[House Document 105-60]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]




105th Congress, 1st Session - - - - - - - - - - - House Document 105-60

_______________________________________________________________________


 
         PROCEEDINGS OF THE 97TH NATIONAL CONVENTION OF THE
            VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES

                         [SUMMARY OF MINUTES]




             




          Louisville, Kentucky  : : :  August 17-23, 1996

_______________________________________________________________________


105th Congress, 1st Session - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Document 105-60



                       P R O C E E D I N G S

                              of the

                   97TH NATIONAL CONVENTION OF THE

                       VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS

                         OF THE UNITED STATES

                         [SUMMARY OF MINUTES]



                         Louisville, Kentucky

                          August 17-23, 1996



  March 20, 1997.--Referred to the Committee on National Security and
                        ordered to be printed

                              ____________


                    U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE
                           WASHINGTON : 1997



                   U.S. CODE, TITLE 44, SECTION 1332
      NATIONAL ENCAMPMENTS OF VETERANS' ORGANIZATIONS; PROCEEDINGS 
                     PRINTED ANNUALLY FOR CONGRESS

     The proceedings of the national encampments of the United 
Spanish War Veterans, the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, the American Legion, the Military Order of the Purple Heart, 
the Veterans of World War I of the United States, Incorporated, the 
Disabled American Veterans, and the AMVETS (American Veterans of World 
War II), respectively, shall be printed annually, with accompanying 
illustrations, as separate House documents of the session of the 
Congress to which they may be submitted.

[Approved October 2, 1968.]



                          LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL

   VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES, KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI
                             December, 1996


Honorable Newt Gingrich,
The Speaker U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515

Dear Mr. Speaker:  In conformance with the provisions of Public Law 
No. 620, 90th Congress, approved October 22, 1968, I am transmitting 
to you herewith the proceedings of the 97th National Convention of the 
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, held in Louisville, 
Kentucky, August 17-23, 1996, which is submitted for printing as a 
House document.
     Sincerely,
                                                   Larry W. Rivers     
                                                       Adjutant General




                             TABLE OF CONTENTS

                                                                   PAGE
ANNUAL MEMORIAL SERVICE
SUNDAY, AUGUST 18, 1996

Call to Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   1
Advance of Colors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   1
Invocation  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   1
In Memoriam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   2
Introduction of Speaker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   2
Memorial Address  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   2
Introduction of William D. Chester, Jr. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   5
Presentation of the Chapel of Four Chaplains 
  Legion of Honor Bronze Medallion  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   5
Benediction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   6
Retiring of Colors  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   8

JOINT OPENING SESSION
MONDAY, AUGUST 19, 1996

Advancement of Colors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   9
Invocation  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   9
Introduction - The Honorable Jerry E. Abramson, 
  Mayor, City of Louisville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  10
Greetings - The Honorable Jerry Abramson  . . . . . . . . . . . . .  10
Introduction - The Honorable Stephen L. Henry, 
  Lieutenant Governor of Kentucky . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  11
Greetings - The Honorable Stephen L. Henry, 
  Lieutenant Governor of Kentucky . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  11
Presentation of American Flag Sets  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  13
Introduction of Commander-in-Chief Spera  . . . . . . . . . . . . .  14
Remarks - Commander-in-Chief Spera  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  15
Presentation of Awards to 1995-'96 All American Commanders 
  and National Program Winners  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  16
Secretary of Veterans Affairs, The Honorable Jesse Brown  . . . . .  23
Address by Secretary Jesse Brown  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  23
Presentation of VFW Gold Medal of Merit and Citation 
  to Ladies Auxiliary President Helen Lenehan   . . . . . . . . . .  28
Response - Ladies Auxiliary President Helen Lenehan . . . . . . . .  29
Introduction of the Honorable Sonny Montgomery  . . . . . . . . . .  31
Response - The Honorable G. V. ``Sonny'' Montgomery . . . . . . . .  32
Introduction - Dean Hoke, Chief Operating Officer 
  of the Military Channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  35
Remarks - Dean Hoke, CEO, The Military Channel  . . . . . . . . . .  36
Introduction of Lieutenant General Lu Chao, VACRS Vice Chairman . .  38
Response - Lieutenant General Yu Chao . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  38
Introduction - David Christiansen, Founder of Flags of Freedom 
  Foundation  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  39
Remarks - Mr. David Christiansen  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  40
Introduction of Lieutenant General Kap-Jin Choi, 
  Korean Veterans Association . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  42
Remarks - Lieutenant General Kap-Jin Choi . . . . . . . . . . . . .  42
Introduction - MOC Supreme Commander Gary Strauss . . . . . . . . .  43
Remarks - MOC Supreme Commander Gary Strauss  . . . . . . . . . . .  43
RECESS  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  44

DISTINGUISHED GUESTS BANQUET
AUGUST 19, 1996

Pledge of Allegiance  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  44
Invocation  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  44
Introduction of Master of Ceremonies  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  44
Introduction of Commander-in-Chief Paul A. Spera  . . . . . . . . .  45
Presentation of VFW Hall of Fame Award, Gold Medal and 
  Citation to Billy Ray Cyrus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  47
Response - Mr. Billy Ray Cyrus  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  47
Presentation of the Dwight David Eisenhower Distinguished 
  Service Medal and Citation to General William C. Westmoreland . .  48
Response and Principal Address - General William C. Westmoreland  .  49
Benediction - National Chaplain Kell  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  52
RECESS  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  52

FIRST BUSINESS SESSION
TUESDAY MORNING, AUGUST 20, 1996

Call to Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  53
Salute to the Colors  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  53
Opening Prayer  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  53
Report of Credentials Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  53
Report of Committee on Convention Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  53
Introduction - Lieutenant General Prabandh Itdhikul . . . . . . . .  56
Response - Lieutenant General Prabandh Itdhikul, 
  War Veterans Organization of Thailand . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  56
Presentation of VFW News Media Award, Gold Medal and Citation . . .  58
Response - Mr. Al Santol  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  59
Presentation of Commander-in-Chief Special Award 
  to Mr. Mack Fleming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  61
Response - Mr. Mack Fleming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  62
Introduction of Brigadier General Wilma  Vaught, USAF (Ret.)  . . .  63
Remarks - Brigadier General Wilma Vaught  . . . . . . . . . . . . .  63
Report of Committee on National By-Laws, 
  Manual of Procedure and Ritual  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  64
Presentation of VFW Armed Forces Award, Gold Medal and 
  Citation to General H. Hugh Shelton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  76
Response - General H. Hugh Shelton  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  77
Introduction of the Honorable Jack Kemp . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  79
Address - The Honorable Jack Kemp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  79
Remarks by General Colin Powell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  81
Address by the Honorable Robert Dole  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  83
Report of Committee on National By-Laws, 
  Manual of Procedure and Ritual (Cont'd.)  . . . . . . . . . . . .  90
RECESS  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
RECESS  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
RECESS  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111

SECOND BUSINESS SESSION
WEDNESDAY MORNING, AUGUST 21, 1996

Call to Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
Salute to the Colors  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
Opening Prayer  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
Report of Credentials Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
Introduction of Milton Metz, March of Dimes Representative  . . . . 112
Presentation - Milton Metz  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Report of Committee on National Bylaws, 
  Manual of Procedure and Ritual (Cont'd.)  . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Report of Committee on Finance and Internal Organization  . . . . . 115
Presentation of J. Edgar Hoover Award, Gold Medal and Citation  . . 129
Response - Officer Joseph Alu, Sr.  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
Response - Mr. Ken Porio  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
Response - Ms. Jackie Eagle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Presentation of VFW Emergency Services Award, 
Gold Medal and Citation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Response - Lieutenant Michael P. Peery  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
Introduction of James L. Brazee, Vietnam Veterans of America, Inc.. 134
Address - Mr. James L. Brazee, Jr.  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
Presentation of VFW Americanism Award to Mr. James Lee Witt . . . . 136
Response - Mr. James Lee Witt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
Report of Committee on National Security and Foreign Affairs  . . . 138
Report of POW-MIA Subcommittee  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
RECESS  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
Introduction of Vice-President Al Gore, Jr. . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
Address - Vice-President Al Gore  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141
Presentation of Field Contests and VFW Color Guard  . . . . . . . . 148
Report of POW-MIA Subcommittee  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149
Report of Committee on National Security 
  and Foreign Affairs (Cont'd.) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153
Report of Committee on General Resolutions  . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
Report of Committee on Veterans Service Resolutions . . . . . . . . 159
Report of Committee on Americanism and Community Activities . . . . 165
Presentation of Buddy Poppy Winners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166
Winners of Insurance Drawing  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166
Salute to the Colors  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167
RECESS  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167

THIRD BUSINESS SESSION
THURSDAY MORNING, AUGUST 22, 1996

Call to Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168
Salute to the Colors  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168
Pledge of Allegiance  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168
Opening Prayer  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168
Report of Credentials Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168
Presentation of ``Consecutive Years of Membership'' 
  Citation to the Department of Florida . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168
Introduction of Syddia Lee-Chee, Department of the Treasury, 
  U.S. Savings Bond  Program  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169
Presentation by Ms. Syddia Lee-Chee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170
Presentation of Golden Eagle Award to Commander-in-Chief Spera 
  by the VFW Political Action Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171
Introduction of Ladies Auxiliary President Helen Lenehan  . . . . . 172
Response - Ladies Auxiliary President  Lenehan  . . . . . . . . . . 173
Introduction of Mr. James Chancellor  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174
Presentation of Military Service Rings by Mr. Chancellor  . . . . . 174
Presentation of James C. Gates Distinguished Service Award  . . . . 177
Response - Mr. Richard Gray . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178
Presentation of Employer of the Year Award/Large to DynCorp, 
  Fort Hood, Texas  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179
Response - Mr. Harry Frazier  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180
Introduction of the Honorable Ross Perot  . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180
Address - The Honorable H. Ross Perot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 181
Presentation of Small Employer of the Year Award  . . . . . . . . . 189
Response - Mr. Tom Stitt  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190
Presentation of Local Office of the Public Employment 
  Service Award . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191
Response - Mr. Mike Olen  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191
Presentation of Distinguished Service Award, 
  Gold Medal and Citation to Past Commander-in-Chief Allen F. Kent. 192
Response - Past Commander-in-Chief Kent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193
Distinguished Service Award, Gold Medal and Citation to 
  Past Commander-in-Chief, James Currieo  . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193
Response - Past Commander-in-Chief Currieo  . . . . . . . . . . . . 195
Outstanding VA Health Care Provider Award . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195
Response - Mr. Santo Trombetta  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196
Outstanding Health Care Provider Award  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197
Response - Ms. Yvonne Toth  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197
Outstanding Volunteer Award . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198
Response - Comrade Joseph Schirmers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198
Outstanding Post Service Officer Award  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199
Response - Comrade Dennis Cauley  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200
Introduction of Past Commanders-in-Chief  . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200
Introduction of National Sergeant-at-Arms . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200
Visit of National Home Representatives  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201
Remarks by 1996 Buddy Poppy Child . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202
Nomination of Commander-in-Chief  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202
Nomination of Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief  . . . . . . . . . . . 204
Nomination of Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief  . . . . . . . . . . . 206
Nomination of Quartermaster General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207
Nomination of Judge Advocate General  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 208
Nomination of Surgeon General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209
Nomination of National Chaplain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 210
Winners of Insurance Drawing  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211
Closing Prayer  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211
Salute to the Colors  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211
RECESS  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212

FOURTH BUSINESS SESSION
FRIDAY MORNING, AUGUST 23, 1996

Call to Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212
Salute to Colors and Pledge of Allegiance . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212
Opening Prayer  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212
Final Report of Credentials Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213
Completion of Convention Business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213
Nominations for National Home Trustees  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 214
Election of Officers  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 215
Announcement of Council Members-Elect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218
Announcement of Appointments by Commander-in-Chief-Elect  . . . . . 219
Installation of Officers  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219
Presentation of Past Commander-in-Chief Lapel Pin and Gold Life 
  Membership Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 223
Closing Ceremonies  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 229
Retiring of Colors  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 229
Closing Prayer  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 230
Adjournment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 230




            COMMANDERS-IN-CHIEF, VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS
                        OF THE UNITED STATES

(Including societies that amalgamated to form Veterans of Foreign Wars)

        The Veterans of Foreign Service and the Army of the Philippines 
amalgamated at Denver, CO, August 1913, forming the Veterans of Foreign 
Wars as it is today. However, the birth of the order dates from 
September 29, 1899, when the first national officers were elected and 
the eligibility clause adopted. The original chapter was granted 
October 11, 1899.

