Issue 50-2 May 201850 Continuous Years of 100% Membership

New AZ VFW Headquarters in Tempe

6423 S. Ash Ave, Tempe, AZ 85283

We are excited to announce that our head-quarters has moved to a new location in Tempe. We spent the previous thirty eight years in Scotts-dale on Thomas Rd. Our old office served us well, but space was limited to the point that when we had more than 8 people for a meeting, sitting on someone's lap was not an option. Great memories will be shared by all, but we couldn't be more en-thusiastic about our new building. The new HQS building is actually located

on the SE corner of Guadalupe Rd. & S. Ash just East of Kyrene. Below are pictures that do not do the place justice. It is a 5000+ square ft. well built single story block structure with parking for 20 (12 covered). We're still working on getting settled in, unpacking boxes and trying to figure out what we are going to do with all of the extra space. If you're in the area, feel free to stop in and say hi at any-time! We'll be hosting a grand opening BBQ for

all members sometime after this summer's heat passes. Thanks for everyone's vote of support to purchase the "HQS on Ash", without it we would still be sitting on our Chaplain's lap at meetings. Also, we want to give a special shout out to our relator, Scott Wiley who did a phenomenal job ne-gotiating the deal and making sure the paperwork was filed correctly. The new HQS address is 6423 S. Ash Ave, Tempe, AZ 85283

ARIZONA VFW NEWS PAGE 2Issue 50-2 May 2018

National Councilman - Mike Ferguson 3632 TempeCommander - Ken Marshall 8053 Sun LakesSr. Vice Commander - Gene Wood 12043 MaricopaJr. Vice Commander - Tom Judd 9907 Show LowQM/Adjutant - Ski Kuczynski 3632 Tempe Judge Advocate - Jeffery Eiler 1433 GlendaleSurgeon - Larry Williams 3713 CoolidgeAsst. QM/Adjutant - Ray Thomas 3632 Tempe Chaplain - Ralph Teagardin 5990 Marana Service Officer - Jim Katzenberger 10695 Sun City West

#1 Jean Braa #2 Pam Van Winkle #3 Lois Moore #4 Weezie Burrell #5 Donna Ventola

#6 Anna Mae Stafford #7 Elizabeth Frost #8 Johnette DeBoard #10 Kim Minor

Arizona VFW & Auxiliary State Officers 2015-16

Veterans of Foreign Wars Arizona (issn 0744-9887) is published two times a year in November, and April. An official publication of the Department of Arizona Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States. Office located at 6423 S. Ash Ave., Tempe, AZ 85283. Postmaster send change of address to Veterans of Foreign Wars News, 6423 S. Ash Ave., Tempe, AZ 85283 Third-class postage paid at Tempe, AZ and additional mailing offices. Subscription rate is $1.00 per year as part of annual dues. All others $5.00 per year. All news stories, photographs and any material intended for publication should be sent to: L. “Ski” Kuczynski, 6423 S. Ash Ave., Tempe, AZ 85283 or E-Mail to: azvfw3@gmail.com

Auxiliary District Presidents

Auxiliary OfficersNational Council Member #15 - Kim Sloan 10188 TucsonPresident - Reba Dermody 9972 Sierra Vista Sr. Vice Pres. - Kim Harney 9972 Sierra VistaJr. Vice President - Shelia Lee-Eiler 1433 GlendaleSecretary/Treasurer - Kim Sloan 10188 Tucson Chaplain - Melody Judd 9907 Show LowConductress - Marilyn Russell 2190 ChlorideGuard - Janae Kemery 12043 MaricopaChief of Staff - Chrissy Harlan 10188 Tucson Patriotic Instructor - Lori Schaeffler 5990 Marana

District Commanders #1 Robert Braa 769 Quartzsite#2 Alan Tobish 7400 Cottonwood #3 Rickey Mindt 3715 Phoenix #4 Darin Combs 9400 Sunnyslope #5 Bill Schaeffler 5990 Marana #6 Mario Villegas 1704 Globe #7 Shorty Larson 9972 Sierra Vista #8 Joan McDermott 9401 Lake Havasu #10 Dennis Sommerfield 12043 Maricopa

State CommanderKen Marshall, Post 8053 Sun Lakes

Well, here it is, March 14, 2018 and I’m writing my final article as Com-mander, Department of Arizona. I believe we have made some advancements in the state, and I hope you agree. With the new HQ

building, we should be able to actually begin having statewide schools of instruction. We have room to grow, and we have made parts of the new building available to our Auxil-iary if they would like to make use of it. With any kind of luck, we’ll make a big dent in the purchase price with the sale of the old build-ing, and the sale of the former Post 1710 building. It’s a shame when your State Of-ficers find it necessary to revoke a charter, however, some of our posts in the past, and quite frankly, currently have forgotten why

they are chartered in the first place. Serving Veterans is our and your primary function. The canteen is in place in some posts to sup-port that goal, not replace it. Something we would all do well to remember! I’m still not certain where we’re go-ing to end up with membership, however, I do want to thank all of you for your efforts in this regard. I’m still hopeful that we can make our 51st year at 100% or more members. I do know that at this point we’re still 2,500 members short of our goal. At this point I’d like to especially thank District Seven Com-mander Shorty Larson for his outstanding efforts in getting the Dist. To 100%. It’s no easy task, but a worthwhile goal. In closing, I look forward to seeing you all at the State Convention in June. It’s been a good ride and it’s all because you have made it that way. God Bless you all and God continue to bless the United States of Amer-ica! Ken Marshall, AZ State Commander

