donation; and
from Chapter Number 1, San Juan, Puerto Rico, another donation.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you, sir. That's a total of $300.
Mr. George Passwater. George Passwater, Department of
Florida, donating a hundred dollars in honor of Harry
Warburton, past state commander.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much, sir.
Mr. Victor J. Lampe. Vic Lampe, commander of Cincinnati
Chapter Number 1, the mother chapter of this, the Disabled
American Veterans, gives you a thousand dollars.
Plus, Commander, I'd like to say that in May, our chapter
gave the Vine Street Medical Center $22,500 to upgrade their
television and bring Channel Television in, cable, so that the
veterans there could get something beside just the three
programs they get.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much. Thank you, sir.
Mr. Bob Baley. Bob Baley, department commander of the great
State of Arkansas, proudly presents you with a check for
$1,000.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much, sir.
Mr. James V. Mars. James Mars, Chapter 11, Jackson,
Mississippi, in the name of our NSO, Gerald Humphries, I'd like
to present $1,000.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you, sir.
Mr. Gerald A. Jones. Gerald Jones, department commander
from North Carolina, proudly presents $1,000 to the Service
Foundation.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you, sir.
Mr. Irvin L. Brabant.. Irv Brabant, senior vice-commander,
State Department of Missouri, $500.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you, sir.
Mr. Shirley R Turner. Shirley Turner, commander, Chapter
Number 2, Missouri, $25,000.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much, sir.
Mr. James T. Ruppenthal. Jim Ruppenthal, national service
officer from Houston, Texas, a hundred dollar personal check in
memory of Ken Smith, the late supervisor of our Waco office.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you.
Mr. David H. Wilson. David Wilson, department commander,
State of New York, $1,000.
Mr. Cosgriff. Commander, thank you.
Mr. Harry Mannine. Harry Mannine, department commander of
Vermont, $1,000.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you, commander.
Member. Chapter 15 of the Department of Vermont, $300 in
memory of Ken Macey.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you, sir.
Mr. Burton E. Packard. Burt Packard, Department of New
Hampshire, $500 to the Service Fund.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much, sir.
Mr. Robert C. Freitas. Bob Freitas, Department of Hawaii.
We have a check coming for $500.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you.
Mr. Thomas Caenen. Tom Caenen, department commander,
Nevada. I have four checks to present. Remember, next year your
convention's going to be with us. The first check is $100 from
the Department of Nevada. The second check is $100 in memory of
William Norris, a departed past department commander. Another
$100 check for past department commander in memory of Carl
Thomas; and $100 from Chapter 12, Henderson.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much, sir.
Mr. Ken Kuehnl. Good morning. Ken Kuehnl, department
commander, from the great State of Wisconsin, makes a donation
of $1500.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much, sir.
Member. Chapter 19, West Allis, Wisconsin, gives a $300
check in honor of our NSOs, Clyde Dartey, Phil Kreisa, Tony
Starich and Don Savage.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much.
Mr. Richard E. Marbes. Dick, here's a check for $500 from
the Marbes family for our continued support of the Foundation.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much, Commander. Thank you.
Mr. James Edge. James Edge, department commander for the
State of Kansas. I'd like to present $500 from the department;
also from the State of Kansas, Chapter 4, I'd like to donate
$500.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much.
Member. Chapter 143, Largo, Florida, would like to donate
$600 to the National Service Foundation.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much, dear.
Mr. Rudy Vargas. Rudy Vargas, State of Colorado, proudly
presents a check to you from the Department of Colorado and all
the members, delegates of Colorado sitting right here, for
$10,000.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much.
Mr. Alexander B. Watson. Alex Watson, Chapter 9, St.
Petersburg, Florida, $500.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much, sir.
Mr. Robert T. Reynolds. Robert Reynolds, commander, Chapter
10, Department of Virginia, would like to present a check for
$100.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much, sir.
Mr. Michael J. Harmon. Mike Harmon, Chapter 84, Greater
Daytona Beach Area, would like to donate $1,250 in honor of our
deceased veterans.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you, sir. Thank you very much.
Mr. Joseph Trulio. Good morning. Joe Trulio, Department of
New Jersey, proudly presents a check for $5,000.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much.
Ms. Jerry Worthington. Jerry Worthington, Southern Caucus,
$200.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much.
Mr. William R. Davidson. William Davidson, Robert Flansburg
Chapter 7, Lincoln, Nebraska, $200 in the name of Past
Commander Tom Morrissey.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much, sir.
Mr. Larry A. Polzin. Larry Polzin, department commander
from the State of California, $1,000.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you, Larry.
NEC 16th District Charles Demele. Charles Demele, NEC from
the 16th District and the great State of California, my check
for a hundred dollars, Dick.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much.
Mr. Bobby B. Norman. This is Bobby Norman from Chapter
Number 5, Arkansas. I see the need for our continued service to
our veterans, and I want to make a personal contribution of $50
for it.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much.
Mr. Raymond Solomon. Raymond Solomon, Chapter Number 1,
Baltimore, Maryland, would like to make a pledge of $500. The
check will be forthcoming.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much
Mr. Walter H. Wessing. Walter Wessing, Kansas City,
Missouri, Chapter Number 2, a hundred dollars in memory of Past
National Commander Paul Thompson. Here's a hundred dollars.
Commander, I told you I would get you. Here's a 20. You've
got to match it. Please, would you please do that for me?
There! Now, you give it to him.
Now, Past National Ed Galian, you have to match this, too.
Would you please put that $10 with that there? Would you please
do that?
Judge Advocate Galian. Ed Galian, $100. You match that!
Mr. Wessing. No! And by the way, Commander, I took a
collection up, and I've got a little extra money here. I don't
know how much. But it does there, whatever it is. Great,
Commander! You've done a good job.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you.
Member. On behalf of the Department of Maine, we'd like to
donate $500.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much, sir.
1st Junior Vice-Commander Harry R. McDonald. Harry
McDonald, national 1st junior vice-commander. I want to give
you a check in the amount of $500; $250 in memory of my in-
laws, Fred and Anna Dulla and $250 in memory of my stepfather
and mother, Frank and Esther Lowiselle.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you very much.
I am proud to announce to you that--this is only temporary,
but it's approximately $110,000 has been contributed from the
floor at this particular time. And again I want to say, this
all comes from the membership, from the chapters and from the
departments, and we appreciate it very, very much. We will give
you a final accounting of it as soon as it's all tabulated.
Thank you.
CommanderMcMasters. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
Mr. Cosgriff. Thank you, Commander. [Applause.]
Commander McMasters. I will entertain a motion to accept
the report of the National Service Foundation. Mike 3.
Mr. Clyde E. Dartey. Clyde Dartye, West Allis Number 19,
Wisconsin, so move.
Commander McMasters. Is there support? Mike 1.
Mr. Alfrd Faticoni. Faticoni from Connecticut, past
department commander, second the motion.
Commander McMasters. Thank you. We have a motion and a
second to accept the report of the National Service Foundation.
Are we ready for the question? Ready for the question? All in
favor, signify by Aye; opposed. It's carried.
I'm going to call on the Legislative and Veterans Rights
Committee for their report.
Mr. Richard E. Giese. Good morning, ladies and gentlemen.
The National Convention Committee on Legislation and Veterans
Rights was called to order for its first business session on
July 29th, 1996 by the committee advisor, Richard, Rick
Schultz, assisted by Thomas L. Tomlinson. And Joe Violante
provided much input on the session.
The first order of business was the election of a
convention committee chairman. Dick Giese from Florida was
nominated for chairman. There being no further nominations,
nominations were closed, and Dick Giese was elected chairman.
The next order of business was the nomination and election of a
secretary. Don Pouliot from California was nominated and was
elected as secretary for the committee.
I also want to thank Mr. Tortolano from California who
assisted us in much of the wipe-up paperwork.
I also want to recognize the diligent work and hard work
that was put in by all the members, and rather than run their
names, in the essence of time, I would ask that all of the
delegates and the alternates please stand and please recognize
a job well done. My personal thanks to all of you. [Applause.]
The committee then proceeded to review the resolutions
submitted, and I will now report to you the resolutions
recommended for adoption by this National Convention. For the
purpose of saving time, I will read only the number and a short
resume of or a goal of the particular resolution. If you are
not happy with that and would like the RESOLVED portion read, I
will call upon Don to bring that resolution forward.
As you know, all of these resolutions were adopted by your
elected representatives to this committee, and they were very
thoroughly discussed at length, and the adoption was not just a
rapping of the gavel type situation.
Resolution Number 5 was adopted. The ten-year protection
for service-connected evaluations.
Resolution Number 6. Concurrent receipt of VA disability
compensation and military longevity retirement pay.
Resolution Number 8. Oppose the taxation of VA disability
compensation benefits.
Resolution Number 9. Supporting a change in the payment of
certain accrued benefits upon the death of a beneficiary.
Resolution Number 10. To oppose termination of compensation
to certain mentally incompetent veterans.
Resolution Number 11. To raise the estate level applicable
to certain incompetent and institutional veterans.
Resolution Number 12. Oppose any proposal that would offset
payments of Social Security disability insurance benefits or
any other federal benefit by VA compensation.
Resolution Number 28. Authorize automobile adaptive
equipment eligibility to any veteran who has a service-
connected disability that inhibits the ability to safely
operate a motor vehicle.
Resolution Number 84. A disability compensation increase.
Can't argue with that.
Resolution Number 105. The SMCK award for the loss of
female mammary gland.
Resolution Number 106. To provide a temporary total rating
for a period that an amputee has a new prosthetic device
constructed.
Resolution 121. Oppose permanent rounding-down of the
COLAs.
122. Oppose redefining service connection.
Resolution 124. Remove offset between military
nondisability payments and service-connected disability
compensation.
125. In support of the Court of Veterans Appeals review of
decisions on the basis of clear and unmistakable error.
126. Require the Board of Veterans Appeals compliance with
due process procedures.
127. Oppose broadening of the Board of Veterans Appeals
authority to obtain evidence.
128. Support legislation to preclude inappropriate remands
by the Court of Veterans Appeals.
129. Support legislation to provide for judicial review of
certain decisions involving degree of disability.
153. Oppose subjecting compensations to mean testing.
154. Opposing a freeze in the rates of VA disability
compensation benefits.
157. To provide a realistic increase in the VA's special
adapted housing grant.
185. Revise presumptive period for establishing service
connection for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
219. Supporting legislation to provide service connection
to atomic veterans for all recognized radiogenic diseases.
220. Allow all veterans to recover amounts withheld as tax
on disability severance pay.
221. Exempt benefits paid to wartime service-connected
disabled veterans from the pay-go provisions of the Budget
Enforcement Act.
222. To liberalize criteria for Agent Orange claims.
223. Support appropriate relief for spina bifida in
children of Vietnam veterans.
224. Oppose reduction, taxation or elimination of VA
benefits.
225. Oppose the indexing of VA disability compensation
benefits.
225. Expand POW presumptions.
227. Compensate Persian Gulf veterans suffering from
unknown illness or disease circumstantially linked to their
service in the Persian Gulf.
228. Support change in requirements for temporary total
rating under Paragraph 30.
229. Provide for commencement of payment period for
temporary total ratings for compensation as of the date of
entitling event.
230. To establish 5307, Title 38, U.S. Code, as the sole
means to compel division of VA benefits.
240. Opposing the use of VA-generated savings for purposes
other than restoring VA benefits and services.
232. These are under burial related now. To provide for at
least one open national cemetery in every state.
233. Restore entitlement and increase burial and plot
allowance for survivors of all wartime veterans.
234. Provide headstones or markers for all veterans.
Now under the category of insurance related. Resolution No.
13. To provide an open period to apply for service-disabled
veterans' insurance.
Number 14. Mortgage protection life insurance for 100
percent service-connected veterans.
Number 30. Increase the face value of service-disabled
veterans' insurance.
231. Provide for waiver of premiums for supplemental SDVI.
That's service-disabled veterans' insurance.
Under military related. Resolution No. 91. Opposing the
dissolution of the military commissary system.
241. Award commissary and PX privileges based on a DIC
award.
242. In support of a COLA for military retirees.
243. Extend military commissary and exchange privileges and
space-available air travel to certain service-connected
disabled veterans. Specifically, we're talking about 30 percent
and higher, just to clarify that.
244. Space-available air travel aboard military aircraft
for 100 percent service-connected veterans.
245. Support of military medal to recognize and honor
veterans exposed to ionization radiation during service.
Number 30. Now, this is under education. These are all
education-related resolutions. Number 39. Provide Chapter 35
educational benefits for dependents of veterans rated 80
percent or more service-connected disabled.
Number 161. Eliminate the delimiting date for spouse in the
VA's Chapter 35 Education Program.
Number 235. Eliminate the 12-year delimiting date for use
of vocational rehabilitation benefits.
Now we come under the miscellaneous category. We're getting
toward the end. Number 15. Supporting adequate funding for all
VA programs.
Number 164. Allow for payment of fees, expenses and court
costs under equal access to justice to unsupervised,
nonattorney representation practicing before the U.S. Court of
Veterans Appeals.
Number 236. Expand the Vietnam Era.
Number 237. Oppose any reduction in veterans' programs.
Number 238. Oppose any authorization to use members of the
armed forces for human experimentation.
Number 239. Oppose abolishment of the Committee on Veterans
Affairs.
Number 246. Support legislation to allow veteran service
officers to solicit contributions on Post Office property.
Number 247. Oppose legislation to reduce the number of
judges at the Court of Veterans Appeals.
That, Mr. Chairman, concludes my report, and I respectfully
move that we adopt the same and dismiss the committee with the
thanks of the convention.
[The above-mentioned resolutions follow:]
RESOLUTION NO. 005--LEGISLATIVE
to provide a 10-year protection period for service-connected disability
evaluations
WHEREAS, section 110 of title 38, U.S.C., now provides for the
protection of all disability compensation evaluations that have been
continuously in effect for 20 or more years; and
WHEREAS, permanency should be conceded for disability compensation
ratings which have been in effect for 10 years without change in
evaluation with no further examination scheduled; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports amendment of section 100 of title 38 U.S.C. to
provide that disability evaluations continuously in effect at the same
evaluation rate be protected after a period of 10 years.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 006--LEGISLATIVE
concurrent payments of va disability compensation and military
retirement pay
WHEREAS, ex-service members who are retired from the military on
length of service must waive a portion of their retired pay in order to
receive disability compensation from the Department of Veterans
Affairs; and
WHEREAS, it would be more equitable if the laws and regulations
were changed to provide that in such cases the veteran would be
entitled to receive both benefits concurrently since eligibility was
established and earned under two entirely different sets of enabling
laws and regulations; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation and changed in applicable regulations
which would provide that a veteran who is retired for length of service
and is later adjudicated as having service-connected disabilities, may
receive concurrent benefits from the military department and from the
VA without deduction from either.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 008--LEGISLATIVE
opposing the taxation of va disability compensation benefits
WHEREAS, the Tax Simplification Plan, released by the Department of
the Treasury in November 1984, proposed the federal taxation of VA
disability compensation benefits; and
WHEREAS, in the entire history of the disability compensation
program these benefits have never been subject to taxation at either
the federal, state or local levels; and
WHEREAS, taxation of these benefits would amount to nothing more
than a permanent, enduring reduction in benefits and would demean the
sacrifice and service of our nation's service-connected disabled
veteran population; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, vigorously opposes any proposal that would subject VA
disability compensation benefits to taxation.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 009--LEGISLATIVE
supporting a change in the payment of certain accrued benefits upon
death of a beneficiary
WHEREAS, section 5121 of title 39 U.S.C. sets forth the requirement
for payment of accrued benefits upon death of a beneficiary and limits
accrued benefits to periodic monetary benefits due and unpaid for a
period not to exceed one year; and
WHEREAS, the current appeals process, including a favorable Board
of Veteran's Appeals decision and payment of retroactive benefits can
take considerably longer than one year; and
WHEREAS, the spouse and/or dependent children are part of the
veteran's ``family unit'' and suffer the financial loss incurred during
the appeals process; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation which would provide for payment in full
of all due and unpaid accrued benefits to the spouse or dependent
children.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 010--LEGISLATIVE
opposing the termination of compensation to certain mentally
incompetent veterans
WHEREAS, compensation is paid for physical and mental disabilities
connected to service in our nation's defense; and
WHEREAS, there is nothing inherent in either physical or mental
disability that diminishes the economic effects of either as compared
to the other; and
WHEREAS, veterans with mental disability are as deserving of
compensation as those with physical disability, and should also have
the same opportunities for enjoyment of life, incurring financial
obligations, saving for future security, and creation of estates; and
WHEREAS, proposals to terminate compensation to mentally
incompetent veterans when their estates reach $25,000 and until reduced
to $10,000 unfairly discriminates against veterans merely because the
disease they suffered in defense of our nation is mental in nature; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, opposes discriminatory legislation that would terminate the
compensation of mentally incompetent veterans based on the size of
their estate.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 011--LEGISLATIVE
to raise the estate limit applicable to certain incompetent,
institutionalized veterans
WHEREAS, current law requires the suspension of VA disability
compensation, pension and emergency officer's retirement pay in the
case of mentally incompetent veterans who have neither a spouse or
child and who are being furnished hospital treatment, institutional or
domiciliary care ate U.S. government expense once the estate of such
veterans equals or exceeds the sum of $1,500.00 (not to be continued
until the estate is reduced to $500); and
WHEREAS, this is discriminatory treatment towards this single group
of veterans; and
WHEREAS, this $1,500 estate level has not been adjusted in many
years and conceivably can cause financial hardship to such veterans;
NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation which would provide a realistic upward
adjustment in the present maximum $1,500 estate level that applies to
such mentally incompetent, institutionalized veterans.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 012--LEGISLATIVE
opposing any proposal that would offset payments of social security
disability insurance benefits or any other federal benefit by va
compensation
WHEREAS, there has been consideration given to proposing an offset
of Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits by payments of any
other federal benefit; and
WHEREAS, the adoption of such a measure would reduce the overall
income provided to those service-connected veterans who have a
compensable disability and who also suffer a permanent and total
disability for purposes of Disability Insurance Benefits from the
Social Security Administration; and
WHEREAS, such an offset would work a grave and undue hardship on
all totally disabled service-connected veterans and their families by
drastically reducing their total income; and
WHEREAS, benefits received from the Department of Veterans Affairs
or under military retirement pay and other federal programs have
differing eligibility criteria as compared to the earned payments of
Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, opposes any measure which proposes to offset the payment of
any other federal benefit or earned benefit entitlement by VA
compensation payments made to service-connected disabled veterans.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 013--LEGISLATIVE
to provide an open period to apply for service disabled veterans
insurance (rh)
WHEREAS, service-connected disabled veterans are entitled to apply
for Service Disabled Veterans Insurance (RH) within one year from the
date the VA grants service connection for any disability; and
WHEREAS, many eligible veterans, due to financial difficulties and
problems associated with readjustment to civilian life, did not apply
for this insurance within the one year eligibility period; and
WHEREAS, many of these service-connected disabled veterans are now
prepared and can afford to purchase this insurance but are not able to
purchase comparable insurance coverage in the private sector; and
WHEREAS, precedent has been established to extend previously closed
``eligibility periods'' for certain other VA benefits and services,
including insurance; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, seeks the enactment of legislation that would authorize an
``open period'' for eligible service-connected disabled veterans to
apply for coverage under the Service Disabled Veterans Insurance
Program.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 014--LEGISLATIVE
to extend eligibility for veterans' mortgage life insurance to service-
connected veterans rated permanently and totally disabled
WHEREAS, VA Mortgage Life Insurance is presently available to
veterans entitled to the special adapted housing award under section
2101(a) of title 38 U.S.C.; and
WHEREAS, service-connected veterans rated as permanently and
totally disabled cannot obtain Mortgage Life Insurance through
commercial insurance companies; and
WHEREAS, their widows and dependents must bear an undue hardship
upon the death of such veterans; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, seeks the enactment of legislation which would extend VA
Mortgage Life Insurance to service-connected veterans who are rated as
permanently and totally disabled.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 015
supporting adequate funding for all va programs
WHEREAS, understaffing of VA programs in recent years has hampered
the VA's ability to effectively administer programs intended to benefit
this nation's veterans; and
WHEREAS, continued efforts by the Office of Management and Budget
to reduce the VA budget will lead to further deterioration of all VA
programs; and
WHEREAS, this nation's first concern should be to fulfill its
obligation to those who served in the military services in defense of
the country; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisana, July 28-August
1, 1996, seeks and strongly supports adequate funding for all VA
programs.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 028--LEGISLATIVE
amend provisions regarding eligibility for automobile adaptive
equipment to include any veteran whose service-connected disability
inhibits his/her ability to safely operate a motor vehicle
WHEREAS, title 38, U.S.C. Sec. 3902 and 38 C.F.R. Sec. 17.119(a)
restrict the eligibility for adaptive equipment to those veterans who
qualify for the automobile grant as specified in 38 U.S.C. Sec. 3901;
and
WHEREAS, not all veterans whose service-connected disabilities
prohibit the safe operation of a motor vehicle meet the requirements of
38 U.S.C. Sec. 3901; and
WHEREAS, these service-connected disabled veterans should be
provided the adaptive equipment necessary to safely operate a motor
vehicle; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports the enactment of legislation that would authorize the
Department of Veterans Affairs to provide or assist in providing the
adaptive equipment deemed necessary to any veteran whose service-
connected disability interferes with the safe operation of a motor
vehicle.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 030--LEGISLATIVE
to increase the face value of service disabled veterans insurance (rh)
WHEREAS, certain veterans are eligible for National Service Life
Insurance (NSLI) under section 1922 of title 38 U.S.C.; and
WHEREAS, honorably discharged veterans released from active
military duty on or after April 25, 1951, found by the Department of
Veterans Affairs to be suffering from a disability or disabilities for
which a compensable evaluation would be payable, shall, upon
application, be granted insurance by the United States government under
section 1922(a) of title 38 U.S.C.; and
WHEREAS, this insurance, commonly referred to as RH insurance, is
non-participating with no dividends payable; and
WHEREAS, many of these veterans are uninsurable by private
insurance companies as a result of their service-connected
disabilities; and
WHEREAS, inflation has rapidly increased and diminished the value
of the insurance since the maximum was set at $10,000; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports amendment of title 38 U.S.C. to increase the maximum
amount of insurance coverage available under the Service Disabled
Veterans Insurance (RH).
______
RESOLUTION NO. 039--LEGISLATIVE
educational benefits for dependents of service-connected veterans rated
80 percent or more disabled
WHEREAS, chapter 35 of title 38 U.S.C. extends educational
assistance to the dependents of service-connected veterans who are
evaluated as permanently and totally disabled; and
WHEREAS, there are many service-connected veterans rated 80 percent
and 90 percent disabled, whose dependents cannot afford to attend an
institution of higher learning or pursue a vocational endeavor because
of the reduced earning ability of such veterans; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, seeks the enactment of legislation which would extend
educational assistance under chapter 35 of title 38 U.S.C. to the
dependents of veterans who have a service-connected disability rating
of 80 percent or more.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 084--LEGISLATIVE
disability compensation increase
WHEREAS, it is the historical policy of the Disabled American
Veterans that this nation's first duty to veterans is to provide for
the rehabilitation of its wartime disabled; and
WHEREAS, the percentage ratings for service-connected disabilities
represent, as afar as can be practicably determined, the average
impairment in earnings capacity resulting from such diseases and
injuries in civil occupations; and
WHEREAS, compensation increases should be based on the loss of
earnings capacity; and
WHEREAS, disabled veterans who are unable to work because of
service-connected disabilities should be entitled to compensation
payments commensurate with the after tax earnings of their able-bodied
contemporaries; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports the enactment of legislation to provide a realistic
increase in VA compensation rates to bring the standard of living of
disabled veterans in line with that which they would have enjoyed had
they not suffered their service-connected disabilities.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 091--LEGISLATIVE
opposing the dissolution of the military commissary system
WHEREAS, some members of Congress and other officials have proposed
to phase-out the Military Commissary System; and
WHEREAS, the Commissary System is of vital importance to the
personnel of our Armed Forces; and
WHEREAS, active duty personnel, their dependents, retired military
and disabled veterans who live on fixed incomes should have high
quality food at fair and reasonable prices; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, vigorously opposes any proposal to phase-out the Armed Forces
Commissary System.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 105--LEGISLATIVE
special monthly compensation for loss of female mammary gland
WHEREAS, 38 U.S.C. 1114(k) and 38 C.F.R. 3.350(a) grants special
monthly compensation for loss of one hand, one foot, both buttocks, one
or more creative organs; blindness--one eye having light perception
only, deafness--both ears having the absence of air and bone
conduction; and complete organic aphonia with constant inability to
communicate by speech; and
WHEREAS, there is a significant hormonal interrelationship between
the female mammary glands and the female reproductive system; and
WHEREAS, the female mammary glands can be a necessary postpartum
accessory organ; and
WHEREAS, severe physical disfigurement and complete loss of use
results from the removal of the female mammary gland; and
WHEREAS, major reconstructive surgery or utilization of a
prosthesis is necessary to replace the amputated organ; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation to amend Section 1114(k) of title 38
U.S.C. to add the anatomical loss of a female mammary gland.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 106--LEGISLATIVE
to provide a temporary total rating for the period that an amputee has
a new prosthetic device constructed
WHEREAS, it takes four to six weeks to manufacture a prosthetic
device; and
WHEREAS, many employers will not accept amputee back to his
employment until he has his artificial limb; and
WHEREAS, the veteran who does not have an artificial limb is
incapacitated and unable to perform gainful employment; and
WHEREAS, the 1945 Rating Schedule does not contain any provision to
provide this temporary total rating; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation to amend the 1945 Rating Schedule to
provide a temporary total rating for the period involving the
replacement of a prosthetic device.
RESOLUTION NO. 121--LEGISLATIVE
opposing the permanent rounding down of cost-of-living adjustments in
veterans' benefits
WHEREAS, to maintain the worth of veterans' benefits, they must be
adjusted to keep pace with the rise in the cost-of-living; and
WHEREAS, permanently rounding down the adjusted rates to the next
lower dollar amount will erode the value of these benefits over time
and thus not keep pace with the rise in the cost of living; and
WHEREAS, permanently rounding down veteran's cost-of-living
adjustments unfairly singles out veterans for a disproportionate and
unfair burden in deficit reduction; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, opposes permanent rounding down of cost-of-living adjustments
for veterans' benefits.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 122--LEGISLATIVE
opposing any change that would redefine service-connected disability or
restrict the conditions or circumstances under which it may be
established
WHEREAS, current law authorizes service connection for disabilities
incurred or aggravated during service in the United States Armed Forces
in the line of duty; and
WHEREAS, there are various proposals to limit service connection to
disabilities caused directly by the performance of duty; and
WHEREAS, disability incurred in the line of duty is sometimes not
directly due to a job injury but may be due to less obvious factors
attributable to the Armed Forces environment; and
WHEREAS, proof of a causal relationship may often be difficult or
impossible notwithstanding an inability to disassociate the disability
from service-related factors; and
WHEREAS, current law equitably alleviates the onerous burden of
establishing performance of duty or other causal connection as a
prerequisite for service connection; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, opposes changes in current law so as to redefine or restrict
service connection.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 124--LEGISLATIVE
supporting legislation to remove offset between military non-disability
payments and service-connected disability compensation
WHEREAS, servicemembers receive severance, separation,
readjustment, and retired pay not based on disability; and
WHEREAS, current law requires these benefits to be offset against
service-connected disability compensation; and
WHEREAS, each of these benefits are merited for totally separate
reasons and do not duplicate in any way service-connected disability
compensation; and
WHEREAS, the current provisions requiring offset are inequitable;
NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation to remove the offset between non-
disability severance, separation, readjustment, and retired pay and
service-connected disability compensation.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 125--LEGISLATIVE
supporting legislation to permit review of board of veterans' appeals
decisions on the basis of clear and unmistakable error
WHEREAS, final decisions of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
may not be reopened or reviewed except upon submission of new and
material evidence or in the case of clear and unmistakable error; and
WHEREAS, a decision by the United States Court of Appeals for the
Federal Circuit construed the law as including no right to review of a
clear and unmistakable error occurring in a final Board of Veterans'
Appeals decision; and
WHEREAS, it is inequitable to bar correction of a decision which is
undebatably wrong and which deprives a VA claimant of benefits to which
he or she is unquestionably entitled, merely because the error occurred
or was continued at the Board of Veterans' Appeals level; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation to provide for review, as a matter of
right, of a prior Board of Veterans' Appeals decision in which a
claimant asserts there is a clear and unmistakable error, and to
further provide for right of review of the Board's decision on this
question by the United States Court of Veterans Appeals without
necessity for a jurisdictional notice of disagreement.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 126--LEGISLATIVE
supporting measures to require board of veterans' appeals compliance
with due process procedures
WHEREAS, the Board of Veterans' Appeals (BVA) employs medical
treatises to help it in determining certain medical questions; and
WHEREAS, BVA also has limited authority to obtain independent
medical and legal opinions; and
WHEREAS, the United States Court of Veterans Appeals (Court) has
ruled that BVA must provide an appellant with a prior notice of its
intent to use such additional evidence or opinion, along with a
statement of BVA's intended reliance on this material; and
WHEREAS, notwithstanding the Court's ruling that this procedure is
required for ``any evidence'' obtained by BVA, the BVA, according to
its own contrary policy, does not provide a statement of its intended
reliance for independent medical experts' opinions and certain other
materials it obtains; and
WHEREAS, this leaves the veteran in the dark about BVA's
interpretation of such evidence, thereby preventing any opportunity to
persuade a different interpretation; and
WHEREAS, this contravenes BVA's duty to assist, is contrary to the
non-adversarial nature of VA proceedings, and is a denial of due
process as required by the Court's ruling; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports such regulatory or statutory changes as are deemed
appropriate to require BVA compliance with these procedures.
------
RESOLUTION NO. 127--LEGISLATIVE
opposing broadening of board of veterans' appeals authority to obtain
evidence
WHEREAS, within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the
various field offices have original jurisdiction over questions of
entitlement to veterans' benefits and services and the Board of
Veterans' Appeals (BVA) has appellate jurisdiction to review the
adjudication of the field offices; and
WHEREAS, it is the primary responsibility of the field office to
develop the evidentiary record with evidence sufficient to permit a
well-informed decision on a claim, with the BVA charged with the
function of reviewing the propriety of the record development and
decision of the field office; and
WHEREAS, BVA must remand in the case of a deficient record to have
the field office fulfill its responsibility to properly develop the
record; and
WHEREAS, BVA has limited statutory authority to directly obtain
evidence itself, under very special circumstances; and
WHEREAS, BVA seeks to broaden its authority to secure evidence
although it barely has personnel and resources sufficient to accomplish
its current responsibilities and although such action would only serve
to encourage poor record development by field offices; and
WHEREAS, the effect will be one requiring more VA claimants to
appeal to have their records developed properly, will further divert
BVA resources away from decision making, and will result in even longer
delays for VA claimants; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, opposes any legislative, regulatory, or administrative policy
changes which would permit or authorize the BVA to directly obtain
evidence, other than is currently expressly authorized by law.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 128--LEGISLATIVE
supporting legislation to preclude inappropriate remands from the court
of veterans appeals to the board of veterans' appeals
WHEREAS, appellants, but not the Department of Veterans Affairs
(VA), may appeal decisions from the Board of Veterans' Appeals (BVA) to
the United States Court of Veterans Appeals (COVA); and
WHEREAS, only appellants have the right to challenge the BVA
decision, therefore; and
WHEREAS, COVA nonetheless remands cases for further action and a
new decision by the BVA based on the VA's motions for remand which
contain VA's arguments of error in its own decision; and
WHEREAS, this practice allows VA to appeal its own decision, to
deprive appellants of their right to an independent review of BVA's
decisions by COVA, allows VA to avoid scrutiny of BVA's decision and
consideration of errors specified by appellants, and allows VA to
attempt to gather new evidence on remand in an effort to provide after-
the-fact justification for the prior denial; and
WHEREAS, appellants are not permitted remands merely to allow them
to strengthen their cases; and
WHEREAS, permitting VA to take cases back from the Court to the BVA
allows VA an unfair advantage and is therefore prejudicial to
appellants seeking independent review; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation to constrain COVA from remanding cases to
BVA for reasons argued by VA, over appellants' objections, and to
prevent remands which permit VA to search for additional evidence in an
attempt to justify the BVA denial.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 129--LEGISLATIVE
supporting legislation to provide for judicial review of certain
decisions involving degree of disability
WHEREAS, the United States Court of Veterans Appeals (COVA) has
jurisdiction to review Board of Veterans' Appeals Decisions which
resulted from notices of disagreement filed on or after November 18,
1988; and
WHEREAS, COVA has held that it does not have jurisdiction to review
a decision on the degree of disability where appeal was taken on that
issue immediately following the establishment of service connection if
there was a pre-November, 1988, notice of disagreement on the issue of
service connection, even though there was a post-November 19, 1988,
notice of disagreement on the issue of the degree of disability; and
WHEREAS, the issue of service connection and the issue of the
degree of disability involve separate adjudications; and
WHEREAS, when service connection is granted on appeal that totally
ends that appeal, requiring a new notice of disagreement and a new
appeal if the disability evaluation thereafter assigned is
unsatisfactory to the veteran; and
WHEREAS, COVA's reasoning is illogical in that it necessarily means
the veteran's disagreement as to degree of disability, and notice
thereof, preceded the adjudication on this issue; and
WHEREAS, this ruling by COVA unfairly deprives some veterans of the
right to judicial review; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation to override this restrictive ruling by
COVA and thereby reinstate the right to judicial review in these cases.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 153--LEGISLATIVE
opposition to subjecting compensation to means-testing
WHEREAS, the citizens of our Nation have heretofore honorably
recognized their indebtedness to those who sacrificed in the service of
their country by providing compensation as restitution for the personal
injuries suffered in such service; and
WHEREAS, a disabled veteran is rightfully entitled to restitution
for the effects of service-connected disability during its
continuation, without regard to good fortune or income of the veteran
or spouse from sources wholly independent of the government's
obligations to the veteran; and
WHEREAS, it is fundamentally unfair for the government to seek to
disclaim its obligation to disabled veterans or their survivors merely
because of the receipt of other, unrelated income; and
WHEREAS, notwithstanding the special status of disability and death
compensation, there are efforts to reduce or eliminate it where the
veteran or spouse, or survivor has other income; and
WHEREAS, this degrades compensation by providing it to the extent
of the veteran's or survivor's economic needs rather than a measure of
restitution equal to personal losses, thereby disassociating
compensation from that which merits it and associating it with factors
which govern purely gratuitous and welfare benefits; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, opposes any scheme to means test disability and death
compensation.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 154--LEGISLATIVE
opposing a freeze in the rates of va disability compensation benefits
WHEREAS, no segment of our society is more deserving of federal
benefits and services than those veterans who have incurred
disabilities while serving their country honorably in time of need; and
WHEREAS, under the guise of ``reducing federal expenditures,''
proposals have been advanced to freeze the current rates of VA
disability compensation benefits; and
WHEREAS, the disability compensation benefits of service-connected
disabled veterans should be periodically adjusted to reflect
inflationary pressures and the rise in the costs of goods and services;
and
WHEREAS, service-connected disabled veterans, who have suffered so
much for their country, should not be expected to endure further
hardships such as would occur should a cost-of-living adjustment be
denied to their benefits; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, opposes any freeze in the VA disability compensation program
if such program is singled out (from all other major federal
entitlement programs) for such treatment.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 157--LEGISLATIVE
to provide an increase in the specially adapted housing grant
authorized by section 2101(a) of title 38 u.s.c.
