VFW CA Post 1716 - Freedom

VFW Applauds VA, National Security Budget Requests

Posted at 06:50 AM on Monday, February 8, 2010 by DD

WASHINGTON - The national commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. is applauding President Obama for submitting a fiscal year 2011 budget that strengthens defense and national security, and boosts programs for veterans, servicemembers and their families.

Thomas J. Tradewell Sr., a combat-wounded Vietnam veteran from Sussex, Wis., said the president's vision tracks with key VFW legislative goals that advocate for a strong and secure America, and for ensuring that those who serve in uniform are properly cared for by a grateful nation.

White House Seeks $125 Billion for Veterans in 2011

Posted at 04:27 PM on Monday, February 1, 2010 by DD

WASHINGTON – To expand health care to a record-number of Veterans, reduce the number of homeless Veterans and process a dramatically increased number of new disability compensation claims, the White House has announced a proposed $125 billion budget next year for the Department of Veterans Affairs.

"Our budget proposal provides the resources necessary to continue our aggressive pursuit of President Obama's two over-arching goals for Veterans," said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. "First, the requested budget will help transform VA into a 21st century organization.  And second, it will ensure that we approach Veterans' care as a lifetime initiative, from the day they take their oaths until the day they are laid to rest."

The $125 billion budget request, which has to be approved by Congress, includes $60.3 billion for discretionary spending (mostly health care) and $64.7 billion in mandatory funding (mostly for disability compensation and pensions).

"VA's 2011 budget request covers many areas but focuses on three central issues that are of critical importance to our Veterans – easier access to benefits and services, faster disability claims decisions, and ending the downward spiral that results in Veterans' homelessness," Shinseki said.

Reducing Claims Backlog

The president's budget proposal includes an increase of $460 million and more than 4,000 additional claims processors for Veterans benefits.  This is a 27 percent funding increase over the 2010 level.

The 1,014,000 claims received in 2009 were a 75 percent increase over the 579,000 received in 2000.  Shinseki said the Department expects a 30 percent increase in claims – to 1,319,000 – in 2011 from 2009 levels.

One reason for the increase is VA's expansion of the number of Agent Orange-related illnesses that automatically qualify for disability benefits.  Veterans exposed to the Agent Orange herbicides during the Vietnam War are likely to file additional claims that will have a substantial impact upon the processing system for benefits, the secretary said.

"We project significantly increased claims inventories in the near term while we make fundamental improvements to the way we process disability compensation claims," Shinseki said.

Long-term reduction of the inventory will come from additional manpower, improved business practices, plus an infusion of $145 million in the proposed budget for development of a paperless claims processing system, which plays a significant role in the transformation of VA.

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VFW Washington Weekly - January 22, 2010

Posted at 11:24 AM on Friday, January 22, 2010 by DD

In This Issue:

1. VFW Presents Legislative Goals

2. House VA Committee Hearings

3. Relief for GI Bill Payments Coming

4. Vets Employment Initiative Launched

 

1. VFW Presents Legislative Goals: The VFW presented its Top 5 legislative goals this week at a House Veterans Affairs Committee roundtable.  The issues we want Congress to highlight this year are the claims backlog, employment and training, oversight of VA health care, and military-to-veteran transition issues, to include education.  Committee members acknowledged that the VA claims backlog is among their top priorities, and they intend to hold oversight hearings on viable fixes to the critical problem.  The VFW's 2010 legislative priority goals can be viewed at http://www.vfw.org/PR/Legislative/2010PriorityGoals%20PROOF.pdf.

Click here to read more Washington Weekly

VFW Joins in Haiti Humanitarian Effort

Posted at 04:16 PM on Friday, January 15, 2010 by DD

Kansas City, MO., Jan. 15, 2010 -The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) is assisting in humanitarian efforts in Haiti by providing U.S. service members — with relatives currently located in Haiti — with the funds necessary to purchase airline tickets to the devastated island, so that they may locate, assist or make burial arrangements for relatives affected by the recent earthquake. Funds also may be used to help provide sustenance or other necessities to sustain life.

The veterans' organization donation will be used to assist U.S. service members currently on active duty, in the Reserves or in National Guard units.

VFW National Commander Tommy J. Tradewell Sr., has asked VFW and its Ladies Auxiliary members to come to the aid of victims of the recent natural disaster by individually donating what they can to the VFW National Military Services program (NMS), either online [Donate now online], text [text "VFW" to 90999 - standard text messaging rates apply], or mail directly to VFW National Military Services, 406 W. 34th Street, Kansas City, MO 64111.

