NEWSLETTER February 2020 (2).pdf - Thurman

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Volume 9 Issue 2 - February 2020 Page 1 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY American Legion Post 637 February News Letter Dedicated to the men and woman that served in the United States Military. Their sacrifice maintained our nations safety and security. God bless all Veterans - Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow and may God continue to Bless the United States of America. Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 9 Issue 2 - February 2020 Page 2 AMERICAN LEGION POST 637 City Hall, 6360 Fountain Square Dr. in Citrus Heights www.Facebook.com/AmericanLegionPost637 NEWSLETTER FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY COMMANDERS CORNER Sylvia Thweatt - Commander tled in the Assembly gallery awaiting the start of the after- noon session. You frequently hear that nothing gets done in the government. Well, we definitely witnessed it that day. The afternoon session was scheduled to start at 1 pm. And it did. The Speaker announced the Assembly in session and the roll call was read. Out of 80 Assemblyman that are elected to represent us, none were on the floor. Some started trickling in, sipping their coffee, talking to each other, checking their phones and looking into their computers. They continued to chat while a bill up for vote was being read, stopped talking to vote and then went back to chatting and visiting with each other. The Senate floor was a bit more composed but not even On February 3rd a group of Post members were part a half of its 40 members was present. These are the people of a historical event at the Capitol. Assemblyman Kevin Ki- that are supposed to represent us and work for us. We pay ley, who was the driving force behind this first time ever Ad- their wages and this lack of work ethics is outrages. So journment in Honor of a Veteran delivered his speech at the please, before you check that box on March 3rd, make sure Assembly. We then moved to the Senate, which was a last you have done your research. Look at it this way. You are the minute addition, where Senator Brian Jones delivered his Ad- boss and they are applying for a job. Their resume is their journment. The man honored was 1st Lt. Ryan Michael O’Bri- record of accomplishments. What did they promised and what en who passed away on November 24 at the age of 98. He have they actually done? How many times did they flip on was a decorated World War II Veteran who had a monumen- where they stand on some very important issues? Where is tal impact on his nation and community. For his service, he their agenda taking us? Are they running to better their lives was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, 4 Air Medals, or ours? the Order of the Purple Heart, and the European African Mid- dle Eastern Medal with 3 Battle Stars. On July 10, 2018, he Thank you, Steve Gall, Jim Monteton, Barry Fitzgerald, received Legion of Honor Medal, the government of France’s James Miranda and Ben Lehr, for joining me at the State highest civilian honor. His 484th Bomber Group was also Capitol. It was a long lunch less day filled with pride, honor awarded the Presidential Unit Citation for their part in the and some disappointment, but well worth it. destruction of oil refineries in Romania, depriving German Here is a link to the video of the Senate Adjournment with a troops of critical resources. Few of us arrived at the Capitol shot of us in the gallery. grounds early to stroll thru the park to visit the California Vi- etnam Veterans War Memorial, Purple Heart Monument and https://youtu.be/UsSibFuSPaM the California Firefighters Memorial. We then met with the rest of our group inside for a meet and greet with Assembly- man Kiley and representatives from other American Legion and VFW Posts and Auxiliaries. We were treated to a guided tour of the Capitol including both chambers and then we set- Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 9 Issue 2 - February 2020 Page 3 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY First Lieutenant Ryan Michael O’Brien In February 1943, he enlisted in the Air Force. After basic training he was sent to the University of Arkansas, then on to Pre-Flight training at Ellington Field in Houston, Texas. Ryan then attended the Pan American Celestial Navigation School at the University of Miami in Coral Gables, Florida. He graduated from there in June 1944 and was then commissioned a Second Lieu- tenant. Of the 250 cadets in his class at that teaching institution, Ryan was the only one to receive 100% on the final exam covering the theory of celestial navigation. Ryan then joined a 10 man crew at March Field in Riverside, Cali- fornia and began training in a B-24 in July 1944. His very first mis- sion was on August 15th, 1944. It was the invasion of Southern France and was followed by an additional 34 air missions. On Ryan’s 35th Mission, his tail gunner shot down the 109 that had fired the 20 MM shells into the gas tank in the wing, but incredibly, those shells did not explode. The shells were all duds intentionally tary. With family and friends present Ryan was conferred an official minus the firing mechanism that had come from Oskar Schindler’s state assembly Resolution presented on the floor by Assemblyman ammunition factory in Czechoslovakia. This is what saved their B- Kevin Kiley. 