                        * indicates deceased

                 American Veterans of Foreign Service

1899-1900  James C. Putnam*..................Elected at Columbus, Ohio.
1900-1901  Maj. Will S. White*...............Elected at Columbus, Ohio.
1901-1902  Maj. Will S. White*...............Elected at Columbus, Ohio.
1902-1903  James Romanis*.......Elected at Washington Courthouse, Ohio.
1903-1904  James Romanis*..................Elected at Cincinnati, Ohio.
1904-1905  James Romanis*..................Elected at Cincinnati, Ohio.
1905-1906  George Metzger*............Elected at Altoona, Pennsylvania.
1906-1907  Charles H. Devereaux*...........Elected at Cincinnati, Ohio.
1907-1908  David T. Nevin*.........Elected at James Exposition Grounds,
                                                              Virginia.
1908-1909  J. Alfred Judge*...........Elected at Lebanon, Pennsylvania.
1909-1910  J. Alfred Judge*........Elected at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
1910-1911  Robert J, Woodside*......Elected at Jersey City, New Jersey.
1911-1912  Robert J, Woodside*...Elected at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
1912-1913  Robert J, Woodside*.....Elected at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

                American Veterans of Foreign Service
                          (Eastern Branch)

1903-1904  Capt. Robert S. Hansburg*..Elected at Altoona, Pennsylvania.
1904-1905  H.O. Kelly*.............Elected at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

  (The above two organizations amalgamated September 1905, at Altoona, 
                           Pennsylvania.)

                       Army of the Philippines

1900-1901  Gen. Francis V. Greene *........Elected at Denver, Colorado.
1901-1902  Gen. Irving Hale *..........Elected at Salt Lake City, Utah.
1902-1903  Gen. Irvin Hale *...........Elected at Council Bluffs, Iowa.
1903-1904  Gen. Charles King *..........Elected at St. Paul, Minnesota.
1904-1905  Gen. Wilder S. Metcalf *.....Elected at St. Louis, Missouri.
1905-1906  Col. Alfred S. Frost *.........Elected at Chicago, Illinois.
1906-1907  Gen. Arthur MacArthur *.........Elected at Des Moines, Iowa.
1907-1908  Capt. H.A. Crow *..........Elected at Kansas City, Missouri.
1908-1909  Maj. P.J.H. Farrell *........Elected at Galesburg, Illinois.
1909-1910  Col. Charles L. Jewett*.Elected at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
1910-1911  A.H. Anderson *................Elected at Chicago, Illinois.
1911-1912  F. Warner Karling *...........Elected at Detroit, Michigan. 
1912-1913  F. Warner Karling *............Elected at Lincoln, Nebraska.



          Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States

1913-1914  Rice W. Means*..................Elected at Denver, Colorado.
1914-1915  Thomas Crago *...........Elected at Pittsburg, Pennsylvania.
1915-1916  Gus Hartung*...................Elected at Detroit, Michigan.
1916-1917  Albert Rabin*..................Elected at Chicago, Illinois.
1917-1918  William Ralston*..............Elected at New York, New York.
1918-1919  F. Warner Karling*........Elected at Minneapolis, Minnesota.
1919-1920  F. Warner Karling*......Elected at Providence, Rhode Island.
1920-1921  Robert G. Woodside*..............Elected at Washington, D.C.
1921-1922  Robert G. Woodside*............Elected at Detroit, Michigan.
1922-1923  Tillinghast Huston*..........Elected at Seattle, Washington.
1923-1924  Gen. Lloyd M. Brett*...........Elected at Norfolk, Virginia.
1924-1925  John H. Dunn*..........Elected at Atlantic City, New Jersey.
1925-1926  Fred Stover*.....................Elected at Tulsa, Oklahoma.
1926-1927  Theodore Stitt*...................Elected at El Paso, Texas.
1927-1928  Frank T. Strayer*.......Elected at Providence, Rhode Island.
1928-1929  Eugene P. Carver*..........Elected at Indianapolis, Indiana.
1929-1930  Kezekiah N. Duff*............Elected at St. Paul, Minnesota.
1930-1931  Paul C. Wolman*..............Elected at Baltimore, Maryland.
1931-1932  Darold D. DeCoe*...........Elected at Kansas City, Missouri.
1932-1933  Adm. Robert E. Coontz*....Elected at Sacramento, California.
1933-1934  James E. Van Zandt*.........Elected at Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
1934-1935  James E. Van Zandt*.........Elected at Louisville, Kentucky.
1935-1936  James E. Van Zandt*........Elected at New Olreans, Louisiana
1936-1937  Bernard W. Kearny*..............Elected at Denver, Colorado.
1937-1938  Scott P. Squyres*..............Elected at Buffalo, New York.
1938-1939  Eugene I. Van Antwerp*............Elected at Columbus, Ohio.
1939-1940  Otis N. Brown*.............Elected at Boston, Massachusetts.
1940-1941  Joseph C. Menendez*......Elected at Los Angeles, California.
1941-1942  Max Singer*...........Elected at Philidelphia, Pennsylvania.
1942-1943  Robert T. Merrill...............Elected at Cincinnati, Ohio.
1943-1944  Carl S. Schoeninger*..........Elected at New York, New York.
1944-1945  Jean A. Brunner*...............Elected at Chicago, Illinois.
1945-1946  Joseph M. Stack*...............Elected at Chicago, Illinois.
1946-1947  Louis E. Starr*............Elected at Boston, Massachusetts.
1947-1948  Ray H. Brannaman*................Elected at Cleveland, Ohio.
1948-1949  Lyall T. Beggs *.............Elected at St. Louis, Missouri.
1949-1950  Clyde A. Lewis....................Elected at Miami, Florida.
1950-1951  Charles C. Ralls*..............Elected at Chicago, Illinois.
1951-1952  Frank C. Hilton...............Elected at New York, New York.
1952-1953  James W. Cothran*........Elected at Los Angeles, California.
1953-1954  Wayne E. Richards*..........Elected at Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
1954-1955  Merton B. Tice*.......Elected at Philidelphia, Pennsylvania.
1955-1956  Timothy J. Murphy*.........Elected at Boston, Massachusetts.
1956-1957  Cooper T. Holt.....................Elected at Dallas, Texas.
1957-1958  Richard L. Roudebush*.......Elected at Miami Beach, Florida.
1958-1959  John W. Mahan.................Elected at New York, New York.
1959-1960  Louis G. Feldmann*.......Elected at Los Angeles, California.
1960-1961  T.C. Connell...................Elected at Detroit, Michigan.
1961-1962  Robert E. Hansen...........Elected at Miami Beach, Florida. 
1962-1963  Byron B. Gentry*.........Elkected at Minneapolis, Minnesota.
1963-1964  Joseph J Lombardo*............Elected at Seattle, Washinton.
1964-1965  John A Jenkins*..................Elected at Cleveland, Ohio.
1965-1966  Andy Borg*.....................Elected at Chicago, Illinois.
1966-1967  Leslie M. Fry*................Elected at New York, New York.
1967-1968  Joseph A. Scerra..........Elected at New Olreans, Louisiana.
1968-1969  Richard W. Homan...............Elected at Detroit, Michigan.
1969-1970  Raymond A. Gallagher..Elected at Philidelphia, Pennsylvania.
1970-1971  Herbert R. Rainwater*.......Elected at Miami Beach, Florida.
1971-1972  Joseph L. Vicites*.................Elected at Dallas, Texas.
1972-1973  Patrick E. Carr...........Elected at Minneapolis, Minnesota.
1973-1974  Ray R. Soden..............Elected at New Olreans, Louisiana.
1974-1975  John J. Stang..................Elected at Chicago, Illinois.
1975-1976  Thomas C. Walker.........Elected at Los Angeles, California.
1976-1977  R.D. Smith Jr.................Elected at New York, New York.
1977-1978  Dr. John Wasylik..........Elected at Minneapolis, Minnesota.
1978-1979  Eric Sandstrom.....................Elected at Dallas, Texas.
1979-1980  Howard E. Vander Clute Jr.Elected at New Olreans, Louisiana.
1980-1981  T.C. Selman*...................Elected at Chicago, Illinois.
1980-1981  Arthur Fellwock........Succeeded T.C.Selman, Oct. 21, 1980.
1980-1981  Arthur Fellwock.......Elected at Philidelphia, Pennsylvania.
1982-1983  James A. Currieo.........Elected at Los Angeles, California.
1983-1984  Clifford C. Olson.........Elected at New Olreans, Louisiana.
1984-1985  Billy Ray Cameron..............Elected at Chicago, Illinois.
1985-1986  John S. Staum......................Elected at Dallas, Texas.
1986-1987  Norman G. Staab..........Elected  at Minneapolis, Minnesota.
1987-1988  Earl L. Stock*............Elected at New Orleans, Louisiana.
1988-1989  Larry W. Rivers................Elected at Chicago, Illinois.
1989-1990  Walter G. Hogan................Elected at Las Vegas, Nevada.
1990-1991  James L. Kimery..............Elected at Baltimore, Maryland.
1991-1992  Robert E. Wallace.........Elected at New Orleans, Louisiana.
1992-1993  John M. Carney.............Elected at Indianapolis, Indiana.
1993-1994  George R. Cramer...................Elected at Dallas, Texas.
1994-1995  Allen F. ``Gunner'' Kent.......Elected at Las Vegas, Nevada.
1995-1996  Paul A. Spera...................Elected at Phoenix, Arizona.



           VFW NATIONAL OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS, 1995-96

Commander-in-Chief........................................Paul A. Spera
Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief............................James E. Nier
Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief.............................John E. Moon
Adjutant General........................................Larry W. Rivers
Quartermaster General....................................Joe L. Ridgley
Judge Advocate General................................E. Spencer Walton
Surgeon General.................................Curtis O. Bohlman, M.D.
National Chaplain.....................................Rev. Lyle N. Kell
National Chief of Staff...................................John W. Smart
Inspector General...................................Leroy Williams, Jr.
Assistant Adjutant General & Executive Dir., 
  Washington Office....................................James R. Currieo
Assistant Adjutant General, Administration............John J. Senk, Jr.
Assistant Adjutant General, Programs...................W. Benny Bachand
Assistant Quartermaster General.......................Lawrence M. Maher
Director, Accounting....................................Gary Housknecht
Director, Administrative Services.....................Lawrence LeFebvre
Director, Americanism & Community Activities.......Michael J. Gormalley
Director, Emblem & Supply Department..................M.L. ``Bud'' Cale
Director, General Services............................David L. Swindler
Director, Insurance Programs................................Robert Crow
Director, Marketing Services.........................Ronald G. Browning
Director, Membership.....................................Thomas Kissell
Director, National Convention............................Joseph D. Ross
Director, Post Services & Buddy Poppy..................James R. Rowoldt
Director, Publications & Editor, VFW Magazine...........Richard K. Kolb
Director, Public Affairs, Kansas City.................Steve Van Buskirk
Director, Purchasing & Life Membership.................Robert B. Greene
Director, VFW Foundation..........................Robbie Fazen Marchant
Director, VFW Properties..............................Billy R. Weissend
Director, Voice of Democracy, 
  Youth Activities & Safety...........................Gordon R. Thorson
National Service Officer & 
  Director, National Veterans Service.............Frederico Juarbe, Jr.
Director, National Legislative Service..................James N. Magill
Director, National Security & Foreign Affairs.......Kenneth A. Steadman
Director, Political Action Committee...................M. Kelly Goddard
Director, Public Affairs, Washington Office............William G. Smith
Director, Veterans Employment........................... Sidney Daniels
Administrative Assistant to Adjutant General...........Russell Cutright
Administrative Assistant to Washington Office..........Edward L. Andrew




                      REGIONAL NATIONAL COUNCIL OF 
                    ADMINISTRATION MEMBERS, 1995-96

DISTRICT   1    (ME, NH, VT)..............................Arthur J. Roy
DISTRICT   2    (MA, CT)...........................Edward S. Banas, Sr.
DISTRICT   3    (MD, RI)............................Armondo C. Azzinaro
DISTRICT   4    (DC, DE, EU).......................Benjamin Pernol, Jr.
DISTRICT   5    (IN, MO).................................John L. Dahman
DISTRICT   6    (VA, WV)............................George E. McCracken
DISTRICT   7    (TN, KY)..................................Roy C. Womble
DISTRICT   8    (GA, AL)..........................Charles B. Stephenson
DISTRICT   9    (SC, NC)...............................George M. Pullie
DISTRICT  10    (OK, AR)...........................James E. Newman, Sr.
DISTRICT  11    (WI, IA)...............................Bernard J. Boyle
DISTRICT  12    (SD, ND, WY).......................Charles E. Fresorger
DISTRICT  13    (NE, KS)...............................Jack L. Armagost
DISTRICT  14    (MT, WA, ID).........................Randall E. Russell
DISTRICT  15    (NM, CO, AZ)..........................James H. Ferguson
DISTRICT  16    (CE, PAC, AK, HI).......................Norbert K. Enos
DISTRICT  17    (UT, NV, OR)..............................Gary L. Clark
DISTRICT  19    (LA, MS)................................J. Hollis Smith
DISTRICT   A    (Pennsylvania).....................Americo D. DiLoretto
DISTRICT   B    (Illinois)........................Russell R. Rieke, Sr.
DISTRICT   C    (New York).............................Ralph U. DeMarco
DISTRICT   D    (Ohio)....................................Terry A. Roan
DISTRICT   E    (Minnesota)...............................Dean E. Means
DISTRICT   F    (Michigan).................................ayne A. Buck
DISTRICT   G    (California)............................Raymond C. Sisk
DISTRICT   H    (Texas).................................Manuel O. Rivas
DISTRICT   I    (New Jersey)..........................George J. Lisicki
DISTRICT   J    (Florida).............................Eugene R. Manfrey
Past Commander-in -Chief..................................Allen F. Kent