WHEREAS, section 2101(a) of title 38 U.S.C. authorizes a onetime
specially adapted housing grant to veterans who have incurred the
service-connected conditions of blindness, with loss or loss of use of
one lower extremity, multiple loss or loss of use of extremities, and/
or loss of functions which affect balance or propulsion; and
WHEREAS, the purpose of this grant is to enable such severely
disabled veterans to provide necessary structural adaptations and
modifications in their homes for comfort and egress; and
WHEREAS, the current $38,000.00 maximum amount authorized for this
grant is insufficient to allow such veterans to make all necessary
adaptations and modifications; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation in the Congress which would provide a
realistic increase in the grant authorized by section 2101(a) of title
38 U.S.C.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 161--LEGISLATIVE
eliminate the delimiting date for eligible spouses and surviving
spouses for benefits provided under chapter 35 of title 38 u.s.c.
WHEREAS, dependents and survivors eligible for VA education
benefits under chapter 35 of title 38 U.S.C. have ten years in which to
apply for and complete a program of education; and
WHEREAS, this ten year period begins either from the date a veteran
is evaluated by the VA as permanently and totally disabled from
service-connected disabilities or ten years from the date of such
veteran's death due to service-connected disability; and
WHEREAS, in many instances, because of family obligations or the
need to provide care to the veteran, spouses or surviving spouses may
not have had an opportunity to apply for these benefits; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, seeks the enactment of legislation which would eliminate the
delimiting date for spouses and surviving spouses for purposes of
benefits provided under chapter 35 of title 38 U.S.C.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 164--LEGISLATIVE
in support of legislation to allow for the payment of fees, expenses,
and court costs under 28 u.s.c. section 2412, equal access to justice
act, to unsupervised nonattorney representatives practicing before the
u.s. court of veterans appeals
WHEREAS, attorneys practicing before the United States Court of
Veterans Appeals (COVA) are allowed to collect reasonable attorney
fees, expenses and court costs pursuant to the provisions of 28 U.S.C.
2412, Equal Access to Justice Act (EAJA), in cases where the government
was not substantially justified in withholding benefits or services;
and
WHEREAS, COVA allows nonattorney representatives employed by
veterans' service organizations to practice, unsupervised, before the
Court; and
WHEREAS, DAV attorneys and nonattorney representatives practice
before COVA; and
WHEREAS, COVA has recently determined that DAV's nonattorney
representatives are not entitled to reasonable fees, expenses or court
costs pursuant to EAJA; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation in Congress which would allow
unsupervised nonattorney representatives to obtain EAJA fees under 28
U.S.C. Section 2412.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 185--LEGISLATIVE
revise the presumptive period in establishing service connection for
amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
WHEREAS, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) begins insidiously,
involving degeneration of nerve cells, either in the brain, the brain
stem, or the spinal cord, and is characterized by atrophy and, almost
always, fibrillation of the muscular systems of the body; and
WHEREAS, in its primary stage it is almost impossible to diagnose;
and
WHEREAS, the patient and doctor often believe that the condition
causing the symptoms is arrested and nothing more is done to document
the diagnostic entity; and
WHEREAS, when ALS has definitely been diagnosed, it has a dismal
and grave prognosis which inexorably leads to death within four to five
years; and
WHEREAS, the current presumptive period of one year from separation
from active duty is grossly inadequate due to the insidious nature of
this disease; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation to amend 38 U.S.C. Sec. 1112(a) to
increase the one-year presumptive period for ALS to seven years
following release from active service.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 219--LEGISLATIVE
supporting legislation to provide presumptive service connection to
atomic veterans for all recognized radiogenic diseases
WHEREAS, members of the United States Armed Services have
participated in test detonation of nuclear devices and served in
Hiroshima or Nagasaki, Japan following the detonation of nuclear bombs;
and
WHEREAS, the United States government knew or should have known of
the potential harm to the health and well-being of these military
members; and
WHEREAS, atomic veterans served their country with honor, courage,
and devotion to duty; and
WHEREAS, remedial legislation passed by Congress in 1984 has not
been effective in providing compensation to those atomic veterans
suffering from radiogenic diseases; and
WHEREAS, by the VA's own admission, approximately no more than 50
claimants have obtained disability compensation/dependency indemnity
compensation pursuant to Public Law 98-542; and
WHEREAS, the government has spent tens of millions of dollars to
provide dose reconstruction estimates which do not accurately reflect
actual radiation dose exposure; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation to provide presumptive service connection
to atomic veterans for all recognized radiogenic diseases.
RESOLUTION NO. 220--LEGISLATIVE
supporting legislation to allow all veterans to recover amounts
withheld as tax on disability severance pay
WHEREAS, money received as a result of personal injury or
disability is not taxable; and
WHEREAS, disability severance pay is paid to a military member as a
result of injury or disease suffered during military service; and
WHEREAS, Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has, and continues to, tax
military disability severance pay as regular income; and
WHEREAS, a United States District Court has held that military
disability severance pay is nontaxable income; and
WHEREAS, the IRS has acquiesced in the District Court holding; and
WHEREAS, the three-year statute of limitations prevents veterans,
who have been discharged for more than three years from recovering the
nontaxable money withheld by the IRS; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, strongly supports legislation which would allow all veterans
to recover nontaxable income withheld from their disability severance
pay, notwithstanding the three-year statute of limitations which would
otherwise prevent such recovery.
RESOLUTION NO. 221--LEGISLATIVE
to support legislation that would exempt the benefits paid to wartime
service-connected disabled veterans from the ``pay-go'' provisions of
the budget enforcement act
WHEREAS, wartime disabled veterans have earned the benefits and
services they, their dependents and survivors receive from the
Department of Veterans Affairs as a result of the injuries sustained
during their period of wartime service; and
WHEREAS, the benefits and services received by wartime disabled
veterans as a result of their service-connected disabilities is an
extension of the costs of war; and
WHEREAS, this country has a moral obligation to continue to care
for these citizen soldiers who have risen in defense and support of the
ideals of this great nation and who have returned to civilian life with
service-connected disabilities; and
WHEREAS, the benefits and services provided to America's veterans,
dependents and survivors have not caused this nation's deficit
problems; and
WHEREAS, the so-called ``pay-go'' provisions of the Budget
Enforcement Act require any new benefits or services to be paid out of
existing benefits or programs, in effect, requiring one group of
disabled veterans to give up a benefit or service so that another
worthy group of wartime disabled veterans can receive benefits or
services to which they are entitled; and
WHEREAS, Persian Gulf War veterans suffering from ailments
associated with their service in the Persian Gulf War are compensated
from funds generated by cutting the benefits of other service-connected
veterans and their survivors; and
WHEREAS, the benefits and services provided to wartime disabled
veterans are unique and are not a ``welfare benefit''; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation to exempt VA benefits and services
provided to service-connected disabled veterans, their dependents and
survivors from the ``pay-go'' provisions of the Budget Enforcement Act.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 222--LEGISLATIVE
liberalize criteria for agent orange claims
WHEREAS, herbicides, the most potent known as Agent Orange, were
used extensively and in great quantities in Vietnam; and
WHEREAS, many veterans were exposed in varying degrees to these
toxic defoliants and continue to suffer diseases of unknown origin; and
WHEREAS, more than 250,000 Vietnam veterans, concerned over this
exposure to herbicides, have been entered on the U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs Agent Orange Registry; and
WHEREAS, the National Academy of Sciences, in studies mandated by
the U.S. Congress, continues to review and evaluate scientific data to
determine whether a direct link exists between dioxin exposure and
certain physical disorders; and
WHEREAS, the Disabled American Veterans continues to support the
premise that such exposure is the proximate cause of certain health
disorders; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports liberalizing the criteria for herbicide-related
claims, including placing burden of proof for the award of disability
compensation on the U.S. Government and not on the individual veteran,
and making the U.S. Government responsible for providing needed medical
attention, examination, care and treatment, as required by sound
medical judgment, and where appropriate, awarding service-connected
compensation on the basis of sound medical/scientific findings; AND
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that those veterans now carried on the U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs Agent Orange Registry be given the
opportunity for a prompt examination by the U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs unit to ascertain dioxin levels, and to determine whether
shared medical conditions exist among them.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 223--LEGISLATIVE
supporting appropriate relief for spina bifida in the children of
vietnam veterans
WHEREAS, there is evidence suggestive of a link between Vietnam
veterans' exposure to the defoliant Agent Orange and spina bifida in
their children; and
WHEREAS, spina bifida can be disabling to varying degrees and can
require medical treatment; and
WHEREAS, these children's medical condition may be due to the
exposure of their parents to Agent Orange during the Vietnam War; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports the provision of appropriate relief to Vietnam
veterans' children where the veterans were exposed to Agent Orange and
the children suffer from spina bifida.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 224--LEGISLATIVE
opposition to reduction, taxation, or elimination of veterans' benefits
WHEREAS, veterans' benefits are earned benefits paid to veterans
and their families as a direct result of their service to the United
States Government; and
WHEREAS, veterans' benefits are a part of a covenant between our
Nation and its defenders; and
WHEREAS, certain government leaders have continued to attack
veterans' benefits in an attempt to tax those benefits, reduce them, or
eliminate them completely; and
WHEREAS, these attacks are occurring on a more frequent basis, with
more and more attacks every year; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, vigorously supports the protection of veterans' benefits from
taxation, cutbacks, and elimination.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 225--LEGISLATIVE
opposing the indexing of va disability compensation benefits
WHEREAS, the Administration and the Office of Management and Budget
have proposed that future adjustments in VA service-connected
disability compensation benefits shall be automatically ``indexed'' to
changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI); and
WHEREAS, adjustments of the benefit levels in this most important
VA program have always been determined through legislative action by
the U.S. Congress; and
WHEREAS, over the years such legislated increases have resulted in
more realistic levels for disabled veterans, improvement in other
compensation related entitlements and a continued and active
Congressional oversight over the entire compensation program; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, goes on record as being strongly opposed to the automatic
indexing of future adjustments in the VA service-connected disability
compensation program.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 226--LEGISLATIVE
expand pow presumptions
WHEREAS, former prisoners-of-war (POWs) suffered cruel and inhumane
treatment, together with nutritional deprivation at the hands of their
captors, which resulted in long-term adverse health effects; and
WHEREAS, POWs were subjected to numerous and varying forms of abuse
dependent upon the place, time and circumstance of their captivity by
the enemy; and
WHEREAS, for this reason former POWs suffer from a wide range of
different physical and psychological maladies; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation which would add those medical conditions
which are characteristically associated with or can be reasonably
attributed to the POW experience as presumptive disorders for former
POWs.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 227--LEGISLATIVE
to compensate persian gulf war veterans suffering from unknown illness
or disease circumstantially linked to their service in the persian gulf
war
WHEREAS, the DAV has a significant concern regarding the multitude
of ailments reported by a growing number of Persian Gulf War veterans
who were exposed to both identified and unknown health hazards; and
WHEREAS, Persian Gulf War veterans were exposed to numerous and
various environmental health hazards, including smoke from oil field
fires and other petroleum agents, depleted uranium, chemicals and
biological elements, desert parasites, vaccines, chemoprophylactic
agents and vehicle paints; and
WHEREAS, primary investigations and multifarious studies have been
unable to identify the source or sources of these ailments; and
WHEREAS, the scientific/medical community's inability to identify
the disease has caused considerable anxiety for these veterans and
their families; and
WHEREAS, there appears to be a commonality of ailments plaguing
Persian Gulf War veterans; and
WHEREAS, these ailments have been unofficially labeled ``Persian
Gulf Syndrome,'' ``Multiple Chemical Sensitivity'' and ``Chronic
Fatigue Syndrome''; and
WHEREAS, these brave veterans suffering from these unknown ailments
are often prevented from providing for their own basic needs and for
the needs of their families; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, vigorously supports the Department of Veterans Affairs
expeditious handling of Persian Gulf War veterans' claims and the
payment of fair and just compensation for these unknown ailments; AND
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we strongly urge that these Persian
Gulf War veterans receive priority medical treatment for those ailments
that may be associated with their service in the Persian Gulf; AND
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we vehemently urge VA, DoD and HHS to
continue to cooperate in tests and studies to unlock the mysteries
surrounding the ailments suffered by Persian Gulf War veterans,
including the possibility of exposure to chemical agents by U.S.
military personnel.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 228--LEGISLATIVE
supporting a change in regulatory requirements for a temporary total
rating under 38 c.f.r. 4.30
WHEREAS, with advances in modern medicine and increasing emphasis
on more efficient use of health care resources, health care providers
are being encouraged to utilize suitable alternatives to inpatient
care; and
WHEREAS, as a consequence, veterans are often treated through home
health services or convalesce at home rather than in the hospital; and
WHEREAS, convalescent ratings are currently only authorized where
inpatient or outpatient treatment resulted in surgery or immobilization
of a major joint by cast; and
WHEREAS, there are instances where the veteran's treatment did not
involve surgery or casting of a major joint, but the veteran has
undergone healing, convalescence, or a therapeutic course in the home,
with a duration of more than 21 days; and
WHEREAS, exacerbation of a service-connected disability sometimes
makes work activities contraindicated for periods of more than 21 days;
and
WHEREAS, in such instances, the therapeutic course, convalescence,
or restriction from work would occur in the home in lieu of
hospitalization for more than 21 days; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports a change in 38 C.F.R. 4.30 to provide for a temporary
total rating if treatment or exacerbation of a service-connected
disability results in a condition of temporary total incapacity for
employment or temporary unavailability for employment by reason of home
health care or ambulatory care, bed rest or confinement to the home, or
contraindication of work activities for more than 21 days.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 229--LEGISLATIVE
supporting change in law to provide for commencement of payment period
for temporary total ratings for compensation as of date of entitling
event
WHEREAS, prior to the addition of section 5111 to title 387, United
States Code, by Public Law 97-253, the payment period for temporary
total ratings for compensation purposes under paragraphs 29 and 30 of
the Schedule for Rating Disabilities commenced the date of award of the
temporary total rating based on the date of entrance into the hospital
for service-connected disability, the date of institution of hospital
treatment for a service-connected disability, or the date of qualifying
outpatient treatment for service-connected disability; and
WHEREAS, section 5111, added by Public Law 97-253, now provides
that the payment period for such temporary total rating does not
commence until the first day of the calendar month following the month
in which the award is effective, except where hospitalization or
treatment commences and terminates in the same month; and
WHEREAS, veterans under a temporary total service-connected
disability are, under section 5111, deprived of any increase in
compensation to offset the total disability during the first month in
which temporary total disability occurs; and
WHEREAS, this deprival and consequent delay in the payment of
increased compensation on account of total disability often jeopardizes
the financial security of disabled veterans and often unfairly causes
them hardship, NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation seeking an exemption of the temporary
total ratings from this provision of section 5111 of title 38 U.S.C.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 230--LEGISLATIVE
to establish section 5307 of title 38 u.s.c. as the sole means to
compel division of va benefits
WHEREAS, a primary purpose of section 5301 of title 38 U.S.C.
exempting VA benefits from taxation and claims of creditors and
preventing their exposure to legal claims of creditors and preventing
their exposure to legal process, should be to maximize national
uniformity in the protection afforded to VA benefits; and
WHEREAS, a necessarily implied purpose of section 1115 of title 38
U.S.C. is to provide support for dependents of VA beneficiaries; and
WHEREAS, a primary purpose of section 5307 of title 38 U.S.C.
empowering the VA Administrator to apportion VA benefits where a
veteran's spouse and/or children live separately, should be to provide
the means for achieving both uniformity of protection and support for
dependents in such living circumstances; and
WHEREAS, the U.S. Supreme Court's 1987 decision in Rose v. Rose,
authorizing courts to compel veterans to pay VA benefits to dependents
living separately, creates substantial risks that VA benefits will be
divided on a non-uniform basis; and
WHEREAS, extending the protection afforded VA benefits under
section 5301 to claims of dependents living separately would enhance
the likelihood of uniform treatment of VA benefits while preserving for
such dependents both the availability of apportionment under section
5307 for VA benefits and the availability of judicial process for
veterans' assets not attributable to VA benefits; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation to amend section 5301(a) of title 38
U.S.C. to provide that, except as provided by federal statute, payments
of benefits under any law administered by the Department of Veterans
Affairs shall not be liable to attachment, levy or seizure by or under
any legal or equitable process whatever, including court orders of any
sort whatsoever, before or after receipt by the beneficiary.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 231--LEGISLATIVE
supporting legislation to provide for waiver of premiums for
supplemental service diabled veterans insurance
WHEREAS, section 1922A (a) of title 38, United States Code (U.S.C.)
provides for supplemental service disabled veterans' insurance for
totally disabled veterans, in an amount not to exceed $20,000; and
WHEREAS, section 1922A (d) of title 38 U.S.C., provides that ``no
waiver of premiums shall be made in the case of any person for
supplemental insurance granted under this section''; and
WHEREAS, such prohibition of premium waiver is based on the
Servicemen's Indemnity Act of 1951, which states in part, ``[t]he
amount of insurance placed in force hereunder . . . at the time of the
insured's application for waiver hereunder, may not exceed $10,000''
(38 U.S.C. 1912 (d)); and
WHEREAS, such denial of waiver on supplemental service disabled
veterans' insurance for totally disabled veterans constitutes an
inequity based on prior established standards; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation to allow for the waiver of premiums, for
any and all supplemental service-disabled veterans' insurance for
totally disabled veterans that may be authorized by existing and future
legislation; AND
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the criteria for total disability
waiver of premiums, as mandated in section 1912 of title 38 U.S.C., be
maintained.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 232--LEGISLATIVE
to provide for a national cemetery in every state
WHEREAS, there are many states and regions of the United States
without National Cemetery facilities; and
WHEREAS, federal and state land ideally suited for cemetery
development is available in many states; and
WHEREAS, veterans should be entitled to burial in a National
Cemetery reasonably close to their homes; and
WHEREAS, VA's current policy of regionalization does not always
ensure that eligible deceased veterans can be interred close to their
families; NOT
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation to provide for at least one open National
Cemetery in each state to ensure that all veterans may be buried in a
National Cemetery reasonably close to their homes.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 233--LEGISLATIVE
restore eligibility and increase burial and plot allowance
WHEREAS, all veterans who have served their country honorably and
faithfully are entitled to a decent burial and final resting place; and
WHEREAS, the amount payable by the VA as a burial allowance ($300)
and the amount payable as a plot allowance ($150) have remained
constant for many years in spite of the inflationary spiral; and
WHEREAS, Public Law 97-35, effective October 1, 1981, restricted
the eligibility for the $300 burial allowance, greatly reducing the
number of veterans who previously qualified; and
WHEREAS, Public Law 101-508, enacted in November 1990, reduced the
number of veterans who would have otherwise been eligible for the $150
plot allowance; and
WHEREAS, these restrictive measures enacted over time were intended
purely as cost-savings measures without regard to intrinsic value of
this final honor which was bestowed by a grateful nation; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, support legislation to (1) increase both the VA burial and
plot allowance to a level reflecting the inflationary impact of the
intervening years, (2) restore entitlement to the VA burial allowance
to those categories of veterans eliminated by Public Law 97-35, and (3)
restore entitlement to the VA plot allowance to those categories of
veterans eliminated by enactment of Public Law 101-508.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 234--LEGISLATIVE
supporting legislation to provide a headstone or marker for all
veterans
WHEREAS, title 38, United States Code (U.S.C.), chapter 23, section
2306 authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to furnish
appropriate government headstones or markers at the expense of the
United States only for the unmarked graves of veterans interred in
public or private cemeteries; and
WHEREAS, veterans interred in a national cemetery, post, or
veterans' cemetery owned by a state are furnished an appropriate
headstone or marker at the expense of the United States; and
WHEREAS, it is inappropriate and unfair to deny veterans and their
families their rightful recognition of service to the United States by
limiting the availability of headstones or markers at government
expense to gravesites of veterans who have no other marker; and
WHEREAS, it is inappropriate and unfair to deny veterans and their
families their rightful recognition of service to the United States by
limiting the availability of headstones or markers at government
expenses to gravesites of veterans who have no other marker; and
WHEREAS, the Disabled American Veterans desires that the U.S.
Congress take appropriate action to correct this injustice and inequity
to America's veterans and their families; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation to amend 38 U.S.C., chapter 23, section
2306 (a) by deleting the word ``unmarked'', thereby authorizing the
Secretary of Veterans Affairs to furnish appropriate government
headstones or markers at the expense of the United States for all
graves of veterans interred in public or private cemeteries
notwithstanding the presence of other markers on the grave site.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 235--LEGISLATIVE
amend the vocational rehabilitation program
WHEREAS, under current law, qualified and eligible disabled
veterans are entitled to 48 months of education or training assistance
under vocational rehabilitation; and
WHEREAS, the disabled veteran must start and complete this program
within 12 years following the determination of eligibility; and
WHEREAS, many disabled veterans are unable to complete their
training and attain suitable employment within 48 months and others are
unable or don't need training within 12 years following initial
eligibility; and
WHEREAS, other vocational rehabilitation programs in the private
sector and federal sector do not impose similar restrictions; and
WHEREAS, we believe disabled veterans deserve no less; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 27-August
1, 1996, seeks legislative change that would eliminate these two
restrictions.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 236--LEGISLATIVE
expand vietnam era
WHEREAS, the Department of Defense has recognized U.S. combat
involvement in Vietnam by awarding the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal
and the Navy and Marine Corps expeditionary Medals for service in
Vietnam for the period of July 1, 1958, to July 3, 1965; and
WHEREAS, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal and Navy and Marine
Corps Expeditionary Medals are awarded for honorable duty within
specified geographical areas, and specified times during period of war,
national emergency, and for participation in specified military
operation; and
WHEREAS, during the periods of July 1, 1958, to July 3, 1965, many
of our armed forces personnel were in Vietnam, in a hostile
environment, training South Vietnamese military personnel; and
WHEREAS, a number of our armed forces personnel were wounded,
captured or killed by North Vietnamese troops or guerrilla forces
during this period of time; and
WHEREAS, Congress has amended title 38 U.S.C. section 101 (29), to
include the term ``Vietnam Era'' as meaning the period beginning August
5, 1964, and ending May 7, 1975; and
WHEREAS, presently title 38 U.S.C. prevents veterans who served
during the period of July 1, 1958, to August 4, 1964, from receiving
``Vietnam Era'' benefits; and
WHEREAS, most states adopt legislation affecting veterans' benefits
to conform with the dates set forth in title 38 U.S.C.; and
WHEREAS, a number of veterans who served in Vietnam between July 1,
1958, and August 4, 1964, and their dependents and widows, are being
denied federal and state veterans' benefits because of this unjust
situation; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation that will provide for recognition by the
Department of Veterans Affairs, under the provisions of title 38 U.S.C.
section 101 (29), by changing the dates of the ``Vietnam Era'' to
beginning July 1, 1958, and ending May 7, 1975.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 237--LEGISLATIVE
opposing any reduction in veterans' programs
WHEREAS, there is a concerted effort to streamline and make more
efficient the federal government; and
WHEREAS, the Vice President's National Performance Review
(``Reinventing Government'') makes numerous recommendations which
impact on the Department of Veterans Affairs; and
WHEREAS, several of those recommendations appear to be directed at
cost-saving measures rather than efficiency and effectiveness, NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, urges Congress to reject any proposed intention to
``streamline'' government that would reduce or diminish VA's ability to
properly serve and care for our nation's veterans.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 238--LEGISLATIVE
opposing any authorization of use of members of the armed forces for
human experimentation without their knowledge and informed consent
WHEREAS, those who serve in our Nation's Armed Forces make personal
sacrifices to maintain our national security; and
WHEREAS, members of the Armed Forces should be accorded special
respect and the gratitude of us for whom they serve; and
WHEREAS, their willingness to sacrifice and relinquish their
liberty does not surrender their natural right to determine what shall
be done with their own bodies and their right to personal dignity; and
WHEREAS, it is unethical and a trespass against the person to use
service members for human experimentation without their knowledge and
consent; and
WHEREAS, our government has in the past used military members as
human guinea pigs to test the effects of harmful and injurious
substances on the body; and
WHEREAS, the Food and Drug Administration plans to make final a
temporary rule allowing administration of experimental drugs to
military members without their knowledge and informed consent. NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, opposes any rule or provision that would authorize use of
service members for human experimentation without their knowledge and
informed consent.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 239--LEGISLATIVE
oppose abolishment of committees on veterans' affairs
WHEREAS, veterans, who have sacrificed to preserve our democratic
form of government, deserve committees dedicated to their interests in
the House of Representatives and Senate; and
WHEREAS, the Senate and House Committees on Veterans' Affairs have
been standing committees for many years; and
WHEREAS, in the past there have been several proposals to abolish
the Committees on Veterans' Affairs; and
WHEREAS, the Senate and House Veterans' Affairs Committees have
functioned as bipartisan committees to ensure that VA and American
veterans receive the benefits they have earned by serving this Nation;
and
WHEREAS, the Government of the United States of America must never
diminish the obligation that is owed to those who served in the Armed
Forces; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, opposes the abolishment of the Senate and House Veterans'
Affairs Committees.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 240
opposing the use of va generated savings for purposes other than
restoring va benefits and services
WHEREAS, a former Office of Management and Budget Director proposed
to use savings from reductions in veterans benefits and services to
revamp the welfare system; and
WHEREAS, the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Acts of 1990 and 1993
required the Department of Veterans Affairs to cut veterans programs by
more than six billion dollars, which include the loss of compensation
payments for certain incompetent veterans, elimination of Vocational
Rehabilitation for some service-connected veterans, elimination of
entitlement to Dependency & Indemnity Compensation for remarried
surviving spouses and the elimination of cost of living increase for
the Montgomery G.I. Bill educational benefits; and
WHEREAS, in addition, the fiscal year 1996 budget proposed by
Congress for veterans' benefits and services called for a seven year
freeze in spending levels for health care and general operating
expense, ignoring the fact that the Department of Veterans Affairs'
current spending levels do not permit the timely delivery of health
care and benefit determinations; and
WHEREAS, the use of VA generated savings should be used for
restoring VA benefits and services which have been taken away from
America's veterans over the past several years; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, go on record as strongly opposing the use of VA generated
savings for purposes other than restoring VA benefits and services.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 241--LEGISLATIVE
to extend commissary and exchange privileges on the basis of an award
of dic benefits
WHEREAS, current Department of Defense regulations authorize
military commissary and exchange privileges to a broad category of
active and retired military personnel, their dependents and survivors;
and
WHEREAS, these regulations authorize such privileges to the spouses
of living veterans who are permanently and totally disabled due to a
service-connected disability and to the survivors of veterans who were
permanently and totally disabled due to a service-connected disability
at time of death; and
WHEREAS, the survivors of veterans whose service-connected
impairments were evaluated at less than totally disabling but whose
deaths were determined to be service related are denied these
privileges; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports the enactment of legislation that would authorize
military commissary and exchange privileges for the survivors of
veterans whose deaths were found to be related to a service-connected
disability.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 242--LEGISLATIVE
in support of cost-of-living adjustments (colas) for military retirees
WHEREAS, COLAs for military retirees were reduced or eliminated as
a result of legislation during 1986 and 1993; and
WHEREAS, other categories of federal annnuitants and
beneficiaries--Social Security and VA service-connected disability
compensation and nonservice-connected pension recipients, for example--
were not subject to these same COLA restrictions; and
WHEREAS, it is basically unfair--especially in the case of military
disability retirees--to provide a COLA to one category of federal
beneficiary while withholding such an adjustment from another category;
NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation in the Congress which would ensure the
timely extension of COLAs to military retirees when similar adjustments
are being authorized for beneficiaries in the Social Security and Va
benefit programs.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 243--LEGISLATIVE
extend military commissary and exchange privileges and space-available
air travel to certain service-connected disabled veterans
WHEREAS, disabled enlisted personnel who were discharged from
military service prior to October 1, 1949--the effective date of the
Career Compensation Act--are not entitled to disability retirement from
the armed forces; and
WHEREAS, many service-connected disabled veterans have been
deprived of the various benefits to which all other disabled retired
military personnel have enjoyed; and
WHEREAS, due to inflation, service-connected disabled veterans
receiving VA compensation as a sole source of income are experiencing
difficulties in keeping pace with the increased cost of living; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation which would extend military commissary
and exchange privileges, as well as space-available air travel aboard
military aircraft, to enlisted personnel who were discharged from
active military service prior to October 1, 1949, for a service-
incurred injury or disease rated by the Department of Veterans Affairs
as 30 percent or more disabling and who retained at least a 30 percent
evaluation for a period of five years from the date of separation from
active duty.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 244--LEGISLATIVE
to extend space-available air travel aboard military aircraft to 100
percent service-connected disabled veterans
WHEREAS, totally disabled service-connected veterans have
sacrificed greatly in terms of their impairments and loss of earnings
capacity; and
WHEREAS, more than any other living group of Americans, such
veterans should be eligible for all benefits and privileges that the
Congress may provide; and
WHEREAS, such totally disabled veterans should be extended the same
privileges as other personnel currently authorized to utilize space-
available military air travel; and
WHEREAS, the extension of such travel to totally disabled service-
connected veterans would not place any additional burden upon the
administration of this program; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, seeks the enactment of legislation which would extend space-
available air travel aboard military aircraft to all 100 percent
service-connected disabled veterans to the same extent and under the
same conditions as is currently provided to retired military personnel.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 245--LEGISLATIVE
in support of a military medal to recognize and honor the courage,
sacrifice and devotion to duty of those veterans exposed to ionizing
radiation during military service
WHEREAS, members of the United States military have participated
(both willingly and unwillingly in test detonations of nuclear devices,
served in Hiroshima or Nagasaki, Japan following the detonation of
nuclear bombs, and served and continue to serve at duty stations on
land, sea, and air where they are exposed to atomic and/or radioactive
weapons, equipment, and nuclear reactors; and
WHEREAS, this service has been in the performance of their duties
as members of the United States Armed Services; and
WHEREAS, the United States Government knew or should have known of
the potential harm to the health and well-being of these military
members; and
WHEREAS, the honorable service of the men and women who were
exposed to ionizing radiation during their military service has gone
unrecognized by the military and our nation; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports the recognition of these brave men and women who were
exposed to ionizing radiation during military service with the issuance
of a military medal for their atomic/radiation service to acknowledge
their courage, sacrifice and devotion to duty.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 246--LEGISLATIVE
support for legislation to allow veterans' organizations to solicit
contributions on post office property
WHEREAS, the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) was founded on the
principle that this nation's first duty to veterans is the
rehabilitation of its wartime-disabled; and
WHEREAS, it is the first duty of the DAV to assist the service-
connected disabled, his widow and survivors; and
WHEREAS, DAV Chapters and Departments provide assistance to
hospitalized and needy veterans such as donations to VA Medical
Centers, financial assistance to needy veterans, meal programs,
temporary housing, and transportation programs; and
WHEREAS, the efforts of the DAV on behalf of this nation's wartime-
disabled veterans augments the government's legal and moral obligation
to wartime disabled veterans; and
WHEREAS, postal regulations, now being enforced, prohibit any
solicitation on post office properties; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, supports legislation to allow veterans' organizations to
solicit contributions on postal property.
______
RESOLUTION NO. 247--LEGISLATIVE
opposing any legislation to reduce the number of judges on the united
states court of veterans appeals
WHEREAS, there has been a recent increase in the number of appeals
being filed with the United States Court of Veterans Appeals (COVA),
due in large part to increased production levels by the Board of
Veterans' Appeals (BVA) and a large (10-15%) error rate in BVA
decisions; and
WHEREAS, there has been a large increase in the number of appeals
to COVA filed by DAV during the second quarter of 1996 and it is
anticipated that the large number of appeals filed by DAV will continue
into the foreseeable future; and
WHEREAS, any reduction in the number of COVA judges, below the
authorized maximum number of seven, is premature and could cause long
delays in the judicial appellate process; NOW
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Disabled American Veterans in
National Convention assembled in New Orleans, Louisiana, July 28-August
1, 1996, opposes any legislation that would reduce the number of judges
on the United States Court of Veterans Appeal.
______
Commander McMasters. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
Is there support for the motion? Mike 3.
NEC 1st District Alternate Drogo. Frank Drogo, alternate
national Committeeman from District 1, supports the report.
Commander McMasters. Thank you. We have the motion and the
support. Are we ready for the question? Ready for the question?
All in favor, signify by Aye; opposed. It's carried.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
Mr. Giese. Thank you, Commander. [Applause.]
Commander McMasters. Now we'll go into the Constitution and
Bylaws Committee for their final report. Mr. Daley.
Mr. Daley. Thank you, Comrade Commander. Good morning,
ladies and gentlemen. Copies of the proposed changes of the
National Bylaws have been placed on your seats, and they are
printed on both back and front.
Before we get started, please turn to Resolution Number 209
on your seats there. In rendering our National Bylaws gender
neutral, we missed two places on this resolution which need to
be called to your attention. Beginning four lines from the
bottom, it should read:
If no payment is made during three full membership years, he
or she is not thereafter a member. He or she may reinstate
their membership at any time by initiating additional payments.
Yesterday's reading properly included these corrections.
They simply were not corrected for this printing.
Comrades, you may recall that the convention passed last
year two constitutional amendments which would have rendered
our National Constitution gender neutral. After repeated
efforts to get our chapters to vote one way or the other on
them, they failed for the lack of a three-fourths majority, and
the count was as follows: total qualified chapters, 2,278. We
needed a three-fourths majority, which was 1,709. Chapters
ratifying Resolution 336 were 1525. Chapters ratifying
Resolution Number 337 were 1,550. Three-fourths majority we
need is 1,709.
Now to the proposed amendments. I will read the RESOLVED
one time only, as it is the same on each proposed amendment.
Then I will read, as I did yesterday, the portion amended,
which is usually a section or paragraph. In many cases, you
have the surrounding language which has been printed, so that
you can see where the amendment would be positioned in the
Bylaws.
We believe that this presentation makes available to you in
clearer fashion just what you are being asked to consider.
After I read each resolution, I will move for its adoption.
Resolution Number 197. I'm going to read that RESOLVED
once, ladies and gentlemen.
RESOLVED to amend the indicated sections of the National
Bylaws of the Disabled American Veterans by adding/omitting
text as follows. (Omissions are indicated by lining through,
and additions are indicated by underlining.)
Section 3.10. Rules of the Convention.
(b) If such resolution proposes to amend the Constitution or
Bylaws, it may not be considered unless the proponent had it
read at the time the resolutions favorably reported by the
Convention Constitution and Bylaws Committee were read to the
convention in accordance with Section 3.10, Rule 21(d).
