August is upon us and with it we honor all our Coast Guard members as their birthday is August 4th. August 7th is Purple Heart Day, a day when we show appreciation for all who have been awarded the Purple Heart Medal for wounds suffered in combat.
It was my great honor to be able to award the Large Chapter of the Year to the Rogue Chapter at this years National Conference in San Antonio on Thursday, July 21st, 2022. Chapter trustee & treasurer Ron Kohl accepted the award from President Paul Kingsbury and I in my capacity as Chairman of the Board. This award is the fourth in the last five years and speaks greatly about the work of all of you. The chapter had 9 members in attendance, Chapter trustees Ron Kohl, David Haines & wife Linda, Chairman Terry Haines & Fiancé Vicki Garrett, President Paul Kingsbury, Retired SEAC John Troxell, and Past Grand Knight Troy Hensley & his wife Vicky.
The association has selected the design for the next generation of Medallions for the Korean War veterans. A prototype is being manufactured and the plan is that an initial order of 500 will be placed once a sponsor is found. There are several pending options for sponsorship that will cover the estimated $5,000 start up investment. 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.
I promised a reward of $50 to a chapter member who recruited a new member during the last year. Following conference, I held a drawing and the lucky chapter member is President Paul Kingsbury. Congratulations Paul and thanks to all of the members who recruited a new member.
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
Chairman, Rogue Chapter #1260