State Auxiliary PresidentReba Dermody, Post 9972 Sierra Vista I want to send my warm-

est wishes and a great big THANK YOU, to the VFW Department of Ari-zona and it’s Auxiliary. It is getting to the end of this year and it will be Department Convention in just a few short months. It has

been a whirlwind of activity on both sides. I have gotten to represent Arizona in many ways this year.First it was out of state trips the National Convention in New Orleans. Then it was Cel-ebrating Americans Freedom Event (CAFE) at York Town Virginia. Western Conference in Sunny San Diego. Mid-Year in Music City Nashville, Tennessee. The best out of state trip was the VOD and Legislative Confer-ence in our Nation’s Capital, Washington DC. Our VOD State winner Annabel Peltzer, from Laveen, Ariz., received 11th place, and was

awarded the $3,000 Joseph and Irene Han-sen Memorial Scholarship. It was an honor to be present her with Department Commander Ken Marshall and watch her win that scholar-ship. There were many trips within the state of Arizona. I have been to many places within the state that I have never been to before. It is always a pleasure and joy to see many of the members who don’t really go to Department functions. Our National Auxiliary President Dee Guillory visited us during our Winter Confer-ence and she loved the weather here. She said she “thawed out” from her home state of Vir-ginia. She would love to come back and see more of our beautiful state. Again, I want to say thank you and hope you have wonderful District Conven-tions and you can come to Department Con-vention. I will see you again. I promise.Reba Dermody, VFW Auxiliary Department President

Richard L. DeNoyer was elected Commander-in-Chief of the Veterans of Foreign Wars on September 1, 2011, at the VFW’s 112th National Convention, held in San Antonio, Texas. He served in the U. S. Marine Corps from 1960-1982, including a tour in Vietnam, July 1966-July 1967, attached to Ammunition Co., Force Logistics Support Group “A,” 3rd Marine Division.His decorations include the Combat Action Ribbon, Vietnam Campaign Ribbon, Vietnam Ser-vice Medal, and Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm. During his Marine Corps career he received a bachelor’s degree from Bridgewater State University in Bridgewater, Mass. Rich joined the VFW in 1981 at Post 1012 in Med-ford, Mass., where he maintains his Life membership.He has served in elected and appointed positions at the Post, District and Department (state) levels culminating with his

election as Department Commander in 2000-2001. He also has served on numerous national committees and as chair-man of the Eastern States Conference. After his military retirement, Rich served as a national service officer for the American Veterans of World War II. In 1988, he began working for Paralyzed Veterans of America as a national service officer, senior benefit advocate and na-tional field director, as well as supervising the Boston office and nine offices in the Northeast. Rich is a member of the American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, Marine Corps Association, Marine Corps Mustang Association, Marine Corps League, U.S. Marine Corps Drill Instructors Association, and Military Officers As-sociation of America. He and his wife Theresa have two children and six grandchildren; they make their home in Middleton, Mass.

Richard L. DeNoyer PCC Will Be Our National Representative At The State Convention

ARIZONA VFW NEWS PAGE 3Issue 50-2 May 2018

State Jr. Vice Commander Tom Judd, Post 9907 Show Low

vfwaz.comEverything at your fingertips

State Sr. Vice CommanderGene Wood, Post 12043 Maricopa

State SurgeonLarry Williams, Post 3713 Coolidge

I would like to thank you all for giving me the op-portunity to serve you by voting for me to the position of State Surgeon for

the year 2017-18. It has been a won-derful year and I have a lot of great memories of all the Comrades and posts that I've visited this year. I'm looking forward to serving you as the State Judge Advocate in the upcom-ing year 2018-19 and representing the State of Arizona and the Com-rades of this wonderful State. As we are getting to the end

of the year it is becoming time for the election of Officer's throughout the State. Hopefully you have picked out the Officer's you want to help guide your Posts, Districts and State for the incoming year. I know there has been some minor stuff with reports and pro-grams but now is the time to work on membership and help make it this the 51st year of 100% in the state. So let's all work together both post and auxiliary to make this one of the best years we have had in a long time. So in ending I would like to say,"Thank You All"Larry Williams, State Surgeon

WHO WE ARE The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States is a nonprofit vet-eran’s service or-ganization com-prised of eligible

veterans and military service mem-bers from the active, guard and re-serve forces. We trace our roots back to 1899 when veterans of the Spanish-American War (1898) and the Phil-ippine Insurrection (1899-1902) founded local organizations to se-cure rights and benefits for their ser-vice. Many arrived home wounded or sick. There was no medical care or veterans' pension for them, and they were left to care for themselves. In their misery, some of these veterans banded together and formed organizations that would eventually band together and be-come known as the Veterans of For-eign Wars of the United States. After chapters were formed in Ohio, Colo-rado and Pennsylvania, the move-ment quickly gained momentum. Today, membership stands at nearly 1.7 million members of the VFW and it’s Auxiliary. Today we have the same Mission to take care of our veter-ans, families, and active duty service members and one way we do this is by going before congress to let them know what we need to do our job. When our Commander and Chiefs goes before congress they say this

is how many members we have, this is how many hours of community service we do and this is how much money we donate. That gets the at-tention of congress and they get that information from the reports from our posts so if we aren’t turning in reports of what we do as a post we are not doing our job to help our Na-tional VFW do their job.We are miss-ing a lot of reports this year let’s get them done with what you doand not just turn in blank ones. Membership is also very im-portant not only for going before congress but also for the survival of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. We do a good job of recruiting but not a very good job of retaining our members. This year we are going for 51 years of 100% or better in membership and this is not for Ken but for the VFW Department of Arizona, this means you get the credit for 51 years. We have lost 270 Life Members this year and a Life Membership is very important and I would like to see all of our annual members become Life Members for them and for our posts. Not just for the numbers but get them involved with the work we do, it’s better for all. Keep up the good work you do but remember this year is not over yet we still have a lot of work to do and I ask for your vote and sup-port as State Sr. vice Commander for 2018-2019.State Jr. Vice Commander,VFW Department of ArizonaTom Judd

Comrades, Sisters & Brothers, Can you be-lieve how fast the year is going? This is the last paper for the VFW year. By the time

this publication is released most of the Posts and Districts will have elected the Officers and Appointed positions for next year. The Depart-ment Appointments will be identi-fied. I want to personally thank all the elected and appointed Comrades that have stepped up to accept a po-sition for the 2018-2019 VFW year. I would also like to remind those who have been elected, those who voted for you will expect you to fulfill your obligation. In turn I remind those who voted, you made your choice, it is now your obligation to support your Officers. I look forward to meet-ing with each one of you at Conven-tion. Let’s all remember the mis-sion of the Veterans of Foreign Wars is assistance for claims and benefits,

advocacy for legislative priorities, and community service like Youth programs, education and Troop sup-port. Commanders and Chairmen, encourage all your members and family members to sign up for VFW Action Corps Weekly. This publica-tion is provided to keep up informed on items that affect all of us. As always Membership and Retention will be a priority. With-out these essential components our organization will cease to exist. Ari-zona has been 100% for 50 years. Together we are working towards hopefully 51 years. I should say at least 52 years and beyond! Let’s all work together Comrades, Sisters and Brothers. Familiarize yourself with each other’s programs see where we can help each other. Communicate with each other. This will make all our programs more successful.Thanks for all your support and re-member,Communication! Key to Suc-cessful ServiceGene Wood,State Sr. Vice Commander

