AMVETS Fall 2022 | Text edition← Open flipbookAMVETS Fall 2022
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Document page 1: Front cover
Original cover artwork. AMVETS Fall 2022. National Executive Committee Meeting. December 3, 2022. Report Book.
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Document page 2: Table of contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Fall 2022 National Executive Committee Agenda .......................................................................... 2
District I Commander ...................................................................................................................... 3
District II Commander ..................................................................................................................... 8
District III Commander ................................................................................................................... 13
District IV Commander ................................................................................................................... 19
District V Commander ..................................................................................................................... 28
District VI Commander ................................................................................................................... 32
Leadership/Staff Reports ................................................................................................................. 37
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Document page 3: NEC meeting agenda
AGENDA
District I Commander
Connecticut
Delaware
Maine
Massachusetts
New York
New Jersey
District II Commander
D.C.
Maryland
North Carolina
Virginia
District III Commander
Alabama
Georgia
Kentucky
Louisiana
South Carolina
Tennessee
District IV Commander
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Missouri
Ohio
Pennsylvania
District V Commander
N. Dakota
Kansas
Nebraska
Texas
District VI Commander
Alaska
California
New Mexico
Washington
Leadership/Staff Reports
National Commander Don McLean
National Auxiliary President Karin Simmons
1st Vice Commander Bill Clark
2nd Vice Commander Horace Johnson
3rd Vice Commander Paul Shipley
National Judge Advocate PNC Jim King
National Chaplain Milton Allen
National V A VS Representative PNC JP
Brown
National Staff Reports
National Executive Director Joe Chenelly
National Service Director Michael Black
Chief Medical Executive Cherissa Jackson
Acting Membership Director Carolyn
Taylor-Harrison
National Programs Director Carol Hebert
National Communications Officer Miles
Migliara
2
AMVETS Fall 2022 National Executive Committee (NEC) Meeting
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Document page 4: Department of Connecticut National District I
Report of Albert J. Duff, NEC
Department of Connecticut National District I
Membership
Membership continues to come in steadily. AMVETS
Post 45 has reached 100% renewal. Membership Director
Douglas Newell continues to work with our post in getting
memberships renewed.
Programs
Many posts have continued getting their reports to me
which in turn I submit to the National AMVETS. Many
of our programs continue to be very active. Some of these
programs include Operation Gift Card, Take a Vete Fish-
ing, and Veteran Stand Downs. AMVETS Post 47's
Military Funeral Honor Guard continues to be very active.
Service
V A VS activities are still not up and running due to con-
tinued restrictions at our V A hospitals. We do continue to
support our Veterans that are in nursing homes.
Upcoming Events
Our Post throughout the state are planning their Veteran
Day activities. they are also planning activities for Pearl
Harbor Day and Wreaths Across America. AMVETS De-
partment of Connecticut will host the next National District
One Meeting which will be held on November 18th, 19th,
and 20th at the Marriott in Windsor, Connecticut.
We are excited that our National Commander will be
attending.
Legislative
With Elections fast approaching, We in Connecticut will
be watching closely for the results. A lot has been accom-
plished over the last few years and we want to see that
trend continue into 2023. We in Connecticut continue to
receive Legislative updates from the National AMVETS as
well as from our Legislators.
Other
The AMVETS Department of Connecticut would like to
wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season. Many
will celebrate with family and friends. But let us not forget
those who will not have that opportunity as they continue
to serve our country in allparts of the world. Remember to
keep them and their families in your thoughts.
3
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Document page 5: Department of Delaware National District I
Report of Douglas Porter, NEC
Department of Delaware National District I
Membership
85%
Programs
All posts have been doing fundraisers 2 ROTC cadets to
attend Freedom Foundation at Valley Forge.
Service
The Department has assisted numerous Veterans through
the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Upcoming Events
trip to Vietnam memorial in April 2023 veterans day
ceremony.
Legislative
Department and Posts are actively involved on the National
and State level with Legislators.
4
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Document page 6: Department of Maine National District I
Report of James E. Laflin, NEC
Department of Maine National District I
Membership
THE DEPT. OF MAINE CONTINUES TO GET ALL
THEIR POSTS TO PUSH TO HA VE ALL THEIR
ANNUAL MEMBERS RENEW. WE ARE AT ABOUT
70% FOR ANNUAL RENEWALS. IT'S BEEN
HARD TO GET POSTS BACK ON LINE WITH MEET-
INGS. WE ARE SLOWLY GETTING MEMBERSHIP
RENEWALS IN.
Programs
THE DEPT. OF MAINE CONTINUES TO STRIVE TO
GET ALL POSTS BACK ONLINE TO REPORT ALL
PROGRAMS. OUR 1ST VICE IS TRYING TO KEEP UP
WITH IT, BUT BECAUSE OF THE VIRUS IT 'S
HARD TO GET MEMBERS TO SEND THEIR RE-
PORTS IN.
Service
THE DEPT. OF MAINE CONTINUES TO WORK WITH
THE MAINE VETERANS COORDINATING COM-
MITTEE TO HELP FIGHT FOR ALL VETERANS IN
THE STATE. WE ALSO WORK CLOSELY WITH THE
STATE DEPT. OF VETERANS SERVICES AND OUR
V A HOSPITAL TO HELP
VETERANS.
Upcoming Events
THE DEPT. WILL HOLD ITS ANNUAL PEARL
HARBOR DAY CEREMONY ON DEC. ALSO OTHER
POSTS ARE HOLDING LOCAL CEREMONIES.
Legislative
WE’RE CONSTANTLY CHECKING ON ANY NEW
VETERANS BILLS THAT CONCERN VETERANS.
Communications/PRO
THE DEPT. OF MAINE CONVENTION WAS HELD
JUNE 3-5 AT THE HILTON GARDEN INN, RIVER-
WATCH IN AUBURN MAINE.
Other
THIS IS MY REPORT AND I MOVE FOR IT'S
ADOPTION AT THE PROPER TIME.
5
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Document page 7: Department of Massachusetts National District I
Report of Raymond Kowal, NEC
Department of Massachusetts National District I
Membership
Membership is going very slow. Our overall numbers are
down post pandemic. We are doing our best to get the
word out there about our mission and goals. Gaining new
members is of the utmost importance and continues to be
our top priority.
Programs
Some programs are up and running at full speed while
others are a work in progress. We held our annual fishing
derby for veterans with invites being sent out to all V A
facilities within the state. Hudson Post 208 along with our
state department officers attended the event and it was a
great success. We are supporting events the best we can at
all facilities across our commonwealth.
Service
Membership is going very slow. Our overall numbers are
down post pandemic. We are doing our best to get the
word out there about our mission and goals. Gaining new
members is of the utmost importance and continues to be
our top priority.
Upcoming Events
As I write this, we have a group led by AMVET Jim Chart-
ier doing their 90 mile walk across the state. This is their
7th year of doing it and trying to bring veterans’ concerns
to our state house and to the citizens of our state. He starts
the walk at AMVETS Post 12 in Chicopee and ends it on
the stairs of Beacon Hill Statehouse.
Legislative
We have the ever watchful eye on our state legislatures to
ensure the veterans needs are being met here within our
commonwealth.
Communications/PRO
Some programs are up and running at full speed while
others are a work in progress. We held our annual fishing
derby for veterans with invites being sent out to all V A
facilities within the state. Hudson Post 208 along with our
state department officers attended the event and it was a
great success. We are supporting events the best we can at
all facilities across our commonwealth.
Other
Our State Honor Guard has presented colors for the Boston
Red Sox, Celtics and the Bruins. They are working on be-
ing able to hold a 50/50 raffle at some of these events also
for a way to raise funds for our department.
6
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Document page 8: Department of New York National District I
Report of Jack Gray, NEC
Department of New York National District I
Membership
Commander Emery Perry has been working with all the
Posts to purify all our rosters by doing a little housekeep-
ing. As part of our recruitment program, we can forget
about our women veterans Cmdr. Perry has asked each
Post to strive for a 10 member gain. Remember our team
motto “together everyone achieves more”. WE need your
help to be successful.
Programs
Our V A VS reps and volunteers are still locked out of many
of our V A hospitals not permitted to visit our fellow vet-
erans. V A VS reps still go to the hospitals to drop supplies .
In July we attended the remembrance day at Fort Drum to
honor all the veterans who gave their lives in support of
our country. Our AMVETS RIDERS (more than 100 New
Yorkers) had a great showing at the Memorial Day celebra-
tion/parade in Washington DC.
Service
Our women’s rep has been researching the homeless
women’s situation. In a single night 40,000 veterans were
homeless, with 9% being women. There are many factors,
however, PSTD/MST are the driving forces for our
women. fishing tournaments for our veterans & their
families
Upcoming Events
New York’s next SEC meeting will be March 10-11,2023
at the Doubletree hotel in Binghamton, NY 607-722-7575.
The State convention will also be at the Doubletree June
10-11,2023.
Legislative
None Known
Communications/PRO
None Known
Other
None Known
7
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Document page 9: Department of New Jersey National District II
Report of John R. Cooper, NEC
Department of New Jersey National District II
Membership
Membership cards were mailed to NJ Posts along with
Membership Incentive Plan
Programs
Waiting to hear if Gloucester Twp School will hold their
annual Americanism Program.
Service
Fred Vineyard - V A Accredited VSO continues to assist
Veterans with filing for benefits.
Upcoming Events
In Somers Point...
November - Veterans Day
December - Pearl Harbor
Legislative
Continue to support New Jersey and Congress bills to
assist Veterans
Other
Unknown
8
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Document page 10: Department of District of Columbia National District II
Report of Aaron J. Smith, NEC
Department of District of Columbia National District II
Membership
The Department has accelerated our goals for the coming
year. Our goals such as recruiter of the year, one member
recruiting one new member, etc. which were delayed last
year because of the COVID-19 has been reestablished.
Programs
The Department continue providing funds each month to
the District of Columbia Veterans Administration Medical
Center (DCV AMC) V olunteer Service, which are to be
used for Comfort Kits, V oluntary Services Discretionary
Funds and Dental Funds. Johnnie Collins Jr. Post #008,
Monthly DC V AMC Community Living Center bingo has
changed since the outbreak of the pandemic. The Post is
now donating money for the hospital to finance the games
instead of physical participation.
Service
Post #12 is responsible for five (5) universities and institu-
tions that have ROTC programs in the District of Colum-
bia, they continue the great relationship with the American
University, Catholic University of America, Georgetown
University, George Washington University and The In-
stitute for World Politics. There was no ceremony this
year due to the pandemic, but the cadets that were due to
receive awards did get them. The awards were presented to
Major Brian Marcotte, Commander of the ROTC Consor-
tium Program. The DC Post #109 is advancing a goal to
begin a Post Women’s auxiliary by the first of the year.
Upcoming Events
District of Columbia Veterans administration hospital
Washington DC is hosting Winter Haven Day this year
at the Medical Center. This year the Medical Center has
targeted 300 homeless veterans and will provide them
with winter clothing. Because of Covid-19 no volunteers
can attend. However, DC AMVETS will make a financial
donation. The Department will host their Annual Seniors
Citizens Christmas Party for the Seniors at Greenleaf Se-
nior Center, 1200 Delaware Ave SE Washington DC.
Legislative
Unknown
Communications/PRO
Unknown
Other
Members of this Department teamed with the Combined
Military Retiree’s Associations of the District of Columbia
and delivered Thanksgiving Baskets to Military Veterans
Widowers in the DC area.
9
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Document page 11: Department of Maryland National District II
Report of Andre R. Martel, NEC
Department of Maryland National District II
Membership
I am very pleased to report that the Department of Mary-
land achieved a 100% membership rate during the past
year (2021-2022). Strong efforts by several Post Com-
manders and 1st Vices were definitely responsible for this
achievement. Although off to a sluggish start, we look
forward to another successful year in 2022-2023.
Programs
Programs kick-started in FY 2022 with an upspurt in
AADAA, Americanism, and Scholarship programs. We
were able to award $8,000 in academic scholarships while
presenting awards to multiple grade entrants for both
AADAA and Americanism. We were thrilled to be notified
that we have multiple national-level award recipients in
those categories. Well done by all the entrants and by our
programs administrators at Post and Department levels.
Service
We continue to keep in touch with our hospitalized and
ailing veterans across the State and at multiple V A centers.
While visitations are still restricted, we continue to provide
entertainment, gifts, social activities, and support (mon-
etary and otherwise) to several locations. We continue to
participate in monthly virtual call-in sessions with V A cen-
ters and continue two-way communication between those
centers and the veterans we serve.