24 from being blown out of the sky, thereby adding Ryan’s crew; other American and Allied force crews to Schindler’s list of the On March 22, 2019, Senator Brian Jones (San Diego) officially 1,200 Jews that Oskar Schindler had saved from the gas chamber. “Introduced” Ryan on the floor of the state senate during session. All Senators present then honored Ryan. According to Senate Presi- First Lieutenant Ryan Michael O’Brien was awarded the Distin- dent Senator Toni Atkins it was the very first time she had to call guished Flying Cross; 4 Air Medals; the Order of the Purple Heart; that moving session back to order. and the European African Middle Eastern Medal with 3 Battle Stars. On July 10, 2018, Ryan received the government of France’s On November 9th, 2019, Ryan received Special Congressional highest civilian honor; it’s Legion of Honor Medal. His 484th Honors for his lifetime of Achievements from Congressman Tom Bomb Group was also awarded the Presidential Unit Citation for McClintock at the 9th Annual “Spirit of Veterans Day...Saluting their part in the destruction of oil refineries in Romania. Community Excellence” Recognition Ceremony. He was also hon- ored again at that Ceremony by Guy Michelier, Consul Honoraire As a civilian, Ryan has called Fair Oaks, California his home for de France. over four decades. During that time, he founded and was the Chief Executive Officer at the Mason’s Association. He was also the lob- Ryan was married twice and his children from his first marriage byist in state legislature for that organization. include daughters Erin, Colleen, Patty and son Ryan Jr. Ryan Sr. passed away peacefully on November 24, 2019 at his home in Fair Since retiring, Ryan has continued to remain very active in the com- Oaks with his loving family present. munity. His organizational affiliations were many and included the American Legion Post #383; VFW Post #6158; Military Order of the Purple Heart Chapter #385; American Society of the French Legion as a Chevalier (Knight); Gray Eagles; P-38; 484 Bomb Group Reunion Team ; Knights of Columbus and others. In his retirement, Ryan also remained very active at the State Capi- tol as a very passionate advocate for California’s veteran communi- ties. On March 19, 2019, Assemblyman Kevin Kiley (Granite Bay) honored Ryan’s service and sacrifice to country as well as his vol- unteer efforts to give back to the community once out of the Mili Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 9 Issue 2 - February 2020 Page 4 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY “The American dream lives—not only in the hearts and minds of our own countrymen but in the hearts and minds of millions of the world's peo- ple in both free and oppressed societies who look to us for leadership. As long as that dream lives, as long as we continue to defend it, Amer- ica has a future, and all mankind has reason to hope.” Remarks at the Annual Washington Conference of the American Legion, 1983 Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 9 Issue 2 - February 2020 Page 5 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY Stephan Gall scrubbing. 1st Vice • Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at Commander least 60% alcohol. 916-215-0685 • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with un- washed hands. • Novel Coronavirus Disease • Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Stay home when you are sick or becoming sick. What you should know • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue (not your VA is working closely with The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other federal partners, monitoring hands) and throw the tissue in the trash. an outbreak of Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. Cases have been identi- • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and sur- fied in the United States* and other international locations.* faces. This new strain belongs to a group of viruses called corona- Getting a flu shot is recommended. virus which can cause symptoms like fever, cough and short- ness of breath. What precautions to take when trav- VA has activated its emergency management coordination eling cell (EMCC) and is implementing an aggressive and collabo- The U.S. government has imposed travel restrictions for all rative public health response to protect and care for Veter- non-essential travel to China. Additionally, U.S. citizens re- ans. At this time, no Veterans receiving care at VA have turning from the region will undergo enhanced screening pro- been diagnosed with 2019-nCoV. United States is actively cedures. Generally, foreign nationals (other than immediate screening everyone who has traveled in China for this new family of U.S. citizens, permanent residents and flight crew) disease. Americans who come back from the part of China who have traveled in China within 14 days of their arrival, will where the number of infections is very high are required to be denied entry into the U.S. If you have international travel limit close contact with other people and report changes in plans, review this specific guidance for travelers.