NEWSLETTER April 2021 (2).pdf - Thurman

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Volume 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 Page 1 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY American Legion Post 637 April 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 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 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 When the United States entered WWI in the fall of 1917, General Pershing realized there is a need for better com- munication on the Western Front. Since the male popula- tion either fought the war in Europe or worked in the war support efforts at home, he approved the recruitment of women operators. They had to be bilingual in English and French, mature age and high moral character. 7,000 wom- en applied but only 223 women were accepted. As the need arose, many more followed. They trained at Camp Franklin in Maryland before leaving for France. Since the War Department was not used to providing support for women, they contracted with YWCA to handle the housing, supplies and chaperones. Even though Hello Girls were Spring is in full swing, everything is blooming and required to wear Army uniforms, that they had to purchase looking pretty. I hope you are not suffering too much from themselves, and obey by Army regulations, they were con- all the allergies. After checking with the CH City Hall about sidered civilian contractors (no contract was ever offered) using their facility for our Post meetings, it is still not availa- and therefore not eligible for war risk insurance. In 1918 the ble. It looks like the magic date June 15 is the date they will House passed a bill with a provision addressing this issue, open for meetings. Our April Post meeting will be on Tues- but that provision was deleted by the Senate. After the war day, April 20 via Zoom starting at 6:30 pm. It is time for the ended, the request for official discharge papers was re- 1st round of nominations for the Executive Board, so please fused. 24 bills seeking Congressional recognition were in- try to join us. We are entertaining an idea to conduct our troduced between 1927 and 1977. Finally in November May Post meeting at a local park. Please let us know how 1977 Veteran Status/Honorable Discharge bill passed and you feel about it. was signed into law by President Jimmy Carter. By that time there were only 18 original Hello Girls left. Every May we are invited to participate in Memorial Even after the was ended, the operators were considered ceremony for Cpl. Singh, a marine KIA. This year the cere- essential and many were transferred to Paris. They were mony is on May 13, starting at 11:30 am at the Sikh Tem- gradually released through 1919 with the last operator re- ple at 1090 Main St in Roseville. lieved on January 20,1920. We started planning for the Picnic and Battle of the 30 operators received special commendations, many Bands and BBQs. The tentative dates are August 28 for the signed by General Pershing. Chief Operator Grace Banker Veterans Picnic and September 25 for the BOTB. was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal. The other day I was watching a live stream of Flag Raising over the WWI Memorial in Washington DC. The presenta- Stay safe and healthy and please reach out if you tion was little over an hour long and was narrated by Gary need anything. Sinise who, as you may know, is a huge veteran supporter. I learned a lot and I encourage you to go to Sylvia Thweatt www.worldwar1centennial.org and look around. The replay may be up by the time you read this. I’d like to share one of the stories I heard during the ceremony. Do you know who the “Hello Girls” were? They were switchboard operators in France during WWI. Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 Page 3 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY Stephan Gall painting and creative writing. If you’re interested in learning how to create something new, 1st Vice pay a visit to the CAVARTS Creation Station. Here you will find user-friendly courses, workshops, and the Artists’ Re- Commander source Library, where we’re 916-215-0685 building an easy-to-search list of services and service pro- viders, complete with reviews from a source you can trust: your fellow Veterans. Finally, make sure you check out the Posted on Tuesday, April 6, 2021 2:00 pm Posted in #VetResources, Events Calendar, where Guest Posts, Vets Experience by VAntage Point Contributor 3 com- you can discover upcoming workshops and other art-related ments 4k views events, searchable by date and location. Even in the best of times, Veterans often find it difficult to Don’t see something that interests you? Just let us know. We replace the feelings of belonging and purpose they felt dur- will add new events, topics, groups, and learning opportuni- ing their time in service. And this is most certainly not the ties as we go along, based on member interests. Members best of times. This is why like you will guide how this the national nonprofit, Challenge America, joined forces community grows and evolves over time. In other words, with the Heartstrings Foundation to create the Challenge we’re building this together. America Veteran Arts Community, CAVARTS.org. CAVARTS.org was designed by Veterans, for Veterans. CAVARTS offers a supportive and inclusive