New Orleans 2022 National Convention

Document page 1: Front cover

REPORT BOOK
• AMVETS • LADIES AUXILIARY • SONS OF AMVETS • JUNIORS • LEGENDARY RIDERS • SAD SACKS • SACKETTES
77th ANNUAL NATIONAL CONVENTION
NEW ORLEANS
NEW ORLEANS
2022NATIONAL
CONVENTION
NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING
SERVING AMERICAN VETERANS & THEIR FAMILIES FOR MORE THAN 77 YEARS

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 2: Table of contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Spring 2022 National Executive Committee Agenda .....................................................................  2
National District I Reports ..............................................................................................................  3
National District II Reports .............................................................................................................  8
National District III Reports ............................................................................................................  15
National District IV Reports ............................................................................................................  22
National District V Reports .............................................................................................................  31
National District VI Reports ............................................................................................................  34
National Officers Reports ................................................................................................................  37

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 3: National Executive Committee meeting agenda

AGENDA
Call Meeting to Order
Invocation
Honors To The Colors
Roll Call
Adoption Of Agenda
Approval Of Minutes
Visitors
 
NEC Reports
District I
District II
District III
District IV
District V
District VI
 
Committee Reports
Finance
VAV S
National Officers Reports
1st Vice
2nd Vice
3rd Vice
Judge Advocate  
National Staff Reports National Service Foundation
 
Old Business
New Business
Benediction
Honors To Colors
National Commander Greg Heun
National Chaplain Gary Sallade
National Provost Marshal Arthur Majors National Exec-
utive Director Joe Chenelly National Commander Heun
National Commander Heun
National Commander Heun
 
 
Commander James Lafin
Commander Billie Ainsworth
Commander Allen Doubek
Commander Steve Bidstrup
Commander Deborah L. Wehril
Commander Milton Farley
 
 
National Finance Officer Donald Stream V A VS Chair-
man PNC Bill Kilgore
National Commander Greg Heun
First Vice Commander Don McLean
Second Vice Commander Bill Clark
Third Vice Commander Paul Shipley
National Judge Advocate PNC Jim King Executive Di-
rector Joe Chenelly
NSF President PNC Bill Kilgore
Executive Director Joe Chenelly
National Finance Director Agha Hussain
 
 
 
 
National Commander Heun
National Commander Heun
National Chaplain Sallade
National Provost Marshal Majors
2
AMVETS National Executive Committee (NEC) Meeting

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 4: Department of Connecticut National District I

Report of Albert J. Duff, NEC
Department of Connecticut National District I
Membership
Membership still continues to come in. We had one post 
(Post 9) in Connecticut achieve 100% Renewal. Our New 
1st vice Commander is Christopher Paulhus. We in CT 
still have concerns that Renewal Notices are not getting to 
members early enough so that they can renew early. We 
do understand the problems that are being faced but also 
would like to see national AMVETS work with the Depart-
ments and posts at resolving this issue. National member-
ship Director Harry Neal does a Great Job, but he is limited 
in what he can do by what he has to work with.
Programs
Programs in Connecticut have done very well in this first 
reporting period. 7 out of 8 posts have been reported. We 
are still concerned about the Online programs reporting 
system being discontinued. This presents two problems. 
Easy access to do reports in a timely manner and not hav-
ing the ability to track progress regularly. It would be great 
if National AMVETS Programs could send out Monthly 
Reports tracking Post and Department progress until we 
get a new system up and running.
Service
We have been very busy in CT. We have set up AMVETS 
Tables at the Danielson Springtime Festival and the QVCC 
Veterans Stand Down. Our Department Service officer has 
been working with Veterans on getting their claims started. 
There is talk that our V A Hospitals are planning on reopen-
ing and allow us to start up events starting in September. 
We just completed another busy year with our ROTC Units 
around CT.
Upcoming Events
All of our Post have suspended Post Meetings until Sep-
tember to give our members time to take vacations and be 
with family. We will continue to support Veterans programs 
and events throughout the summer as they come up. Some 
posts have White Clover drive coming up. We will also be 
supporting any National Guard events throughout the state.
Legislative
Membership still continues to come in. We had one post 
(Post 9) in Connecticut achieve 100% Renewal. Our New 
1st vice Commander is Christopher Paulhus. We in CT 
still have concerns that Renewal Notices are not getting to 
members early enough so that they can renew early. We 
do understand the problems that are being faced but also 
would like to see national AMVETS work with the Depart-
ments and posts at resolving this issue. National member-
ship Director Harry Neal does a Great Job, but he is limited 
in what he can do by what he has to work with.
Communications/PRO
We are currently setting up a Department Facebook Page 
where we can share upcoming events as well as informa-
tion and pictures of past events. We currently do not have 
a Updated Website and we are looking for someone who 
might be willing to help us get a new site up. We will con-
tinue to set up tables at local events and promote AMVETS 
within our communities and state.
Other
AMVETS Departmentof CT held its Convention on 
June18, 2022 and we were very honored to have nation 2nd 
Vice Commander Bill Clark with us. We elected new Offi-
cers and Mr. Clark swore them in. I am happy to announce 
that Ronnie Maebry is our New Department Commander. 
Dana Dillon was elected as our selection for new National 
District One Commander. I have been Elected as the New 
NEC for CT and Douglas Newell as the Alternate NEC for 
CT. I hope to see everyone in New Orleans.
3

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 5: Department of Massachusettes National District I

Report of Walter J. Pearcey Jr, NEC
Department of Massachusettes National District I
Membership
Membership this year is maintaining. Posts are starting 
to get out more and are participating in more community 
events. This is helping by putting our name and brand back 
out into the public eye. We have a new 1st Vice and he is 
planning some upcoming drives in various areas across the 
state with hopes of attracting new and younger voices for 
our organization.
Programs
We participated in ROTC, poppy drives, Special Olympics 
plunging, Americanism programs, parades along with nu-
merous other events to bring out awareness. State Soldiers 
Homes are beginning to allow programs back in while V A’s 
in the state still have restrictions. We are doing what we 
can to sponsor events in these facilities and trying our best 
to bring some comfort to those inside.
Service
None known
Upcoming Events
We have numerous parades that the department officers 
scheduled to attend along with multiple poppy drives for 
fundraising. We are now handing out small flags at these 
drives as the white flowers have become extremely difficult 
to find. We are trying new ways to bring awareness to our 
organization.
Legislative
We have a watchful eye on our state legislatures’ doings. 
We have our office back open in the state house and have 
someone in there weekly to maintain our presence and to 
keep us updated on any new legislative happenings.
Communications/PRO
Our Facebook page is up and active. We are working on a 
new webpage as our last one crashed. We are pricing out 
different carriers at this time. Our State Honor Guard is 
set up to attend multiple events to present colors with the 
Boston Red Sox this summer along with the Boston Celtics 
again for their next season. They are also in contact with 
the Bruins and Patriots organizations for their upcoming 
seasons.
Other
We held our convention in June of this year. With people 
still uncertain or uncomfortable with health issues, it was 
poorly attended. We are trying to reach out to our Posts to 
find what they feel is the best way to get more involved. 
This is still a major work in progress.
4

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 6: Department of Maine National District I

Report of Kim Lapointe, NEC
Department of Maine National District I
Membership
THE DEPT. OF MAINE CONTINUES TO PUSH 
MEMBERSHIP. WE ARE WORKING ON REACHING 
YOUNGER DEMOGRAPHICS. CURRENTLY WE ARE 
AT ABOUT 73.6% FOR ANNUAL RENEWALS.
Programs
THE DEPT. OF MAINE IS STILL STRUGGLING WITH 
REPORTING DUE TO SYSTEM ISSUES. WE ARE 
ENCOURAGING ALL POSTS TO DOCUMENT AND 
SEND THEIR REPORTING INTO NATIONAL.
Service
THE DEPT. OF MAINE CONTINUES TO WORK WITH 
OUR STATE VETERANS SERVICES AND OUR V A 
HOSPITAL TO HELP ALL VETERANS. ALL VSO’S 
IN THE STATE CONTINUE TO WORK WITH MAINE 
VETERANS COORDINATING COMMITTEE TO HELP 
FIGHT FOR ALL VETERANS IN THE STATE.
Upcoming Events
NATIONAL CONVENTION AUGUST 16-20 IN 
NEW ORLEANS, LA
Legislative
THE DEPT. OF MAINE CONTINUES TO WORK WITH 
OUR LEGISLATURE. WE ALSO WORK WITH OUR 
GOVERNOR ON ALL BILLS PERTAINING TO VET-
ERANS ISSUES. ALL VSO’S IN THE STATE WORK 
TOGETHER IN SUPPORTING THESE EFFORTS.
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 ITS ADOP-
TION AT THE PROPER TIME.
5

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 7: Department of Rhode Island National District I

Report of Raymond Kowal, NEC
Department of Rhode Island National District I
Finally starting to get back to the new normal. All posts have been active in numerous functions. Blood drives, boots-
on-the-ground, coat and clothing drives for veterans in need, and fundraisers for the Autism Society. In August we have 
planned a cookout in honor of the veterans from the Bristol Veterans Home.
 Our membership is growing as we  come out of these rough couple of years. We have a lot of functions on our calendars 
for the remaining year. We continue to teach americanism and support our veterans. This is my report and I asked for it to 
be accepted as written.
6

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 8: Department of Rhode Island National District I

Report of Author Rodriques, NEC
Department of Rhode Island National District I
Membership
membership is coming in slowly but surely we are cur-
rently at 80% we have held membership drives at our local 
stores promoting AMVETS & GAINING SOME NEW 
MEMBERS
Programs
We have held christmas parties for our veterans children 
have promoted gun safety classes with gun control as a 
prescribed course for veterans, spouses, & their children
Service
We have helped with our parades in R.I. We have planned 
fishing tournaments for our veterans & their families
Upcoming Events
We are going to set up at fairs in our state to encourage 
veterans to join AMVETS
Legislative
None Known
Communications/PRO
None Known
Other
None Known
7

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 9: Department of Virginia National District II

Report of John R. Cooper, NEC
Department of Virginia National District II
Membership
We still have not recovered from the COVID-19 in reach-
ing out to our MAL’s as expected. Our Department 1st Vice 
Commander has continued to develop a program to locate 
Department MAL’s by zip code that reside near our exist-
ing Posts. The Department has lost two Posts this year and 
is working with additional development of the operation of 
our Posts to reduce additional losses. Membership support 
from our HQ Membership Director has been outstanding.
Programs
With the loss of our Programs Reporting system, I have 
been unable to report true reporting of programs for this 
period. We again have had 100% Program reporting from 
our Posts. NJROTC/ROTC programs continue to build our 
relations with our current and future Veterans. Our Past 
Department Commander has been working with the Vir-
ginia Department of Veterans Services and AMVETS Heal 
program to use as the Commonwealth’s suicide training 
program.
Service
The Department this year has provided over $10,000 to 
our two Veterans Care Centers and three V A hospitals. 
Two more Commonwealth Veterans Care Centers will 
open before the end of this year in Tidewater and Northern 
Virginia.
Upcoming Events
The Department held our annual DEC Convention in 
Roanoke Virginia on 24-25 June. We elected Eddie R. 
Morris as the Department Commander. Since we did not 
have National HQ’s representation at the Convention, Past 
Department Commander Tracy Via acted on their behalf 
and conducted installation.
Legislative
With the support of all of Virginia VSO’s, AMVETS had 
the number 1 Veterans Position Paper that went before 
the Commonwealth House and Senate. The Governor and 
the General Assembly approved funding of $100,000 and 
corresponding legislation to create a dedicated Suicide 
Prevention-Awareness Coordinator. This coordinator will 
develop effective protocols for suicide risk screening 
and delivery of life saving services for perceived suicidal 
individuals. As of this date, the only statistical information 
from the V A is over two years old.
AMVETS Department of Virginia is requesting that the 
Virginia Department of Veterans Service remove spouse 
burial fees at the Virginia three state veterans cemeteries.
The Joint Leadership Council of Veterans Service Organi-
zations (JLC) was able to get a bill passed that establishes 
a state income tax subtraction of retired military benefits 
up to $10,000. This bill defines military benefits to include 
retirement income and benefits paid to the surviving spouse 
of a veteran.
Communications/PRO
More communications with HQ is needed this year and 
Legislative information from our Legislative Director, if 
we have one.
Other
Commander, this concludes my report and I move for 
adoption at the correct time.
8

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 10: Department of North Carolina National District II