              

                             Paul A. Spera
                           Commander-in-Chief
                                1995-96



              

                             James E. Nier
                           Commander-in-Chief
                                1996-97



              VFW NATIONAL OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS, 1996-97

Commander-in-Chief........................................James E. Nier
Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief.............................John E. Moon
Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief.........................Thomas A.Pouliot
Adjutant General........................................Larry W. Rivers
Quartermaster General....................................Joe L. Ridgley
Judge Advocate General................................Leonard R. Herrst
Surgeon General..........................................Robert W. Reif
National Chaplain....................................William J. Bleiler
National Chief of Staff....................................Bill E. Lark
Inspector General...................................Charles R. Stephens
Assistant Adjutant General & Executive Dir., 
  Washington Office.................................Kenneth A. Steadman
Assistant Adjutant General, Administration............John J. Senk, Jr.
Assistant Adjutant General, Programs...................W. Benny Bachand
Assistant Adjutant General, Marketing................Ronald G. Browning
Assistant Quartermaster General.......................Lawrence M. Maher
Director, Administrative Services.....................Lawrence LeFebvre
Director, Americanism & Community Activities.......Michael J. Gormalley
Director, Emblem & Supply Department.................M. L. ``Bud'' Cale
Director, Finance and Human Resources..................Robert B. Greene
Director, Insurance Programs................................Robert Crow
Director, Membership..................................Thomas L. Kissell
Director, Membership Reporting/State Coordinator........Gary Housknecht
Director, National Convention............................Joseph D. Ross
Director, Post Services & Buddy Poppy..................James R. Rowoldt
Director, Publications & Editor, VFW Magazine...........Richard K. Kolb
Director, Public Affairs..............................Steve Van Buskirk
Director, VFW Foundation..........................Robbie Fazen Marchant
Director, VFW Properties..............................Billy R. Weissend
Director, Voice of Democracy, 
  Youth Activities & Safety...........................Gordon R. Thorson
National Service Officer & Director, 
  National Veterans Service.......................Frederico Juarbe, Jr.
Director, National Legislative Service..................James N. Magill
Director, Political Action Committee...................M. Kelly Goddard
Director, Public Affairs, Washington Office............William G. Smith
Director, Veterans Employment............................Sidney Daniels
Administrative Assistant, Kansas City...............Russell R. Cutright
Administrative Assistant, Washington Office....Edward L. ``Leo'' Andrew



     REGIONAL NATIONAL COUNCIL OF ADMINISTRATION MEMBERS, 1996-97

DISTRICT   1   (ME, NH, VT)...............................Arthur J. Roy
DISTRICT   2   (MA, CT)...............................William J. Madera
DISTRICT   3   (MD, RI).............................Armondo C. Azzinaro
DISTRICT   4   (DC, DE, EU)............................Bruce A. Withers
DISTRICT   5   (IN, MO)..................................John L. Dahman
DISTRICT   6   (VA, WV).................................Scottie E. King
DISTRICT   7   (TN, KY)...................................Roy C. Womble
DISTRICT   8   (GA, AL)..................................Oliver W. Dial
DISTRICT   9   (SC, NC)................................George M. Pullie
DISTRICT  10   (OK, AR).................................Leslie F. Thone
DISTRICT  11   (WI, IA)................................Bernard J. Boyle
DISTRICT  12   (SD, ND, WY).......................William F. Cerny, Jr.
DISTRICT  13   (NE, KS)................................Jack L. Armagost
DISTRICT  14   (MT, WA, ID)...............................Earl E. Chase
DISTRICT  15   (NM, CO, AZ)...........................James H. Ferguson
DISTRICT  16   (CE, PAC, AK, HI)..........................Dannie Cooper
DISTRICT  17   (UT, NV, OR)...............................Gary L. Clark
DISTRICT  19   (LA, MS).................................J. Hollis Smith
DISTRICT   A   (Pennsylvania)......................Americo D. DiLoretto
DISTRICT   B   (Illinois).........................Russell R. Rieke, Sr.
DISTRICT   C   (New York)..............................Ralph U. DeMarco
DISTRICT   D   (Ohio)...................................George W. Marks
DISTRICT   E   (Minnesota)...............................Gordon W. Kirk
DISTRICT   F   (Michigan).................................Wayne A. Buck
DISTRICT   G   (California).............................Raymond C. Sisk
DISTRICT   H   (Texas)................................Ferrell E. Warden
DISTRICT   I   (New Jersey)...........................George J. Lisicki
DISTRICT   J   (Florida)..............................Eugene R. Manfrey
Past Commander-in-Chief...................................Paul A. Spera



                           SUMMARY OF PROCEEDINGS 
                    OF THE 97TH NATIONAL CONVENTION OF THE
                VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES
                  LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY AUGUST 18-23, 1996

                          ANNUAL MEMORIAL SERVICE

                          SUNDAY, AUGUST 18, 1996

     (The Memorial Service of the 97th Annual Convention of the 
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, held at the Commonwealth 
Convention Center, Louisville, Kentucky, was called to order at 8:30 
o'clock a.m., with Commander-in-Chief Paul A. Spera, presiding.  The 
Gold Star Parents, Gold Star Wives, National Officers and Past National 
Chaplains were escorted by the Department of Kentucky Ladies Auxiliary.)

                               CALL TO ORDER

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Sergeants-at-Arms, you will prepare the 
room for the advancement and posting of the Colors.

                             ADVANCE OF COLORS

(Whereupon, the VFW National Honor Guard advanced the Colors, followed 
by the Pledge of Allegiance.)

                                 INVOCATION

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF KENT: Will you, please, stand for the 
Invocation by our National Chaplain. 
     VFW NATIONAL CHAPLAIN LYLE N. KELL:  Let us pray. Our Heavenly 
Father, as we meet here for this solemn occasion today, we believe that 
it is very adequate remembering the lives of thousands upon thousands 
of men and women that have given so that we can have the freedom that 
we have.
     We praise you, God, for giving us these freedoms.  We praise you 
for letting us live, but we come with tears in our heart for those 
families that have lost loved ones and thankful for those men and women 
that gave their lives for our country.
     We ask your blessings on this solemn occasion.  Touch each of our 
hearts in a very special way as only you, God, can do.  We will praise 
you forever more.  Amen.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Invocation was given by the 
Reverend Lyle Kell. Please remain standing and join me now in the Star 
Spangled Banner.
     (Whereupon, the National Anthem was played at this time.)
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  We will now have a selection from the 
Master's Men Chorale.
     (Whereupon, the Master's Men Chorale sang the ``Battle Hymn of the 
Republic.'')

                             IN MEMORIAM

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Comrades, Ladies of the Auxiliary and 
Friends:  We have met at this time to commemorate our comrades of the 
United States Armed Forces who have answered the last call.  The VFW 
Ritual provides that the audience shall refrain from applauding.  The 
Chief of Staff will see that there are no disturbances during this 
ceremony.
     NATIONAL CHIEF OF JOHN SMART:  Comrade Commander-in-Chief, your 
order will be obeyed.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  I request that the National Chaplain 
preside. 
     (National Chaplain Lyle N. Kell presided during the Memorial 
Services performed by the National Officers in accordance with the 
Ritual.)
     (At the conclusion of the Memorial Service, the Master's Men 
Chorale led the assembly in singing ``America.'')

                        INTRODUCTION OF SPEAKER

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  It is my honor at this time to 
introduce our Memorial Address speaker.  Rear Admiral A. Bryon 
Holderby is the Deputy Chief of Chaplains of the United States Navy. 
     Chaplain Holderby received his Master of Divinity degree in 1963 
from the Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary in Columbia, South 
Carolina.  Following his ordination in the Evangelical Lutheran Church 
in America.
     Chaplain Holderby received his Master of Counseling degree from 
the University of North Florida in Jacksonville, Florida. Chaplain 
Holderby was commissioned into the Naval Reserve in 1967.  Beginning 
his active naval duty ministry in that same year, he has served in 
various overseas and state side assignments, to include his present 
assignment of the Deputy Chief of Chaplains since 1994. 
     His awards and decorations include the Legion of Merit, Meritorious 
Service Medal, three Navy Commendation Medals, the Navy Achievement 
Medal, the National Defense Service Medal and Meritorious Unit Citation 
and the Vietnam Service Medal. Chaplain Holderby is married to the 
former Barbara Clark Thiel. They have two daughters and five 
grandchildren.
     Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in giving a warm welcome to 
Chaplain Holderby.

                          MEMORIAL ADDRESS

     REAR ADMIRAL HOLDERBY:  Good morning, ladies and gentlemen.  It is 
good that you are here, that we can be here together to honor American 
men and women who fought in defense of freedom of our land around the 
world.
     I am a little overwhelmed by the sacredness of this moment, if you 
will, as you and I recall all that has been given for the sake of a 
peaceful world.
     My office in Washington, D.C. overlooks Arlington National 
Cemetery where the bodies of men and women just like you and me lie.  
We can't help but think of the fact that they had the same concerns, 
the same hopes and disappointments and triumphs, tears and laughter and 
loves that we all have. Somewhere in that cemetery there may lie a 
person who could have discovered the cure for cancer or found a way to 
stop wars forever.  But instead they lie silently in that sacred soil 
as our memories.  Some of us may live today because they died.  It is 
only fitting that we honor them. 
     Let us not, however, fail to honor one another.  That we live 
while others died was not our decision, it was God's.  God calls us 
sometimes to a playground and sometimes to a battleground, and we have 
done our best with God's help to respond.  Not a single one of you feel 
that you have in any way done less.  You were there.
      Let us remember, too, to honor those who wore no uniform, stepped 
on no battlefield, but whose pain and fear and sacrifice were every bit 
as great, our families, our loved ones.  Finally, this morning, let us 
honor America, the great experiment, the dream of the oppressed, the 
beacon of hope for all people around the world.
      The words we speak here today, the feelings, the memories are all 
very real.  There is a tendency in our world today not to trust words 
too much.  It is said that Lyndon Johnson, in the course of his 
campaign, told some small farmers that he understood their problem 
because he was a rancher himself.
     One of the farmers said, ``Well, how big is your place?''
     ``Oh, it's big,'' said Johnson in his Texas drawl.  ``It is really 
big.  I can get in my car in the morning and the sun is up and I can 
drive all day long and at sundown I am just getting to the other side 
of my property.''
     ``Yeah,'' relied one of the farmers, ``I know how that is.  I had 
a car like that once myself.'' Our words, our memories, our feelings 
are real.
     Certainly, it is true that our world is not perfect. Some even 
despair that it's close to being broken.  The question is occasionally 
asked, ``Is this society what we fought to preserve?''  The answer 
seems to be yes and no.  We didn't fight to preserve what is wrong 
in our society, but there is so much good in it and maybe, just maybe, 
you and I have been spared, been left on this earth to build on the 
good and try and change that which isn't good.
     In a Calvin and Hobbes' cartoon, Calvin says, ``You could step in 
the road tomorrow and, wham, you get hit by a cement truck.  That's why 
my motto is `Live for the Moment.' What's your motto?''  Hobbes 
answered: ``Look down the road.''
     I think that is part of what we are here to do today. To not only 
pay tribute to the men and women who have served our country well, but 
to look down the road.  To agree on ways we can keep faith with those 
that fought before us and with each other by making a difference in our 
society today, not just for ourselves, but for a world that looks to us 
still as a place where justice and human worth are valued and 
protected.
     Last year the Chief of Chaplains, Don Muchow, was in Warsaw, 
Poland, at a gathering of church and military leaders of the NATO 
countries and former Soviet bloc nations.  During that meeting, he was 
sitting next to a Polish Army General that said to him, ``My wife and I 
were married by a priest in the woods, and our children were baptized 
in the forest.  The Soviets may have occupied our land,'' he said, 
``but they never took over our hearts.''
     But even more telling were the words of the former Director of the 
Soviet KGB who in a meeting in Washington said to our Chiefs of 
Chaplains of the three services, ``I need you to help us establish a 
Chaplain Corps.  I have soldiers who can't tell the truth or keep a 
promise.  I have soldiers who have no moral compass.''
     All around the world people look to this country for hope.  This 
country that you have fought to preserve, this country whose good you 
now fight to uphold.  Not a perfect place, seemingly beset with crime 
and self-interest, our weapons are these.
     To be people of integrity, Stephen Carter of Harvard University 
defines integrity this way: ``First,'' he writes, ``you must decide 
between right and wrong.  Then you must live by that decision even at 
personal cost, and finally you must proclaim that the basis for what 
you are doing is your commitment to do what you know to be right.''
     In short, we must do what we say we are.  Then our words can be 
trusted and carry weight.  The second effective weapon in this fight 
for the right is to accept responsibility for each other.  ``God does 
not comfort us to make us comfortable, but to make us comforters.''  We 
are our brother's and our sister's keeper.  There will be no joy for 
any of us in this world, until there is joy for all of us.  Racism, 
sexism, anything that makes one group superior to another has no place 
in our land.
     An Army Chaplain speaking at the cemetery on the Island of Iwo 
Jima 50 years ago caught the vision perfectly. He said: ``Beneath this 
soil lie people who loved America; rich and poor, white and black, 
Hispanic, native American, Catholics, Jews, Protestants and others.  
Deep in the soil where they lie, there is no discrimination or quotas, 
no hatred, just the purest democracy.  Anyone among us, the living, who 
fails to see that, can betray their sacrifice.  Any one of us who lifts 
a hand in hate against another, or thinks one's self superior to 
another makes of this day a mockery.''
     I think, perhaps, the final weapon needed for a strong America is 
civility.  The acknowledgement that everyone has worth and should be so 
treated.  In a very powerful book  entitled ``Achilles in Vietnam'', 
the author, a psychiatrist named Jonathan Shay, who works with Vietnam 
Veterans, makes this observation: ``The ancient Greeks, warlike as they 
were, did not dishonor the enemy.  We, in our country, have tended to 
do so.  And the price to be paid for that is often disaster.''
     During World War II, the Japanese considered Americans too soft to 
endure the strain of extended submarine duty and so didn't pay too much 
attention to their anti-submarine capability and it cost them dearly in 
lost shipping. On our side, we considered the Japanese physically and 
mentally inferior, too nearsighted to fly planes effectively and too 
dumb to design good ones, so the Japanese Zeros destroyed out fleet in 
Hawaii and our Air Force in the Philippines.
     But the price to individuals can be terribly high, too, as the 
high rate of post-traumatic stress endured by Vietnam Veterans has 
demonstrated for the past twenty-some years.  The doctor through years 
of treatment of tortured men has concluded that the first step in 
recovery is to restore honor to the enemy.
     ``For,'' he says, ``a veteran's self-respect never fully recovers 
so long as he is unable to see the enemy as worthy.''  And in like 
manner, citizens cannot enjoy real self-respect so long as they are 
unable to respect their neighbors.  So these weapons, integrity, a 
sense of responsibility for each other and civility can have real 
impact on the pain in our society.  But as powerful as they are, they 
will fail if used simply to restore a sense of calm and lack of 
conflict.
     We are a powerful, compassionate, caring nation, truly a beacon of 
hope for the world.  But a nation struggling to be even more, to be 
what we set out to be, a land of opportunity, of restraint, a peaceful 
country with liberty and justice for all.
     To be this, to be all that we can be as the slogan goes, we must 
understand ourselves as having been put here for that purpose.  Not 
born accidentally in this country but placed here by God to help the 
world by serving the world.
     You, my friends, have been leading the way.  I commend you.  Today 
as we honor the dead and thank the living and the families for their 
courage and commitment and sacrifice, what better way to do it than to 
commit ourselves to the growth and health of our nation under God, the 
hope of the world.
     Thank you, ladies and gentlemen, for letting me share these 
moments with you.
     NATIONAL CHAPLAIN KELL:  We have not been left hopeless, but 
wonderfully hopeful.  That is my word to you.
     (Whereupon, the Master's Men Chorale sang ``America the 
Beautiful.'')