State Judge Advocate Jeffery Eiler 1433 Glendale

So as the year comes to a close, I would like to remind all of the Post and Dis-trict Command-ers Elections are coming!! Per

section 216 and 416, ALLElected or appointed officers shall have on file with the appropriate Adjutant proof of eligibility prior to installation. Should the member fail to submit the required proof of eligibility with-in 30 days of installation, any right to hold the elected or appointed office shall be forfeited, the office declared vacant and the eligibility of such offi-cer shall be questioned in accordance with the provisions of Section 108 of the National By-Laws.Comrades the above information is a change made at the last National Convention. Please make sure we do

not drop the ball on this. District Commanders, I would like to remind all of you of the first paragraph in Section 403 in the Manual of Procedure. Under regular meetings, “At least one (1) regular meeting Shall be held by the district each year for the purpose of conduct-ing schools of instruction for the post officers.” I would suggest this be done at your first meeting and would also suggest the topics be duties and responsibilities of the Post Officers and then maybe a second school for the required reports and what in-formation is needed on each. Please keep in mind, you have a lot of senior members who are very willing to as-sist in this type of training if they are asked.With Honor,Jeffrey Eiler STS1/SS USN Ret.AZ VFW Dept. Judge Advocate

ARIZONA VFW NEWS PAGE 4Issue 50-2 May 2018

National VFW Legislation Jim Ellars 5990 Marana For two days at the begin-ning of March, a large delegation of VFW Department of Arizona members visited each of the con-gressional offices of our state's House and Senate representatives in Washington DC. Their purpose

was to be a strong and knowledgeable voice for all our members, and to speak clearly in order to help Congress to pass legislation pertaining to the issues that affect each and every military person, veteran, and their families. While no issue was off the table, special attention was given to improving

community health care, particularly the Choice Program, the disastrous consequences of seques-tration and continuing resolutions, homelessness and suicide intervention needs among some vet-erans, and the inadequacies of too many of our governments existing entitlement programs that are negatively affecting the growing number of fe-male veterans. The delegation provided each represen-tative and/or staff member with a written list of detailed concerns, as well as viable solutions ad-dressing those concerns, sheets of supporting data, and an overall view of what are considered

to be important priorities goals of all veterans. More importantly, each delegate also had one-on-one face time with all our representatives and/or staff that is necessary to successfully maneu-ver through the complex maze of procedures and language that legislators utilize to pass or defeat the legislation that we seek. Please do YOUR part by signing up for the VFW Action Corps Weekly Bulletin at VFW.org and learn what Congress is doing. We must endeavor to make a smarter dif-ference!Jim Ellars, VFW, Dept. of ArizonaNat'l Legislative Officer

Delegation members were: Jim Ellars, Ken Marshall, Gene Woods, Mike Ferguson, Gena Ferguson, Reba Dermody, Tim Borland, Glenn Hohman, Rexana Torres

Service Office Opens in Tempe at 6423 S. Ash Ave, Tempe, AZ 85283 As the largest organization of combat vet-erans, we understand the frustrations that can arise when filing a claim with the Department of Veterans Affairs. The claims process can be con-fusing and one that service members and veter-ans shouldn't try to navigate alone. That's why the AZ VFW established an office in Tempe to help all veterans, service members and their families. VFW Service Officers are with America's veterans every step of the way once they're ready to file a claim. This is a service the VFW is proud to offer--free of charge--to anyone seeking assistance with the claims process.

At this time we only have one Service Of-ficer servicing the Tempe location every Tuesday from 10:00am to 2:00pm. We are looking for vol-unteers to serve as a Service Officer at the Tempe location so that we will have the office staffed 5 days a week. If you are interested in volunteering or wish to file a claim, please call 480-941-5258 (Mon-Fri 8 to 3pm) for an appointment. We have service officers who are experts in dealing with the VA and are the key to your suc-cess. Our cadre of highly-trained and professional advocates help veterans cut through bureaucratic red tape. In 2016 alone, VA reports veterans rep-

resented by the VFW received more than $7.2 bil-lion in earned benefits. VFW Service Officers are trained experts, helping veterans develop their case with ease by reviewing and applying current law, pertinent legislation, regulations and medical histories. As skilled professionals, we assist in fil-ing for disability compensation, rehabilitation and education programs, pension and death benefits, and employment and training programs. Further-more, we won’t hesitate to request hearings before the VA and the Board of Veterans Appeals to pres-ent oral arguments when needed.

ARIZONA VFW NEWS PAGE 5Issue 50-2 May 2018

Say goodbye to paper dues notices. With VFW AUTOPAY, you pro-vide your payment information (credit, debit card or bank account) at www.vfw.org, and your membership is automatically renewed annually. It’s just that easy. Best of all, you’re in full control of your membership record. You can change your payment information or cancel at any time. Plus, you can make other changes yourself, like updating contact information, requesting replacement membership cards and more. With the NEW “Subscription Dues” your membership is good for 365 days from the time of re-newal. (If renewing early, 365 days will be added to your current due date.) ● Your membership always stays current ● Saves you time and postage ● 24/7 access to your membership record. GET STARTED TODAY. Click “Login” at www.vfw.org. Click “Member Services.” Click “Manage Account” and “Yes” under the AutoPay option. Enter payment information. To take advantage of VFW AUTOPAY by phone call 800-963-3180

Automatically Renew Your VFW Membership

Burger King and Sports Clips Make a Huge Difference... Please Support our Supporters Burger King has been assisting service mem-bers and military families during times of financial hardship, through the Unmet Needs program that pro-vides grants of up to $5,000 toward basic life necessities like rent, mortgage and utility payments, vehicle repair, medical expenses and food. Since its inception in 2004, Unmet Needs has provided more than $7.9 million in

aid to struggling service members, veterans and their families. “For more than a decade, the VFW has been providing a lifeline for so many military families during an already trying time in their lives,” said VFW National Commander Keith Harman. “The generosity and sup-port shown by BURGER KING® franchisees and their loyal guests ensures America’s heroes can continue to count on the VFW for much-needed as-sistance. I sincerely encourage every American to visit their local partici-pating restaurant to show their support.” Since 2007, participating BURGER KING® franchisees have raised nearly $4.5 million in support of the program. More than 1,000 restau-rants nationwide participated in last year’s fundraising campaign with even higher participation expected this year.