Recommend Resolution Number 197 for its adoption.
Commander McMasters. Mike 2.
Mr. George H. Steese. George Steese, delegate, Chapter 1,
California, seconds that.
Commander McMasters. You've heard the motion and the
support. Are we ready for the question? Ready for the question?
All in favor, signify by Aye; opposed.
In the interest of saving time, how about if we have him
continue through these, unless there's an objection to
something, and then approve them all with one or two motions?
Any objections to that?
Okay. Continue.
Mr. Daley. Resolution 200, Section 6.4, Suspension and
Revocation of Charters.
Paragraph 4. When the charter of any chapter has been
revoked, all members of the chapter shall be transferred by the
national adjutant to the state at-large chapter. In the absence
of a state at-large chapter, the members shall be transferred
to the Nomad National At-Large Chapter.
Paragraph 5. Upon revocation of the charter of any chapter or
county or district council where no state department exists, or
upon revocation of any charter of a state department all
property, money and effects of said state department, chapter
or country or district council shall revert to the national
organization, there to be held in trust for 18 months. In the
event the state department, chapter or county or district
council's charter is not reissued within the 18-month period,
the said property, money and effects shall become the absolute
property of the national organization. Disposition of assets of
units of the DAV Women's Auxiliary are controlled by the
appropriate provisions of their Constitution and Bylaws.
Paragraph 6. Upon revocation of the charter of a chapter or
county or district council under the jurisdiction of a state
department, all property, money and effects of the chapter or
county or district council shall become the property of the
state department. Disposition of assets of units of the DAV
Women's Auxiliary are controlled by the appropriate provisions
of their Constitution and Bylaws.
Resolution 200, I move for its adoption.
Commander McMasters. I think what we're going to do at this
time, Tom, is we're just going to continue and then, if there's
no objection to that portion, we'll go on to the next one. And
if we come up with an objection, we'll move all of the
resolutions prior to that and then consider the objections
separately. Okay? That'll speed it up.
Mr. Daley. Resolution 201. Section 7.10, Term of Office of
Certain Appointees.
Paragraph 1. The term of office of persons appointed by the
national commander under Section 7.2 of these Bylaws and of
persons appointed by the national adjutant under Section 7.4 of
these Bylaws shall not exceed that of the appointing power and
may be terminated at any time by the appointing power,
provided, however, that the removal of the national adjutant by
the national commander is subject to approval by a two-thirds
vote of the National Executive Committee. The National
Executive Committee may, by a two-thirds vote of its members,
remove the national adjutant from office for cause.
Paragraph 2. The term of office of all persons appointed by
the national commander under Section 7.2 of these Bylaws and of
all persons appointed by the national adjutant under Section
7.4 of these Bylaws terminates automatically at the adjournment
of each convention, except that such appointees who are not
employees of the national organization may continue to serve
until their successors are installed. There is no right
whatsoever to reappointment to any position held by appointment
under Section 7.2 or under Section 7.4 of these Bylaws.
Resolution Number 202.
Paragraph 2. The financial statements as required by these
Bylaws must be audited by an independent public accountant if
the gross annual income, excluding membership per capita,
exceeds $300,000 for all sources.
Resolution Number 203.
Paragraph 2. Each state department shall include the
following provision in its Bylaws unless prohibited by the
charitable trust laws of its particular state:
``This department recognizes the national organization known as
Disabled American Veterans, incorporated by Act of Congress, and
affirms its allegiance and subordination to the national organization,
its Constitution, Bylaws and all rules, mandates and regulations
promulgated pursuant thereto. Upon dissolution of the department, the
assets remaining after the payment of its debts shall be distributed as
provided in Article 6, Section 6.4, Paragraphs 5 and 6 of the National
Bylaws.''
Resolution Number 204.
Paragraph 2. There shall be no form of unit rule or voting by
proxy.
Resolution 205. Section 9.1: Chapter Constitution; Bylaws;
Regulations. Article 9.
Paragraph 2. Each chapter shall include the following
provision in its Bylaws unless prohibited by the charitable
trust laws of its particular state:
``This chapter recognizes the national organization known as
Disabled American Veterans, incorporated by Act of Congress,
and affirms its allegiance and subordination to the national
organization, its Constitution, Bylaws and all rules, mandates
and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto. Upon dissolution
of the chapter, the assets remaining after the payment of its
debts shall be distributed as provided in Article 6, Section
6.4, Paragraphs 5 and 6 of the National Bylaws.''
Rsolution 206. Section 9.3, Financial Records, Reports.
Paragraph 2. the financial statements as required by these
Bylaws must be audited by an independent public accountant if
the gross annual income, excluding membership per capita,
exceeds $300,000 from all sources.
Resolution Number 207.
Paragraph 3. The financial statements as required by these
Bylaws must be audited by an independent public accountant if
the gross annual income, excluding membership per capita,
exceeds $300,000 from all sources.
Resolution Number 208. Section 10.3, Limitation of Powers.
Paragraph 2. Each auxiliary and its subordinate units shall
include the following provision in its Bylaws unless prohibited
by the charitable trust laws of its particular state:
``This [type of unit] recognizes the national organization
known as Disabled American Veterans, incorporated by Act of
congress, and affirms its allegiance and subordination to the
national organization, its constitution, Bylaws and all rules,
mandates and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto. Upon
dissolution of the [type of unit], the assets remaining after
the payment of its debts shall be distributed as provided in
Article 6, Section 6.4, Paragraphs 5 and 6 of the National
Bylaws.''
Resolution Number 209. This is the one that we made
reference from the outset of this resolution. Section 11.5,
Membership Dues.
Paragraph 1. Membership dues shall be $20, and shall be for
the membership year or any part thereof. The membership year
starts July 1 and ends the following June 30th. All membership
dues will be applied toward becoming a member for life and will
be deposited directly in the individual's membership account as
established under Paragraph 2 below. Once the appropriate full
membership amount has been paid into the member's account, he
or she will no longer be required to pay dues.
Paragraph 2. Those eligible who have not attained the age of
41 before July 1 of the current year may become a member for
life upon payment of $150. Those who are between the ages of 41
and 60, upon payment of $125; those who are between the ages of
61 and 70, upon payment of $100; and those who have attained
the age of 71 or over, upon payment of $75. Section 11.7,
Duration of Membership.
All memberships will extend for three full membership years
from the date of the most recent payment, or (if and when paid
in full) throughout the member's lifetime. If membership is
paid in installments, payment notices will be sent to the
member as a reminder. However, the member may pay the balance,
or any part thereof, at any time. Distribution under Section
11.8 will only occur when there are sufficient funds in the
member's account. If no payment is made during three full
membership years, he or she is not thereafter a member. He or
she may reinstate their membership at any time by initiating
additional payments. Such payments will be applied to the
previous balance and be counted toward a fully paid membership.
Resolution Number 210. Section 11.10, Multiple Memberships.
No member shall hold membership simultaneously in more than
one chapter within the same state unless such other chapter is
composed exclusively of blind veterans or amputee veterans.
Resolution Number 211. Section 12.1, Employment Policy.
Article 12.
Paragraph 2. No paid employee of the national organization,
hereafter referred to as ``the employer'', who is a member of
the DAV or its Women's Auxiliary and who has been so employed
continuously for a period of five years, shall be discharged
except for cause. 12.2, Procedure
Paragraph 1. An employee described in Section 12.1, Paragraph
2 of these Bylaws may, within 31 days of receiving from the
national adjutant a written notice of discharge, make written
demand upon the national adjutant for a hearing before a
Hearing Board, as herein provided. Kindly turn the next page.
Paragraph 10. Upon conclusion of the hearing, the Hearing
Board, by a majority vote, shall, after deliberation, render a
decision either that the former employee's discharge be upheld
or that he be reinstated with all pay and benefits retroactive
to the date of his termination. The decision of the Hearing
Board shall be final for all purposes and shall constitute a
binding arbitration, which the parties shall acknowledge by
executing an appropriate agreement in advance of the hearing.
Resolution Number 212.
Commander McMasters. Just a minute, Tom.
Ms. Mary L. Cartwright. Cartwright, delegate from Chapter
122, California. On these following resolutions, where you have
missed the ``he'' or ``she,'' are you going to put that in?
Commander McMasters. We're going to endeavor in all cases
to make this document as gender neutral as we can. And if
there's been an oversight at this point, it will be corrected
before the final printing.
Ms. Cartwright. All right. Thank you.
Mr. Daley. Resolution Number 212. Section 14.4,
Depositories.
The National Finance Committee shall, by regulation,
designate one or more depositories for all revenue of this
organization.
Resolution Number 213. Section 14.5, National Revenue;
Deposit and Investment.
Paragraph 1. All monies received in payment for membership
shall be deposited in a separate account in one of these
depositories, and all membership monies and securities shall be
kept separate from the general funds of the organization,
subject only to withdrawals to carry out the Life Membership
Program. The National Finance Committee, with the concurrence
of a two-thirds majority of the National Executive Committee,
shall authorize the investment and reinvestment of such
portions of the Life Membership Fund as it may determine to be
in the best interests of the Membership Program.
Paragraph 3. The National Finance Committee shall provide in
its regulations that access to any safety deposit box can be
had only by the national adjutant and/or national comptroller
in company with one additional bonded employee designated by
the National Finance Committee. Disbursement of membership
monies from the checking account of the Life Membership Fund
shall be made upon life membership checks bearing the
signatures of the national adjutant and national comptroller.
Resolution Number 214. Section 15.3, For Chapters, Women's
Auxiliaries and NOTR.
Paragraph 1. The revenue of chapters, Women's Auxiliary units
and subordinate units of the NOTR shall be derived from dues,
contributions and such other sources as may be approved by the
state department within the same is located. Where no
commissions are to be paid, and solicitation of funds shall be
only by personal contact of members, or friends of members, no
prior approval shall be required for a fund-raising project
where the gross receipts will be less than $5,000, provided,
however, that advance written notice of 30 days to the state
department shall be required on all such fund-raising projects.
(Such fund-raising must be in compliance with federal, state
and local laws.) All monies received by local chapters on fund-
raising activities, except as may lawfully be required to be
paid to the state department having jurisdiction over such
chapters, shall be retained by such chapter. If there is no
state department, approval must be obtained from the National
Executive Committee.
Resolution Number 215. Section 15.4, Women's Auxiliary
National Organization.
Paragraph 2. No state department of the DAV Women's Auxiliary
shall conduct any fund-raising project without the prior
consent of the DAV state department and the DAV National
Executive Committee.
Paragraph 4. If any dugout or other subordinate unit of the
National Order of Trench Rats, or if any local unit or other
subordinate unit of the DAV Women's Auxiliary desires to hold
any fund-raising drive or fund-raising activity in the
territory of more than one chapter, such subordinate unit,
before asking for the required approval, shall give written
notice of its intention to ask such approval, with reasonably
detailed information about the proposed drive or activity, to
all chapters within such territory not less than two weeks
before seeking approval, and all such chapters shall have the
right to protest promptly to the state department or to the
National Executive Committee, whichever may have the power of
approval as set out above. Section 15.5, National Order of
Trench Rats.
The national organization of the National Order of Trench
Rats shall not conduct any fund-raising project or fund-raising
activity without the prior consent of the National Executive
Committee.
Resolution Number 216. Section 15.7, Supervision and
Enforcement.
Paragraph 2. Without limiting the remedies elsewhere provided
in these Bylaws, the national commander may, in his sole
discretion, direct an audit of the books and records of any
such subordinate unit. The national organization, an
independent account, or a certified public accountant shall
conduct such audit. The expense of such audit shall be borne by
the subordinate unit.
Paragraph 3. Each subordinate unit subject to the provisions
hereof shall make available to the national commander or his
designee all books and records for inspection at any reasonable
time at its principal headquarters.
Paragraph 4. Each subordinate unit subject to the provisions
hereof shall hold the national organization harmless from any
claims arising from approval granted or withheld by any
governing body hereunder, and the approval of such body is
specifically limited to the project submitted as a means of
fund-raising and may not be construed so as tomake the
approving body a party to any contract or obligation arising
out of the project.
Paragraph 5. The national commander, acting pursuant to
Paragraph 2 above, in his sole discretion may order any
subordinate unit subject to the provisions hereof to cease and
desist from any fund-raising project deemed by him not to be in
the best interest of the Disabled American Veterans.
Paragraph 6. This section shall be applicable to, and shall
be incorporated by reference into, all contracts entered into
pursuant to this Article. It shall be applicable to all parties
to such contracts. If projects are conducted without written
contracts but nevertheless pursuant to authority granted under
this Article, the rights, duties and obligations of the
subordinate unit and all parties thereto shall also be subject
to the provisions of this section.
Resolution Number 217. Article 17, Articles of
Incorporation. Section 17.1, Approval Required.
Any subordinate unit, including but not limited to,
foundations, memorial homes, thrift stores and any other entity
which is now incorporated or desires to incorporate and use the
name of the Disabled American Veterans or the letters ``DAV''
or any name similar thereto in its corporate name must submit
the proposed articles of incorporation and any bylaws or
amendments to the respective state departments and the National
Executive Committee for approval prior to filing and complying
with state law. They must contain the following provision,
unless the charitable trust laws of the particular state direct
otherwise:
``This corporation recognizes the national organization known
as Disabled American Veterans, incorporated by Act of Congress,
and affirms its allegiance and subordination to the national
organization, its Constitution, Bylaws and all rules, mandates
and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto. Upon dissolution
of the corporation, the assets remaining after the payment of
its debts shall be distributed as provided in Article 6,
Section 6.44, Paragraphs 5 and 6 of the National Bylaws.''
Resolution Number 218. Article 18, Accumulation of Funds.
Section 18.1, Definition of Terms.
Paragraph 1. The ``funds'' referred to in this Article are
the liquid assets of subordinate units.
Mr. Harold E. Wiley. Mike 1.
Commander McMasters. Mike 1, please delay your comment
until he's finished reading this part, and then I'll get to
you.
Mr. Daley.
Paragraph 2. ``Service purposes'' are budgetary projects
recognized as service under these Bylaws and regulations
promulgated pursuant thereto.
Section 18.2, Restriction on Accumulation.--Subordinate units
may not accumulate funds, whether for service purposes or
otherwise, in excess of twice the expenses of their last fiscal
year.
Section 18.3, Expenditure of Excess Funds.--Paragraph 1.
Subordinate units whose accumulated funds exceed the amount
referred to in Section 18.2 above must comply with this Article
by expending such excess within a reasonable time.
Paragraph 2. The expenditure of funds by subordinate units to
accomplish compliance with this Article must be for service
purposes.
Commander McMasters. Okay. Mike 1.
Mr. Wiley. Harold Wiley, Department of Washington, 46,
delegate. I have a question on that in accumulation of funds.
It appears to me that this would specifically prohibit a
subordinate unit from accumulating funds for a building
inasmuch as that may exceed the annual budget for two years.
And I think this matter should be considered separately.
Mr. Daley. That was incorporated under Rule 9, It's
incorporated--this is a new resolution under 218, and that Rule
9 incorporates this into Article 19, Accumulation of Funds. I
think it stipulates that and it covers that.
Commander McMasters. Okay. What I'm going to do at this
time, I'm going to entertain a motion--are you ready for this--
a motion to accept or adopt Resolutions 200, 201, 202, 203,
204, 205, 206, 207, 208, 209, 210, 211, 212, 213, 214, 215, 216
and 217.
Mr. George H. Steese. Mike 2.
Commander McMasters. Mike 2.
Mr. Steese. George Steese, delegate, Chapter 1, California,
moves that we adopt those resolutions as read.
Commander McMasters. We have the motion. Is there support?
Mike 1, please.
Mr. Harry I. Kabler. Harry Kabler, commander, Big D
Chapter, Dallas 57, seconds that motion.
Commander McMasters. Okay. We have a motion and support.
Are you ready for the question?
Member. No. Mike 2.
Commander McMasters. Mike 2.
Member. Resolution Number 216, the new Paragraph 3 as it's
printed is stated as Paragraph 34. We need a little
housekeeping.
Commander McMasters. That's just a housekeeping thing. That
will be corrected. But thank you for bringing that to our
attention.
The gentleman that was just at Mike 2, would you please
identify yourself for the record, now that you've gotten back
to your seat.
Mr. Russell Bain. Russell Bain, Scott County Chapter 2,
Iowa.
Commander McMasters. Thank you.
Are we ready for the question? Mike 1.
Mr. William S. Goodwin. No. Bill Goodwin, Chapter 6, State
of West Virginia. On Resolution 209, stating where a member can
pay dues of $20 and be a full member for three years, I'd like
to understand that. I don't understand how that goes. It says,
``If a payment is not made during three full membership years,
he is not thereafter a member.'' We could have members be a
member of the organization for three years for $20, and after
three years, he'd come back in, pay $20 and be a member for
three more years.
Commander McMasters. All right. That's not a change in the
Bylaws, and that's not being considered. You can talk to
Charlie Luttjohann, and he'll explain that to you and what the
procedure is. But at this point, we are not amending that part
of the Bylaws, and so your remarks are out of order. That is
not a change at this point.
Mike 3.
Mr. John F. McCullough. Comrade Commander, on Resolution
214--John McCullough, Genesee Chapter 3, Michigan.
Mr. Goodwin. Sir, you say I'm out of order? How about 11.7?
You did amend that.
Commander McMasters. Mike 1, you're out of order. Mike 3
has the floor. Continue, Mike 3.
Mr. McCullough. On Resolution 214, does that include our
Forget-Me-Not drives?
Commander McMasters. The only change on that, John, is the
addition of the words ``subordinate units.'' The remainder of
it has already been part of the Bylaws at this point. That's
another one where you'd have to get a clarification, if you
need a clarification from someone. And you can ask that
question of probably just about anyone later on.
Mr. McCullough. Well, I keep seeing the word ``chapters''
in there, and this $5,000 figure, and we exceed that on our
Forget-Me-Not Drives.
Commander McMasters. That language has already been adopted
by the organization, and it is not being considered for change
at this time. The only change in that particular section is the
addition of the words ``subordinate units.''
Mr. McCullough. Thank you.
Commander McMasters. All right, Mike 1.
Mr. Donald M. Lindsay. Don Lindsay, Chapter 103, Houston. I
wonder why we refer to the Auxiliary as Women's Auxiliary in
several of these resolutions, beginning with 207 and going
through 215.
Commander McMasters. That one's pretty simple to answer. We
didn't get enough chapters to respond to the changes we tried
to make last year to the Constitution, and because of that, we
still must refer to the Women's Auxiliary.
Okay. Are we ready for the question now? All in favor,
signify by Aye; opposed. That's carried.
Okay. Let's consider 218. We had a question on 218.
Mr. Jack F. Feighner. Comrade Commander, Mike 1.
Commander McMasters. Mike 1.
Mr. Feighner. Feighner, Cincinnati 1. Resolution 254 is
strictly a housekeeping change of numbers. Let's pass that one
first. I move that Resolution 254 be adopted.
Commander McMasters. Is there support for that motion? Mike
3. I'm sorry. Jack, what we're going to have to do is have that
read. Are you asking for it to be read first and then we'll
consider it?
Mr. Feighner. Yes.
Commander McMasters. Okay. Let's do that. Tom, do you want
to read 254? We'll go through that, and then we'll come back to
218. Okay? Just be ready.
Mr. Daley. Resolution Number 254. Article----
Mr. Feighner. Comrade Commander, point of order. Mike 1.
Feighner, Cincinnati 1. While I agree that a change has to be
read completely, the only change in this is changing it from
Article 18 to Article 19, and I think if you read that, that's
all that needs to be read.
Commander. McMasters. Okay, sir.
Mr. Daley. Under that Section 19.1, that Corporate
Organization, Dissolution, Nomenclature, Seal, Section 19.1
under Article 19; directing your attention to Section 19.2, Use
of Members' Names and Addresses; Section 19.3, Rules of Order;
Section 19.4, Certificate of Merit; Section 19.5, Amendments of
Bylaws; Section 19.6, Captions; Section 19.7, Definitions and
Interpretation. All of this is just a readjustment of
numbering.
Commander McMasters. Mike 3.
Mr. George E. Morey. George Morey, Chapter 59, California,
delegate. Move to accept.
Commander McMasters. Okay. Moves the adoption of Number
254. Mike 2.
Mr. George H. Steese. George Steese, delegate, Chapter 1,
California, seconds that.
Commander McMasters. Okay. We have a motion and a support
to adopt Resolution Number 254. Are you ready for the question?
Ready for the question? All in favor, signify by Aye; opposed.
That's carried.
Now we will go back and consider 218. Mike 3.
I'm sorry. Was the objection at Mike 1?
Mr. Wiley. Yes, sir. Harold Wiley, Department of Washington
Chapter 46 delegate. My objection was the Section 18.2 on
restriction of accumulation. As I interpret this, this would
specifically prohibit a chapter or subordinate unit from
accumulating funds for a building for any length of time, and
it is very reasonable to assume that, if you are accumulating
funds for a building, it could exceed your previous budget for
two years very easily.
So I don't think this is reasonable.
Commander McMasters. I'm going to have National Adjutant
Wilson try to address your question.
Adjutant Wilson. I think what you're reading into that sir,
as long as those building funds don't exceed twice your last
year's expenses. That could be a sizable sum. So if you had a
building fund you were accumulating funds, so long as that fund
itself doesn't exceed twice the last year's annual expenses.
That's the intent of----
Mr. Wiley. Yes, sir, I understand that, and that was my
point specifically. For smaller chapters, they sometimes have
to accumulate funds for two to three years in order to buy
property and a building, and that is my point. And I will not
belabor this any more. I just want everyone to consider that,
because I believe you're putting a severe restriction there.
Commander McMasters. Mike 2.
Mr. Steese. George Steese, delegate, California. I move
that we adopt Resolution 218.
Commander McMasters. Mike 3.
Mr. Morey. George Morey, delegate, Chapter 59, California,
seconds that.
Mr. John Cunningham. Motion on the question.
Commander McMasters. I'm sorry. Mike 3 has the floor,
please. Mike 3.
Mr. Morey. Mike 3 moves to second that.
Commander McMasters. Okay. We have a motion and a second to
adopt Resolution Number 218. Mike 1.
Mr. Cunningham. John Cunningham, Chapter 49, New Jersey. On
18.2, ``Subordinate units may not accumulate funds, whether for
service purposes or otherwise, in excess of twice the expenses
of their last fiscal year.'' That does not tell you if they've
already had accumulated funds which are greater than that
expense what happens to those funds?
Commander McMasters. In this case, refer to 18.3.
Mr. Cunningham. But that only says that they shall not
accumulate it in the past fiscal year. If it's been accumulated
previous to that, then they should be able to keep it.
Commander McMasters. This is already in effect under
Regulation Number 9 as adopted by the NEC, all right? And it's
explaining later on, you're talking about all the accumulated
funds.
Mike 2.
Mr. Kenneth G. Musselmann. Ken Musselmann, past national
commander. I also served on the interim committee this year,
and just for a point of clarification, Commander, Section 18.3
addresses that. That's right below it. It says, ``Subordinate
units whose accumulated funds exceed the amount referred to in
Section 18.2 must comply with the Article by expending such
excess within a reasonable time.''
I think that addresses this gentleman's question.
Commander McMasters. Within a reasonable time.
Mr. Musselmann. That's what happens to the excess
accumulated funds.
Commander McMasters. Okay. Are we ready for the question?
You're ready for the question? All in favor, signify by saying
Aye; opposed. The motion is carried.
Mike 3.
Mr. Edward M. Swan. Commander, Ed Swan, Metro Detroit
Chapter 1. I would like for you to give me a recommendation on
what we should do about this problem.
Commander McMasters. Okay. I will talk to you about that at
some other time.
Mr. Swan. Okay. Thank you.
Commander McMasters. Thank you.
Mr. Daley. Commander, that completes the resolutions that
the committee recommended for adoption. I'd like to thank the
advisors, Fred Bristol, Ed Galian, Sally Wilson, and also the
members of the Constitution and Bylaws for their support for
these proposed changes.
Commander, I move that the committee recommendations be
accepted and that the resolutions be adopted, and that the
committee be dismissed with a vote of thanks.
Commander McMasters. Mike 2.
Mr. Steese. George Steese, California Chapter 1, seconds
that motion.
Commander McMasters. We have a motion and a second to
basically discharge the committee with a vote of thanks. Ready
for the question? Ready for the question? All in favor, signify
by Aye; opposed. It's carried.
Thank you, sir.
Ladies and gentlemen, please rise, and I'll ask the
chaplain to lead us in prayer.
Chaplain Wilkie. Commander, it's a pleasure today to
welcome a guest to the platform, Rabbi Saffra, the new
department chaplain of the State of New York. If I may, I'd
like to ask him to offer our prayer. Rabbi Saffra.
Rabbi Rafael Saffra. Thank you, National Chaplain Wilkie.
Let us pray. Sovereign of the universe, we thank Thee, O God,
for the deliberations this morning, for Your uplifting Spirit,
and Your guidance, and we ask You as this day proceeds to grant
us the wisdom and the good health as we enjoy the beauty of the
day, the camaraderie and the friendship of each other in Your
Holy work. And let us say amen.
Commander McMasters. The convention stands in recess until
Thursday morning at 9 o'clock. Thank you very much.
[Whereupon, the meeting recessed at 11 o'clock a.m., July
30, 1996.]
FINAL BUSINESS SESSION
August 1, 1996
The Final Business Session of the 75th National Convention
of the Disabled American Veterans convened in the Grand
Ballroom of the New Orleans Hilton Riverside, New Orleans,
Louisiana, Thursday morning, August 1, 1996, and was called to
order at 9:00 o'clock a.m. by Commander Thomas A. McMasters,
III.
Commander Thomas A. McMasters III. The convention will come
to order.
Please join me in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of
our country.
[Pledge of Allegiance.]
Commander McMasters. Chaplain, will you please lead us in
prayer?
Chaplain Wilkie. Once again, for a moment of silence, if we
may. There are a number of our comrades who are ill, some who
are in hospital here, have become ill since we arrived; others,
of course, who are at home; many whose names are inscribed upon
our hearts. Let's take just a moment of silence to remember all
of those who stand in need.
[Moment of silence.]
Chaplain Wilkie. We pause again today, Father, with glad
and grateful hearts, grateful that you have brought us through
a day of seminars where our minds have been enriched, where
we've been challenged, and where many have made deeper
commitments to service to our disabled American veterans. We
thank you for those who led the seminars and for those who
attended.
We thank you for the rest and for the fellowship we've had
this past day, for the rest of last evening, for the
refreshment of this morning. And now as we enter into this very
important day of business, once again I lift up our commander,
our adjutant and all of those to make reports. I lift up those
who are to be nominated for office.
Father, may all that is done in this day be to the glory,
to the honor of Your Holy Name and to the benefit of our
comrades wherever they are. Amen.
Commander McMasters. Please be seated.
Will you please welcome Reba Eslinger, Wisconsin, newly
elected president of the Commanders and Adjutants Association
for 1996-1997. [Applause.]
Ms. Reba Eslinger. Good morning. I would like to announce
the officers of the State Commanders and Adjutants Association,
and would you please stand. Sloan Hoopes is vice-president; for
the Executive Committee, Bill Brzezinski, Harry Yaukey, Jim
Tanner, Ray Chatary and Dorothy Schilling.
I would also like to announce the appointments, because
these are people that are going to be working with the
organization, and they have a lot to offer. Secretary-
treasurer, Dave Tannenbaum; judge advocate, Tom Daley; the
chaplain, Al Melton; sergeant-at-arms, William Novak. On the
Resolutions Committee, David Schiapo; June Springer, Stanley
Miller; on the Audit and Finance Committee, Irvin Eddy, Bob
Freitas and Tom Johns; on the Constitution and Bylaws
Committee, Ken Musselmann, Paul Pealer and David Goliver; and
then the Special Projects, Tom Campbell, James Stewart and
Wally Tyson.
That is our elected and appointed officers for the next
year for the State Commanders and Adjutants Association.
At this time, would Art Wilson come forward for a
presentation? Art, on behalf of the State Commanders and
Adjutants Association, I'd like to present you a check for a
thousand dollars for the National Service Foundation.
[Applause.]
Thank you.
Commander McMasters. At this time, I'm going to call on the
Imperial Rodent, Al Nowak, to present the newly elected
Imperial Golden Rodent, Curt Guiglaar.
Mr. Alfred W. Nowak. Thank you, Commander. National
Commander, National Adjutant, DAV members and guests: It is
with pride that I stand before you as the Imperial Golden
Rodent. With this pride, I can pledge that we, the National
Order of the Trench Rats, will, as in the past, continue to
support this great organization, the Disabled American
Veterans.
We were chartered in 1924 to support this great
organization by helping the widows and dependents of our
wartime disabled. I will do my best to see that we continue the
support in 1996-1997. To date, we have contributed $181,793.36
to the Legislative Fund; $22,450.33 to the Memorial Fund. And,
as in the past, we would like to contribute this check in the
amount of $4,000 to help continue the work in the many DAV
service programs.
During the period of 1995-1996, our dugouts' total
contribution to the many causes are as follows: DAV chapters or
state departments, $13,866; VAVS hospital, clinics and nursing
care units, $27,882.72; within the community, $8,711.18; VAVS
volunteer hours, 54,383 hours; VAVS events work, 316 events.
This is with only 70 percent of our dugouts reporting.
I will see that we stand before you in 1997 with even
greater figures. Thank you for allowing us this opportunity to
speak before you.
In addition to this check for $4,000, I would like to
present a check for $100 each for two of our deceased members
in past years.
WHEREAS, God has seen in His infinite wisdom to call to the
great beyond Kenneth G. Nowry, Imperial Golden Rodent Number
63, and Elmer E. Long, Jr., Imperial Executive Rat, District 9,
1995-1996; and
WHEREAS, they did, by their acts and diligence as imperial
officers help lead the National Order of Trench Rats to the
prominent position it holds today in the service of disabled
American veterans;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the National Order of Trench
Rats assemble at this 72nd National Rendezvous in New Orleans,
that we recognize the outstanding service by contributing a sum
of $100 each as a memorial to them to be placed in the trust
account of the Perpetual Rehabilitation Funds of the Disabled
American Veterans Service Foundation, the income of which shall
be used from time to time for the maintenance of the nationwide
rehabilitation activities of the Disabled American Veterans and
their dependents; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that their names be inscribed on the
memorial honor rolls so all may see and appreciate their
sacrifices and devotion to the cause of the Disabled American
Veterans as exemplified by Kenneth G. Nowry, Imperial Golden
Rodent 63, 1987 to 1988, and Elmer E. Long, Jr., Imperial
Executive Rate, District 9, from 1995 to 1996.
And I would like to introduce our incoming Imperial Golden
Rodent for a few words, Curt Guiglaar. [Applause.]
Mr. Curtis L. Guiglaar. Good morning, ladies and gentlemen.
I'm proud to stand before you this morning, and I pledge my
support to the Disabled American Veterans and my organization,
the National Order of Trench Rats. I feel, as all my brothers
do, that if the DAV needs some help, please call upon us; we'll
be there for you.
Thank you very much. [Applause.]
Mr. Norwak. Thank you. good day, God bless and have a safe
trip home.
Commander McMasters. They signed the important one; they
didn't sign the two minor checks, though. [Laughter.]
I'm formally announcing that the registration of delegates
is closed, and I'm going to call on the Credentials Committee
for their final report.
Mr. Barnett. Good morning. And this is the final report and
reflects the total registration as of 12:00 noon, July 31st,
1996. At the present time, we have 590 chapters, 50
departments, 27 national officers, 10 past national commanders,
for a total of 1,365 delegates, 52 alternates, for a total vote
of 10,753.
This completes the final report of the Credentials
Committee, Commander, and I move for its adoption.
Commander McMasters. There's a motion for the adoption of
the credentials report. Is there a second? Mike 2.
Mr. Sidney Bick. Sidney Bick, past department commander,
Illinois, delegate, Chapter 47, seconds the motion.
Commander McMasters. There's a motion and support. Are we
ready for the question? Are we ready for the question. All in
favor, signify by Aye; opposed. It's carried.
I'm going to call on the chairman of the Nominations
Committee for his report.
Mr. Dennis A. Joyner. Thank you, Commander. Comrade
Commander and delegates: The National Convention Committee on
Nomination of National Officers was called to order for its
first business session on July 29th, 1996 by Committee Advisors
Gene Murphy and William Leach.
The first order of business was the election of a
convention committee chairman. Dennis Joyner of Florida was
nominated for chairman. There being no further nominations,
nominations were closed, and Dennis Joyner was elected
chairman. The next order of business was the nomination and
election of a secretary. Michael Tempesta of California was
nominated and elected as secretary of the committee.
The committee interviewed 13 candidates over the next three
days. The following is the recommendation of the Nominating
Committee for the offices.
For the office of national commander, Gregory C. Reed of
Indiana; for the office of national senior vice-commander,
Harry R. McDonald, Jr., Florida; for the office of national 1st
junior vice-commander, William D. Wiggins of Virginia; for the
office of national 2nd junior vice-commander, Andrew A. Kistler
of Pennsylvania; for the office of national 3rd junior vice-
commander, Michael E. Dobmeier, North Dakota; for the office of
national 4th junior vice-commander, Richard Christopher of
Massachusetts; for the office of national judge advocate,
Edward G. Galian of New York; and for the office of national
chaplain, the Reverend Carl E. Bergstrom of Massachusetts.
Comrade Commander, this completes the report of the
Committee on Nomination of National Officers, and I move the
acceptance of this report and that the committee be discharged
with the thanks of the convention.
Commander McMasters. Mike 3.
NEC 1st District Alternate Drogo. Commander, I'd like to
second that motion on the acceptance of the Nominating
Committee. Frank Drogo, alternate National Executive
Committeeman from District 1.
Commander McMasters. We have the motion and the second.
Ready for the question? Ready for the question? All in favor,
signify by Aye; opposed. It's carried. [Applause.]
You have heard the report of the Committee on Nomination of
National Officers. They have nominated Gregory C. Reed form
Indiana for national commander. Here to second the nomination
is Jim Powers.
Mr. James S. Powers. National Commander, National Adjutant,
national officers, ladies and gentlemen: It is with great
pleasure that the Department of Indiana places the name of
Gregory C. Reed in nomination for the high office of national
commander for the DAV.
Greg was born in Indianapolis, Indiana and after graduating
from high school, enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in
1966. He subsequently served in Vietnam with the 3rd Battalion,
26th Marines and the 3rd Battalion, 4th Marines. It is while
Greg was serving with the 2nd Platoon, Lima Company, 3rd of the
4th, that he was wounded during a fire fight in Vietnam's Quang
Tri Province. Greg holds the Purple Heart, combat action
ribbon, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, and the Presidential
Unit Citation.
Following his discharge for active duty, he signed up in
the DAV as a life member of Dr. Worthington Chapter 3, while
pursuing and undergraduate degree at Indiana University. He has
served in a variety of elected offices at the chapter level,
including commander. After graduating from Indiana University
in 1972, Greg became employed as a national service officer and
remained in that capacity untill 1974, when he began graduate
studies at Butler University, where he began graduate studies
at Butler University, where he finished a master's degree in
1977. Since that time, he has worked in the field of
rehabilitation counseling, continually working with his fellow
disabled veterans.