                INTRODUCTION OF WILLIAM D. CHESTER, JR.

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  At this time I would like to introduce 
the State Chaplain of the Chapel of Four Chaplains, William D. Chester, 
Jr.

             PRESENTATION OF THE CHAPEL OF FOUR CHAPLAINS 
                   LEGION OF HONOR BRONZE MEDALLION

     CHAPLAIN WILLIAM CHESTER:  Thank you, Commander-in-Chief, for 
allowing us to be a part of your program.  As State Chaplain for the 
American Legion of Kentucky, memorial services always seem to do 
something for us.  It is good that we always remember those who guide 
and help us.
     I come to you today representing the Chapel of Four Chaplains, 
an organization founded in honor of the four chaplains who on 
February 3, 1943, were on a troop ship, the Dorchester, off the 
coast of Greenland.  Their boat was torpedoed and immediately 
pandemonium broke out.
     There were not enough life jackets to take care of those on deck 
and it was not enough of anything to take care of them, but these four 
chaplains, namely, one Catholic, two Protestants and one Jew, they had 
their life jackets on but they took their life jackets off and gave 
them to four G.I.'s.
     When the ship went down, the story goes that these four chaplains 
were singing, standing arm in arm praying to the God that had meant so 
much to each and every one of us.
     To recognize the many acts of volunteerism, brotherhood and 
sacrifice among Americans of every age, every station of life, the 
chaplains have established its Legion of Honor program.  The bronze 
medallion, which I will present to your Commander-in-Chief in just a 
second, is an award given by the Chapel in recognition of exceptional 
service on the part of an individual which contributes to the 
well-being of others at the national and world level, and the spirit of 
interfaith cooperation.
     The Commander-in-Chief and the National Chaplain will come 
forward.  I have several presentations to make to him. The plaque 
reads, ``The Legion of Honor Bronze Medallion is presented to Paul A. 
Spera, Commander-in-Chief of the VFW 1995-`96, by the Chapel of Four 
Chaplains, Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, in recognition of outstanding 
service to all people regardless of race or faith.  This award 
symbolizes for all Americans and for all time the unity of this nation 
founded upon the fatherhood of one God.''
     It is signed by the Chief Chaplain of the Chapel of Four 
Chaplains.  It is my distinct pleasure to present this to the 
Commander-in-Chief, and also with it goes the medallion, which I am 
pleased to put around his neck.  I don't know whether I should give him 
a French kiss or not.  (Laughter)  You can't do that with the glasses 
on.
     It is a distinct honor for us to be here with you today and God 
bless you and I hope you have a successful Convention.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Now, the Master's Men Chorale will sing 
``God Bless America.''
     (Whereupon, the Master's Men Chorale sang ``God Bless America.'')
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  We will now have the Benediction by 
Rabbi Shmuel Mann from the Keneseth Israel Synagogue.

                            BENEDICTION

     RABBI SHMUEL MANN:  The Memorial Service in the Jewish tradition 
opens with these verses from the holy scriptures.  ``Lord, are we human 
that you have regard for us, mere mortals that you take account of us.  
You have made us lower than the angels.  We are like the breath, our 
days are like the free shadow.
     ``Teach us to number our days that we maintain a heart of wisdom.  
We are strong and upright for the future of the man in peace.  The Lord 
redeems the life and the sermon, and those who trust in shall not feel 
forsaken.''
      Although these words apply to all human beings, a greater degree 
of poignancy in the sense of meaningfulness seems to attack these 
verses when we recite them as we memorialize our fallen soldiers with 
our servicemen and women who were the martyr in the cause of freedom.
     It is tragic and hopeful that human lives are like fleeting 
shadows to begin to be cut down in their prime defending against the 
savage and tyranny of those who would seek to launch assaults on the 
freedom and independence of peace loving people.
     We human beings, who were created and intended by God to be only a 
little less than the angels have proven time and again we are much less 
than divine and gravitate more to the reality of savagery.  It is the 
most bitter irony that the human beings, the most divine, 
intellectually and morally capable of animal kingdom should sink to the 
level in most respects exceedingly combative warlike species, using our 
intellect to perfect massive and ingenuous methods of human 
self-destruction.
     So today as we solemnly and reverently remember our fallen heroes 
and comrades, let us pray that almighty God will inspire all peoples to 
learn the lesson of past wars, that it is by remembering that each and 
every human being is created in the image of God and that God is every 
man's pedigree, God is either fair of all or of no man, the image of 
God is either in every person or in no man.
     Therefore, no one has the right to attack the freedom or 
independence of another.  Each and every person has the inalienable 
rights to liberty and peace.  Knowing to the human capacities for 
overzealousness, greed and egocentrisms, we must forever remember that 
in critical times men and women can save their lives only by risking 
them.
     Often our best and bravest must go to war, wage the fight on the 
battlefield to preserve the peace and peace-loving people.  Almighty 
God, teach us to learn peace and may no one learn war anymore.  The 
sword may conquer for a while, but the spirit conquers forever.
     It is only the spirit of humanness in our daily dealings with our 
neighbors and the spirit of brotherhood among peoples, the air of 
civility among religions and governments to set the stage for what we 
call the days of universal peace. Nations shall not lift up swords 
against nations, nor shall they learn war anymore.
     The evolution of humankind, though tragically marked by frequent, 
brutal, hardened reactions does move irresistibly in the direction of 
universal security and freedom.  Each and every one of us has the 
enormous responsibility and sacred duty to be involved in this 
inexorable process.
     With each mitzvah, each good deed, each observance of the 
commandment, noble attention and kind word, we all contribute toward 
this goal.  May the memory of our slain heroes remain forever etched 
in our consciences as we recall the unanswered cries for salvation of 
our martyred soldiers and victims of tyranny.
      We must pledge ourselves never to be silent in the face of 
tyranny or justice.  We must transform grief into compassion, we must 
give evidence of our memory paths through acts of kindness and courage.  
Thus, while our actions serve as monuments to the spirit of those who 
perished, the Lord, remember their martyred children as we pledge to 
remember them.
     I conclude with the two last stanzas of a poem entitled ``Weep Not 
For Them'', composed by a father of one of the four chaplains 
representing the three faiths, Catholic, Jewish and Protestant, which 
I only found out very recently, being a Canadian and learning of the 
story of the four chaplains who gave their lives so others might live.
     ``Weep not for them, nor for their cause, our sons who faltered 
not.
     ``Weep only for ourselves who failed, who vowed the vow for God.
     ``Weep for ourselves, but vow again pledge in our children's blood 
to keep the faith, to win the peace, to make the world a brotherhood.''
     Today, friends, as every day, we offer our thanksgiving to Thee, 
O Lord, for your steadfast love and guidance in our pursuit of justice, 
in furtherance of liberty and peace.  May the souls of our comrades 
be bound up in the bonds of eternal life and may you soon spread for 
all of us and the entire world your tabernacle of peace.  For this we 
pray and thank you.  Amen. 

                           RETIRING OF COLORS

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Sergeant-at-Arms, you will retire the 
colors.
     (Whereupon, the Retiring of the Colors was performed by the 
VFW National Honor Guard.)
     SERGEANT-AT-ARMS GEORGE SARVER:  Comrade Commander-in-Chief, 
the closing ceremonies have been performed.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Please join me in thanking for their 
beautiful performance this morning, The Master's Men Chorale.  I want 
to thank all of those who participated in this morning's Memorial 
Service, and I have a very special thank you to each and every one of 
you within this hall today to help us memorialize those of our comrades 
who have gone on before us. Thank you very much.
     (Whereupon, the meeting was recessed at 10:15 o'clock a.m.)



                          JOINT OPENING SESSION

                         MONDAY, AUGUST 19, 1996

     (The Joint Opening Session of the 97th National Convention of the 
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States and the 83rd National 
Convention of the Ladies Auxiliary was called to order on Monday, 
August 19, 1996, at 9:00 o'clock a.m., in the Commonwealth Convention 
Center, Louisville, Kentucky, by Comrade W. J. Cannon, Chairman of the 
VFW 97th National Convention Committee.)
     COMRADE W. J. CANNON:  Comrades and sisters, let me have your 
attention, please.  Comrades and sisters, I am W. J. Cannon, Chairman 
for this, the 97th VFW National Convention.  I welcome you on behalf 
of myself and all who are working so hard to make this our most 
successful Convention ever.
     We sincerely hope the time you spend with us this week will 
reinvigorate your pride in our nation, renew your commitment to 
America's veterans and bring new excitement to your work as a member 
of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and its Ladies Auxiliary.
     Please rise as we officially open this Convention with the 
Advancing of the Colors.
     National Sergeant-at-Arms, you will prepare the room to advance 
and post the colors.
     NATIONAL SERGEANT-AT-ARMS GEORGE SARVER:  Yes, sir.

                        ADVANCEMENT OF COLORS

     (Whereupon, the National Honor Guard advanced the colors at this 
time and the Pledge of Allegiance was given.)

                             INVOCATION

     COMRADE CANNON:  And now for this morning's Invocation, the 
National Chaplain of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, the Reverend Lyle N. Kell.
     (Whereupon, National Chaplain Kell gave the Invocation.)
     NATIONAL SERGEANT-AT-ARMS SARVER:  Comrade Chairman, the Opening 
Ceremonies have been performed.
     COMRADE CANNON:  We will dim the lights and ask that you all sit 
back and relax as we present a video of the ``Call to Duty'' year.
     (Whereupon, a video presentation entitled ``Call to Duty'' was 
presented at this time.)

              INTRODUCTION - THE HONORABLE JERRY E. ABRAMSON,
                       MAYOR, CITY OF LOUISVILLE

     COMRADE CANNON:  This is the first time that the VFW National 
Convention has been in Louisville, Kentucky, for a long, long time.  
It was 62 years ago in 1934, the 35th National Convention met here.
     Even in 1934, Louisville was a major southern metropolis, growing 
and prospering.  A center of commerce, industry, agriculture and 
education.  It continues to be that today, and much of the current 
progress of this city is due to the work of one individual.
     Elected to the office of Mayor in 1985, he continues to fill that 
position today as he serves his third four-year term.  The 
administration of Mayor Jerry E. Abramson has been dedicated to urban 
redevelopment, industrial progress, improved  housing, better 
education, protecting the environment, city- wide recycling, 
job-training and cultural programs to improve the quality of life here 
in this beautiful city beside the Ohio River.
     Today Louisville stands as a shining example of what a city could 
be and can be if it has the right kind of leadership.
     Ladies and gentlemen, please give a warm VFW welcome to His Honor 
the Mayor, Jerry E. Abramson, Mayor of our Host City, Louisville, 
Kentucky.