The VFW and Sport Clips es-tablished the Help A Hero scholarship program in 2013, but have worked to-gether for more than a decade to sup-

port America’s service members and their families. The “Sport Clips Help A Hero Scholarship” program provides up to $5,000 of assistance to qualified individuals who have served in the military, are in need of financial assistance, and are pursuing an education at post-secondary institutions, including trade schools. To date, Sport Clips, clients, team members and product partners have raised more than $3 million for the program, which resulted in more than 800 scholarships being awarded. “We’ve fought hard to expand the Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits, protect-ing and expanding educational benefits for future generations,” said VFW Na-tional Commander Keith Harman. “Together with Sport Clips’ support, we will continue to ensure today’s service members and veterans receive every opportunity for success, one scholarship at a time.” Sport Clips is the official haircutter of the VFW, and its Help A Hero program is just one of many ways the company supports active-duty military and veterans. To find out more, visit your local Sport Clips or SportClips.com.

Tim Borland Perusing Top Seat In VFW Tim Borland, Life Member of Post 9972 Sierra Vista, is a candidate for the VFW Western Con-ference’s nomina-tion for National Jr. Vice Commander in

Chief Select in July 2019. Tim earned his eligibility to join the VFW during his long 28 year career in the U.S. Army, retiring as a First Sergeant at Ft. Huachuca in Sierra Vista with de-ployments to Korea and Iraq. If se-lected, Tim will then advance to Na-tional Jr. Vice Commander in Chief in 2020-21 and then Commander in Chief in 2022-23. Tim has been traveling the country since last November 2015 and has already visited numerous Departments since January this year

with 9 endorsements. Tim’s passion and loyalty for this organization is strong as he continues to travel all over the Nation promoting the VFW and encouraging younger members from Iraq and Afghanistan to join. He provides them assistance and guidance when needed and listens to their concerns. If you would like to help Tim in his quest to become VFW Nation-al Commander in Chief, then please contact him at 520-678-9180 and join his team. At this time donations are being accepted to help alleviate travel expenses. If you would like to donate please feel free to do so by ei-ther visiting his website at www. ev-eryveterancounts2020.org or make checks payable to “Every Veteran Counts 2020” and note on the check “Tim’s Campaign” and send it to:

Tim Borland ● 2089 W Cave Cotton Loop● Benson, AZ 85602

We understand the challeng-es veterans, service members and military families can face and be-lieve that experiencing financial dif-ficulties should not be one of them. That's the premise behind the VFW's Unmet Needs program. Unmet Needs is there to help America's military families who have run into unexpected financial diffi-culties as a result of deployment or other military-related activity or in-jury. The program provides financial aid grants of up to $1,500 to assist with basic life needs in the form of a grant - not a loan - so no repayment

is required. To further ease the bur-den, we pay the creditor directly. The needs of our veterans, service members and their families should never go unmet. Let us offer you a hand up when you need it! For additional information, and to see if you or someone you know qualifies for a grant through the Unmet Needs program, please review the Unmet Needs eligibility criteria https://www.vfw.org/assis-tance/financial-grants If you have any questions, please send us an email unmetneeds@vfw.org or call us at 1-866-789-6333

"Unmet Needs" Financial Grant Program

James Robert Currieo, 83, passed away on October 17, 2017. “Bob” was a retired Sgt Ma-jor from the US Army, Post 9972 Commander, AZ State Commander and Commander in Chief of the VFW National organization. Bob also was a staffer for Senator Mc-Cain in the Tucson office. Bob leaves behind his wife, Cecilia; daughter, Denita; and son, James. At Bob’s request: In lieu of flowers please make a donation to VFW Post 9972 relief fund that is used to assist needy veterans.

Past State Commanders Pass On

Francis MacDonnell, Sr., 84, of Sierra Vista passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 5, 2017. He was a lifetime mem-ber of VFW Post 9972 having held virtually every position within the organization and culminating in his term as VFW Department of Arizona Commander from 1982 to 1983. His Army career spanned 27 years to include two tours of Vietnam. He retired with the rank of Sergeant First Class.

People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.

ARIZONA VFW NEWS PAGE 6Issue 50-2 May 2018

The Voice of Democracy has been the Veterans of Foreign Wars’ (VFW’s) premier scholarship pro-gram. Each year, almost 40,000 high school students compete for more than $2 million in scholarships and incentives. Students compete by writing and record-ing an audio essay on an annual patriotic theme. On January 20, 2018 Arizona’s VFW show-cased their best at the VOD Patriots Pen banquet in

Casa Grande. Students competed at the Post level, ad-vanced to District level then on to the State level where Annabell Peltzer representing Post 9829 Payson was judged the best of the best and was presented with the $2000.00 Post 9400 Sunnyslope award. Anna-bell also won a free trip to Washington DC to compete against 53 other contestants from around the globe. Photos by: George Leon, Post 6310

Annabel E. Peltzer-1st Place$2000.00 Post 9400 Sunnyslope Award

Representing Post 9829 Payson

Eric M. Hendrix - 2nd Place$1000.00 Post 9399 Apache Jct.Award

Representing Post 1433 Glendale

Jascha Jacob Ely Halliwill - 3rd Place$750.00 Post 7968 Apache Jct. Award

Representing Post 1760 Mesa

Dakota J. Heap - 4th Place$350.00 Jim & Bambi Johnson AwardRepresenting Post 9972 Sierra Vista