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VFW CheckPoint Magazine Jan/Feb 2010

Posted at 10:07 AM on Wednesday, January 13, 2010 by DD

VFW CheckPoint Magazine Jan/Feb 2010 -

VFW Washington Weekly - January 8, 2010

Posted at 01:57 PM on Friday, January 8, 2010 by DD

In This Issue:

1. VA to Delay Increase in Prescription Copayments

2. TRICARE for Gray Area Reserve Retirees

3. Congress on Recess

 

1. VA to Delay Increase in Prescription Copayments: VA officials this week announced they are delaying an increase in veterans' out-of-pocket payments for pharmaceuticals until June 30.  The scheduled $1 increase-from $8 to $9 per 30-day supply of medicine for nonservice-connected conditions-will be reevaluated so that VA can consider how the increases are calculated.  During this period, VA will also keep $960 as the maximum annual out-of-pocket payment for pharmaceuticals for nonservice-related conditions.  The $960 cap will not apply to veterans in priority groups seven and eight.  The yearly maximum out-of-pocket payment was scheduled to increase to $1,080.  There are no copayments associated with the treatment of conditions related to military service.  The freeze is considered temporary.  Some increases may take affect this summer unless a new way of calculating co-payments is found and implemented.

Continue reading VFW Washington Weekly

Honor Guard Change of Leadership

Posted at 11:39 PM on Friday, November 6, 2009 by DD

On October 12th, Cpt Kleinsmith stepped down and transfered his leadership of the team to Jack Kelly. Jack Kelly has been a member of the Post honor guard for over ten years. With the encouragement of Cpt Kleinsmith, the acceptance of the team, having more time available, and wishing to take a more active role with the Honor Guard, Jack was appointed by the Post Cmdr as Active Captain of the Post Honor Guard effective October 12, 2009. Cpt Kleinsmith has been searching for his replacement for the past two years because his volunteer time was becoming more and more limited due to family commitments. Comrade Kleinsmith has been performing military funeral honors for veterans on a VFW Honor Guard Team since 1991. Joe Kleinsmith is a two time All State Past Commander, a Past County Council Commander, and became the Active honor guard Captain over 5 years ago when Cpt Bill Rolls chose to step down and be placed on the teams "Advisor Retired Reserve List" with other Past Honor Guard Captains. Joe Kleinsmith will remain on the teams "Retired Reserve List" as Cpt and Advisor, available to answer questions, sharing his 20 plus years of funeral honors experience and knowledge (military & VFW), and share the detailed Honor Guard SOP he established. It is because of CPT Kleinsmiths comradeship, dedication to this team that this change of Leadership, the operation of the team, and mission requests has become a smooth transition. To request the participation of the Honor Guard or information regarding funeral honors, contact Cpt. Jack Kelly 831-207-9478 and Lt. Sal Beltran 831-566-9983 e-mail: SalomeBeltran@yahoo.com. For more information about military funeral honors, please visit http://vfwwebcom.org/ca/Post1716HonorGuard/

* Post HONOR GUARD *

Posted at 01:53 AM on Monday, October 12, 2009 by DD

This VFW Honor Guard is the only veterans Honor Guard in the entire County of Santa Cruz. Members of this team have been providing honors for veterans for over fifteen years. We are members of the Department of Defense Authorized Providers Partnership Program and provide military commanders additional detail elements for veterans funerals. We are not a substitute for the legislated minimum, two-person uniformed military detail. However, we provide more funeral honor elements for all veterans, such as a firing party {3 volley gun salute}, in addition to the requirements of flag folding, flag presentation, Chaplain, and the sounding of Taps. We work closely with the military, funeral homes, Patriot Guard Riders, and families to ensure all veterans are honored. Our primary area of responsibility is Santa Cruz County. Travel outside the county is based upon availability. We do not charge for our services. Donations to our VFW Honor Guard are appreciated and tax deductable. Please call on us to honor those who served. " What we do, Comes from the Heart." The Honor Guard is also available to Present and Post Colors at community functions and events. Contact: CPT Jack Kelly @ 831-207-9478 or 831-724-3026 or 2LT Salome Beltran (831) 566-9983 E-mail: SalomeBeltran@yahoo.com Your invited to visit the Honor Guards Blog. Click on our link on the left under Post Links or go to: http://vfwwebcom.org/ca/Post1716HonorGuard/.