             GREETINGS - THE HONORABLE JERRY ABRAMSON

     MAYOR ABRAMSON:  Thank you very much, and good morning.  I know 
there are folks out there.  I just can't see you.  I do hear you.  Good 
morning.  All right.  I want to welcome you to Louisville.  Now, where 
are you?  Right, you are in Louisville.  You are not in ``Louieville,'' 
you are not in ``Louisville,'' you are in Louisville.  Have you got 
it?  We were named after King Louis, XVI, and we call ourselves 
Louisville.
     It is really great to have you here.  I bring you greetings on 
behalf of all the citizens.  I also have the good fortune of having a 
father who served proudly for four years during World War II, a mother 
that was a WAC in the United States Army, serving proudly for four 
years in World War II, and I had the good fortune of spending two years 
in the Army during the Vietnam era.
     I will tell you what was great about having a mother in the 
United States Army is that in the eighth grade, when I went to junior 
high, and that was when everyone was wearing army jackets as eighth 
graders, my army jacket fit because I wore my mother's.
     It is wonderful to have you with us.  We hope you have a great 
time.  We know you will.  I saw a few of you out at the Kentucky State 
Fair over the weekend, so some of you had gotten in early.  That will 
be going on throughout the rest of the week.
     For those fellows who were baseball enthusiasts, you are here 
about two weeks late.  Right down the road, two blocks from here, is 
the Louisville Slugger Museum.  The largest baseball bat in the world 
is resting up against the six-story building.  You can't miss it on 
Main Street.
     If you had been here a couple of weeks ago, you would have had the 
opportunity to see Ted Williams, Stan Musial,Harmon Killebrew, Ralph 
Kiner, and our own Louisvillian, Pee Wee Reese.  It was a great 
opportunity for us to dedicate the Louisville Slugger Museum.
     If you have a chance in between all of these wonderful speeches 
you are going to hear throughout the next couple of days, if you have 
a chance to mosey down Main Street, we hope you will take the time to 
see the Louisville Slugger Museum.
     We welcome you to our city.  If you have a chance to go out two 
miles to the Churchill Downs Museum.  Although they are not running 
horse races this time of the year, you will really get a feel of what 
it is like to be here on the first Saturday in May.
     It is again an honor for us to have you here.  It has taken a long 
time for you to come back, 1934.  Since 1934, we have had World War II, 
we have had the Korean conflict, we have had the Vietnam conflict, we 
have had the Gulf War, and we have ended the Cold War, and that has 
happened since you have been here last.
     It is wonderful to have you back in our community. We have 
dedicated today to you, dedicated it as your day, Veterans of Foreign 
Wars 97th Convention Week in Louisville.  We have proclaimed it your 
day to let all the people know and take notice that you are here, what 
you and others have done for the greatness of this nation, to welcome 
you, to host you. We thank you for selecting our city and remember it 
is ``Louisville''.  Have a wonderful time.


         INTRODUCTION - THE HONORABLE STEPHEN L. HENRY,
               LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR OF KENTUCKY

     COMRADE CANNON:  For all of you non-believers, I have been telling 
you it was ``Louisville''.  We have a lot of folks standing on the 
right side over here, and I wish somebody would direct them over to my 
left because there are plenty of seats. There are plenty of seats.  
There is no reason why anybody in the auditorium should be standing.
     The next introduction is a pleasure for me, too, because I share 
something in common with this gentleman, because it happens to be one 
of my hometown boys.  Anyway, we will get around to that.
      The name Kentucky is Indian for ``land of tomorrow.'' There are 
some who will argue with that and say that it was Indian for ``happy 
hunting grounds.''  I guess it depends on which Indian you are.  
Anyway, our next guest has contributed to that name.
     He was born in Kentucky, raised in Kentucky and educated in 
Kentucky.  He carries on the proud tradition of those who came West 
over 200 years ago and brought forth from the wilderness a great state.
     His parents bestowed on him a simple yet very powerful philosophy: 
``The harder you work, the further you go in life.''  In everything he 
has done, he has fulfilled that commitment.  Early influences started 
him on politics on the one hand and medicine on the other.
     In both cases, not only did he find personal satisfaction but the 
State of Kentucky has benefitted as well.
     As an intern on the staff of the late and great United States 
Representative William Natcher, he observed American government at one 
of its most trying moments, the 1974 Watergate Hearings.  What he 
learned there has remained with him to this day.
     Not long after his stint in Washington, he became an intern of 
another kind, a medical intern, as he trained in the field of 
orthopedic medicine and soon became a world renowned expert in that 
field.
     Today he is practicing his second interest, that of political 
leadership and, as with medicine, he is one of the leaders in his 
field.  Educator, community activist, small business owner, and public 
servant, he brings to the position of Lieutenant Governor a unique 
insight.
     Now, would you please join me in giving a very warm VFW welcome to 
Dr. Stephen L. Henry, the Lieutenant Governor of the great Commonwealth 
of Kentucky.                    

           GREETINGS - THE HONORABLE STEPHEN L. HENRY,
               LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR OF KENTUCKY

     LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR HENRY:  Good morning.  I honestly and 
sincerely want to say I cannot think of a better group to welcome to 
Kentucky than our veterans.  Thank you for being here this morning.  I 
noticed as coming in, and I have to tell you this little story.  
Somebody said we get the politicians to come.
     Let me tell you this story from Eastern Kentucky. There is a old 
story back in the hills that says any time a baby is born, the angel 
will come down from the heavens and kiss the baby.  Sometimes the baby 
will reach up for the angel and the angel will kiss the hand.  That 
baby will become a great writer.   
     Occasionally, the angel will come down and kiss the baby on the 
lips, and that baby will become a great speaker. Occasionally, the baby 
is sleeping on its stomach and its back end is a little bit up in the 
air, and the angel will accidentally kiss the bottom, and that ones 
becomes a politician.  The reason I tell you this, the Mayor and I are 
public servants, not politicians.  We want to point that out to you.
     I hope you have a chance to see Kentucky.  We feel avid about our 
state as you do about the American Flag.  Kentucky is a great 
commonwealth.  I hope you have a chance this week to see the State Fair 
and go see Kentucky and all of its regions brought to Louisville for 
this great event for us, and at the same time get out and around the 
surrounding areas, the Kentucky horse farm in many Kentucky parks.  
This is the best horse park in the country. 
     Let me say that it is a pleasure for me to be here. My history as 
a physician I think has gone back to the military.  I have never had 
the privilege of serving in the military, but early in my days in the 
medical school we were doing research on war-type injuries and the Navy 
called us one day, and right after the Panama invasion where the Navy 
Seals got caught in the ambush, in hot stone, and asked us to take our 
research, and since that time I have been heavily involved with the 
Department of Navy.
     Even as Lieutenant Governor we continue, and I am still a 
consultant.  Every day just about, on the weekend especially, I have 
the opportunity to continue to volunteer at  the Veterans 
Administration Hospital as an attending physician,  and I have to say 
this with real honesty, I have had the real privilege, I think, of 
making the difference in many Vietnam veterans, Korean and even World 
War II lives by some of the techniques that have been developed here 
at the University of Louisville with my colleagues in improving the 
quality of life for those who had necrotic infections.  It has been an 
honor for me to be involved.
     Let me say it has been an honor as well to have participated in 
Normandy Invasion ceremonies two years ago.  It was very impressive.  
If you have never been to Normandy, it is a very impressive situation 
to walk on Omaha Beach and Utah Beach.
     It is something that you should do if you ever have the 
opportunity.  Let me say to you that Governor Patton wanted to be here 
this morning.  I talked him out of it so I could be here.  Let me say 
that we here in the State of Kentucky bring veterans affairs directly 
into the Governor's Office for a chance to make sure the veterans of 
this state have an opportunity to get their voices heard with regard to 
nursing homes, veterans affairs, and in regard to those issues.
     Agent Orange in our state, I know it is a federal issue, but our 
state is trying to deal with those issues on a  state basis.  Again, 
let me say I wanted to come here and thank you for one thing, thank you 
for the freedom that my generation has today and thank you for the 
freedom that we have to live out our dreams.  Have a good time in 
Kentucky.  Thank you and God bless you.

               PRESENTATION OF AMERICAN FLAG SETS

     COMRADE CANNON:  It is my pleasure to introduce Gwendolyne Brown, 
the Ladies Auxiliary National Patriotic Instructor, for the purpose of 
a presentation.
     NATIONAL PATRIOTIC INSTRUCTOR GWENDOLYNE BROWN:  Thank you.  Good morning.  National Commander-in-Chief Paul Spera, National President 
Helen Lenehan, Guests, Comrades and Sisters of the Veterans of Foreign 
Wars of the United States and the Ladies Auxiliary:
     It is an honor and pleasure at this 97th National Convention of 
the Veterans of Foreign Wars to present a flag to the Honorable Stephen 
Henry, Lieutenant Governor of the Bluegrass State of Kentucky, and to 
the Honorable Jerry E. Abramson, Mayor of Louisville, Kentucky.
     The blue, white and red colors of the flag are often interpreted 
as expressing the very character of our nation. The red stripes tend to 
represent the courage, heroism and sacrifices of the more than 44 
million men and women who have fought for our country and its freedom 
since the Revolutionary War.
     The Continental Congress in 1777 declared that the white stars in 
a field of blue shall represent the new constellation.  George 
Washington described the white flag as symbolizing our desire for 
liberty.  It is said that the white stripes speak for the purity of 
our high ideals.  The blue has been likened to the strength and the 
unity of our states.
     The Lieutenant Governor is a native of Kentucky.  Dr. Henry is an 
attending physician, and get this, at the Veterans Hospital.  He is a 
practicing orthopedic surgeon.  Dr. Henry is currently a consultant 
for the Department of Navy.  He is also writing a chapter for the Armed 
Services Medical War Manual.
     Dr. Henry was recognized by General Norman Schwarzkopf as a 
civilian with the Persian Gulf.  Dr. Henry, please come forward.  On 
behalf of the Ladies Auxiliary and the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the 
National President, I would like to present to you this American Flag.  
We hope you will display this flag proudly and we hope you will 
continue to help our veterans in the VA Hospital. 
     Now, for our Mayor.  Mayor Abramson also is a native of 
Louisville, Kentucky, and has served as Mayor since 1986.  He is 
married to Madelyn M. Abramson, and they have one son, Sydney.  During 
his watch, Louisville has been ranked in the top ten places to live.
     Out of 343 metropolitan areas, it has been named number one of 
five super, solid metro areas.  One of the 15 fastest growing urban 
economies, named one of the best big city job markets for college 
graduates, ranked in the nation's top 24 in real estate markets, and 
designated as an all-American city.
     It received the Innovation in Government Award for the Mayor's 
City Work Program which trains front-line city employees in 
participatory and team problem-solving.  Mayor Abramson has been 
working with the homeless, and this year he received the Public Sector 
Award from the National Alliance to End Homelessness.
     Mayor Abramson, we are proud of your accomplishments and we are 
delighted to convene our Convention in your city. On behalf of the 
Ladies Auxiliary to the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the National 
President, I would like to present you with this American Flag.
     We hope you will fly this proudly and be reminded of the many men 
that gave their lives so we may enjoy our freedom of today.  May you 
also be reminded of the veterans and their families in your city and 
their need of help and support of your program such as with the 
homeless.
     MAYOR ABRAMSON:  Thank you.

              INTRODUCTION OF COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA

     COMRADE CANNON:  As we open our 97th VFW National Convention, it 
is my very pleasant task to present our Commander-in-Chief with his 
official Convention badge and the gavel for this year's Convention.
     We anticipate this will be one of the most successful Conventions 
in recent VFW history.  This anticipation comes as the result of the 
successes which have been part and parcel of this gentleman during his 
30 years of service to the America's veterans and the VFW.
     That 30 years was highlighted this year as he and the rest of the 
``Call to Duty'' team led the VFW to new heights of commitment and 
dedication.
     As I present his official Convention badge and the gavel for this 
97th VFW National Convention, please rise and welcome a man who will 
always exemplify what it means to answer the ``Call to Duty,'' the 
Commander-in-Chief of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, Paul A. Spera.