Upcoming Events
The holidays are right around the corner and multiple
events are planned at each Post and in service to several
V A locations. The Thrift Store holiday celebration will be
held again this year in Laurel, Maryland which is not only
a festive evening but an opportunity to support approxi-
mately 15 different charitable organizations with gifts from
the Thrift Stores and matching donations from the Depart-
ment of Maryland. The Department continues to conduct
Executive Committee meetings, now mainly in person
although virtual attendance is also allowed in the new
hybrid format.
Legislative
Bills will be introduced into the legislature in January and,
while no pre-filings are currently available, we anticipate a
dozen or more bills will concern veterans and aid to veter-
ans across the State.
Communications Pro
None known
Other
Congratulations to SGM James Childs, Jr. who officially
retired from the District of Columbia National Guard after
25 years, 7 months, and 7 days of service. SGM Childs is
also the Post Commander of AMVETS Post 115 in Lan-
ham, MD and represents the Department of Maryland on
the Maryland State Veterans Commission. Congratulations
“Big Sarge”!!
10
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Document page 12: Department of North Carolina National District II
Report of David Wilburn, NEC
Department of North Carolina National District II
Membership
Our Department is still around 2,200 veterans. We are still
working on retaining members. Not many younger people
interested.
Programs
Our Department has several posts involved with programs.
Just to mention a few. We are placing flags on graves of
veterans for Veterans Day. One post had a Stand Down.
We are getting our JROTC medals and certificates to each
post. Golf tournaments were held this summer and fall to
raise money for posts.
One post is having a drive thru hotdog meal on Veterans
Day. So we are busy with programs. The Honor Guard is
always working and looking for new members.
Service
V A Hospitals are still closed for most volunteers. When
they reopen we can get back to helping the veterans.
Upcoming Events
January 13-15,2023 DEC. Clemmons, North Carolina.
Legislative
The Department of North Carolina is attending our state
veterans council meeting in Raleigh, North Carolina. No
other Legislative activity at this e.
Communications/PRO
Unknown
Other
We are very excited about the rumors of one or two new
Amvet posts.
11
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Document page 13: Department of Virginia National District II
Report of John Cooper, NEC
Department of Virginia National District II
Membership
Our Department 1st Vice Commander has been working
with the MAL’s list to move membership to local Posts.
Programs
Our Department 2nd Vice Commander has continued to
provide monthy reporting of programs to National HQ’s
Service
The Department will sponsor and participate in the
Wreaths across America this fall. One of our Post has
worked with the Department to collect food and donations
for our fellow AMVETS impacted by several disasters.
Upcoming Events
As always, all of the Posts in the Department will hold
holiday events for fellow AMVETS and Veterans.
Legislative
Department has been instrumental in getting a position
approved and funded for a Suicide Prevention and Opioid
Addiction Services Director. This has been a major effort
within the Department for the past three years for Suicide
Prevention programs.
Communications/PRO
None known
Other
At the last District II meeting, the major item was contact-
ing staff at National HQ’s. Our Department Officers need
that ability to do their jobs.
12
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Document page 14: Department of Alabama National District III
Report of Charles R Doubek, NEC
Department of Alabama National District III
Membership
Post 001 maintains contact with current members to in-
form, update and gather feedback.
Post 021 is continuing to strive to meet their goal of 100
members. Membership retention is 94% and they are aver-
aging 1.5 new members per month.
Post 23 is working on getting the remaining unpaid mem-
bers up to date.
Post 2018 has 48 Members on the roster, 56 in the Ladies
Auxiliary, 29 AMVETS Riders and 19 Sons of Amvets.
Programs
Post 001 is planning a Veterans Resource pamphlet for
veterans in their community. They also publish a Quarterly
Newsletter and reach out to members in need.
Post 021 veteran support activities incudes but is not
limited to: lawn mowing, military funerals, the Flags over
Athens program, an Annual Horse, Pony and Mule Show
fundraiser, driving veterans to medical appointments,
working at the Athens Veterans Museum and fundraising
for the Post.
Post 023 has a Rattlesnake Rodeo fundraiser each year and
honors a Police Officer of the Year from the surrounding
communities. There is a Spring fundraiser is held each
year. Post 2018 has logged 1,165 service hours resulting
in a total program value of $60,170 during the five-month
period from January 1st through June 10th, which includes
$10,000 from the Riders Chapter.
Service
Post 23 members do volunteer work at the Veterans Me-
morial Scenic Overlook though out the year and continue
to work on the placement of a handicap access ramp at the
site. The Post takes part in an ROTC Awards program for
local schools. On Memorial Day flags were placed at over
700 graves in the local area.
Post 2018 does monthly visits and programs are conducted
at the William F. Green V A Hospital. Post members volun-
teer weekly to help a non-profit Veterans Indoor Yard sale
to raise funds for 501c19 Veterans organizations. Bi-week-
ly maintenance is provided for a neighborhood commons
area partially owned by Veterans. The Post has been meet-
ing with a local Boys Scout troop to assist them with a new
charter to be sponsored by AMVETS Post 2018. A Memo-
rial Day Celebration and shrimp boil was held on 5/30/22
with over fifty people attending.
Upcoming Events
Due to COVID restrictions Post 001 does not have any
in person events scheduled. However, Zoom membership
meetings are scheduled.
Post 021 holds a veteran’s breakfast on the second Satur-
day of each month, participates in the Flags over Athens on
Memorial Day, 4th of July and Veteran’s Day. Fundraising
and membership drives occur at the Post every Friday. The
Themed Dinners, Karaoke Night and the Speaker Series
have resumed.
Post 2018 will hold Bingo every week on Thursday nights.
Fish fry’s will be held each Friday night. Monthly visits
to the W. F. Green Veteran’s Hospital will continue. The
annual Veteran’s Day Parade will be held in Elberta and
flags will be placed on Veteran’s graves. The Post will
participate in the Town’s Thanksgiving Dinner and provide
gift cards to Veteran families in need.
Post 023 has a monthly meeting every 2nd Thursday and
a Quarterly newsletter is sent to the membership. A Veter-
an’s Day Pancake Breakfast will be held at the Opp Senior
Center.
Legislative
Information concerning Congressional Legislation of inter-
est to Veterans is being communicated to the Membership.
Other
Uknown
13
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Document page 15: Department of Georgia National District III
Report of Lucius Brandon, NEC
Department of Georgia National District III
Membership
Department of Georgia membership is off to a good start.
The Department of Georgia has seen its membership
increase since the COVID phase has passed. Since October
1, 2022, Georgia has recruited or renewed 166 members
to our membership count. Georgia is growing its member-
ship through the free membership program available to all
women Veterans using grant money made available to the
National Women’s Veterans Council.
Though we are making gains, we are still well short of our
membership count from 2022. Department First Vice Com-
mander Banks has asked each post to have a membership
drive before the end of this reporting period. Department
Commander Milton Allen has tasked all AMVETS mem-
bers to recruit at least one new member so that the Depart-
ment of Georgia would have more than 2,000 members by
June 2023.
At our September SEC meeting, the Department First Vice
Commander had a workshop to re-train or teach all First
Vice Commanders about the membership program and
online system. National Riders Chaplain Jeremiah Botkins
and Department President Kevin Ashe have been actively
pursuing new Riders and Supporters membership so they
can form another Chapter. Commander Milton Allen is
continuing his recruiting efforts and encouraging Posts to
increase or start a Sons Squadron at their post.
Programs
Department Second Vice Commander Wanda Allen held a
workshop during September SEC for all Post Command-
ers and Second Vice Commanders to inform them of the
changes to Programs reporting online. Currently, we have
86% of our Posts reported in this Program reporting period.
And with Veterans Day, we expect to have all Posts report-
ing by the end of November.
Veterans Day proved to be a huge opportunity to accom-
plish many program hours for the Department of Georgia.
Commander Milton Allen participated in Georgia’s 41stt
Annual Veterans Day Parade. Several other Posts held
Veterans Day ceremonies. And other Post members went
to visit Veterans that are in nursing homes or are unable to
leave their residences.
Legislative
The Department of Georgia is teaming up with NSO Bob-
by Rand to ensure Veterans know how to take advantage of
their benefits using the PACT Act and the listed presump-
tive. Also, NSO Bobby Rand is making sure our AMVETS
and their family members affected by the Camp Lejeune
water contamination are getting the proper advice before
entering into any agreements with lawyers to file lawsuits.
Other
The Department and Posts officers feels that the commu-
nication procedures with National is unacceptable. The
Department leadership feels that it is very difficult to reach
members of the national leadership. We are receiving
newsletters from the Communications department and spo-
radic communication from the Programs office.
We also believe that the National Headquarters needs to
re-evaluate the welcome message for the AMVETS general
number. The message should be more professional. If the
switchboard operator is overworked and can not handle all
the calls, maybe a second switchboard operator is needed.
Also, maybe directors and national leadership inform the
switchboard operator inform the switchboard operator that
they are in their office or not available to accept calls.
Service
The Department of Georgia Service Foundation is still in-
strumental in supporting Posts with funds to make their up-
coming events a success. The Service Foundation recently
approved a monetary allowance to make it possible for the
Department of Georgia to publish a website.
14
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Document page 16: Department of Kentucky National District III
Report of Alan Smith, NEC
Department of Kentucky National District III
National Commander McClain, National Officers, Members of the National Executive Committee and fellow AMVETS:
The AMVETS Department of Kentucky SEC meeting was held on September 10, 2022 at AMVETS Post # 75 Owens-
boro, KY . With 35 members present. All reports were given and adopted. Minutes of the last SEC, and Agenda were
adopted as printed in the News Paper. PNC Heun was recognized as being present. Ladies Auxiliary President addressed
the floor, if you want to start a new AMVETS Auxiliary let me know and I will be glad to help we have chartered 3 new
Auxiliaries in KY so far this year, also I can help if you want to start a JR’s at your post.
The Department IV Commander discussed not using TV lawyers for Camp Lejeune water claims; there were over 700
lawyers recognized to help with that. AMVETS was instrumental in getting all the major VSO’s together except the
American Legion who wanted to go it alone to get the Pact act passed, Commander wants a letter drafted and signed by
all KY post commanders to National HQ stating we want people working at National HQ every day we can never get in
touch with anyone about anything, and calls are never returned, computer system is of no use to us and coms are almost
nonexistent. PNC Heun addressed the floor, National has approved to get a new computer system up to $500,000, but
you can’t just buy one off the shelf, it has to be custom designed and programmed for our specific needs and this takes
time.
There is a new phone system in place that updated from 250,000 phone calls a day to 1,000,000 phone calls a day to
make sure everyone that leaves a message gets their calls returned. Everyone AMVETS, Auxiliary, Sons, Jr’s and riders
will all be on one computer system, a push has come from all departments to have all AMVETS National employees
back to work full time. Department 2nd Vice Commander gave a report: make sure you get your program reports to me
so I can get them to National, you can count those who wear red shirts on Friday as 8 hours per person, events with other
VSO’s, VFW, AL etc. can count as program hours.
JEVCO report was given. We are working on a new veterans nursing home in Bowling Green KY .
NEC report was given and adopted
Finance report was given and adopted
Suicide prevention chairman gave report I can’t find or get anything from national, the latest information I could get was
from 2020 report adopted. Service officer west gave a report, no staff or medical personnel have died of covid at the
veterans nursing homes but 4 patients have, we can’t visit nursing homes in person now, but have meetings by email and
zoom. The hat was passed and $186.00 was collected for the ladies scholarship program
Son’s coordinator addressed the floor membership is down this year, we have done over $58,000 in programs value, we
are running a 50/50 raffle to be drawn at the state convention $20.00 a ticket with 3 chances to win, the KY son’s received
6 national awards this year, and department of the year 2 years in a row.
Service foundation, Convention corp, gave reports, reports adopted
Post commanders gave post reports all reports adopted
KY Post #125 donated $13,000 to flood victims
Unfinished business discussed hotels for state conventions motion made and 2nd to go to Erlanger KY Holiday Inn for
the next 2 years motion passed. New business the next KY SEC will be at AMVETS post 125 Somerset KY on January
14th at 12 noon.
Commander McLean, this concludes my report and I move for its adoption.
15
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Document page 17: Department of Louisiana National District III
Report of Gary L Stuart, NEC
Department of Louisiana National District III
Membership
As of Nov. 5 2022 the Department of Louisiana has 5 post
with a membership of 914 members, 878 life and 36 annu-
al members
Programs
The Department is at 50 % reporting ( some people want
to drive the train and blow the whistle but nobody wants
to shovel the coal). The three reporting post are reporting
102 volunteers donated 355 hours with a total value of
$25076.64. I think instead of moving forward with report-
ing we are moving backwards. The reporting that system
that we are using now is what we used before computers.