While pursuing his educational goals, this candidate
continued to be active in the DAV at both chapter and
department level, culminating in 1980 as department commander
for the State of Indiana. Through continuing to function at the
department level in a variety of offices, including assistant
adjutant and Finance Committee chairman, he became increasingly
active at the national level as well.
Since 1981, his national responsibilities have included
appointments to the National Interim Employment Committee and
the National Interim Hospital and Medical Services Committee.
Mr. Reed has served two two-year terms on the DAV's National
Executive Committee and has been elected to national vice-
commander positions at four national conventions.
In addition to his DAV activities, Greg also holds
membership in the American Legion, the Military Order of the
Purple Heart. He is a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in
Indianapolis, and is a very proud father of two daughters,
Suzette, who is a critical care RN, and Melissa, who's recently
graduated from Indiana University and is employed as a
therapeutic recreational specialist.
Mr. Gregory C. Reed was very instrumental and has been the
main force behind Indiana's Homeless Veterans Stand-Down Meals.
We have fed over 3,000 veterans and families the past four
years. Mr. Reed has given of himself to include going out on
Christmas Eve, December the 24th, 1995 to deliver blankets,
clothes and food to the homeless and their families.
Mr. Reed was quoted in the DAV National Magazine issue of
March-April of 1996, ``Like most people, I was thinking about
being at home exchanging gifts with my family, but as I walked
along those abandoned railroad tracks toward where the homeless
men were living, I truly understood the meaning of Christmas
and what it is to give to others, not what we receive.''
Mr. Reed's guidance and dedication to Indiana's homeless
veterans and their families are a credit to the Disabled
American Veterans.
In summary, our candidate is committed to continuing the
legacy of this great organization with its continued
involvement in service work to this country's wartime disabled.
Additionally, Greg also desires more involvement among Vietnam
veterans at chapter level and a greater participation among
departments in community programs for veterans.
Thank you. [Applause.]
Commander McMasters. The Chair will now call for any
further nominations for the office of national commander. Are
there any further nominations for the office of national
commander? Are there any further nominations for the office of
national commander? Hearing none, I close nominations and
declare Gregory C. Reed elected as national commander, and
instruct the national adjutant to cast one unanimous ballot for
his election.
Adjutant Wilson. I, Arthur H. Wilson, national adjutant of
the Disabled American Veterans, hereby cast one unanimous
ballot for Gregory C. Reed for the office of national
commander. [Rising applause.]
Commander McMasters. The Nominating Committee has nominated
Harry R. McDonald from the State of Florida for the office of
national senior vice-commander. I will now call for any further
nominations for national senior vice-commander. Are there any
further nominations for the office of nations senior vice-
commander? Any further nominations for national senior vice-
commander? If there are no further nominations for national
senior vice-commander, I close the nominations and declare
Harry R. McDonald, Jr. of Florida elected as national senior
vice-commander.
The Nominating Committee has nominated William Wiggins from
Virginia for the office of national 1st junior vice-commander.
I will now call for any further nominations for the office of
national 1st junior vice-commander. Are there any further
nominations for nations 1st junior vice-commander? Any further
nominations for national 1st junior vice-commander? Hearing
none, I will close the nominations and declare William D.
Wiggins of Virginia elected as national 1st junior vice-
commander. [Applause.]
The Nominating Committee has nominated Andrew A. Kistler of
Pennsylvania for the office of 2nd junior vice-commander. I
will now call for any further nominations for the office of
national 2nd junior vice-commander. Are there any further
nominations for the office of national 2nd junior vice-
commander? Are there any further nominations for the office of
2nd junior vice-commander? If there are no further nominations,
I will now close the nominations and declare Andrew A. Kistler
of Pennsylvania elected national 2nd junior vice-commander.
[Applause.]
The Nominating Committee has nominated Michael E. Dobmeier
of North Dakota for the office of national 3rd junior vice-
commander. I will now call for any further nominations for
national 3rd junior vice-commander. Are there any further
nominations for national 3rd junior vice-commander? Are there
any further nominations for the office of national 3rd junior
vice-commander? If there are no further nominations, I will
close nominations and declare Michael E. Dobmeier elected
national 3rd junior vice-commander. [Applause.]
The Nominating Committee has nominated Richard Christopher
of Massachusetts for the office of national 4th junior vice-
commander. Are there any further nominations for national 4th
junior vice-commander? Are there any further nominations for
the office of national 4th junior vice-commander? Hearing none,
I will close the nominations and declare Richard Christopher of
Massachusetts elected national 4th junior vice-commander.
[Applause.]
The Nominating Committee has nominated Edward Galian of New
York for the office of national judge advocate. I will now call
for any further nominations for the national judge advocate.
Are there any further nominations for the office of national
judge advocate? Are there any further nominations for the
office of national judge advocate? Hearing none, I declare the
nominations closed, and I declare Ed Galian as being elected
our national judge advocate. [Applause.]
The Nominating Committee has nominated Carl E. Bergstrom
for the office of national chaplain. Are there any further
nominations for the office of national chaplain? Are there any
further nominations for the office of national chaplain? Are
there any further nominations for the office of national
chaplain? If there are no further nominations, I close the
nominations and declare Carl E. Bergstrom elected as national
chaplain. [Applause.]
I will now instruct the national adjutant to cast one
unanimous ballot for these officers.
Adjutant Wilson. I, Arthur H. Wilson, national adjutant of
the Disabled American Veterans, cast one unanimous ballot for
Harry McDonald for national senior vice-commander [applause];
William Wiggins for national 1st junior vice-commander
[applause]; Andrew Kistler for national 2nd junior vice-
commander [applause]; Michael Dobmeier for national 3rd junior
vice-commander [applause]; Richard Christopher for national 4th
junior vice-commander [applause]; Edward Galian for national
judge advocate [applause]; and the Reverend Carl Bergstrom for
national chaplain. [Applause.]
Commander McMasters. Thank you, Mr. Adjutant.
May we have the newly elected officers and their families
escorted to the stage, please?
We are now going to have Greg's daughters present him with
the hat. [Applause.]
It is my pleasure to present National Commander-Elect
Gregory C. Reed of Indiana for remarks. [Applause.]
Commander-Elect Reed. Thank you, Tom. Thank you, Suzette
and Melissa. I'm the proud father of those two young ladies
back here. [Applause.]
I'd like for all the members of the 13th District to please
stand., Indiana, Kentucky. Thank you. Without you, I wouldn't
be here. Thank you very, very much. [Applause.]
National Commander McMasters, National Adjutant Art Wilson,
honored guests, friends and delegates to the 75th National
Convention of the Disabled American Veterans: Winston
Churchill, the Prime Minister of Great Britain during the
darkest hours of World War II, once said, ``I never say, `It
gives me great pleasure to speak to any audience, because there
are only a few activities from which I derive intense pleasure,
and speaking is not one of them.' '' It was a rule he violated
only once.
At the Other Club, an informal group he organized to
discuss ideas and politics, a standard custom was a spur-of-
the-moment talk. From one hat the name of a member was drawn,
and from another a topic. Once, Churchill's name was drawn
along with the subject, sex. Churchill rose, and pointing to
the card began, ``It gives me great pleasure,'' and then sat
down. [Laugher.]
Like Mr. Churchill, I, too, am more than a little
uncomfortable with speaking in public. So, ladies and
gentlemen, I promise you that I shall be as brief as possible,
no matter how long it takes. [Laughter.]
I am truly honored by the opportunity to serve as your
national commander. It is a privilege that fills my heart with
gratitude and humility, an honor that inspires me to carry on
with hope and courage the great legacy of this organization we
call the DAV, a legacy that strives daily to help fulfill the
dreams of all of those who bear the scars of war.
I want to talk for a moment about something that concerns
all of us in the DAV. No, I don't mean sex. I want to talk
about getting involved, actively involved in your local DAV
chapter, and I particularly want to address my remarks to
Vietnam and post-Vietnam-Era veterans. As everyone knows,
people have been gathering together in groups for the benefit
of the individual for as long as, well, for a long as there
have been people, because as a group you can accomplish more,
exchange ideas, support one another and change things for the
better.
DAV members have been gathering, exchanging, supporting and
changing things for the better for disabled veterans and their
families for 76 years, and nobody does it better.
I learned so many of life's lessons while serving in the
Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, lessons embodied in the
phrases ``doing your duty goes beyond the call''; ``adversity
is the key to success.'' In other words, the more obstacles
that get tossed in your way, the harder you work to overcome
them. Disabled veterans and their families know all about
adversity and about overcoming obstacles, sacrifice and going
beyond the call.
Today, our nation finds itself on the threshold of a new
era. The long Cold War has come to an end, and America faces a
new horizon. The DAV faces new challenges as well. We all stand
at the dawn of a new century. Never before has unity been so
very important. The time when World War II and Korean veterans
stood as the active cornerstone in our chapters is fading. Many
of these veterans who championed our cause are no longer able
to remain as active as they would like, due to age and physical
limitations.
It is truly a time of rapid and sometimes troubling change,
and it is happening at a time when the current political
climate in our nation's capital is becoming extremely hazardous
to the health and welfare of disabled veterans and their
families. Americans learned long ago that the blessings of
freedom are never easy and never free. They must always be
defended.
In the desert, they call something you can see in the
distance but disappears once you get there a mirage. Next thing
you know, they'll call it veterans' benefits. Constant threats
of reductions, curtailments and outright elimination of
service-connected veterans earned entitlements and beneficial
Department of Veterans Affairs programs are fast approaching
reality in a changing and emotionally charged political
atmosphere.
One reason for this change? The diminishing number of
veterans in Congress is reducing the sensitivity of our elected
leaders to veterans' issues. Currently, little more than half
of all the U.S. Senators and a third of all Representatives are
veterans. The growing number of nonveterans in Congress
requires an ongoing commitment to educating its members.
Everyone understands that balancing the federal budget
requires sacrifice. However, it must never be forgotten what
veterans have already sacrificed when they answered their
country's call to defend our precious freedom. Today, with
fewer veterans in Congress, we must ensure that our elected
leaders understand that veterans' benefits are a continuing
cost of war and a debt never to be forgotten.
As President Lincoln pledged at Gettysburg to care for our
nation's veterans, today's Congress has an ongoing obligation
to honor that solemn promise. In its efforts to balance the
budget, Congress should not turn its back on those who have
given so much and only ask to be treated fairly.
Every generation of Americans inherits the complex work of
maintaining the greatest democracy the world has ever seen. Our
World War II and Korean War veterans and the families of those
veterans should feel a sense of enormous accomplishment. They
went beyond the call and maintained their watch with valor and
dignity. Because of what was achieved during World War II,
Historian Stephen Ambrose labeled the 20th the American
century. That generation of Americans born between 1900 and
1930 made victory possible. Without their sacrifices, it could
not have been done, he concluded.
Now that valiant generation of Americans is holding out the
cherished torch of service to Vietnam veterans and post-Vietnam
Era veterans as well. Their challenge must become our
challenge. Their spirit must become ours as well. We who are
the heirs of that legacy must also be the guardian of their
dreams. Now is the time for each of you to accept that torch
and carry its flame, brighter than ever before, into the
future.
Please consider this: Lots of local chapters have real
clout with their elected officials, and the bigger their
membership, the more that they are listened to. It's at the
chapter level that the true grass-roots service on behalf of
disabled veterans and their families takes place.
If you're not an active chapter member, you probably don't
appreciate how much of the load those big chapters and those
veterans are doing for you. Now that you know, the question is,
isn't getting involved in your local DAV chapter in your own
and your family's best interests?
Ultimately, all that any of us can do for the DAV is to do
our part during one time. We cannot rewrite the past, nor can
we guarantee the future. But we can and must be vigilant in the
time given to us. In order to succeed, we must stand united in
purpose and mighty in spirit as never before. The first and
great commandment is, don't be afraid. The DAV will endure, but
only if we stand up for it. Together we are one.
Departments and chapters that are constantly rejuvenating
themselves are a key ingredient into the future. A mix of older
and younger members is healthiest, both for the chapters as
well as this national organization. We all need to fight to
protect health care Programs for our older veterans. Similarly,
we need younger veterans to help energize the entire
membership. New volunteers are needed to carry the legislative
fights as never before. Each of us must continue the remind
Congress that we are still around, that we vote, that we know
the issues at hand. Together, we are one.
We must reemphasize that we are a vigorous, responsible,
nationwide organization that intends to keep fighting at the
polls and elsewhere for needed veterans' programs. Never again
should we allow those in Washington to cast votes against the
best interests of America's veterans.
While congressional leaders attempt to carry out their
``Contract With America,'' we must ensure that they are mindful
of another contract to which they have a moral commitment, a
contract with America's veterans. Together we are one.
I'm reminded of an old African proverb which says, ``The
gazelle must run faster than the fastest lion or be eaten, and
the lion must outrun the slowest gazelle or starve.'' It
doesn't matter whether you're lion or a gazelle. When the sun
comes up, you'd better be running.
As your national commander, that's exactly what I plan to
do. When the sun comes up each day, I'll be running to ensure
that our hard-earned benefits are protected; running to recruit
new members to our organization; running to educate the growing
number of nonveterans in Congress; running to strengthen our
ability to generate grass-roots support for legislative issues
that are vital to disabled veterans and their families; running
to help our homeless veterans living on the fringe of society;
running to eliminate the fear that too many widows of disabled
veterans feel as they struggle to make ends meet; running to
ensure adequate health care and compensation for those who have
contributed so much to preserve our way of life; running to
eradicate the barriers that separate many veterans from the
rest of our society. Running together with our families and
friends, we are one.
In closing, let me share with you a story that applies to
all of us who serve veterans. In ancient times, there was a
philosopher who had many disciples. One day, a cynical young
man decided to humiliate the philosopher by asking him a
question that be couldn't possibly answer correctly. The cynic
put a recently hatched chick in the palm of his hand and asked
the philosopher in front of a large audience whether what he
had in his hand was alive or dead.
His intention, if the philosopher said, ``Alive,'' was to
crush the chick to death and show the master to be wrong. If
the philosopher said, ``Dead,'' then he planned to let the
chick live to prove the great man wrong. In response to the
question, the philosopher looked the cynic in the eye, smiled
and calmly replied, ``The answer, my son, lies in your hands.''
Well, like that young man, the future of the DAV and all
the good things we stand for lies in our hands. Our actions
over the next few years will determine whether the DAV as we
know it today will be alive and will thrive, or only be a
memory. Just remember, together we are one.
God bless you and thank you very must for the honor you've
bestowed on me, [Rising applause.]
Commander McMasters. National Senior Vice-Commander Harry
R. ``Mac'' McDonald, Jr., would you care to say something?
[Applause.]
Senior Vice-Commander-Elect McDonald. Commander McMasters,
Commander-Elect Reed, national officers, distinguished guests,
members: It is indeed a pleasure for me to stand up here this
morning--I'm a little past the other age--to greet you and to
wish Commander Reed a very productive year. We have had three
great years, and I'm looking forward to the fourth one.
And would the Department of Florida stand up, please?
Without your support, it would have been impossible. I
appreciate it, and I appreciate all of your support. Thank you
very much. [Applause.]
Commander McMasters. National 1st Junior Vice-Commander
William D. Wiggins, would you care to say something?
[Applause.]
1st Junior Vice-Commander-Elect Wiggins. Commander
McMasters, Commander-Elect Reed, fellow members of the DAV: I
stand before you very humble today. Twenty-five years ago, I
never realized I would be standing here in this position, but
it feels great.
If Billy Hightower is in the room, would he please stand
up? Thank you. Billy Hightower is my sponsor, my dear fried for
many, many years, and I thank you for that, Billy.
For the Department of Virginia, our dynamic department
commander, June Springer; our department adjutant, David
Tannenbaum; Jim Clem; Rob Reynolds, many, many others, would
you stand up, all of you? [Applause.] I thank you for your hard
work in helping me with this. It's really appreciated.
And now for the 6th District, the greatest district in this
organization, if you can, would you stand up? [Applause.]
Thanks very much.
I pledge to Commander Reed my total support during the
next year.
And I have done this personally, but I would still like to
congratulate Commander McMasters for his outstanding year.
Thank you. [Applause.]
Commander McMasters. National 2nd Junior Vice-Commander
Andrew A Kistler. Would you care to say something, Andy?
[Applause.]
2nd Junior Vice-Commander-Elect Andrew A. Kistler.
Commander McMasters, Commander-Elect Reed and other line
officers: This is indeed a great pleasure, and I take great
honor in this, and thank you very much. And could the
Pennsylvania delegation please stand up? Thank you. Thank you.
[Applause.]
Commander McMasters. National 3rd Junior Vice-Commander
Michael E. Dobmeier. [Applause.]
3rd Junior Vice-Commander-Elect. I'd like to thank you, the
members, for the confidence that you've placed in me. I'd like
to thank the Nominating Committee for that same think. I'd like
to thank my Election Committee, the Department of North Dakota,
and the 14th District for their never-ending support. Would you
stand, 14th District? [Applause.]
I'd like to thank my family and my wife, Sandi, who's
always stood at my side. [Applause.]
You honored me by placing me in this line of distinguished
officers, and again this morning you honored me by allowing me
to continue. Rest assured that I don't take that for granted,
and I'll work very hard to earn the trust that you've placed in
me. Thank you. [Applause.]
Commander McMasters. I'll call on National 4th Junior Vice-
Commander Richard Christopher. [Applause.]
4th Junior Vice-Commander-Elect Richard Christopher. Thank
you, Commander McMasters. Newly elected Commander Greg Reed,
National Adjutant Wilson, line officers, members of the
Disabled American Veterans: It is indeed an honor for me to
stand here before you. You have given me this great
opportunity. Not only did I serve Massachusetts for 24 years,
but now I'm ready to serve you as a whole for the rest of my
life.
It is just a great feeling to be here. I look forward to
working not only with the staff, but with newly elected
Commander Greg Reed. My heart is with you. My heart is with the
DAV. I will give it my all. Thank you so much for giving me
this great opportunity to stand here before such a great body
of disabled veterans. [Applause.]
Could I please have District 1, who supported me all year,
from Massachusetts and the entire state please stand for a bow.
[Applause.] Thank you, gentlemen, for all your help.
And Commander, I want to thank you personally for an
outstanding job you've done and for what your friendship has
meant to me in the past eight years. Thank you very much.
[Applause.]
Commander McMasters. Newly elected National Judge Advocate
Ed Galian, would you like to say something? [Applause.]
Judge Advocate Galian. National Commander Tom McMasters,
III; Greg Reed, national commander-elect; National Adjutant
Arthur Wilson; all national officers; members of the Disabled
American Veterans; ladies and gentlemen: Thank you very much
for this great honor. I have been up here so many times, I'm
almost speechless, because I've said all the words time and
time again. I guess you've heard this before, but I feel a
little bit like Elizabeth Taylor's ninth husband on his wedding
night: I know what to do, but I don't know how to make it
interesting. [Laughter.]
My wife is here in the room. I saw her walk in. She's
performed a little task. She's joined Maria Tedrow and Barbara
Hicks in making a presentation in memory of Kit Seal Feighner
this morning, and she just got in, and I want to congratulate
her and the other girls who are with her for performing that
task in behalf of SONCO, which is the Spouses of National
Commanders Association that's very active at these national
conventions.
Janet, why don't you stand up and say hello. Everybody
knows you anyway, I think. She's over here. [Applause.]
I'd like to thank in particular all the members of the New
York delegation, which also comprises the 2nd District. Why
don't you all stand up and take a bow? These guys and gals,
they do a great job for the organization. [Applause.]
I won't say much more, because I want to hear Carl
Bergstrom but thanks again, and I'm with you all all the time.
Thanks very much. [Applause.]
Commander McMasters. I call on our newly elected national
chaplain, the Reverend Carl Bergstrom. [Applause.]
Chaplain-Elect Carl Bergstrom. Commander McMasters, newly
elected Commander Reed, National Judge Advocate, and to all
national officers and all delegates and friends today: I want
to thank you very much for your confidence in me, and I shall
endeavor to do the best I can to fulfill the office of chaplain
for the ensuing year.
I walk in great footsteps. Chaplain Wilkie has done a
tremendous job this last year, and I will endeavor to carry on
those things that he has started and carry them further.
We are not a religious organization. However, each of us
bears the mark of a religion. And so we respect one another,
and we work with one another as a team. And I shall endeavor to
go forth as one of the team.
There is a common denominator in our Judeo-Christian
culture and religious belief. Among our Jewish brethren, the
Shema Israel; for those of us, ``Hear O Israel, the Lord Our
God is One God, and you shall love the Lord.'' And we have
again added from a different point in Scripture, ``And you
shall love your neighbor as yourself.'' I shall endeavor to the
best of my ability to follow that law and keep it close to me.
If I can do that, then I can do the rest of the job as the
chaplain.
I would like to ask District 1 to stand again. They're
going to be the strongest people here, because they've stood up
and sat down. That was the rowdy bunch over there that you
heard earlier. So could I ask District 1 to stand? And I want
to thank you for all the support you have given to me.
[Applause.]
Thank you all.
Commander McMasters. We will continue with the unfinished
business of the convention. At this time, I will entertain a
motion to discharge the Credentials Committee. Mike1.
Mr. Salvatore Lo Sauro. Sal Lo Sauro, the past department
commander of New Jersey, representing Chapter 15, makes a
motion to discharge the Credentials Committee.
Commander McMasters. Thank you. Is there support? Is there
a second? Mike 3.
NEC McKeehan. Lowell McKeehan, Lavonia Chapter 114 from
Michigan, seconds the motion.
Commander McMasters. Okay. You've heard the motion and
support to discharge the Credentials Committee. Are we ready
for the question? Are we ready for the question? All in favor,
signify by Aye; opposed. That's carried.
I'd like to introduce some people from the Department of
Indiana for a presentation.
Member. Mike 1. Point of order. I believe we have to
dismiss also the Nominating Committee.
Commander McMasters. The Nominating Committee has been
already dismissed.
Member. I'm sorry. I was out of the room. Thank you.
Commander McMasters. Thank you for trying to keep us in
line here.
Commander-Elect Reed. Ken Kersey? There he is.
Mr. Kenneth C. Kersey. I want to congratulate Greg. We've
worked pretty close in Indiana with Greg being the first
Vietnam veteran elected state commander in Indiana, and I just
followed along and learned everything I could do from him.
At this time, I'd like to present Art Wilson, national
adjutant, with a check from Indiana to boost our membership,
get it started off the line. So here from Indiana is $40,000,
Art, to get our membership on the line. [Applause.]
Commander McMasters. I think that puts Indiana in first
place today.
At this time, I'd also like to request the members of
Prescott, Arizona Chapter Number 16 for a presentation.
[Applause.]
Member. Commander McMasters, Commander-Elect Reed, National
Adjutant Wilson: Among other things, I have the privilege of
being the hospital services coordinator at the Prescott VA
Medical center in the beautiful Grand Canyon State of Arizona.
Until recently, the DAV Winter Sports Clinic was little
more than a piece of paper that crossed my desk periodically.
Then the chief of recreation services called me one day and
said, ``Lee, I need help. I have a veteran that I want to send
to the clinic, but I'm short on funding.'' Upon determining
that this veteran was service-connected, our chapter provided
the needed assistance.
Naturally, when the veteran returned, I got feedback. I
have to tell you that I was utterly amazed at the level of
rehabilitation that had taken place in such a short period of
time. I did some checking, and I discovered that this event
appears to have been overlooked as chapters look for ways to
support service. In our current environment of financial
austerity, I've come to believe that supporting the DAV Winter
Sports Clinic gives you the best bang for the buck that there
is around. The positive advantages of participation are
essentially without parallel.
Therefore, DAV Prescott Chapter 16 has decided to adopt
this activity as part of our service to disabled veterans,
their widows, widowers, orphans and dependents. Mr. Commander,
I am honored to present our chapter check in the amount of
$2,500 in support of this most worthwhile endeavor. And I
encourage other chapters to consider a similar action.
Thank you and God bless. [Applause.]
Commander McMasters. Thank you.
I call on the national adjutant to read the list of the
newly elected members of the National Executive Committee.
Adjutant Wilson. NEC 2nd District, Sal Tornatore;
alternate, William Novak. NEC 4th District, Grover Penn;
alternate, Albert Church. NEC 6th District, Josue Saez;
alternate, Tom Johns. NEC 8th District, Charles Mills;
alternate, Hollis Bridges. NEC 10th District, Roger Jansen;
alternate, George Zoscsak. NEC 12th District, James Harris;
alternate, Desmond Fortner. NEC 14th District, Harry Vandemore;
alternate, Larry Bouska. NEC 16th District, Robert Salisbury;
alternate, George Steese. NEC 18th District, Michael Smaydy;
and alternate, Donald Schmitt. NEC 20th District, William Bone;
and alternate, Leonard Humes. [Applause.]
Commander McMasters. Thank you.
Adjutant Wilson. Those members have been elected to a two-
year term, 1996 to 1998.
Commander McMasters. The Chair will now entertain a motion
to adjourn the convention sine die.
Mr. Alfred Faticoni. Faticoni from Connecticut makes a
motion that we adjourn.
Commander McMasters. Is there support?
Mr. Russ Henderson. Russ Henderson, PDC Virginia, seconds
the motion.
Commander McMasters. All in favor, signify by saying Aye;
opposed.
Ladies and gentlemen, I'm going to call on Chaplain Wilkie
for the prayer.
Chaplain Wilkie. Commander, may I have just a moment of
special privilege? Thank you. I'd simply like to say a word of
thank you to all of you for the last few years of being your
chaplain. It's been a labor of love. I have never in may entire
life been a part of an organization nor around a group of
people that I love more and wanted to serve more than I've
wanted to serve you.
I think you've got one whale of a list of officers. I think
you've got a great person as your national chaplain. I just ask
you to get behind him and let's do more than hearers of the
word; let's be doers of it. Let's really get out and do the
work of taking care of each other.
Again, thank you for the high honor.
Let us pray. Again, how good it is, Father, that we can
assemble together in such fashion and know that you're with us.
Whether we're on the streets homeless; whether we're standing
before Congress, pleading with them to honor their contract
with the veterans; whether we're at any place at any moment,
yet the tie that binds us is always love of God, love of
country, of family.
How we thank you for the past. How we thank you for the
long line of splendor that has been ours that has deposited us
upon this place in history. Oh, we ask now, Father God, that
whatever that future holds, we may be ready to meet it with
confidence and with assurance. help us always to please to do
what is right.
Now go with us, be with these newly elected officers, be
with each of us as we go into that future with joyous and
radiant hearts ready to accept the challenge. Thank you,
Father. Amen.
Commander McMasters. Will the Color Guard please retire the
Colors?
[Retirement of Colors.]
Commander McMasters. Ladies and gentlemen, please join me
in thanking the Department of Massachusetts Honor Guard for
retiring the Colors and for their work here at our convention.
[Applause.]
Ladies and gentlemen, the 75th National Convention of the
Disabled American Veterans is now adjourned.
[Whereupon, the meeting adjourned at 10:15 o'clock a.m.,
August 1, 1996.]
=======================================================================
P R O C E E D I N G
of the
DISABLED AMERICAN VETERANS AUXILIARY
74th National Convention
New Orleans Hilton Riverside
New Orleans, Louisiana
July 27-August 1, 1996
=======================================================================
C O N T E N T S
__________
Opening Business Session, Monday Morning, July 29, 1996
Page
Call to Order, Adjutant Maria Tedrow............................. 277
Welcome.......................................................... 278
Introductions.................................................... 280
Credentials Report............................................... 281
Adoption of National Convention Rules............................ 281
Commander's Report............................................... 282
Membership Awards................................................ 285
Finance Committee Report......................................... 288
Educational Loan Fund Report..................................... 289
Committee Assignments............................................ 294
Recess........................................................... 299
Second Business Session, Tuesday Morning, July 30, 1996
Call to Order, Commander Barbara L. Hicks........................ 299
Credentials Report............................................... 300
First Reading of Constitution and Bylaws Amendments.............. 300
Presentation of Awards:
Americanism.................................................. 302
History...................................................... 303
Hospital..................................................... 304
Presentation from Chapel of Four Chaplains....................... 305
Continuation of Presentation of Awards:
Junior Activities............................................ 307
Legislative.................................................. 308
Community Service............................................ 309
VAVS......................................................... 311
Mae Holmes................................................... 312
Second Reading of Constitution and Bylaws Amendments............. 314
Announcements.................................................... 316
Recess........................................................... 317
Final Business Session, Thursday Morning, August 1, 1996
Call to Order, Commander Barbara L. Hicks........................ 317
Final Credentials Report......................................... 318
Nominating Committee Report...................................... 319
Nomination and Election of Officers.............................. 320
Introductions and Recognitions................................... 327
Installation..................................................... 329
Announcements.................................................... 330
Adjournment...................................................... 331
DISABLED AMERICAN VETERANS AUXILIARY
OPENING BUSINESS SESSION
July 29, 1996
The Opening Business Session of the Disabled American
Veterans Auxiliary 74th National Convention convened in the
Napoleon Room of the New Orleans Hilton Riverside, New Orleans,
Louisiana, Monday morning, July 29, 1996, and was called to
order at 9:25 o'clock a.m. by Adjutant Maria M. Tedrow.
Adjutant Maria M. Tedrow. Will the national sergeant-at-
arms please present National Commander Barbara Hicks to the
platform?
And now will the national sergeant-at-arms have the
national officers escorted to the platform: National Chaplain
Carol Gray; National Judge Advocate Shelia Allred; 4th Junior
Vice Phyllis Novak; 3rd Junior Vice Paula Raymond; 2nd Junior
Vice Evelyn Dorsey; 1st Junior Vice Evelynne Dunn; and Senior
Vice-Commander Margaret Hass.
And we have the Immediate Past National Commander Jane
Troutman. Would you please bring Jane up to the platform?
Now, will the national sergeant-at-arms have the past
national commanders escorted to the chairs in the front of the
room, please? Past National Commander Lucille McCarthy,
Florida; Past National Commander Pauline Wright of Colorado;
Past National Commander Nelda Wilson of Illinois; Past National
Commander Dorothy Van Hoy of Missouri; Past National Commander
Marjorie Vincent, now of Arizona; Past National Commander
Florence Valgardson of Utah; Past National Commander Maurine
Pederson of Missouri; Past National Commander Betty Hall of
Texas; Past National Commander Sally Wilton of Arizona; Past
National Commander Loneita Shoemaker of Arkansas; Past National
Commander Katherine Pearson of Minnesota; Past National
Commander Rose Schilpp of Missouri; Past National Commander
Claudia Roy from Vermont; Past National Commander Barbara
Maldet of Ohio.
And would you now please escort the National Convention
Chairman to the stage, Elaine Majors of Louisiana?
And now will the sergeant-at-arms present the National
Colors?
[Presentation of Colors.]
Adjutant Tedrow. And will the national sergeant-at-arms now
present the Colors of the various state departments? The first
colors are the State of Ohio in honor of our National Auxiliary
Commander Barbara Hicks.
[Presentation of Colors.]
Adjutant Tedrow. Will the national sergeant-at-arms at this
time post the National Colors?
[Posting of Colors.]
Adjutant Tedrow. We will now have the prayer by our
national Chaplain, Carol Gray.
Chaplain Carol Gray. Please join hands for a moment of
silence as we remember those families who have suffered because
of world tragedies, those who are defending the pursuit of
peace, and all of our members who are sick and suffering.
[Moment of silence.]
Chaplain Gray. We thank You, Lord, for the privilege we
have to gather here with our Auxiliary family. Be with
Commander Barbara as she leads us through this convention. May
all that we say and do here make us a stronger organization.
Let each and every thing we do show how much we care. Amen.
Adjutant Tedrow. The Pledge of Allegiance will be led by
our National Americanism Chairman Paula Raymond.
[Pledge of Allegiance.]
Adjutant Tedrow. And now our national musician, Erna B.
Smith, will play the National Anthem, and let's all join in.
[Singing of National Anthem.]
Adjutant Tedrow. And now will the national sergeant-at-arms
dismiss the national and state color bearers.
[Color bearers dismissed.]
Adjutant Tedrow. How do you like our little junior members
as pages? [Applause.]
The Constitution and Bylaws of the Disabled American
Veterans Auxiliary state that the supreme powers of this
organization shall be vested in the Annual National Convention
composed of the national officers and representatives of the
state departments and units. In accordance with these
directives, I, Maria M. Tedrow, National Auxiliary Adjutant,
declare the 74th National Convention of the Disabled American
Veterans Auxiliary be convened at New Orleans, Louisiana.
Consideration and disposition of business brought before
this convention shall be conducted in accordance with the
National Constitution and Bylaws and the Ritual of the Disabled
American Veterans Auxiliary as most recently amended.
To all present, take due notice thereof and govern
yourselves accordingly.
And now, one of the highlights of my few days here as
national adjutant at this convention is to introduce to you the
lady that you elected last year to lead this organization, and
she has done that. She has been very conscientious and
dedicated to the organization. It has been a privilege to serve
with her.
I would like at this time to present to you my National
Commander and your National Auxiliary Commander, Barbara Hicks.
[Applause.]
Commander Barbara L. Hicks. Thank you, ladies. It's been a
great honor to represent you this year. It's indeed been an
honor to represent you in my travels this year, and it's so
nice to see so many here. The room is full. That is just so
nice. And I do welcome each and every one of you here for this
convention.
The ladies have done an excellent job in their presentation
this morning. It is absolutely beautiful to stand up here as
the flags from the states come forward, to see the past
national commanders come up, to see the pages. It's just a
beautiful sight. That's why it was changed a few years ago so
the commander can enjoy the presentation as it comes down the
aisle.
At this time, I would like to introduce to you our
convention chairman, who has been working very hard this year,
for some remarks. Elaine Majors. [Applause.]
Mrs. Elaine Majors. Good morning. How you-all are?
[Laughter.] I can't talk French. I'm from North Louisiana.
Commander Barbara, line officers, Maria Tedrow, past
national commanders, delegates and all these ladies assembled
here at this convention in the great State of Louisiana in the
City of New Orleans: We are glad to have you here, and we are
proud that this was chosen as the state and the city, since
this is the 50th anniversary of the Department of Louisiana
Auxiliary. So we are proud of that. [Applause.]
Commander Barbara, on behalf of our department commander,
Elizabeth Ketchum, and all of the delegates and the ladies from
Louisiana, we want to wish you a successful convention.
And you ladies, we hope you have a good time, and we know
that you are going to leave some money, because we need it bad.
If we can assist you in any way, if it's at all possible,
we will be glad to help you. We have this little mask on. Some
of our Louisiana ladies didn't get one, and I'm in the dog
house. But you can see their badges, and we will assist if at
all possible.
Now, I have a few presentations I'd like to make. Maria,
you know the magnolia is the state flower of Louisiana, but in
North Louisiana, at a little town north of Shreveport, we have
a Dogwood Festival, and they grow wild in North Louisiana. So I
would like for you to have this print of the dogwood flower.
[Applause.]
And now, how many of you ladies when you call National
Headquarters, you ask Pat, ``Is Maria there?'' or, ``Can I
speak to Maria?''? And if she says, ``I'm sorry. Maria's out.