               REMARKS - COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you very much.  I have a script 
in front of me, and the script says that this is where I make remarks, 
and they have even written some of them for me.  What are the chances 
that I am going to read them?  Actually, there are some things in here 
that need to be said.
     First, let me welcome each and every one of you to the 97th 
National Convention of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. I expect this to 
be a very successful Convention, and I expect it to be successful 
because you are here, the delegates to this Convention.
     I have over the last 12 months traveled around the world.  I have 
had the opportunity to stand shoulder to shoulder with those brave 
American troops in the DMZ in Korea, who live every day, every moment 
in the shadow of death, never knowing when they will be called upon to 
defend freedom.
     I had a special opportunity to join at that time with the 
Department of Defense group that went to Bosnia to visit with the young 
men and women who today stand shoulder to shoulder with America's 
allies.  On your behalf, I brought them a message, a message of 
support, a message of caring, and a message of love from the more than 
two million American veterans who belong to our organization and who 
went before them and know what their lives are like.
     If I have a high point of my year as Commander-in-Chief, it was 
standing at a place called Camp Bedrock in Tuzla in Bosnia.  Camp 
Bedrock is a full field hospital plus an engineer battalion.  It has 
that name for a very special reason.  The humor of our people in the 
military service never changes.
     Camp Bedrock is located overlooking a rock quarry. For those of 
you who are Flintstone fans, you know where they got the name Bedrock.  
Standing there and handing to 1,000 of those troops in Bosnia a 
pre-paid $20 phone card, putting it in the hands of those individuals 
and saying to them the VFW wants you to use this to call someone at 
home to let them know that you are all right.
     We have gotten letters and I got comments from them. I will just 
share with you one comment.  I was sitting in the mess hall and I was 
sitting across from this young man, and I gave him the phone card and I 
gave him that message.  He looked at me and said, ``Sir, Sunday is my 
anniversary.  I am going to call my wife and tell her that the VFW and 
I wish her a happy anniversary.''
     So as we face the business of this Convention, let me thank the 
National President and all of her officers and all of the Ladies 
Auxiliary, the National Commander of the Military Order of the Cootie, 
his membership and their Auxiliary, all of my National Officers, and 
all of you, my comrades and friends, for a great year.
     I will leave you with one message.  We will discuss many important 
subjects.  You will hear a lot from many people about changes in the 
future of our organization.  You will hear from many different people 
their view of what the VFW should be like in the future.
     Your ``Call to Duty'' this week is to listen, to decide and to 
tell us what your view of the VFW is for the future, because it is your 
view that counts.
     At this time I would like to turn the microphone over to our 
Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief, John Moon, for the purpose of 
introducing the National Program Award winners and the 1995-1996 All 
American Team.

               PRESENTATION OF AWARDS TO 1995-'96
     ALL AMERICAN COMMANDERS AND NATIONAL PROGRAM  WINNERS

     JUNIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF MOON:  It is now time for us to 
recognize the All American Commanders for  1995-'96. Much of our 
success during this past year is due to their hard work and leadership.  
We will also take this opportunity to honor those individuals who 
excelled in other programs sponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars 
and its Ladies Auxiliary.  These presentations are being made here at 
our Joint Opening Session to allow all of you the opportunity to give 
them the recognition they deserve.
     I would like to ask the National President of our great Ladies 
Auxiliary, Helen Lenehan, to join Commander-in-Chief Spera at center 
stage so they can jointly present awards to the national award program 
winners.
     I would also like to ask Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief Jim Nier 
to assist in the presentation of awards to our All American Commanders.
     Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome into the hall, the 1995-'96 
program winners and the 1995-'96 team of All  American Commanders.
     The first award to be presented is for the National Americanism 
Record Book Program.  The first place winner among Posts is Post 9693, 
Bay Village, Ohio.
     The next awards to be presented are the winners in the National 
Community Activities Record Book Contest.
     First place in Division 1 is Post 4633 and its Ladies Auxiliary, 
Hampden, Maine.
     First place in Division 2 is Post 3343 and its Ladies Auxiliary, 
Clyde, Ohio.
     First place in Division 3 is Post 9808 and its Ladies Auxiliary, 
Mechanicsville, Virginia.
     First place in Division 4 is Post 5225 and its Ladies Auxiliary, 
West Memphis, Arkansas.
     Let's give these winners, as well as the rest of the Posts and 
Auxiliary that entered record books in the 1996 National Community 
Activities Record Book Contest, a big hand.
     (Applause)
     The next awards we are going to present are to the National 
Loyalty Day winners.
     First place winner is Post 4452 and its Ladies Auxiliary, Cannon 
Falls, Minnesota.
     The first place winner among districts goes to District 3 and its 
Ladies Auxiliary, Department of Virginia.
     The first place winner in County Council competition goes to 
Lancaster County Council and its Ladies Auxiliary, Department of 
Pennsylvania.
     The Department of Texas and its Ladies Auxiliary were judged first 
place winners in state competition.
     The next awards to be presented are for National Youth Activities 
Program.  The first place winner among Posts and Auxiliaries goes to 
Post 2135, Peoria, Arizona, and its Ladies Auxiliary.
     District 14, Department of Maryland and its Ladies  Auxiliary, is 
the first place Youth Activities winner among districts.
     The winner in State Competition for Outstanding Youth Programs is 
the Department of Minnesota and its Ladies Auxiliary.
     Before we conclude the programs awards, I would like to provide 
you with information about our Community Service Programs for 1995-'96.

Nationally, the number of completed projects was over 984,000; the 
number of volunteer hours donated was over 13.6 million, and the total 
amount of monies spent or donated exceeded $53.9 million, all totals 
exceeded last year's records.  This is truly a record of achievement 
that the VFW and its Ladies Auxiliary can be extremely proud.
     This concludes the Program Awards.  Please give all our volunteers 
a big hand for the work they do to make our organization successful.  
Truly they lived up to this year's slogan ``Call to Duty.''
     I am sure that many of the Commanders I am about to introduce set 
their sights on becoming an All American Commander when they assumed 
office a year ago.  Through perseverance and effort, they achieved 
their goal.  Today, they are here to receive their just award, the 
coveted red, white and blue cap that clearly distinguishes them as an 
All American Commander.
     Now, 171 Commanders will now be called by Order of Parade in this 
order, Post, District, Department and County Council, based on the June 
30th national membership standings.
     The first awards are going to the Commanders of the number one 
Department in the nation.
                     From the Department of Pacific Areas:
                     Roy Banning - Post 10216
                     Edward Donalds - Post 9985
                     Earl Hanson - Post 9555
                     John Welsh - Post 8180
                     Kenneth Schaefer - Post 2485
                     Frank Sass - District 3
                     Paul Morgenthal - District 7
                     Joseph Carsley - Department Commander
                     The Department of Idaho is represented by:
                     Walter Jackson - Post 9446
                     Farrell Calinsky - Post 10444
                     Thomas Monson - Post 63
                     Charlie Griggs - District 5, and the District 
                       Captain of the 1995-'96 Team of All Americans.
                     Theodore Kelley - Department Commander from Idaho.
                     From the Department of Central America:
                     David Waites - Post 6565
                     Ruth Thomas - Department Commander of Central  
                       America.
                     Representing the Department of Europe:
                     Eric Rasmussen - Post 11281
                     Richard Reed - Post 10810
                     Larry Grubbs - Post 11058
                     Dean White - Post 27
                     Billy Barber - Post 10436
                     Richard Maryland - District 5
                     Lester LaGrow - District 1
                     Patrick Buckman - Department Commander of Europe.
                     The Department of Hawaii is represented by:
                     Francis Roddin - Department Commander
                     Representing the Department of Delaware:
                     Harry Troutman - Post 6984
                     George Ritchie - Post 7234
                     William Wailes - Post 475
                     Edwin Moran - District 4
                     Leroy Rench - Department Commander of Delaware.
                     From the Department of South Carolina:
                     Dudley Crenshaw - Post 5730
                     Ernest Russell - Post 8738
                     William McGregor - Post 5996
                     Richard Bell - Post 4262
                     Jack Hills - Post 10420
                     Bill Lark, Department Commander and the Department 
                       Captain of the 1995-'96 Team of All Americans.
                     From the Department of Georgia:
                     Ben Clay - Post 1100
                     Jack Parker - Post 5408
                     Hubert Swecker - Post 665, deceased
                     William Curran - Post 649
                     Alan Hall - District 5
                     James Wood - Department Commander of Georgia.
                     From the Department of Mississippi:
                     Wade Harris - Post 9108
                     Travis Harlow - Post 5395
                     Cecil Harwell - Post 4057
                     Claude Legendre - Post 3373
                     James Bailey - Post 4490
                     Noel Giuffrida - Post 6473
                     Leonard Slade - District 3
                     Bobby Alexander - District 12
                     Bobby Miller - Department Commander of 
                       Mississippi.
                     Representing the Department of Virginia:
                     Tommy Hines - Post 7166
                     Robert Hemphill - Post 7327
                     Orville Teter - Post 3103
                     Victor Weaver - Post 9808
                     William Dean - Post 392
                     John Dodge - Post 1503
                     John Peters - Department Commander of Virginia.
                     From the Department of Rhode Island:
                     Kevin Gilchrist - Post 183
                     From the Department of Arizona:
                     Vincent Rigo - Post 2135
                     Frank Page - Post 9399
                     R. Bennett Smith - Post 549
                     Kenneth Thomas - District 9
                     James Montgomery - Department Commander
                     Representing the Department of Colorado:
                     James Seis - Post 4061
                     Warren Wellensiek - District 10
                     Harland Smith - Department Commander
                     From the Department of Alaska:
                     Danny Worden - Post 5562
                     The Department of Florida has 16 proud All 
                       Americans.  They are:
                     Robert Westbrook - Post 9212
                     Fred Fischer - Post 7122
                     Kenneth Harshey - Post 9853
                     Russell Haller - Post 8002
                     Michael White - Post 10068
                     George Hewell - Post 8681
                     Jean Rader - Post 4781
                     William Chalone - Post 3233
                     Eugene Flick - Post 1590
                     Robert Murray - Post 7721
                     August Scumaci - Post 10209
                     Louise Peters - Post 10167
                     Oliver Beale - Post 8696
                     Ralph Benedict - Post 10097
                     John Clark - District 6
                     Robert Wood - Department Commander from the great 
                       State of Florida.
                     The Department of Missouri is represented by:
                     Charles Clifton - Post 1738
                     Donald Sutton - Post 11041
                     Donald Hentges - Post 35
                     Jimmy Cook - Post 57
                     James DeClue - Post 3777
                     Antonio Borjas - Post 2866
                     Edward Mueller - Post 3838
                     Jerry Turk - District 8
                     The Department of Maine is represented by:
                     Alan Winter - Post 9150
                     From the Department of New Mexico:
                     Dennis Pate - Post 3280
                     From the Department of South Dakota:
                     James Marrs - Post 1273
                     Representing the Department of Washington:
                     Allen Mattausch - Post 11326
                     Gary Hulsey - Post 1949
                     Robert Nelson - Post 2995
                     David Cook - Post 7824
                     Joesph Willaford - District 11
                     From the Department of North Carolina:
                     Calvin Anderson - Post 9850
                     Perry Graves - Post 8844
                     John Bullis - Post 2615
                     Donald Rhodes - Post 5206
                     Gene Kent - Post 891
                     Representing the Department of Ohio:
                     Robert Snyder - Post 1623
                     Larry Bender - Post 788.
                     I am proud to recognize the Department of Ohio, 
                       my own Department:
                     Francis Aleksandrowicz - Post 9693
                     Robert Cain - Post 3863
                     William Cansler - Post 3283
                     James Hardin - Post 8437
                     Henry Drexler - Post 3288
                     David Boda - Post 2947
                     Donald Paxton - District 3
                     Steven Mardis - District 6
                     Larry Peters - Montgomery County Council.
                     Representing the Department of Oregon:
                     Robert Zuck - Post 2468
                     Eugene Richards - Post 3965
                     Representing the Department of Minnesota:
                     Clint Bucher - Post 5919
                     Donald Sater - Post 8510
                     From the Department of Pennsylvania:
                     William  Fissel - Post 2506
                     From the Department of New Jersey:
                     Joseph Bennett, a double winner, Post 262 and 
                       District 8
                     Joseph Fortunato - Post 453
                     Edward Damiano - Post 6805
                     Donnie Wine - Post 6590
                     From the Department of Illinois:
                     Tiger Miller - Post 1059
                     John Murray - Post 1596
                     Representing the Department of North Dakota:
                     William Eslinger - Post 1326
                     Representing the Department of California:
                     Joseph McCormick - Post 1717
                     Melvin Birden - Post 8679
                     Regis Weaver - Post 1934
                     Giovanni Martinelli - Post 1746
                     Kenneth Robbins - Post 85
                     Roger Hagen - Post 4647
                     Ordean Larson - District 4
                     From the Department of Indiana:
                     Donald Harris - Post 972
                     Mark Acker - Post 1114
                     Representing the Department of New York:
                     Jeffrey Addison - Post 1418
                     From the Department of Alabama:
                     Jerry Cole - Post 5846
                     James Green - Post 4388
                     Harold Dean - Post 4572
                     Aubrey McClure - Post 6073
                     Jimmy Manley - Post 4765
                     Clyde Maddox - Post 5658
                     Nick Campanotta - Pot 668
                     Travis Whaley - Post 924
                     Gregory Usrey - Post  2702
                     Clyde Henley - District 8
                     From the Department of Nebraska:
                     James Klug - Post 2503
                     Representing the Department of Massachusetts:
                     Walter Portrait - Post 6712
                     From the Department of Kentucky:
                     Jerry Powell - Post 1170
                     From the Department of Texas with 14 All 
                       Americans:
                     James Shane - Post 2451
                     Lupe Olvera, III - Post 2035
                     Richard Crissman - Post 812
                     Wilton Waldrop - Post 6378
                     Robert Trejo - Post 8552
                     Donald Johnston - Post 2059
                     Danny Henry - Post 4372 and District 25
                     Harry Schuhmann - Post 8790
                     Daniel Medrano - Post 9186
                     Benjamin Chappell - Post 9191
                     Miguel Mares - Post 8919
                     Carl Smith - District 10
                     Buddi Harlan - District 16
                     From the Department of Oklahoma:
                     William Rodriguez - Post 1857 and Post Captain of 
                       the 1995-'96 Team of All Americans
                     Representing the Department of Maryland:
                     Douglas Peters - Post 8065
                     Representing the Department of Arkansas:
                     Samuel Eden - Post 8525
                     Gary Marshall - Post 4554
                     Aurbury Secrest - Post 9095
                     Harrison Casto - Post 5225.  Accepting 
                       posthumously for Commander Casto is Mrs. Casto.