New face on Canteen

Posted at 10:20 AM on Friday, October 2, 2009 by DD

Last month Art and Trella Bailey, our long time friends and managers of the canteen and kitchen have stepped down for health reasons. The Canteen now has a new face and new Club Manager - Bob Howell. You will not recognize the interior of the Canteen now. Come check it out!

- Post Honor Guard -

Posted at 09:33 PM on Wednesday, February 11, 2009 by DD

The Honor Guard welcomes and salutes it newest member, Andy Telles. Andy recently joined our Post and is also retired military. Your Honor Guard is always looking for a few dedicated men and women, including Auxiliary who would like to join its ranks. Having the ability or strength to handle or carry a rifle is not necessary. We have positions and a need for flag bearers, flag folders, and riflemen, among other positions. We do more than just funerals and memorial services. One does not have to be retired to participate and be a member of the team, or have a vehicle. We have functions various days of the week including weekends, and receive requests with least a 48 hour notice. Are You Up To The Challenge? If your interested or need the services, contact Capt.Jack Kelly @ 831-207-9478, Lt Sal Beltran @ 831-566-9983 - or - SalomeBeltran@yahoo.com or visit http://vfwwebcom.org/ca/Post1716HonorGuard/

CHAPLAINs CORNER

Posted at 09:08 PM on Wednesday, February 11, 2009 by DD

Another year has gone by. Let us all take the time to remember and give thanks. Unto thee, O God, do we give thanks. Psalm 75:1. Keep active. Give us a call and let us know how you are doing. Our prayers and get well wishes for a speedy recovery to all who are under the weather. Our hearts and prayers go to all whom have lost friends and loved ones. We draped our charter and gave a final salute to Amandus (Joe) Roediger, Gordon Thomas, and Pete Valenzuela. If you know of any Comrade, Sister or family members sick, ill or in distress, please contact your Chaplain. Please try to remember, We can not send cards, prayers and get well wishes if we do not know who is sick, ill or in distress. 'Lord, hold our troops in your loving hands. Protect them as they protect us Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us in our time of need. Amen. Wishing all of you a Happy Valentines Day and a Happy Easter. God Bless You & Our Troops, Billie Hand, Aux Chaplain (831) 724-6832 joe Kleinsmith, Chaplain (831) 588-5525 jkleinsmith@yahoo.com

Election of Post Officers

Posted at 09:06 PM on Wednesday, February 11, 2009 by DD

Per Sec 217 of VFW Manual of Procedure, our 1st nominations of post officers will be held at our regular March meeting on the 4th. Any nominee has the opportunity to decline nomination for the office to which he has been nominated. A member making a nomination of an absentee for any office shall have presented to the Adjutant, in writing, the consent of the member being nominated prior to the opening of nominations. Members are authorized to nominate themselves for office in person or in writing. Your Post CAN NOT survive without your participation. New members are asked to get their feet wet and take an active part in the Post as an elected officer. Experience is NOT required. Your Past Commanders will provide assistance and guidance to all officers, elected and appointed. 2nd nominations and election of Post Officers and Delegates will be held at our regular April meeting.

Election of Auxiliary Officers:

Posted at 09:04 PM on Wednesday, February 11, 2009 by DD

Per Article VIII and Sec. 801-804A of Auxiliary By-Laws, nominations and election of Auxiliary officers will be held at our April 1st meeting. Members can be nominated for more than one position. Any nominee has the opportunity to decline nomination for the office to which he has been nominated. A member making a nomination of an absentee for any office shall have presented to the Secretary, in writing, the consent of the member being nominated prior to the opening of nominations. Members are authorized to nominate themselves for office in person or in writing. Nominations do not require a second as in a motion. President Shirley has stated she would like to serve an additional year as your Commander. Your Auxiliary cannot survive without your participation as officers and chairmen. New members are asked to take an active part in the Auxiliary as an elected officer. To see the Duties and Obligations of Officers and Chairmen as identified in our By-Laws beginning @ Article VIII Sec 810 Ð please contact Secretary Alice Carreiro.