Would you like to talk to Judy?'' And I think probably most of
us--``Well okay. We'll talk to Judy.'' [Laughter.]
Judy is a lovely person and you couldn't ask anybody to do
any more than she does. If she doesn't know where, what or
when, ``I'll get back to you.'' And let me tell you, she does,
she calls you back.
So, Judy, I want to give you this. This is also made in
North Louisiana, too. See, we're going to North Louisiana
today. [Applause.]
Now, Commander Barbara, I have a little story behind this.
At our state convention in May, two of the guys, Paul Benoit
and Eddie Figueron--if you come to the Mardi Gras tonight,
you'll meet them--they had this plaque that they were going to
present to Commander Tom McMasters. And I said, ``Hey, our
Auxiliary commander needs one of those.'' So that was all, and
Eddie said, ``Well, I think I have one.'' But I never did hear
from him.
So a few weeks back, I was talking to Paul, and I said,
``Hey, Paul, I never did hear from Eddie about the plaque for
our Auxiliary commander.'' He said, ``Okay. Let me get with
Eddie, and I'll call you back.'' Next morning, Paul calls me
back. He says, ``Eddie and I had a serious discussion last
night.'' He says, ``We decided that you can pay to have the
plate put on there with the name. We'll donate the plaque, but
you're going to be indebted to us.'' [Laughter.]
So, when you look at this plaque--there's no telling how
many years it'll take me to get it paid for [laughter]----
Commander Hicks. As long as that's you that's indebted
instead of me.
Mrs. Majors. So, Commander Barbara. [Applause.]
Commander Hicks. I think that would be worth being indebted
for. Thank you so much.
Mrs. Majors. It has, ``Barbara L. Hicks, National Commander
Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary, New Orleans, Louisiana,
27 July, 1996.''
Commander Hicks. Thank you. [Applause.]
Mrs. Majors. Now I have one more. Jane Troutman, would you
come up, please? You know, we're going to take care of all the
business of this Auxiliary session and this convention, but
we're going to have some free time, so Jane, when we get
through with this convention, what are we supposed to do?
Mrs. Jane Troutman. I'm from the South, too, so I can't
say, ``Let the good times roll'' like Barbara Maldet did.
Mrs. Majors. Maybe I should get Barbara to say that. I
can't say it either.
Member. Laissez les bon temp roullez.
Mrs. Majors. Thank you, Gertie. See, Gertie had the
assignment at our state convention in May. Jane was our
representative. And I assigned Gertie to teach Jane how to say
that by this convention. So I don't know what happened.
Anyway, just so you're going to learn this and so that you
will not forget it, here. There is a shirt. [Applause.]
Thank you, ladies, and we hope you enjoy it, and then we'll
get down to our serious business. Thank you. And it has been a
pleasure to serve with these ladies as the convention chairman.
Oh, wait a minute. Let me tell you, my ladies from
Louisiana, I can't say enough. They have been fantastic in
getting ready for this convention. I've had some chairmen and
I've had the ladies volunteering, and everybody has been
working. And so all I can say is, all my Louisiana ladies stand
up. They have been fantastic. [Applause.]
Thank you, and I love you all.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Elaine. We know that there's a
lot of work that goes into these national conventions. And
believe me, when we come, we appreciate every hour that you've
all put into it.
I would like to at this time introduce a very, very special
group of ladies. They, through the years, have built our
organization, and it's indeed an honor to introduce the past
national commanders: Lucille McCarthy; Pauline Wright; Nelda
Wilson; Dorothy Van Hoy; Marjorie Vincent; Florence Valgardson;
Maurine Pederson; Maria Tedrow; Betty Hall; Sally Wilton;
Loneita Shoemaker; Katherine Pearson; Rose Marie Schilpp;
Shelia Allred; Claudia Roy; Barbara Maldet went back to the
office; and Immediate Past National Commander Jane Troutman.
[Applause.]
Katherine, would you like to come to the podium, please?
Mrs. Katherine Pearson. Thank you, National Commander
Barbara. Thank you for giving the past national commanders a
little time to tell you how much we care. We want to
congratulate you on a wonderful year. Your leadership--no
matter where you went, you found Barbara, even up in the
snowcapped mountains in Colorado. That was an experience that
she highly recommends.
And we are very proud of her work, her accomplishments and
each and every one of you that you cared enough to do the
little things that she asked you to at the last convention. So
we're very proud of that.
And I'm going to tell you, Barbara, that soon you will be
one of us. But it has to be voted on, and you've got a great
group of women here that's going to pass that vote. And so
we'll let you know. [Laughter.]
I just wish that each and every one of you will care enough
when you go into the committees to share a little thought, a
little idea so that our programs can grow, service for the
present time and lay the foundation for the future. Good luck
to each and every one of you.
Thank you, Barbara. [Applause.]
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Katherine.
Now may we have a preliminary report of the Credentials
Committee, please.
Member. Good morning. Madam Commander, this is the
Credentials report for July 29th, 1996. The following units
have not yet cleared for voting. A representative from that
unit must report to the Auxiliary Headquarters Office in the
Eglinton and Winton Room on the second floor. Arkansas 62;
California 58; California 73; District of Columbia 1; Florida
12; Florida 28; Florida 72; Florida 109; Louisiana 15;
Massachusetts 29; Massachusetts 97; Michigan 2; Mississippi 54;
Nevada 12; New York 118; Pennsylvania 14; Rhode Island 13;
Texas 63; Texas 106; Texas 220; Vermont 17; West Virginia, 8;
Puerto Rico 6; Hawaii 1..
The total units registered, 331; total departments
registered 35; the total, 366. Delegates registered, 631;
alternates registered, 38; guests, 90; a total of 759. Total
unit votes, 2,074; total department votes, 35; national
officers, 8; past national commanders, 11. The grand total of
votes, 2,128.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Dorothy. Do I have a motion to
adopt this? Past National Commander Shelia Allred made a motion
to adopt the report. Is there a second, please? And ladies,
please go to the microphones. The recorder has to hear.
Mrs. Joan F. Fletcher. Joan Fletcher, Unit 20, Glendale,
Arizona. I second it.
Commander Hicks. All in favor; opposed. So ordered.
The first order of business is the adoption of the National
Convention Rules. Printed copies of the Convention Rules have
been furnished to all registered delegates. The Chair will now
entertain a motion for adoption of these Rules.
Mrs. Virgina Mitchell. Madam Commander, Virginia Mitchell,
Unit 80, Alabama. I so move that we adopt the Convention Rules.
Commander Hicks. Is there a second, please?
Mrs. Barbara E. McVicker. Barbara McVicker, Unit 2, Kansas
City, Missouri, I second the motion.
Commander Hicks. All in favor; opposed. So ordered.
Margaret, would you please take over the chair for the
purpose of my giving my report, please?
[Whereupon, Senior Vice-Commander Margaret E. Hass assumed
the chair.]
Senior Vice-Commander Margaret E. Hass. Thank you,
Commander, Barbara. I welcome this opportunity to express for
all Auxiliary members our sincere thanks for your sincere
dedication to our veterans and to our Auxiliary. You have had a
fine year, and we look forward to hearing your report.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Margaret.
National Officers, national chairmen, National Executive
Committee, past national commanders, national staff, members
and guests: Through the years, I have heard national commanders
talk of their year. I thought I was ready for my year. How
wrong I was! There is no way anyone can know the feeling of
pride, honor and yes, responsibility until you walk in the
commander's shoes. Every time I represented our organization, I
did so to the best of my ability, with dignity and humility.
Last year I said how wonderful it would be if we could
reach 200,000 members. Our national membership goal for the
1995-96 membership year was 187,002 members. As of June 30th,
we had 192,832 members. That's a plus of 5,824 members.
[Applause.]
Six states made their national membership goal, and two
asked me to put their membership ribbon on the state banner. I
was honored to perform this request at their state conventions.
Every state department is to be commended for their super
efforts toward building our membership strength this year. No
words can express the fantastic efforts on the part of our
recruiters and congratulations to all of our Recruiting
Incentive Program winners.
I also want to personally thank the National Auxiliary
staff for their fantastic efforts on all of our mailings and
their promptness in computerizing all new memberships.
To Evelynne Dunn, our National Membership chairperson,
thank you, thank you, thank you for an outstanding job. We did
it, ladies. [Applause.]
Now I would like to take you on a journey through my year
as your national commander. And you really, really were with me
every journey I made. You were with me when I journeyed to
Hawaii with National Adjutant Maria. We represented the
Auxiliary at the 50th anniversary remembrances of the Japanese
surrender that formally ended World War II. You were with me as
I placed a wreath at the National Memorial Cemetery of the
Pacific.
When National Commander McMasters and I placed the flowers
from our leis in the water at the USS Arizona, I placed the
string from my lei in my billfold. It has been in my billfold,
and, ladies, it has traveled many thousands of miles. When I
leave this convention, it will go to my history chairman to put
in my history book. I always carry it as a reminder of my year
as your commander and to remember a generation that sacrificed
so much for our freedom.
As I attended state department conferences and visit
nationwide from Minnesota to New Mexico, from Florida to
California, and most points in between, pride in the Auxiliary
was apparent everywhere. From the statewide weekend that the
DAV and Auxiliary members visited every VA medical center in
Massachusetts, to a whirlwind tour of Auxiliary services in
Utah, service disabled veterans and their families was the
hallmark of our Auxiliary activities.
Amid the serious business conducted during these visits and
conferences, there was a lot of fun and memories, too. Memories
like being recognized as a special guest during a performance
in Utah by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, to being guest of honor
at an American Essay Contest recognition dinner in Missouri,
love and dedication highlighted every state's events.
No commander's year would be complete with our Auxiliary
Fall Conference. Members attending the conference in Dayton
last year had the opportunity to learn from the experience of
others and share their experience. I was so pleased to see
experienced Auxiliary leaders training the next generation of
Auxiliary leaders. It was a fun and rewarding experience.
I encourage all of you to attend this year's exciting
three-day event in Louisville, Kentucky. The 1996 Fall
Conference will be held at the beautiful Galt House East in
Louisville, September 26th through 28th. Yes, be sure to bring
your husbands, too. They had a good time and learned a lot
about our Auxiliary last year.
In October, while visiting the Auxiliary in New Mexico, I
had the moving experience of visiting the DAV Vietnam Veterans
National Memorial at Angel Fire for the first time. Though it
was already snowing there, one cannot help but be warmed by the
beauty of this soaring monument to the men and women who died
or were disabled while serving our nation in that far-off
country.
At the National VAVS Service Meeting in Chicago, seminars
and workshop were tremendously informative. The experience of
attending this meeting with so many other service organizations
dedicated to helping veterans and their families was exciting.
You quickly learned that a lot of good people and a lot of
organizations are working toward the same goal. Of course, no
one does it better than our Auxiliary. [Applause.]
Veterans Day in Alabama demonstrated the patriotism that
runs so deep in our culture. Everyone from school children to
factory workers turned out to honor our nation's veterans.
As Auxiliary members, we stand beside the DAV in the battle
to build better lives for disabled veterans and our families.
Our Auxiliary is there in spirit and force, representing
disabled veterans, their families, widows and orphans before
all branches of our government.
At the 1996 Midwinter Conference in Washington, D.C., I
joined Commander Tom and other members of the DAV national
staff at the DAV's presentation before the Joint Session of the
Committees on Veterans' Affairs. Not only is this an honor;
it's an example of the partnership the Auxiliary shares with
the DAV in all endeavors.
I was also pleased to be asked to address the Commanders
and Adjutants Association by Association President Tom
Campbell. It was an opportunity to build an even greater
understanding of our joint mission, service to disabled
veterans and their families. Every opportunity to work with the
DAV builds our common bonds.
March was a fun month. I attended Commander Tom's
testimonial dinner in Michigan and had a great time. Later that
month, he attended my testimonial dinner in Ohio. His gracious
remarks demonstrated his love and appreciation of our
Auxiliary.
I want to thank all of you for my testimonial dinner. It
was a joyful and tearful occasion. Listening as my children,
Jacki and Jeff, said so many wonderful things about me made me
glow with pride. I'm so proud of them.
Our youth are so important. They are our future. As I
watched our Auxiliary National Junior Miss lead the Pledge of
Allegiance, I realized even more the importance of working with
our future generation of Auxiliary leaders. The Juniors are an
important part of many Auxiliary functions.
I am so proud to say my granddaughters, Nicole, Tiffany and
Megan, are members of our Junior Auxiliary. As such, they are
learning the functions and purpose of our Auxiliary. One day,
they will lead our organization, and I am confident they will
be prepared for the task, just as our lovely Juniors have
demonstrated this morning.
I call on every unit to involve your junior members. They
are the future, and we must prepare them for this.
On the snow-covered slopes of Crested Butte, Colorado, I
witnesses miracles. At the 10th National Disabled Veterans
Winter Sports Clinic, I watched men and women struggle down
those slopes with joy on their faces. This is difficult,
because this was very, very moving to me.
I realized that as a result of their sacrifices, DAV and
Auxiliary volunteers help to make this miraculous event
possible every year. Every event at the clinic, from wheelchair
basketball to scuba diving, is an adventure. If you can
possibly do it, I implore you to be a part of this adventure in
the years to come.
There's so much I wanted to add to this, but I knew I
couldn't read it.
Later in the year, I helped a hard-working Finance
Committee spend countless hours setting up our next year
Auxiliary budget. We often take our committees for granted, but
I can tell you: Things go right in our organization because of
committees' hard work.
A week after the Finance Committee finished, the
Educational Loan Fund Committee met. I am happy to report that
38 loans were granted. Imagine! We were able to help 38 people
further their education through this program. But without your
help, this would not have been possible.
Memorial Day with Grafton, West Virginia, Unit 24, was
simply unbelievable. In a town of just under 2,000 people, they
hosted an event that saw more than twice the population in
attendance. During the two-day event, ceremonies were conducted
at West Virginia National Cemetery and Grafton National
Cemetery. The two national cemeteries are located nearly 20
miles apart, but the local veterans organizations do a
fantastic job making the memorial ceremonies so successful.
They also host a huge parade, and I mean huge, even by the
large cities' standard. People come from everywhere to see the
parade. It is not an event that Unit and Chapter 24 could do on
their own, but cooperating with other service organizations,
the West Virginia Department of Veterans Affairs and the City
of Grafton, they do a fantastic job. It's a classic example of
joining forces and working together.
I was so impressed with their Memorial Day event that I
assure you, I will go back again.
After attending department conventions in Oregon and
Montana prior to the Memorial Day, I didn't think things could
get much busier for me, but they did. In May and June, I was
home for one weekend. The rest were spent at fantastic
department conventions in Oklahoma, New Jersey, Wisconsin, New
York and Puerto Rico. Warm welcomes, great fun and serious
business went hand in hand at every convention. Thank you ail
for making me a part of your events, ladies.
It has been a wonderful and very busy year. For our next
national commander's information, my busy year included
traveling 61,702 miles, visiting 25 states, Puerto Rico and
Washington, D.C., enjoying every minute of it.
My last event before arriving for our National Convention
was the DAV van drive-away at National Headquarters on July
11th. It was impressive, to say the least, 141 new Ford vans
leaving for VA medical centers in 35 states and Puerto Rico,
with one mission, to transport sick and disabled veterans to
and from VA medical centers for needed medical care.
The drive-away was made possible through the combined
efforts of the national organization, the departments, chapters
and units working together to raise the necessary funds to
purchase the much-needed vans.
Yes, it has been a wonderful and busy year, but I wouldn't
trade it for anything. I want to thank each and every one of
you for all you have done to make my year so fantastic. Love
and prayers, and always remember, little things we do show we
care. [Applause.]
Senior Vice-Commander Hass. Commander Barbara, that was
indeed a fine report.
Do I hear a motion to accept Commander Barbara's report?
Mrs. Dorothy Van Hoy. Past Commander Dorothy Van Hoy. Move
that we accept the report.
Senior Vice-Commander Hass. Motion has been made. Is there
a second?
Mrs. Sandra Schulman. Sandi Schulman, Department of New
Jersey, seconds that motion.
Senior Vice-Commander Hass. Motion has been made and
seconded. All those in favor, say Aye; same sign, opposed. The
motion carried.
Thank you, Barbara. [Applause.]
[Whereupon, Commander Hicks resumed the chair.]
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Margaret.
I believe it's time for membership awards. I would like to
tell everyone that monetary awards are given each year in the
categories instead of plaques to the first-place winner, and
that the checks will be mailed out from National Headquarters
after the convention. The checks will be in the mail.
[Laughter.]
At this time, we will now have the membership awards by our
National Membership chairman, Evelynne Dunn. [Applause.]
1st Junior Vice-Commander Evelynne Dunn. Good morning,
everyone. Madam Commander, national officers, past national
commanders, members and guests of the Disabled American
Veterans Auxiliary: I would like you to know what a privilege
it was to serve as Membership chairman this year. It's been a
wonderful year, especially reaching national quota. And I want
to thank National Headquarters for all the dedicated work that
they performed in getting all those letters out, 600,000
letters plus to potential members.
It was an exciting time for us, to realize that national
quota had been reached, and I hope you share my enthusiasm for
all the work that was done, not only by National Headquarters,
but by all the ladies out there. Because I know you were out
there pushing membership. I know that for a fact.
I'll give you the numbers in a few moments. What I want to
do is present the awards. If you'll bear with me, I'll have it.
From Group 1, 10 to 50, there was a tie: D. A. Nocera, 65
Arizona, 33 members increase. Is there a representative from
that unit, D.A.--Arizona, D. A. Nocera, N-o-c-e-r-a Number 65,
Arizona? Can I have someone from Arizona pick this award up for
them?
We are going to straighten this out and move to the next
one.
Adjutant Tedrow. We'll check this out. First mistake today.
If you believe that, you'll believe everything.
1st Junior Vice-Commander Dunn. The next award is Group 2,
51 to a hundred, Hanover Township 177, New York, 15 member
increase. [Applause.]
Mrs. Jeanne Le Porte. I'm the commander for the State of
New York. I'll accept this for the ladies in Hanover 177.
They're a very hard-working group of ladies. Thank you.
[Applause.]
1st Junior Vice-Commander Dunn. Group 3, 101 to 200,
Lieutenant Alfred Lucia 118, New York, 55 member increase.
[Applause.]
Congratulations again.
Mrs. Le Porte. Thank you. This is one of our newest units
in Brooklyn, and the gentleman who is the award winner for the
nation for membership is the one that helped start this unit
for us, and we're very pleased that they have been so
cooperative in helping us get this unit going. Thank you.
[Applause.]
1st Junior Vice-Commander Dunn. Group 4, 201 and over,
Walter Rohr Memorial Number 35, New York, 148 member increase.
[Applause.] A hundred and forty-eight members, ladies, that's a
great total.
Member. Thank you so much. And I'd like to give a special
thanks to our state commander, Jeanne Le Porte, who made it all
possible. Thank you. [Applause.]
1st Junior Vice-Commander Dunn. Now we'll go to Group
Number 5, the new unit with the most new members. Metro Number
7 with 35 members. Anyone here from Alaska? Well, that will be
mailed to them.
Group Number 6, department with the largest percentage
increase. Also, the State of Alaska. [Applause.] So those
awards will be mailed to them.
Group Number 7, department with the largest numerical
increase. The State Department of New York. [Applause.]
Here comes that lady again, New York. Congratulations.
Mrs. Le Porte. Thank you again. And ladies, I want you to
know, it's done by mailing, by getting membership from the
National Headquarters. So it's out there for all of you to do
if you want to. [Applause.]
1st Junior Vice-Commander Dunn. We're going to go back to
the first one. We had a kind of a little mix-up here. Group 1,
10 to 50, D. A. Nocera 65, Ohio. [Applause.] I know there's
somebody here from Ohio. Would you accept this for these
ladies? [Applause.] This was a 33 member increase.
Member. I do want to say something about this unit. When I
was state commander for Ohio, I went to visit this unit, and
they were meeting in someone else's house, and when I first
went, they had five members. And they promised me they would
work on membership, and they did. And I will be glad to give
this to them, because one of their husbands is here for the
meeting, and I'll be glad to turn this over so they can take it
home. Because this is a very special unit of hard-working
ladies that are trying to start, and they're very dedicated,
and this will make them very, very proud. Thank you.
[Applause.]
1st Junior Vice-Commander Dunn. Now we have the special
membership award. Number 1. These ladies signed up the most
members. Fifty-eight new senior members, Marcia Mills, Ohio
Number 43. [Applause.] Is she here?
Commander Hicks. Ladies, in the past few years, Marcia has
been the one that has won this National Membership Award for
signing up the most members. See, she really does exist.
[Applause.]
Mrs. Marcia Mills. I just want to thank everyone for making
this award possible, and if all of us in this room today stand
hand in hand, this Auxiliary will flourish and grow, and the
veterans will be better off with our help. Thank you.
[Applause.]
1st Junior Vice-Commander Dunn. And this second special
membership award, 27 new senior members, Janet Walters in
Indiana Number 19. [Applause.]
Mrs. Janet Walters. I'm very proud to take this back to
Unit Number 19, Elkhart, Indiana. Thank you.
1st Junior Vice-Commander Dunn. Ladies, when it comes to
membership, the progress and growth of our organization are the
results of each person taking responsibility for their share of
the tasks necessary for the Auxiliary to go forward. Many
thanks to Montana, New York, Ohio, Utah, Wyoming, Alaska and
New Hampshire for reaching quota during this banner year.
So ladies, let me ask you a question. Don't you think that
we need to celebrate reaching national quota? [Applause.]
Louder, ladies, louder. So, let's celebrate!
[Video presentation.]
1st Junior Vice-Commander Dunn. Thank you very much, Madam
Commander. Thank you, ladies. That was a great celebration.
[Applause.] And that completes my report.
Commander Hicks. Isn't that great that we had this to
celebrate? I'd like to thank each and every one of you who
signed up one member, who's done something maybe to transfer a
member over from annual to life. Whatever you have done to work
on membership, I certainly do congratulate you. This is
something that not one individual can do alone. It takes each
and every one of us to work on membership, and we must keep
these numbers up.
We have to have the number count in Washington to fight for
our benefits, and it's up to each and every one of us to see
that they are protected. Thank, you ladies. [Applause.]
Would Jan Bennett, chairman of the Finance Committee,
please come forward for the Finance Committee report and the
adoption of budget. I think you each received one.
Adjutant Tedrow. They are out there to be passed out.
Anybody that does not have a copy of the budget, please put
your hands up. Would the sergeant-at-arms see some more budgets
are passed out, please?
Commander Hicks. Ladies, I want to tell you how hard this
staff works on membership while they're passing these out. I
was down at the office one day. I live about 125 miles from
National Headquarters, so I pop in regardless of what my title
might be. I pop in every once in a while. I walked in one day,
and there's like three of their big desks, they've got long
trays about this long, and they're stacked about this high on
all the tables. Each tray holds approximately a thousand
letters.
These girls, ladies, in this office, have to open those, go
through, read your notes, take the checks out, if there are. If
there's a problem, they have to see that that is taken care of.
Plus separating, because we were having our renewal notices at
the same time that this mass membership mailing went out.
And I want you to know if for ever one second you hesitate
or doubt the capability of that office, don't. They work many
hours. Some of this is done after the hours that they are open.
They take time to go through and put these in the tray and see
that they are taken care of. It is a fantastic office that we
have. [Applause.] Very, very efficiently run, and each and
every person that works there is qualified for not only the job
they do, but they can do all of the jobs.
Are we still passing out or are we ready for Jan to read
this?
NEC 18th District Janet W. Bennett. Good morning, ladies.
National Commander Barbara, national officers, past national
officers, delegates and guests of the Disabled American
Veterans Auxiliary: The National Finance Committee met on
Saturday, April the 28th, 1996 at the Drawbridge Inn in Fort
Mitchell, Kentucky. In attendance at this meeting was National
Commander Barbara Hicks; Betty Nelson, NEC from District 2;
Vicky Grier, NEC from District 9; E. Jimi Hayes, NEC from
District 5; and myself, Janet Bennett, NEC from District 18.
Also present without a vote were Senior Vice-Commander
Margaret Hass; National Adjutant Maria Tedrow, who served as a
very capable recording secretary; Assistant National Adjutant
Hezlep; and Head Bookkeeper Sandi Smith.
The purpose of this meeting was to set the National
Auxiliary budget for the year 1996 and 1997, based on
anticipated income from the memberships. After reviewing the
1995 and the 1996 income, expenses, assets, liabilities, the
committee proceeded to prepare the proposed budget. A copy of
this budget was either given at the door or recently given to
your as your entered this morning.
At this time, I offer a motion to accept the budget for the
year 1997.
NEC 9th District Vicky L. Grier. Madam Commander, Vicky
Grier, Georgia Unit 10. I second the motion.
Commander Hickes. The motion has been made and seconded to
accept our budget. All in favor; opposed. Motion carried.
Pardon? Oh, I'm sorry. Was there any discussion, now that
you've accepted it? [Laughter.] Thank you.
NEC 18th District Bennett. Thank you. National Commander
Barbara, I would like to thank you and the Finance Committee
for electing me as your chairman, The past two years have been
a great honor and a wonderful experience. Thank you, Barbara.
National Adjutant, Maria, thank you for all your expert
guidance and gracious hospitality, which enabled us to carry
out our duties without undue delay. Thank you, Maria.
Finally, I would like to acknowledge and commend the ladies
of the Finance Committee for doing a great job. I would like
you to stand as I call your name, please: Betty Nelson, NEC,
District 2 [Applause]; Vicky Grier, NEC, District 9 [Applause];
E. Jimi Hayes, NEC, District 5. [Applause.]
Ladies, I thank you for all your support, your cooperation
and your wonderful friendship. It's been a great year. Thank
you very much. [Applause.]
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Jan. And thanks to everyone who
served on the committee.
Phyllis Greaney, director of the Educational Loan Fund,
would you come up to give your report now, please? Good
morning, Phyllis.
Mrs. Phyllis Greaney. Good morning. Thank you, Barbara.
This will be very brief, because I understand--okay. Maria has
told me that the report has already been sent to all the
states. So I'm just going to be very brief and tell you some of
the highlights.
The Education Loan Fund Committee met on Sunday, May 5th,
1996. The committee members this past year were National
Commander Barbara Hicks, Immediate Past National commander Jane
Troutman, Senior Vice-Commander Margaret Hass and myself.
National Adjutant Maria Tedrow, Assistant National Adjutant
Judy Hezlep and Past National Commander Barbara Maldet attended
our meeting and were very helpful.
We granted, as Barbara told you, 37 student loans for the
academic year 1996-97. As you know, a student must be a full-
time student attending schools of higher learning, college,
universities or vocational schools. Their grades mut be no
lower than a 2.0 average, which is equivalent to a B minus.
We are aware that in these time, it is very difficult for
parents and students to afford college education, and what we
give to it helps them very much. They have to go to many other
sources to complete the amount that is necessary for a college
education.
We depend on mandates, contributions form state
departments, chapters, units of the DAV and the DAVA,
individual and memorial contributions in order to continue to
help our students. And this is where I need all of you.
The National Educational Fund is a very important program
of the Auxiliary. We are assisting families of disabled
veterans through our membership in the DAVA and its programs.
I would like to emphasize the important dates to remember
for those who may be interested or knows someone who is
eligible and interested in receiving a loan. These dates are
March 1st and April 25th. The application for a loan must be
requested no later than March 1st for the next academic year,
and a completed application must be received and postmarked no
later than April 25th. All correspondence should be sent to me
or to the Educational Loan director, whomever that may be, at
the National Headquarters of the Disabled American Veterans
Auxiliary.
I understand from talking to some of you, that the units
don't always tell the chapters about our programs, and I do
think it's very important that they know all about each of our
programs. and I hope when you leave this convention, that you
will share some of the knowledge that your receive here about
all of our programs, so that they can be up to date and know
exactly what we're going to do for their families.
Again, I say thank you for your kind consideration, and I'm
going to turn the program back over to Barbara. [Applause.]
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Phyllis, for your report and
the many hours that you do put into this.
Donations for the programs, the Ed Loan, Service Support
Fund, whatever, we will have at this time, please. Hoping that
there are some.
Member. From the Department of Michigan, I'm glad to donate
this check to our chairman.
Commander Hicks. Ladies, I'm going to please ask for you to
be quiet during this, because everyone takes time to have their
state bring something, the units or whatever, and they do need
the recognition. They need your cooperation so that they can be
heard as they make their presentation, please.
Mrs. Betty Boyd. I'd like to donate this in memory of my
husband, Scoop Boyd.
Mrs. Hannelore Ciccarelli. I'm Hannelore Ciccarelli,
Department of Kentucky. Barbara, I would like to present to you
this check in the amount of $250 from the Department of
Kentucky, and I hope that maybe next year we can do better. We
want you to know that we support our youth.
Commander Hicks. Thank you.
Mrs. Karen E. Espinosa. I am Karen Espinosa, commander of
DAV Auxiliary Department of Arizona, and I am pleased to
present a check for the Freedom's Foundation and also for the
Education Loan Fund for the Department of Arizona.
Commander Hicks. Thank you.
Mrs. Virginia Mitchell. I'm Virginia Mitchell from Alabama.
A few years ago, my husband and I started a small savings for
just this kind of thing. He's gone now, but at this time I
would like to present a check to the Educational Loan Fund as
part of the money that we dispense every year.
Commander Hicks. Thank you very much.
Mrs. Le Porte. I'm Jeanne Le Porte from the Department of
New York. We have checks for $510 for the National Loan Fund
and $510 for the National Service Foundation. Thank you.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, New York.
Mrs. Nelda P. Blaylock. I'm Nelda Blaylock from Arkansas.
I'm the department state commander, and I'd like to present a
check to the Educational Loan and also to the Service Support
Program.
Commander Hickes. Thank your, members of Arkansas.
Mrs. Patricia a. McCool. I'm Patricia McCool from Unit 56
in Arkansas, and I have a check for Freedom's Foundation and
the Education Loan Fund.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, members of Unit 56.
Mrs. Oliver Manning. Olive Manning, department commander,
State of Vermont, a check for the Education Loan Fund.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Vermont.
Mrs. Mary J. Bessette. Mary Bessette from DAV Auxiliary
Unit 17, South Burlington, Vermont, a hundred dollars for the
Service Fund.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Unit 17, Vermont.
Mrs. Andee Silver. I am Andee Silver, Department of
Pennsylvania commander. We'd like to donate money to the
National Education and the Service Fund.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Pennsylvania.
Mrs. Virginia Reinagel. I'm Virginia Reinagel. I represent
Shelby County Number 70, Memphis, Tennessee. I have one check
for $200 for the Educational Loan Fund; one for $300 for the
Service Foundation; and $100 for the Freedom Foundation.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Tennessee Unit 70.
Mrs. Isabel Kirsct. I'm Isabel Kirsct from Dallas, Big D
57, and we have a check for the National Service Fund and the
National Scholarship Fund.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Big D 57.
Mrs. Marilyn Hess. Marilyn Hess, senior junior vice,
Department of Iowa Auxiliary. I have some money here for the
Hospitalized Veterans Writing Project, the Freedom Foundation,
the Educational Loan Fund and the Service Project.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Iowa.
Mrs. Virginia Howard. Virginia Howard, DAVA 32, Dallas,
Texas. A check for the Freedom Foundation and for the National
Education Fund.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Dallas Unit 32.
Mrs. Carolyn S. Reed. Carolyn Reed, Department of Ohio
commander. Two checks, one for the Educational Loan Fund and
the Freedom Foundation.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Department of Ohio.
Mrs. June Becker. June Becker, Unit 49, Department of New
Jersey. A hundred dollars for the Loan Fund.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Unit 49, New Jersey.
Mrs. Betty Bergquist. I'm Betty Bergquist, Auxiliary
commander for the Department of Kansas, and I have a check here
for the National Service Fund.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Kansas.
Mrs. Mae H. Johnson. Mae H. Johnson, senior vice-commander.
I'm donating a check for the Auxiliary. Thank you.
Commander Hicks. Freedom Foundation. Thank you, Department
of Kansas.
Mrs. Carolyn Johnson. Carolyn Johnson, commander,
Department of Tennessee. I have a check for $400 for the
Education Loan Fund and a hundred dollars for the service Fund.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Department of Tennessee.
Mrs. Dorothy Kashner. Dot Kashner from the State of
Delaware, from the Department of Delaware, and we have for the
Education Fund.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Department of Delaware.
Mrs. Estella Watts. Estella Watts from the Department of
Georgia, and we have a hundred dollars from the department, and
we have $25 left over from our Central Area meeting, so we
added that, too, to the Educational Loan. And we also have $125
for the Service Fund.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Department of Georgia.
Mrs. Edith C. Hinds. Edith Hinds from George H. Seal
Memorial Unit 23 in the State of Maryland.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Maryland, Unit 23.
Mrs. Roberta Bullen. Roberta Bullen, commander of the State
Department of Maryland. I have three checks: Educational Loan
Fund, Freedom Foundation and the Auxiliary Service Support
Program.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Department of Maryland.
Ms. Lillian Van Galen. Lillian Van Galen from the
Department of Massachusetts Auxiliary commander. I have two
checks, one for $300 from the Department of Massachusetts, and
one from our senior vice. I also have three other checks for
the National Service Fund: $225 from the Department of
Massachusetts and $100 from our senior vice-commander; and we
have another one for $5.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, everyone in Massachusetts.
Mrs. Wanda Furbish. Wanda Furbish, department state
commander of New Hampshire. I'd like to present you this check
for the National Education Fund.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, members of New Hampshire.
Mrs. Sharon A. Kramer. Sharon Kramer, department of
adjutant. I'd like to donate this on behalf of the Department
of Minnesota.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Department of Minnesota.
Mrs. Miriam A. Daley. I'm Miriam Daley from Somerville 27
in Massachusetts, and I bring a donation from Donna Tanner of
Unit 115; Fran Costa for the National Service Fund and Loan
Fund from 56; and from Margaret Karinsky in memory of her
sister, Past National Commander Florence Daley.
Commander Hicks. Thank you again to the department members
from Massachusetts.
Mrs. Kim James. I'm Kim James, department of commander of
the State of Indiana, and I have a check for the Education Loan
Fund.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, members from Indiana.
Mrs. Ruth Spell. I'm Ruth Spell from Chapter 5. I have
three checks: one for National Service Program, Freedom
Foundation and the Loan Fund.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, members of Unit 5, Mississippi.
Mrs. Pat Vigil. We are from Murphy Borelli Number 7,
Denver, Colorado. I am Pat Vigil and Rosemary Dye. We have a
check for $200 for the Education Fund.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Colorado Unit 7.
Mrs. Nancy E. Chaplin: I'm Nancy Chapin. I'm the senior
vice-commander for the State of Idaho, and I'd like to present
a check to the Foundation Fund and the Support Program.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, members from Idaho.
Mrs. Carolyn Fudge. I'm Carolyn Fudge. I'm from Quad City
Unit Number 53 in Granite City, Illinois. We have a check for
the Freedom Foundation.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, members of Unit 53, Illinois.
Mrs. Carrie Hickman. Carrie Hickman from the State
Department of Florida. I have a check here for the National
Auxiliary Service Fund for a thousand dollars.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, members from Florida.