Report of David Wilburn, NEC
Department of North Carolina National District II
Membership
Our Department is still trying to come up with better ways 
to keep our new members. Several of our elderly members 
have passed. Our Department has a little more than 2,500 
members.As all other Departments we all can do a better 
job.
Programs
We have several posts that do bingo each month. Our 
Department does clothes drives for the homeless. Also 
handing out toiletries to the homeless. We also had several 
members place flags on the graves of veterans for Memori-
al Day. Then the next weekend pick up the flags.
Our eastern district was involved with Remembrance on 
The River. A pit stop for riders on their way to Washington 
DC. There was a field of flags for people to donate for a 
flag. The North Carolina traveling wall was on the grounds. 
We had several other displays of veterans or for veterans.
One post had a golf tournament for a fundraiser. The mon-
ies were deposited into the North Carolina Disaster Relief 
Fund. JROTC were given out and photos taken with each 
Cadet. Our Department also participated in the coloring, 
poster and essay contests.
The Department of North Carolina is working hard for 
veterans.
Service
We continue to have great V A VS reps. We are still at a 
slow pace. We have representatives for all of the hospitals. 
We are looking forward to a better year.
Upcoming Events
We will be meeting in Weldon, NC for our fall DEC the 
first weekend in October.
Legislative
The North Carolina Veterans Council meets once a month. 
Amvets are attending the meetings. At this time I am not 
aware of any new legislation.
AMVETS Department of Virginia is requesting that the 
Virginia Department of Veterans Service remove spouse 
burial fees at the Virginia three state veterans cemeteries.
The Joint Leadership Council of Veterans Service Organi-
zations (JLC) was able to get a bill passed that establishes 
a state income tax subtraction of retired military benefits 
up to $10,000. This bill defines military benefits to include 
retirement income and benefits paid to the surviving spouse 
of a veteran.
Communications/PRO
The Department of North Carolina had our State Conven-
tion in Greensboro. The dates were June 3,4 and 5,2022. 
We did not have a National Officer in attendance. We had 
a very successful convention.Elections were held. Here are 
our newly elected officers.
Commander.. Larry Reid
1st Vice……… Mark Beaver
2nd Vice ……. Ed O’NEAL
3rd Vice ……… Harry Brower
We are excited for this next year.
Other
Updated Website and we are looking for someone who 
might be willing to help us get a new site up. We will con-
tinue to set up tables at local events and promote AMVETS 
within our communities and state.
AMVETS Departmentof CT held its Convention on 
June18, 2022 and we were very honored to have nation 2nd 
Vice Commander Bill Clark with us. We elected new Offi-
cers and Mr. Clark swore them in. I am happy to announce 
that Ronnie Maebry is our New Department Commander. 
Dana Dillon was elected as our selection for new National 
District One Commander. I have been Elected as the New 
NEC for CT and Douglas Newell as the Alternate NEC for 
CT. I hope to see everyone in New Orleans.
9

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 11: Department of National District National District II

Report of Billie Ainsworth, NEC
Department of National District National District II
Membership
National District II membership is currently at 99.69 per-
cent of the 2020-2021 level. We consider this to be a great 
achievement due to issues caused by the COVID Pandemic 
during the past two years. Retention and recruitment of 
members has been challenging, but thanks to dedicated 
department officers, the goal of 100% should be attained 
by the end of the 2021-2022 year.
Kudos to Departments of the District of Columbia, Mary-
land, North Carolina, and Virginia for exceeding the 100% 
combined renewal and recruitment goal. I also want to 
congratulate the Departments of Delaware, Pennsylvania, 
and West Virginia. They all exceeded 98% of the renewal 
and recruitment goal.
Programs
National District II members continue to support V A Med-
ical Centers with cash and material donations. Due to the 
COVID Pandemic, in-person volunteerism at V A medical 
facilities has been restricted to a few medical specialists.
However, members have continued to support veterans 
and the community through outreach, visiting hospitalized 
veterans, and supporting JROTC/ROTC Programs.
We are unable to provide an accurate report of program 
activities because the National Program Reporting System 
is off-line.
Service
Service-related activities conducted during this reporting 
period include the following:
Provided cash donations to support prizes for bingo and 
other games Distributed gift bags to homeless individ-
uals (hand warmers, socks and snacks) Visited sick and 
hospitalized veterans Donated gifts for male veterans on 
Father’s Day 
Participated in peer-to-peer services
Attended JROTC Awards Ceremonies at two high schools
Donated gifts for female veterans’ baby shower held at the 
DCV AMC
Upcoming Events
77th AMVETS National Convention, Marriott New Orle-
ans, New Orleans, LA:
August 17, 2022, 8:30 AM Preconvention NEC meeting
August 19, 2022, 2:30 PM District II meeting
August 20, 2022, 12:30 PM Post convention meeting
Legislative
The Department of North Carolina had our State Conven-
tion in Greensboro. The dates were June 3,4 and 5,2022. 
We did not have a National Officer in attendance. We had 
a very successful convention.Elections were held. Here are 
our newly elected officers.
Commander.. Larry Reid
1st Vice……… Mark Beaver
2nd Vice ……. Ed O’NEAL
3rd Vice ……… Harry Brower
We are excited for this next year.
Communications Pro
None known
Other
None known
10

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 12: Department of the District of Columbia National District II

Report of Aaron J. Smith, NEC
Department of the District of Columbia National District II
Membership
Now that COVID-19 is at its lowest point in three years, 
the recruitment goals which this Department started this 
year has been the highest since before the pandemic. Pres-
ently the department has 633 members. This is an increase 
in membership of 24 members since our last quarter and 
we are looking forward to even a better quarter at our next 
reporting.
Programs
The Department has 100 % Programs participation. We 
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.
The District of Columbia Veterans administration hospital 
in Washington DC hosted Winter Haven Day on Saturday 
December 5th at the Medical Center. The Medical Center 
targeted 300 homeless veterans and provided them with 
winter clothing. Because of Covid-19 no volunteers are 
still unable to attend. However, DC AMVETS made a fi-
nancial donation. Leadership of the DC Department contin-
ued to stay informed through Zoom. Attending meetings at 
the department of Veteran affairs Medical Center and VISN 
5 management assistance council meetings.
Service
The Department Provided Homeless Veterans and the 
homeless community with a gift bag that included a pair 
of socks, hand warmers and snacks. We gave out 100 kits 
during the month of February. Post 0008 2nd Vice Com-
mander Angela McKnight and her dog Coco lead the Post 
group that participated in the Doodle Moms of DC/Metro-
politan Police Department K-9 Unit and Veterans Groups 
Community Parade on March 12 from 1-3 pm at Marion 
Park (4th and E street, S.E., Washington DC. The Post used 
this opportunity to Advertise for AMVETS and recruit new 
members.
Johnnie Collins Jr, AMVETS Post 008 held their Second 
Annual Family and Friends Day Cookout on Saturday June 
4th from 1200 – 1700 at Joint Base Andrews; the Cookout 
was a remarkable success.
Upcoming Events
Legislative
Communications/PRO
Other
The Department Convention was held on June 18, 2022, at 
Patton Hall, Ft Myer Officer Club, Arlington. We wel-
comed National Commander Gregory Heun representative, 
National Third Vice Commander Paul Shipley, who related 
Commander Heun’s message.
National Commander, this concludes my report and I move 
for its adoption.
11

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 13: Department of the Pennsylvania National District II

Report of Arthur C. Stahl, NEC
Department of the Pennsylvania National District II
Membership
Commander Greg Heun, E.D. Chenelly and all National 
officers Pa. congratulates you for the great job you all did 
leading us through the covid 19 problems. You not only 
kept AMVETS at the forefront of VSO’s you also held the 
successful “Ride to Remember” keeping our POW/MIA 
Veterans in everybody’s minds. THANK YOU ALL.
Pa. suffered as other departments did due to covid 19 re-
strictions but our officers worked hard to build membership 
and we will work harder in 2023 to surpass national goals.
Programs
Our Programs were led by our Americanism program 
despite the fact that most schools held distance learning 
throughout the year. ROTC awarding was successful 
thanks to our HQ staff supporting 2nd Vice Cmdr. Kim 
Carson and his volunteers. Reporting for the year was 
100% but 2023 reporting may be difficult due to the Na-
tional problems. 
If we’re going back to filing paper reports, what does that 
say about us as an organization. The boy and especially the 
NEC members should have been more informed that we 
were having trouble with the system. I’m not sure $5M is 
the answer to a fix but the explanation at the last meeting 
was garbage. Did the old system crash?
Service
PA’s State Service Officers followed the lead of our great 
National Service officers and led other VSO in the state 
with great claims helping Pa.’s veterans. We added 2 new 
service officers and I know as they come on board our 
claims will skyrocket for veterans in the future.
Upcoming Events
Our fall SEC will be the last meeting at the Radisson Penn 
Harris Convention Center on Sept.9-11, 2022. We are mov-
ing future meetings to the Sheraton Harrisburg Hershey 
Hotel, 4650 Lindle Road, Harrisburg a.17111. Midwinter 
SEC is Jan.13-15, 2023, Spring SEC March 10-12, 2023 
and our 2023 convention will be hosted by Post 103 Hop-
wood, Pa. and the 78th National Convention will be held in 
Pittsburgh. More convention information will be available 
in the future.
Legislative
Pennsylvania is supporting PDC Paul Shipley on his 
candidacy for reelection as National 3rd Vice Commander. 
Paul did an excellent job as Legislative Vice Commander 
but feels he did not fulfill his commitment to the members 
and wants to finish all he campaigned for and we ask all 
members to support this most viable candidate.
Communications/PRO
None known
Other
Pennsylvania’s 2022-23 officers are as follows; Com-
mander Bernard McDonald, 1st Vice Cmdr. Gene “Cook-
ie” Raihl, 2nd Vice Cmdr. Kim Carson, JA Mark Hines, 
Provost Marshal William J. Slabibski, NEC Arthur C. Stahl 
PNC, and Alt. NEC PD2C Robert Bankhead. PDC Gerald 
Hawk was reinstated as the Dept. Executive Director as we 
search for a permanent E.D.. All officers look forward to a 
successful year
12

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 14: Department of the West Virginia National District II

Report of Arthur Pat Kishman, NEC
Department of the West Virginia National District II
COVID-19 Impact
All of our Posts continue to be impacted by Covid 19. 
Some Posts are impacted more than others. All Posts con-
tinue to assist veterans with needs, to include but not lim-
ited to assisting with medical appointments, meals, family 
and community programs.
State Conference
All of our Posts continue to be impacted by Covid 19. 
Some Posts are impacted more than others. All Posts con-
tinue to assist veterans with needs, to include but not lim-
ited to assisting with medical appointments, meals, family 
and community programs.
Membership
The Department is continuing the recruiting program 
initiated as described in the last reports. Post 30 and Post 
38 have a continuing recruiting drive which is working 
jointly with the Department’s efforts. Post 17 has a recruit-
ing competition that is making a difference with prizes 
for those with the highest number of new members. The 
Department recruiting committee is also working with 
(our newest Posts) to assist them in their recruiting effort.
The committee will continue to use the mailing campaign 
which is moving into its fourth year to reach out to de-
linquent members and those in the at large community to 
encourage them to join existing Posts or to work on 
setting up new Posts.
Department Growth
Our program to expand the Department resulted in the 
installation of a new post . We are working on establishing 
new posts in WV , our commander is focusing on Wheeling 
and Charleston but he has the team reaching out to every-
one in all areas.
Programs
Ed Stracka attended the 2nd Vice Programs meeting. The 
new commander would like to seriously address the Home-
less Veteran Program. The Department is running a fund-
raising program to help raise funds to allow the 
Department to do more for veterans. One of the issues 
with the current legislative state of affairs is that although 
AMVETS is a non-profit organization, donations to us are 
not deductible as tax exempt as with the VFW. 
The donations to the AMVETS if handled correctly can 
still be deducted as a marketing expense for the organiza-
tion but that is not fair to the AMVETS that so much more
time, effort and expense must be utilized to support the 
sponsor. According to the stature At least 90% of the orga-
nization’s membership must consist of war veterans. 
The term war veterans means persons, whether or not 
present members of the United States Armed Forces, who 
have served in the United States Armed Forces during a 
period of war (including the Korean and Vietnam conflicts, 
the Persian Gulf war, and later declared wars).” I believe 
we probably meet that requirement now but proving it is 
difficult and should not be required. The AMVETS organi-
zation needs to work to get this restriction changed!
Services
The Department’s service focus is veterans who are in V A 
hospitals and nursing/convalescent homes and those who 
need assistance in making medical visits and rehabilitation 
visits. Posts donate funds, drive veterans to appointments 
as required, visit the V A hospital and nursing homes and 
the Vet centers. This is in conjunction with the Depart-
ment’s recruiting drive. All Posts visit members in the 
hospital and attend visitations and deliver memorial bibles 
to the family of deceased members.
Other
The Department has had a large turnover in the Officer 
staff and is working to continue the revitalization of the 
programs. I think we have a wonderful opportunity for 
mentoring our new officers with two seasoned officers 
stepping down for health reasons who still have the love of
service and do always take the time to mentor others. The 
Department will be developing committees and working in 
conjunction with the programs under way or in develop-
ment by Posts to continue to enhance our membership and 
retention of members.
13

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 15: Department of the Delaware National District II

Report of Douglas Porter, NEC
Department of the Delaware National District II
Membership
Renewal is about 80 % the department is trying to organize 
more posts in Kent and New Castle County.  
Programs
5 posts have reported for the period=100 % 3 posts are 
involved in suicide awareness.  
Post #2, participates in Scholarship’s and ROTC Scholar-
ships, along with major donations to the men’s “ Home of 
the Brave for Veterans” and the new “ Women Home of the 
BRA VE” for women Veterans” in Milford Delaware and 
Milford’s Veterans Home . Set up flu shots for members 
and family. During the pandemic gave out weekly grocer-
ies to 100 families each week for 3 months.   Made dona-
tions of over $ 182. 000.00 to charitable causes in addition 
to two $ 5000.00-dollar Scholarships for ROTC Graduates 
during the period, including a number of handicap ramps 
and handicap hospital equipment: 
Post #5:  post has assisted post # 2 at its various functions 
and is picking up momentum, 
Post #1694: They are doing numerous fund raisers and are 
planning a “White Clover drive at various business loca-
tions in Seaford Delaware. ROTC Presentations at area 
High Schools    
Post #22 Participates with scholarship’s, Community 
programs blood drives Scholarship’s to area high schools 
ROTC Programs. And assisting Veterans in need Made 
donations over  $25,000, 00 
Post #8323 Is active in community.
Services
Department also participated in Stand Downs in Kent   
and Sussex County Delaware. Assisted a number of Vets 
through the Department of Veterans Affairs Presented 
ROTC RECOGNITION AWARDS AND MEDALS to 17 
High schools in the State o Delaware  
Successfully lobbied to get the state to put 3% of Video lot-
tery proceeds into Veterans benefits trust fund.  This is used 
to help Veterans in need with financial problems.   Provid-
ed a $ 1000.00 Scholarship to First State Military Academy 
to Cadet Christopher Allen 
Legislative
The Department and posts are active in legislation both at 
the State and National level. Coordinates with the VFW 
and American Legion, on various pieces of legislation with 
both state and federal elected officials. Department main-
tains close relationship with key legislative leaders and 
their staff  
Commander, this concludes my report and I move for 
adoption. 
14