Jane H. Wang - 4th Place$350.00 Post 9907 Show Low AwardRepresenting Post 8053 Sun Lakes

Gabriel L. Szabo - 4th Place$350.00 District 4 Award

Representing Post 9632 Page

Moriah R. Freedman - 4th Place$350.00 Post 12043 Maricopa Award

Representing Post 3708 Salome

Brooke N. Bahde - 4th Place$350.00 Corky Gripp/Johnny Hoskins Award

Representing Post 8053 Sun Lakes

Victor G. Schnurr - 4th Place$350.00 Post 8053 Sun Lakes Award

Representing Post 549 Tucson

AZ VFW & Auxiliary Voice of Democracy 2017-18January 20, 2018 Casa Grande, AZ The Voice of Democracy au-

dio-essay program celebrated its 71st year with nearly 40,000 students weighing in on this year’s theme, “American History: Our Hope for the Future.” Robyn Anzulis, sponsored by VFW Post 10076 and its Auxil-iary in Mt. Airy, Md., received an all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C., where she was presented with the $30,000 T.C. Selman Memorial Scholarship award and delivered her first-place essay. Annabel Peltzer, from Laveen, AZ, represented Post 9829 Payson finished in 11th place and was awarded the $3,000 Joseph and Irene Hansen Memorial Scholarship. The Patriot's Pen essay pro-gram has fostered patriotism by al-lowing students in grades 6-8 the opportunity to examine America’s history. 2018 first-place winner Karolina Mazur, sponsored by VFW Post 521 and its Auxiliary in Owings Mills, Md., received an all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C., where she accepted a $5,000 award and delivered her winning essay on this year’s theme, “America’s Gift to My Generation.” Kathryn Columbus, from Phoenix, Ariz., represented Post 9400 Sunnyslope finished in 10th place, and received the $500 San-ford-Springvale Memorial VFW Post 9935 Award.

The Big Show in DC

The Voice of Democracy theme for 2018-19 is “Why My Vote Matters". The audio-essay competi-tion is open to all students in grades 9-12, with the top prize being a $30,000 scholarship award. The Patriot’s Pen essay com-petition is open to all students in grades 6-8, and the 2018-19 compe-tition asks students to examine the statement, “Why I Honor the Ameri-can Flag.” The first-place winner will receive a $5,000 award. Student entries may be sub-mitted (along with a completed en-try form) to their local participating VFW Post. The deadline for both contests is October 31, 2018.

State Auxiliary President Reba Dermody, Annabel Peltzer, and state Commander Ken Marshall at the festivities in DC.

ARIZONA VFW NEWS PAGE 7Issue 50-2 May 2018

The Patriots Pen Program is conducted simi-lar to the VOD with the exception of recording the essay and is open to seventh, and eighth grade stu-dents. Entrants are required to write a 300-400 word essay on an announced patriotic theme. “America's Gift to My Generation” was the theme for 2017-2018. All national awards totaled $50,500. There were 54 to-

tal finalists, one from each state, the District of Colum-bia, Pacific Areas, Europe and Panama Canal. Kathryn M. Columbus representing Post 9400 Sunnyslope has been named Arizona’s recipient of the first place $500.00 AZ VFW Auxiliary award. Photos by: George Leon, Post 6310

Kathryn M. Columbus - 1st Place$500.00 Arizona VFW Auxiliary AwardRepresenting Post 9400 Sunnyslope

Javier Martinez Peralta - 2nd Place $400.00 District 10 Award

Representing Post 2066 Nogales

Angel M. Termain - 4th Place$100.00 Post 12043 Maricopa Award

Representing Post 3715 Phoenix

Jacqueline M. Vargas - 4th Place$100.00 Post 8053 Sun Lakes AwardRepresenting Post 7400 Cottonwood

Marie N. Flake - 4th Place$100.00 Post 9632 Page AwardRepresenting Post 5990 Marana

Kenna M. Elliott - 4th Place$100.00 Bob & Ruth Ann Wilson Award

Representing Post 769 Quartzsite

Brandon D. Nevers - 4th Place$100.00 Post 9907 Show Low Award

Representing Post 10695 Sun City West

Marcus D. Kroger - 4th Place$100.00 District 4 Award

Representing Post 10386 Kingman

Julia Fleckenstein - 4th Place$100.00 Cootie Pup Tent #13 AwardRepresenting Post 8053 Sun Lakes

Arizona VFW & Auxiliary Patriots Pen 2017-18January 20, 2018 Casa Grande, AZ

Ashley Marshall - Grades 6 thru 8Rio Vista Elementary

Sponsored by Post 40 Avondale

Larry Olson - Grades 9 thru 12 Lake Havasu High School

Sponsored by Post 9401 Lake Havasu

Brenda Alamillo - Grades K thru 5 Quentin Stem Academy AvondaleSponsored by Post 40 Avondale

Teachers of the Year

ARIZONA VFW NEWS PAGE 8Issue 50-2 May 2018

Take this opportunity to promote your business, candidate, publicize a Post/Dis-trict or just say hello, happy birthday etc... in the 2017-18 convention program. All participants of the 98th annual convention of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Arizona, will receive this book. We are ex-pecting over 1500 people again this year. This program book lists all scheduled activities and is used as a guide book. Advertising rates are listed to the right. Simply complete this form and mail it along with a CAMERA READY AD COPY or email PDF. If you have any questions about submitting, please call me. Materials must arrive at the Arizona VFW state office by May 13, 2018 to be in-cluded in this book. Payment must accompany the ad copy. We have the right to refuse ads not conforming with VFW viewpoints and values.