community where Veterans form new bonds forged on their shared in- If you are a Veteran who likes music or drawing or writing terest in the arts. or other forms of expression, CAVARTS was designed for you. Rediscover the sense of belonging and purpose you felt What is the Challenge America Veteran Arts Community during your service. Join (CAVARTS)? CAVARTS.org for free today. CAVARTS is more than a social network; it’s a community. To learn more about CAVARTS, please visit cavarts.org. It’s a safe and supportive space where Veterans can pursue Video about Challenge America and CAVARTS: youtu.be/ their artistic passions, discover new interests, or share their N01t0rX4Mfk. The sharing of any non-VA information does appreciation for the not constitute an art that moves them. You don’t have to be an artist to join. endorsement of products and services on part of VA. All you need is an interest in the arts and a commitment to supporting your fellow Veterans. -- CAVARTS welcomes all Veterans, regardless of discharge Steve Gall 1st Vice Post 637 status, era of service, gender or sexuality. If you raised your The one thing I can give, and still keep is my word. hand to take the Oath of Enlistment, we welcome you to join. What makes CAVARTS unique? On your first visit to the CAVARTS community, you will find an engaging conversation and so much more. For Veter- ans with more general interests, our homepage is a great place to start. It offers a free-ranging conversation and a user-friendly way to explore the other features that make up our community. When you are ready to move beyond the homepage, check out our Art Rooms. Here you will find more focused conver- sations and resources on specific art forms, like music, Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 Page 4 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY Alex Candela 3rd Vice Commander 916-990-4895 2021 CALIFORNIA BOYS STATE WITH A TWIST 2021 Boys State Virtual 83rd Session +This year's California Boys State certainly has given us some twists and turns in our journey to facilitate the 83rd Session of Boy’s State. Last Thursday the three boys selected to represent Mesa Verde HS and American Legion Boys State were ad- vised to sign onto the Zoom Mandatory Orientation session. At this time, only one of the boys replied in the affirmative. Still waiting on replies from the other two boys. However, when I tried to Join the meeting, I was locked out. Richard Tkash, my Co-chair, and I tried to join the meeting for 45 minutes to no avail, I Called Ted Hillyer, District 6 Chairman and he said that he was unable to attend the Orientation, also. Ted said that his computer is old and needs to buy a new one. I told him that I just bought a new computer and I still couldn’t get in! I guess I need to get my wife, Marsha involved. She’s my IT. The Good news is we have until the end of April 30 to make up the Mandatory Orientation session. More to fol- low on this journey, next month. Alex Candela 3rd Vice Commander Post 637 Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 Page 5 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY Maynard Robert Johnson OCTOBER 10, 1947 – FEBRUARY 20, 2021 Maynard Robert Johnson entered life eternal surrounded by his loving family on February 20, 2021 after a long fight with cancer. Maynard was proud to serve in the United States Navy. After the Navy, he attended Teterboro Aviation School where he graduated top in his class. He then worked on corporate jets ending his career with 30 years at Cessna Citation. Upon retirement, he found a love of woodworking. He and his wife of 50 years loved cruising and took many. He helped with veterans thru the American Legion post#637 of Citrus Heights. He was the Second Vice Commander and very proud of it. Maynard was a member of Advent Lutheran Church for over 35 years. He was known for his sense of humor and his love of family and his faith. He enjoyed spending a lot of time with family, especially a certain 9 year old. His grand- daughter Anna said, “Papa is really smart and knows everything”. Maynard was a lov- ing, caring person. He will be missed by his wife and all who loved him. Maynard was laid to rest on April 16 at Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon, CA. Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 Page 6 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 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 Page 7 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY Fees at national parks waived for veterans, Interior officials did not provide cost estimates for the move, but said that the policy change will affect about Gold Star families have started. 