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 16: Department of Tennessee (continued) National District III

Report of Joe D. Carter, NEC
Department of Tennessee (continued) National District III
Membership
TN State Convention 2022 held at Edgewater Hotel in 
Gatlinburg 6/9-6/12/2022
Election of officers are as follows
Commander – Mark Fredrick
1st Vice – Tim Woody
2nd Vice – Kathi Duncan
Finance Officer – Mike Church
Judge Advocate – Joe Rainwater
Provost Marshall – Larry Evon
Deputy Provost Marshal – Tommy Jurnett
Chaplain – Guy Decamp
Public Relations – John Simes
Inspector General – Kurt Rust
Women’s Vet. Rep. – Lee Ann Adams
NEC Rep – (2yr term election on odd years) serving 2nd 
year Joe Cater
ALT NEC – (2yr term election on odd years) Lee Ann 
Adams
Executive Director – Butch Adams
National Veterans Officer – Michael Oliver
Recreational Director – Michael Jackson
Congratulations to all newly Elected Officers
TN is Proud to announce a New Post # 325 Commander 
Joey King. Total amount of Post’s for TN # 18 We are 
proud to report membership is up at all posts, and as such 
have recruited 212 new members since 9/1/21. The average 
age of members was 68, but with new recruits the average 
age is 57. We would like to stress the need to keep recruit-
ing and touch on the needs of our younger members. Most 
importantly the ratio of male/female new recruits into the 
military and the need to recruit female veterans.
2022 2476 Members Dept of TN 2021 2363 Total
1560 LM 1539 LM
916 AM 824 AM
606 …… Members at Large… 666 MAL
Programs
The Programs Reporting System is under construction. 
Programs Reporting is currently using the attached Report-
ing Spreadsheet for all Post and Department reporting. The 
use of the spreadsheet will be effective July 1, 2022 and 
will remain in place until further notice.
The Programs Reporting System is under construction. 
Programs Reporting is currently using the attached Re-
porting Spreadsheet for all Post and Department reporting. 
The use of the spreadsheet will be effective July 1, 2022 
and will remain in place until further notice. Due to the 
National website for reporting, they are asking everyone to 
keep and submit hard copies for reports. There is a hardline 
reporting form in place.
For the reporting period between Jan. to June TN post-
ed 663 hours for Americanism and 5027 for Community 
Service. Totals were down and after talking with 2nd Vices 
at Post Level, the consensus seemed to be that the Nation-
al database was down. TN carried 100% reporting during 
this time. The Department is currently working on getting 
pocket constitutions to each post in order to be delivered to 
schools by Constitution Day. This is the 5th year of deliv-
ering to 8th graders with a total of over 40K handed out.
Through a corporate grant from the WD-40 Company and 
Lowe’s Companies, Inc., AMVETS is pleased to offer 
scholarships to Veterans and their spouses. Generation 
T Scholarships are offered to Veterans and spouses who 
would like to enter into or advance their career in the 
skilled trades industry; fall applications will be accepted 
from July 19th through September 24th, 2022. contact Carl 
Jackson at carljackson@amvets.org or 301-683-4007.
Service
Silver Bayonet was awarded to Johnny Edmonds Post #389
Clyde Luttrell Post # 2 Amvets Member of the Year
Gold Star Memorial at TN State Cemetery in Strawberry 
Plains Honored a Medal Honor Recipient Hershel Woody 
Williams and his tireless dedication to recognizing the 
sacrifice of Gold Star and Military Surviving Families, Na-
tionwide moment of remembrance and reflection on July 
1st at 3 pm at Gold Star Families Memorial Monument.
Ms. Chelsea Stuart of Copper Basin High School was 
awarded by Post 911 Jeff Hartless an award for entry in the 
2022 Americanism Contest.
15

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 17: Department of Tennessee (continued) National District III

Report of Joe D. Carter, NEC
Department of Tennessee (continued) National District III
Upcoming Events
A Department of TN Golf Tournament, Hosted by AM-
VETS Post 100 Etowah TN Sept 10th, 2022, Check-in 
8:00 at Ridgewood Golf Club, Athens TN. To Benefit TN 
Military Veterans for more information, go to http://www.
AmvetsTennessee.org/
AMVETS Post # 90 Decatur, TN will be hosting a BBQ 
Fundraiser for Uvalde Texas School Shooting Victims. Au-
gust 27,2022 @ 11:30am 16334 TN-58, Decatur TN 37322
Fall SEC To be Hosted by AMVETS Post # 45 Buchanan 
TN
FRIDAY , OCTOBER 21, 2022, AT 8 AM – 11 PM
Legislative
TN passing of their new bylaws at TN State Convention
2023 TNVET Legislative Agenda Representatives of the 
TNVET member organizations will meet within the next 
90-120 days (by late September) to set the agenda/items 
that will be worked on in the 2023 Tennessee legislative 
session. It is our mission to meet with members of the state 
legislative Veteran Caucus before and after our annual 
conference.
Veterans Day On The Hill
WEDNESDAY , FEBRUARY 1, 2023, AT 8 AM
Cordell Hull Building
Early each February, TNVET organizes and conducts 
“Veterans Day “On The Hill” in the Cordell Hull State 
Office Building in Nashville. This building houses all state 
legislator offices and meeting facilities. In 2023, the event 
will happen on Wednesday, Feb 1st.
Any veteran may attend (this includes veterans who may 
not be a member of ANY state veteran organization or 
those whose veteran organization has not joined TNVET), 
although we cap the number attending at 250 due to facility 
constraints.  The 2023 legislative agenda formulation is 
underway. You will have to sign up so that we have a head-
count for planning and check-in purposes. THE SIGN UP 
FOR 2023 will open in Jan 2023. (tnvet.org)
1.)Covid Death Certificate and Dependency and Indemnity 
Compensation (DIC)
2.)Military Electronic V oting Bill
3.)Medical Cannabis Bill
4.)2nd plate for 100% disabled
As veterans know, TNVET submitted four action items 
for 2022. One was approved and passed into law. One put 
behind the budget (meaning no money was allocated for 
its passage (restoring 2nd disabled license plate); one was 
pulled from further consideration due to a legal issue that 
could not be corrected in time (Medical Cannabis); and 
one that was thought to be ready for an official summer 
study but was dropped from further consideration (Military 
Electronic V oting).
It is very likely that the voting and cannabis bills will be 
resubmitted by TNVET, as the groundwork accomplished 
in 2022 is vital to their future passage. It has not been un-
common to have to work bills for a couple of years to gain 
final passage.
Communications/PRO
TN has a webpage http://www.AmvetsTennessee.org/ and 
there is lots of valuable information on there, Calendar of 
events, posts, programs, resources, and past accomplish-
ments. Please take time to visit, it’s a great way of visiting 
TN to find a local post or even attend a function.
Other
Service Foundation Newly Elected President Jimmy T. 
Smith
For Good of the order:
Rest In Peace – Marine
USMC E9 MGySgt (RET)
Jim Ferguson
Jim Ferguson – 1st Vice Commander Post 1776 Nashville, 
Past Judge Advocate – Department of Tennessee, Past 
Judge Advocate AMVETS District – III, active with VFW 
Posts in and around Nashville and several other Veteran 
Service Organizations passed away February 13, 2022, at 
approximately 0925 hrs.
16

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 18: Department of Mississippi National District III

Report of Adelbert Wilber, NEC
Department of Mississippi National District III
Membership
Being such a small post, we have been sponsoring 
dances to the open public, attending events sponsored by 
the Biloxi Bay Area Chamber of Commerce (also joined 
the BBACC), manned a membership table at events and 
we have a membership drive scheduled for a Biloxi 
Shuckers baseball game on June 11th.
Programs
Most recently we have presented the AMVETS Medal to 
a cadet at Biloxi High School’s JROTC Program. We also 
man the White Clover buckets at our events and we are 
actively seeking out our county Veterans Services Officer 
in trying to gain access to our local V AMC so that we can 
extend service to our veterans, again.
Service
We have been limited in service to our local V AMC in Bi-
loxi because they are STILL under COVID protocols. But, 
we have teamed up without host at Beauvoir, The Jefferson 
Davis House and Museum in conducting tours for students 
and other groups in support of Americanism. We also re-
cently bought a cane for one of our veterans that had better 
support than the one he was using.
Upcoming Events
May 6th, we have another benefit dance to increase aware-
ness and drive up membership; May 28th, we are assisting 
our VSO in laying wreaths at the Biloxi Nat’l Cemetery; 
June 11th – membership drive at MGM Park for a Biloxi 
Shuckers game.
Legislative
We tried to schedule a meeting with our Congressman, 
Steven Palazzo to visit with us on April 2nd, but he 
canceled.
Communications Pro
We reached out for info on White Clovers and learned they 
were on back-order.
Other
Yes, we have had many complaints from our members 
on the AMVETS Quartermaster website. It is quite diffi-
cult to order things from it and orders that are made take 
weeks and weeks to get filled. Case-in-point: our 2nd Vice 
ordered a new garrison hat back in February and still hasn’t 
received it. This service is unsatisfactory.
17

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 19: Department of Kentucky National District III

Report of Alan R. Smith, NEC
Department of Kentucky National District III
National Commander Heun, National Officers, Members of the National Executive Committee and fellow AMVETS:
The 75th Annual Convention AMVETS Department of Kentucky was held June 16 -19 - 2022 At the Holiday Inn Cincin-
nati Airport Erlanger KY .  
On Saturday morning the convention was called to order, with 55 members and 3 guest present on the floor convention 
rules were adopted
Minuets from the last convention were adopted as printed. 
All Department Officers, Post Commanders and NEC gave reports all were adopted 
Meeting was adjourned in preparation for the joint opening meeting and memorial service
The joint opening followed by our AMVETS Memorial service was held at 13:00 and was well attended by all.
On Saturday night we honored Department Commander Bill Adkins, Auxiliary President Gardina Branscum Rich, and 
Son’s Commander Tim Goldman with a Hawaiian theme casual dinner, the dinner was well attended, as was the dance 
following the dinner.  
The department of Kentucky AMVETS was very happy to welcome National Finance Officer Don Stream, PDC Robert E. 
Lee, PDC Sheldon Hartsfield, PDC Bobby Lumpkins, and of course our own AMVETS National Commander Greg Heun 
who attended as a delegate. 
On Sunday morning we held final nominations and election of officers, all elected and appointed officers were sworn in by 
National Commander Greg Heun 
I would like to congratulate Dale Clark on his Election as department commander, I know that he will lead AMVETS de-
partment of Kentucky in an ever forward and positive way to continue to help all veterans and their families in KY .
Our change of books SEC will be held July 9, 2022 at 12 noon at AMVETS State HQ Louisville KY , and our next regular 
SEC meeting will be held at AMVETS Post 75 Owensboro KY on September 10, 2022 at 12 noon. Hotel information is 
Hampton Inn downtown waterfront $129.00 (207) 685-2005 and Hampton Inn South $99.00 a night (270) 926-2006
Commander Heun, this concludes my report and I move for its adoption.
18

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 20: Department of Georgia (Continued) National District III