* their health. VA has been planning for this type of event and is prepared to protect and care for Veterans who receive their What to do if you have symptoms health care from VA. If you have both What precautions to take • symptoms of fever, cough, and shortness of breath and • have either recently returned from China or have direct Currently, there is no vaccine to prevent the 2019-nCoV in- exposure to others diagnosed with 2019-nCoV. fection and no medication to treat it. CDC believes symptoms Call before visiting your local VA medical center to seek care. appear 2 to 14 days after exposure. The best way to prevent Tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms. infection is to avoid exposure. These basic health measures To avoid spreading the virus to others, follow the precautions can reduce the spread of infection. listed above • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. An easy way to mark the time is to hum the Taken from Veteran News. “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice while Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion -- Volume 9 Issue 2 - February 2020 Page 6 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY Alex Candela finally we would start up both engines and run the plane 3rd Vice through its paces by checking the interior instrument panel, check operation of flaps, ailerons and rudder on the horizon- Commander tal stabilizer and finally to insure smooth operation of both prop engines. Any discrepancies were reported on the pre- 916-990-4895 flight checklist and the plane was sent to the hanger to get repaired. My Military History (Part 1) What was the purpose of these Planes since all the gear capa- ble of detecting submarines was gone? These planes were My name is Alejandro J Candela but most people call me used for Proficiency Time for all pilots, stationed at Barbers “Alex”. Point to continue getting their Flight Pay. They were re- quired to fly 4 hours a month and they flew these Stoofs to I joined the Navy in January of 1967. And like most recruits, the Big Island which was about 3.5 hours. In order to make from California, I attended “Boot Camp” in San Diego. Six up the I/2 hour we would do “touch-n-goes” on other islands weeks went by quickly because there was a war going on in like: Lanai, Molokai or Kauai. Vietnam and the Navy needed to train us as rapidly as possi- ble. On the last day of Boot Camp, my Company commander On the Big Island we would land in Hilo and go to the restau- gave me my orders and told me that “Candela you are one rant at the airport. They had the best banana cream pie I’ve lucky S O B because I was headed for Barbers Point Naval ever tasted. Man, it was good pie!! Air Station in Hawaii”. During special holidays like: Mother’s Day and Valentine’s I went home long enough to attend a small fare well party Day we would go into Spivey’s Flower Shop to buy flowers. and say good by to my mom and dad and sisters I think the exotic mix would cost $7.50 of the most beautiful tropical flowers I’ve ever seen. We would load the plane When I arrived at Barbers Point, it was a Friday and I was in with boxes and boxes of flowers to take back to the ones we my Dress Blues and I was carrying a 60lb sea bag on my loved. shoulder. If you’ve never been in Hawaii the first thing that hits you when you deplane is the humidity. And if you’re This Job assignment was one of the best assignments I ever wearing wool Dress Blues, look out, you’re going to be cov- had in the Navy. I loved every day of the two years I spent ered in sweat. on the Island. It was Paradise!! Every thing was just fine until January 1969. (to be continued) On Monday, I reported for duty at Hanger 4, Met the X O and was assigned to the flight line where a squadron of 8 - U S Alex Candela 2B Submarine trackers where lined up on the tarmac. Even Third Vice though the “Stoofs”, as we called them, were designated as “Anti-Submarine” they were all stripped of the electronic gear except the seats where the technicians sat. As a member of the flight Line Crew, we were responsible for maintaining the air craft in” Flight Ready” condition. That meant that we: insured the plane was fueled and ready for takeoff. We washed the plane on a periodic schedule, visually check the outside of the plane for loose cowling, damage, check the props and engines for damage, look for leakage of oil or hydraulic fluid and report the source on the checkoff sheet we carried, clean the pilot and co-pilot’s wind- shields inside and out, clean the interior of the plane from the Pilot’s area to the rear tail seat, where Plane Captain sat, and US 2-B Submarine Tracker Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 9 Issue 2 - February 2020 Page 7 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY Ron Myers Adjutant 916-723-7324 STOCKTON, California - William White, a 104-year-old U.S. Marine veteran who earned a Purple Heart in World War II, is celebrating Valentine's Day this year like never before, surrounded by a mountain of 200,000 love letters and well-wishes sent from all over the world. The cards and notes to "Major Bill," a retired Marine Major who lives in an assisted living facility in Stockton, Califor- nia, began pouring in after a fellow resident launched a social media campaign called "Operation Valentine," asking friends and strangers alike to send greetings to honor Major White. At the outset, the goal was a modest 100 cards - about one for every one of White's birthdays - but the response has out- stripped all expectations. "It's just too fantastic," said White, surrounded by waist-high stacks of postal boxes