2,000 public locations across the country. Fees for the sites can range from a few dollars per person to nearly Starting in 2020, veterans and Gold Star families will be $100 for some weekly and annual passes. able to visit National Parks and other public lands for free, under a new initiative from the Department of the Interior For free access to the sites, veterans will have to pre- announced on Wednesday, November 11. sent a Department of Defense Identification Card, a Active-duty service members and their families are al- Veteran Health Identification Card, a government-issued ready granted free access to those sites under existing Veteran ID Card or a state-issued U.S. driver’s license department rules. The new announcement broadens or identification card confirming an individual’s status as that benefit to more than 20 million more individuals in a veteran. recognition of their service and sacrifice on behalf of the country. Gold Star family members can use similar Defense De- partment identification cards to verify their status. In a statement, Interior Secretary David Bernhardt said National parks officials already run promotions through- the move gives all veterans “free access to the iconic out the year to offer free admission to all visitors on cer- and treasured lands they fought to protect.” The policy tain holidays, including Veterans Day. goes into effect starting on Veterans Day, Nov. 11. Bernhardt and other federal officials made the an- While most national parks sites have remained open or nouncement during a ceremony at the Iowa Gold Star re-opened in recent months amid the ongoing corona- Museum, which focuses on the history of the state ’s vet- virus pandemic, some programs and facilities still have erans and their families. limited access. Parks officials encourage all visitors to check with local parks administrators before traveling to “Our veterans and Gold Star Families have made in- the sites to ensure safe visits. credible sacrifices to defend our freedoms and our Bernhardt also announced Wednesday plans to waives homeland,” Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, said in a entrance fees to national parks, wildlife refuges and oth- statement. “Ensuring that they are able to enjoy all of er public lands for all 5th grade students and their fami- the natural wonders of the country that they’ve served is lies from now until Aug. 31, 2021. The move was made one small way of saying thank you.” because many families may not have been able to take advantage of the department’s Every Kid Outdoors An- The policy includes admittance to well-known sites like nual 4th Grade Pass program because of pandemic pre- Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming, Mount Rush- cautions earlier this year. more in South Dakota, Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona and Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 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 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 Page 9 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY The American Legion District 6 Citrus Heights Post 637 You Are Invited Memorial Day, Monday May 31, 2021 11:00 am Every year, Sylvan Cemetery in Citrus Heights honors those that gave their lives in the defense of their county. We take time to salute the over 3.5 million men and women that have died in military service defending our country since 1775. This year the Memorial Day service is being planned to be held on Monday, May 31, 2021, at Sylvan Cemetery, 7401 Auburn Blvd., Citrus Heights at 11:00 am. We are planning on going forward with our Memorial Day ceremony at Sylvan Cemetery. Folding chairs will be provided for those that want to sit but there will be no mandatory seating arrangements. We would love to have you here but if you are concerned about your health and do not want to attend - we understand. On Thursday, May 27, we will be placing a cross and small American Flags on the 1,400 Veterans that are buried here at Sylvan Cemetery. These will remain from May 27 until June 1. If you would like to help, we would love to have you. We will start at 9:00 am. Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 Page 10 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 Page 11 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ALL CELEBRATING IN APRIL LEROY CALDWELL MICHAEL CARON ALAN DAVIS J L DAVIS ROBERT DOLLAHITE DONALD FINLEY KENNETH HOPKINS JERRY HOSKINS WELDON JONES GENE KESLER GREGORY KUSTER BENJAMIN LEHR ROBERT LEWIS WESLEY LEWIS ROY MCALISTER CURTIS MCCLENDON RONALD MILLS JOHN OLSEN DELBERT ORR DAVID PAIGE TIMOTHY POTTER LEONARD RODE KERMIT SCHAYLTZ NICHOLAS SCHMECK CHARLES WOOLSON Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 Page 12 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 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 Page 13 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY How did April 1 become "April Fools' Day"? Were you born on April 1st? If so, has that date bothered you your entire life? Legends have it that April Fools' Day began in France in 1564. Prior to 1564, April 1st used to be celebrated as New Year's Day. Then France switched from the Julian Calendar to the Gregorian Calendar, as called for by the Coun- cil of Trent in 1563. In the Julian Calendar, as in the Hindu calendar, the new year began with the spring equinox around April 1 and not January 1. Those who insisted on celebrating the "old" New Year's became known as April fools and it became common to play jokes on one another. Some also say that it has to do with Mother Nature fooling us. Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 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 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 Page 15 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY Some April History April 2, 1513 - Spanish explorer Ponce De Leon sighted Florida and claimed it for the Spanish Crown after landing at the site of present day St. Augustine, now the oldest city in the continen- tal U.S. April 2, 1792 - Congress established the first U.S. Mint at Philadelphia. April 2, 1982 - The beginning of the Falkland Islands War as troops from Argentina invaded and occupied the British colony located near the tip of South America. The British retaliated and de- feated the Argentineans on June 15, 1982, after ten weeks of combat, with about 1,000 lives lost. April 3, 1860 - In the American West, the Pony Express service began as the first rider departed St. Joseph, Missouri. For $5 an ounce, letters were delivered 2,000 miles to California within ten days. The famed Pony Express riders each rode from 75 to 100 miles before handing the letters off to the next rider. A total of 190 way stations were located about 15 miles apart. The service lasted less than two years, ending upon the completion of the overland telegraph. April 6, 1917 - Following a vote by Congress approving a declaration of war, the U.S. en- tered World War I in Europe. April 12, 1861 - The American Civil War began as Confederate troops under the command of General Pierre Beauregard opened fire at 4:30 a.m. on Fort Sumter in Charleston, South Carolina. April 12, 1945 - President Franklin D. Roosevelt died suddenly at Warm Springs, Georgia, after suffering a cerebral hemorrhage. He had been President since March 4, 1933, elected to four con- secutive terms and had guided America out of the Great Depression and through World War II. April 14, 1865 - President Abraham Lincoln was shot and mortally wounded while watching a performance of Our American Cousin at Ford's Theater in Washington. He was taken to a nearby house and died the following morning at 7:22 a.m. April 18, 1775 - The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere and William Dawes occurred as the two men rode out of Boston about 10 p.m. to warn patriots at Lexington and Concord of the approaching British. April 18, 1906 - The San Francisco Earthquake struck at 5:13 a.m., followed by a massive fire from overturned wood stoves and broken gas pipes. The fire raged uncontrollably for three days re- sulting in the destruction of over 10,000 acres of property and 4,000 lives lost. April 18, 1942 - The first air raid on mainland Japan during World War II occurred as General James Doolittle led a squadron of B-25 bombers taking off from the carrier Hornet to bomb Tokyo and three other cities. Damage was minimal, but the raid boosted Allied morale following years of unchecked Japanese military advances. April 22, 1864 - "In God We Trust" was included on all newly minted U.S. coins by an Act of Con- gress. April 30, 1789 - George Washington became the first U.S. President as he was administered the oath of office on the balcony of Federal Hall at the corner of Wall and Broad Streets in New York City. Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 Page 16 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 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 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 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 Page 18 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY Veteran Owned Business in our area Fritz & Company “Your Platinum Kohler Dealer” 5730 B Roseville Road Sacramento, CA 95842 Ph 916-344-0288 www.fritzgopower.com Email: [email protected] At Fritz & Company we believe quality KOHLER products, properly installed and applied in usage properly and maintained on a timely basis, will pay for themselves in peace of mind and reliable operation. Our Business is: About serving you. Your emergency power need IS our business. Our technicians are factory trained and certified. The technical aspects of generators and transfer switches are con- stantly evolving. It is important that we stay as current as possible with the new products that are unveiled several times each year! Who Are WE? Our co-owner, Bill Lane, also lead technician and sales manager, has been it the power generation industry for over 5 decades. A former Detroit Diesel Industrial Instructor and Field Service Engineer, Bill has been involved in the design stage, installation and maintenance phases of many of the emergency power systems that exist in Northern California, there are few systems that he is unknown to him. Owner and General Manager, Carol Lane heads up the parts and accounting departments, as well as being a factory certified technician. In August of 1994, we stepped into the world of being self-employed. Over the years we have developed a customer base of homeowners, radio and communication sites, businesses, ranches, special event centers, medical facilities, community service districts and county agencies across North-Eastern California, from Sacramento to the Sierra’s. We enjoy what we do, and most of that is helping educate people about the emergency generator systems that would be best suited to their needs. We provide onsite review of clients needs and work to stay within budgets. Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 Page 19 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY Page 1 Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 Page 20 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY Page 2 Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 Page 21 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY “The quality of a person's life is in direct propor- tion to their commitment to excellence, regard- less of their chosen field of endeavor.” Vincent Lombardi Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 Page 22 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY Army Day - April 6 They’re there at the front line, holding positions in the most dangerous territory in any mili- tary theater. They march hundreds of miles with packs that easily way more than they do, carrying needed supplies and equipment into locations that are often under heavy enemy fire. For many of them, the constant sound of mortar fire is their lullaby, and a silent night is one to dread where the enemy can come at any time, and their plans remain largely a mystery to these noble men and women. Army Day celebrates these most fundamental of the armed forces, and reminds us of the sacrifices they make to protect home and country. History of Army Day World War II was in full swing when Franklin D. Roosevelt sat the American Presidency. He held an unenviable position at the time, leading the American nation into a war that followed on the heels of what had been called “The War to End All Wars”. Little did they know the war to follow would be the most devastating and destructive war in history, and more lives would be lost during it than could they possibly could have imagined in their worst horror-driven nightmares. Vital to the efforts of every member of the Allies was their military, and most importantly those men and women who crossed foreign ground on foot to defend, recover, and take enemy posi- tions that would alter the flow of the war. Army Day was established to commemorate all members of all armed forces and the civilians that support them. It was clear he truly understood the function of our military men and women when he cited them as “A Mighty Arm of the Tree of Liberty”, knowing that they were all that stood between the safety, security, and peace of those who fought against tyranny and the cruel and dominating forc- es of the Axis of Evil that sought to destroy it all. Army Day serves as a reminder that everything that we hold dear is thanks to the efforts of these men and women, and the blood they spill in the name of our freedoms. Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 Page 23 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY In Memory of the fallen Post 637, Police Officer’s 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 in the line of duty 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 tion and anguish of heart" Chaplain (2 Corinthians 2:4). In the Garden of Gethsema- ne, Jesus, "being in agony,...prayed more ear- nestly" (Luke 22:44). After denying His Lord 916-692-5140 three times, Peter "went out and wept bitter- ly" (Luke 22:62). But when such times come (and they come to us all), God still loves us. He does not aban- don us. Remember: "The eternal God is your ref- uge, and underneath are the everlasting HE STILL SUSTAINS US arms" (Deuteronomy 33:27). The eternal God is your refuge. Deuteronomy HOPE FOR TODAY 33:27 People are sympathetic toward physical pain; When we hear the word "suffering" we usually friends rush in to offer support. Yet, we tend think of physical pain. But psychological suf- to feel abandoned in times of emotional fering is just as real - and sometimes more dev- pain. Jesus knows the unseen agony, and He has astating. not left you alone. It may be an inner grief or sorrow you can- Psalm 121:8 says "the Lord will watch over your not express, even to your dearest friend or coming and going both now and forevermore". spouse. It may sap your strength or paralyze you with anxiety. It may harm your relation- ships, or even grip you so tightly that it be- comes more than just a temporary problem, but a This was taken from the book "Hope for Each Day" serious psychological illness. by Billy Graham and the bible Paul knew what it was to experience - psychological -suffering; he told the Corinthi- ans he had written to them "out of much afflic- Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 Page 24 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY Vets. We Are The People Insights: We are the people, when the time has come you will be called upon to deter- mine the fate of this Nation. Our Founding Fathers understood the struggle that would continually tear at the Freedoms and Liberty that are naturally endowed. Dur- ing the Revolutionary War most were hesitant/ unwilling to fight or stand up for their Freedom and Liberties. Approx. 