VFW Dept. of AZ is a 501(c)(19) tax exempt organization. #86-0076886. A receipt will be mailed to your address listed below upon request. Questions may be directed to Ski Kuczynski, at the state office 480-941-5258 azvfw3@gmail.com

____ Vendor Table ($150.00)

____ One-quarter page ($25.00)

____ One-half page ($40.00)

____ Full page ad ($75.00)

Checks should be made payable to: VFW Dept. of Arizona*note convention book Mail to:VFW Dept. of Arizona 6423 S. Ash Ave.Tempe, AZ 85283azvfw3@gmail.com

Contact Person

E-Mail

Phone

11”

Quarter Page 2½” x 4” $25.00

Half Page 5”x 4” $40.00

Full Page 5”x 8” $75.00

8.5”

*All ads will be printed in black & white

DETACH AND RETURN WITH AD COPY AND PAYMENT(email PDF’s preferred)

Convention Book Ad

The VFW Action Corps is our national grassroots advocacy network comprised of more than 300,000 VFW members and patriot-ic supporters of veterans. This group stays up-to-date on the issues facing our veterans, our military and their families, standing ready to email, write, call and visit our nation’s law-makers to make their voices heard. The VFW Action Corps is free and open to all patriotic Americans who care about the military and veterans’ communities. Join the VFW Action Corps today and add your voice to the thou-sands of veterans’ advocates making a difference every day, and if you’re already a member of the VFW Ac-tion Corps, encourage your friends and neighbors to join the effort! To join go to: www.vfw.org/advocacy/grassroots-efforts

VFW Action Corps

Limited number of tables available

Application Period for The Home Depot 2018 Community Impact Grant is Now Open

The Home Depot has started accepting applications for their 2018 Community Impact Grant. VFW Posts can receive up to $5,000 to fund repairs or construction projects at their Post building. While there are no guarantees to being funded, several VFW Posts have been award-ed this grant in the past.

Home Depot Grant Applications are only ac-cepted through Home Depot’s on-line form. Telephone calls, emails or written submissions sent to Home Depot will NOT be accepted, nor will you be able to turn this application in at your local Home Depot store. Applicants should expect a decision by email within six weeks of submis-sion. Grants are awarded in the form of Home Depot gift cards which can be used to purchase tools and ma-terials at a local Home Depot Store. Keep in mind that all projects must be completed within six months of approval date, so time your appli-cation accordingly. We encourage applicants to pay close attention to

the tax ID instructions. VFW Posts must use an Employee Identification Number (EIN) and upload the Post’s 501(c)(19) IRS determination letter or From 990 (first page) at the end of the application. If you cannot locate your Post’s 501(c)(19) letter, follow the instructions below under “Lost IRS Determination Letter” on how to request a copy from the IRS. Also new to the application process this year is a required de-tailed project budget. To aid VFW Posts and members as they com-plete the application process, the VFW Foundation has developed an instructional guide. Download the 2018 Home Depot Grant Guide and sample detailed project budget from the AZVFW.COM on the forms page. The VFW Foundation has tried to make the instructions as simple as possible, and deviation from this guide could result in an applica-tion not being accepted. If you have any questions, please contact Ja-son Couch, VFW Foundation grants coordinator, at 816- 968-1174 or jcouch@vfw.org.

Lost IRS Determination Letter? Many VFW Posts fall under the “Group exemption” of their De-partment, which means their De-partment’s IRS determination letter is also theirs. However, each Post has its own unique Employee Identi-fication Number or (EIN). Department leadership should be able to tell you if your Post falls under a group exemption, but you may also call IRS Customer Service for nonprofit organizations at 1-877-829-5500. If the IRS rep-resentative is unable to furnish you with a new copy of your letter, you can make a written request by filling out the Request for Public Inspec-tion or Copy of Exempt or Political Organization IRS Form 4506 A. The form can be faxed to the IRS at 513-263-4330 or 513-263-3434, or your request can be mailed to IRS, Room 4024, P.O. Box 2508, Cincinnati, OH 45201.

VFW’s Sport Clips Help a Hero scholarship is now in its fifth year. More than $4.1 million has been awarded to 943 military and student veterans. The scholarship provides service members and veterans up to $5,000 in post-secondary scholar-ships.

“Through the generosity of Sport Clips and its founder, VFW life mem-ber Gordon Logan, we were able to create the Help a Hero Scholarship program in 2014 to help a new gen-eration of patriots attain their edu-cational goals,” VFW Commander-in-Chief Keith Harman said.

Scholarship applications are being accepted for the 2018 fall se-mester. Apply at:www.vfw.org/scholarship

$4.1 Million Awarded

Past CIC Gwizdak's Motivational Words of Wisdom Past Commander in Chief John Gwizdak gave an exceptional motivational speech to the AZ Council of Administration and mem-bers present during the C of A meeting in Casa Grande. The Cheif kept the members riveted – and at the right time wonderfully amused – you could see in the eyes of the attendees of how interest-ing and informative he was. Cheif Gwizdak certainly had the attention of all.

ARIZONA VFW NEWS PAGE 9Issue 50-2 May 2018

By becoming a VFW Life Member, you make a lifetime commitment to serving your fellow service members and veterans. That’s something to take great pride in. You can also enjoy many great benefits of being a life member! You will: ●Avoid annual dues and renewals. ●Maintain your member-ship in any Post you choose, worldwide! ●Never pay an increase in dues...Guaranteed! ●Receive a 10% discount on exclusive VFW Store merchandise for the first year.

You can become a VFW Life Member by making a one-time payment as shown above. You can also pay for your Life Membership through our installment plan, with an initial $45 payment, the Life Membership amount will be billed over an 11-month period as shown in the table above.

Life Membership is a Bargain

1.) Call me at State Headquarters 480-941-5258 (M-F 8am-3pm) and I can convert you to Life Membership (one time payment only) with a valid credit card .

2.) Make your payment over the phone by credit or debit card directly to National. You can also enroll in the installment Plan. Call toll free 1-800-963-3180. Tell the receptionist that you want to convert to Life Membership

4.) You may go to the VFW On-Line Membership System (OMS) at https://www.vfw.org, Click on Login, scroll down and click on Create an Account (click “login” if you already have an account). Please follow the instructions for setting up an OMS account. Once the account has been activated, you may pay dues, administer address changes, Convert to Life Membership, re-quest duplicate membership cards, etc.

18-30 Years Old $425.00 $38.6431-40 Years Old $410.00 $37.27 41-50 Years Old $375.00 $34.09 51-60 Years Old $335.00 $30.45 61-70 Years Old $290.00 $26.36 71-80 Years Old $225.00 $20.45 81 Years & Over $170.00 $15.45

One-Time Payment

Life Member Options$45 + 11

Payments ofAGE as of

DECEMBER 31st

*To Enroll in the Installment Plan, you must call National 1-800-963-3180

How you can become a Life Member:

“It could be something as simple as “I could start work tomorrow, but I need transportation and my alterna-tor went out. I found a place that will fix it for $500. Can you pay for that?” My answer is sure. The Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services is proud to launch the Veteran Tool Kit Program. It was created to help unemployed veterans get the supplies they need to start working. Surveyed veterans repeat-edly said they were ready to work, but needed a few things to get them there, ranging from boots and tools to bicy-cles.“The program isn’t confined to just one industry or need. People think because it’s called the toolkit, it’s just for construction. If your applica-tion shows you’ve done the leg work looking for employment, you have a potential employer, and you just need a few things to start that job, we can help,” ADVS Assistant Depu-ty Director, John Scott.

If you’re going to start work on Monday, let’s make it happen,” ADVS Assistant Deputy Director, John Scott says. ADVS Director, Wanda Wright, and Scott toured the state asking vet-erans how they could help them be-come gainfully employed. Veterans repeatedly said they were ready to work, but needed things to get them there, ranging from boots and tools to bicycles. 62-percent of veterans polled said if they had this program, they would have a job immediately.Qualifying veterans must:• Live in Arizona• Be enrolled in an Arizona Depart-ment of Economic Security employ-ment program• Identify the job they need supplies for.This pilot program will offer $150,000 over the course of this fiscal year, with a limit of $750 per veteran. We will use the results from this year to de-termine the program’s next step. For more information, call 602-255-3373.

Arizona Department Of Veterans’ Services Launches Program For Unemployed Veterans

There are a few things going on around here and we want to let you know about them. If you have questions about any of the updates or would like to share feedback, please email prphoenix@va.gov.

Release of Information (Records request) process changes There's a new way to request your medical records at the Phoenix VA. Now, you can access any kiosk in the main facility or throughout each Community Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOC). You can still get your records with a paper request at the main facility. Also, you may also access and print your own information if you're signed up through MyHealtheVet. This process will take up to 20 days to receive your records. Same Day requests by providers can be faxed to 602-222-6495.

Immunization Clinic closureThe main facility immunization clinic, located in the ACC lobby area, will close for the season on Friday, March 16, 2018. Immunizations are still

available by contacting your Patient Aligned Care Team (PACT)!

Urology Clinic has moved The Urology Clinic has moved from its previous location on the second floor, to the other side of the main facility on the first floor in the ACC. Now located in the Turquoise Clinic, you can find the Urology Clinic just inside the ACC lobby entrance, across from the Patient Advocate Office.

Dental Clinic has moved It's been a couple of months, but in case you haven't heard, the Dental Clinic moved to its own location on the northeast side of the main campus at 650 E. Indian School Rd. This brand-new, state-of-the-art facility is located in Bldg. 28, behind the employee parking area, along 7th Street.

Have you enrolled in MyHealtheVet? When you enroll in MyHealtheVet and verify your identification in person, you can ac-

cess your Premiere account, allowing you to refill prescriptions with the touch of a button. These re-fills will be sent directly to your address on file. Additionally, you can communicate with your Pa-tient Aligned Care Team (PACT) through secure messaging. You can see lab and test results and download medical records.

Please don't be a no-show! We need your help to reduce no shows. Here's what you can do:

- If you can't keep your scheduled appointment, always call to cancel as soon as possible. That will allow us to offer the appointment to another Vet-eran who needs to be seen! If you need to cancel, call 602-277-5551, option 2.- Please inform us of changes in your address or phone number- Realize that those who don't show for their ap-pointment without cancelling are greatly affecting other Veterans' ability to be seen.

Important updates from the Phoenix VA Health Care System

Contact us here at State Headquarters:Got Questions?

Arizona VFW6423 S. Ash Ave. Tempe, AZ 85283

azvfw3@gmail.com480-941-5258 fax 480-994-3730

I’ve missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games. 26 times I’ve been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed. —Michael Jordan

ARIZONA VFW NEWS PAGE 10Issue 50-2 May 2018

April 201808- District 7 Convention, 10am @ Post 9972 Sierra Vista14- District 2 Convention, 11am @ Post 541 Prescott14- District 6 Convention, 11am @ Post 1704 Globe15- District 10 Convention, 10am @ Post 9399 Apache Jct.22- District 1 Convention, 11am @ Post 769 Quartzsite22- District 8 Convention, 11am @ Post 9401 Lake Havasu28- District 5 Convention, 10am @ Post 5990 Marana

May 201805- District 3 Convention, 10am @ Post 1433 Glendale12- District 4 Convention, 10am @ Post 9400 Sunnyslope18-20- MOC Grand Convention @ Four Points, Phoenix

June 201806-09- State Convention @ Scottsdale Plaza Resort10- Incoming C of A 9am @ Scottsdale Plaza Resort

National ConventionsJuly 21-25, 2018 - National Convention @ Kansas City, MOJuly 20-24, 2019 - National Convention @ Orlando, FLJuly 18-22, 2020 - National Convention @ Ajo, AZ

Department of ArizonaMeeting Schedule

The following is the proposed Department schedule for the upcoming months. Please check with the respective Chairmen and/or Posts in the event of changes or cancellations.

7200 N. Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85253 Phone reservations 800-832-2025 Code “VFW” Wednesday June 6 thru Sunday June 10, 2018

Request special considerations at this time (handicap, first floor etc...) Room Rates: Deluxe King/Double Queen $83.00 + tax

Deadline for Reservations is May 6, 2018

VFW & Auxiliary State Convention 2017-18Scottsdale Plaza Resort

VFW’s Unmet Needs program helps America’s military families who have experienced unexpected financial difficulties. The program, supported by Burger King franchisees, provides financial aid to assist those with basic life needs in the form of a grant — not a loan. Since 2004, Unmet Needs has given $9.7 million to more than 8,300 military and veteran families. This includes 389 families in Puerto Rico, who each received a $300 grant after hur-ricanes devastated the island in 2017.Learn more about the Unmet Needs program at:https://www.vfw.org/assistance/financial-grants.