Service
Most post are getting ready for Veterans day with fish fries
and cook outs. Our Department service officer is actively
assisting veterans with issues from filing claims to appeals.
Upcoming Events
Our next SEC meeting will be in Springfield Louisiana in
February. Post 68 will be the host post. Dates will be sent
out at a later date. Chandler - White Post 7 in Alexandria
will be changing the name of their Post to Chandler -
White - Polk Dec. 10 and 11 to honor PNC Marion Polk.
Information on hotels will be sent out at a latter date.
16
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Document page 18: Department of South Carolina National District III
Report of Kenneth Colby, NEC
Department of South Carolina National District III
Membership
First Vice Commander reports the Department consists of
404 Annual Members and 921 Life Members for a total of
1325. The Department had a decrease of 58 Annual Mem-
bers and an increase of 10 Life Members. We have 281
open invoices.
Programs
Programs for the second quarter of 2022 reporting was at
100%. We logged 282 volunteers and 847 hours. Report
total was: $35,801.81. Noted programs categories included
Fund Raising, Americanism, JROTC/ROTC, Homeless
Veterans, Community Service, Membership Activity,
Patriotism Flag, Memorial Day Commemoration, Mili-
tary Funeral Honors, Sick and Hospitalized Veterans and
Scouting.
Service
We continue to promote AMVETS with community events
such as Memorial Day and Veterans Day. We support a
monthly Veterans breakfast where items and events of
interest can be shared.
Upcoming Events
We will have an AMVETS table set up at Doko Park in
Blythewood, SC on 12 November 2022 for the Annual
Veteran’s Day Recognition. Our next SEC Meeting will be
held at the VFW Post on Abbeyville, SC on 21 and 22 Jan.
2023. We will be participating in Wreaths Across America
at the Fort Jackson National Cemetery.
Legislative
We continue to advise members to follow National Legis-
lative Initiatives at AMVETS.org and to contact their local
legislators concerning support of Veterans issues.
Other
We continue to lose members due to death, loss of post
homes for meetings, poor participation and general lack of
enthusiasm. We continue to discuss these issues and possi-
ble solutions at our SEC Meetings. Data for this report was
compiled from various reports to the SEC.
17
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Document page 19: Department of Tennessee National District III
Report of Lee Ann Adames, NEC
Department of Tennessee National District III
Membership
Membership is up at all posts. The Dept. of TN currently
has 18 Posts totaling 2078 members. This includes 91 new
members since Aug. 1 (45 life members / 46 Annual mem-
bers). We continue to investigate new methods of recruit-
ment, with retention being the focus.
The average age of our current membership is 68, but
average age of our ‘new’ members is 57 stressing the need
to recruit and pay attention to the needs of our younger
members. Also of note is the ratio of female/male new
recruits into military service and the need to recruit women
veterans into AMVETS. Of our new TN AMVETS mem-
bers, 12 are women.
We are proud to announce the opening of our new AM-
VETS Post 325, in Murfreesboro, TN
The membership committee has spent the last few months
scrubbing the Member at Large (MAL) list, finding 173 of
the 679 MAL’s listed were deceased. We also recognized
that many of our veterans’ applications, made online, were
accepted without listings of their branch of service or
phone number.
Programs
Program tracking remains integral throughout our posts.
Awaiting the new ‘program reporting’ system, at National,
TN Posts are encouraged to submit program reports to the
Dept 2nd Vice, on a monthly basis. These individual Post
reports are then compiled and forwarded to National. As-
sistance is available, thru the Department, for Posts having
difficulty in the reporting process to facilitate and maintain
accurate State records.
Thru our Americanism Program, our posts distributed
37,649 pocket constitutions to 8th grade students through-
out 24 counties of TN. We hope to increase that number,
engaging students in more of our counties, next year.
4 TN students attended the Freedom Foundations, Spirit
of America Youth Leadership Conference, Nov 3-6, 2022
at Pigeon Forge. 3 of the students’ trips were funded by
the TN State Service Foundation. The 4th was funded by
AMVETS National Service Foundation.
All posts are encouraged to stress the relevance of Amer-
icanism to our students this coming year, distributing and
turning in Americanism Packets before the Spring S.E.C.
The Annual Dept of TN Golf Tournament, in Etowah, TN
was a huge success thanks to Post 100, the 20 teams who
participated and all who assisted with the coordination and
running of the event.
Service
Tennessee Posts remain active assisting veterans in need:
building ramps; assisting in home repairs; providing trans-
portation; procuring medical equipment; assisting in storm
and disaster relief efforts, as well as providing socialization
activities by visiting hospitals and nursing facilities.
With the approaching Holiday Seasons, our posts are ac-
tively addressing the nutritional needs of our less fortunate
veterans, preparing food baskets and gifts for these local
veterans.
Upcoming Events
Dept of TN Spring S.E.C. Meeting, Post 2, Oakridge, TN,
Feb 24-25, 2023 (Post 2 will be celebrating their 75th
Anniversary)
Dept of TN State Convention, Gatlinburg, TN. June 1-4,
2023
Legislative
Legislation has been proposed and recommended for the
state to place a Veterans Service Officer in every county.
We are awaiting approval and funding.
Other
26 delegates, from the Dept of TN were present at The
National convention, August 16 - 20.
We are proud to have received the National Awards for:
• Recruiter of the Year - Dwayne Kindle, Post 44
• Americanism – Post 389
• Technology – Dept of TN
18
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Document page 20: Department of Illinois (Continue) National District IV
Report of Chris Studebaker, NEC
Department of Illinois (Continue) National District IV
Membership
Amvets Department of Illinois’ membership was 9,397
members in 2020-2021. The department finished 2021-
2022 with 9,284 members. Furthermore, we offer a wide
variety of membership tools to gain attention and set us
apart from other department VSOs. We offer online capa-
bilities to join IL Amvets and our cutting-edge website sets
us apart from others. Illinois Amvets is constantly trying
to improve our coverage and remain at the forefront of
Illinois veterans’ organizations.
Programs
The AMVETS Department of Illinois reached 100% pro-
grams reporting for this past year. In addition, Illinois AM-
VETS volunteers continue to work to provide volunteer
events such as bingo, picnics, and the like. No program
data is available due to the reporting link being inoperable.
Service
The AMVETS Department of Illinois currently has 4 de-
partment VSOs located throughout the state. All VSOs are
working thoroughly and effectively to assist veterans and
their families proven by filing over 3,500 claims bring-
ing in over $52.5 million worth of benefits to the state of
Illinois just this recent calendar year (2021). Our service
officer program was 3rd in the nation in claims submitted
during the Covid stricken 2020 year. Our service officers
recently held a town hall meeting at the Bloomington VFW
post to inform veterans and family members about the
newly signed PACT Act and why it is so important to go
through a service officer and not the lawyers on T.V . plus
many more topics associated with this act and what infor-
mation is needed to either start their claim or get an old
claim resubmitted. We had a great turn out for this event
and are planning on having another one. We couldn’t be
prouder of our service officers, they are second to none.
Upcoming Events
The Department of Illinois held its annual school of in-
struction is September, over 100 members representing 55
posts were in attendance.
We held our workshops to talk about programs, member-
ship, service officers, public relations and many other top-
ics. We held our annual picnic at the VFW in Springfield
since our new headquarters does not have the room for it.
Our headquarters has also moved from its current location
to the building right next door. It is where Flag World is
currently located. The street address is 2206 South Sixth
Street Springfield, IL 62703
We are now getting ready for our Operation Red Sleigh
program with donations from individuals, posts, and the
Illinois Service foundation.
We supply veterans and active duty members with gifts
and a Christmas dinner. It has been a great program for
us every year and just keeps growing. Our winter SEC is
tentatively scheduled for February via Zoom.
Legislative
The new 102nd Illinois General Assembly had a very busy
Spring Session passing major veterans related legislation.
A list of highlighted legislation is listed below. We plan on
doing a joint legislative day in the spring 2023 to impact
our legislatures and put forth many vet specific legislative
items we would like updated or introduced. If you have
any questions referring to any vet related Illinois legis-
lation please call or email our Legislative Director Keith
Wetherell at 1-800-638-8387 or keith@ilamvets.org.
Communications/PRO
We have a full-time communications director at Illinois
Amvets State Headquarters. Ashley Murphy oversees all
IL Amvets PR, social media, and communications. If you
want something shared, disseminated, or to be noticed in
Illinois call or email Ashley at 217-528-4713 or ashley@
ilamvets.org.
Illinois AMVETS 2021-2022 Legislation Highlights
HB0020 Passed for Gold Star Family members to have
their own license plate. HB1290 Now adds Honorable
Discharge, Honorably discharge, Other than Honorable
Conditions, and General under Honorable conditions.
HB1915 Now adds the Folds of Honor special plates.
19
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Document page 21: Department of Illinois National District IV
Report of Chris Studebaker, NEC
Department of Illinois National District IV
HB2770 Veterans preference for State Procurement
HB2776 Homeless Prevention which amends the eviction
code HB3255 Veterans Service Officers and supervisors
must be Honorably discharged HB3515 V AC can serve
more than one county but must have at least one delegate
from that county HB3865 The lawyers seeking clients for
class action must disclose that there is a cost for filing a
claim SB505 Illinois National Guard will no be entitled
have the State flag given to next of kin upon death
SB1533 A Vet with at least 10% disability may trap with-
out a license.
Any questions please contact our State Headquarters at
217-528-4713.
20
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Document page 22: Department of Indiana National District IV
Report of Richard Caldwell, NEC
Department of Indiana National District IV
Membership
Held V A Artistic Arts mask-making session as another
therapy for PTSD Still working on two new posts to add by
1st of year.
Programs
Attended numerous Veterans Day activities across the
state. Participated in a parade in Indianapolis.
Service
Our 4 DSO’s have submitted over 600 claims pending
since our 4th District meeting in Indianapolis.
Upcoming Events
Delivering turkey meals to shut-in veterans. Visiting
veterans in Nursing homes to hand out Christmas cards to
veterans in facility.
Legislative
Planning for next Legislative Day in Indianapolis at our
State Capitol for veterans to meet their State Representa-
tives We will have a vendor table.
Other
We held our make-up CBL’s training in Indianapolis. Two
posts are still pending completion.
21
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Document page 23: Department of Iowa National District IV
Report of Barry Remington, NEC
Department of Iowa National District IV
Membership
Surprisingly the membership in Iowa has grown over the
pst year. The reason behind this is probably due to veterans
realizing that they need to join a VSO because of the situa-
tion on the Hill. Also, the word about AMVETS is starting
to get out due to the activities that we as a VSO are doing
to get the media’s attention.
Programs
Post 49 in Cedar Falls has ramped up activities for the year.
The most interesting has been 6 Vietnam veterans partici-
pated in a program with the UNI ROTC unit. Several of the
cadets are now participating at our monthly meetings, and
in the. We also were invited to their training session on the
history of the Vietnam War. It was a very exciting meeting
with cadets and they were highly interested in hearing our
perceptive and feelings about that war
Service
There were several activities within the Department cele-
brating Veterans Day. Many of our posts conducted pro-
grams honoring veterans.
Upcoming Events
We will be having our next SEC meeting in January and
our Department Convention will be held at the Waverly
AMVETS the first weekend in June.
Legislative
Our legislature does not go into session until January 2023.
However, the Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs has
several items that are going to be brought up to the legislat
ure concerning veterans benefits
22
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Document page 24: Department of Missouri (Continue) National District IV
Report of Robert E. Lee, NEC
Department of Missouri (Continue) National District IV
23
Membership
1. The Department of Missouri currently has 29 active
posts with a total of 2928 current members (357 annual
and 2571 life members).
2. The Commanders and 1st Vice Commanders of Mem-
bership at the Posts are encouraged to work on pursuing
annual renewals for the 876 members that expired on
8/31/2022 and the 307 members whose membership ex-
pired on 8/31/2021. These additional 1183 Veterans would
bring membership up to 4111! For a secondary project,
these members will be contacted to encourage re-joining
the organization.
3. There are opportunities in areas within the Department
to establish posts that are being evaluated and considered.
Programs
1. Total programs for the 2021 calendar year were as
follows: 8,849 volunteers that performed 41,987 hours in
services that covered 420,647 miles. These services were
valued at $1,598,612.91!!
2. For the last reporting period which ended on June 30,
2022, there were 30 out of 30 posts (100%) that reported
via the paper programs reporting form on account of the
online access being down for upgrades. These reports
included 3520 volunteers who performed 18,689 hours in
services that covered 118,893 miles. These services were
valued at $590,305.92.