HBO's "Taking Chance"

Posted at 07:52 PM on Tuesday, February 10, 2009 by DD

Television network HBO will be premiering a new made-for-television movie called "Taking Chance" on Saturday, February 21st. The movie is an adaptation of the true account written by Lieutenant Colonel Michael Strobl, USMC (played by actor Kevin Bacon) of his journey to escort home 19-year-old Lance Corporal Chance Phelps, a young Marine who had been killed by hostile fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. Of particular interest to VFW members is the depiction of the local VFW Post in Wyoming and it's members.

Post Membership and Recruiting

Posted at 08:14 PM on Saturday, February 7, 2009 by DD

Welcome to the friendliest post in California. We are the home of the best VFW Post, Ladies Auxiliary and Post Honor Guard on the central coast. We Support Our Troops - Past, Present & Future. We are known for our activity in the community and VFW program participation. We are the 1st post in California to have our blog. Our membership includes veterans from World War II to the Global War on Terrorism being fought today. Our membership now exceeds 230 with over 210 being life members. If you are a veteran or currently on active duty in the Armed Forces and would like to know more about this VFW and what we can offer you and your family, please contact us. We are always recruiting new members and if you have what it takes to belong to the VFW, you are welcome. Your courage and sacrifice made a difference in preserving and defending world peace. We have a newsletter, the Scuttlebutt, that keeps Post and Auxiliary members informed of what is planned and taking place. This weblog and our newsletter high-lights our commitment to keep every member as informed as possible through accurate, timely and effective communications. Best of all, you can receive your newsletter by e-mail as well. To join VFW Post 1716 eligible veterans pay a membership dues of $30. If you are an Iraqi or Afghanistan veteran, your first year annual membership may be FREE as appreciation from the members of this post. Annual dues are $30. Recruits and members can also purchase a lifetime membership based on their age as of Dec. 31st. If your already a member of the VFW and would like to transfer to our Post, their is no fee. To have one of our members contact you with a membership form, just leave a comment or e-mail: jkleinsmith@yahoo.com.

VFW Scout of the Year Scholarship Program

Posted at 03:57 PM on Thursday, February 5, 2009 by DD

APPLICATION DEADLINES: Submit entry to VFW Post 1716, P.O. Box 716, Freedom CA 95019 NLT March 1, 2009 - Posts submit local winner to VFW Department: April 1, 2009 - Department nominees to VFW National: May 1, 2009. The VFW Scout of the Year Scholarship program provides a $5,000 award to an outstanding scout who is the recipient of a Boy Scout Eagle Award, a Venture Scouting Silver Award or a Sea Scout Quartermaster Award. ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS: (1) Be a registered, active member of a Boy Scout Troop, Venturing Crew, or a Sea Scout Ship; (2) Has received the Eagle Scout Award, Venture Silver Award or Sea Scout Quartermaster Award; (3) Has demonstrated practical citizenship in school, scouting and the community; (4) Has reached his/her 15th birthday and is enrolled in high school at the time of selection; and (5) Has submitted his/her completed entry by March 1, 2009, to a VFW Post in his/her community. - Note: All applicants still in high school who reach their 18th birthday during the nomination year remain eligible if otherwise qualified. A scout only can enter through ONE VFW Post. To enter, download and complete the VFW Scouting Scholarship Application form http://www.vfw.org/resources/pdf/scoutscholarshipentryform.pdf and submit to VFW post 1716 by March 1, 2009. APPLICATION is in four Sections: (A) High School Participation Record, (B) Entire Scouting Record, (C) Community Service Record, (D) Letters of Recommendation. - For more information on the scouting award, visit: http://www.vfw.org/index.cfm?fa=cmty.leveld&did=4371

VFW National's "Do not Mail List"

Posted at 09:50 AM on Wednesday, February 4, 2009 by DD

I suppose there are millions of members that enjoy the attention and look forward to receiving VFW Calendars, labels and other mail from the VFW asking them for donations. As well, I expect there may be three or four members out there that feel they are getting nickled and dimed between National and Department regularly that they revolt in not donating to the Post and consider not renewing their annual memberships. Members who do not want to receive advertisements and solicitations [a.k.a. Junk mail] from VFW National can be placed on a Do not Mail List upon their request. However, once VFW National starts processing a solicitation, members may receive these for approximately two months. After that, they should receive nothing but the magazine and dues notices from the VFW. So it your willing to save a tree, have more space in your mail box and recycle bin, and save VFW National the expense of envelopes, postage and handling, and are willing to sacrifice not receiving their stuff, get yourself on the list. Requests should be forwarded to VFW National, Attention: Development Department, Headquarters, 406 West 34th Street, Suite 718, Kansas City, MO 64111, or e-mail: Ben Vargas at: BVargas@vfw.org Remember to include your Post number and VFW membership number. Department uses the mailing address provided from National, so if your off Nationals list, you should be off Departments mailing list as well.