Report of Frederick L Bates, NEC
Department of Georgia (Continued) National District III
Membership
The Department of Georgia has ninety-three new members, 
248 members renewed for a total of 341 annual members 
and thirty-four new Life members, 2 Life Conversion for 
a total of 1500 life members. This gave the Department 
a total of 1841 members. The Department is working to 
improve the renewal rate by using Facebook and ZOOM 
to get information out. The Department has revoked one 
post and added one new post. We now have 14 Post in the 
Department
Programs
The Department of Georgia has a total of 14 of 14 Post 
Reporting at the end of July 2022. As of 30 July 2022, we 
have 100% post reporting. We had a total 1,628 volunteers 
with 6,171 volunteers’ hours with 39,277 miles which 
gives the Department a total program value of $202,115.51 
for the period ending July 2022. The Department distrib-
uted 35 JROTC/ROTC medals and certificates to Post for 
presentation at local high schools and colleges throughout 
the state.
Service
The Department of Georgia Service Foundation Officers 
for the year are:.
1. President Fredrick Bates (2 Year)
2. Vice President Robert P. Heiss (2 Year)
3. Secretary/Treasurer Ronnie Dunn (2 Year)
4. Trustee Arthur Rushin (1Year)
5. Trustee Ametha Wiggs (1 Year)
6. Trustee Ronald J. Dillon (1 Year)
7. Trustee Bobby Rand (2 Year)
8. Immediate Past Commander) Wendell Rivens
9. Incumbent Commander Milton Allen
10. State Finance Officer Wendell Rivens (ex-officio mem-
bers)
11. State Judge Advocate Albert Wright (ex-officio mem-
bers)
The Department of Georgia Service Foundation donated 
$5000 to the Atlanta V A Health Care System. This dona-
tion will be used to supplement care and service provided 
to Veteran patients and their family at the Atlanta V A. They 
donated $1500 to the Lake City North Florida/South Geor-
gia V A Healthcare System Patients to buy a Full-size Re-
frigerator to provide the smaller niceties to make Veterans 
stay more comfortable. We donated $5000 to AMVETS 
Department of Georgia Riders to help them grow the 
Department of Georgia AMVETS Riders. Due to COVID 
they did not get to do any fundraising this year. We donated 
$2000 to Hillgrove High School Navy ROTC for the Navy 
National Orienteering Championship. They won the Cham-
pionship!! We donated $3.375 for Post 621 for renovation 
to the new CC Stephen Post 621. We are donating $1000 to 
the National Commander Project “AMVETS”.
Upcoming Events
The Department of Georgia September 2022 SEC will 
be 09 -11 September 2022 at the Hilton Garden Inn, 207 
North Willie Lee Parkway, Warner Robins GA. Telephone 
855-680-3239. The Department will have a 911 memorial 
during this SEC. We are inviting the local Fire Department 
and Police Department to honor their fallen brothers and 
sisters and participate in a candlelight memorial ceremony 
marking the 22nd anniversary of 911.
Legislative
None Unknown
Communications Pro
The Public Relations Officer has all Department meetings 
on Zoom/Facebook live so members can log in and attend 
virtually. This should help keep members updated on all 
Department issues.
19

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 21: Department of Georgia National District III

Report of Frederick L Bates, NEC
Department of Georgia National District III
Other
The Department held its State Convention 3-5 June at the 
Hilton Garden Inn, 207 North Willie Lee Parkway, Warner 
Robins, GA. The new Department of Georgia AMVETS 
Officers are:
Commander: Milton Allen (Post 910 Newnan)
First Vice Commander: Stephon Banks (Post 600 Taccoa)
Second Vice Commander: Wanda Rice (Post 12 Winder)
Judge Advocate: Albert Wright (Post 44 Atlanta)
Provost Marshal: Calvin Davis (Post 607 Valdosta)
Inspector General: Jeremiah Botkin (Post 12 Winder)
Finance Officer Wendell Rivens (Post 607 Valdosta)
Service Officer: Brent Colbert (Post 10 Athens)
Executive Director: Ron Dillon (Post 12 Winder)
Chaplain: Shannon Baxter (Post 12 Winder)
NEC: Frederick Bates (Post 607 Valdosta)
Nat’l Guard Rep: Kevin Ashe (Post 10 Athens)
Public Relations Officer: John Sliman (Post 12 Winder)
V A Representative: Harold Banks (Post 44 Atlanta)
Service Foundation President: Frederick Bates (Post 607 
Valdosta)
National Service Officer: Bobby Rand (Post 44 Atlanta)
Mental Wellness Coordinator: Arthurine Wright (Post 44 
Atlanta)
Ladies Aux. Liaison Connie Autry (Post 12 Winder)
Deputy Provost Marshal Victor Colston (Post 607 Valdos-
ta)
Dept. Historian Connie Autry (Post 12 Winder)
20

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 22: Department of Florida National District III

Report of Joseph Piening, NEC
Department of Florida National District III
Membership
We continue to show progress increasing our Membership 
and soon will be surpassing Eighteen Thousand Members. 
We have 72 posts and hope to have three more by the end 
of this fiscal year. We voted to pass the National proposed 
amendment to increase Life Membership with an amend-
ment to increase Annual membership as well. 
With COVID-19 on the downside we strive to have the 
Best Year ever, increasing our Membership. 
Programs
Posts in Florida are doing a great job in promoting our 
AMVET Programs.  We have over 80% reporting online.  
Our numbers could be so much higher if members would 
fill out Good Deed Forms. 
We all look forward to National establishing a program so 
all Posts can report online. 
Service
Florida’s Service Officers filed 6,382 claims. 
Total Compensation Paid of $69,970,102 
 Average payment per claim $1,692 
They signed up 18 Life and 18 Annual for a total of 36 
members. 
 
Service Foundation granted $36,100,00 to the Department, 
Auxiliary and Sons. They also pay for every Program with-
in the Department. 
Officers for 2022-2023 
President: PDC Larry Arnett, Vice- President: PDC A.J. 
John, PDC Treasurer Terry Corson, Parliamentarian: PNC 
Joseph Piening, Secretary: Geoff Earle 
Other
The Department Convention was a huge success, and our 
banquet was second to none.  We were honored to have 
Nation Vice-Commander Don Mclean, there joining us. 
Commander Bullock was reelected for a second term.  
Commander Bullock has turned the Department in the right 
direction in fulfilling the Aims and Purchases of our Great 
Organization.  
The Department Florida is very fortunate to have out-
standing leadership, two of which are running for National 
Office: 
-     Retired Colonel Terry Corson for National First 
Vice-Commander. 
-     Retired Sargent Major Horace Johnson for National 
Second Vice -Commander 
Both are well Qualified and are worthy of your support. 
21

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 23: Department of Michigan National District IV

Report of Bob Green, NEC
Department of Michigan National District IV
Membership
Although member deaths, reduced Post hours and Covid 
disruptions continue to hurt membership growth in Mich-
igan, we’ve only lost about 200 members overall, from 
7444 in 2021 to 7246 in 2022. Several Posts are trying 
different events to bring new members in. A good example 
is Post 13 in Higgins Lake (Roscommon) MI. They have 
started an annual Fall ATV event that is popular. They also 
have a young commander, Jim Pierce, who looks for every 
opportunity to recruit. The post was named Post of the 
Year, Jim was named Commander of the year and member 
Craig Robinson was named AMVET of the year at our 
June 2022 Department Convention.
Programs
Problems with online program reporting have seriously 
hurt us in Michigan. We are only at about 43% and we 
could be higher if we could do it online. We trained our 
Posts to do online reporting. Now we are asking them to do 
paper reporting and they are confused, complaining about 
the process and not reporting their activities.
We are proud of the Michigan students who are partici-
pating in the National Americanism Contests and hope to 
see a few national winners. At our Department convention 
the AMVETS (and Ladies Auxiliary) voted on a resolution 
regarding the publishing of prizes. The resolution will be 
sent to the National AMVETS Americanism Committee for 
discussion at the National 2022 Convention.
Service
A few posts in Michigan have participated in Pinning / 
Recognition ceremonies in senior living centers and nurs-
ing facilities, especially for Korean and Vietnam veterans. 
Several Department officers attended the funeral services 
for Medal of Honor recipient Duane E. Dewey in October 
2021. A Michigan Gold Star family was recognized in the 
Honor & Remember program in November 2021.
Upcoming Events
Michigan will be honoring 5 Gold Star families with 
Honor and Remember ceremonies at Post 22 in Bay City. 
PNSC Don Finnegan (Indiana) has been instrumental in 
supporting Michigan’s program.
Legislative
Due to significant health issues of several key Department 
officers, our Legislative work had to be suspended. Hope 
to have more to report later in the year.
Communications/PRO
Michigan hosted the National 4th District meeting in 
December. District Commander Steve Bidstrup wanted to 
increase exposure to the importance of diversity and to the 
PAWS With A Cause organization. The meeting was well 
attended and PAWS received several donations.
Also, exposing PAWS staff to Michigan Post #126 resulted 
in the Post being used for a unique client/service dog train-
ing for two military families with Autistic children. One 
family was from Texas. The other was from California. 
Good publicity for AMVETS and For PAWS.
Other
Our Department Convention occurred June 24 – 26, 2022 
at the Doubletree Hotel in GR. We elected several officers 
who’ve never held a Department office before. It is good 
to see new people in these offices. I am looking forward to 
serving Michigan as its NEC man over the next two years.
This concludes my report and I ask for its acceptance at the 
appropriate time.
22

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 24: Department of Illinois National District IV

Report of Chris Studebaker, NEC
Department of Illinois National District IV
Membership
Amvets Department of Illinois’ membership was 9,323 
members in 2020-2021. Currently, the department has 
around 8,373 members this year as of May 31, 2022. Illi-
nois Amvets is constantly trying to improve our coverage 
and remain at the forefront of Illinois veterans’ organiza-
tions.
Programs
AMVETS Department of Illinois received an award for 
100% programs reporting for this past year. In addition, 
Illinois AMVETS volunteers continue to work to provide 
volunteer events such as bingo, picnics, and the like.
Service
Amvets Department of Illinois currently has 6 department 
VSOs located throughout the state. All VSOs are work-
ing thoroughly and effectively to assist veterans and their 
families by filing over 3,150 claims bringing in over $42 
million worth of benefits to the state of Illinois just this 
recent calendar year (2020). We couldn’t be prouder of our 
service officers, they are second to none.
Upcoming Events
Michigan will be honoring 5 Gold Star families with 
Honor and Remember ceremonies at Post 22 in Bay City. 
PNSC Don Finnegan (Indiana) has been instrumental in 
supporting Michigan’s program.
Legislative
The new 101st Illinois General Assembly had a very busy 
Spring Session, passing major legislation to include some 
Veteran-related bills that Illinois Amvets facilitated. If you 
have any questions referring to any vet related Illinois leg-
islation 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.
Other
Amvets Department of Illinois held its 77th department 
convention June 24-26 in Springfield, IL. We had the 
pleasure of having the National Commander in attendance. 
During our convention we handed out numerous awards 
to posts, post members, and businesses that have made a 
significant impact on their respective communities. The de-
partment’s newly elected department commander is James 
Duncan out of post 100 in Jacksonville, IL.
Our next upcoming event is our annual school of instruc-
tion which is held in conjunction with our September 
SEC. This year it will be September 16-17 at the Abraham 
Lincoln in Springfield, IL. At this meeting we invite two 
members of every post down to learn about membership, 
programs, our service officers, post organization, post of-
ficer responsibilities, communication/pro, and many other 
things. On Saturday night we have a picnic at the Spring-
field VFW for comradery and to just get to meet new AM-
VETS and welcome them into our great organization.
Any questions please contact our State Headquarters at 
217-528-4713.
23

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 25: Department of AMVETS National District IV

Report of Steve Bidstrup, NEC
Department of AMVETS National District IV
Membership
The district continues to grow with a 4.33% growth over 
last year. Departments are utilizing both post and state 
functions to recruit new members and retain existing mem-
bers. The departments are also taking advantage of national 
functions such as Rolling to Remember, jobs for veterans 
and the HEAL Team. Together, Amvets will continue to 
grow. Another advantage we have is the ability to sign up a 
veteran with honorable service to our ranks. Explaining the 
Amvet advantages to vets makes membership much easier.
Programs
All departments have been busy with different events, 
fundraisers that not only benefit each department but also 
each post. Cookouts and poker runs are excellent ways to 
raise money. With the help from the Riders, Sons, Auxilia-
ries and Jr’s our events are very successful. The only prob-
lem is the reporting system and the lack of communication 
concerning when things will be back up and running.
Service
District IV continues to provide help in our local communi-
ties by donating money and supplies to hard hit areas such 
as the tornadoes in Tennessee this past spring. We help 
with honor flights, helping active duty personnel as needed, 
providing a way for the public to dispose of flags properly 
and donating new flags to local and state entities. When a 
local paper has a story showing what we do we all win.
Upcoming Events
We are holding membership drives, more fundraisers and 
volunteering in our local communities. Establishing new 
posts is a high priority.
Legislative
Each department continues to be present at state capitals 
and each senator’s and representative’s office. Some local 
governments are trying to take away our tax exempt status 
so all must be involved with local townships and cities.
Communications/PRO
Almost all posts and departments have a facebook page or 
a website to let everyone know what is happening and to 
make other announcements concerning veteran services 
and activities in local communities.
Other
By sharing what a post has accomplished, we are able to 
promote Amvets. Michigan Amvets Post 13 was named 
post of the year. They put a sign up for all to see.
24

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 26: Department of Indiana National District IV

Report of Richard Caldwell, NEC
Department of Indiana National District IV
Membership
We have a newly pending chartered energized post in our 
upper eastern part of our state. We have two others still 
pending in getting their ten new members. Post 509 is 
looking to expand all our family subordinate organizations 
in expanding our community involvement. We have imple-
mented better communication with social media outlets in 
promoting our AMVETS Organization.
Programs
Post 7476 has a needed materials drive along with clothing 
items to assist for their special projects and proper attire 
when released back to their communities. The Department 
has participated in the Indiana Department of Veterans 
Affairs conferences recently at our Indiana National Vet-
erans Cemetery for its expansion grant. The Department is 
organizing a new approach to the training in October.
Service
Our VSO’s have continued to provide needed benefits for 
our Indiana veterans with four locations. We are ready to 
hire another VSO for our new location in Bloomington, 
IN near Indiana University. We have many newly elected 
officers on our Service Foundation Board of Trustees. The 
INSF is making our grant proposal request for state appro-
priations in assisting our many Indiana veterans very soon.
Upcoming Events
Our Indiana Veterans Home has scheduled our annual 
picnic and fish fry for September and October at their 
facility in West Lafayette, IN. The Department is trying to 
make our training conference more conclusive to all newly 
elected officers along with details of utilizing our CBL’s 
updates for proper documentation in October conference.
Legislative
Our Department Legislative Director is staying in touch 
with our Indiana Legislators in getting several bills intro-
duced with the new session that starts late July. He has 
been re-elected for another term and knows most Legisla-
tors. Indiana needs more for our veterans.
Communications/PRO
Indiana still has some billboards along major roads across 
the state. Our public service radio spots continue to spark 
interest in what AMVETS is all about. Naturally word of 
mouth is our best form of communication in getting the 
word out about our AMVETS.
Other
The election in June was not well attended but the Depart-
ment has some new members willing to step up and help 
our future within our continued trusteeship.
25