3. Programs reporting via the PDF forms are slowly
trickling in for the reporting period which started on July
1, 2022. To date, 3 of the 29 posts have submitted at
least 1 program. There have been many great programs
and events that need to get reported. Near the end of the
reporting period, all programs reporting forms will be sub-
mitted via email to National as a Department package.
Service
1. The Department of Missouri has 3 Service Officers in
the St. Louis area to assist with Veterans and V A claims.
The Department is currently seeking a replacement for
the Service Officer lost in the Kansas City area along with
filling the positions in Columbia and Poplar Bluff.
The Service Foundation is looking to also add a Service
Officer in the Springfield/Willard area. There is a candi-
date for the Columbia V A but finalizing is dependent on the
current COVID-19 Pandemic. A part-time service officer
is being trained for placement into the City Hall in O’Fal-
lon. The long-term plan is to have a Service Officer in
each of the 5 V A Hospitals in Missouri.
2. The Commander’s Project is to fundraise for AMVETS
National Convention which is scheduled to take place in
St. Charles, MO, in August 2025 and to grow membership
and posts in the KC area.
3. Ongoing projects continue to include military funerals,
homeless Veterans, supporting Veterans Hospitals and
homes, and supporting JROTC and ROTC programs.
Upcoming Events
1. Our upcoming SEC meetings will be held at the Inn at
Grand Glaize in Osage Beach on the following dates: Feb-
ruary 4-5, 2023, and April 15-16, 2023.
2. Our 78th Annual Dept. Convention will be held on June
3-4, 2023, at the Inn at Grand Glaize.
Legislative
1. Senate Bill 882 – EFFECTIVE DATE AUGUST 28,
2022: Sponsored by Senator Bill White (R-Joplin, MO)
with information released to the media on January 6, 2022.
On March 9, 2022, the Seniors, Families, Veterans, and
Military Affairs Committee voted to pass this bill.
This act modifies and establishes provisions relating to
military affairs, including Vietnam Veterans Day, Missouri
Orange Heart Medal, information of services of state agen-
cies for veterans, school choice for students of military
families, and professional licensing informational webpage
for members of the military.
a. VIETNAM VETERANS DAY (SECTION 9.085)
i. Currently, Vietnam Veterans Day in Missouri is celebrat-
ed on March 30th of each year. This act modifies the date
to March 29th of each year.
ii. This provision is identical to a provision in SCS/HB
2455 (2022).
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Document page 25: Department of Missouri (Continue) National District IV
Report of Robert E. Lee, NEC
Department of Missouri (Continue) National District IV
24
b. MISSOURI ORANGE HEART MEDAL (SECTION
41.589)
i. The Governor is authorized, upon recommendation of
the Adjutant General, to present the Missouri Orange Heart
Medal to individuals who were members of the Armed
Forces that served in the Vietnam Conflict and were subse-
quently affected by exposure to Agent Orange during their
military service. Not more than one Missouri Orange Heart
Medal shall be awarded or presented to any one person and
nor shall the Missouri Orange Heart Medal be awarded
to or retained by any person who separated from service
under dishonorable conditions. The Missouri Orange Heart
Medal may be presented to the surviving primary next of
kin in the event of death of any individual subsequent to
his or her service who would be entitled to the Missouri
Orange Heart Medal.
ii. This provision is identical to a provision in SCS/HB
2455 (2022).
c. INFORMATION OF SERVICES PROVIDED BY
STATE AGENCIES FOR VETERANS (SECTION 42.051)
i. Currently, every state agency is required to ensure that
any new or modified form used to collect data from indi-
viduals include questions to identify veterans and provide
information and assistance to any requesting veterans. This
act modifies the questions to include immediate family
members. Additionally, this act provides that the Gover-
nor may maintain a website consisting of the information
provided to veterans and immediate family members of
veterans from any state agency.
ii. This provision is identical to a provision in SCS/HB
2455 (2022).
d. SCHOOL CHOICE FOR MILITARY FAMILIES (SEC-
TION 167.020)
i. If the parent or legal guardian of a pupil is an active-du-
ty member of the Armed Forces of the United States, the
parent or legal guardian may register the pupil with the
school district and the school in the school district of the
parent’s or legal guardian’s choice if certain documenta-
tion is provided. Unless otherwise required by law, this act
shall not require a school district to provide transportation
services to a pupil registered in a school district chosen by
a parent or legal guardian if the pupil would not otherwise
be registered in the school district and school in the school
district according to current law.
ii. This provision is identical to a provision in SCS/HB
2455 (2022).
e. DIVISION OF PROFESSIONAL REGISTRATION
INFORMATIONAL WEBPAGE FOR MILITARY MEM-
BERS (SECTION 324.001)
i. This act requires that the Division of Professional
Registration shall maintain an easily accessible webpage
containing the Division’s rules, regulations, and procedures
related to the professional licensing of members of the
Armed Forces of the United States, honorably discharged
veterans, and spouses of such members or veterans.
ii. This provision is identical to a provision in SCS/HB
2455 (2022).
*There are no amendments to this bill.
Senate Bill 941 – EFFECTIVE AUGUST 28, 2022: Spon-
sored by Angela Mosley (D - District 13 – Part of St. Louis
County). On March 2, 2022, hearing conducted by the S
Seniors, Families, Veterans, & Military Affairs Committee.
1. This act provides that state employees in support care
assistance positions for Missouri veterans’ homes shall
receive a wage in the amount of at least $15 per hour and
no more than $22 per hour. The wage shall be effective on
January 1, 2022, with an annual increase or decrease based
on inflation every following year. ***There are no amend-
ments to this bill.
Senate Bill 1013 – EFFECTIVE AUGUST 28, 2022:
Sponsored by Senator Stephen Roberts (D – District 5 –
Part of St. Louis City). On April 6, 2022, SCS voted “Do
Pass” S Seniors, Families, Veterans, & Military Affairs
Committee (4958S.02C).
This act modifies provisions relating to job training pro-
grams, including the Show-Me Heroes Program and Mis-
souri One Start Program.
SHOW-ME HEROES PROGRAM (SECTION 620.515):
This act provides that the Department of Higher Education
and Workforce Development may award grants from the
Show-Me Heroes Program or a program administering the
Show-Me Heroes Program to one or more non-profit or-
ganizations that facilitate the participation of veterans and
active-duty United States military personnel transitioning
to civilian employment in apprenticeship training pro-
grams, as described in the act. The grant shall be used only
to recruit or assist veterans or active-duty United States
military personnel transitioning into civilian employment
to participate in an apprenticeship training program in this
state.
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Document page 26: Department of Missouri National District IV
Report of Robert E. Lee, NEC
Department of Missouri National District IV
25
This provision is identical to a provision in the truly agreed
to and finally passed SS/HB 2400 (2022) and in SCS/HB
2455 (2022). *There are no amendments to this bill.
1. Senate Concurrent Resolution (SCR) 28 – EFFECTIVE
MAY 3, 2022: Sponsored by Senator Bill White (R – Dis-
trict 32 – Dade, Jasper, and Newton Counties). On May
3, 2022, the Rules, Joint Rules, Resolutions, and Ethics
Committee voted to adopt.
This concurrent resolution urges the President of the Unit-
ed States to designate a state funeral for the last surviving
Medal of Honor recipient from World War II.
This concurrent resolution is identical to HCR 58 (2022).
*There are no amendments to this resolution.
1. Senate Concurrent Resolution (SCR) 28 – EFFECTIVE
MAY 13, 2022: Sponsored by Senator Bill White (R –
District 32 – Dade, Jasper, and Newton Counties). On
May 13, 2022, the Rules, Joint Rules, Resolutions, and
Ethics Committee voted to adopt.
This concurrent resolution calls on the United States Con-
gress to enact legislation allowing for the inclusion of the
Newtonia Battlefields in the National Park Service through
the expansion of Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield in
order to preserve the history of the Civil War.
*There are not amendments for this resolution.
Senate Joint Resolution (SJR) 35 – EFFECTIVE UPON
VOTER APPROV AL: Sponsored by Senator Bill Eigel
(R – District 23 – Part of St. Charles County). On January
26, 2022, voted “Do Pass” S Seniors, Families, Veterans, &
Military Affairs Committee.
This proposed constitutional amendment, if approved by
the voters, creates the Department of the National Guard,
which shall consist of the Adjutant General and shall ad-
minister the militia and any programs relating to military
forces.
This amendment is identical to SCS/HJR 6 (2021) and is
similar to the truly agreed to and finally passed HJR 116
(2022), SJR 7 (2021), SJR 59 (2020), and HJR 103 (2020).
*There are no amendments for this resolution.
1. As of December 2021, there is a proposed resolution to
the Missouri Constitution (submitted by Sen. Tony Luetke-
meyer and Rep. Ashley Aune) for property tax exemptions
for veterans with total service-related disabilities. Should
it pass the legislature (session began January 5, 2022) and
make it to the ballot, the question would appear as this:
“Shall the Missouri Constitution be amended to exempt
veterans of the Armed Forces with a total service-connect-
ed disability from property tax on the veteran’s real prop-
erty?”
Communications/PRO
There are many projects, programs, and events being con-
ducted at posts across the state. Please follow AMVETS
Department of Missouri on Facebook along with AMVETS
posts across the Department.
Other
None Unknown
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Document page 27: Department of Ohio (Continue) National District IV
Report of Sandy J. Vorhies, NEC
Department of Ohio (Continue) National District IV
Membership
Our Posts are having more activities and are being able to
visit our veterans that are in the hospital and homes (there
are protocols that must be taken before visiting)
We were provided Active Shooter Training on Saturday
morning by the Columbus Ohio Police Department. This
was a very good training and provided us with much useful
ideas on how to react and think about before, during and
after an active shooter incident. The Ohio Women’s Com-
mittee is planning to come together at each of our Depart-
ment District in order to be able reach out further within
our communities to reach the women veterans.
Programs
Ohio AMVETS Charities is a 501c3 organization and has
been in existence since 2016. It is the charitable arm of
the AMVETS Department of Ohio. The Charities Board
has provided much needed assistance to our AMVETS
Posts and continue to do wonderful work. 1 Is To Many
AMVETS Department of Ohio is committed to bring the
number of veteran suicides down to zero by addressing
the underlying issues that cause it. 1 Is Too Many will be
working with at risk veterans who are dealing with issues
like opioid/drug abuse, PTSD, other mental health condi-
tions, financial issues, legal issues, convictions and more.
What 1 Is Too Many does and will continue to do is help
veterans who are in crisis mode, who need a helping hand,
and who don’t know what resources are available to them.
Most importantly, this program will put them directly in
contact with other veterans who have “been there, done
that” and have dealt with some of the same issues. We
will be the ones who will help them get through their
low points. This program will also bring veterans togeth-
er through AMVETS to do activities to help bring that
camaraderie back that some veterans may be missing. The
sounds, smells, sights, and feelings of war are something
that veterans know all too well and will never forget. Be-
cause of that reason, we all came back a little different than
before we went over. Many times, veterans cannot come
home and talk freely to our families and friends about what
we’ve went through while deployed. The burden of war
sometimes causes us to withdraw from friends and family.
Service
AMVETS Department of Ohio Service Officers are work-
ing diligently to serve all veterans that need assistance.
Currently the service officers are in Columbus, Chillicothe,
Cleveland, and Dayton. We are very proud of our Service
Officers.
(June through August 2022)
• Claims 418
• Contacts 1,442
• New Power Attorneys 333
• Retro Monies Recovered for Ohio $241,379.96
• Compensation Monies awarded in Ohio $133,969.39
Upcoming Events
Department of Ohio will be assisting the Veterans Homes
and our communities with holiday cards, food and personal
items the next couple of months.
Department Billiards Tournament will be held on February
18 & 19, 2023 at AMVETS Post 24 – 1016 Leo St., Day-
ton, OH 45404
Legislative
Ohio continues to support the legislative priorities. We
understand that staying active and reminding our legisla-
tors of what is needed will keep Veterans upfront and not
forgotten. Through writing and speaking to our legislators
through out the year is a must.
26
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Document page 28: Department of Ohio National District IV
Report of Sandy J. Vorhies, NEC
Department of Ohio National District IV
Other
Commander Sara Pierce project this year is the M.A.S.H.
(Military and Service Heroes) Food Pantry and Resource
Center based out of Marysville, OH. Founded by US Navy
veteran Amber Hudson, MASH is an Independent 501(c)3
nonprofit, homegrown organization that provides resources
to meet personal needs local veterans may have: (i.e. food
and hygiene items, support resources, vocational assis-
tance, and more).
There are currently two locations, Grove City and Del-
aware, with another on the way in Wooster. The Capital
University and The Ohio State University Social Work
Intern Program is currently assisting M.A.S.H. with the de-
velopment of a PEER Support Program to address mental
health and substance abuse diagnosis.