3% of the people chose to fight defend the un heard of idea that the Greatest Country the world had ever seen was born. As American citi- zens we have far more freedoms then most. Those freedoms have been slowly, incre- mentally taken away until now most have no concept of true freedom. People volun- tarily have given them away through votes and quiet submission to the Politicians that no longer fear the Citizenry. Look at the time we currently live in. You must ask for permission for almost anything you do, by fee or permit. Laws have been enacted by unelected Bureaucrats, the right to freely move around, assemble, practice religion as you see fit. The PC crowd has made so many things a violation of something, you are a racist, a homophobe, divide and conquer groups. There are so many laws you violate something everyday. BTW everything is for the children, (hint, it is never for the children). Our gov’t is good at nothing except taking money misusing it and giv- ing it to things no one votes for. Our Children and young people have been taught that the Gov’t is the answer and one can not possibly exist without it. The Gov’t has stepped so far outside its Constitutional mandate. It is up to us as American Citizen to redirect their focus back to the Constitution. I prefer Dangerous Freedom Over Peaceful Slavery David Paige Finance Officer/ Range Officer Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 Page 25 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 John- Alex Candela son 1st Vice 3rd Vice 2nd Vice Commander Commander Commander 916-215-0685 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 Vacant Assist. Sgt. at Arms JAG Officer Photographer 916-723-1932 916-726-9390 Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 Page 26 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY IN MEMORIAM February Robert Adams Maynard Johnson March Douglas Borges Robert Russell Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 Page 27 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY Interesting History The Girandoni Air Gun was state of the art in the early 19th century. NRA Museum Around the turn of the 19th century, it seemed as if air might give gun powder a run for its money as a propellant. The Girandoni air gun, adopted by the Austrian Army and used from 1780 to 1815, came in .46 caliber, was accurate to over 100 yards, and could fire 20 shots with- out reloading. It was smokeless, too, a major advantage in the era of black-powder combat. The stock served as an air reservoir on some models, while others had a spherical reservoir, and it had a tubular magazine alongside the barrel that allowed the shooter to tip the muzzle into the air, push a latch, and drop the next ball into the chamber. The gun had its disadvantages. It was fragile, and it took 1,500 pumps to charge the reser- voir, after which it could shoot 40 times without appreciable loss of velocity. The Austrians eventually brought wagons with air pumps into the field to help with reloading, although sol- diers would carry extra charged stocks with them into battle. Somehow, Meriwether Lewis got hold of a Girandoni gun, and he brought it with him on the Voyage of Discovery. The gun played an important part in the expedition: Often, upon meet- ing natives, Lewis and Clark would dress in their good uniforms, strike up their small fife and drum corps, and give gifts to the Indians. Lewis would then give a marksmanship demonstra- tion with the air gun, showing off its range, accuracy, and extremely rapid-fire capabilities (for it’s time). The Native Americans were always highly impressed, and, perhaps not coincidentally, disinclined to attack a group possessing one or maybe many of these rapid-fire rifles. Lewis and Clark lost only one man—to a burst appendix—on the expedition. Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 Page 28 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 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 Page 29 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY MEMBERSHIP NEWS Ron Myers Adjutant 916-723-7324 Post Membership 637 As of April 17th, we have 224 members that have renewed. The 2021 year membership numbers are as follows: Source Goal 2021 Paid % as of Post 637 274** 224* 81.75% 3-17-2021 * This include New Member’s & Transfers ** Increase Change from 260 Dues for the new year 2021 is $45.00 which covered July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021. Dues for the year 2021, still $45 Mail checks to: David Paige - American Legion Post 637, P O Box 1, Citrus Heights, CA 95611 NEXT MEETING Tuesday April 20, 2021 6:30 pm This will be an ‘On-Line’ meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88019651641?pwd=K0tEOS9Sd0dybHdaWkoxMXZlQlpBUT09 Meeting ID: 880 1965 1641 Passcode: 893692 Please join our meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone. Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 Page 30 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 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 Page 31 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 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 Page 32 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY MAY – National Military Appreciation Month 9/26 Gold Star Mom’s & Family Day 5/15 Peace Officers Memorial Day 10/13 Navy Day 5/15 Armed Forces Day 11/10 Marine Corps Birthday 5/31 Memorial Day (May 30) 11/11 Veterans Day / Tomb of the Unknown 6/6 D – Day 12/7 Pearl Harbor Remembrance 6/14 Army Birthday / Flag Day 12/13 National Guard Day 7/4 Independence Day 12/18 National Wreaths Across America 8/4 Coast Guard Day 2/3 Four Chaplains 8/7 Purple Heart Day 2/4 USO Birthday 9/11 Patriot Day 3/15 American Legion Birthday 9/17 POW Day 3/25 Medal of Honor Day 9/18 Air Force Day 3/29 National Vietnam War Veterans Day Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 Page 33 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] Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion Volume 10 Issue 4 - April 2021 Page 34 FOR GOD - FOR COUNTRY - AND COMMUNITY Welcome Home Published Monthly By Post 637 Of The American Legion