     Here they are, this year's team of All American Commanders.  Will 
you please stand and be recognized as an All American group.  Let's  
give them a big round of applause. 
     (Applause)
     The last Departments we want to recognize are first place winners 
in the various membership divisions and the first three Departments in 
the order of parade.  Divisions:
                     Division One - Department of Ohio
                     Division Two - Department of Florida
                     Division Three - Department of Missouri
                     Division Four - Department of Virginia
                     Division Five - Department of Iowa
                     Division Six - Department of Georgia
                     Division Seven - Department of South Carolina
                     Division Eight - Department of Maine
                     Division Nine - Department of Idaho
                     Division Ten - Department of Pacific Areas
                     Division Eleven - Department of Europe
                     Order of Parade:
                     First Place - Department of Pacific Areas
                     Second Place - Department of Idaho
                     Third Place - Department of Central America
     Comrades and sisters, this concludes the presentation  of awards.  
I want to thank each one of you for attending and honoring the 
recipients of this year's awards.

                INTRODUCTION OF THE HONORABLE JESSE BROWN,
                      SECRETARY OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Ladies and gentlemen, it is a special 
pleasure to introduce to you our next speaker. 
     Sworn in on January 22nd, 1993, by President Clinton  as Secretary 
of Veterans Affairs, Jesse Brown immediately brought new spirit and 
direction to the second largest cabinet department.
     Mr. Brown, a combat decorated Vietnam veteran, was formerly 
Executive Director of the Disabled American Veterans.  Throughout his 
career he has worked with and for veterans.  His life has been one 
truly dedicated to veterans' issues and concerns.
     He began his employment with DAV in 1967 in Chicago, moving to the 
DAV headquarters in Washington, D.C., in 1973. 
     There, he assumed a variety of positions with increasing 
responsibility, including Supervisor of the National Appeals Office and 
Deputy National Service Director.
     He was appointed DAV Executive Director in 1988 and was 
responsible for overseeing DAV's National Service, Legislation, 
Employment, Volunteer Services and Communications Programs.
     Jesse Brown has served as Chairman of the Vietnam Civic Committee, 
and was a member of the White House Conference on Handicapped 
Individuals and the Chicago Mayor's Committee on Employment of the 
Handicapped.
     Last year at our National Convention in Phoenix, Jesse Brown 
received the VFW prestigious Americanism Award for his outstanding 
contributions.
     Ladies and gentlemen, comrades, sisters and friends, please 
welcome a fellow VFW member and a true advocate for veterans, the 
Secretary of Veterans Affairs, The Honorable Jesse Brown.
     (Whereupon, the assembly extended a prolonged standing ovation.)

                 ADDRESS BY SECRETARY JESSE BROWN

     SECRETARY BROWN:  Thank you very much, Commander, for that very 
kind and warm introduction.  I am delighted to be here.  My good 
friend, Adjutant General Rivers, in Washington, D.C., they used to 
call him that Louisiana lawyer.
     Distinguished Guests, my Fellow Veterans, Ladies and Gentlemen:
     I would like to trespass upon your time for a few seconds to ask 
you to say a proud silent prayer for the servicemen and the Secret 
Service technician who died in the plane crash in Wyoming.  May God 
bless their souls.
     I am really delighted to be here to see so many of my friends, 
and I am also extremely happy to see that Congressman Sonny Montgomery 
is here today.  No one in our lifetime has done more for veterans and 
their families than the Chairman. As he retires, I hope the whole 
country will know what VFW members have known for a long time, that 
Sonny Montgomery is an  American hero and to us he will always be known 
as ``Mr.  Veteran''.  He may leave Congress, but he will never, never 
leave our hearts.
     As you know, some of those politicians in Washington, D.C., did 
not want me to leave there.  They are mad at me  because I have been 
running around the country speaking out on the unfair cuts to veterans 
programs, and they didn't want me at this Convention either.  So they 
cut my travel by 75  percent.
     They were going to do it again in 1997, but I want you to know 
that thanks to the efforts of the VFW members my travel monies were 
restored in the 1997 budget.  Thank you so very, very much for that.  I 
will pledge to you that I will not be shackled in Washington, D.C.
     I will continue to speak out for veterans and their families.  I 
am so happy to be out of Washington, D.C.  It is like a soap opera 
there.  Those new politicians came to Washington and took my travel 
money, and they thought they were the Bold and the Beautiful, and they 
are trying to turn this country into Another World.
     But in the eyes of America, they look more like the Young and the 
Restless.  Because we know that if they have their way all of my 
children could be thrown out of the General Hospital.  We just spend 
our lives in the field in our Days of Our Lives and I am here to tell 
you that this country sees the Guiding Light, and if they do not change 
their ways by November they will have One Life to Live.
     You have got to promise me not to tell them that I said that.  
They will take the other 25 percent.  That is really funny.  
Unfortunately, it is true.  They have turned the civilities of 
politicians to an atmosphere of hostility.  That is why we in the 
veterans community must remain focused on the men and women who have 
borne the battle.
     The Olympic Games are over and we are still celebrating.  Our 
young people did well.  They worked hard to earn medals of gold, silver 
and bronze.  That hard work was driven by their desire to do their very 
best.  That is what brings out the best in all of us is the desire to 
do our very best.
     When the record books are closed, all athletes want to know that 
they did their best.  These past three and one- half years seem like a 
marathon to me.  I have run the best race I have known how and that has 
not been easy.  I  have put my heart and soul into what I believe is 
right for veterans and  their families.
      When I became your Secretary for Veterans Affairs, I had a vision 
for change.  The first step was to create an atmosphere where putting 
veterans first was our number one priority.  Putting veterans first 
became more than a slogan, it became our mission.
     The system is not perfect; no system is.  The race is not over.  
We are still running hard.  But veterans know that the VA is more 
responsive to their needs than four years ago, and there is no secret 
that the veterans organizations, great organizations like the VFW, felt 
that they were outsiders.
     When I accepted this job, that was one of the first things I 
changed.  Today the veterans and the VA are partners.   We  make 
decisions together.  During this administration, veterans have had 
great access to the VA and the White House, and it is making a 
difference.
     In 1993, we inherited huge backlogs of claims, and they were 
getting worse.  We turned that around with the help of the VFW.  The 
time is now getting better.  The veteran we are serving is getting 
older and their needs are changing, and we are changing the way they 
deliver health care.
      We are creating more places for veterans to receive medical 
attention.  We have reorganized our hospitals, clinics and nursing 
homes into 22 integrated networks and we are shifting our focus from 
inpatient to outpatient care.  We have taken advantage of the economy 
scales in many areas of the pharmaceutical and medical supplies, and we 
sent Congress a plan for national eligibility reform.
     We need to get away from those old laws that prevent the VA from 
providing full, comprehensive health care to our veterans.  For the 
first time, the President has just proposed legislation that will allow 
veterans to use their Medicare entitlement to receive care at VA 
Hospitals.
     There will be a pilot project at eight locations and it will be a 
great start, and we are excited by their initiative, and I hope 
Congress will pass it.  Our progress has not come easy.  The past two 
years have been very difficult.  We have survived the challenge and the 
compensation to veterans and two government shutdowns, which delayed 
compensations and pension papers.
     We have some very dedicated employees that are here with us today.  
These are the people from our hospitals in this area and also from the 
Regional Office who in many cases worked without pay during the 
shutdowns.  I am going to ask you to allow them to stand and let us 
give them a round of applause. (Applause)
     We have made advances in such areas as improving health care, 
Agent Orange or Post-traumatic Stress Disorders, Persian Gulf 
illnesses, improving services for our women veterans, POWs, helping 
homeless veterans and burying our veterans with dignity.  These are 
examples of what we can do if we work together.
     Yet, I do not believe that we can let our guard down. Threat to 
veterans' benefits will not go away.  That is why we must keep our 
priorities focused.  This great organization speaks out strongly on 
matters of national defense, and that is so appropriate.
     We always want a strong defense and we need adequate resources to 
preserve the peace, but we must never forget our responsibilities for 
our veterans when they return home suffering from all kinds of diseases 
and traumatic injuries. There are some who would like to forget.
     There are those that want veterans to share in the pain of 
shrinking the cost of government.  We must say to them loud and clear, 
``Don't talk to veterans about sharing pain.  We know pain very well.''  
In World War II, 111,000 were killed and there were over 700,000 that 
were wounded.  During Korea, 54,000 dead, 100,000 wounded, and in 
Vietnam 58,000 were killed and over 300,000 of us returned home 
wounded.  Those brave warriors who died in Saudi Arabia, victims of a 
cowardly act.
     Now, that is pain, pain mingled with the wounded cries and the 
silence of the dead.  That, my friend, is why we will never, ever give 
up the fight, because we in the veterans community honor our dead by 
responding to the needs of the living.
     We know from our own experience that for the living, the cost of 
war continues.  For instance, during the Vietnam war lots of veterans 
were exposed to Agent Orange.  We already have determined that several 
of these diseases are associated with Agent Orange.
     We now are writing regulations that will add two more.  They are 
prostate cancer and peripheral neuropathy.  We urge Vietnam veterans 
suffering from these diseases to contact the VA or their VFW National 
Service Officer.  The VA, for the first time since its history, has 
proposed legislation to provide a remedy for children of Vietnam 
veterans who suffer from spina bifida.
     That is what the VA is about.  It should be about change, change 
in response to the needs of our veterans and their families.  We cannot 
support and should not support the unreasonable changes that have been 
considered in Washington, D.C., changes like taxes, compensation and 
pension, termination compensation for veterans rated 10 and 20-percent 
disabled, means testing service-connected disability compensation and 
redefining service-connections.
     Some of these politicians have come before you and told you that 
we did not ask for those things, but my reply to them is they should 
not have been looking it up in the first place.
     What stopped those attacks on our benefits from becoming law?  
This organization, the VFW, the veterans and their families and our 
friends in Congress, friends like the great Sonny Montgomery.  What 
about our future?  The President has promised to make sure that the 
nation honors its commitments to veterans.
     He promised to negotiate the budget for veterans every year and he 
has done that.  This year President Clinton recommended a billion 
dollar increase in his spending for the VA, but Congress cut it by $915 
million.  We needed that money for our hospitals.
     Now, the President has put in his budget for 1997, and it includes 
$1.3 billion increase over what Congress approved for 1996.  This is a 
good budget, and I hope Congress is kind to us this year.  That may not 
be the case.  Under our latest proposal, we have already cut the VA 
medical construction budget by $71 billion
     This would mean that we could not build the hospitals we need in 
California and Florida.  These are the only two hospitals that I really 
want to build, and I would really like to have those primarily because 
if we don't have them, access, reasonable access to over 700,000 
veterans will continue to exist, and that is not right.
     Of course, it would prevent us from moving forward with our plan 
to upgrade VA Hospitals that are 42 to 100 years old, and on the 
benefit side they have taken away $26 million, and this will greatly 
reduce our ability to improve the quality and timeliness of service to 
veterans and their families.
     As you can see, the race is clearly not over.  We need to get back 
to the three R's, and I am not talking about reading, writing and 
arithmetic, I am talking about recognizing, respecting and remembering 
the needs of America's veterans.
     Military service should not be rewarded with a bitter taste, a 
bitter taste served in a cup of champions, and our veterans are 
champions for democracy and champions for freedom.
     That is why your work is so important and it must continue.  You 
must continue to carry the torch for all generations to come. 
     You must push on to the next rung.  We cannot fail our veterans 
now because we have a special bond with them.That is a bond forged in 
our company's experience by pain and move forward by courage and 
determination.
     I would like to leave you with a true story that in my view 
eloquently describes this courage and determination.  A few years ago, 
a 17-year-old, Michael Stone, was competing as a pole vaulter in a 
National Junior Olympics.  The competition was fierce.  In the finals 
another pole vaulter had cleared the vault one foot higher than Michael 
had ever done.
     Michael tried anyway and he cleared the bar.  It was raised two 
more inches and excitement built as both athletes cleared the bar 
again.  Then they moved the bar up two more inches, one inch below the 
national record, and the crowd went wild when both of the athletes 
cleared the bar.
     Finally, the bar was set at seventeen feet, six and one-half 
inches.  This height would set a new national record. The other jumper 
went first; Michael could not watch.  The sound from the crowd told the 
story; the other gentleman did not make it.
     Michael lined up for his final triumph.  His heart was beating, 
the height was unbelievable, 18 and one-half inches higher than the 
previous record, and there was complete silence in the stand, much like 
there is in this great audience.
     He sprinted down and vaulted into the air and the crowd went wild, 
and he knew he had made it.  The new champion did not look up to see if 
the bar was still standing, he didn't look out in the bleachers to see 
that his mother and father were crying for, you see, Michael Stone is 
totally blind.
     That is a moving story.  It means something to us, a  tremendous 
story because Michael had courage and determination. For veterans, the 
competition is not over.  We cannot see all of the obstacles, but like 
him veterans have courage and determination to keep the promises to 
those who ran the good race before us and keep that promise, we shall.  
Thank you and may  God bless each and every one of you.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you, Mr. Secretary.  I was very 
proud to be able to present a special award to those employees of the 
Veterans Administration, because back in the time that the Secretary 
referred to, back in the midst of that budget debate, back when both 
sides of the aisle had held American veterans hostage, the bright 
shining light, as it always has been with the VA employees who day 
after day went to work, day after day, whether they were paid or not.  
Thank you for that.  (Applause)