Their MISSION is: “M.A.S.H. provides crucial support
and resources along with a variety of programs for our
American Veterans, Military families, and Survivors
throughout Ohio. Our goal is to always honor and respect
those who keep us safe and free.” Please visit www.mash-
pantry.org for more information.
27
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Document page 29: Department of North Dakota National District V
Report of Murray Strom, NEC
Department of North Dakota National District V
Membership
We are still working on getting tablecloths for all posts to
help with recruiting efforts.
Programs
North Dakota will have ROTC, Americanism, Triple
Crown Wrestling, and Pocket Constitution for all 8th grad-
ers in ND schools. ND sent two students and two chap-
erones to Freedom Foundation and would love to tell the
story from there point of view.
Service
We will be preforming flag retirements, Honor Guards,
Color Guard, and Gold Star Family Recognitions.
Upcoming Events
We are having a spring SEC in February 2023 and ACOV A
is scheduled for DEC 1-2, 2022
Legislative
We are working with the legislature to change law to allow
50%of taxes collected from Veteran sponsored gaming to
go to Post War Trust Fund to fund Veteran programs.
Other
Fargo is working on a Fisher House for the V A Hospital.
They are moving to top of list.
28
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Document page 30: Department of Kansas National District V
Report of Wait Mary, NEC
Department of Kansas National District V
Membership
We keep putting out the good word about what AMVETS
can do for veterans. We call prospects and new members
Programs
Donations Christmas wreaths at veteran cemeteries ;
preparing for veterans parade with participation in local
parades
Service
Clean up post yards, improving landscapes. Efforts with
the goal of increasing interest in AMVETS. Keeping in
touch and visiting Ill veterans. Meals provided for veteran
families
Upcoming Events
Christmas party for members; trip to visit our historic fort
dodge asap that is still losing veterans to covid complica-
tions, downsizing from large post buildings to smaller less
expensive venues
Legislative
N/A
29
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Document page 31: Department of Nebraska National District V
Report of Carol Tschampl-Diesing, NEC
Department of Nebraska National District V
Membership
The free membership offer for new female members from
the National Women Veterans’ Committee has been a very
helpful recruitment tool for the Department of Nebraska,
resulting in several individuals taking advantage of this
offer and joining since this fall.
Programs
The Department of Nebraska is preparing for the upcoming
holiday season when we will present a Christmas card con-
taining a gift of $1 to every veteran in each of the Nebraska
veterans’ homes and hospitals throughout the state.
Service
Our V A VS representatives continue to serve in our
Nebraska veterans’ hospitals on a regular basis.
Upcoming Events
The Department of Nebraska recently held our fall SEC
meeting where fundraiser challenge coins were revealed.
Funds raised by the sale of these beautiful coins will be
used for the maintenance costs of the carillon bell tower
being built in the new Omaha National Cemetery. This
fundraiser will be an ongoing event. Coins cost $10 each.
To purchase coins, contact Deb Wehrli at coldwarvet81@
yahoo. com
30
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Document page 32: Department of Texas National District V
Report of Sarah Langley, NEC
Department of Texas National District V
Membership
WE ARE STILL WORKING TO IMPROVE OUR
GROWTH USING SEVERAL OUR POST ARE HA VING
MEMBERSHIP DRIVES.
Programs
We are making efforts to make sure that all posts are get-
ting their reports in on time.
Service
All V A VS are working hard to meet the needs of all the
veterans when we can get into the hospital.
Upcoming Events
We have an upcoming visit to Mineral Wells on Veterans
Day. We will deliver baskets for Thanksgiving and
Christmas.
Legislative
Working on legislation to help veterans.
Other
We are reaching out to each other using technology.
31
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Document page 33: Department of Alaska National District VI
Report of Don Oliver, NEC
Department of Alaska National District VI
Membership
We try to do what National instructs us to do.
Programs
Nothing has been turned into my email account or the De-
partment Executive Director to forward to me
Service
See answer to Programs
Upcoming Events
Veterans Day, Women’s Veterans Day, Thanksgiving,
Christmas and New Years
Legislative
None
Other
None
32
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Document page 34: Department of California (Continue) National District VI
Report of Ronald E Robinson Jr., NEC
Department of California (Continue) National District VI
TOTAL MEMBERS- 7661
ANNUALS- 527
LIFE MEMBERS- 7134
Thus far I have completed 1st Vice Training at a Northern
Area meeting in Eureka Ca on September 17, 2022. There
were approximately 15 AMVETS members present. I will
be conducting 1st Vice Virtual Training on October 22,
2022. I am waiting on a date for the Central Area meeting
to conduct 1st Vice Training. During the Recent October
DEC conducted 1st Vice Training as well. In the com-
ing months multiple Posts will be conducting their own
membership booths which I will attend as assist as many
as I can. Quarterly 1st Vice ZOOM training/roundtable.
This year I am trying to implement virtual training. Our 1st
training session was cancelled due to conflicting meetings.
We have rectified that issue and will be able to have the
meetings on the following dates: December 8, 2022, March
9, 2023, May 11, 2023. This will be a way for the Depart-
ment of California to better engage and have open dialogue
with our Posts regarding 1st Vice matters and best practices
to obtain membership.
Jeff Lukens
1st Vice
Membership
Programs
Suicide Awareness
California AMVETS continue to push out Suicide Aware-
ness throughout the communities within the state. The
reporting system within the department is at all-time 100%
which is outstanding. AMVETS ONE: Leaving No Veteran
Behind providing Healing, Hope and Honor. AMVETS
ONE was designed to engage members from all Veteran
service organizations--not just AMVETS--and the com-
munity at large in reducing stigma and highlighting local
resources to prevent Veteran suicides through the use of
earned media.
We are the dedicated members of AMVETS Department of
California who actualized this idea and witnessed firsthand
the success of AMVETS ONE’s inaugural tour across
America in May 2023.
Thanks to overwhelming community support for this
awareness and advocacy effort, we recognize that we have
an opportunity to build on the momentum of the AMVETS
ONE tour and solidify our position at the “tip of the spear”
to better serve those who served. We can do more than
build awareness; we can proactively save lives. Therefore,
in response to a successful mission, AMVETS ONE will
travel across America once more in May 2023 with a 6-city
tour from Sacramento California to Washington DC.
AMVETS ONE Tour Across America https://youtu.be/
og7BZMsz3zg
ROTC/YOUTH ACTIVITIES REPORT: Contrary to a
rumor, there is a budget for ROTC/JROTC AMVETS
Award (Medal, ribbon, and certificate). As the school year
has started, I expect to be receiving communications from
schools concerning awards and event support. I have cur-
rently received a request for award support of a JROTC Air
Rifle Match. Our support is not only vital to their programs
but a great way for us as AMVETS to put our name out
to them, and the communities they live in. Once again, I
remind you that the instructors are all retired military, and
membership eligible.
John Byrum PDC
Chairman Youth Activities
VAV S
For months of July, August and September 2022. Our
reporting numbers have been the same.
$5,700.00 Activity Cost Miles: 1164 Cost: $5,820.00
Total: $11,520.00
Community in Venice California have volunteering: 12
hours Sept 10, 2022 Car show. Traveled 10 miles total.
Ray Delgado, Post 2 Commander, PDC, Pass President
AMVETS Foundation
Service
The State of California is still watching the issues evolv-
ing around COVID and the start of increase cases of New
Variants that is being reported by the National CDC. But
at this time, the COVID Protocol has been reduced, except
for such areas as Hospital, Medical Offices and Laborato-
ries, which still required masks.
33
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Document page 35: Department of California National District VI
Report of Ronald E Robinson Jr., NEC
Department of California National District VI
However, up and down the state of California are prepared,
at any time, to bring back the mask as well. Several com-
munities up/down the state is allowing the business owners
to still have the final decision on having the customers
wearing or not wearing a mask to enter their establish-
ments. AMVETS Department of California members are
still moving forward and still trying to make a difference
within the state:
The Department of California Podcast Production (in
2022) is still strong and gaining momentum, with an
increase in viewers each month. Each Podcast has special
guests, discussing various subject matters that will be of
interest to the viewers, regarding V A Benefits, local service
programs, AMVETS issues and concerns, to Vocational/
Tech Training & College programs. The Podcast is super-
vised by Heidi Holguin, Department Social Media Coordi-
nator.
Department of California is still very active in various
projects and services up & down the state with V A Pro-
grams being supported by AMVETS, CA-AMVETS
support & partnering with MLB Minor League programs,
various collaboration’s groups, along with many veteran
organizations and non-veteran entities to assist throughout
our communities, including participating with JROTC
and ROTC programs, Veterans Stand-Down & Women
Veterans Stand-Up events. The Northern and Central area
Honor Guard Units are very active in participating with
Veterans Funeral Services, Honoring the Fallen Hero’s, and
their families. Also, the Honor Guards are very active in
specail Veteran Events/Function up and down the state.
Department Committees are to be active as much as possi-
ble for the benefit of the Veterans, their families or for our
communities, especially:
• Suicide Awareness
• Legislative (State & National)
• Scholarships
• Homeless Veterans Assistance
• Women Veterans
• Community Service
• ROTC
• Americanism
The Department is working to get back on track to reval-
idate Posts to have them become active once again, along
with AMVET members who has become MAL members,
back to being in “Good Standing”. Time will tell!
Smokey Rickerd, Executive Director
AMVETS Department of California
Legislative
The End of Legislative Session 2021-2022 was September
30. Reeb Government Relation has been working on behalf
of the AMVETS with the California Legislature to help
improve the quality of life for Veterans and their families.
During the 2022 legislative year, we worked on and mon-
itored 90 military and veteran bills. A total of24 of those
bills were sent to the Governor, who has until Sep 30 to act
on all Legislation.
Before we get started, I wanted to note that on August 10
President Biden passed a comprehensive $1.5 billion feder-
al piece of legislation on presumptive toxic exposures. So,
this will make it easier for all generations of veterans to re-
ceive care and benefits from the BA on tocsin issues. Seth’s
report says to include only those bills that were signed as
it would be a 14-page legislative report if we listed all the
bills that did not pass.
During the pandemic, the work, usually done by me in
members visiting the capital offices has been relegated
solely to Reeb Government Relations during the pandem-
ic, as access to visit members has been denied previously
and severely limited since the pandemic started. Special
thanks to Seth and Dana for representing the state capital in
making a full-on representation and for 1 million calls and
emails to the legislature to support our bills. Have a great
DEC it will be great to see all of you.
Please take special note if you have recently been ill,
I hope you will test yourself before sitting in closed &
tightly seated sessions, out in public and I would ask that
you all mask up and observe the hand sanitizers as you go
in and out of the convention rooms. Yes, alcohol kills 99
point % of germs, and it dries our hands out, so, bring &
use lotion to counteract that dryness.
May I suggest you also Cover your coughs and, please
use hand sanitizer, to protect those who are going through
cancer therapy among us? Thank You.
LORRAINE JUSTIN
State 3rd Vice Commander
34
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Document page 36: Department of New Mexico National District VI
Report of Steve Bird, NEC
Department of New Mexico National District VI
Membership
New Mexico has three new members.
Programs
Post 7 has delivered meals to a Veteran that needed food.
Helped put up flags at V A Hospital on 4th of July.one
member is on the Honor Guard for funerals. etc. Post 1944
helped with 911 ceremonies help with Veteran’s service
claim & Americanism Post 12 provided 5 Military honors
for Veterans at funerals, Provide assistance to Veterans
with water hauling & chopping wood. Visited Veterans in
Nursing Homes. Helped Veterans with applying for bene-
fits by completing forms, etc.
Service
Attended a ceremony at Berg Parkin Farmington, helped
get an increase in disability rating. Helped Gold Star Moth-
ers with Memorial Monument Dedication. Post 2017 Post
flags for all holidays & American Legion Chapter with
cleaning & resetting Veterans headstones at a cemetery
Upcoming Events
Post 7 will help with putting up flags at V A Hospital on the
11 Nov, will get gifts cards for Veterans for Christmas at
the Hospital & for the fisher House. will help with putting
sacks together for the patients at the V A for Christmas like
Christmas cards & canteen books, etc. Post 2017 will
Distribute gifts for Veterans for Veterans Day
Other
Post 12 sent their NEC report into National. Hope they got
it and hope the right person gets this.
35
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Document page 37: Department of Washington National District VI
Report of Steve Bird, NEC
Department of Washington National District VI
Membership
Membership drives and support of Posts remains minimal
due to residual effect on membership participation follow-
ing the Covid 19 pandemic.