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 27: Department of Ohio (Continue) National District IV

Report of Sandra Vorhies, NEC
Department of Ohio (Continue) National District IV
Membership
The Department of Ohio as stated previously continues 
to reach out to the younger veterans and this is proven 
through the younger veterans that are taking part in Post, 
District and Department Level programs and offices.
As a department we are also working towards bringing 
women veterans into the AMVETS Family and reaching 
out to our women veterans so that as a department we can 
be of better assistance to the needs of our women veterans.
Programs
Ohio continues to be active and support Special Olym-
pics, our veteran homes, neighborhood nursing homes that 
house veterans and our veteran hospitals. We continue to 
reach out to our veterans that are not able to make visits to 
the Post. We do this because we do not want any veteran to 
feel left behind or forgotten.
We are dedicated and proud of our program 1 Is TooMa-
ny and the working relation we have with Dr. Chrisanne 
Gordon, founder of Resurrection Lives. We are passionate 
about saving our veterans from believing that the only 
direction to solve a problem or problems is through suicide 
and with the partnership with Resurrection Lives we know 
we can make a big difference.
Service
We are very fortunate to have outstanding V A VS Represen-
tatives that continue to do a great service for our veterans 
and their families. With the veteran facilities being closed 
and due to the COVID-19 we have had to come up with 
ways to let our veterans know that we are still thinking of 
them and are here for them. Our Sandusky, Ohio Veterans 
Home being opened we are planning on several events 
such as Christmas in July and our annual cookout for our 
veterans.
Our Juniors are so exciting to have within our AMVET 
Family. The juniors have been working hard to put together 
no-sew blankets and care packages for the veterans’ center 
and on fundraising to support their projects. The Depart-
ment of Ohio is very blessed to have active Juniors.
Upcoming Events
Our AMVETS Day at Ohio Veterans Homes in Sandusky 
and Georgetown Ohio are scheduled to go forward this 
year and we are so excited about getting back with the 
veterans
Ohio Upcoming Events are:
*The Abby McCory Memorial State Golf Tournament will 
be held at Medway Post #148 on August 6 & 7 2022,
*The Lowell Harshbarger Memorial Horseshoe Tourna-
ment will be hosted by Covington Post #66 – Working on 
the date at this time.
*The Delmar Click State Turkey Shoot will be held in 
Elyria at Post #32 in October. The date is to be determined.
* A new upcoming event will be Axe Throwing – the de-
tails are being worked out.
* Fall Conference will be held at the Crowne Plaza Octo-
ber 6 – 9
Legislative
Ohio AMVETS prides itself on actively advocating on 
behalf of veterans and their dependents before the Ohio 
Legislature, Ohio Department of Veterans Affairs, and state 
and local agencies, as well as supporting Ohio’s National 
Guard. We also actively monitor aspects of the state budget 
process, which affect such issues as veterans’ homes, Na-
tional Guard, County Veterans Service Officers, and veter-
ans outreach programs. We continue to alert and make our 
members aware and encourage the membership to become 
active. We are a V oice for our Veterans and Families.
26

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 28: Department of Ohio National District IV

Report of Sandra Vorhies, NEC
Department of Ohio National District IV
Communications/PRO
Commander Sara Pierce Project is the nonprofit organization MASH Pantry and Resource Center (Military and Service 
Heroes). Founded by U.S. Navy veteran Amber Hudson, MASH is an independent 501(c )3 non-profit, homegrown 
organization that provides resources to meet personal needs local veterans may have (i.e. food and hygiene items, support 
resources, vocational assistance, and more).
Other
The election in June was not well attended but the Department has some new members willing to step up and help our 
future within our continued trusteeship.
27

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 29: Department of Iowa National District IV

Report of Barry Remington, NEC
Department of Iowa National District IV
Membership
Membership so far this year has been slightly above where 
the department was at the same time last year. There are a 
couple of posts that have events monthly that are designed 
to bring veterans into the post for a meal and visit other 
vets and talk to them about joining AMVETS.
Programs
It was good to see that the programs department found a 
method for reporting programs. Having said that, I per-
sonally have not been able to download any of my posts 
programs on that system. I can enter the data and go to the 
next data entry space and what I had just entered disap-
pears.
Service
We have participated in several military funerals, given 
out scholarships, held fundraisers, conducted Memorial 
Day Ceremonies, Flag Burning ceremonies and 4th of July 
celebrations. We also have participated in the Cedar Falls 
annual celebration with the Post 49 Color Guard leading 
the parade.
Upcoming Events
July 20th we will be holding a training session for the new-
ly elected department officers. We are also in the planning 
stage for a 911 ceremony and Pearl Harbor Day.
Legislative
Iowa’s legislature will not be in session until January of 
2023. Had some success in advancing veterans issues this 
year, but did not succeed in all of the veterans issues that 
were presented to the legislature.
Communications/PRO
None Unknown
Other
None Unknown
28

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 30: Department of Missouri (Continue) National District IV

Report of Report of Robert E. Lee, NEC
Department of Missouri (Continue) National District IV
Membership
1. The Department of Missouri currently has 30 active    
posts with a total of 3720 current members (1165 annual 
and 2555 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 326 members that expired on 
8/31/2021 and the 219 members whose membership ex-
pired on 8/31/2020.  These additional Veterans would bring 
membership up to 4265!  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. Programs reporting for the reporting period which 
ended on June 30, 2021, was a tremendous success.  We 
had 34 of 34 posts (100%) report online.  There was a 
total of 4,697 volunteers who performed 17,818 hours in 
services that covered 170,671 miles.  These services were 
valued at $640,042.42!  
2. Programs reporting for the reporting period which 
ended on December 31, 2021, was also a success!  We had 
32 of 32 posts (100%) report online.  There was a total of 
4,152 volunteers who performed 24,169 hours in services 
that covered 249,976 miles.  These services were valued at 
$958,570.49!  
3. 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!! 
4. For the current 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 ac-
count of the online access being down for upgrades.  This 
includes 3520 volunteers who performed 18,689 hours in 
services that covered 118,893 miles.  These services are 
valued at $590,305.92. 
5. The 2nd Vice Commander of Programs will con-
tinue to work with posts and encourage to report programs 
online.  There are many upcoming events that will get 
reported when completed.  Despite the ongoing pandemic, 
Missouri AMVETS trudged forward and will continue to 
do so to ensure the aims and purposes of the organization 
are upheld.
Service
1. 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 candidate for the 
Columbia V A but finalization is dependent on the current 
COVID-19 Pandemic.  The long-term plan is to have a 
Service Officer in each of the 5 V A Hospitals. 
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.
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: 
October 1-2, 2022, February 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 – 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.
SCS/SB 882 - This act modifies and establishes provi-
sions relating to military affairs, including Vietnam Vet-
erans Day, Missouri Orange Heart Medal, information of 
services of state agencies for veterans, school choice for 
students of military families, and professional licensing 
informational webpage for members of the military.
29

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 31: Department of Missouri National District IV

Report of Report of Robert E. Lee, NEC
Department of Missouri National District IV
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).
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 includes 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).
2. 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
None currently
Other
None currently
30

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 32: Department of Texas National District V

Report of Bobby Lumpkins, NEC
Department of Texas National District V
Membership
We are still working with post to get out setup membership 
Drives.
Programs
We continued to work on assisting our veterans.We assist-
ed post 133 in Mineral Wells TX. Emergency Response 
Team, PO Box 605 Mineral Wells, TX. 76067.
Service
We have continued to assisted local residents. We got to 
go to the V A at Waco to serve hot dogs to veterans on the 
4th of July. WE DID a lot of parades all cross TX .We are 
up to 98 RVs out to veterans and we have 6 veterans who 
still waiting.They must have served at least 200 days and 
haven’t worse then GENERAL UNDER HONORABLE 
CONDITIONS.
Upcoming Events
We have plans to attend parades across tx.on Labor day. 
We have a SEC meeting on Oct.6-8,2022.
Legislative
We still go down to Austin and talk to the BINGO COM-
MISSIONER.
Communications/PRO
ENCOURAGING TEXTING MEMBERS AND REACH-
ING OUT TO EACH OTHER USING TECHNOLOGY .
Other
Bobby Lumpkins is putting his name in for 2nd vice com-
mander at the National Convention in New Orleans, Au-
gust 16-20 2022. Commander HEUN THIS CONCLUDES 
MY REPORT AND I MOVE FOR ITS ADOPTION.
31

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 33: Department of AMVETS National District V

Report of Deborah Wehrli, NEC
Department of AMVETS National District V
Membership
The District is working hard to get Colorado up and work-
ing with the help of Rick Young. Rick has worked numer-
ous hours on membership. Oklahoma has been working on 
membership with a new post just opened
We have had some growth in the district, but we still need 
to work on keeping the annual member.
Programs
I just got an email from the National Programs Director 
stating that District V was the first District to have 100% 
reporting. Kudos to Texas, Kansas, Nebraska, and North 
Dakota for reporting for their state.
Service
None known
Upcoming Events
None known
Legislative
Contacting local, state, and federal legislators
is very important for the members of the District
V to make sure all active duty and veterans
are given the highest priority so as not to be forgotten
Communications/PRO
Communications between National and District V have
been null to none. We have got to get better on this. We 
have to have better
communication between the National and all the District 
Officers.
When you have no communication, that is when you lose 
membership.
Other
Nebraska is still working on a bell tower and carillon for 
the Omaha National Cemetery. Still in the works and run-
ning out of time this year by not knowing what Nebraska 
winter will bring.
32

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 34: Department of Nebraska National District V

Report of Carol Tschampl-Diesing, NEC
Department of Nebraska National District V
Membership
Our Department’s membership recruitment is slowly 
picking up after facing many challenges due to the covid 
pandemic.
Programs
This past Spring, the Department of Nebraska awarded 2 
$500 college tuition scholarships to deserving students. In 
addition, our Department awarded 12 ROTC medals and 
certificates to current students in the state.
Service
V A VS representatives are working as much as they are al-
lowed in our state veterans’ homes and veterans’ hospitals 
based on current covid guidelines.
Upcoming Events
1. Due to covid illness, the Department of Nebraska Con-
vention for 2022 was canceled and all existing department 
officers will remain the same for the ensuing year.
2. The Department of Nebraska is planning 2 depart-
ment-level fundraisers: one will be a raffle and one will be 
the sale of challenge coins.
Legislative
The State of Nebraska is working on passing a variety of 
bills that will benefit veterans.
Communications/PRO
There continues to be an email scam where individuals 
are using the names of AMVETS Department of Nebraska 
officers. If you receive an email asking to donate gift cards 
for a fundraiser for veterans affected by covid, please do 
not reply! This is a scam! The Department of Nebraska 
only has 2 legitimate fundraisers scheduled at this time and 
they are listed in the events section.
Other
AMVETS Department of Nebraska is in the final stages 
of paperwork for the carillon installation at the Omaha 
National Cemetery.
33

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 35: Department of New Mexico National District VI

Report of Sarah Langley, NEC
Department of New Mexico National District VI
Membership
Post 2017 has 3 new members. no other Post has any new
members.
Programs
post 7, Has passed out and sent 14 ROTC medals, helped 
with putting up flags at the V A Hospital and also helped 
with the Honor Guard at funerals for Veterans. Post 12 said 
that they sent in their NEC report to National. Post 2017 
Have put up flags at the businesses around town. Post 1944 
have done community services for Veterans, ROTC, helped 
with Veterans service claims
Service
None known
Upcoming Events
Post 2017 will take disabled Veterans to a lake for a fun 
day, then a fish fry will have about 70 people on the first 
week-end in Aug, then later in Aug will have Children 
from the children home to a playground for a fun day then 
have hamb. hot dogs for them/
Legislative
See POst 12 report
Communications/PRO
Will try to keep in touch with all the Post in NEW Mexico
Other
Yes Jimmy Curley from 12 is NOT the 6th district Com-
mander.
34

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 36: Department of Washington (Continue) National District VI