filled with cards. On a recent day, White's great-granddaughter Abigail Sawyer, 9, delivered a bundle of cards from her fourth-grade class, many of them decorated with the American flag. A week before Valentine's Day, which lands on Friday this year, at least 70,000 pieces of correspondence had arrived from people in every U.S. state and several foreign countries including 50 cards from Post 637 members. So much mail has been delivered that White's family has had to enlist volunteers to help open the cards and read the warm wishes to White, who retired after 35 years of active service, including time in the Pacific theater of WWII, when he was wounded at Iwo Jima. For those sending Valentines, White represents something bigger than himself. Many of them have conveyed a deep ap- preciation not only to White for his service, but to all veterans who died too soon to hear their gratitude. A woman identified only as Jane told White that her late grandfather also fought in World War II as a U.S. Army para- trooper. Had he lived, she said, he would be turning 100 years old this year. "I miss him so much," she wrote. "By sending you this card, I feel as though I am sending my grandfather a card." It's all new to White, who said he never really celebrated Valentine's Day, even when his wife of 42 years was alive. "It's something I've never heard of or seen," White said. "All of a sudden here, like a ton of bricks. I'm sort of speech- less." Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 9 Issue 2 - February 2020 Page 8 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY The GI Bill The Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944 (commonly known as the GI Bill) almost did- n’t happen. The battle came down to a deadlocked conference committee in June 1944 that was broken by one of history’s most dramatic efforts to get a bill signed into law. Former Illinois Gov. John Stelle, was appointed to lead the committee to distill all of The American Legion’s preferred benefits — including free college tuition, vocational training and $20 a week in unemployment pay for a maximum of 52 weeks — into a comprehensive bill containing 10 provisions. Past National Commander Harry W. Colmery of Kansas, in December of 1943, drafted the legislation by hand in a room of the Mayflower Hotel. Several modifications would be made before it reached Congress, but the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944 did not deviate from its 10 key provisions: college education, vocational training, readjustment pay, home and business loans, discharge review, adequate hospitalization, prompt settlement of disability claims, mustering-out pay, employment services and concentration of all these provisions under the Veterans Administration. On March 17, 1944, the measure unanimously passed in the Senate, but the House re- mained stalled until May 18. A conference committee was assembled to marry the Senate and House versions. The House conferees were deadlocked 3-3 with the tie-breaking vote, that of Rep. John Gibson, who was in rural Georgia recovering from an illness. The Legion got through to an operator in Atlanta who called Gibson’s home every five minutes until he answered at 11 p.m. The Legion, assisted by military and police escorts, then took Gibson on a 90-mile high-speed trip through a rainstorm to the Jacksonville, Fla., airport where he was flown to Washington, arriving shortly after 6 a.m. He cast the vote to send the bill to the president’s desk and promised to make public the name of anyone who would vote against it, along with their reasons. The conference committee tie suddenly became unanimous in favor. On June 22, 1944, flanked by lawmakers and members of The American Legion special committee, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944 into law. Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 9 Issue 2 - February 2020 Page 9 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 9 Issue 2 - February 2020 Page 10 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY River Cats Games We are working on two River Cat games. Opening day Tuesday April 14, 6:30 pm first pitch, and Military appreciation day, Sat- urday May 23 first pitch 7:10 pm. The tickets will be $20. Each and we will be on the third base side behind the home dugout. Please contact me if you are interested in attending one or both of these games. Thank you Steve Gall 1st Vice Commander Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 9 Issue 2 - February 2020 Page 11 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY American Legion –100 years old and 2.5 million strong Dear Legionnaire, The United States has the most comprehensive system of assistance for Veterans of any nation in the world. As the U.S. entered World War I in 1917, Congress established a new system of Vet- eran’s benefits, including programs for disability compensation, insurance for service personnel and veterans, and vocational rehabilitation for the disabled. By the 1920s, three different federal agencies administered the various benefits: The Veterans Bu- reau, the Bureau of Pensions of the Interior Department, and the National Home for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers. In 1921, the Legion’s efforts resulted in creation of the federal Veterans Bureau (which is now the Veterans Administration) as part of a legislative victory to consoli- date