Upcoming Events
Spring Department Executive Meeting
Programs
Ongoing support of the JROTC/ROTC Awards Program
Service
The service department has experienced a turnover of the
Director Position and the resignation of a VSO. A new
director appointment is pending. The department has re-
tained ability to continue claims processing. The AMVETS
Department of Washington Service Department currently
employs three service officers. Services are provided under
contract with the Washington State Department of Veter-
ans Affairs. Under this contract there are two performance
requirements that must be met, the claims approval rating
“batting average” and the cost per claims. This contract
arrangement serves Veterans through increased assistance
in evaluating and processing valid claims and it serves the
citizens of the State through increased revenues generated
when Veterans receive monetary benefits through success-
ful claims.
Other
The Department of WA. Fall DEC Meeting was success-
fully held at AMVETS Post 1, Tacoma WA. All business
meeting were held one day prior in person and via video
conferencing.
36
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Document page 38: National leaders & staff reports
NATIONAL LEADERS & STAFF REPORTS
NATIONAL LEADERS
National Commander Don McLean ..................................................................................... 38
National Auxiliary President Karin Simmons ..................................................................... 39
1st Vice Commander Bill Clark ............................................................................................. 40
2nd Vice Commander Horace Johnson ................................................................................ 41
3rd Vice Commander Paul Shipley ........................................................................................ 42
National Judge Advocate PNC Jim King ............................................................................... 47
National Chaplain Milton Allen ............................................................................................. 48
National V AVS Representative PNC JP Brown ..................................................................... 49
STAFF REPORTS
National Executive Director Joe Chenelly .............................................................................. 50
National Service Director Michael Black ................................................................................ 51
Chief Medical Executive Cherissa Jackson ............................................................................. 52
Acting Membership Director Carolyn Taylor-Harrison ....................................................... 53
National Programs Director Carol Hebert ............................................................................. 54
National Communications Officer Miles Migliara ................................................................ 56
37
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Document page 39: AMVETS National Commander
Report of Don Mclean, NEC
AMVETS National Commander
Fellow Amvets,
It is my hope that you and your families are remaining healthy as we enter the winter season.
These first few months as National Commander has been filled with multiple events, observances, and upheld traditions.
I’ve traveled across our great nation visiting many Posts and Departments and served as a representative outside of AM-
VETS events.
Early travels have taken me to Washington State, where I met with Department leaders and several posts. I visited Idaho,
and while I was unable to visit any of the four posts that stretch across The Gem State, I attended a Coast Guard reunion
with the intention of introducing my fellow Coasties to the organization and gaining new members. After meeting with
several veterans, I believe we did just that.
Other states I’ve visited include New York, where I attended an observance for the late Past National Commander (2001-
02) Joe Lipowski. We thank him for not only his service to our great nation, but to his fellow veterans as a leader of
AMVETS. I also traveled to Michigan, where AMVETS National Programs Director and Army veteran Carol Hebert was
honored on the Michigan Military & Veterans Hall of Honor. A long-time AMVET who has held numerous important roles
within the organization, Carol is well deserving of this honor and it was an honor to attend her induction ceremony.
I’m always proud to represent our organization in as many lights as possible. In September, I attended an observance held
at the Pentagon in honor of National Prisoner of War & Missing in Action (POW/MIA) Recognition Day. I believe that
an AMVETS presence at these events is non-negotiable for future National Commanders as we host Rolling to Remem-
ber. I met with U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin. This Veterans Day, I also went to Arlington National Cemetery’s
national observance, laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown alongside Ladies Auxiliary National President, Sons of
AMVETS National Commander, and AMVETS Riders’ National President. Prior to that, I attended a White House break-
fast and visited with U.S. Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh (a fellow Massachusetts native) and U.S. Secretary of Veterans
Affairs Denis McDonough. On Sunday of Veterans Day weekend I presented a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown in
association with the Spirit of Hope Foundation.
Lastly, I’ve traveled home to Massachusetts several times for the Department Executive Committee meeting, keeping in
close contact with Department and Post leaders in the state. I also participated in the National District I meeting in Con-
necticut. I’ve maintained routine contact with our District Commanders and my Vice Commanders.
This concludes my NEC report. I wish you all happy holidays and will do all I can to ensure a successful and impactful
2023. Thank you, and God bless American veterans.
38
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Document page 40: NATIONAL AUXILIARY PRESIDENT
Report of Karin Simmons, NEC
NATIONAL AUXILIARY PRESIDENT
Membership
AMVETS National Commander Mclean, National Officers, Past National Commanders, members and guests.
Welcome to the 2022 Fall NEC. I am honored to have been elected AMVETS National Ladies Auxiliary President. I
thank the many PNP Mentors that helped me as I climbed up the chairs. Their knowledge was invaluable.
My theme is Honor. Remember. Teach. Honor our active military – Remember our Veterans – Teach our children to Honor
and Remember.
My project is Fisher House Foundation – an organization helping Military and Veteran families for over 30 years. Fisher
Houses can provide 7 to 21 suites and accommodate 16 to 42 family members. They are professionally furnished and deco-
rated and feature a common kitchen, dining room and living room. Thanks to Fisher House over 430,000 families have
been served culminating in $547 million in savings for lodging and transportation costs. Fisher House Foundation has
several other major programs such as Hero Programs – donations of airline miles and hotel points to bring families to the
bedside of injured or ill service members; the Chairman’s Award which recognizes innovative programs for military and
veteran communities and a Scholarship program for children and spouses of military families.
I am looking forward to visiting Auxiliary Departments across the country. So far, I have attended the Fall Conference in
Michigan at the amazing Higgins Lake Lodge. I was also honored to be invited to attend the Veterans Day program at
Arlington Cemetery. It was raining, we were all soaked to the skin but we prevailed. National Commander Don McLean,
myself, National Son’s Commander Mick Ciesla, and National Riders First Vice Dan Macdonald presented a wreath at the
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. I was further honored to present the wreath at the 25th Anniversary of the Military Wom-
en’s Memorial (formally known as WIMSA).
Commander McLean, I wish you a successful
NEC and look forward to seeing you at the Spring NEC in March.
Karin Simmons – President
AMVETS National Ladies Auxiliary
39
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Document page 41: AMVETS NATIONAL 1ST VICE COMMANDER
Report of Bill Clark, NEC
AMVETS NATIONAL 1ST VICE COMMANDER
National Commander, National Officers, members of the National Executive Committee and AMVET members,
Thank you in advance for your continued support in my year as your 1st Vice Commander and I am pleased to present
my first report from that position. I attended two ceremonies as the presenter of employer of the year award to the North
Carolina Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, Governor’s Working Group and Employers Group individual award
to Mr. Rodney Woody, this award was newly created in 2020 and a North Carolinian has won 3 years running. On October
27th, I was the keynote speaker for the 11th annual Salute to Veterans sponsored by the Rockingham Hospice Facility.
On the 9th and 10th of November, I was at national headquarters meeting with the membership department and with the
National Commander. On November 11th we placed wreaths at the WWII, Vietnam, Korea and the Women’s Vietnam
Memorials. We face many challenges but, as always, recruiting new members is the biggest challenge we face, along with
keeping our annual members in the fold! Currently, we are at an annual renewal rate of 34.5 %. Last year closed at a
78.24%, losing 15 % of our annual members.
Our current membership is at 110,837 up from 108,902 in 2021-22 with 5% being female veterans. I will mention that the
Women’s Veteran’s Committee has received a $3,000.00 grant from National to be used for membership recruitment.
Based on current data Dept. of FL is in the top position at 2764 for renewals and also the top position for new annuals at
228. Great job Florida, keep up the excellent work. This year we have a membership drive at National that involves the
National Districts. The high recruiter of all six districts will receive round trip fare and four nights lodging at this year’s
National Convention in Pittsburgh, PA. Als, along with two tickets to both the Silver Helmet Banquet and the Command-
er’s Banquet.
The winning District will receive three nights stay at the National Convention (Wed., Thurs. & Fri.) and also two tickets
to both the Silver Helmet and Commander’s Banquet to use as they determine. A key point to any membership program
is communication. Meet, talk with, explain etc. what AMVETS is about and the service(s) we provide Country wide. The
gaining of new members is the responsibility of all AMVETS members. It is incumbent upon us to continually strive to
attract new members.
The image below shows the QR code that you simply point your smart phone camera at and it will bring you to a mem-
bership signup application. A hard copy of this is available from the membership department. Contact Warren Cox if you
would like a copy.
Commander this concludes my report and I move for its adoption at the proper time.
40
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Document page 42: AMVETS NATIONAL 2ND VICE COMMANDER
NEC Report of Horace Johnson, NEC
AMVETS NATIONAL 2ND VICE COMMANDER
41
National Commander McClain members of the NEC and distinguished guests,
First of all, I want to thank you for having faith in me enough to elect me as your National 2nd Vice Commander. As I
explained to you during the time, I was crusading to become 2nd Vice; I will do all that I can to improve our programs
reporting system. We are looking into what it will take to be able to restore that real-time reporting system and be able to
get credit for all that we do; it is a work in progress.
As we wind down to the end of the year, to date, we have 18 Departments that have not reported, for that list, see the
National Program Director’s report. Fellow AMVETS, I know the Program Reporting System needs upgrading, because,
in my opinion reporting what you do for others is one of the main reasons We/I joined this Service Organization; to help
fellow Veterans, their Families, and the Communities around us, so we must keep track of what we do to see how effective
we are being in what we promised to do; that is like a score card to keep us moving forward. Reported. I encourage you
to report whatever you do in order to keep our Organization leading the way in order to keep others wanting to be a part
of a Dutiful Organization like AMVETS. I realize some wait until the last minute to send in the reports but the earlier the
better. I also ask that the National District Commanders to please contact their states in their districts and remind them to
report their activities. Veterans Day I’m sure was celebrated in all states in some types of capacity, so don’t forget to report
those events.
The Freedoms Foundation, 3-6 November 2022, was successful, I planned on attending, I bought the tickets, rented my
car, then got sick, and refused to be around all those students, and Faculty sick. I was told that although they had a low
turnout; they were mighty and represented us well, all had a great time. Thank you to the Departments that sent their Stu-
dents, and to the National Service Foundation/AMVETS Charities for Sponsoring those students, we couldn’t have done
it without you. We encourage all states to send a representative from your state, The students get so much education out
of this program, and they form new bonds with student from other states and make everlasting friendships. Some students
have even come back as Chaperones. There is a program next year in October 5-8, 2023, we are encouraging any State
2nd Vice or Americanism officers to attend to give you a firsthand experience of what the 9th Grade students will be going
through in November. This is an AMVET program and as such the AMVETS should be more receptive to attending this
wonderful event. Applications will be sent out if you are interested or please contact the Programs Team and we will get
you the information.
V A Vs REP/Dep appointments for the states of A-M. which ended 31 July 2022 some states have still not been updated and
we are now in the process of reminding the N-Z states that they need to look at their REPs/DEPS to see if they need to be
updated. Even if it is the same individuals, we need the new forms with the current state Commanders Signature and this
year’s date. The States A-M forms need to be sent to National now, the States N-Z need to be sent in by 21 July 2023 but
the earlier the better so we can have them sent out to the V A locations by 31 July 2023.
Scholarships will be opening up in January which is for Veterans, Spouses of and Grandchildren of Veterans we encourage
those to apply. The Lowes Scholarship is also available to anyone that will be looking at going into the trades profession.
PDC Horace Johnson
AMVETS National 2nd Vice Commander
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NEC Report of Paul Shipley, NEC
AMVETS NATIONAL 3rd VICE COMMANDER (Continue)
42
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AMVETS NATIONAL 3rd VICE COMMANDER (Continue)
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The end of the 117th Congress…
And like that, another Congress is in the books for the AMVETS Legislative Team as of January 3rd, 2023. AMVETS has
a lot to be proud of over the past two years. Some of our favorite moments include:
• AMVETS hosting center stage at Rolling to Remember at the most pivotal moment for what ultimately became the
passage of the PACT Act
• AMVETS taking a firm stance alongside Senator Gillibrand for significant change in advocating for victims of Mili-
tary Sexual Trauma
• AMVETS remains the veteran organization that does not waiver in our commitment to lower and address the suicide
epidemic
• Commanders Jan Brown, and Greg Heun, proved their mettle as champions on Capitol Hill by providing powerful
testimonies. Proving AMVETS has a clear and intentional advocacy agenda for all of our Nation’s Veterans
AMVETS efforts focused on the passage of the PACT Act resulted in Commander Heun and Executive Director Joe
Chenelly standing in the East Room of the White House for the most significant signing ceremony in recent history. The
PACT Act will be a game-changer for veterans. And while AMVETS played a critical role in the PACT Act, they con-
tinued to take the lead, by being the loudest voice, on the issues that are most negatively affecting the highest number of
veterans, resulting in death and sexual trauma: mental health/suicide and military sexual trauma.