Mrs. Renee Jones. Renee Jones, state commander of North
Carolina, and on behalf of the delegates who are here, we wish
to make this donation to the Ed. Loan Fund.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, delegates from North Carolina.
Mrs. Donna Horton. Donna Horton, national sergeant-at-arms,
and this is from the delegates at the national convention.
Thank you all. The Educational Loan Fund.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, each and every one. There will
be many, many people helped in all of the donations that have
been received here this morning, regardless of to whom they
were given.
Mrs. Greaney. I'd like to extend my thanks, too, to all of
you. It is a very worthy cause. Thank you, (Applause)
Commander Hicks. Thank you again, Phyllis, for your many
hours of work.
Maria has some things she would like to say. And these will
be totaled, ladies, and later during the convention, you will
know what the totals of the donations were.
Adjutant Tedrow. At this time, I would like to just speak a
little bit about the Service Support Program. Now, we aren't
going to pass anything out. But I want you to know it's
important that I keep you informed because statistics are one
thing, and correspondence is another and we made it very plain
that when this fund started that you would never ever know the
recipient's name, but you would always know who gave the
donation, and we have continued to be true to that.
However, you're familiar with the address labels that were
sent out to the various members all through the country, and in
a lot of those letters we not only got donations, but stories
of financial need and everything. And, of course, when they
came in, they were put on my desk, and I sat down and wrote
special letters to these people, because, you know, I didn't
know how much their need was, or if they were just telling me
politely, ``Here it is, but don't send me any more.'' I felt
that this was necessary, and we've gotten an awful lot of
response back. Your money has been working.
What amazes me is that a large portion of these expenses
are going for burials.
I brought just a little bit of correspondence to you, and
they're addressing me in the letter, but I want you to know
they're only addressing me in the letter because I wrote the
letter, but I wrote the letter on behalf of everybody who has
given to this Service Program.
It's a great program. Of course, right now, you know, it's
limited as to who can benefit from it. I'm hoping that it grows
and grows so that we can make any woman eligible if she needs
it, whether there's a veteran in the household or not.
[Applause.]
But if you will just bear with me just a couple of minutes.
This was one such letter that I sent because we had gotten the
address labels and she'd written such a nice letter, and said:
Dear Miss Tedrow: Thank you for your letter which brought
tears to my eyes, for you showed what a wonderful person you
are in caring about someone who you have never met, and also
for enclosing the forms and telling me how I was to fill it out
if there was a need. My husband's lengthy illness and the fact
that he made me face reality has endured me these last ten
years, five of which I spent crying and unable to cope.
However, I am now self-reliant and independent and face each
day with new hope and confidence. In those ten years, I can
recall only one time in which I ate peanut butter sandwiches
and tea for one month every day so that I could pay my bills on
time. I live and maintain a very strict budget, and unless an
unforeseen emergency occurs, my months are routine. My home,
which I maintain, hanging from an attic window with one hand
and a paintbrush in the other, shows that with determination I,
too, can do what every other widow has had to endure. I have
had several part-time jobs. ``Part-time?'' ``Part-time? you
ask. Yes, mainly so that I can come home and shovel snow and
mow the lawn and maintain the appearance so that I can be proud
of it.
At this time of year, my mail consists of appeals which I
cannot contribute to, but the DAV always receives something, no
matter how small, because I do get a small widow's allotment,
which I'm extremely grateful for.
However, at this time, I am not sending back the forms since
I have not asked for any assistance of any kind, and I'm trying
to prove that I can make it on my own, and I'm doing fine.
However, believe it or not, I can sleep better at night
knowing that should I get in a financial position and need
assistance, I only have to call on you and the members of this
organization Thank you.
[Applause.]
Commander Hicks. Makes the dollars we donated all the more
worthwhile.
Maria is going to now announce our committee assignments.
Thanks for the wonderful job you do for our service support.
Adjutant Tedrow. We all do in the office, but it's great to
get some letters, and I think once in a while you can
appreciate the fund more if you know something. And, of course,
I have various letters where they thank us. I have one here
today that she didn't even care if her name was released, but I
do. But you are helping, believe me, you know.
And it's a program, along with the Ed. Loan, that we can
really see some benefits. And hopefully, through your ideas and
everything, we can come up with other programs that can be just
as valid and just as bit and just as important so that we say
DAV Auxiliary, they'll know who we are.
Okay, Let's got to Americanism. Now, I think the chairmen,
I hope, picked up the folders in the office. But these are the
people that will be serving on the Americanism Committee, and
I'm going to call them out right now. We've got from District
1, Donna Tanner of Massachusetts, Unit 115. District 2 would be
Irene Boron, New York 1. District 3 is Wanda Furbish, New
Hampshire 4; District 4, Idella Hosier, New Jersey 9; District
5, Evelyn Edmond, Pennsylvania 14; District 6, Piekielniak--is
that close enough? Okay, Mary. From Virginia 2.
District 7, Dolly Hartman, Florida 94; District 8,
Elizabeth Ketchum, Louisiana 30; District 9, Barbara Buckley,
North Carolina 27; District 10, Gwen McCracken, Michigan 51;
District 11, Judy Uetterling, Ohio 36; District 12, Nancy
Colby, Illinois 53; District 13, Donna Hatfield, Kentucky 19;
District 14, Sharon Kramer, Minnesota 28; Marilyn Hess, Iowa
20; District 16, Elsa McCoy, California 19; District 17, Betty
Conrad, Utah 8; District 18, Lellie Williams, Arizona 11.
And unless they're come up with someone, I do not have
anyone for District 19, District 20, Joyce Humes, Texas 114;
and District 21, Pat McCool of Arkansas 56.
The advisor--and I would hope that she would stand at this
time--the advisor is Paula Raymond, and I would hope that the
chairman stands. The chairman that has been selected is Gwen
McCracken. And you will meet in the Wyndham Room.
Let's go to Community Service. District 1, Fran Costa,
Massachusetts 56; District 2, Kathleen Tedesco. New York 120;
District 3, Jacqueline Smith, Maine Number 1; District 4, Rose
Henn, New Jersey 32; District 5, Mary Tunstall, Pennsylvania
14; District 6, Justine Dingus, Virginia 22; District 7, Sue
Reed, Florida 126; District 8, Everlene Cody, Alabama 87;
District 9, Ruth Koon, Georgia 10; District 10, Ethel White,
Michigan 2; District 11, Marj Davies, Ohio 50; District 12,
June Marheine Wisconsin 2; District 13, Norman Zeimet, Indiana
26; District 14, Miriam Kiser, Minnesota 1; District 15, Mae
Johnson, Kansas 34; District 16, Florence Swisher, California
113; District 17, Janet Derby, Colorado 1; District 18, Karen
Espinosa, Arizona 16; District 20, Nancy Laurence of Texas 56;
and District 21, Sara Douglass of Arkansas 5.
The advisor to Community Service is Phyllis Novak. Please
stand. The chairman for this committee will be Kathleen
Tedesco. And it will be--according to this, it says Trafalgar
Room.
I'm sorry. Americanism. Americanism goes to Windsor, not
Wyndhan. Windsor on the third floor.
Community Service goes to Trafalgar on the third floor.
Okay. Now let's go to History Books. Good Luck! District 1,
Annetta Boisvert, Massachusetts 13; District 2, Barbara Yenzer,
New York 109; District 3, Jeanne Gideon, New Hampshire 7;
District 4, Joan Kepfer, Delaware 1; District 5, Sonia Baldwin,
Pennsylvania 98; District 6, Annis Craft, Virginia 2; District
7, Vera Sorrentino, Florida 129; District 8, Zelma Orr, Alabama
24; District 9, Barbara Williams, Georgia 10; District 10,
Barbara McComb, Michigan 13; District 11, Jackie Sayre, Ohio
22; District 12, Zona Schalow, Wisconsin 5; District 13,
Carolyn Vogel, Indiana 19; District 14, Elaine Fagerstrom,
North Dakota 24; District 15, Beverly Bain, Iowa 2; District
16, Marie Bowan, California 5; District 17, Margaret Arneson,
Utah 6; District 18, Sandra Thayer, Arizona 16; District 20,
Mary Choate, Texas 42; District 21, Mary Pinney, Oklahoma 3.
And they will meet in the Jasperwood on the third floor.
Most of these rooms are on the third floor, by the way. Advisor
of History is Ann Jones. Ann, would you please stand? And the
chairman of the History will be Zona Schalow. Zona, are you in
the room? There she is, way back there.
This is the Convention Committee on Hospital. District 1,
Louise Barrett, Massachusetts 40; District 2, Lucita Christian,
New York 35; District 3, Gerry Young, Vermont 7; District 4,
Melva Matlack, New Jersey 41; District 5, Angie Ofiesh,
Pennsylvania 53; District 6, Ellen Griggs, West Virginia 6;
District 7, Gayle Flewwellin, Florida 109; District 8, Joe
Henry, Tennessee 116; District 9, Elizabeth Overcash, North
Carolina 75; District 10, Kathy Drako, Michigan 129; District
11, Virginia Gleason, Ohio 36; District 12, Betty Buck,
Illinois 28; District 13, Ella Tyler, Indiana 19; District 14,
Karen Haan, Minnesota 1; District 15, Olevia Dillon, Nebraska
12; District 16, Connie Salisbury, California 94; District 17,
Arlene Snider, Colorado 32; District 18, Barbara Bradford,
Arizona 1; District 19, Edith Minor, Washington 46; District
20, June Bradford, Texas 220; District 21, Nan Klee, Arkansas
61.
The advisor for Hospital is Grace Nagel. Is she here? There
she is, right back there. And the chairman will be Gayle
Flewwelin of Florida. Is she here? Would you stand, Gayle? And
that will be in the Ascot Room.
Let's go to Junior Activities. Okay. Junior Activities.
District 1, Janet Clark. Massachusetts 115; District 2,
Patricia Weinert, New York 5; District 3, Olive Manning,
Vermont 1; District 4, Doris Martelli, New Jersey 32; District
5, Rose Graffius, Pennsylvania 36; District 6, Neva Langston,
Virginia 27; District 7, Bernadette Sorrentino, Florida 30;
District 8, Fran Stringer, Louisiana 23; District 9, Barbara
Souders, North Carolina 5; District 10, Minda Dewilder,
Michigan 38; District 11, Marcy Mills, Ohio 43; District 12,
Karen Eccles, Illinois 3; District 13, Kim James, Indiana 19;
District 14, Rose Erpelding, Minnesota 35; District 15, Mary
Pealer, Missouri 17; District 16, Dixie Robertson, Louisiana
113; District 17, Angie Duran, New Mexico----
[Inaudible comment from the floor.]
Adjutant Tedrow. District 16? Where is Dixie Robertson
from? California, Dixie? Thank you very much. Okay, so District
16, Dixie Robertson, California. What unit, Dixie? One one
three. Just got the wrong state.
District 17, Angie Duran, New Mexico 3; District 18,
Kathleen Packer, Arizona 8; District 19, Nancy Chapin, Idaho
23; District 20, Sally Jones, Texas 84; District 21, Mary
Roden, Arkansas 62.
The advisor is Linda Trulio. Linda, are you here? She's way
back there. And the chairman for that is going to be Mary Roden
of Arkansas. And you're going to meet in the Rosedown Room on
the third floor.
Mae Holmes. District 1, Florence Curley, Massachusetts 97;
District 2, Betty Nelson, New York 47; District 3, Ann Kelley,
New Hampshire 7; District 4, Dorothea Campanelli, New Jersey
63; District 5, Sadie Turner, Pennsylvania 14; District 6,
Gladys Seda, Puerto Rico 1; District 7, Grace McLaughlin,
Florida 113; District 8, Eunice Eledge, Tennessee 94; District
9, Amy Adcock, South Carolina 30; District 10, Joann Slotman,
Michigan 14; District 11, Libby Fancher, Ohio 63; District 12,
Nellie Smithee, Illinois 3; District 13, Jan Walters, Indiana
19; District 14, Annette Bain-Wilson, Montana 4; District 15,
Bonita Mitchell, Missouri 2; District 16, Marie Zamacona,
California 144; District 17, Susan Miller, Colorado 6; District
18, Barbara Davison, Arizona 1; District 19, Denise Vietz,
Washington 18; District 20, Clara Lewis, Texas 47; and District
21, Peggy Nye, Oklahoma 49.
The advisor on Mae Holmes is Margaret Hass. Margaret, would
you please stand? And the chairman for the Mae Holmes will be
Libby Fancher of Ohio. And you will meet in the Oak Alley Room
on the third floor. Okay?
The next one is Legislative. District 1, Ellen Drogo,
Massachusetts 29; District 2, Terry Carlucci, New York 150;
District 3, Maxine Clark, Vermont 7; District 4, Florence
Kehne, Delaware 8; District 5, Mildred Furlong, Pennsylvania
77; District 6, Wanda Voyles, Virginia 2; District 7, Mary Jane
Dickmyer, Florida 108; District 8, Carolyn Johnson, Tennessee
116; District 9, Estella Watts, Georgia 56; District 10,
Deborah Emery, Michigan 129; District 11, Carolyn Reed, Ohio
35; District 12, Betty Bumpus, Illinois 28; District 13, Maxine
Archer, Indiana 15; District 14, Frances Benkovics, Minnesota
10; District 15, Betty Bergquist, Kansas 4; District 16, Ruth
De Sando, California 11; District 17, Shirley Wright, Utah 8;
District 18, Judy Leiby, Arizona 1; District 19, Juanita Wiley,
Washington 46; District 20, Patsy Mitchell, Texas 194; and
District 21, Sharon Eddy, Oklahoma 32.
The advisor to this committee, which is Legislation, is
Evelyn Dorsey. The chairman will be Judy Leiby of Arizona.
Judy, are you in the room? And you're going to meet in the
Belle Chasse, and that also is on the third floor.
I'd like to explain the reason I'm reading the unit numbers
also is for our stenographer.
We're almost done. Let's go to the VAVS Committee. District
1, Miriam Daley, Massachusetts 27; District 2, Janet Willett,
New York 1; District 3, Harriet Anderson, Rhode Island 13;
District 4, Viola Penn, Delaware 3; District 5, Cathy Watkins,
Pennsylvania 50; District 6, Ann Graybell, West Virginia 6;
District 7, Myra Ferguson, Florida 13; District 8, Cornelia
Cobb, Alabama 70; District 9, Aliene Warchak, Georgia 9;
District 10, Bernice Sebring, Michigan 11; District 11, Sherry
Price, Ohio 43; District 12, Barbara Curtis, Illinois 24;
District 13, Irene Sablic, Indiana 15; District 14, Marilyn
Vigen from Minnesota 9; District 15, Deloris Daniels, Missouri
51; District 16, Lillian Furlanich, California 144; District
17, Becky Lovato, New Mexico 3; District 18, Sunny Narcaroti,
Arizona 16; District 20, Isabel Kirsct, Texas 57; and District
21 is Dee Huber of Oklahoma 5.
And your advisor is Lillian Nason. Lillian. She's right
there in the back. And the chairman to that committee is going
to be Cathy Watkins.
Jean, do you want to come up here to the mike? I can't hear
you.
Member. District 2 is Jane Willett, not Janet.
Adjutant Tedrow. I have Janet typed.
All right. You know Lily Nason and Cathy Watkins is your
chairman, and you are going to meet in Elmwood on the third
floor.
And like I said, I do want to apologize for the way I'm
pronouncing some of these names, because some of them I'm not
real familiar with.
And like I said, I don want to apologize for the way I'm
pronouncing some of these names, because some of them I'm not
real familiar with.
Let's go to Nominating Committee. District 1, Phyllis
Greaney, Massachusetts 10; District 2, Jeanne Le Porte, New
York 30; District 3, Grace Boland, Rhode Island 3; District 4,
Frances Banghardt, New Jersey 2; District 5, Andee Silver,
Pennsylvania 96; District 6, Mary Parrish, D.C. 5; District 7,
Deloris Roussey, Florida 4; District 8, Virginia Mitchell,
Alabama 80; District 9, Vicky Grier, Georgia 10; District 10,
Gloria Boozer, Michigan 20; District 11, Edith Cottrill, Ohio
31; District 12, Nelda Wilson, Illinois 8; District 13,
Hannelore Ciccarelli, Kentucky 1; District 14, Katherine
Pearson, Minnesota 10; District 15, Dorothy Van Hoy, Missouri
2; District 16, Melba Morgan, California 22; District 17,
Florence Valgardson, Utah 1; District 18, Donna Sellers, Nevada
1; District 19, Kathryn Wiley, Washington 46; District 20,
Louise Rapisand, Texas 10; and District 21, Gertrude Tidwell of
Oklahoma 60.
And the advisor to this committee will be the immediate
past commander. Jane Troutman. This committee will elect its
own chairman, and you will meet in the Norwich Room on the
third floor.
The very last one, Constitution and Bylaws. District 1,
Lillian Van Galen, Massachusetts 115; District 2, Dolores
Robidoux, New York 185; District 3, Ann Young, New Hampshire 7;
District 4, June Becker, New Jersey 49; District 5, Rhea Lynn,
Pennsylvania 4; District 6, Ardalia Taylor, D.C. 3; District 7,
Lucille McCarthy, Florida 4; District 8, Susan Henry, Tennessee
116; District 9, Renee Jones, North Carolina 18; District 10,
Addie White, Michigan 86' District 11, Joyce Hutchinson, Ohio
63; District 12, Bernie Errett, Illinois 15; District 13,
Joanne Laws, Kentucky 19; District 14, Judith Steinhouse, North
Dakota 8; District 15, Rose Schilpp, Missouri 2; District 16,
Joan Turbeville, California 58; District 17, Jean Jackson,
Colorado 26; District 18, Shirley Kosisky, Arizona 8; District
19, Esther Westlake, Washington 45; District 20, Betty Hall,
Texas 9; and District 21, Loneita Shoemaker of Arkansas 7.
The advisor to this committee will be Shelia Allred, and
you will elect the chairman, and you will be located in the
Newbury Room on the third floor.
And that completes those.
Commander Hicks. I neglected to do something that I would
like to have all of us see. Would the people that are attending
the national convention for the first time please stand?
[Applause.] Look at this! Wonderful! We welcome each and every
one of you.
And I hope that you were able to get on a committee,
because that is a learning experience. And just because you're
here the first time does not mean that you are not qualified to
serve on a committee, because that's where we all learn. That
is very important. And please don't be afraid to ask questions,
ladies, because that's how we learn.
Adjutant Tedrow. Now for some brief announcements.
First of all, Forget-Me-Not. The forget-Me-Not tickets have
been sold in the back of the room all morning. The cutoff date
on those tickets will be 10:00 o'clock tomorrow morning. After
that, you are not going to get any. So you're going to have to
decide if you want any. Ten o'clock tomorrow morning, we will
not sell any more Forget-Me-Not tickets.
All right. ``Please announce that we would like all the
Illinois ladies to meet in the back of the room immediately
following this meeting.'' Did all the Illinois ladies hear
that? Immediately following this meeting, to please meet in the
back of the room.
I believe that that's all the announcements for now.
I know one other thing. I usually try to do this at the
beginning of the session, and I want to do it now. I want to at
this time recognize Helen Parcelle who did such a fabulous job
last year at our Las Vegas convention. Helen, there you are
back there. [Applause.]
Okay. If anybody finds anything at all, turn it in to our
Headquarters Office down on the second floor.
And at this time, Fay, if you want to come up and read this
brief reading.
Mrs. Fay E. Brodhead. Hi, you-all. Most of you all know me.
I'm Fay Brodhead. My husband is Russell Brodhead, and I'm with
Unit 108 in sunny Cape Coral, Florida, but I was born in New
Orleans, and I have been planning this for two years, since the
last one in either Melbourne or Altamonte Springs, Florida. We
are going to have a ball tonight, so you-all better come.
I have something here that my oldest daughter sent me about
ten years ago to Florida, and it says:
Your know you're at home in New Orleans when you drink Dixie,
not sing it. You begin to believe that purple, green and gold
look good together and will even eat things those colors. You
know exactly what you're going to eat next Monday and the next
Monday after that and after that, because, as you know, New
Orleans' red beans and rice, we Orleans residents eat every
Monday.
Your're not afraid when someone wants to axe you--that's a-x-
e--instead of ask you, a-s-k, or a-s-k-e-d.
You get on a bus marked ``Cemeteries,'' without even a second
thought.
The cemeteries are the end of Canal Street where there's a
bus. We only have one existing streetcar in the United States,
and that's in New Orleans, and you can go all the way to the
Audubon Zoo, I hope they play that song tonight, ``They All Ask
For You.'' That is a song called, ``The Audubon Zoo.''
You know exactly that living anywhere else in the world would
definitely be very sad.
I thank you. [Applause.]
Commander Hicks. Thank you.
Ladies, we are going to recess at this time and then we
will have our committee meetings this afternoon and reconvene
tomorrow.
Commander Hicks. Ladies, don't forget to remove the flags,
please.
[Whereupon, the meeting recessed at 12:00 o'clock noon,
July 29, 1996.]
SECOND BUSINESS SESSION
July 29, 1996
The Second Business Session of the Disabled American
Veterans Auxiliary 74th National Convention convened in the
Napoleon Room of the New Orleans Hilton Riverside, New Orleans,
Louisiana, Tuesday morning, July 30, 1996, and was called to
order at 9:15 o'clock a.m. by Commander Barbara L. Hicks.
Commander Barbara L. Hicks. The Second Session of the
Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary National Convention will
now come to order, please.
Carol Gray, our chaplain, will lead us in our opening
prayer.
Chaplain Gray. Would you all please join hands? O God, Our
Help in ages past and for the years to come, we thank You for
the sunshine of this new day You have given to us. Today let us
rejoice with those units who will receive recognition for the
work they have done for our veterans, their families and for
our communities.
Although storm clouds gather far across the sea,
Let us swear allegiance to our land so free.
May we be always grateful for this land so fair,
And please join our voices in this solemn prayer.
[Singing of ``God Bless America''.]
Chaplain Gray. Amen.
Commander Hicks. Our Pledge of Allegiance will be led by
the National Americanism Chairman Paula Raymond.
[Pledge of Allegiance.]
Commander Hicks. How about that Mardi Gras party last
night? [Applause.] I'd like to thank the Department of
Louisiana. It was absolutely fabulous. And I enjoyed it so very
much, because I knew who you were, but I hope all of you didn't
know who I was for a long time.
Our National Junior Activities Chairman Linda Trulio has a
board outside the meeting room, and so many have sent in
pictures from your junior activities this year, and I really
would like you to take time to go out and look at it. And
Linda, thank you for that. It's very, very nice. Our juniors,
as I've stated so much, do so many things.
Dorothy, are you here with a Credentials report, please?
Member. Madam Commander, this is the Credentials report for
July 30th, 1996. The following units have not yet been cleared
for voting. A unit representative must report to the Auxiliary
Headquarters Office in the Eglinton and Winton Room, second
floor. District of Columbia Number 1; Louisiana 15; Mississippi
54; Nevada 12; Vermont 17; West Virginia 8; Puerto Rico 6;
Hawaii 1.
Total units registered, 336; total departments registered,
37; total of 373. Delegates registered, 647; alternates
registered, 40; guests, 90; a total of 780. Total unit votes,
2,118; total department votes, 37; total national officers, 8;
past national commanders, 12; grand total of votes, 2,175.
Madam Commander, I make a motion for this to be accepted as
read.
Commander Hicks. Is there a second to this motion, please?
[Motion seconded from the floor.]
Commander Hicks. All in favor, signify by saying Aye;
opposed. So ordered.
Would the chairman of the Constitution and Bylaws Committee
please come forward for the first reading? Ladies, since this
is the first reading, there will be no discussion at this time.
Pages, would you please check to see whose hands go up?
Everyone does not have copies of these, plus the head table
does not.
Mrs. Renee Jones. National Commander, national officers,
past national commanders, delegates, alternates and guests of
the Annual Convention of the Disabled American Veterans
Auxiliary: The Constitution and Bylaws Committee met on Monday,
July 29th, 1996 at 2:00 p.m. in the Newbury Room at the Hilton
Riverside in New Orleans, Louisiana.
The meeting was called to order by Advisor and National
Judge Advocate Shelia Allred. The first order of business was
the nomination and election of Renee Jones as chairman,
followed by nomination and election of Addie White as
secretary.
The committee voted to present the following amendments.
Page S-1, Article I, State Organization, Section 1,
Administration. Delete paragraph and substitute the following:
This state department is organized with the specific consent
and recognition of the parent organization and shall be
governed by these Standard State Bylaws, State Standing Rules,
Supplement to State Bylaws and the National Constitution and
Bylaws of the Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary.
Rationale: In addition to the Standard State Bylaws, each
state department is governed by their State Standing Rules.
Page S-11, Article VI, State Committees, Section 4, State
Standing Committees. Add new Section 4. New Section 4 will
read:
In addition to having an elected state Finance Committee and
a state Nominating Committee, a state department may have other
elected state standing committees. Such committees shall be
provided for in their State Standing Rules. These rules shall
include the number of members serving on a committee, term/
terms of office and duties of the committee. Any committee
vacancies shall be filled with an appointment made by the state
commander and approved by the state Executive Committee.
Rationale: A standing committee that requires continuity
shall be elected committee, since the term of an appointed
committee cannot exceed that of the appointing power. When new
Section 4 is adopted, old Section 4 will become Section 5, and
old Section 5 will become Section 6.
Page S-14, Article 8, Finances, Section 5, State Fund-
Raising Project/Projects, Paragraph 2. Delete Paragraph 2 and
substitute the following:
All fund-raising projects or activities for the state
department must be approved by the Disabled American Veterans
state department and the DAV National Executive Committee.
Rationale: Paragraph 2 is amended in order to agree with
the DAV National Bylaws.
Page U-3, Article II, Unit Officers, Section 2, Elected
Officers. Add new Paragraph 5. New Paragraph 5 will read:
In the event of the removal of a state Executive
Committeewoman from office or her death, resignation or
inability to discharge the duties of her office, same shall
devolve upon the alternate state Executive Committeewoman. An
election shall then be held for the position of alternate state
Executive Committeewoman. Elected alternate shall be installed
by a proper installing officer.
Rationale: No provision has been made in the Standard Local
Unit Bylaws for filling state Executive Committeewoman and
alternate state Executive Committeewoman vacancies. New
Paragraph 5 would provide this procedure.
Page U-12, Article VII, Unit Finance and Dues, Section 3,
Fund-Raising Project/Projects. Delete third paragraph of
Section 3 and substitute the following:
Where no commissions are to be paid, no prior approval shall
be required from the DAV department Executive Committee when
the gross receipts will be less than $5,000; provided, however,
that advance notice of 30 days to the DAV state department
shall be required on all such finance-raising activity.
Rationale: Paragraph 3 is amended in order to agree with
the DAV National Bylaws.
Thank you.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Renee.
Ladies, we are going to go into our awards, reports and
awards. As your chairman is called and she calls the names of
the winners, would you all please come up and then if you want
pictures, you can stand over at the side and have them taken,
so this will expedite the procedure, please.
Paula Raymond, Americanism. This is such a special time,
because each and every unit works so hard during the year, so
let's be enthusiastic and show whoever wins that we really do
care. Little things we do show we care.
3rd Junior Vice-Commander Paula Raymond. The chairman of
the Americanism Committee was Gwen McCracken, and I'd like to
ask her to come up here, please. This committee worked very,
very hard. I'm very proud of them. They got right down to it.
The Americanism reports this year were, all of them, very good.
They had a tough time in there. They stewed and fretted, but
they did an excellent job.
Mrs. Gwen McCracken. Good morning, ladies. Laissez les bon
temps roullez. I learned it. Didn't we have a wonderful time
last night? I would personally like to thank Louisiana ladies
for your wonderful hospitality. [Applause.]
I would like the members of our committee to please rise,
the Americanism Committee. As Paula has stated to you, these
ladies worked very hard, and we deliberated and deliberated,
and it was very wonderful to see so much work going into these
reports.
I will read the names of our committee: Donna Turner, who
was elected our secretary; Irene Boron; Wanda Furbish; Idella
Hosier. Ladies, you can sit down if you'd like to. But you do
deserve a round of applause when we're finished. Evelyn Edmond;
Marianne Peikielniak; Dolly Hartman; Elizabeth Ketchum; Barbara
Buckley; myself, Gwen McCracken; Judith Uetterling; Nancy
Colby; Donna Hatfield; Sharon Kramer; Marilyn Hess; Elsa McCoy;
Betty Conrad; Lellie Williams; Deborah Mazza; Joyce Humes; and
Patricia McCool.
And ladies, I personally thank you as chairman. You did a
wonderful job. You deserve a round of applause. [Applause.]
Our committee met at 2 o'clock, July the 29th, 1996. Our
advisor was Paula Raymond. Our secretary elected was Donna
Tanner. And our results are as follows. And ladies, I want to
let you know. We had a very, very difficult time. Your reports
were excellent. And to see the committee do the amount of work
that they had to do to come up with the winners--you are all
winners, and I thank you for the work that we do.
Group I would be 10 to 50 members. Mountain Top Unit 29,
Oakland, Maryland. [Applause.] Congratulations.
Charles Gustafson Unit 94, Florida. [Applause.]
Bedford County Unit 48, Washington, North Carolina.
[Applause.]
Sonoma County--wait a minute here. We have a mistake,
girls. Just a moment. I'm sorry. I should have announced the
categories.
The Charles Gustafson Unit 94, Florida was from 51 to a
hundred; 101 to 200 was Bedford County 48, Washington, North
Carolina. Group IV would be--I'm sorry. Beaufort? Sonoma County
Unit 48, Santa Rosa, California for 201 and over. [Applause.]
We have our Special Americanism Award, and this was the
most difficult award for our committee to judge. I'm sure all
the ladies on the committee would agree with that. But we came
up with a winner. As I said, we're all winners. But we chose
this very special award to go to Boise, Idaho, Unit Number 2.
So congratulations, Boise. [Applause.]
Congratulations to all, and I would like to thank the
committee and our advisor. I think we all learned an awful lot
in that meeting.
Now, we do have some recommendations. Our committee
recommends that no money is mentioned on the report. We feel
that the amounts are not required to be on that Americanism
report. So they suggest there be no monies mentioned on that
report.
Another suggestion is there should be a Special Americanism
Program only. That's what it should state for the Americanism
Programs, just dealing directly with Americanism, because we do
have a tendency to confuse our committees here with community
service and so on.
Eliminate the wording of ``flagpole donations'' on Question
Number 2. And eliminate Question Number 8 on the
naturalization, due to the fact that many of our units do not
live near any of our borders, and they have a difficult time
trying to do anything towards that program.
And that would be it. I thank you so very, very much,
ladies. Let the good times roll. Thank you. [Applause.]
Oh, I'm, sorry. Another mistake. We have some honorable
mentions for our Special Americanism Program, and that would be
Quad City Unit 53, Granite City, Illinois; John Holden Unit 8,
Murphy, Utah; and Nob Hill Unit 26, Colorado Springs, Colorado.
So if you ladies, if you have anyone here in attendance, please
come up. We have special awards for you. Thank you. [Applause.]
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Paula.
We are going to deviate here. Ann, are you ready with
History? Ann Jones for the history books.
Mrs. Ann M. Jones. Thank you, Commander Barbara. I was a
little bit disappointed judging the history books. We only had
four. Our chairman was Zona Schalow. Zona, are you here? Here
she comes. Zona was our very able chairman, and she will tell
you about the judging of the history books.
NEC 12th District Zona M. Schalow. Good morning, everyone.
National Commander Barbara, national officers, past national
commanders, members and guests of the Disabled American
Veterans Auxiliary: Well, it was quite a challenge, I must say.
The districts that we had were--the only district we had
missing was 19. And I would just like to have the ladies stand
up that worked on these four books so diligently for History.
Are they all in the room? These are the ladies that really
worked. [Applause.]
Our secretary that was elected was from District 20, Unit
42, Texas. She was Mary Choate. And our advisor was Ann Jones.
We met in the Jasper Room at 2 p.m. on July 29th, and we closed
at 4 o'clock, so we really worked our little tails off.
There were four books for judging, and the winner was rated
97, and that was Michigan. [Applause.] Thank you. Their book
was beautiful. I want to just tell you that all the books were
beautiful, but Michigan was very outstanding.
And some of the problems that we had were one state used a
marking pencil, and the marking pencil bled through the sheets
of the pages. And some of the words were misspelled. Some of
the articles were not in order. And some of the books were just
not at all complete, and not enough information, and some had
smudges. You have to be careful when you use the glue. It oozes
out on the edges of the pictures, and a lot of pictures were
missing.
So I just want to thank the committee and thank Ann Jones
for helping me out, and it was a great pleasure to do this.
Thank you. [Applause.]
Mrs. Minda Dewilder. Good morning, ladies. They told me to
say something. All I have to say is thank you very much. I
worked hard on it. [Applause.]
Mrs. McCracken. Ladies, I must tell you, Minda Dewilder is
an excellent, excellent hand-writer and organizer, and I know
what I was doing when I asked her to be my History chairman.
I'm so very proud of her. Thank you, Minda.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, ladies.
Grace Nagel, Hospital chairman, please.
Don't you think our musician is doing an absolutely
outstanding job? [Applause.]
Mrs. Grace Nagel. Good morning. It was my pleasure to be
the advisor to this committee. We had a great time, and we had
a hard time. We worked very diligently and for a long while,
and everybody went over everybody else's papers to meet an
agreement.
I would like Gayle Flewwellin, please, to come up, who was
our chairman. And I want to tell you gals from Florida, I also
belong to your group. They didn't know that.
Mrs. Gayle Flewwellin. Ladies, National Commander, past
national commanders, and all state commanders, NECs,
alternates, units: It's a pleasure to be here before you and to
have worked with the ladies on the VA Hospital--can you hear
me? Non-VA hospital. Could someone bring my folder up to me? I
was not aware I had to do this; believe me, I wasn't.
Commander Hicks. While we are waiting, ladies, the memorial
service on Sunday, we always have the same gentleman that's in
charge of the directing of it, Vinny Reed, and he happened to
mention, make a good mistake of mentioning that he had a new
granddaughter. Well, naturally, I had one of these, and he just
sent me a little note up, and he said, ``Barbara, thank you.
The proud grandpa.'' So here's a membership for Massachusetts.
[Applause.]
Mrs. Flewwellin. Thank you for being so patient. The
categories from 10 to 50 members, Flat River 106, Greenville,
Mississippi. [Applause.] Come on up.
Categories from 51 to 100 members, Robert Loveday Memorial,
Chattanooga, Tennessee. [Applause.]
Categories 101 to 200 members, Radcliff 136, Radcliff,
Kentucky. [Applause.]
Category 201 members and over, Nob Hill Number 26, Colorado
Springs, Colorado. [Applause.]
And while they are coming up to receive their awards, will
all the members that participated in the selection of these
awards please stand up. We thank you very much. [Applause.]
Member. It's an honor for me to receive this award as the
state commander of Colorado, but I'm not surprised, because we
have some very good ladies and some very hard-working women
there. Thank you.