DO I QUALIFY FOR UNMET NEEDS?To be eligible to receive financial assistance through VFW’s Unmet Needs program, a recipi-ent must:

• Be on active duty, whose financial hardship is a result of deployment, military pay error or medi-cal discharge.• Have been discharged on or after Sept. 11, 2001, whose financial hardship is a direct result of mil-itary-service connected injuries and/or illnesses that are causing an employment hardship.• Have been discharged prior to Sept. 11, 2001, who is on a fixed income (VA compensation, SSI, SSDI) and/or whose financial hardship is an emergency situation.The financial hardship can’t be caused by:• Civil, legal or domestic issues; misconduct; or any issues that result from spousal separation or divorce.• Financial mismanagement by self or others, or due to bankruptcy.Eligible expenses:

• Household (mortgage, rent, repairs, insurance)• Vehicle (payments, insurance, repairs)• Utilities• Food and clothing• Children’s clothing, diapers, formula, school or childcare expenses• Medical bills, prescriptions eyeglassesIneligible expenses• Credit cards, military charge cards or retail store cards• Cable, internet or secondary phones• Cosmetic or investigational medial procedures/expenses• Taxes• Furniture, electronic equipment or vehicle rent-als• Any other expenses not determined to be a basic life need

VFW’s Unmet Needs Program Has Disbursed $9.7 million

ARIZONA VFW NEWS PAGE 11Issue 50-2 May 2018

Are you tired of s e a r c h i n g the internet

for the lowest fares or best deals, only to find out the seat is sold out, or the package you have found has strings attached? Veterans Travel Service, Inc. has been providing travel assis-tance to the VFW and its members since 1987. We are located in the VFW Headquarters building and of-fer many types of travel assistance. Our staff always has your travel needs in mind and we offer the personal service that has made our reputation what it is today! We also do group travel as well as in-centive or business travel. When you call our office, there is NO au-tomated receptionist, from the first time you call, you get real people and professional travel consultants.

We offer rebates for any cruise or tour package booked through our office and will be more than happy to provide assistance with airfare. Since the airlines elim-inated our commissions several years ago, we do charge a nominal fee on airline tickets, but remember, we are the experts and many times will beat the lowest fares on the in-ternet. For immediate assistance, we are open Monday - Friday, from 8:30am to 5:30pm central time, please call 1-800-325-9377. If you are not sure where you want to travel, feel free to visit our website for ideas at www.vtstvl.com. As a VFW member, see what savings this "benefit program" can be for you! If travel is in your future, call Veterans Travel Service, Inc. for ALL of your travel needs.

Veterans Travel Service Member Benefits

Sign up to receive Washington Weekly and stay in-the-know on key issues affecting veterans and military.You’ll get the latest on what’s happening with veterans’ legislation, national security and other news affecting America’s defenders. Go to: http://capwiz.com/vfw/mlm/signup.htm and follow directions. You may, of course, unsubscribe at any time.

What’s Happening in Washington, D.C.

Fall Conference in Casa Grande The Fall Conference was held in Casa Grande on October 28, 2017 and was filled to capacity with VFW and Auxiliary members as it is every year. The Casa Grande High School JROTC opened the day with the presen-tation of colors. Everyone was schooled on all VFW & Auxiliary programs by the respective chair people and Mike Kemery & the JROTC did a fantastic POW/MIA recognition ceremony on Saturday. The weekend concluded with the Council of Administration meetings on Sunday morning.Photos by: George Leon, Post 6310

PAGE 12Issue 50-2 May 2018 ARIZONA VFW NEWS

Starting back on September 23, 2017, a lone POW/MIA flag began an 8 month journey that was unique in its mode of travel and in its purpose. This one flag was to travel the literal length and breadth of this land, from Hawaii to Maine and from Alaska to Florida, passing from group to group and state to state until it had visited all 50 states of America. The means of travel was to be primarily by motorcycle, or, when adverse weather or an ocean demanded it, by other means. While in each state, honors were to be given for the flag so that people will recognize and understand the sym-bolism of, and reality behind, a POW/MIA flag. At the same time, it would give individuals an opportunity to make or reaffirm a solemn and sacred obligation, that EVERY POW and EVERY MIA that fought for our country will NEVER be forgotten or be allowed to slip into obscurity, and that every means shall be exhausted to account for their fate. On January 28, 2018, the flag entered Arizona and due diligence was rendered. The flag has since been passed along and will have passed through many more hands and states by this reading, but the intent of the shared flag is what we hope remains in its path: Remembering the fate of the POW/MIA. Their fate is we something we will always share with them. Jim Ellars, VFW, Dept. of AZ, Nat’l Legislative Officer

Going The Distance For POW/MIAS

All-American Post 9972

Family of Vietmam Veteran FinallyPresented With His Medals

VFW District 5 members gathered at Post 5990 Marana to welcome with open arms, the 50 State tour of the POW/MIA flag.

Post 404 Commander George DeLeon (right) and DeBoard (left) presented the medals to an emotional Medrano in a surprise ceremony Jan. 15, 2018 in the Post .

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 404 Auxiliary President Johnny De-Board’s search for paperwork to confirm eligibility for a prospective member turned up more than expected. William F. Graham Jr., father and qualifying veteran of Yvonne Medrano, was to have been awarded several medals and ribbon for his service that had never been presented. They included Good Conduct medals from the Air Force and Army (before 1963 Air Force personnel got the Army medal); three Air Force Lon-gevity Service Award Ribbons, a National Defense Ribbon, Vietnam Service Medal, and a Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.

VFW Arizona State Commander presents the National All American Post award to Sierra Vista Post 9972 Commander Jim McCormick.

The All-American leadership program exists to recognize exceptional leadership, authentic accomplishment in membership growth and VFW core programs. Jim received this prestigeous award along with these Command-ers. Roger Gowen - State Commander, Jim Katzenberger - District 3, Rich-ard Veenhuis - District 10, Glenn Stark - Post 285, Mike Pearson - Post 1433, Anthony Hernandez - Post 1704, Bobby Trujillo - Post 3715, Carl Krawczyk - Post 7507, Derek Tramondo - Post 7968, Jim Johnson - Post 9399Mark Short - Post 9400 andDennis Grau - Post 10695.

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