these three agencies. After persistent pressure from The American Legion, the Veterans Administration was created in 1930, solidifying the relationship between the Veteran’s organization, rep- resenting the stakeholders, and the federal agency whose responsibility is to ensure efficiency, quality, and timeliness of services for veterans. Over the decades, the VA’s role expanded beyond disability benefits and health care. It will take up many of the GI Bill’s provisions after June 1944, including education, home and business loans. In 1989, the Veterans Administration was elevated to Cabinet-level status as the De- partment of Veterans Affairs (VA) after supportive lobbying by The American Legion. The Legion fought hard for the change, arguing that veterans deserve representation at the highest levels of government. Today, the Legion continues to lobby for adequate funding to cover medical, disabil- ity, education and other benefits for veterans. These efforts are possible thanks to the commitment of our Legionnaires. As a member of The American Legion, you are helping to advocate for veterans and their families. Some of our legislative priorities include supporting the VA’s suicide prevention efforts, creating lifetime electronic health records, reclassifying cannabis for medical research, instituting gender-specific health care for women veterans, and funding programs to end veteran homelessness. Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 9 Issue 2 - February 2020 Page 12 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY February 1 - Birthday - Hollywood director February 9, 1943 - During World War II in the John Ford (1895-1973) was born in Cape Eliza- Pacific, U.S. troops captured Guadalcanal in the beth, Maine. Known for The Grapes of Wrath Solomon Islands after six months of battle, with and The Searchers, he also served in World War 9,000 Japanese and 2,000 Americans killed. II as chief of the Photographic Unit of OSS, and February 9 - Birthday - William Henry Harri- earned two Academy Awards for documentaries son (1773-1841) the 9th U.S. President was made during the war. born in Berkeley, Virginia. He took office on February 3, 1943 - An extraordinary act of her- March 4, 1841 and died only 32 days later after oism occurred in the icy waters off Greenland developing pneumonia from the cold weather after the U.S. Army transport ship Dorchester during his inaugural ceremonies. was hit by a German torpedo and began to sink February 10, 1942 - The first Medal of Honor rapidly. When it became apparent there were not during World War II was awarded to 2nd Lt. Al- enough life jackets, four U.S. Army chaplains exander Nininger (posthumously) for heroism on board removed theirs, handed them to fright- during the Battle of Bataan. ened young soldiers, and chose to go down with the ship while praying. February 12 - Birthday - Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865) the 16th U.S. President was born in February 4 - Birthday - Thaddeus Kosciusko Hardin County, Kentucky. (1746-1817) was born in Poland. He served in the American Revolution, building the first for- February 20, 1962 - Astronaut John Glenn be- tifications at West Point. He then returned to Po- came the first American launched into orbit. land and fought against a Russian invasion. February 22 - Birthday - George Washington February 6 - Birthday - Legendary baseball (1732-1799) was born in Westmoreland County, player George Herman "Babe" Ruth (1895- Virginia. 1948) was born in Baltimore, Maryland. February 23, 1942 - During World War II, the February 6 - Birthday - Ronald Reagan, (1911 first attack on the U.S. mainland occurred as a -2004) the 40th U.S. President, was born in Japanese submarine shelled an oil refinery near Tampico, Illinois. Santa Barbara, California, causing minor dam- age. February 8, 1910 - The Boy Scouts of America was founded by William Boyce in Washington, February 26 - Birthday - American frontiers- D.C., modeled after the British Boy Scouts. man "Buffalo Bill" Cody (1846-1917) was born in Scott County, Indiana. Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 9 Issue 2 - February 2020 Page 13 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 9 Issue 2 - February 2020 Page 14 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY Vet Death Preps Update 01 ► What DoD Will Provide Upon Death Burial in a VA national cemetery -- Every eligible veteran who is entitled to burial in a national cemetery as long as space is available and the following conditions are met: Veter- an was discharged under conditions other than dishonorable. Veteran was not subsequently convicted for offenses involving prohibited weapons of mass destruction, genocide and inter- national terrorism. With certain exceptions, service beginning after Sept. 7, 1980, as an en- listed person and service after Oct. 16, 1981, as an officer must have served for a mini-mum of 24 months or the full period for which the person was called to active duty. For a description of requirements refer to www.cem.va.gov Burial benefits in a VA national cemetery include the following: gravesite, headstone, marker or medallion, opening and closing of the grave, and perpetual care of the grave site. Many national cemeteries have columbaria or gravesites for cremated remains. Gravesites in national cemeteries cannot be reserved. Many national cemeteries are closed to new casket in- terments. Funeral directors or others making burial arrangements must apply at the time of death. Spouses and minor children of eligible veterans and of servicemembers may also be buried in a national cemetery. If a surviving spouse of an eligible veteran marries a nonveteran, and remarriage was terminated by death or divorce of the non-veteran, the spouse is subsequently eligible for burial in a national cemetery. Visit the National Cemetery Administration website at www.cem.va.gov for a listing of all national cemeteries and state veterans cemeteries. Send questions on benefits eligibility to VA at [email protected]. Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 9 Issue 2 - February 2020 Page 15 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY Sacramento County Veterans Services Established in 1946 by the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors, Veterans Services is respon- sible for providing benefit entitlement determinations, claim development, claim filing, advocacy, and case management services to the veterans population of Sacramento County. DHA Veterans Services can assist you with the following: Service-Connected Disability Compensation Benefits Non Service-Connected Disability Pension Benefits Dependency Indemnity Compensation (DIC) Benefits Death Pension Benefits Aid & Attendance Entitlement VA Medical Care Eligibility & Access Vocational Rehabilitation Benefits California College Fee Waiver Program VA Life Insurance State Veterans Homes Requests for Military Records Discharge Upgrade Information Burial Benefits Other Ancillary Benefits & Programs - The office is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. In Person: 2007 19th Street Sacramento CA 95818 Phone: 916-874-6811 or E-mail: [email protected] ( Information thanks to County Supervisor Sue Frost) Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 9 Issue 2 - February 2020 Page 16 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY IWO JIMA at 75 The U. S. Marines invaded the island of Iwo Jima from February 19, 1945 to March 16, 1945. This was the first major defeat of the Imperial Japanese Army in 5,000 years. The Battle of Iwo Jima (19 February – 26 March 1945) was a major battle in which the United States Marine Corps and Navy landed on and eventually captured the island of Iwo Jima from the Imperial Japanese Army (IJA) during World War II. The American inva- sion, designated Operation Detachment, had the goal of capturing the entire island, including the three Japanese-controlled airfields (including the South Field and the Central Field), to provide a staging area for attacks on the Japanese main islands. Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 9 Issue 2 - February 2020 Page 17 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY Lowe’s Expands Military Discount National home improvement retailer Lowe’s has expanded its everyday military dis- count program to include all honorably discharged veterans, as of May. The chain also has expanded the 10 percent discount to Lowe's online shopping, which will include free parcel shipping. It will provide for faster checkout and add the ability to use the discount at self-checkout in stores, said Lowe's spokeswoman Karen Cobb. But the procedure for getting the discount has changed: Active-duty service members, retirees and veterans must sign up online for the Lowe’s personal shopping card to qualify for the discount. This is not a credit card. Spouses and dependent children up to age 18 can also get the discount, although the online signup process doesn’t include an option for “spouses” or "children." "The discount is linked to a MyLowes account, which can be shared by a household,” said Megan Lewis, a Lowe’s spokeswoman. “Once the service member signs up for the dis- count program, it will be linked to a MyLowes card that can also be used by their spouse.” Lowe’s has offered discounts to military members and veterans for more than a dec- ade. Previously, the 10 percent discount at Lowe’s was available every day to active-duty ser- vice members, retired military and other veterans receiving VA benefits who showed their identification. For other honorably discharged veterans, the discount was limited to three days – Memorial Day, July 4 and Veterans Day. “The verification process is designed to be a simplified one-time signup,” Lewis said. “Military and veteran customers can simply present their MyLowes card at checkout rather than show military credentials each time.” Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 9 Issue 2 - February 2020 Page 18 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY A Little History……………………… Clark Vandersall Poling The Four Chaplains, also sometimes referred to as the "Immortal Chaplains" or the "Dorchester Chaplains", With the outbreak of World War II, Poling decided were four United States Army chaplains who gave their lives to enter the Army, wanting to face the same danger as oth- to save other civilian and military personnel as the troop ship ers. His father, who had served as a World War I chaplain, SS Dorchester sank on February 3, 1943, during World War told him chaplains risk and give their lives, too—and with II. They helped other soldiers board lifeboats and gave up that knowledge, he applied to serve as an Army chaplain, their own life jackets when the supply ran out. The chaplains