Report of Steve Bird, NEC
Department of Washington (Continue) National District VI
Membership
Membership drives and support of Posts have remained 
minimal due to residual effect on membership participation 
following the Covid 19 pandemic.
Programs
The Department Service Foundation has developed a grant 
process for subordinate AMVETS groups to request mon-
etary assistance in support of independent or AMVETS 
National program activities.
The AMVETS National Programs Reporting for Jan-June 
2022 from WA state (11 Posts total -4 =7 Posts reporting= 
64%.)
The Department JROTC/ROTC presentation of AMVETS 
Medals conducted at various programs throughout the 
State.
Service
No change from previous report: The service department 
remains able to continue claims processing. Two recent 
VSO hires on board. The Service Department director is 
working towards possible software changes for claims 
tracking.
The AMVETS Department of Washington Service Depart-
ment currently employs four service officers.
Services are provided under contract with the Washington 
State Department of Veterans 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 mone-
tary benefits through successful claims.
Upcoming Events
Department audit of all accounts will be held July 27th at 
Post 1 in Tacoma, WA.
Legislative
The department’s Legislative Director, Charles (Chuck) 
Wharton, continues to be active as a member of the Wash-
ington Governor’s Veteran Advisory Committee. Mr. 
Wharton is also a member of the Washington State Veter-
ans Legislative Coalition (VLC).
Veteran/Military State Legislative Bill Tracking 20222022 
Regular Legislative Session Veteran / Military Bills
Title and Summary Sponsor
HB 1122
C 258 L 22
State guard retirement age
Eliminates the age restriction for enlistment with the Wash-
ington State Guard. Allows the adjutant general to extend 
the service age of an active member of the Guard under 
certain conditions.
E2SHB 1181
C 191 L 22
Veterans & military suicide
Creates various outreach programs and other services to 
prevent suicide among veterans and military service mem-
bers. Establishes a veterans suicide prevention emblem for 
license plates. Requires certain buildings, bridges, ferries, 
and parks to display a sign with the 988 National Suicide 
Prevention and Mental Health Crisis Hotline. Allows the 
Secretary of State to raise funds for a Washington State 
Global War on Terror Memorial.
SHB 1286
C 5 L 22
Psychology compact
Adopts the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact to 
allow professionals who are licensed in a compact state to 
provide psychological services through the use of telecom-
munication technologies and temporary in-person practice.
ESHB 1357
C 193 L 22
35

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 37: Department of Washington National District VI

Report of Steve Bird, NEC
Department of Washington National District VI
V oters’ pamphlets overseas
Requires county auditors to mail or send a printable elec-
tronic version of the statewide and local voters’ pamphlets 
to service and overseas voters who request them. Contains 
a null and void clause
SHB 1642
C 68 L 22
National guard ed. grants
Modifies eligibility requirements and the award amount for 
the Washington National Guard Postsecondary Education 
Grant program.
ESHB 1733
C 2 L 22
Long-term care/exemptions
Establishes exemptions from the payment of premiums 
under the Long-Term Services and Supports Trust Program 
for certain veterans, spouses and registered domestic part-
ners of military service members, non-immigrant tempo-
rary workers, and employees who work in Washington and 
maintain a primary residence outside of Washington.
SB 5518
C 152 L 22
OT licensure compact
Adopts the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact 
(compact) to allow professionals who are licensed in a 
compact state to provide interstate occupational therapy 
services.
ESSB 5874
C 249 L 22
Military student residency
Expands residency for in-state tuition purposes for active 
duty military, National Guard, reservists, veteran, and de-
pendent students. Includes state-registered domestic part-
ners as eligible dependents of active duty military mem-
bers, National Guard members, reservists, and veterans. 
Adds definitions in the residency statute for “child” and 
“National Guard.” Modifies residency for certain students 
to require that the student must have lived in Washington 
primarily for reasons other than educational purposes for a 
period of one year prior to admission to a higher education 
institution.
SR 8653
S Adopted
Women in the military
Randall Honoring Women’s Army Corps (WAC) and
Women in the military.
Upcoming Events
No change from previous report: The department, through 
the Communications Director has subscribed to Zoom and 
to date held multiple Zoom meetings successfully. During 
COVID-19, the Department purchased a Zoom meeting 
account. Having meetings held frequently, not only assist-
ed in the Department doing their business but also provid-
ed comradery as members became isolated because of the 
pandemic. The Department has extended its Zoom mem-
bership to other Posts, allowing them to meet with Zoom.
Other
The Department of WA. Annual Convention was success-
fully held at
AMVETS Post 1, Tacoma WA. on May 20-21, 22. All 
business meetings were held two weeks prior via Zoom 
video conferencing.
36

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 38: National leaders & staff reports

NATIONAL LEADERS & STAFF REPORTS
National Commander Greg Huen ..................................................................................  38
National First Vice Commander Don Mclean ..............................................................  39
National Second Vice Commander Bill Clark ..............................................................  40
National Third Vice Commander Paul Shipley ............................................................  43
National Ladies Auxiliary President Joan Sirek ............................................................  48
National Riders President John Reando ........................................................................  49
National Judge Advocate Jim King .................................................................................  50
National Executive Directory Joe Chenelly ...................................................................  51
Chief Medical Executive Cherissa Jackson ....................................................................  54
National Membership Director Harry Neal ..................................................................  55
National Programs Director Carol Hebert ..................................................................... 58
National Communications Officer Miles Migliara ........................................................ 61
National Development Officer Katie Kilby ..................................................................... 63
37

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 39: AMVETS National Commander

Report of Greg Huen, NEC
AMVETS National Commander
Fellow Amvets,
This year as National Commander has been filled with numerous events, observances, and upheld Traditions. I’ve traveled
across our great nation visiting many post and apartments. I’ve been honored to present awards to many deserving veterans
within our organization, and serve as a representative outside of our family events.
When it comes to Rolling To Remember, we had another successful turn out. We saw more than 40,000 motorcycle riding
Patriots in Robert F Kennedy Stadium parking lot Memorial Day weekend, and surrounded the ride with largely impactful
demonstrations, protests, and observances. we were honored to have several veterans organizations join us that weekend
as we continued to advocate 4 the accountability of our missing in action and calling for further awareness of the veteran
suicide crisis. We were also able to participate in the National Memorial Day Parade. that weekend will be recognized as a
staple of my time as commander, reading the world’s largest one-day, veteran-related motorcycle demonstration ride.
My advocacy efforts we’re not limited to just rolling to remember, as I delivered testimony on Capitol Hill in early spring.
I spoke with a full V A committee on the plight a veteran suicide, the obstacles are women veterans face during and after
their time the service, and pushed for better approach an execution of holistic wellness-focused programs and resources
when it comes to our nation’s finest.
I’m always proud to represent our organization in as many lights as possible. I was able to attend the Army Navy game in
New York City this year. I also have hosted our Taiwanese allies at headquarters and during Rolling To Remember. They
are with us here at this convention. if you have the chance, please welcome them to New Orleans and thank them for join-
ing us. This is a long upheld friendship that continues to flourish with each year.
I also had the privilege of visiting our AMVETS family in Hawaii to present a Silver Helmet to dr. John Henry Felix. Dr.
Felix has been instrumental in shaping the veteran community in Hawaii. As he is not able to travel, National leadership
instead came to him and bestowed upon him the organization’s highest award. He is above and beyond deserving of it.
Lastly, I addressed many in my home state of Kentucky in July, where I had a testimonial dinner and thank them for their
support. Without that support, my time is National Commander would not have fared as well as it did. I would like to thank
all of you for your support this year.
This concludes my final NEC report as National Commander. Thank you, and God bless American veterans.
38

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 40: AMVETS National 1st Vice Commander

Report of Donald McLean, NEC
AMVETS National 1st Vice Commander
Membership
Hello N E C members and fellow AMVETS. I am sorry to report that membership is down about the same amount as last
year. We had a net loss of 4800 members in that time, sixty percent of those passed away. But we have also gained about
7500 members. Our current total, as of June 30, is 144437. We have also opened 10 new posts with at least 2 others in the
works. However, we have lost 28 for any number of reasons. One of the latest posts to close could not get any member to
hold any office. The previous officers were burnt out and couldn’t continue.
The good news is that posts and departments continue to seek new members by holding member drives and informational
stand outs. We are visible. The biggest event showcasing the organization and what it stands for is R2R, Rolling to Re-
member. At this year’s event we had five times the participation as last year. We signed up 63 veterans. That was great, but
the next day at the National parade, we had a number of groups and individuals seeking information on how to participate
next year. We will be following through.
I have been to numerous military bases and passed out our membership flyers and applications. I have also talked with
retirees and those in TAPS programs about making sure they have a V A claim and offer the ways to start one. I have also
been to many National Guard armoires and talked with them about our organization and told them of the need to have a
claim if they have been “federalized”. Many were unaware of the time frame limits. We have an MOU with the National
Guard, let’s take advantage of it.
I hope everyone has a great convention.
This is my report, Commander, and I move for its acceptance at the proper time.
Membership
None known
Programs
None known
Service
None known
Upcoming Events
None known
Legislative
None known
Communications/PRO
None known
Other
None known
39

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 41: AMVETS National 2nd Vice Commander

Report of Bill Clark, NEC
AMVETS National 2nd Vice Commander
National Commander, National Officers, members of the National Executive Committee and fellow AMVETS
First, let me say, as we provide service(s) to our Veterans and citizens across this great Country, fulfilling the mission and
principles of AMVETS, that this year we have reached 100% reporting for the year. A first for the Programs Department
and could only be accomplished with the hard work of both the Posts and Departments. As you know, the program’s
computer platform is no longer! Until a replacement system is established, we are using an excel format which is saved as
a PDF file. Our AMVETS have adapted and overcame the reporting issues allowing 100% reporting for the year. A new
system is on the horizon, but until then, the excel format will be in use. Evidenced by the 100%, our Posts and Depart-
ments have adapted and overcame reporting issues and continued to march.
The programs department has established, not only a monthly newsletter, but a quarterly zoom meeting. Both of the initia-
tives proved highly successful and will continue to be of high value to the programs department operations.
I want to thank Carol Hebert, National Programs Director and Colondra Etheredge, Programs Assistant (for everything) for
their hard work this past year.
Also, a thank you to Ciara Robinson, Career Center Manager for continuing to ensure that Veterans are employed nation-
wide.
In closing I want to mention that the Freedoms Foundation trip is on for November and we are looking for a few good
chaperones! If you have the time, please volunteer for this most worthwhile program. Also, anyone having an issue with
the current program reporting platform, please Carol or Colondra for help
I have traveled quite a bit this year, and want to express my gratitude to the many courtesies shown to me and the hospi-
tality. We are truly a ‘family organization’ and it is amazing how so many diverse individuals work together to fulfill our
mission.
Commander, this concludes my report and I move for its adoption at the proper time.
40

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 42: AMVETS National 3rd Vice Commander (Continue)

NEC Report of Paul Shipley, NEC
AMVETS National 3rd Vice Commander (Continue)
41

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 43: AMVETS National 3rd Vice Commander (Continue)

NEC Report of Paul Shipley, NEC
AMVETS National 3rd Vice Commander (Continue)
MARCH – JULY 2022
The past three months have been hectic, to say the least, on Capitol Hill. AMVETS kicked off March with powerful
testimony from Commander Greg Heun highlighting the fact that Congress’s number one priority needs to be creating
and funding effective programs and services that significantly reduce suicide.
AMVETS from across the Nation packed the halls of Congress during Legislative Advocacy Week (LAW) whereby
they demanded action on:
- H.R. 4831/S. 2530 The Charitable Equity for Veterans Act, legislation that would allow local AMVETS posts tor
receive tax deductible donations;
- H.R. 4104/S. 1520 The Vanessa Guillen Military Justice Improvement and Increasing Prevention Act, some of the
language AMVETS managed to get included in the NDAA, but the fight continues;
- H.R. 6464 Hear our Heroes Act of 2022, the legislation would help veterans suffering from tinnitus or hearing loss
obtain medical care through the Veterans Administration (V A).
- S. 3017 The Veterans Dental Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2021 will eliminate the current
eligibility restrictions for V A dental care and expand eligibility to all veterans receiving V A health care.
Our AMVETS actions directly resulted in numerous Mem-
bers of Congress further supporting the slate of bills that
our legislative team has been working so hard on. AM-
VETS also hosted our first AMVETS LAW reception at
the Phoenix Park Hotel on Capitol Hill whereby we
awarded Representatives Bergman (Michigan) and Hou-
lihan (Pennsylvania) for their assistance in getting AM-
VETS led legislation across the finish line that will
provide $180 million in funding to non-profits trying
innovative approaches to mental health and suicide; and
will also result in V A pilot programs to try new and novel
approaches. We also awarded Congressional Staffers Pat
McGuigan from the
office of Senator Boozman, and Essam Attia from the
office of Bernie Sanders for their efforts to help veter-
ans, and for supporting AMVET’s legislative agenda.
Our legislative team has continued to press hard on
the Charitable Equity for Veterans Act. We
have made significant progress, but the odds of the
legislation passing this Congress look dim
due to the lack of legislation being considered by
the highly partisan Senate Finance and House
Ways and Means Committees.
42

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 44: AMVETS National 3rd Vice Commander (Continue)

NEC Report of Paul Shipley, NEC
AMVETS National 3rd Vice Commander (Continue)
Unlike the V A committees, these committees pass very little legislation, which is highly contentious when they do. None-
theless, AMVETS is well positioned for the bill to pass when the Committees decide to consider legislation. We recently
also drafted and sent a letter with solid support from our fellow VSOs, which we have attached below. We have also con-
tinued to engage the senior legislators on these committees to garner their support.
Hopefully in short order, Congress will have passed the AMVETS supported PACT Act, a record three times. The PACT
Act is legislation that will dramatically increase healthcare and benefits to veterans who have had toxic exposures. In addi-
tion to expanding V A care eligibility to post-9/11 veterans, the bill creates a framework for the V A to establish presumptive
service connections related to toxic exposures. It also adds 23 burn pit and toxic exposure-related conditions to the
agency’s list of presumptive service connections.
The legislation also expands presumptions related to Agent Orange — mainly used during the Vietnam War — to veterans
who served in Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Guam, among other places. In addition, the bill further strengthens federal
research on toxic exposures and improves the V A’s resources and training for toxic-exposed veterans.
AMVETS was proud to host a rally during Rolling to Remember that showed a consolidated front among the significant
veteran service organizations, including Jon Stewart. In addition to all of the legislation already mentioned, AMVETS has
supported over 53 bills this Congress, also attached below. One recent piece of legislation that is particularly exciting to us
is H.R. 6672, The VSO Support Act, which local AMVETS in New York largely brought about.
The VSO Support Act of 2022 creates an SBA-styled grant program to address the needs of VSO’s as they fight to keep
their facilities open. Specifically, this bill:
- Establishes a $25 million grant program through the V A that allows VSOs to apply for grants of up to $50,000 to keep
their facilities open and operational for the community.
- Eligible VSOs must have experienced a 50% or greater loss in gross revenue collected between 4/1/20-12/31/20 com-
pared to the same period in 2019. Grant funding may be used for Rent, Utilities, Scheduled Mortgage Payments, Scheduled
Debt Payments, and Other ordinary business expenses, such as maintenance, administrative costs, state and local taxes,
insurance payments, and operating leases.
VSOs will submit plans demonstrating the need for funding as well as the use of such funds to the V A Secretary, who will
then prioritize grant allocation based on need. While it is late in the Congress, AMVETS will continue to press for this leg-
islation, as well as the final passage of the PACT Act. There is time for some priorities to be passed, likely in the lame
duck after the election. Our team on Capitol Hill will continue to press hard!
43