Proper Disposal of the American Flag

Posted at 04:23 PM on Monday, January 19, 2009 by DD

V.F.W. Post 1716 can assist with the proper disposal of an American Flag if you should own one. There are very specific rules and regulations about displaying and disposing of the American Flag. Our flag is a symbol of freedom and should always be treated with respect, great care and reverence. If a flag has become tattered, worn or faded, it should be disposed of properly rather than just tossed out with the trash. VFW Post 1716 will then properly dispose of the flag according to regulations as prescribed by the United States Flag Code. Those who do not reside near the VFW are asked to contact their local Boy Scout Council to find a troop that accepts flags for disposal. We salute you for being a proud American and ask that you continue to respect our symbol of freedom, the flag of the United States of America. The basics for proper flag disposal can be found at: http://www.vfw.org/index.cfm?fa=cmty.leveld&did=2477 There is no one correct ceremony. There are multiple fine procedures to choose from by googling flag retirement ceremony. Included are: http://scoutingbear.com/usa/flagcer8.htm http://members.aol.com/StanDCmr/flagret.html

HALL RENTALS

Posted at 09:44 AM on Wednesday, January 7, 2009 by DD

Our spacious hall is available for Wedding Receptions, Showers, Birthdays, Anniversary's, Class Reunions and Club Meetings. We would be happy to provide catering for Club Meetings and banquets. Our spacious hall is handicap accessable, has a stage, PA System, tables, chairs, kitchen facilities and full bar. In addition we have a large parking lot with exterior lighting. Our facility is available to the Public and members. Non-Members: Full Hall Rentals are $600.00. Baby Showers and business meetings are $40 per hour (except Saturday). Weekday luncheons are $8 - $12 per plate. Post & Aux Members: (w/over 1 year membership) Full Hall Rental is $200.00 one Sat or Sun per year. For additional information regarding prices, deposits, permits, kitchen privileges, bar, security, reservations, etc. contact our Club Mgr Bob Howell @ 722-5228. Hall Rental price soon to increases to $800 - so book now!.

Community Food Distribution Every Friday Afternoon

Posted at 09:46 AM on Friday, January 2, 2009 by DD

Every Friday Post volunteers transport bread, fruit and vegetables from California Grey Bears in Santa Cruz to the VFW for distribution to our seniors and those in need. The food is located in the outdoor barbecue area. Entry for free food opens between 5:00 and 5:15 pm. Plastic bags are available. The selection of food available each week is unknown until our volunteers Past Cmdr JD and Chaplain Joe pick it up from Grey Bears Friday mornings. This VFW community food distribution project was started in 1992 by life member Bill Kleinsmith and continues on today.

CHILDRENS CHRISTMAS PARTY

Posted at 08:57 PM on Monday, December 29, 2008 by DD

Chaplain Kleinsmith delivered a beautiful 10 foot flocked tree ($210.00 value) donated by his cousins Paul & Eddie Battaglia of Battaglia Christmas Tree Farms in San Martin. The Auxiliary ladies and friends helped decorate the tree with garland and lights. Our annual ChildrenÕs Christmas party held December 20th was a huge success. Hot dogs, chips, punch, and cup cakes were served. Santa arrived and distributed a gift and a bag of goodies to all from his bag next to our decorated tree. Clarence the clown entertained everyone with magic. Fifty-three children attended this family event. Many thanks to all who brought deserts and all our volunteers. Trella Bailey was in charge of purchasing and wrapping the gifts for all the children, and this was a big job. Food was prepared by Gloria and Janice, Our elves Diane Morgan and Jenny Walker did a great job assisting Santa (Dickie Cecil). The Post donated $200 toward the party. Johnny Walker was our photographer. Thanks and appreciation goes out to everyone who contributed to make this day extra special.

HOLIDAY FOOD BASKETS

Posted at 09:03 PM on Sunday, December 28, 2008 by DD

We helped make both Thanksgiving and Christmas a little merrier for 11 veteran families and 30 veterans. All received food boxes and three received complete dinners. Everyone showed much appreciation. We thank all members who donated so many food items and those who gave monetary donations for our AuxiliaryÕs annual project. The Auxiliary purchased perishable items to round out the baskets Ð hams, eggs, margarine, fresh fruit, etc. Many hours were spent purchasing, sorting and making up the food boxes to be delivered. And Thanks go out to Alice Carreiro for chairing this project.

Wreaths Across America Wrapup

Posted at 05:33 AM on Monday, December 15, 2008 by DD

BUDDY POPPIES: PANHANDLING? SAY IT AIN'T SO!

Posted at 05:45 PM on Sunday, November 30, 2008 by DD

(via Dept of Wisconsin)

CHILDRENS CHRISTMAS PARTY

Posted at 01:37 PM on Saturday, November 29, 2008 by DD

Santa Claus asks that you do not forget to register your children, grand and great-grand children before December 1st for our annual Childrens Christmas Party being held Saturday, Dec 20th. Santa will be posting an elves volunteer list for Extra Helpers in the Canteen. When you prepare Christmas Cards, remember to send some to our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, and send them early. This party is put on by our Ladies Auxiliary. Your Post donated $200 and members donated another $200.00 toward the event. A real 10 foot Christmas tree valued over $200 was donated by the Battaglia Christmas Tree Ranch located off Hwy 101 and San Martin exit.

2008-09 VFW Program Guide available on-line

Posted at 03:26 PM on Sunday, November 23, 2008 by DD

All elected and appointed officers including all committee chairmen, should review the 2008-09 VFW Program Guide. It answers a lot of questions and covers our core programs, Youth and Teacher Awards, Special Projects, and Suggested Activities. Our Commander has a hard copy version and an E-version (2 Parts) can be seen at: http://www.vfw9401.org/Program_Guide_Part_1.pdf http://www.vfw9401.org/Program_Guide_Part_2.pdf

Military Mail Must Include Name; Mail to 'Any Servicemember' Won't Be Processed

Posted at 11:23 AM on Thursday, November 13, 2008 by DD

WASHINGTON, Nov. 13, 2008--Walter Reed Army Medical Center officials want to remind those individuals who want to show their appreciation through mail to include packages, letters, and holiday cards addressed to 'Any Wounded Soldier' or 'A Recovering American Soldier' that Walter Reed cannot accept these packages in support of the decision by then Deputy Undersecretary of Defense for Transportation Policy in 2001. This decision was made to ensure the safety and well being of patients and staff at medical centers throughout the Department of Defense.

In addition, the U.S. Postal Service is no longer accepting "Any Service Member" or "A Recovering American Soldier" letters or packages. Mail to "Any Service Member" that is deposited into a collection box will not be delivered.

If you would like to send a letter to military personnel visit a VFW post in your area for assistance. Find a VFW post in your area

The Red Cross and Pitney Bowes also have a program supported by DoD to accept cards and distribute them to servicemembers, veterans, and their families. Click here to learn more.

Walter Reed Army Medical Center will continue to receive process and deliver all mail that is addressed to a specific individual.

Veterans Day 2008

Posted at 07:21 PM on Wednesday, October 22, 2008 by DD

This day will begin at 6:30 a.m. with our volunteers setting out our Ave of Flags along both sides of Freedom Blvd, weather permitting. We expect the sun the break through allowing Adjutant Walker and fellow comrades to ride the antique red fire engine in the Veterans Day March down Main Street to the Veterans Memorial Building for the Veterans Day Program. The Honor Guard will begin at 8:00 a.m. performing numerous flag ceremonies throughout the city with rifle volleys and bugle calls and will be present to participate in the Veterans Day program at the Watsonville Veterans Memorial Building that starts at 11:00 a.m. Our ladies will be preparing a delicious breakfast for our Ave of Flag volunteers and a hearty lunch of hot roast beef for all our guests and members returning from the parade and program at the Vets Memorial building. Our Veterans Day Celebration only happens with the coordination and support of our Ladies Auxiliary, American Legion Post 121 and Auxiliary, Watsonville Police Department, City leaders, Parks and Recreation Dept, and lots of supporters and volunteers. For more information regarding the Avenue of Flag, Parade and Program, contact Commander Ambriz or Adjutant John Walker. * For the schedule of the Honor Guard, visit their blog. [Link on the left side].

- Fort Ord Veterans Cemetery UPDATES -

Posted at 07:03 PM on Wednesday, October 22, 2008 by DD

Post 1716 Honor Guard Cpt Joe Kleinsmith represents our Post in attending Monterey County Veteran Cemetery Citizens Advisory Committee and other meetings regarding the establishment of our Central Coast Veterans Cemetery at Fort Ord. For Update information "Click" on the Honor Guards link located on the left or go to: http://vfwwebcom.org/ca/Post1716HonorGuard/

VFW Dept of California BLOOD ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Posted at 01:59 PM on Monday, September 29, 2008 by DD

The Dept CA VFW will reimburse the cost for up to ten (10) units of blood per year if the cost had to be paid by the member after all insurance coverage has been exhausted for all our members in good standing and their immediate family residing with them. CAVFW FORM-1b form must be completed in its entirety and have the invoice or receipt attached. This is another benefit for being a member of the VFW.

VFW Emblem & Supply Catalog - 10% Life Member Discount.

Posted at 01:55 PM on Monday, September 29, 2008 by DD

Are you planning to make some purchases like a New Podium Edition, VFW Cap or clothing? To receive this discount, you must either call your order in using our toll free number, 1-800-821-2606, or you can fax the order at 1-816-968-1196. You may also mail it to them. Please include your Life Member number and date.

RECOGNITION OF EAGLE SCOUTS

Posted at 01:53 PM on Monday, September 29, 2008 by DD

Our Post and Honor Guard would like to recognize every youths accomplishment who receives Eagle Scout rank with an Eagle Scout Certificate that is embossed with the Eagle Merit Badge and the boys name and troop number in gold with a blue velour folder. Troops an Santa Cruz County and members living outside the county with relatives attaining Eagle are asked to contact Honor Guard Cpt Joe Kleinsmith @ 831-588-5525 jkleinsmith@yahoo.com at least six weeks before the boys Court of Honor.

HOLIDAY FOOD BASKETS !

Posted at 01:50 PM on Monday, September 29, 2008 by DD

It is time to clean out your kitchen and pantry cabinets. Again this year we will be distributing Thanksgiving and Christmas Boxes and Baskets to any member or veterans family who is in need. Last November we helped 8 veterans and 14 veterans and their families celebrate a Happy Thanksgiving. We need more help and would appreciate any canned goods (no dented or rusted cans please), non-perishable items, etc., that you would care to give. Please leave your donations with Trella or in the decorated barrel at the entry hall. Bring them every Friday when you come to dinner. Cash donations are also greatly appreciated and will be used for turkey, hams and other food purchases. All donations are tax deductible. If you are unable to bring a donation in, call the club to coordinate a pick-up. We appreciate your support in helping members, veterans and veterans families in need. God Bless. Alice and Jenny, Chairmen (831) 722-5228.

Auxiliary Membership

Posted at 01:49 PM on Monday, September 29, 2008 by DD

We are proud of our auxiliary. There are a total of ten Ladies Auxiliaries in our district. Besides being the oldest in District 12, we are the only VFW Ladies Auxiliary in all of Santa Cruz County. We have 77 Life and 39 annual members. We ask our Annual members to be Early Birds and renew their memberships promptly, and that our life members pay their $5 Cancer Insurance dues.

Post Membership

Posted at 01:47 PM on Monday, September 29, 2008 by DD

The VFW is doing everything possible to safeguard the veteran benefits and entitlements you earned!. It is very easy - and inexpensive- to take care of your VFW membership renewal for the coming year. We have 29 members who still need to renew their annual memberships. So I urge you to do it right now while your think of it. Be an Early Bird. We know times are tough. If your in financial distress and unable to renew your dues at this time, contact Cmdr Dave or Asst Quartermaster Walker today! They will help and it is kept confidential. Those who fail to renew their membership will have their VFW benefits, Magazine, Scuttlebutt, Insurance, and VFW privileges interrupted or stopped. A new VFW year has begun and we must continue to grow in size. Last year our membership was 246. We have 211 life members. Sadly we lost four members already this year; therefore we must do our best to invite and recruit new members. Lets welcome our newest members; Juan Majan, Armondo Rodriguez, James Snader, Marvin Rubin, Daniel Tryon, Richard Galloway and Ken Cakebread. Many are transfers from 7th Ave VFW Post 7263. Our VFW Post is not an old mans club or a bar, it is an organization of all ages. Recruit a new member. Remember, Freedom VFW Post believes in veterans helping veterans and their families.

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