Mrs. Flewwellin. There's a correction on that first one. It
was my error and no one else's error. Flat River 106,
Greenville, Michigan. [Applause.]
And then there were some recommendations made to eliminate
Number 5 on the report, that's miles traveled. The committee
felt that 6 and 7 conflict with each other. They see no
difference in it. And is there a difference? And could 6 and 7
be combined using the note attached to 7? That's the
recommendations from the committee.
Commander Hicks. Ladies, is there someone here from
Kentucky to pick the award up?
Mrs. Flewwellin. Is there anyone from Kentucky here?
Commander Hicks. Thank you, ladies.
Sergeant-at-arms, do we have a guest waiting? Would you
please escort Reverend Wilkie to the platform? [Applause.]
Reverend Wilkie, it's indeed an honor and pleasure to have
you address the ladies at this convention.
Reverend Oscar Wilkie. Thank you very much, Commander
Hicks. Oh, what a joy it is to come and to share with you on
such an occasion as this. It's been one of the highlights of my
experience in the DAV to come and to bring greeting to you each
convention, and then to meet so many of you at he department
conventions where I've been privileged to go.
The highlights of these last eight, nine years are so very,
very many. But surely among them are working with such people
as your commander, Barbara, and with--I understand the
Nominating Committee has nominated somebody for commander next
year yet? They're going to, they're working on it. I hear all
kinds of rumors. You know, down in our part of the world, rumor
mill, you wouldn't believe, or maybe you would.
But nevertheless, working with this lovely lady, Margaret
Hass, has been such a privilege. We started together as
chaplains--we're not going to tell how many years ago. But it's
been a pleasure working with her and her family, and with each
of you.
Your adjutant, what can I say? She is one of the finest
ladies, one of the most dedicated individuals and committed to
veterans I've ever had the privilege to be around. [Applause.]
And this is kind of my swan song, in a way. I'm not going
to be seeking election this year for chaplain. If you've heard
that rumor, it is true. And I'm going to try to retire this
year. I've been preaching some 48 years. And really, it's
because of illness and fatigue. The people are sick and tired
of me. [Laughter.] So I thought maybe I'd just kind of take a
little time to get refreshed and relaxed a little.
But I do have a very special thing I want to do today, but
before I do it, I don't know if you've heard about this friend
of mine--you know, have you been to the hospitals lately and
recognized the medical expenses? Go to see a doctor or a
veterinarian or that stuff? You just can't hardly afford to go.
A friend of mine had a dog that had died, had been his
constant companion, constant companion for 20 years. The dog
died, but the man decided, well, I've got to get something done
for my dog. Took him to the vet, said, ``Doc, you've got to do
something for my dog. You've just got to help him.'' So the doc
looked at the dog, and said, ``Sir, the dog's dead.''
The man said, ``No, no, no, no. You don't understand. He's
been with me for 20 years. We've been everywhere together. Do
something. Give him a shot. Do something.'' Okay. So he took
him in the examining room, laid him on the table. The dog's
dead. He reached over, got a needle, gave him a shot. The dog
didn't move. The dog's dead.
``What can I do to try to revive this dog?'' Well, he'd
been working on a cat that he had there, reached over in the
cage and got the cat out, figuring that the dog would come
alive surely if he smelled a cat. Took the cat and held him
over the dog, and dog didn't move. Put the cat up, took the dog
out, and said, ``Sir, I'm sorry, but you dog is dead. There's
nothing I can do.''
The fellow said, ``Well, I guess if he's dead, he's dead,
but I just couldn't bury him. he's been so precious. Could you
take care of him for me?'' ``Well, sure, but it'll cost you 350
bucks.'' ``Three hundred and fifty bucks? What are you talking?
How come so much?''
He said, ``Well, 50 bucks for the office call and 300 for
the cat scan.'' [Laughter and applause.]
What a joy it is to share with all of you who, as I say,
have meant so much for so long. It's a tremendous honor and
privilege for me to represent an organization in Valley Forge,
Pennsylvania that calls itself the Chapel of Four Chaplains. It
was organized in memory of four chaplains who gave their lives
back in February of 1943.
A troop ship was sailing just off the coast of Greenland
when a U-boat spotted it in the cross hairs of its periscope
early that morning, fired five torpedoes which found their mark
deep below the waterline of the USAT Dorchester. Of the 902 men
that were aboard that vessel, only 230 of them survived. During
the confusion and the fear that was reigning supreme during the
time the ship went down, which took only 27 minutes, there were
four chaplains, one Jewish, one of the Dutch Reformed Church,
one a Catholic priest and one a Methodist minister, who took
their own life jackets off and gave them to young men who had
none, thereby linking arms as the ship went down, giving the
supreme sacrifice so that others may live.
The Chapel of Four Chaplains was organized and dedicated in
Valley Forge in memory to that kind of selfless service, and it
is an honor and a privilege for me to come today, representing
that organization, to pay tribute to your commander, Barbara
Hicks, who has given of herself in the same sense of selfless
service to so many across the years of her service in the DAV
Auxiliary and at other times.
There is a medallion that goes with this, and Barbara, if I
may, I'd like to present it to you [Applause.] And I have a
plaque with a picture of those four chaplains on it that reads
like this:
The Legion of Honor Bronze Medallion presented to Barbara L.
Hicks, National Commander, DAV Auxiliary, 1995-96, by the
Chapel of Four Chaplains, Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, in
recognition of outstanding service to all people, regardless of
race or faith. This award symbolizes for all Americans and for
all time the unity of this nation founded upon the Fatherhood
of One God.
Congratulations, Barbara. [Applause.]
Thank you very much. God bless you, God bless the
Auxiliary, and God bless the U.S. of A. [Applause.]
Commander Hicks. Thank you so very, very much, Reverend
Wilkie. I don't know what I've done to deserve that, but isn't
that an honor? Wow! You will have to forgive me. I'm just a tad
shook.
Would our Junior Activities chairman, Linda Trulio, please
come forward for her presentations of awards?
Mrs. Linda A. Trulio. Madam Commander, national officers,
past national commanders and members of the Auxiliary: It was
indeed an honor and a pleasure to serve this year as Junior
Activities chairman. I would hope that you are pleased and
proud, just as I am, to see the little girls here, and that you
would remember to include them in your departments and in all
your Auxiliary work. They are our future. We must invest in
their future, and investing in theirs, they will become ours.
Barbara, I would personally like to just thank you for
giving this flower a chance to bloom.
And I would like to call up now our commander from
Arkansas. Mary, would you like to come up now?
Commander Hicks. Did you all get your package of forget-me-
nots that the juniors were passing out as you entered?
Mrs. Mary E. Roden. Good morning, ladies. And as Linda
says, it is an honor to see our juniors here and see them so
active, and they are our future. The Junior Activities
Committee met in the Rosedown Room at 2 p.m., July 29. Our
advisor was Linda Trulio. Mary Roden was your chairman.
Secretary was Minda Dewilder. Minda does write very well. I
highly recommend her.
The members of our committee worked very diligently in
judging the reports, and I would like to thank the committee.
And when I call your name, would you please stand? Ladies I
don't intend to call your last name, because I can't pronounce
some of them. Janet Clark; Olive; Doris; Rose; Neva Langston.
Please stand, ladies. Ladies, would you all please stand. We'll
eliminate that. [Laughter and applause.]
Linda, I would like to thank you for a job well done. And
thank our juniors for the work they have done and they continue
to do, and they are our future. And I would like to thank you
all for asking me to be the chairman. Thank you. And I love you
all. [Applause.]
And our winners in Group I, from 1 to 25, Black Mountain,
Nevada, Unit 12. [Applause.]
Group II, 26 to 50 members, Westover Unit Number 11,
Massachusetts. [Applause.]
Group III, 51 to a hundred, Milwaukee Unit Number 1,
Wisconsin. [Applause.]
Junior Activities Book. Please look at it, ladies; it's
very interesting. Unit 10, Kingman, Arizona. [Applause.]
National Miss Teenage, 13 to 17, Tabitha Lyons, Westover
Unit 11, West Springfield, Massachusetts. [Applause.]
National Junior Miss, ages 7 to 12, Rachel Ellen Witt,
Mountaintop Unit 29, Maryland. [Applause.]
National Mini Miss under the age of seven, Tara
Vandeneynde, Buddy Unit Number 43, Ohio. [Applause.]
Thank you all.
Commander Hicks. Since I'm from Ohio, I have already been
invited to the picnic that they will be having the 10th of
August, and it will indeed be an honor to take this and
personally present it.
Our National Junior Miss last year was from Jackson, Ohio,
and she led the Pledge of Allegiance at my testimonial dinner.
So this is just fantastic.
And not only do I congratulate her; it's all of the
winners, ladies. I didn't mean to be partial. Wouldn't do that
for anything in the world. No, Maria, not for anything in the
world. They're all special, each and every one of them.
Phyllis, we've been kind of going over your name because I
know you've been out here Would you like to do Community
Service Awards at this time, please?
We're going to continue to skip this one right now, because
now the chairman is out of the room.
So Evelyn Dorsey, are you ready for Legislation, please?
2nd Junior Vice-Commander Dorsey. Thank you, Commander,
Barbara. Good morning, ladies. It's been a pleasure to serve as
the Legislative chairman for this year. It has been a very
interesting year in our lives as spouses and children of
disabled veterans, and you ladies are to be commended for
rising to the occasion. Your reports reflected you commitment
and interest in what's going on as it relates to legislation
pertaining to our veterans.
At this time, I'd like to call the chairperson of the
committee Judy Leiby, to come forward and give the report.
Mrs. Judy Lieby. It was an honor, Commander Barbara,
national officers, past national commanders and members, to
serve as the chair of this committee. I have to admit, I went
in a little bit nervous, because I said, ``What am I supposed
to do?'' And they said, ``Just do what you do at the state
level.'' So that's what I tried to do.
I'd like to thank all the ladies that served on the
committee. They did a fantastic job. It was a difficult job,
and certainly all of you are to be commended for the work you
did on the reports and on the legislative issues.
I'd like to call the names very quickly of the ladies who
served, and if they would stand: Ellen Drogo; Maxine Clark;
Florence Kehne; Mildred Furlong; Wanda Voyles; Mary Jane
Dickmyer; Carolyn Johnson; Estella Watts; Deborah Emery;
Carolyn Reed; Betty Bumpus; Maxine Archer; Frances Benkovics;
Betty Bergquist; Ruth De Sando; Shirley Wright; Juanita Wiley,
who became know in the meeting as ``wiley'' Juanita; Patsy
Mitchell and Sharon Eddy. They did a great job. Let's give them
a hand. [Applause.]
The National Legislative Convention Committee met in the
Belle Chasse Room at 2:15 on the 29th of July, 1996. Our
advisor was Evelyn Dorsey. Mary Jane Dickmyer was selected as
secretary. And what we did in our selection of secretary was
run a lottery. The person that sat down in the right seat was
elected, and that was Mary Jane. [Laughter.]
Everybody worked very, very hard.
Group I, 10 to 50 members. The winner was Maryland Number
29. [Applause.]
Groupd II, 51 to a hundred members, Killeen, Texas Number
147. [Applause.]
Group III, 101 to 200 members, Macon, Georgia Number 50.
[Applause.]
And Group IV, 201 members and over--and I didn't tell
anybody, did I?--Arizona Number 1, Phoenix Number 1.
[Applause.]
The committee did come up with two brief recommendations.
They would like to see copies of the winning reports sent to
each state for distribution to the units. They think this will
help the smaller units and new people in the units to see what
a report really should look like.
And we do feel that more specific guidelines be given on
how to weigh the points in each category. It was very
difficult. We were getting 12 and three-quarters and 12 and a
half because some of them were very, very close, ladies. It was
very difficult to make that decision.
But I want to command everybody because what has happened
legislatively this year shows that you've worked very hard.
Thank you very much. [Applause.]
Commander Hicks. Thank you very much. I just have been
listening to some of the names, and I wonder how many people
that served on committees this year were a member of a
committee for the first time? Look at the hands! Isn't that
great? Thank you for coming to convention and giving your time
and being a part of the convention. [Applause.]
Now, Phyllis, you said your chairman is here? We can do
Community Service? Thank you.
4th Junior Vice-Commander Phyllis Novak. Thank you. Good
morning, everyone. May I ask Kathleen Tedesco and Ms. Espinosa
to please come forward?
And while they're coming up, I just want to say that at the
Fall Conference, we had the Community Service Program, and you
all received a little heart, and we wore it on our sleeves. And
that really was kind of making a statement. We do so much that
we just don't give ourselves credit for. We're so used to
giving that we take it as second nature. And we need to let
others know what we do, so that they'll realize that we as
members of the Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary are
providing service, and when we need their support, they will
give to us.
Throughout the year, I encouraged you to take those lights
out from underneath the bushel baskets you'd hidden them under.
And ladies, you did that. There was a significant increase in
the number of hours of community service that you gave on your
reports when you handed them in in April of May.
And today you received a new heart, and if you noticed, it
has another dimension because, ladies, your hearts are full.
They are to the bursting point. You have given, given, given,
all of you. And I applaud all of you for all the hours that you
give to make us important in the eyes of others. [Applause.]
I'd like to present Kathleen Tedesco, who was our committee
chairperson, and she'll read the winners.
Mrs. Kathleen Tedesco. I'd like to thank you for the
opportunity. It was a real pleasure working with the women on
Community Service. First, before I announce the winners, I'd
like Karen to introduce our committee and have you all stand,
please.
Mrs. Karen Espinosa. Good morning. Okay. If these ladies
will please stand and hold your applause until they are all
introduced: District 1, Fran Costa; District 2, Kathleen
Tedesco; District 3, Jacqueline Smith; District 4, Rose Henn;
District 5, Mary Tunstall; District 6, Justine Dingus; District
7, Sue Reed; District 8, Everlene Cody; District 9, Ruth Koon;
District 10, Ethel White; District 11, Marj Davies; District
12, June Marheine; District 13, Norma Zeimet; District 14,
Miriam Kiser; District 15, Mae Johnson; District 16, Florence
Swisher; District 17, Janet Derby; District 18, Karen Espinosa;
District 20, Nancy Laurence; and District 21, Sara Douglass
It was a pleasure working with you ladies. [Applause.]
Mrs. Tedesco. Thank you, ladies. You all did a fantastic
job. You worked together as a team, and it just showed how
wonderful the Auxiliary can be.
Now I'll announce the winners. Group I, 10 to 50 members,
Mountain Top Number 29, Maryland. [Applause.]
Fifty-one to a hundred members, Roll of Honor Number 120,
New York. [Applause.]
Group III, 101 to 200, Cape Code Number 96, Massachusetts.
[Applause.]
And Group IV, 201 members and over, Altman Ruoff Osier
Number 6, Washington. [Applause.]
Congratulations to you all.
Now, we do have two recommendations. One, that the reports
submitted to National should be free of extra markings and
numbers that the state does on scoring, because it gets very
confusing when you're adding up your scoring and you see a
different number. And also, a reminder again to fill out the
top part of the form completely to have the chairman or the
commander sign the form.
Thank you very much for the privilege. [Applause.]
4th Junior Vice-Commander Novak. Kathy doesn't want to take
all the honors here, but she is the commander of one of the
units that won. So congratulations. [Applause.]
Thank you, ladies.
Commander Hicks. Thank you.
You ladies may have noticed that we have a group of ladies
up here that have red and white checked aprons or dresses, or
whatever, on. This is a very, very hard-working group of ladies
from Arkansas that hosted the Southern Caucus breakfast this
morning. Ladies, would you stand and share your outfits so the
ladies will know why you have these on? [Applause.]
And I think you might be interested to know they had a
very, very interesting program on mothers of Presidents. You
know, there is always a good woman behind a successful man. And
instead of the wives, they went back and give history of the
mothers and how they encouraged and lifted and pushed and
educated their sons to become active and read and all of the
things that they've done, and they all became Presidents. And I
think it was so very interesting, and everyone at the breakfast
this morning went home with a piece of history that we will
always be able to share.
Thank you, ladies. It was so enjoyable. [Applause.]
And now we are ready to do VAVS. Lillian Nason and Oliver
Tomlin, deputy representatives, please.
Mrs. Lillian Nason. Good morning, everyone. National
Commander Barb, national officers, past national commanders,
delegates and guests to this convention: This year has been a
very rewarding and a highlighted experience of my life. Please
do not forget that these chairmanships, appointments and
whatever, you learn a lot. I have learned. And many of you will
be seeing a lot of changes within the VAMCs, and probably
already have, and this new vision. And if any way possible,
please try to attend the seminar this afternoon. I understand
there's going to be quite a bit of changes.
I'd like to introduce to you--most of you know her--our
national deputy rep, Oliver Tomlin. She has stood behind me
this year and helped me a great deal, and I appreciate her very
much. [Applause.]
At this time, I would like to call Cathy Watkins to come up
to the podium, please. And there again, I would like to also
say that this committee really worked hard, and we had a number
of new members serving on this committee. It was a new learning
experience, and they did a fantastic job, and I want to also
thank them.
Mrs. Olive Tomlin. Good morning, ladies. National
Commander, National Adjutant, national officers, past national
commanders, delegates and guests of the 74th National Auxiliary
Convention: The National VAVS Convention Committee met in the
Elmwood Room at 2:00 p.m. on July 29th. Our advisor was Lillian
Nason. Myra Ferguson was appointed secretary.
And I would like to take this time now to recognize the
committee, which did a great job. As I call your name, if you
would stand. Miriam Daley; Jane Willet; Harriet Anderson; Viola
Penn; Ann Graybell; Myra Ferguson; Cornelia Cobb; Aliene
Warchak; Bernice Sebring; Sherry Price; Barbara Curtis; Irene
Sablic; Marilyn Vigen; Deloris Daniels; Trudy Furlanich; Becky
Lovato; Sunny Narcaroti; Isabel Kirsct; Delphia Huber
Thank you, ladies. You did a great job. [Applause.]
The following units were judged to be the best in their
category for the National VAVS Awards. Group 1, 10 to 50
members, Mountain Top Unit 29, Maryland. [Applause.]
Group 11, 51 to 100 members, Morgantown Unit 43, North
Carolina. [Applause.]
Group III, 101 to 200 members, Allegheny-Kiski Unit 53,
Pennsylvania. [Applause.]
Group IV, 201 members and over, Phoenix Unit 1, Arizona.
[Applause.]
And the Thelma Feighner Award goes to Savannah Unit 8,
Georgia. [Applause.]
The Committee had one recommendation regarding the point
grading sheet, to delete the word ``etcetera,'' and replace the
word ``hours for 30 points.''
Commander Barbara, I would like to wish you much success in
your future endeavors.
Thank you, ladies. [Applause.]
And I want to thank Maria for doing this to me.
Member. Madam Chairman gave me permission to speak, Maria,
but I just all of you to know that our past national commanders
do continue to work in the DAV Auxiliary. Thank you.
[Applause.]
Mrs. Nason. This is Aliene Warchak from Georgia, and the
Savannah unit won the special VAVS Award, the Thelma Feighner
Award, and they did a fantastic job, donating to the VA
hospitals. They were too far to travel to the VAMC, but the
certainly did a wonderful job in supporting the hospitals as
close to them as possible. Thank you. And you girls did a great
job. [Applause.]
Mrs. Aliene Warchak. Well, I know that Savannah does a good
job and they work very hard. They are 234 miles from the
nearest VA Center, so they cannot travel to and from the
Charleston, South Carolina center. Thank you.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, ladies.
Margaret, are you ready with the Mae Holmes Awards, please?
Senior Vice-Commander Hass. Thank you, Commander Barbara.
Is Libby here, our chairman? Here she comes. Okay.
The Mae Holmes Award is a prestigious award for the very
best outstanding unit in the four membership categories. Our
committee worked well together. It's always a hard job, because
there are so many good reports. But they did their work. And we
have Chairman Elizabeth Fancher, but by the time the committee
was over, we were calling her ``Libby.'' This is what is so
wonderful to serve on these committees at national convention,
because you renew old acquaintances and you make new friends.
And so I'd like to welcome Libby to the mike to give our
awards.
Mrs. Elizabeth Fancher. Thank you, Margaret.
Oh, I'm so happy to be up here, I want to tell you. This is
the first time I've been to a national convention. In fact,
this is the furthest I've ever been away from home, and I love
it. [Laughter and applause.] I like going to the boat, too.
[Laughter.]
This Mae Holmes report is a very important category, and a
lot of ladies have worked hard on this, and it was hard for
them to judge all of these. I want to say what a pleasure that
it was to have Margaret as our advisor. I've known Margaret for
a long time from coming to our state convention. She didn't
remember me too well, but now she's not going to forget me.
[Laughter.]
We met in the Oak Alley Room at 2:00 o'clock, July the
29th, `96. Margaret Hass, our national senior vice-commander,
was our advisor. We elected Dorothea Campanelli as our
secretary. And I'd like to call the names of the ones that
served on this committee, and hold your applause till we're
finished.
District 1, Florence Curley; District 2, Betty Nelson;
District 3, Ann Kelley; District 4, Dorothea Campenelli;
District 5, Sadie Turner; District 6, Gladys Seda; District 7,
Grace McLaughlin; District 8, Eunice Eledge; District 9, Amy
Adcock; District 10, Joann Slotman; District 11, Libby Fancher.
That's me.
District 12, Nellie Smithee; District 13, Jan Walters;
District 14, Annette Bain-Wilson; District 15, Bonita Mitchell;
District 16, Marie Zamacona; District 17, Susan Miller. I don't
know what happened to District 18. Barbara Davison never did
show up. She must have got lost along the way. District 19,
Denise Vietz; District 20, Clara Lewis; and District 21, Peggy
Nye. [Applause.]
I see everybody coming up here with a little envelope. Look
here what I've got, and I want you to know I'm going to read it
all to you. [Laughter.]
National Commander Barbara, National Adjutant Maria,
national officers, past national commanders, delegates and
guests of this 74th National Auxiliary Convention: Our Group
Number I from 10 to 50 members, Flat River 106, Greenville,
Michigan. [Applause.]
Group Number II, 51 to a hundred members, W.R. Hold 147,
Killeen, Texas. [Applause.]
Group Number III, 101 to 200 members, Allegheny-Kiski 53,
Arnold, Pennsylvania. [Applause.]
Group Number IV, 201 members and over, Nob Hill 26,
Colorado Springs, Colorado. [Applause.]
And the committee submitted the following recommendations.
Do not write on reports at state judging. They put their totals
on there, and then that is confusing. Do not attach Community
Service, Hospital and VAVS reports to this Mae Holmes report.
Do make an itemized list if donations are over a thousand
dollars.
That is our recommendations.
Again, I want to thank you all for letting me be on this
committee, and whoever made me chairman of this committee, I
thank you 4, 5, 50 times. [Applause.]
Commander Hicks. You know, this is one of our Ohio girls,
and I actually can't believe that this is our shy little Libby.
[Laughter.]
Yes, ma'am.
Mrs. Barbara Davison. I would like to address the Chair. I
am Barbara Davison, and I was there, and I think the
secretary's got my name on there. I was at the meeting.
Commander Hicks. They'll check it. Thank you very much.
Mrs. Dorothea Campanelli. Excuse me, Madam Commander. The
slip was not signed at the end of the meeting, and I know I
checked all the names off when everyone entered, and they were
all checked off, but at the end when we had the paper signed,
our signature was not on there. But yes, she was there.
Commander Hicks. Okay. We will take care of it, and thank
you very much. I'm sure the ladies apologize for any
inconvenience.
Ladies, I think we are ready for some announcements,
please.
Adjutant Tedrow: Ladies, of course, you know at 10:00
o'clock we cut off the Forget-Met-Not Luncheon.
I also want to inform you, for those that do not know, we
have her for sale the Revised Auxiliary Manual. If you want to
go to the registration area, you can purchase it. So I want you
to be aware of that because, you know, after today, we may not
have them out there for sale.
Okay. I want to talk to you about what we collected, what
we collected yesterday because of your generous donations. On
Freedom's Foundation, a total of $985 was collected. On
Hospitalized Veterans Writing Project, a total of $100 was
collected. On the Service Support Program, $3,255 was
collected. [Applause.] And on the Education Loan, $4,165.11.
[Applause.] So it's through the generosity of your donations
here, and your states and your units. We thank you.
Tomorrow afternoon, of course, we are going to have a
Forget-Me-Not Luncheon. Our convention chairman has done a
terrific job. I'm sure that you're going to be pleased with
what she does tomorrow. And I ask any of you that had not
bought tickets, we--Louise is still back there. Okay?
Thank you.
One more important item: All the chairmen, all the
chairmen, you were given folders with all those reports in. We
want those folders back, so either bring the folders up to the
stage if you have them in the room, or bring them to the office
no later than today. We need those folders that you had in the
meetings.
Thank you.
Commander Hicks. Judge Advocate Shelia Allred.
Judge Advocate Shelia C. Allred. Madam Commander, have we
addressed all the business for this session?
Commander Hicks. Yes, ma'am, we have.
Judge Advocate Allred. May I have your permission to
address the assembly?
Commander Hicks. You may.
Judge Advocate Allred. We are ahead of schedule. Would you
like to continue this progress? I'm saying continue our
business but in accordance with the Convention Rules, and get
out early for the remainder of the day? [Applause.]
The business having been accomplished, I move we recess for
the districts to caucus with the representatives that were on
the Constitution and Bylaws Committee for ten minutes. Further,
we will then reconvene into the next session for the second
reading of the Constitution and Bylaws.
NEC 19th District Esther Westlake. Madam Commander, Esther
Westlake, Unit 45, Washington. I second that motion.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Esther. Is there any discussion
on this, please? Ready for the question? All in favor; opposed.
So carried.
We will have a ten-minute recess. You need to go into your
districts and caucus so that the representative that you
elected to be on your Constitution and Bylaws can fill you in,
and then we will come back and have a second reading. Thank
you, ladies.
[Whereupon, a brief recess was taken.]
Commander Hicks. Our next session will now come back to
order, and I'd like Renee Jones, the Constitution and Bylaws
Committee chairman to come and give the second reading of the
Bylaws, please.
Now, this time we will be voting on them, ladies.
Mrs. Jones. Proposed Constitution and Bylaw amendments
second reading. Page S-1, Article I, State Organization,
Section 1, Administration. Delete paragraph and substitute the
following:
This state department is organized with the specific consent
and recognition of the parent organization and shall be
governed by these Standard State Bylaws, State Standing Rules,
Supplement to State Bylaws and the National Constitution and
Bylaws of the Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary.
Rationale: In addition to the Standard State Bylaws, each
state department is governed by their State Standing Rules.
I move the adoption of this amendment.
Commander Hicks. Is there a second?
NEC 2nd District Dolores U. Robidoux. Madam Chairman,
Dolores Robidoux, District 2. I second the adoption.
Commander Hicks. Discussion? All in favor; opposed.
Carried.
Mrs. Jones. Page S-11, Article VI, State Committees,
Section 4, State Standing Committees. Add new Section 4. New
Section 4 will read:
In addition to having an elected state Finance Committee and
a state Nominating Committee, a state department may have other
elected state standing committees. Such committees shall be
provided for in their State Standing Rules. These rules shall
include the number of members serving on a committee, term/
terms of office and duties of the committee. Any committee
vacancies shall be filled with an appointment made by the state
commander and approved by the state Executive Committee.
Rationale: A standing committee that requires continuity
shall be an elected committee, since the term of an appointed
committee cannot exceed that of the appointing power.
I move the adoption of this amendment.
Mrs. June Becker. June Becker, District 4, New Jersey,
seconds the motion.
Commander Hicks. Is there any discussion? All in favor,
Aye; opposed, Nay. Carried.
Mrs. Jones. Since new Section 4 was adopted, old Section 4
will become Section 5, and old Section 5 will become Section 6.
I move the adoption of the renumbering of these sections.
Commander Hicks. Is there a second?
Mrs. Judy M. Steinhouse. Madam Commander, Judy Steinhouse,
North Dakota, District 14. I second that motion.
Commander Hicks. Discussion? All in favor; opposed.
Carried.
Mrs. Jones. Page S-14, Article 8, Finances, Section 5,
State Fund-Raising Project/Projects, Paragraph 2. Delete
Paragraph 2 and substitute the following:
All fund-raising projects or activities for the state
department must be approved by the Disabled American Veterans
state department and the DAV National Executive Committee.
Rationale: Paragraph 2 is amended in order to agree with
the DAV National Bylaws.
I move the adoption of this amendment.
Commander Hicks. Is there a second?
Mrs. Andee Silver. Andee Silver, District 5, Pennsylvania.
I second that motion.
Commander Hicks. Discussion? All in favor; opposed.
Carried.
Mrs. Jones. Page U-3, Article II, Unit Officers, Section 2,
Elected Officers. Add new paragraph 5. New Paragraph 5 will
read:
In the event of the removal of a state Executive
Committeewoman from office or her death, resignation or
inability to discharge the duties of her office, same shall
devolve upon the alternate state Executive Committeewoman. An
election shall then be held for the position of alternate state
Executive Committeewoman. Elected alternate shall be installed
by a proper installing officer.
Rationale: No provision has been made in the Standard Local
Unit Bylaws for filing state Executive Committeewoman and
alternate state Executive Committeewoman vacancies. New
paragraph 5 would provide this procedure.
I move the adoption of this amendment.
Commander Hicks. Is there a second?
Mrs. Susan M. Henry. Susan Henry, Tennessee, Unit 116. I
second this motion.
Commander Hicks. Is there any discussion? All in favor;
opposed. Carried.
Mrs. Jones. Page U-12, Article VII, Unit Finance and Dues,
Section 3, Fund-Raising Project/Projects. Delete third
paragraph of Section 3 and substitute the following:
Where no commissions are to be paid, no prior approval shall
be required from the DAV department Executive Committee when
the gross receipts will be less than $5,000; provided, however,
that advance notice of 30 days to the DAV state department
shall be required on all such finance-raising activity.
Rationale: Paragraph 3 is amended in order to agree with
the DAV National Bylaws.
I move the adoption of this amendment.
Commander Hicks. Is there a second?
Mrs. Joanne Laws. Joanne Laws, Kentucky 19. I second the
motion.
Commander Hicks. Is there any discussion? All in favor;
opposed. Motion carried.
Mrs. Jones. I would like to recognize those committee
members who served. When I call your name, please stand and
please hold your applause until the end. District 1, Lillian
Van Galen; District 2, Dolores Robidoux; District 3, Ann Young;
District 4, June Becker; District 5, Rhea Lynn; District 6,
Ardalia Taylor; District 7, Lucille McCarthy; District 8, Susan
Henry; District 10, Addie White; District 11, Joyce Hutchinson;
District 12, Bernie Errett; District 13, Joanne Laws; District
14, Judy Steinhouse; District 15, Rose Schilpp; District 16,
Joan Turbeville; District 17, Jean Jackson; District 18,
Shirley Kosisky; District 19, Esther Westlake; District 20,
Betty Hall; and District 21, Loneita Shoemaker; and our advisor
was Sheila Allred.
Thank you. [Applause]
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Renee. And thanks to each of
you who serve on that committee.
Now we're going to have Maria give announcements, please.
Adjutant Tedrow. Just a couple of brief announcements, but
isn't it nice to know that after the raffle's over, you can
leave for the rest of the day? Isn't that great? [Applause.]
I was asked to repeat the amounts of the donations, and I
will repeat them one more time. Freedom's Foundation received
$985. Service Support received $3,255. Ed. Loan received
$4,165.11. Hospitalized Veterans Writing Project received $100.
I am to tell you that Junior Activities Chairman Linda
Trulio would like all of you to remember that today from 4:00
to 6:00 all the juniors will assemble in Room 2212 for a Junior
Mardi Gras, and they'd like you to be there. That's Room 2212
from 4:00 to 6:00. So show them your support. And that's the
Junior Mardi Gras.
And I believe, Madam Commander--is Jacki Fossiano in the
room? Madam Commander, I believe Jacki Fossiano would like to
make a presentation.
NEC 1st District Jacqueline H. Fossiano. Yesterday we had a
luncheon for the Nor'easter, and District 1 was very
supportive, gave me lots of money to work with, and we had
money left over, and District 1 decided that they wanted to
give what was left to the Service Fund. So here you are, Maria.
This is for you.
Then another very nice surprise. When I went to pay the
bill for the luncheon, Beth Tussa, the woman who is in charge,
said, ``You had said you wanted so many seats, and that's all I
charged you for.'' So I have all this money left, and it's
going to the Service Fund. [Applause.]
Commander Hicks. Thank you to all of the Nor'easters. Thank
you so much.
Don't forget the Forget-Me-Not Luncheon tomorrow ladies.
And I believe we can recess now for the drawings.
Adjutant Tedrow. This is a correction, ladies. I got one
that said ``Meet in 2212'' for the Junior Mardi Gras, but
that's on the juniors meet in 2212. So the juniors are to meet
in 2212, and they will be marching through the lobby from 4:00
to 6:00. Is that correct? Okay. So they will be marching
through the lobby from 4:00 to 6:00 celebrating Junior Mardi
Gras. Okay?
Thank you.
Commander Hicks. See you either at the luncheon or on
Thursday morning. Have a good afternoon.
[Whereupon, the meeting recessed at 11:30 o'clock a.m.,
July 30, 1996.]
FINAL BUSINESS SESSION
August 1, 1996
The Final Business Session of the Disabled American
Veterans Auxiliary 74th National Convention convened in the
Napoleon Room of the New Orleans Hilton Riverside, New Orleans,
Louisiana, Thursday morning, August 1, 1996, and was called to
order at 9:00 o'clock a.m. by Commander Barbara L. Hicks.
Commander Barbara L. Hicks. Ladies, I'd like to call the
Final Session of our convention to order, please.
Would Carol Gray please lead us in an opening prayer?
Chaplain Gray. Would you all join hands? O God, Our Father,
You have brought us safely through the night, and we thank You
for giving us one more day to do the work that must be done. We
ask that you watch over all the defenders of freedom in the
world. Until people are free, there cannot be peace so * * *
[Singing of, ``Let There Be Peace on Earth.'']
Chaplain Gray. Amen.
Commander Hicks. And now our National Americanism Chairman
Paula Raymond will lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance, Please.
[Pledge of Allegiance.]
Commander Hicks. Dorothy, may we please have the final
Credentials report?
Member. Good morning. Madam Commander, this is the true
Credentials reports as of July 31st, 1996. The following units
have not yet been cleared for voting. A unit representative
must report to the Auxiliary Headquarters Office in the
Eglinton and Winton Room on the second floor. Mississippi 54;
West Virginia 8; Puerto Rico 6; Hawaii 1.
The units registered, total units registered, 336; total
departments registered, 37; being a total of 373. Delegates
registered, 647; alternates registered, 40; guests, 93; a total
of 780. Total unit votes, 2,118; total department votes, 37;
national officers, 8; past national commanders, 12; grand total
votes, 2,175.
I move for acceptance of this report as read.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Dorothy. Is there a second to
this, please?
Mrs. Marianne Piekielniak. Marianne Piekielniak, Unit 2,
Virginia. I second the motion.
Commander Hicks. Thank you. All in favor; opposed. Motion
carried.
Ladies, I believe you probably have heard this brought up
many times, but we are going to do this again this morning.