accepting an appointment on June 10, 1942 as a chaplain joined arms, said prayers, and sang hymns as they went with the 131st Quartermaster Truck Regiment, reporting to down with the ship. Camp Shelby, Hattiesburg, Mississippi, on June 25. Later he reported to Army Chaplains School at Harvard, where he The relatively new chaplains all held the rank of first would meet Chaplains Fox, Goode, and Washington. lieutenant. They included Methodist minister the Reverend George L. Fox, Reform Rabbi Alexander D. Goode John Patrick Washington (Ph.D.), Roman Catholic Priest Father John P. Washing- ton, and Reformed Church in America minister the Rever- Father Washington's first parish was at St. Gene- end Clark V. Poling. Their backgrounds, personalities, and vieve's, in Elizabeth, New Jersey. He later served at St. Ve- denominations were different, although Goode, Poling and nantius for a year. In 1938, he was assigned to St. Stephen's Washington had all served as leaders in the Boy Scouts of in Kearny, New Jersey. Shortly after the Pearl Harbor attack America. They met at the Army Chaplains School at Har- of December 7, 1941, he received his appointment as a chap- vard University, where they prepared for assignments in the lain in the United States Army, reporting for active duty on European theater, sailing on board Dorchester to report to May 9, 1942. He was named Chief of the Chaplains Reserve their new assignments. Pool, in Ft. Benjamin Harrison, Indiana, and in June 1942, he was assigned to the 76th Infantry Division in Ft. George George Lansing Fox Meade, Maryland. In November 1942, he reported to Camp Myles Standish in Taunton, Massachusetts and met Chap- In 1942, Fox volunteered to serve as an Army chap- lains Fox, Goode and Poling at Chaplains School at Harvard. lain, accepting his appointment July 24, 1942. He began ac- tive duty on August 8, 1942, the same day his son Wyatt The enlisted in the Marine Corps. After Army Chaplains school at Harvard, he reported to the 411th Coast Artillery Battalion at Camp Davis. He was then united with Chaplains Goode, Poling and Washington at Camp Myles Standish in Taunton, Massachusetts, where they prepared to depart for Europe on Four board the Dorchester. Alexander David Goode He originally applied to become a Navy chaplain in January 1941, but was not accepted. After the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941, he applied to the Army, receiving his appointment as a chaplain on July 21, 1942. Chaplain Goode went on active duty on August 9, 1942, and was selected for the Chaplains School at Harvard. Chaplain Goode was then Chaplains assigned to the 333rd Airbase Squadron in Goldsboro, North Carolina. In October 1942, he was transferred to Camp Myles Standish in Taunton, Massachusetts and reunited with chaplains Fox, Poling and Washington, who had been among his classmates at Harvard. Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 9 Issue 2 - February 2020 Page 19 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY In Memory of the fallen Post 637, Police Officer On the 21st day of each month, we ask that all of you That died take a moment to show your support by remembering those who were prisoners of war (POW) and those who are still miss- ing in action (MIA), as well as their families. The Chaplain’s Corner Barry Fitzgerald sent to my room and spoke to the steward about the storm. He said, "Oh, we've al- Chaplain ready come through that storm. It's behind us." 916-692-5140 If we are believers in Jesus Christ, we have already come through the storm of judgment. It happened at the Cross. Don't be bound by your guilt or your fears any longer, but realize that sin's penalty has THE STORM IS BEHIND US already been paid by Christ-completely and fully. You have cast all my sins behind Your back. Isaiah 38:17 HOPE FOR TODAY We shall never understand the extent of Guilt is the game of the enemy; he wants God's love in Christ at the Cross until we you to focus on every wrong you've done or understand that we shall never have to had done to you. Choose, instead, to be stand before the judgement of God for our consumed with the Cross of Christ and em- sins. All our sins-without exception-were brace the grace available to you. placed on Christ, and He took the judgment we deserve. He finished the work of redemp- Luke 1:37 - "For the word of God will never tion. fail". Once while crossing the North Atlantic Taken from the book "Hope for Each Day" by in a ship, I (Billy Graham) looked out my Billy Graham porthole when I got up in the morning and saw one of the blackest clouds I had ever seen. I was certain that we were in for a terrible storm. I ordered my breakfast Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 9 Issue 2 - February 2020 Page 20 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY POST 637 POST OFFICER’S Sylvia Thweatt Commander David Paige Ron Myers 916-792-9669 Finance Officer Adjutant 916-801-8554 916-723-7324 Stephan Gall Maynard Johnson Alex Candela 1st Vice 2nd Vice 3rd Vice Commander Commander Commander 916-215-0685 916-331-8716 916-990-4895 Barry Fitzgerald Jim Monteton James Miranda Chaplain Historian Service Officer 916-692-5140 916-726-9390 530-919-5255 Vacant Stephany Sward Vacant Assist. Chaplain Sgt. at Arms Assist. 