We are still working hard to get some bills across the finish line. However, we expect some movement of veteran-related
legislation in the lame-duck session and will provide an End of Congress report in the next NEC update.
What the election means for Veterans
All in all, a pretty dull election as it relates to the committees. No Senators on SV AC lost their seats. Only one member,
Elaine Luria, lost in the general election. For some perspective, 2010 resulted in all Democrats on HV AC other than 3
losing their seats (Corrine Brown, Mike Michaud, and Tim Walz). Major wave elections tend to disproportionately affect
HV AC as they have historically had a lot of freshman members that have tended toward swing districts and districts with a
high proportion of veterans.
In 2010, there was a net R gain of 63 seats in the house and 6 R seats in the Senate. This election doesn’t even begin to
approach that. Nonetheless, the Republicans will have what looks like a 3-4 seat, an extremely narrow majority, which will
still change things up significantly for HV AC.
Additionally, with the loss of Rep Elaine Luria, the lead Dem seat on DAMA is open. Also, we can expect a fair amount of
shake-up in membership of the committee regardless as most would not argue HV AC as a final destination committee of
choice, unfortunately… This will especially hold for rank-and-file members not offered leadership positions on HV AC via
their subcommittee.
With the House flipping to the Republicans, we anticipate they will be particularly interested in exploring suicide and
mental health. This issue saw insufficient attention in the 117th Congress as the Senate and House generally supported tra-
ditional mental healthcare expansion programs that have proven ineffective for the past two decades, with high costs and
an extraordinary lack of data supporting their outcomes.
We will provide another update once we get some sense of leadership selections/committee assignments at the beginning
of the new Congress.
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HV AC-Republicans
• Mike Bost IL-12
• Jack Bergman MI-01
• Jim Banks IN-03
• Chip Roy TX-21
• Tracey Mann KS-01
• Barry Moore AL-02
• Nancy Mace SC-01
Madison Cawthorn NC-11 (Was beat by Chuck Edwards in the primary, who also won the general election)
• Troy Nehls TX-22
• Matt Rosendale MT
• Mariannette Miller-Meeks IA-02
• Jake Ellzey TX-06
HV AC-Republicans
• Mark Takano CA-39
• Julia Brownley CA-26
Conor Lamb PA-17 **Lost Senate Primary Bid**
• Mike Levin CA-49
• Chris Pappas. NH-01
Elaine Luria V A-02 (Lost to Jen Kiggans, this district has historically had it’s freshman placed on HV AC (Glenn Nye,
Scott Taylor, Elaine Luria)
• Lauren Underwood IL-14
• Colin Allred TX-32
• Frank Mrvan IN-01
• Lois Frankel FL-21
• Elissa Slotkin MI-08
• David Trone MD-06
• Ruben Gallego AZ-03
• Raul Ruiz CA-25
• Marcy Kaptur OH-09
• Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick FL-20SV AC-Democrats
• Senator Patty Murray
• Richard Blumenthal
• Maggie HassanView this page in the flipbook
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SV AC-Republicans
Senator Jerry Moran
Senator John Boozman
Legislation that AMVETS has publicly supported in the 117th Congress:
Fiscal Year 2021 Congressional Budget Resolution—which includes COVID-19 relief funding for the
Department of Veterans Affairs (V A)
House of Representatives:
HR 303 Retired Pay Restoration Act
HR 475 Health Care Fairness for Military Families Act of 2021
HR 617 No Coronavirus Copays for Veterans Act
HR 781 Veterans’ Telecommunication Protection Act
HR 845 V A Billing Accountability Act
HR 958 Protecting Moms Who Served Act
HR 1022 PAWS Act
HR 1276 V A V ACCINE Act
HR 1281 To name the Department of Veterans Affairscommunity-based outpatient clinic in Gaylord, Michigan, as the
“Navy Corpsman Steve Andrews Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Clinic”.
HR 1282 The Major Richard Star Act
HR 1476 PFC Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program Act
HR 2326 Veterans Cyber Risk Awareness Act
HR 2591 DUMP Opioids Act
HR 2634 To designate the Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Facility Expansion of the Department of
Veterans Affairs Alvin C. York Medical Center in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, as the “Sergeant John Toombs Residential
Rehabilitation Treatment Facility”.
H.R. 2789 To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairsto administer a pilot program to employ veterans in positions that
relate to conservation and resource management activities.
HR 2800 The Wingman Act
HR 3512 Healthcare For Our Troops Act
HR 3888 CHIP IN for Veterans Act
HR 4471 Improving Veterans Access to Congressional Services Act
HR 4571 Supporting Expanded Review for Veterans in Combat Environments (SERVICE) Act
HR 4732 Protecting Benefits for Disabled Veterans Act of 2021
HR. 4824 The Stop Copay Overpay Act
HR 4831 Charitable Equity for Veterans Act
HR 4949 The Hello Girls Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2021
HR 5483 The Inform VETS Act
HR 5509 Student Veteran COVID-19 Protections of 2021
HR 5776 Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act
HR 5819 Autonomy for Disabled Veterans Act
HR 5901 Veterans Education is Timeless Act
HR 6227 Military Dependents School Meal Eligibility Act
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HR 6307 Tiny Homes for Homeless Veterans Act
HR 6464 Hear our Heroes Act of 2022
HR 6672 - VSO Support Act of 2022
HR 8081 the Wounded Warrior Bill of Rights Act
United States Senate:
S 189 Veterans’ Disability Compensation Automatic COLA Act
S 194 SERVE Act
S 344 Major Richard Star Act
S 458 Veterans Claim Transparency Act
S 1147 Retired Pay Restoration Act
S 1183 Veterans Medical Marijuana Safe Harbor Act
S 1467 V A Medicinal Cannabis Research Act
S 1520 Military Justice Improvement and Increasing Prevention Act
S 1607 Student Veterans Transparency and Protection Act of 2021
S 1875 Veterans Emergency Care Claims Parity Act
S 1915 ACE Veterans Act
S 1944 Vet Center Improvement Act of 2021
S 1972 Health Care Fairness for Military Families Act
S 2530 Charitable Equity for Veterans Act
S 3017 Veterans Dental Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act
S 3025 Servicemembers and Veterans Empowerment and Support Act of 2021
S 3047 Veterans Pro Bono Corps Act of 2021
S 3163 RURAL Exams Act
S 3388 Veterans Benefits Improvement Act of 2021
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Document page 48: AMVETS JUDGE ADVOCATE PNC
NEC Report of Jim King, NEC
AMVETS JUDGE ADVOCATE PNC
Commander McLean and NEC Members,
It has been a normal year for the office of National Judge Advocate thus far. I have answered many questions from the field
and approved one department’s bylaws.
I am going to ask each NEC to please inform your Department JAs That if they approve new or revised post CBLs they do
not need to submit them to me for my approval. Send them directly to the National Membership Department for filing. If
they have questions about bylaws, I am available to offer advice.
As before, if you need to contact me, my email address is jim1941@live.com and my cell phone number is 410 913 2780.
If I do not answer, leave a message and I will return your call. Please pass this information on to your departments and
posts. National headquarters frequently gets calls for someone trying to contact me.
Commander, this concludes my report and I move for its adoption at the proper time.
Jim King PNC
National Judge Advocate
AMVETS (American Veterans)
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Document page 49: AMVETS NATIONAL CHAPLAIN
NEC Report of Milton Allen, NEC
AMVETS NATIONAL CHAPLAIN
48
Membership
Membership drives and support of Posts remains minimal
due to residual effect on membership participation follow-
ing the Covid 19 pandemic.
Upcoming Events
In the upcoming months, I plan to organize a Zoom Round-
table for the Chaplains. A “ Meet and Greet” to share ideas
and challenges, and to promote a Chaplain’s Corps within
AMVETS.
Programs
Since my appointment in August this year I have begun to
construct a Chaplain’s Library, to aid our Chaplains and
members in the day to day roles in AMVETS.
Other
The Chief Communications Officer, Miles Migliara, and I
have been working together to create the Chaplain’s Corner
on the National Website. The webpage will archive all
Chaplain’s Library literature and documents. We are re-
searching the possibility of using the webpage as a means
of being more accessible to the members of AMVETS if
needed.
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Document page 50: AMVETS NATIONAL V A VS REPRESENTATIVE PNC
NEC Report of John P. Brown, III, NEC
AMVETS NATIONAL V A VS REPRESENTATIVE PNC
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National Commander, National Officers, members of the National Executive Committee, and Fellow AMVETS.
The V A VS will not be able to provide a report on the V olunteers, Hours, or the values at this time due to the reconstruction
to the V A V olunteer system, the shut down on the AMVETS Programs Reporting System, and the recovery of getting the
volunteers registration for the past two years.
In the essence of the two system being rebuilt to better calculate the much-needed information pertaining to our veteran’s
volunteer and the value that it serves, the Programs Department is also working on the recuperation of not having a stable
director within that time frame. Programs Department appreciate your patience as we will be working on getting all vol-
unteers appointments certified with their respective facilities. Programs need the help of the Department Commanders to
communicate any changes withing their facilities, such as a death or a volunteer change. This can be done by ensuring that
the proper forms for your Representative and your Deputy along with the Chief’s contact information is submitted.
Programs has a partial list the Reps/Deps, please check with National to ensure they are tracking your appointees. To
ensure that it is not an overload only the upper states A-M will be accepted and certified at this time. Forms for the lower
states N-Z will not be accepted until after July 31, 2023. Anyone who has not received an AMVETS cards, please email
National at programs@amvets.org , chebert@amvet.org and/or cetheredge@amvet.org.
I would personally like to thank Colondra for the hard work effort, she put in to making sure that the V oluntary Service
Program for ambush continues to be strong in the future. We will make it even better.
In conclusion, continue working with your Chief to complete your Annual Joint Review Reports (AJRs) so that your hours
are being tracked and showing that AMVETS is in the business of showing how much we cares. Keep up with the commu-
nication with your Caregivers, they may need assistance themselves.
Thank you for your time, talents and for showing our brothers and sisters at the V A that they are not forgotten and that
AMVETS still care!
Commander, this concludes my Report, and I request it be adopted.
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Document page 51: AMVETS NATIONAL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
NEC Staff Report of Joe Chenelly, NEC
AMVETS NATIONAL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
National Commander McLean, National Officers, members of the National Executive Committee and fellow AMVETS:
Y our AMVETS National Headquarters continues working hard to best serve you, all our members, and the entire AMVETS
Family.
The first quarter of this Membership year went quickly. Headquarters’ financial health is improving, as our new Finance
Department has regained full functionality. We hope every Departments’ (state) leaders have seen the positive changes in
the way membership refunds are paid.
Harry Neal retired after more than 10 years leading the national Membership Department. We thank him for his dedication
to the organization. Membership is running well, and a new department leader will be in place in early 2023. We are prepar-
ing for the restructured Life Membership plan’s implementation in September 2023.
Information Technology challenges persist, but we’ve made great strides in ensuring AMVETS’ operating systems and data-
bases are more secure and efficient than ever. HQ staff is preparing to move forward with a new database platform that will
stay within the existing budget and improve ease of use for vice commanders across the nation.
By the time we meet on December 3, I believe we will have secured an approved hotel for the March NEC meetings, which
are to include the AMVETS Legislative Advocacy Week and the Silver Helmet Gala. Also as discussed and approved at the
National Convention, the hotel will be large enough to hold for our events and house all attendees. It will also be closer
to Washington. The rooming rates will be higher than in past years. Inflation and the harm the pandemic restrictions and
shutdowns imposed on the hospitality industry are catching up with everyone trying to hold conferences or dinners.
In seeking a new location, we only considered properties offering enough meeting space and room rates under $200 per
night. The BWI Marriott, where we held the NECs the past several years, is too small to host our Spring NEC meetings,
given the Ladies Auxiliary and Sons of AMVETS also meet then. It also did not have a room large enough to hold the Silver
Helmet.
We at National Headquarters remain grateful for your guidance and leadership. Thank you!
I encourage you to read the reports from each NHQ and NSF department head. Please take the time to see how our Pro-
grams is modernizing and how our National Service Officers keep smashing records in what they are providing our fellow
veterans.
This concludes my report, and I move for its acceptance at the appropriate time.