Janet, would you please join me up here, Janet Galian, the
treasurer of the organization I'm about to speak of.
There is a group that has been formed 20 some years. It's
known as SONCO, and it is Spouses of Past National Commanders
Organization. This group every time there is a death, makes a
presentation if it is a death of a spouse, and I have the honor
as a member of this organization, I have been asked to present
a donation to our National Educational Loan Fund in memory of
L. Kit Seal Feighner, and Jack is a member of our organization.
Mrs. Janet Galian. Also, on behalf of SONCO, these are
contributions from individual members. A donation was made from
Jack Feighner and from Phyllis Greaney and Joe Maldet, and this
money is to be used also for the Educational Loan Fund in
memory of Kit Seal from SONCO. [Applause.]
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Janet.
Mrs. Elizabeth Fancher. Madam Commander, Libby Fancher from
Ohio. May I approach the podium?
Commander Hicks. Yes, ma'am.
Mrs. Fancher. I don't want to get me in trouble. The
delegates of Ohio would also like to make a donation to the
Educational Loan Fund in memory of Kit Feighner that we loved
so much. [Applause.]
Commander Hicks. Having heard the final Credentials report,
I wish to thank the members of the Nominating Committee for
their port effort and time. I would like at this time to
discharge the Nominating Committee and all other convention
committees. Would the chairman of the Nominating Committee
please come forward, Louise Rapisand from Texas.
Ladies, this is a report of the committee, and there's no
action to be taken at this time on it.
Mrs. Louise M. Rapisand. Delegates, good morning to you all
from the eyes of Texas. Before I start to read the report, I
would like to tell you that this has to be the finest committee
that I have ever served on, and, as some of you know, I've
served several years on the Nominating Committee, and to get 21
women to be in a room and to be as congenial as these 21, it
was the neatest blend of minds and wit and love that I have
experienced in a long time. And I do want to thank all of them.
We had an excellent advisor, Jane Troutman, our immediate PNC,
and she just was wonderful, because she knew everything that we
didn't know.
And I just thought that you all should know that this time,
we finished in record time at 4:30 on Tuesday. There was no
Wednesday morning last-minute deliberations. So I think that I
would like to read the committee first and have them stand and
let you acknowledge that they did a fantastic job.
From District 1, Phyllis Greaney; District 2--would you
stand when I call your name? District 2, Jeanne Le Porte;
District 3, Grace Boland; 4, Frances Banghardt; 5, Andee
Silver; 6, Mary Parrish; 7, Delores Roussey; 8, Virginia
Mitchell; 9, Vicky Grier; 10, Gloria Boozer; 11, Grace Nagel.
I'm sorry. That was Edith Cottrill, because we had a change
there.
District 12 was Nelda Wilson; 13, Hannelore Ciccarelli; 14,
Katherine Pearson; 15, Dorothy Van Hoy; 16, Melba Morgan; 17,
Florence Valgardson; 18, Donna Sellers; 19, Kathryn Wiley; 20
was Louise Rapisand; and 21, Gertrude Tidwell; advisor, Jane
Troutman. And I think they did wonders. [Applause.]
The Nominating Committee of the Disabled American Veterans
Auxiliary held their first meeting on Monday, July 29th, 1996
in the Norwich Room at the New Orleans Riverside Hilton. We are
pleased to submit the following slate for your consideration to
serve as the 1996-97 officers:
Commander, Margaret Hass from North Dakota [applause];
senior vice-commander, Evelynne Dunn from Nevada [applause];
1st junior vice-commander, Evelyn Dorsey from Washington, D.C.
[applause]; 2nd junior vice-commander, Paula Raymond from
Illinois [applause]; 3rd junior vice-commander, Phyllis Novak
from New York [applause]; and 4th junior vice-commander, Esther
Westlake from Washington. [Applause.]
Chaplain, Carol Gray, Michigan [applause]; and judge
advocate, Shelia Allred, North Carolina. [Applause.]
The secretary who served on the committee was Kathryn
Wiley, District 19, I think Kathryn--would you stand? There she
is in the back. Thanks, Kathryn. You did a great job.
[Applause.]
And this is submitted by Chairman Louise Rapisand and
Advisor Jane Troutman.
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Louise and committee.
At this time, I would like all officers to please leave the
podium and go back to your respective districts for the purpose
of election of officers.
I'd like to appoint three tellers at this time to approach
the platform: Jan Bennett, Nevada; Gwen McCracken, Michigan;
and Delores Roussey, Florida, please.
Adjutant Tedrow. Jeanne Le Porte, would you act as a
teller, please? Could you come up here and act as a teller,
please?
Commander Hicks. Elaine Majors, would you please be a
teller? Thank you. And later you'll see where the other two
ladies couldn't.
Okay, ladies, you have heard the report to the Committee on
Nominations. Margaret Hass has been nominated by the committee
for the office of national commander. Are there any other
nominations?
Mrs. Judith Steinhouse. Madam Commander, Judy Steinhouse,
United Number 8, North Dakota. May I approach the podium?
Commander Hicks. Yes, ma'am.
Mrs. Steinhouse. Madam Commander Barbara, National Adjutant
Maria, past national commanders, delegates and guests: I am
proud to second the nomination of Margaret Hass for the office
of national commander of the Disabled American Veterans
Auxiliary. Margaret is a life member of Minot Unit Number 4 in
North Dakota and lives in Bowbells with her husband, Vic, a
disabled American veteran who served in the Navy during World
War II. They have three children and seven grandchildren.
Margaret is very active in her unit, even though she has to
travel 68 miles for the meetings. Her two daughters and two of
her granddaughters are life members in Minot Number 4. The two
younger granddaughters are junior members. Vic's two sisters
and three nieces bring the total number of family supporters in
her unit to 12.
She has served as Department of North Dakota commander,
National Executive Committeewoman for District 14, National
History chairman, Community Service, Americanism, Legislation
and Mae Holmes chairman. She served two years as national
chaplain, national 4th, 3rd and 2nd junior vice-commanders and
senior vice.
As a member of the Foundation Board of the North Dakota
Lisbon's Veterans Home, she has another excellent opportunity
to serve the veterans she loves so much.
I am pleased and proud to second the nomination of Margaret
Hass for the office of national commander. Thank you.
[Applause.]
Commander Hicks. Are there any other nominations? Hearing
none, I declare the nominations closed for the office of
national commander. All those in favor of Margaret Hass for the
office of national commander, signify by saying Aye; opposed.
Congratulations. [Applause.]
Congratulations, Margaret. You've just been elected
national commander. [Applause.]
Evelynne Dunn has been nominated by the committee for the
office of national senior vice-commander. Are there any other
nominations?
NEC 18th District Janet W. Bennett. Madam commander, Janet
Bennett, Unit 7, Carson City, Nevada. May I approach the
podium, please?
Commander Hicks. Yes, ma'am.
NEC Bennett. National Commander Barbara, National Adjutant
Maria, national officers, past national officers, members and
guests of the Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary. I am proud
to second the nomination of Evelynne Dunn from the State of
Nevada, the silver state, for the office of national senior
vice-commander for the Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary for
the year 1996 and '97.
Evelynne is eligible through her late husband, Fred, who
was wounded during the Battle of the Bulge in World War II, and
also through her late son, Monty, who was a Vietnam veteran.
Evelynne is a charter and life member of Sunrise Mountain Unit
13 in Las Vegas, and has advanced through all the offices of
the unit level and has been unit commander twice.
Currently she is serving as state Executive Committeewoman.
On the state level, Evelynne has held all elective and many
appointed offices, serving as state commander in 1986 and '87.
She was instrumental in organizing the Women Helping Women
Seminar in Las Vegas. Evelynne has conducted many Auxiliary
workshops.
On the national level, Evelynne has served on the Mae
Holmes and the Constitution and Bylaws Committee. Evelynne has
served as co-chairman of the 1989 and '95 National Convention
in Las Vegas. Evelynne was the 18th District National Executive
Committeewoman for the years 1990 and '92, serving on the
National Finance Committee as chairman of this committee in
1991 and '92. In the years of 1992 and '93, she served as
national chaplain with dignity, respect and honor that the
office deserves. Evelynne served as 3rd junior vice-commander
for the year 1993 and '94, and was Americanism chairman. She
also served as national 1st junior vice-commander and was the
Membership chairman for the years 1994-95, 1995 and '96.
Evelynne is a volunteer at the Las Vegas Medical Center,
serving coffee and doughnuts to veterans several times a month.
As a driver for the DAV Transportation Network, she transports
veterans to the hospital appointments in California, a round
trip of 470 miles. Evelynne is the first to volunteer when
someone is needed, working with dignity, enthusiasm and
compassion, which shows how much she enjoys helping others.
As a past state commander, on behalf of the delegation and
the membership of the great silver state of Nevada and the 18th
District, I am honored to second the nomination of Evelynne
Dunn for the office of national senior vice-commander for the
years 1996 and '97. [Applause.]
Commander Hicks. Thank you, Jan.
Are there any other nominations? Hearing none, I declare
the nominations closed for the office of national senior vice-
commander. All those in favor of Evelynne Dunn for the office
of national senior vice-commander, signify by saying Aye; those
opposed. The Ayes have it, and Evelynne Dunn has been elected.
[Applause.]
Evelyn Dorsey has been nominated by the committee for the
office of national 1st junior vice-commander. Are there any
other nominations?
Ms. Regina Coates. Madam Commander, Regina Coates, Federal
Unit 1, Washington, D.C. May I approach the podium?
Commander Hicks. Yes, ma'am.
Ms. Coates. Good morning. It gives me great honor to
nominate my grandmother, Evelyn Dorsey, as national 1st junior
vice-commander. First, I will tell you the business part, the
stuff I'm supposed to tell you. Then I'll tell you a little
mushy stuff. [Laughter.]
Okay. Evelyn Dorsey has been a life member of the DAV
Auxiliary since 1976, and is eligible for membership through
her late husband, Garnett, my grandfather. A member of Federal
Unit 1, Washington, D.C., she has held most unit officer
positions, including commander, senior, junior vice-commander
and adjutant, and served on various committees.
On the state department level, she has served as treasurer
and state commander and is currently adjutant-treasurer.
At the national level, she has served as National Executive
Committeewoman for the 6th District and is chairman of the
National Finance Committee. Since being elected a national
junior vice-commander, she has chaired the Community Service
Program and is currently National Legislative chairman.
A native Washingtonian, Evelyn received her formal
education in the nation's capital. For over 35 years, she was
employed, retired by the U.S. Army Materiel Command and the
D.C. Department of Human Services. She devotes much of her time
and energy to church, Auxiliary and community activities. She
is on the Board of Directors of the Phyllis Wheatley YWCA; the
Board of Directors of the Starter Baptist Home; a member of the
Mayor's Committee on Persons With Disabilities; and chairman of
the Board of Trustees at our church.
She is the proud mother of four and has nine grandchildren,
one plus me. One is eight plus me. [Laughter.]
I'm not a mushy person, so I don't tell my grandmother how
proud I am of her, but there's a part of a song that really
fits her. It says something like, ``Did you ever know you were
my hero? You're everything that I would like to be. I can fly
higher than the eagle, because you're the wind beneath my
wings.''
Anything that I try to do or want to do, my grandmother's
always there. She's a sweet lady not only here, but all the
time, 24, 7, 365, and I love her very much. And it gives me
great honor to second the nomination as a 1st national junior
vice-commander. [Applause.]
Commander Hicks. Are there any other nominations? Hearing
none, I declare the nominations closed for the office of
national 1st junior vice-commander. All those in favor of
Evelyn Dorsey for the office of national 1st junior vice-
commander, signify by saying Aye; those opposed. The Ayes have
it, and Evelyn Dorsey has been elected to the office of
national 1st junior vice-commander. [Applause.]
Paula Raymond has been nominated by the committee for the
office of national 2nd junior vice-commander. Are there any
other nominations?
Ms. Karen S. Eccles. Madam Commander, I am Karen Eccles,
Alton Unit 3, Illinois. May I approach the podium, please?
Commander Hicks. Yes, ma'am.
Ms. Eccles. Commander Barbara, national officers, past
national commanders, delegates and alternates and guests here
assembled: On behalf of the State of Illinois and the 12th
District, I am both pleased and proud to second the nomination
for Paula Raymond for the office of national 2nd junior vice-
commander.
Paula is a life member of Alton Unit 3 in Illinois. She has
served all offices of her local unit and State Department of
Illinois. She is presently serving as your national 3rd junior
vice-commander, and with this, Americanism chairman.
Paula is employed as an administrative assistant in Family
Service and Visiting Nurses Association. She has a son, Darren,
serving in the U.S. Navy in his fourth year of a six-year
enlistment. She has a daughter, Karen, that's me. [Laughter.]
And I have been a member of the organization since I was hours
old, and just this year became a senior member. [Applause.]
Paula's eligibility is through her father, a World War II
veteran. She lives with here husband, Byron, and me, and we
have heard, ``I am home,'' and ``I am leaving'' quite often
this year as she traveled with her work and for the DAV
Auxiliary on local, state, district and national levels.
We of the 12th District in the State of Illinois are proud
of Paula, and we feel that she has served us exceptionally well
in the past and will continue to do so with honor and
distinction. I stand here very proud and happy to second the
nomination of Paula Raymond for national 2nd junior vice-
commander. Thank you. [Applause.]
Commander Hicks. Are there any other nominations? Hearing
none, I declare the nominations closed for the office of
national 2nd junior vice-commander. All those in favor of Paula
Raymond for the office of national 2nd junior vice-commander,
signify by saying Aye; those opposed. The Ayes have it, and
Paula Raymond has been elected to the office of 2nd junior
vice. [Applause.]
Phyllis Novak has been nominated by the committee for the
office of national 3rd junior vice-commander. Are there any
other nominations?
Mrs. LePorte. Madam Commander, Jeanne LePorte, Department
of New York, may I approach the podium?
Commander Hicks. Yes, ma'am.
Mrs. LePorte. Madam Commander Barbara, National Adjutant
Maria, national officers, PNCs, delegates, members and guests:
It is with extreme pleasure that I stand before you to second
the nomination of our past state commander, Phyllis Novak.
You have seen and participated in her dynamic History and
Community Service Seminars at our National Fall Conferences.
You have read her eye-catching inserts in our national
mailings. Her infectious enthusiasm for the Disabled American
Veterans Auxiliary is obvious at our national conventions.
We in the Empire State have benefited from her many ideas,
the most outstanding enabling us to make quota for the first
time in many years. She continues to serve the New York State
Department, having been elected to the Finance Committee in our
June convention.
We in the Department of New York are proud of the way
Phyllis has served as national 4th junior vice-commander. We
are sure you will agree with us and the Nominating Committee
that Phyllis Novak is the candidate for national 3rd junior
vice-commander. Thank you. [Applause.]
Commander Hicks. Are there any other nominations? Hearing
none, I declare the nominations closed for the office of
national 3rd junior vice-commander. All those in favor of
Phyllis Novak for the office of national 3rd junior vice-
commander, signify by saying Aye; opposed. The Ayes have it,
and Phyllis Novak has been elected to the office of national
3rd junior vice-commander. [Applause.]
Would your please stand, Phyllis? Thank you.
Ester Westlake has been nominated by the committee for the
office of national 4th junior vice-commander. Are there any
other nominations?
Mrs. Florence Valgardson. Florence Valgardson, past
national commander. May I approach the podium?
Commander Hicks. Yes, ma'am.
Mrs. Valgardson. National Commander Barbara, Maria and
delegates to this convention: It is with great pleasure that I
second the nomination of Esther Westlake for the position of
the national 4th junior vice-commander for 1996-97.
Esther is a life member, and she joined the DAVA in 1980
through her father, who is a World War II veteran, who died of
his service-connected disabilities. Her husband, Dale, and her
five brothers and a sister are also disabled American veterans.
As an active member, she has served as unit junior vice-
commander, commander, five years as treasurer, two years as the
adjutant, and as chairman of all the committees. She has also
served as district senior vice-commander and commander, state
senior vice-commander and state commander, three years as judge
advocate, and two years as the adjutant, and is presently on
the state Finance Committee.
Esther served as the deputy VAVS representative for two
years before becoming a VAVS representative at the Spokane VA
Medical Center, and she is presently the deputy.
As an employee of the Department of Washington, the DAV,
Esther is the hospital service coordinator and department
service officer at the Spokane VA Medical Center. She serves on
the Female Veterans Advisory Board, Native American Veterans
Advisory Board, and Congressman George Nethercutt's Veterans
Advisory Board. As a member of the Executive Board of the
Inland Empire Allied Veterans Association, she is active in the
homeless veterans outreach.
Esther has just completed one year as the 19th District
National Executive Committeewoman. She has attended three
National Fall Conferences and eight National Conventions. She
has served on the National Convention Committee for
Americanism, Legislation and five times on the National
Constitution and Bylaws Committee. In 1995, she was the
National Constitution and Bylaws Convention Committee chairman.
Esther is married to a service-connected disabled Korean
Era veteran, and they have eight children between the two of
them. The youngest are ages 13 and 15, which are still at home.
Her husband is active in the parent organization on the local
and the state level, and in their free time--they should have a
little bit, I would imagine--Dale and Esther are active in two
bowling leagues.
It's with great pride and great honor that I second this
nomination, as she has served the Auxiliary well, and she will
continue to do so on the national level as your 4th junior
vice-commander. Thank you. [Applause.]
Commander Hicks. Are there any other nominations? Hearing
none, I declare the nominations closed for the office of
national 4th junior vice-commander. All those in favor of
Esther Westlake for the office of 4th junior vice-commander,
signify by saying Aye; opposed. The Ayes have it, and Esther
Westlake has been elected to the office of national 4th junior
vice-commander. [Applause.]
Carol Gray has been nominated by the committee for the
office of national chaplain. Are there any other nominations?
Mrs. Betty Benzing. Madam Chairman, Betty Benzing, State of
Michigan commander. May I approach the podium, please?
Commander Hicks. Yes, ma'am.
Mrs. Benzing. National Commander Barbara, National Adjutant
Maria, national officers, past national commanders, delegates
and guests: It is my pleasure to second the nomination of Carol
Gray for national chaplain. Eligibility is through her late
grandfather, Andrew Biddell.
Carol is a life member of Wood Tazelaar Number 11, where
she started as a junior member and now serves as junior vice-
commander and Community Service chairman. Carol has held all
unit offices and many chairmanships over the years. On the
state level, she served as chaplain for nine years before going
through the chairs and becoming commander 1986-87. She was then
state adjutant for the next seven years.
During her 20 years as a state officer, she was also
History chairman nine times. Several of those books received
national awards. She is now my state Standing Rules Committee
chairman and VAVS deputy at the Outpatient Clinic in Grand
Rapids.
She has attended many Fall Conferences. This is her tenth
National Convention, and she was National History chairman for
two years and has served on History, Constitution and Bylaws
and Nominating Committees. She was national chaplain last year,
'95-96.
Carol and her husband, Ken, have three children. Her
daughter is also a life member. She has five grandsons, but
Number 1 granddaughter, Samantha, is a junior member.
She has a loving spirit and will, as usual, be an asset to
our organization. Our Great Lakes State of Michigan gives our
support to her, and I thank you very much. [Applause.]
Commander Hicks. Are there any other nominations? Hearing
none, I declare the nominations closed for the office of
national chaplain. All those in favor of Carol Gray for the
office of national chaplain, signify by saying Aye; opposed.
The Ayes have it, and Carol Gray has been elected to the office
of national chaplain. [Applause.]
Shelia Allred has been nominated by the committee for the
office of national judge advocate. Are there any other
nominations?
Immediate Past National Commander Jane Troutman. Madam
Commander, Jane Troutman, past national commander. May I
approach the podium?
Commander Hicks. Yes, ma'am.
Immediate Past National Commander Troutman. National
Commander, national officers, past national commanders,
delegates and guests: On behalf of the State of North Carolina,
I am very proud to read the seconding speech for Shelia C.
Allred for the office of national judge advocate based on her
qualifications and many years of experience as a member and
leader of this organization.
Shelia first became a member of the Junior Auxiliary at age
nine, and has remained an active and productive member. She has
attended 68 state conventions throughout the United States and
22 National Fall Conferences. Shelia is a life member of
Concord Unit 27 and has held all local unit offices. On the
state level, she has served as state junior and senior vice-
commander, state commander for one year and five months, also
state judge advocate nine years, state adjutant for the
Department of North Carolina for five years.
Shelia was National Executive Committeewoman for the
National 5th District for two years. She has served on various
committees during her 21 National Conventions she has attended,
including the National Finance Committee for three years. She
served as national junior vice-commander, National Community
Service chairman, national 3rd junior vice-commander, National
Americanism chairman, national 2nd junior vice-commander,
National Legislative chairman, national 1st junior vice-
commander, National Membership chairman, National Constitution
and Bylaws advisor, national senior vice-commander, advisor to
the Mae Holmes Committee.
Shelia was also elected as National Auxiliary commander for
the 1989 Convention in Las Vegas, Nevada, and has just
completed her fourth term as national judge advocate.
Shelia is president of Allco Research and Consultants of
North Carolina. She holds membership in the American Legion
Auxiliary and is a charter member of the American
Businesswomen's Association. She's active in the community with
``A History in the Making'', the North Carolina Museum of
History Association, a member of the National and North
Carolina Genealogy Societies and a past member of the Board of
Trustees of the Greater Piedmont Chapter of the National Sudden
Infant Death Syndrome.
Shelia is a graduate of the Cabarrus County School System
and Rowan County Community College. She attended the University
of North Carolina and holds a certificate in early childhood
development. She also holds a certificate in training on
effective speaking and human relations. She also instructed as
a graduate assistant at the Dale Carnegie Association.
For Shelia, the Disabled American Veterans is really a
family organization. Her mother is a past state commander. Her
husband, Jim, served two terms as department commander and is
National Executive Committeeman for the 9th District. Their
daughter, Tara Dahle is a life member of the Auxiliary, and
presently serves as state Junior Activities chairman for North
Carolina.
Shelia has one granddaughter, Brittany Michaela, who has
been a Junior Auxiliary member since birth.
An article was recently written about Shelia for a
nonprofit world newspaper by the DAV National Communications
Director Tom Keller. This article was accepted for publication
by the Society for Nonprofit Organizations. Tom was quoted as
saying, ``Shelia was the kind of leader that speech writers
dream about, because she's not afraid to say what's in her
heart.''
Shelia's life and work enfolds a record of achievement.
This was obtained because of her devotion and dedication to
you, the members of this organization. If elected again, Shelia
will again fulfill her obligations as national judge advocate
with knowledge, dedication, honor and dignity.
It is an honor and a personal privilege for me to second
the nomination of my best friend, Shelia C. Allred, for the
office of national judge advocate. [Applause.]
Commander Hicks. Are there any other nominations? Hearing
none, I declare the nominations closed for the office of
national judge advocate. All those in favor of Shelia Allred
for the office of national judge advocate, signify by saying
Aye; opposed. The Ayes have it, and Shelia Allred has been
elected to the office of national judge advocate. [Applause.]
The election having been completed, will all the officers
return to their former stations on the podium, please?
Would you come to the podium for the purpose of introducing
the pages and the National Executive Committee, please?
While the national sergeant-at-arms is doing this, I would
like to personally thank you for all that you have added to our
convention with your lovely, lovely music. [Applause.]
I'm sorry, I'd like to dismiss all the convention
committees at this time, please. [Applause.]
Member. Commander Barbara, I just wanted to say that I am
so pleased to be here, and I want to thank all of those people
who were responsible for bringing me up here and asking me, and
I just love you all, and thank you. And I hope we see you
again. [Applause.]
Mrs. Donna Horton. National Commander Barbara, national
officers, past national commanders, delegates and guests of the
Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary 74th Convention: I'd like
to thank you, Barb, for appointing me as national sergeant-at-
arms. It has been an honor to serve in this position.
First, I'd like to introduce the personal pages. Margaret
Hass's personal page is Miriam Kiser. Evelynne Dunn's personal
page is Helen Parcelle. Evelyn Dorsey's page is her
granddaughter, Regina Coates. Paula Raymond's page is her
daughter, Karen Eccles. Phyllis Novak's page is Betty Nelson.
Shelia Allred's page is Renee Jones. Carol Gray's page is Betty
Benzing. [Applause.]
At this time, I'd like all the color bearers and banner
bearers to stand and be recognized. You did an excellent job
when you brought our Colors in. [Applause.] Thank you, all of
you.
The NECs that served as pages were: District 1, Jacqueline
Fossiano; District 2, Betty Nelson; District 3, Grace Boland;
District 4, Arline Phillips. She was here, but she had to leave
early because she's going home to celebrate here 50th wedding
anniversary. So Beatrice Albanese from District 4 has stepped
in for her. Thank you.
District 5 is E. Jimi Hayes; District 6, Mildred Velazquez;
District 7, Grace McLaughlin; District 8, Vernice Eunice;
District 9, Vicky Grier; District 10, Zona McNeal; District 11,
Jane Wood; District 12, Zona Schalow; District 13, Esther
Houston; District 14, Annette Bain-Wilson; District 15, Delitha
``Dee'' Staples; District 16, Vera Davis Flatow; District 17,
Dorothy Dudoich; District 18, Janet Bennett.
Until today, District 19 was Esther Westlake, but since she
was running for--she is 4th junior vice, Kathryn Wiley has
stepped in her place. Thank you. District 20 is Ann Hester. And
District 21 is Gertrude Tidwell. [Applause.]
And now it's hard to say it to these kids. They have been
great. We also had some juniors that acted as our pages. We had
Angela Morales from New Jersey; Sarah Ann Coursey, she's from
Arizona; Erin Murray from Nevada; Jenny LeMars from
Mississippi; and my granddaughter, Nicole. Thank you, girls for
taking part, and you are the future of our Auxiliary. Thank
you, all of you. [Applause.]
Now last, but by no means least, are the pages for our
national commander. They did a great job taking care of our
national commander through the whole year. They're Diane Akers,
please stand, Diane. Diane's leaving today. Virginia
Merrifield, who has really been my right hand. Without her, I
don't know how I would have done this either. And Jackie Hicks-
Sayre, Barbara Hicks' daughter. [Applause.]
I just want to thank all of you for all your help. Thanks.
[Applause.]
Commander Hicks. I personally again would like to thank
each and every one of them. They've done so much work. Just
because they're running up and down and changing back and forth
doesn't mean when they're in the back of the room, they're just
sitting there. They're running errands, and they're doing a
lot, and we really do appreciate all of them, including our
beautiful little juniors. [Applause.]
Donna, you too, have done a very good job as sergeant-at-
arms. Thank you so very much. [Applause.]
On Tuesday, we had our little quota kickoff, fun time,
whatever. I'd like to thank the Department of New Jersey for
that. I really appreciated them putting them together. Thank
you. [Applause.] Would New Jersey stand, please? Thanks,
ladies.
And now I want to thank everyone who has made my term so
rewarding and fantastic. That is one of my new words:
fantastic! Everything this year has gone that way. My junior
officers, for dedicating so much of their time to attend
conferences and other department conventions nationwide on my
behalf; the past national commanders for their wise counsel,
unbound energy, love and dedication to our Auxiliary; to the
National Auxiliary staff for the work they perform on behalf of
us day after day; to my good friend, our national adjutant,
Maria Tedrow. Maria, thank you for your expertise, your
guidance, your willingness to help in every possible way.
To all department and unit members who have sent cards,
photographs, notes, gifts, telephone calls, your hospitality,
smiles, friendship and love; to the great Department of Ohio
and to my unit, Champaign County Unit 31 for your love and
support; to my personal pages for their tremendous work.
Each and every one of us has someone that we're really
close to and that we really count on. I have a lady that it
didn't matter what time of day I called her, what it was, she'd
say, ``Settle down, Barb. Now, let's talk this through. We can
do this.'' Or she would say, ``I don't think that word sounds
right in there. We need to make that plural. When you've got
singular and plural, let's get this both in the same context.''
Whether it's taking me to the airport, opening her home to
me many hours--in Florida, I've stayed with her--Grace Nagel,
you are absolutely one of the truest friends anyone could ever
have, and I love you so much. [Applause.]
To my lovely daughter, Jacki, your support, encouragement,
criticism have meant more than you will ever know. You are my
daughter, you are my friend, and I love you, sweetheart.
[Applause.] And the mother of my three beautiful
granddaughters, Nicole, Tiffany and Megan.
To my handsome son, Jeffrey, my biggest supporter, all six
foot three inches of him, who has encouraged me for so long,
even though he couldn't be here today I love him very much,
too.
Thank you so much for my wonderful, wonderful year. It's
memories that I shall cherish for the rest of my life.
[Applause.]
Thank you, each and every one, ladies. Thank you so much.
What a beautiful family to have, our DAV Auxiliary family.
The national adjutant will now call the roll of the newly
elected National Executive Committeewomen and their alternates.
As your name is called, please come forward for the purpose of
installation.
Adjutant Tedrow. As National Commander Barbara Hicks just
explained, only the newly elected NECs and alternates will be
called down front to be installed, because the other ones were
installed last year, and you do serve a two-year term.
From District 2, we have Dolores Robidoux and Jeanne Le
Porte. Would you please come down front? From District 4,
Beatrice Albanese and Florence Kehne is the alternate. From
District 6, Mildred Velazquez is the NEC, and Neva Langston is
the alternate. From District 8, Elaine Majors is the NEC, and
Dorothy Pearce is her alternate. From District 10, Gwen
McCracken is the NEC, and Kathy Drako is her alternate.
From District 12, Beraldine Errett is the NEC, and Nellie
Smithee, who just happens to be Paula Raymond's mother, is the
alternate. From District 14, Sharon Kramer is the NEC, and
Sheila Champeau is the alternate. From District 16, we have
Alma Fowlkes as the NEC, and Dolores Wingett is the alternate.
From District 18, Joan Fletcher is the NEC, and Ann Jones is
the alternate. And we had a change in District 19, and at this
time in District 19, Kathryn Wiley is the NEC and Bea Puleo is
the alternate. From District 20, June Bradford is the NEC, and
Joyce Humes is her alternate.
Please come down front for the purpose of installation, and
then after that we will have the installation of the national
officers.
Commander Hicks. You are requested to remain silent during
the ceremony of installation.
As newly elected National Executive Committeewomen and
alternates, are you willing to assume the oath of your office?
[Response of, ``I am.'']
Commander Hicks. Place your right hand over your heart,
pronounce your name, and repeat after me the oath of your
office. I, Barbara Hicks, having been selected as a National
Executive Committeewoman or alternate of this Auxiliary, do
most solemnly pledge myself to faithfully and impartially
perform in letter and spirit all duties of the office I am
about to enter. I promise to obey the lawful orders of my
superior officers and exact the obedience of others thereto to
the best of my ability and means.
When my successor has been duly selected and installed, I
promise to surrender to her all the property of the
organization in my possession, all of which I now affirm.
You may lower your hands.
Members, be seated. Delegates, members and guests, I now
present to you the National Executive Committeewomen and
alternates of the Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary. I trust
you will aid them in their performance of their duties. With
your help, their term of office will be highly successful.
About face. [Applause.]
Would the newly installed National Executive Committee and
alternates please return to their seats.
The national adjutant will now make some announcements.
Adjutant Tedrow. [Lost and found announcement.]
Yesterday, because of all--I was a little remiss. We do
this every year, and I'm going to make an announcement, and
then everybody's going to get up and say, ``Well, it's mine,
too.'' But yesterday I was asked to announce that it was Jeanne
Le Porte's birthday. Happy birthday, Jeanne. And I'm sure there
are other people's birthdays in the room. Anybody celebrating a
birthday today?
Okay. Those celebrating a birthday today or this week,
please get up and we'll sign ``Happy Birthday.''
[Singing of ``Happy Birthday.'']
Adjutant Tedrow. All right. Now for some serious
announcements. We are going to immediately go into the NEC
meeting in this room following the adjournment of this
convention, and at that time, of course, your national officers
will be installed, and I'm sure you want to see that and hear
their remarks.
To the national officers and the NECs--I hope you're all
listening, national officers and NECs--you will line up for the
Grand Ball in the Burgundy Room at 6:45. The presentation of
the national officers and the NECs will be in the Grand
Ballroom at 7:30.
Fall Conference. Boy, it's closer than we like to think
about it. Fall Conference is September the 26th through the
28th at the Galt House in Louisville, Kentucky. And the room
rate is $74 plus tax, plus tax, plus tax. [Laughter.] And it's
the same price for a single or a double. But, as you know, when
we go to the Galt, you get a type of suite when you register,
with a refrigerator and a table and a parlor, so it's well
worth the rate.
The 1997 National Convention, of course, is going to be in
Las Vegas, Nevada. If you didn't lose enough money here, wait a
while. You can lose the rest. Las Vegas, Nevada. And it will be
the week of August the 16th through the 21st. I said if they
keep getting any later, we're just going to adjourn the
convention and go right into our Fall Conference right in the
same hotel. Okay. Las Vegas, Nevada, August the 16th through
the 21st at the Hilton. And it will be $85 plus tax.
Also, if there are those that are to be proposed as
chairmen or have been approached by our incoming national
commander to serve a chairmanship for the coming year, we would
like you to remain through the NEC meeting, please. Certainly
would make it easier if we had your names, addresses, and could
give you some information.
That's it, Commander.
Commander Hicks. Yes, Past National Commander Pearson?
Mrs. Katherine Pearson. Barbara, fantastic! And you have
been fantastic. On behalf of the past national commanders, this
fantastic lady has proven her ability throughout the year and
years before that. I've known Barbara for a long, long time.
She has been fantastic. She hasn't changed. She's still as
fantastic.
And as members of your convention, the past national
commanders would like to have you have this, and we're looking
forward to you joining us. [Applause.]
Commander Hicks. Thank you very much. Thank you, Past
National Commander Katherine and all past national commanders.
Adjutant Tedrow. Someone handed me an address if you want
the name of the jazz band that played yesterday. I have their
name and their address, and I was told to give it out. The name
of the band, of course was the South Lafourche High School Jazz
Band. That's spelled L-a-f-o-u-r-c-h-e. Okay? Post Office Box
160, Galliano, Louisiana, 70354. If anyone needs the address, I
have it up here in front. Thank you.
Commander Hicks. Is there any other business to come before
this convention? If not, at this time I will ask the national
chaplain to give the closing prayer, at which time the
convention will be adjourned. We will then go immediately into
the National Executive Committee Meeting and the installation
of new officers.
After the prayer, would the pages please escort the
dignitaries down front?
Chaplain Gray. Would you all please rise and join hands?
You know, if each of you could see what we see from up here
when you're all joined hands as one and singing together, you
would know why I have tried to continue this. And I'm going to
ask you to do it one more time at the end of this prayer.
God, please bless each and every member of this Auxiliary.
Enhance our understanding of service and loyalty. Give wisdom
to our leaders. Beside them, we'll unite. Protect them in their
travels and guide them with Your light.
[Singing of ``God Be With You Till We Meet Again.'']
Chaplain Gray. Amen.
Commander Hicks. The 74th National Convention of the
Disabled American Auxiliary is now adjourned.
[Whereupon, the meeting adjourned at 11 o'clock a.m.,
August 1, 1996.]