916-967-7266 Service Officer Richard Tkach Jim Monteton Jack Mintz Assist. Sgt. at Arms JAG Officer Photographer 916-723-1932 916-726-9390 916-966-9041 Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 9 Issue 2 - February 2020 Page 21 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY I am very proud to announce that earlier this week, Sacramento County approved an ordinance that provides FREE business licenses to Veterans. This was an effort that I have been pushing for since I took office last year, because I believe we should do whatever we can as a county to support and honor our local veterans. Our veterans have made enormous sacrifices, and this is a small way we can acknowledge their service. To be eligible for this fee waiver, an individual must be a Veteran of the armed services, who has been honorably discharged or released from active duty under honorable conditions from any branch of the United States military. The Tax and License Collector may require documentation as proof of military service and honorable discharge or release status to verify applicant eligibility. For more information about business licensing, click the link below: http://www.finance.saccounty.net/Tax/Pages/BusLicFAQ.aspx Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 9 Issue 2 - February 2020 Page 22 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY MEMBERSHIP NEWS Ron Myers Adjutant 916-723-7324 Post Membership 637 If you have not yet renewed your membership, please do as soon as possible. As of February 15th, we are at 90.38% of those renewed. I know it is all too easy to put your renewal notice away or put it to the “later” pile, but it is important that you renew now. The 2020 year membership numbers are as follows: Source Goal 2020 Paid % as of Post 637 260 235 90.38 2-15-2020 * This include New Member’s & Transfers Dues for the new year 2020 is $45.00 which covers July 1, 2019 to June 30, 2020 Mail checks to: David Paige American Legion Post 637, P O Box 1, Citrus Heights, CA 95611 NEXT MEETING Tuesday February 18, 2020 6:30 pm Citrus Heights City Hall 6360 Fountain Square Dr. Citrus Heights, Ca. Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 9 Issue 2 - February 2020 Page 23 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY Advertising ……………………………. Guns N Stuff 5060 Roseville Rd North Highlands, CA 95660 916-334-3209 Veteran Owned DAVID PAIGE OWNER NOR CAL KITCHENS & BATH CABINETRY 11367 TRADE CENTER DR. #105 RANCHO CORDOVA, CA 95742 916-575-9777 www.norcalkb.com Did you know that our post is on Facebook? AmericanLegionpost637.com/ Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 9 Issue 2 - February 2020 Page 24 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY Advertising ……………………………. Reichert’s Funeral And Cremation Services Dignity Michael Moesch Community Outreach Memorial 7320 Auburn Blvd. Mesothelioma Guide: 1-888-572-9011 121 S. Orange Avenue | Suite 1450 | Orlando , FL Citrus Heights, CA 95610 32801 www.MesotheliomaGuide.com www.reichertsfuneral.com 916-729-2229 Fax: 916-722-9485 Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 9 Issue 2 - February 2020 Page 25 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY July 4, 2019 November 11, 2019 Independence Day Veterans Day July 10, 2019 December 7, 2019 2nd Qtr Ceremony Pearl Harbor Remembrance Service at Dixon January 8, 2020 August 4, 2019 4th Qtr. Homeless Coast Guard Day Service at Dixon August 24, 2019 April 6, 2020 Veterans Appreciation Picnic Army Day September 11, 2019 April 9, 2020 Patriot Day 1st Qtr Homeless September 14, 2019 Service at Dixon POW/MIA Recognition Day May 18, 2020 September 18, 2019 Armed Forces Day Air Force Day May 27, 2020 September 22, 2019 Memorial Day Sunday Fun Day June 14, 2020 October 5, 2019 Flag Day/Army Birthday 637 Battle of Bands / BBQ October 9, 2019 3rd Qtr Homeless Service at Dixon And remember - the 3rd Tuesday of each month is the General Meeting for Post 637. October 27, 2019 We start at 6:30 and meet at the Citrus Heights City Hall in the Community Room. Navy Day November 10, 2019 Marine Corps Day Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 9 Issue 2 - February 2020 Page 26 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY Preamble to the Constitution of The American Legion For God and Country We associate ourselves together for the following purposes: To uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States of America; to maintain law and order; to foster and perpetuate a one hundred percent Americanism; to preserve the memories and incidents of our associations in the Great Wars; to inculcate a sense of individual obligation to the community, state and nation; to combat the autocracy of both the classes and the masses; to make right the master of might; to promote peace and goodwill on earth; to safeguard and transmit to posterity the principles of justice, freedom and democracy; to consecrate and sanctify our comradeship by our devotion to mutual helpfulness. POST MEETING LOCATION Community Room, City Hall 6360 Fountain Square Dr. in Citrus Heights Meeting time is 6:30PM The following diagram may help you locate the exact location If you have information or an article you would like to add to the newsletter please send information to [email protected] Photo’s by Jack Mintz Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 9 Issue 2 - February 2020 Page 27 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY Welcome Home Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion