September is a month where Patriots have a lot to ponder. Japan surrendered unconditionally on September 2, 1945 to end the fighting in WW2. September 11, 2001 is one of those days where every American knows where they were as we were viciously attacked by Terrorists in New York, Washington DC and a remote area of Pennsylvania. That started a long drawn out war against terrorism. On September 16th we remember all past and present POW & MIA’s. September 17th is the anniversary when the most significant document, our Constitution, was approved back in 1787 and we celebrate the 75th birthday of the US Air Force on September 18th.
The association has selected the design for the next generation of Medallions for the Korean War veterans. A prototype has been manufactured and we hope to have medallions available this month. Once the medallions become available, distribution will happen immediately, so be ready to let me know how many medallions you will need.
I was introduced to a new program at the conference that has a great potential to provide an opportunity for any member regardless of age or health to make a difference. Operation Gratitude provides gift boxes to troops, emergency service providers and veterans to let them know how important they are to the rest of us. Each box has notes and a letter expressing appreciation, self-care items, snacks, and other simple things that let the recipient know that you care. Do you know how to knit, sew, or make items that can bring a little joy into a person’s life? If you would like to bring some joy into the life of a veteran, let me know that you would like to help. With few veterans deployed in Harm’s Way at the present time, this is one way we can continue to support the troops. It is kind of a care package.
The biggest project that this chapter has ever taken on is Rogue Valley VeteRun. In the first 5 years of the project we have raised and given away over $60,000 to veteran charities. Each year one charity will deal with veteran suicide. This year we support Mighty Oaks Foundation which addresses the 20+ veterans that commit suicide every day. Additionally this year we support David’s Chair which recently expanded from Oregon to Texas. They provide free access to track wheelchairs so that wheelchair bound veterans can live a more normal life and go hunting, fishing, go to the beach, up to the snow and even play golf or trap shoot. Our goal this year is to raise $20,000. How can you help? Spread the word as to this project. If in southern Oregon, sign up to run the 5K or walk it. If every member of the chapter were to donate $10 or more, we would raise almost $4,000. Do you belong to an organization or work at a business that supports veterans, share this information. Full information is on our chapter website which is https://ncoarogue.org under the Veterun tab. Donations can be made with credit cards on this site or a check can be sent to PO Box 5597 Central Point, OR 97502. Please help!
If you have any ideas or suggestions, either contact headquarters or contact me at retiredveteran89@outlook.com and I can assure you that your leadership will take note.
Strength in Unity & Leadership By Example,
MCPO (SCW) Terry M. Haines, USNR Retired
Chairman, Rogue Chapter #1260