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 45: AMVETS National 3rd Vice Commander (Continue)

NEC Report of Paul Shipley, NEC
AMVETS National 3rd Vice Commander (Continue)
44

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 46: AMVETS National 3rd Vice Commander (Continue)

NEC Report of Paul Shipley, NEC
AMVETS National 3rd Vice Commander (Continue)
45

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 47: AMVETS National 3rd Vice Commander (Continue)

NEC Report of Paul Shipley, NEC
AMVETS National 3rd Vice Commander (Continue)
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 Affairs community-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. Y ork Medical Center in Murfreesboro,
Tennessee, as the “Sergeant John Toombs Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Facility” .
H.R. 2789 To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to 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
46

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 48: AMVETS National 3rd Vice Commander

NEC Report of Paul Shipley, NEC
AMVETS National 3rd Vice Commander
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
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
47

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 49: AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary

Report of Joan Sirek, NEC
AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary
National Commander Heun, National Officers, NEC’s, Past National Commanders, Delegates, Members and Guest
Welcome to the 2022 AMVETS and AMVETS National Ladies Auxiliary Convention in New Orleans!
It is with great pleasure I extend greetings to you on behalf of the entire membership of the AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary.
The National Executive Board and Headquarters Staff have worked hard to make this a productive year for AMVETS
Ladies Auxiliary, our Veterans, and our communities.
Throughout the year I’ve had the opportunity to see how the Auxiliary, along with the AMVETS, Sons of AMVETS, Sad
Sacks, Sackettes, Junior AMVETS and AMVETS Riders work together as a family serving Veterans and communities.
Thank you for the friendship and hospitality you have showed me at your Posts, Auxiliaries and Department functions
during my year as your National Ladies Auxiliary President. I’ve visited with many longtime friends and have met many
new friends.
My project has been a joint venture with our National Americanism Chairman, Mary Lanphere, to replace the windows
in MacArthur Hall at Freedoms Foundation. Freedoms Foundation’s mission is to honor our Veterans, educate youth and
communities about the history of our Country and the legacy of Medal of Honor recipients. As a ‘thank you’ for your
support Freedoms Foundation will be placing name plaques on the new windows recognizing your contribution on their
campus.
To Commander Heun, First Lady Dawn, Sons Commander Speigle, his wife Denise, Riders President, John Reando, his
wife Kelly, Junior President Joey Stopyra, Saddest Cathy Argyle and Snappiest Faye Richardson-Green, it has been so
much fun in our travels getting to know you better and working together in support of our Veteran’s. Thank you for all you
do!
It has been a privilege and honor to serve as your National President. This year will be a year I will never forget, all the
beautiful memories and fun we all shared together! I am proud to be a member of this great organization!
Joan Sirek, National President
AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary
2021 – 2022
48

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 50: AMVETS Riders National President

Report of John Reando, RNP9
AMVETS Riders National President
Greetings, AMVETS Family!
I’ve been looking forward to the 77th Annual Convention! I hope everyone had a safe trip in and enjoys a productive
week in New Orleans.
The Riders are on a roll this year! We’ve welcomed approximately 500 new members and chartered 12 new Chapters The
Riders partnership with AMVETS in hosting Rolling to Remember has done a lot to expand our reach throughout the na-
tion. It’s exciting to see this growth! I know it’s only going to grow in size and scope, and I look forward to seeing what
the future of the event brings to this organization and the national awareness of our POW/MIAs and Veteran suicide.
While we struggled with programs reporting after
the National reporting site went down, our Riders
2nd Vice has worked closely with AMVETS staff to
find a solution, and we’re happy to announce that the
Riders have reported 1.7 million dollars in programs
this year, which is OUTSTANDING! I am so proud
of this group of volunteers and all they do for our
Veterans.
I’ve been honored to attend many AMVETS functions
over this past year, including NECs, Veteran’s Day
in Washington, D.C., and wreath-laying at multiple
memorials alongside the AMVETS, Auxiliary, Sons,
and Juniors. Being invited to Hawaii to present the
Silver Helmet award to Dr. John Henry Felix was the
trip of a lifetime! In July we were invited to attend
Commander Heun’s testimonial dinner—Kentucky 95
did an amazing job!
As Riders, we are always AMVETS/Auxiliary/Sons
FIRST!
LRB/LRS
John Reando, RNP9
AMVETS Riders National President
49

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 51: AMVETS National Judge Advocate

Report of Jim King, NEC
AMVETS National Judge Advocate
We’ve had several departments update their bylaws this year. I’m sure there are other departments that could probably do
the same thing. I would suggest that you take time to examine your department bylaws and ensure that there are no con-
flicts with the National Constitution and Bylaws.

At a recent NEC meeting, a question was raised concerning the amount AMVETS is paying for travel using personal vehi-
cles. At that time, I stated that the $0.35 per mile that AMVETS Is paying is actually more than the IRS allowance. I have
included a quote from the IRS directive issued December 17th regarding standard mileage rates.
“IR-2021-251, December 17, 2021

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today issued the 2022 optional standard mileage rates used to calculate
the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business, charitable, medical or moving purposes.
Beginning on January 1, 2022, the standard mileage rates for the use of a car (also vans, pickups or panel trucks) will be:
- 58.5 cents per mile driven for business use, up 2.5 cents from the rate for 2021,
- 18 cents per mile driven for medical, or moving purposes for qualified active-duty members of the Armed Forces, up 2
cents from the rate for 2021 and
- 14 cents per mile driven in service of charitable organizations; the rate is set by statute and remains unchanged
from 2021.”

As always, my office is open as I often say, 24/7. If you need to contact me my email address is jim1941@live.com and
my cell phone number is 410 913 2780.

This concludes my report and I move for its adoption at the proper time
50

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 52: AMVETS National Executive Director (Continue)

Report of Joe Chenelly
AMVETS National Executive Director (Continue)
National Commander Heun, National Officers, members of the National Executive Committee and fellow AMVETS:

Your AMVETS National Headquarters continues working tirelessly to best serve you, all our members and the entire
AMVETS Family.
This has been an extremely challenging year – in many ways, more challenging than during the height of the pandemic.
But through hard work, we are persevering, continuing to serve more veterans than ever.
AMVETS’ signature event, the largest veterans event in the nation, was a smashing success. More than 50,000 patriots
took part in Rolling to Remember 2022, in person, in Washington, D.C. We made a massive impact in veterans advocacy,
reaching millions and millions of Americans with our message, raising awareness of veterans needs and of the AMVETS
organization.
For the first time in recent history, nearly every national veterans service organization – large and small – came together,
standing shoulder to shoulder, on one stage, to demand our federal government keep its promises to veterans and their
families. And it took place on our stage!
In addition to national leaders from more than a dozen VSOs, joining us on our Rolling to Remember stage included Jon
Stewart, actor Robert Patrick, a U.S. senator, and veterans and widows who are suffering or already sustain terrible loss
because of toxic exposure.
The Pass the PACT Act Rally on May 28 made national headlines on the most important weekend of the year. And it
worked! A few days before our rally, the PACT Act appeared defeated in the U.S. Senate because of the large cost. But
our Rally swayed public opinion, inspiring tens of thousands to contact their lawmakers, resulting in an overwhelming
victory in the Senate.
This massive legislation will provide benefits to millions of toxic-exposed veterans & those who care for them. Without
this legislation, most would have died without the care and benefits they earned, in many cases leaving families bankrupt.
I am grateful to the many AMVETS who came into Washington at their own expense to help make the rally and the entire
Rolling to Remember event be an impactful event. On behalf of those who are suffering because of toxic exposure, thank
you for stepping up in such a huge way! We need more of you to make the journey in 2023, please.
But as prefaced early in my report, this year has been especially challenging. We had to change over our entire National
Finance Department toward the end of the first quarter. It took the rest of this fiscal year to recover and there is still a lot
of work to do. I appreciate the patience many you showed us as we worked through serious challenges.
We are coming out of this necessary transition stronger, better managed, more transparent, and much more modern. We
had not modernized our financial controls in a very long time, all while technology was rapidly, constantly improving.
The new system will make our financials more secure, centralized, and accurate. Payments will go out faster. This in-
cludes membership refunds.
Hiring and retention of staff is a nationwide problem, challenging every type of employer, including veterans organiza-
tions. The problem was severe before inflation gripped the nation. Now, it is near crisis levels for National Headquarters
and the National Service Foundation. Average wages for employees in the Washington, D.C, area, are skyrocketing.
Everyone is hiring, as less people are seeking employment.
51

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 53: AMVETS National Executive Director (Continue)

Report of Joe Chenelly
AMVETS National Executive Director (Continue)
Before, a helped wanted ad would garner responses from dozens of qualified applicants. Now, it take multiple ads to get
just a few applicants. New hires are expecting higher salaries than ever, and they largely want to be able to work remote-
ly, at least some of the time.
Finding veterans to hire has been an increasingly challenging task for several years, but now it is nearly impossible when
looking for specific qualifications. We cannot compete with the federal government, defense contractors, and Amazon,
which is hiring thousands in the DC area as it establishes its new headquarters in nearby Northern Virginia.
One possible solution we are examining is relocating our national headquarters out of the D.C. area. As we conduct a
professional analysis, you will be presented with options moving forward.
The National HQ building, which AMVETS owns free and clear, is in need of important repairs and renovations that will
cost several hundreds of thousands of dollars. These include two inoperable air handing units, a complete replacement
of the elevator, needed rewiring throughout, and new windows. These projections do not include any cosmetic work or
renovations to update space to fit present-day usage.
At National Commander Heun’s direction, we are seeking a single-platform system to bring our membership database,
programs reporting, fundraising, and numerous other databases into one place. This will benefit everyone and make us
much more efficient.
Lastly, soaring inflation is crushing us at every turn. This National Convention will cost National about 35% more than
our previous conventions. Similar hikes are expected for our NEC meetings. And general, day-to-day operational costs
throughout the year are way up. We do not have the ability to just raise prices the way corporations do. We aren’t selling
anything to raise prices on to keep up with the increasing costs.
Revenue from Membership Dues covers just a small, shrinking percentage of the National HQ budget, and less dues are
coming in as more and more Annual Members convert to Life Memberships. We are well past due to restructure Life
Memberships.
The two largest veterans service organizations converted to age-based pricing years ago, and they haven’t looked back. In
fact, both intentionally discourage life membership until the veteran has been an annual member for some time.
On the flipside, the third largest VSO no longer offers annual and practically gives away life memberships, in a quest to
gain new members. That effort has not rendered the results their leaders hoped.
Our current Life Membership program has several states in tough places. Numerous Departments have life membership
percentages in the upper 90s, meaning nearly no new due revenue.
National HQ had to adjust several years back to not relying on Membership Dues to sustain operations. Part of that was
doing away with the national magazine. Presently, dues cover the cost of operating the Membership Department and
some of the fall and spring NEC meetings costs. Most everything else NHQ does is paid for by the annual grant from the
AMVETS National Service Foundation. The HEAL program raises funds to cover its costs, and our lobbying efforts are
paid for by fundraising conducted primarily by our lobbying partner.
With a recession seemingly on the horizon, inflation may slow. Prices may come back to earth, or they may not. We are
preparing for both possibilities, but either way it will not be easy. The drop in the stock markets has already negatively
impacted our investments, and a recession is likely to do more damage.
52

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 54: AMVETS National Executive Director

Report of Joe Chenelly
AMVETS National Executive Director
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 
Programs 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.
53

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 55: AMVETS Chief Medical Executive

Report of Cherissa Jackson
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.
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 preven-
tion, 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.
Additionally, we have been asked by SyncMD to host our annual R.O.S.E. event in South Carolina in November 2022.
We continue to have interest in our Suicide Prevention online training including the state of Virginia and other partici-
pants. We encourage everyone to take the training. More to come.
54

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 56: AMVETS National Membership Director (Continue)