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Document page 52: AMVETS NATIONAL SERVICES DIRECTOR
NEC Staff Report of Michael Black, NEC
AMVETS NATIONAL SERVICES DIRECTOR
September 2021 - December 2022
$729,554,918.00
Total Amount of Benefits paid out:
Total amount of claims open:
111,293
$1,639.00
ETERANS
Average payment per claim:
Appeals forwarded on to the CA VC (Court of Appeals
for Veterans Claims): 19
International Claims:
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different countries around the world
Life:
15
Annual:
17
Total:
42
NEW MEMBERS
PERSONNEL
In the last year we have seen a move from covid fear
to covid tolerance and acceptance. There have been
several spikes in cases but for the most part the Ser-
vice Department has been able to escape any serious
problems. Random V A closures have made the hybrid
work schedule able to continue with no major breaks
in service to our Veterans. Claims continue to rise at a
phenomenal rate. Camp Lejeune/Pact Act have added
substantially to this rate. Currently we have not hired
any new personnel since the last quarter. Unfortunately,
we have lost 5 NSO’s and I’m expecting more.
Most of these openings are a direct result of our current pay
scale. Two Retired, and three have left for other Veteran re-
lated government jobs.This is going to be a definite problem
in the coming year.
Resignation’s as of September 1, 2022
Fay Gonzales, Montgomery V ARO Alabama
Anthony Aragon, Phoenix V ARO Arizona
Nicholas Holt, St Petersburg V ARO Florida
Gene McCreight, Wichita V ARO Kansas
Heath Haug, Roanoke V ARO
Virginia
Positions Filled as of August 1, 2022
OUTREACH
AMVETS continues to follow tradition with reaching out to
our immediate community and our Veterans worldwide. Ser-
vice officers who are stationed in V A facilities and satellite
offices continue to contact and facilitate programs and care
to those veterans and their families who are in need. Many
of our NSO’s continue to go out to the community to serve
Veterans and their families on their own time and ours.
In summation, I and the National Service Officers would like
to thank you for all the support from the National Service
Foundation and the many state departments. Without this we
could not possibly assist the many thousands of veterans,
widows, and orphans in the United States and Overseas that
our officers now serve.
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Document page 53: AMVETS CHIEF MEDICAL EXECUTIVE
NEC Staff Report of Cherissa Jackson, NEC
AMVETS CHIEF MEDICAL EXECUTIVE
HEAL has been doing very well in 2022. We hosted a viewing of the “Unprescribed” Documentary in Kansas City, Mis-
souri on April 19th, 2022, at the PlexPod Westport Commons. There was a panel discussion with cannabis advocates and
legislators. This documentary brought awareness to veteran suicide and highlights the positive effects on veterans lives
everyday.
The HEAL Program hosted the Annual 2.2 Mile Run/Walk for Rolling to Remember on May 28th, 2022, in honor of
MIAs, POWs and Veterans we lost to suicide. The run was a success with over 100 attendants and over 5k engagements on
Facebook.
On June 27th, 2022, HEAL made history during a Healthcare Summit in Hawaii with PTSD awareness, suicide prevention,
and cannabis research being the forefront of the conversation. There has never been a cannabis event held at a V A center
in history. The event was located at the Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, HI. We received interest from leaders
across the country including Montel Williams and Dr. Sue Sisley who were our guest speakers.
HEAL also accompanied Steve Ellmore, the creator of the “Unprescribed” Documentary which shed light on alternative
medications available for veterans as well as the importance and effectiveness of cannabis on Veterans in June 2022.
HEAL calls are experiencing a steady rise in veteran assistance. We have served over 150 veterans in 2022; a 33% increase
from last years statistics and expected to increase another 20%. We are projecting up to 180 veterans assisted by the con-
clusion of this year. Below is a comparison of 2021 AND 2022 statistics for veteran interactions.
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***Representation of 100 cases in total for 2021 ***Representation of 150 cases in total for 2022
Additionally, we have been asked by SyncMD to host our annual R.O.S.E. event in South Carolina in April and May of
2022. We continue to have interest in our Suicide Prevention online training including the state of Virginia and other
participants. We encourage everyone to take the training. More to come.
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Document page 54: AMVETS ACTING MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR
NEC Staff Report of Carolyn Taylor-Harrison, NEC
AMVETS ACTING MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR
2023 Membership Renewals were emailed to the members who had email addresses, and those who didn’t they were
mailed via the postal service to the members. They were a little late this year going out. The 2023-24 year we will get
them mailed to the members earlier. They cannot go out too early because of certain criterias. We are working on making it
better for our members.
Membership Percentages:
Please see in the 1st Vice Commander’s report.
Our mission this year is to strive harder to educate our officers on how to enter and renew members. Work more with the
Departments/Post on how important it is to apply monies to the members records asap. National get lots of calls from
members who have paid their dues to the post and departments and the money have not yet been applied. And in a lot of
cases it never does. National will have to give the members in some cases their membership when the posts and depart-
ments hold on to their money. We have a lot of duplicate/triple members in the data base and in some cases some members
are in 5 times. The system doesn’t generate cards for those members. We have to correct it, make cards for those members
in house.
Our data base is full of members with Red xs, meaning there was no money applied to their record, The member cannot
log into the website to pay their dues ect. National will have to correct it.
Our goal for the 2023-24 - Membership year with the members’ cards is to have the cards sent to National Headquarters
and we will separate them and mail them to the perspective post/departments. And the post will mail them to the mem-
bers when their dues are paid. National have had to reprint cards (inhouse) that have already been printed by our printers.
To cut down the cost of cards and postage we believe this will be the better way. It was done in previous years with no
problems. Some post are giving the members their 2023 cards before they renew. That has created a lot of problems that
National have to correct.
Membership Contest:
Recruit 5 is ongoing. We welcome anyone to recruit members into your post. Use the Green for Green hats form. The Top
Recruiter will receive AMVETS Coins, and a one week trip for 2 to Carlsbad in California. One of three laptops.
We also have another contest that the 1Vice Commander of National explains in his report. Please read.
I am very grateful for the opportunity to serve in this position.
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Document page 55: AMVETS NATIONAL PROGRAM DIRECTOR (Continue)
NEC Staff Report of Carol Hebert, NEC
AMVETS NATIONAL PROGRAM DIRECTOR (Continue)
National Commander McClain members of the NEC and distinguished guests,
We held our quarterly zoom call with the 2nd Vices and anyone that reports programs. The information is sent out in our
monthly programs blasts which will be starting back again soon, the zoom call is open to anyone looking for information
or needs help with program reporting.
We will be holding our second zoom meeting a few days before the December NEC meeting. If anyone is not getting
our programs blast and would like to receive it contact us at programs@amvets.org and put BLAST in the Subject line or
contact us to see if we have your current email, people change emails and sometimes forget to update it with us.
As we wind down to the end of the year as of right now, we have 15 Departments that have not had any posts reporting
for their state which are;, Rhode Island, District of Columbia, Maryland, West Virginia, Alabama, Arkansas, Iowa, ,Mis-
souri, Kansas, Nebraska, Texas, Alaska, California ,Hawaii, Oregon. I realize some wait until the last minute to send in
the reports but the earlier the better. I ask that the National District Commanders to please contact their states in their
districts and remind them to report their activities. Veterans Day I’m sure was celebrated in all states in some types of
capacity, so don’t forget to report those events.
Thank you to the Departments that sent student to Freedoms Foundation, 3-6 November 2022 and to the National Service
Foundation/AMVETS Charities for Sponsoring those students, we couldn’t have done it without your help. We had a
small group of students, but they were mighty and represented us well, all had a great time. I encourage all states to send
a representative from your state, The students get so much education out of this program, and they form new bonds with
student from other states and make everlasting friendships. Some students have even come back as Chaperones.
We were lucky enough to have the Pennsylvania State Second Vice and The State Commander from North Dakota as
chaperones this year as well as Dr. Kissel from California, thank you very much for participating.
If you want to see what the program is like, volunteer to chaperone, once you see the program it will make you want to
come back. There is a program next year in October 5-8, 2023, we are encouraging any State 2nd Vice or Americanism
officers to attend to give you a firsthand experience of what the 9th Grade students will be going through in Novem-
ber. This is an AMVET program and as such the AMVETS should be more receptive to attending this wonderful event.
Chaperone applications will be sent out if you are interested or please contact the Programs Team and we will get you the
information.
We are currently receiving a lot of Eagle Scout requests and we are putting those on hold until 1 February 2023. So please
let your states know this. We need to concentrate on the end of year program reporting volunteer hours and values.
Veterans Day I was in Maryland for the week and participated with The AMVETS National 2nd Vice and Riders National
2nd Vice in the wreath laying ceremonies at the WWII Memorial, Vietnam Wall and the Korean War Memorial, as well as
participated with the National Commander and Missouri State commander at laying the wreath at the Tomb of the Un-
known Soldier.
V A Vs REP/Dep appointments for the states of A-M. which ended 31 July 2022, some states have still not been updated
and we are now in the process of reminding the N-Z states that they need to look at their REPs/DEPS to see if they need
to be updated. Even if it is the same individuals, we need the new forms with the current state Commanders Signature
and this year’s date. The States A-M forms need to be sent to National now, the States N-Z need to be sent in by 21 July
2023 but the earlier the better so we can have them sent out to the V A locations by 31 July 2023.
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Document page 56: AMVETS NATIONAL PROGRAM DIRECTOR
NEC Staff Report of Carol Hebert, NEC
AMVETS NATIONAL PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Scholarships will be opening in January which is for Veterans, Spouses of and Grandchildren of Veterans we encourage
those to apply. The Lowes Scholarship is also available to anyone that will be looking at going into the trade’s profession.
The Career Center is doing a wonderful job:
AMVETS Career Center placed 230 veterans in the third quarter at a cost per placement of $350.73. At that point, we
successfully met a little over 77% of our annual 630 placement goal. Our full-time placements stood at 94% and our Post
9/11 veterans maintained at 77%. 86% percent who were placed stayed on the job more than 6months and 89% percent
stayed for at least 12 months. With a steady 23% of women veteran placements, our team look forward to attending
targeted women events to increase female veteran recruitment. The top three employment industries for those placements
were Defense Contracting, Government, Business/Finance. The average salary was $63,000.
As of today, the career center has placed 624 of our placement annual goal. It is projected that we will exceed the annual
expectation.
Lastly, I would like to thank the National Commander and National Executive Director for coming out to Michigan for
my Ceremony.
Commander this concludes my report and I request a motion to approve its acceptance.
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Document page 57: AMVETS COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
NEC Staff Report of Miles Migliara, NEC
AMVETS COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
Social Media
We are currently running a steady, long-term social media
followers growth campaign that began in October. The
many goals in increasing our following on social media
include spreading our message and brand awareness as well
as leveraging our platforms as a tool when approaching
potential sponsors, partners, well-known celebrities, etc.
The campaign has yielded just under 100 followers for the
month of October, and building on this steady, predictable
rate of growth will lead to healthier social media engage-
ment.
Public Relations Officers (PROs)
Rolling to Remember was quite a success, as we saw more
than 40,000 people in the RFK parking lot Memorial Day
weekend. The weekend of, we saw every local news out-
let covering the ride. Nationally, we accommodated CNN,
FOX NEWS, Yahoo, PBS NewsHour, Newsmax and more.
Below is a breakdown of the total media reach we received
stemming from April 1 through June 4:
Newsletter
Distribution of the newsletter has stalled the last few weeks
as we wait for our new CRM platform, Springly, to upload
and clean our newsletter distribution list. The newsletter
contains news from headquarters, headquarters in the news,
legislative priorities, the latest podcast episodes, statements
from national leadership, post and member highlights, &
more.
The newsletter goes out to a list of about 170,000 and those
looking to sign up can do so by emailing media@amvets.
org.
Projects
• Comms continues to work with My Front Page Story
where Headquarters is able to highlight our members
through a ‘Veteran of the Month’ release. This collabo-
ration began in March 2022.
• AMVETS is revisiting our Futures 4 Forces cam-
paign with Lowe’s and WD-40. Comms is sharing
in-house-created content as well as providing virtual
meeting assistance for this partnership.
International News
In October, we coordinated an interview between AM-
VETS National Third Vice Commander PAul Shipley
and Bloomberg Government regarding Congressional
post-election turnover in V A Subcommittees. Story can be
found here: https://bit.ly/A VNEWS102022
Days before Veterans Day, we were approached by Mil-
itary.com about the 40 year anniversary of the formation
of the Vietnam War Memorial Wall. We were able to
coordinate feature interviews between PNC JP Brown and
Past State Commander Sheldon Hartsfield, both Vietnam
veterans with intriguing stories and perspectives from
their deployments. Story can be found here: https://bit.ly/
A VNEWS110622
National Website
The updated national website is running. There are small
changes being made weekly, updating outdated forms,
making user experience easier, etc.
Future Projects
Legislative Advocacy Week | Rolling to Remember
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Document page 58: Back cover
Original back cover artwork.
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