Report of Harry Neal
AMVETS National Membership Director (Continue)
National Commander, National Officers, members of the National Executive Committee and fellow AMVETS:
This member year 1 Sept 2021 (June, July, Aug included) to date,7/18/2022, we gained 11,257 new members. 9,188 an-
nual,1862 Life members and 207 Life Conversions. The median age of new members is 58, our overall median age is 69.
905 of our new members are women veterans which is 8% of the total new joins. Women veterans comprise 5% overall
in out rolls which is under the National Average of 11% women in the military (according to V A statistics).
They served during the wars in Grenada, Iraq, and Afghanistan. The face of AMVETS continues to change. What is on
their minds? Toxic burn pits, burning oil wells, depleted uranium dust, chemically contaminated environments. We have
been fighting to get the Pact Bill passed. It’s close. Burn pits are the agent orange of this generation of vets. Be aware of
their concerns, the 58-year-old veteran is choosing AMVETS.
Post online revalidations are working well this year. We are waiting for thirty posts to revalidate. Online revalidation
modifications include adding emails and phone numbers to the receipt emailed to Dept Executive Directors and National.
Post leaders can email membersupport@amvets.org with a member number and request a life conversion. Conversion
Invoices are placed in minutes vs the old method of sending forms and checks to National. Dept and Post leaders can see
all Post information in the database and do real time corrections. Dept leaders now have a consolidated list of all Posts
with the member count and revalidation date when they login and select member roster. Members are beginning to renew
online, saving the Post and Dept work and speeding the process. Members can print a membership card online as they
wait for the post to mail their cards. Each post has an email confirmation contact that gets an email alert when a member
renews online. Refund reports are sent to Posts and Depts as each month closes. The Finance Dept is working on ACH
fund transfers to speed the refunds to Departments. Phase 2 will include the posts.
We average ten support boxes a month to assist Post recruiting efforts. We appreciate the time they are spending recruit-
ing for AMVETS. We will continue the Recruit 5-member drive.
43% of our members do not have emails. Does your post mail a paper newsletter? Are posts doing wellness check phone
calls? Who is reaching out to Dept MALs.? Are you getting the MAL lists from your Department so you can recruit?
Member engagement is essential to retain veterans in AMVETS. The National HQ AMVETS Update and the Nimitz
group Legislative updates are emailed to half of our members. The other half does not have emails. Some Depts have
Newsletters to keep their states aware of the work they are doing. AMVETS competes for attention. Departments Posts
and members, build Facebook pages. Search AMVETS and become friends with other AMVETS posts and members.
AMVETS Rolling to Remember was a success! Roll on its coat tails. John Stewart stumped for the Pact Act at RFK.
The Nation heard the thunder of the biker’s message, We do not leave veterans behind, 22 veteran suicides every day
is a systemic failure to address the mental health needs of veterans.
Talk to a veteran get him to join in our work!
AMVETS hosts the largest veteran’s demonstration in the world, Memorial Day
AMVETS NSO’s submit V A claims free of charge.
AMVETS Career Centers will find seven hundred veterans jobs this year!
AMVETS Heal Team has an online suicide prevention course
55

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 57: AMVETS National Membership Director

Add information about your State and Posts programs. Depts, buy a couple loaner table  covers to help struggling 
posts with recruiting, call Bill at 410-440-4928 to get one with the new Space Force emblem. Has the Dept created a state 
brochure? Do you have combined Post Dept recruiting events? Email membersupport@amvets.org with the date of your 
event and include an address for the support box, with AMVETS brochures, membership applications and co-branded 
bling provided by our partner USAA. Appreciate all you do to help veterans.
This concludes my report and I move for its acceptance. 
Report of Harry Neal
AMVETS National Membership Director
56

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 58: AMVETS National Programs Director (Continue)

National Commander Heun, members of the NEC and distinguished guests,

I want to say Congratulations and Thank you to all the Departments in helping us reach our 100% Department reporting
goal for the period ending 15 July 2022. We adapted and overcame the program reporting issues, we all worked together
as a team to make this happens and it shows how dedicated we are to AMVETS. We have now reported for a whole year
with all departments being 100%. Let us see if we can get more posts now to report, if anyone needs help, please reach
out to our Programs Team we are ready willing and able to assist

We have held our quarterly zoom call with the 2nd Vices and anyone that reports programs, we had anywhere from 33-40
personnel on the call and anywhere from 12-15 states, we included the outgoing and incoming program reporting per-
sonnel along with any posts that are willing to learn, hopefully with a new 2nd Vice coming on board we can continue to
keep this a quarterly or even monthly event. The information is sent out in our monthly programs blast about the meeting
along with other pertinent information. 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.

Our Americanism/AADA program is over, and we will be judging the Contest entries and essays at National Convention,
if anyone is interested in helping out with that, please contact myself or Colondra so we can put you on the list as a vol-
unteer judge. The winners should be announced at the Convention and the list of winners will be posted on the website.
We will include this year the name of the student what state they are from and what post they belong to.
We have been in contact with the Freedoms Foundation for the Spirit of Youth Conference for our 9th grade winners and
the program is on we will be sending 9th grade winners to Freedoms foundation this year. The Dates are 3-6 November
2022 we are looking for chaperones to help with this, if you are interested, please contact the Programs Team. Priority are
our 2022 winners, but, if there are winners from past years and want to go, their name will be put on a list and if available
may have the possibility of attending.

All National Scholarship program are now closed, and awardees are being notified.
.
The Employer of the Year Nominations are now closed, and the awardees will be given out at the National Convention as
well as Programs Awards.
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.
Our Career Center is progressing nicely. In 2021, AMVETS Career Center successfully exceeded the 680 veteran place-
ment goal. Good news, we have received a Grant once again from CODE Call of Duty Endowment. This will enable
us to help place veterans for employment. This is a nationwide program offering free-of-charge assistance to veterans,
transitioning military and their spouses. The Career Team has new titles As of January 1, 2022, the following titles are
assigned:
Ciara Singletary: Chief Veteran Employment Officer
Jazmin Herring: Employment Branding Specialist
Jolicia Ashford and Bumi Ayodele: Veteran Employment Specialist
Report of Carol Hebert
AMVETS National Programs Director (Continue)
57

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 59: AMVETS National Programs Director (Continue)

One important program that everyone should get involved with is Suicide Awareness. There is a Suicide Awareness train-
ing course under the HEAL TEAM Healthcare Advocates then click Projects.

This training can be taken by anyone. I encourage each Department and Post to use this training and publicize Suicide
Prevention to your members.

Programs is currently working on a resource directory for the states to use, if your state has a resource please send the
information to programs @ amvets.org so we can compile the information and get it out to the states.

This is something that is important to all of us! Let us get our communities involved! Who knows, you may get member-
ship out of it!

Rolling to Remember, we came, we saw, and we conquered. It was a great day of camaraderie and a nice day for the ride.
The 2.2 Mile walk conducted Saturday morning was great along with all the appearances we had by many speakers. It
took many months of planning for this event and a lot of volunteers and dedicated workers to accomplish this Awesome
Event. I encourage all of you to come out and volunteer, some of us will be returning every year but if you only come out
for one year its worth the trip.

We are also requesting the Departments and National Districts to send out the information to the posts, to use their chain
of Command. With all the information and training we have been giving out, there should be no reason a post should con-
tact National. But, we are still getting posts contacting us abut issues, so please communicate with your Districts, States,
and posts.
Report of Carol Hebert
AMVETS National Programs Director (Continue)
58

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 60: AMVETS National Programs Director (Continue)

Report of Carol Hebert
AMVETS National Programs Director (Continue)
59

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 61: AMVETS National Programs Director

Report of Carol Hebert
AMVETS National Programs Director
Commander, this concludes my report and I ask for its acceptance at the proper time.
60

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 62: AMVETS Communications Department (Continue)

Report of Miles Migliara, NEC
AMVETS Communications Department (Continue)
Commander Heun, National leaders, NEC representatives, and AMVETS headquarters staff,
AMVETS’ communications department has just onboarded a graphic designer/web developer to assist with print/digital
materials needed throughout the year as well as to start modifying the national website to be more centralized, visually
appealing, and user-friendly. This is a positive step in building the department to its former size.
Projects
Comms is producing a bi-weekly newsletter with information on what is happening at National as well as some post high-
lights and content from our partners and sponsors. To opt-in to this newsletter, please email media@amvets.org.
Comms is working closely with our sponsors/partners as well as AMVETS’ Project Manager in an effort to fulfill contrac-
tual duties and stand out as a veteran organization worth investing in. We are currently raising funds with WD-40 to pro-
vide scholarship opportunities for veterans and recently took part in a Veterans Day campaign with Lowe’s that was highly
successful and appreciated by Lowe’s.
Comms continues to work with Commander Heun to build out and execute a vision for how we can continue to raise gen-
eral awareness of what AMVETS is and how we serve American veterans.
Rolling To Remember 2022
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 outlet 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 stem-
ming from April 1 through June 4:
61

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 63: AMVETS Communications Department

Report of Miles Migliara, NEC
AMVETS Communications Department
In 2021, Rolling To Remember saw 1.5 billion total impressions (any media with Rolling To Remember mentioned) in 
large part due to the story build up to the ride (rejection from Pentagon to stage in parking lot). This drew Nationwide 
attention to the ride. Without that same dramatic twist leading up to the 2022 ride, we saw impressions halved to just over 
710 million, where I anticipate we will see a slow, steady increase each year as the ride becomes bigger. Any newsworthy 
turn of events that happen before the ride will affect total media impressions and reach, much like they did in 2021.
This is my report and I move for its adoption at the proper time.
Miles Migliara
Communications, AMVETS
62

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 64: AMVETS National Development Officer (Continue)

Report of Katie Kilby, NSF NEC
AMVETS National Development Officer (Continue)
Having joined the AMVETS team in late March, I am honored to be able to report on my first three months of service to
this mission. I see it as a privilege to be able to work on fueling AMVETS with the financial resources, partnerships, and
creativity that come from collaborative relationships to ensure the legacy of this work for generations to come.
Thus far, my priority has been researching the current sitrep of the Development Department and working on aligning
strategy for my recommended priorities for this coming year. I’m also working to align that plan in a way that promotes
collaboration and cross-functional annual goals across the organization that we can then support with development
initiatives and strategic partnerships.
First 3 Months:
Since early April, the Development Department has:
• Spent time reviewing SharePoint files dating back to 2019
• Engaged in conversations with our current Direct Mail and agency vendors to determine the current reality and
chart a path forward
o Recommended parting ways with Altus based on financial cost, communication styles, and anecdotal + statistical feedback 
on most popular campaigns
o Recommend celebrating 36 year relationship with Concord Direct, and increasing partnership BUT decreasing the num-
ber of annual campaigns from 12+ to 4-5 quality initiatives with ONE vendor (suggesting calendar, datebook, notecards, etc)
o We met in person with the Concord team in May – including their agency leadership. We are NOT currently under con-
tract with Concord, but have provided the data needed for them to complete an “index” report to evaluate effectiveness and 
provide recommendations. We are slated to have access to a full report later this month.
o Concord has the ability to offer a more robust suite of services than we are currently taking advantage of, and I am rec-
ommending that we sit down with them again this summer to discuss options to align our Development strategy with our 
Marketing Strategy
• Ensure that EVERY campaign (printed, mailed, newsletter, social media, etc) is evaluated to set
ourselves up for cross-functional success across AMVETS. For example:
• Direct Mailings and the bi-weekly should tell stories of impact and membership information while of course 
soliciting contributions
• The podcast should begin to incorporate strategic funding and corporate partnerships,
as well as member highlights and community partnerships
• Although I entered the scene much too late to initiate strategy for Rolling to Remember, I am excited to already
begin laying the groundwork for 2023’s event:
o Diversify financial support for R2R 2023
• Grow relationships with Harley Davidson, Humana, and Lowes
• Steward relationship with Mission BBQ – possible cup campaign and increased vendor
relationship for 2023
63

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 65: AMVETS National Development Officer

Report of Katie Kilby, NSF NEC
AMVETS National Development Officer
• Pursue public and private grant funds to account for 50% of anticipated budget
• Build relationships with like-minded partner organizations and ask for “in-kind” support (water, food, branding, etc) to 
defray overall costs
• Launch digital “Hero Wall” campaign to solicit support from Americans across the country as a build up to R2R 23
o Build out collaborative worksheet document:
• Ensure institutional knowledge
• Improve internal and external comms
• Encourage situational awareness and collaboration/delegation of tasks
• Improve efficiencies and effectiveness with vendors and internal teams
• I’ve been working on an informal “systems audit” to determine existing and recommended tools to increase output and 
effectiveness of our Development Strategy
o Recommend holding off on additional hires and investing in efficiency tools such as:
• Private foundation research tools
• End contract with CharityEngine and migrate data to Springly (all in one nonprofit software)
• We are still encountering a ridiculous number of declined charges, which correlates with decreased individual contribu-
tions, and likely the loss of trust from potential recurring donors
• Many of the features are NOT user friendly/intuitive, and the customer service is lacking at CharityEnginge
• Continue to identify all competing CRMs/software tools within the organization and adopt Springly for Development, 
Comms, and Membership. Possible inclusion of program outcomes to track data and metrics in phase 3.
• Consider possible contractors to assist with grant and copy writing
o Currently, we are not utilizing our CRM to steward individual donors.
In summation, I believe strongly in cross-functional teams and collaboration – both internally and externally. I have
much more to learn about the legacy and structure of this organization, but I’m confident that we can fuel this
organization with financial contributions (from individuals and larger entities), strategic partnerships, and in-kind
donations of resources and services.
I’m excited to earn trust and grow the efficiencies and effectiveness of my department, and appreciate the opportunity
that has been bestowed upon me to help ensure the sustainability of AMVETS for generations to come.
64

View this page in the flipbook

Document page 66: Back cover

Back cover artwork from the supplied report book.

View this page in the flipbook