        PRESENTATION OF VFW GOLD MEDAL OF MERIT AND CITATION

            TO LADIES AUXILIARY PRESIDENT HELEN LENEHAN

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  From Americanism to cancer research, 
from Buddy Poppy to the Voice of Democracy, the Ladies Auxiliary to the 
Veterans of Foreign Wars is a vital  part of every success we achieve.  
That is why it is a great honor to welcome our next guest, Helen 
Lenehan, National President of the Ladies Auxiliary.
     Helen was elected President of the Ladies Auxiliary at their 82nd 
National Convention in Phoenix, Arizona, August, 1995.  Her theme, 
``Climbing to Greater Heights'', has been an inspiration and a 
challenge to the 759,000 members of the  Auxiliary.
     Through their programs and in their support of VFW programs, the 
Ladies Auxiliary serves America's veterans, their families and our 
communities.  In their cancer aid and research program, they set 
another milestone.  This was the eighth consecutive year that donations 
topped the $3 million mark. Just think about that for a moment, over $3 
million for the eighth consecutive year.  That took a lot of dedication 
and hard work.
     So, too, did their work in their ``Get Out the Vote'' campaign.  
You know, free elections are what all of us served in the military to 
defend and protect.  But it isn't enough just to defend and protect 
them in the heat of battle.  To really preserve that freedom, you have 
to continue the fight in peace time and that requires a lot of work.
     Letters, phone calls and visits with our elected  officials are 
the ammunition we need to continue our fight for freedom and democracy, 
and the Ladies Auxiliary set some new records in that battle as well.
     In everything they do they show a respect for our history and a 
willingness to meet the challenges of the future.  Not only did they 
celebrate the 109th birthday of the Statue of Liberty this year, they 
also made a substantial contribution to having her story placed on the 
Worldwide Web so that it will be accessible to everyone with a 
computer.
     Now, that is certainly a shining example of being aware of the 
times and being relevant to the times, and it is that which makes the 
Ladies Auxiliary so successful in everything they do.
     The 1995-'96 year has indeed been one of record setting success 
for the Ladies Auxiliary under the outstanding leadership of Helen 
Lenehan.
     Now, please join me in honoring the Ladies Auxiliary to the VFW by 
presenting the VFW Gold Medal of Merit and Citation to their National 
President and my friends, Helen Lenehan of that great Centennial State, 
Colorado.
     ``Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Gold Medal of 
Merit and this Citation awarded to Helen Lenehan, National President of 
the Ladies Auxiliary to the Veterans of Foreign Wars, 1995-'96.
     ``In special recognition of her untiring dedication to our country 
and in sincere appreciation for her enthusiastic leadership as 
evidenced by the exceptional contributions of the Ladies Auxiliary to 
the programs and purposes of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, and by their deeds  fulfillment of the commitment of the Ladies 
Auxiliary as they continue `Climbing to Greater Heights'.
     ``In Witness Whereof, we have hereunto set our hands and the 
official seal of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, 
this 19th day of August, 1996.''  That has proudly been signed by Paul 
A. Spera, Commander-in-Chief, and Larry W. Rivers, Adjutant General.  
Congratulations.

        RESPONSE - LADIES AUXILIARY PRESIDENT HELEN LENEHAN

     LADIES AUXILIARY PRESIDENT LENEHAN:  To Commander-in-Chief Spera, 
National VFW and Auxiliary Officers, Comrades, Sisters and Guests:
     I am so deeply honored to receive this prestigious award from the 
Veterans of Foreign Wars.  Thank you so very, very much.  This past 
year has been a very rewarding year for me.  I thank you for the 
opportunity to serve and the privilege of representing the Ladies 
Auxiliary to the Veterans of Foreign Wars in events around the world.
     The 758,891 members of the Ladies Auxiliary have always been very 
proud of our partnership with the VFW and its past year has been no 
exception.  We appreciate participating together in making a different 
stay by providing volunteer services to help our homeless veterans in 
our community and throughout our country.
     I want to say a special thank you to Commander-in-Chief and each 
VFW member here today for joining in my special project and for 
answering the ``Call to Duty'' so that our homeless veterans might have 
a better world and a chance to climb to greater heights.
     By continuing our work together, hopefully we can make these 
veterans get back into the mainstream of society again.  There is still 
so much to do.  The members of the Ladies Auxiliary are ready and 
willing to do what we can to get the job done.
     Commander-in-Chief Paul Spera, it was such a great pleasure to 
serve with you, and in behalf of all the members of the Ladies 
Auxiliary, I do wish you a very successful National Convention.  Thank 
you, Paul, so very, very much.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Why don't you stay here for just a 
moment and we will do this together.  This is where the video was 
supposed to be presented.  When I issued the new program to provide 
free long distance service to our servicemen overseas in hospitals and 
veterans at the Washington Conference, the overwhelming reaction was 
that that is a great idea.
     That program is now called ``Operation Uplink'' and in truth none 
of us had any idea how great it would become.  As I speak this morning, 
troops in Bosnia and hospitalized veterans across the U.S. are carrying 
this little card in their pocket. Each time they use it, their 
appreciation for the VFW and the Ladies Auxiliary grows deeper.
     In time, we hope Operation Uplink will place a pre-paid long 
distance card in the hands of every man and woman serving in uniform 
overseas and every needed hospitalized veteran in every VA Hospital 
coast to coast.  When that occurs, I have no doubt that the VFW and its 
Ladies Auxiliary will have made more lasting friends than we can now 
imagine.                     
     I am also pleased to report that both Jim Nier and John Moon share 
my enthusiasm for this project.  They have indicated their commitment 
to take Operation Uplink as far as it can go.  As with every successful 
effort, we are always indebted to the lovely ladies of our Auxiliary.
     To express her enthusiasm for Operation Uplink, please welcome our 
Ladies Auxiliary President, Helen Lenehan.
     LADIES AUXILIARY PRESIDENT LENEHAN:  Thank you, Paul. I, too, am 
delighted with the early success of Operation Uplink.  This exciting 
effort has already captured the hearts of our nation's Auxiliary.  Many 
of us have spent countless hours living in hospitals and we understand 
what a phone call to a spouse or a family member means during 
hospitalization for an illness or injury.
     As President of the Ladies Auxiliary, I have visited the troops 
overseas and I can testify as to their dire needs for contact with 
their loved ones at home.  I share Paul's commitment to Operation 
Uplink, and I know that Eileen Tanner shares that commitment.  In fact, 
she has made it her special project for next year.
     I believe that together for years to come, the VFW and the Ladies 
Auxiliary, we will see Operation Uplink grow to become a permanent part 
of our two great organizations.  I know you agree, Eileen.  Thank you 
very much.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you very much, Helen, and thank 
you, Eileen, Jim Nier and John Moon for your commitment to the future 
of that program.
     I am going to take a special moment of personal privilege to say a 
special thank you.  We announced this at the  Washington Conference and 
on Wednesday, when they returned home, I am very pleased and very proud 
to say that Post 697 in Whitman, Massachusetts, sent the first check 
for $1,000 on that night for this program.
     I am really proud of the VFW Posts.  Operation Uplink is a solid 
working relationship with a long distance company.  I believe that we 
have found one which shares our concerns for the troops and the 
veterans.  That long distance carrier is MCI, and Mr. Robert Washburn 
is here today representing MCI.
     Bob will be available at the Operation Uplink booth, so please 
drop by and ask him any questions that you may have. I strongly urge 
each of you to contribute generously to Operation Uplink.  Drop by the 
booth here at the Convention and find out more about this outstanding 
effort.
     The program is designed to provide $20 worth of long distance 
conversation for every dollar we raise.  I firmly believe that 
Operation Uplink will be the most significant effort the VFW and the 
Ladies Auxiliary have ever directed in the active duty military.
     Having seen that firsthand, I will tell you at the close of this 
Convention I will forward to Quartermaster  General a personal check 
for $1,000 as my contribution to Operation Uplink.


          INTRODUCTION OF THE HONORABLE SONNY MONTGOMERY

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Comrades, Sisters and Friends, it is my 
pleasure and privilege to present the Veterans of Foreign Wars 
Commander-in-Chief's Special Award to a most distinguished member of 
the United States House of Representatives, Sonny Montgomery.
     A Life Member of Veterans of Foreign Wars' Post 79 in Meridian, 
Mississippi, and the recipient of our most  prestigious VFW 
Congressional Award, Sonny Montgomery will have served 30 years in 
Congress when he retires at the end of the 104th Congress.
     A key member of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs and the 
Committee on National Security, Sonny Montgomery has kept vigil over 
the benefits and services for our military men and women, our veterans 
and their families.
     Congressman G. V. ``Sonny'' Montgomery has served the Congress and 
the American people with distinction.  He has given a lifetime of 
service, over 40 years, to our country in uniform, to his State 
Legislature and to our nation in  Washington, D.C.
     He is a veteran of World War II and Korea.  He has been decorated 
with the Legion of Merit and the Bronze Star for Valor, among many 
other awards.  He did not stop with active duty service but continued 
to serve in the National Guard and the Reserves, rising to the rank of 
Brigadier General.
     Among Sonny's many accomplishments, his biggest achievement was 
the creation of the new G.I. Bill passed in 1985 and improved in 1988.  
It is fitting that it is now called the Montgomery G.I. Bill which 
associates his efforts with one  of the greatest bills ever passed by 
Congress.
     An active leader in seeking improved programs and support for 
America's veterans as well as ensuring that our nation remains 
militarily strong, Sonny Montgomery is a great statesman, a great 
leader and a great American.
     I am honored, as your Commander-in-Chief, to present this 
Commander-in-Chief's Special Award.  Comrades, please welcome a 
distinguished member of our organization from the great State of 
Mississippi, the Honorable G. V. ``Sonny'' Montgomery.
     ``Commander-in-Chief's Special Award presented to G. V. `Sonny' 
Montgomery.
     ``In commemoration of a distinguished career devoted to the 
service of America's veterans and the preservation of our patriotic 
values and freedom through a strong national defense.
     ``Presented August 19, 1996, Paul A. Spera, Commander-in-Chief.''
     Congratulations, Sonny, and on behalf of all American veterans, 
thank you and God bless you for all you have done for us.

        RESPONSE - THE HONORABLE G. V. ``SONNY'' MONTGOMERY

     COMRADE SONNY MONTGOMERY:  Thank you very much, Commander, for 
that very fine introduction, and thank you for the special award and 
presentation.  I am very deeply honored, and it is wonderful to be back 
with my comrades.  To you, Commander-in-Chief Spera and to President 
Helen Lenehan, I guess that I got that correct, of the Ladies 
Auxiliary, congratulations.
     I am familiar with Operation Uplink in the Jackson VA Hospital.  I 
had the privilege of answering some of the phone calls that might have 
been from Secretary Brown when we have the toll phones that are in our 
VA Hospitals in those different rooms.  It is a wonderful program.
     To my fellow veterans and to Secretary Brown, it is really kind of 
unfair to follow you and President Helen.  You did such a wonderful 
job.  He was talking about Congressman, Secretary Brown was.  I want to 
tell you a little story on him. On September 12th, I will be honored in 
a big banquet, and I personally invited the Secretary to come to this 
banquet.
     He said, ``Mr. Chairman, I can't come because you cut my budget 75 
percent.''  I said, ``Jesse, it is only eight blocks away from your 
office.  It is not in Mississippi.''  Is that true, Jesse?
      VA SECRETARY BROWN:  Yes.
     COMRADE SONNY MONTGOMERY:  It is wonderful to be with you and to 
have been Chairman of the Veterans Affairs Committee for 15 wonderful 
years, and that is as the ranking member. Congressman Bob Stump of 
Arizona is the Chairman now.  He and I work well together.
     The bottom lines for both of us is what is best for veterans.  I 
understand that you-all will present an award to my former Chief 
Attorney of the Veterans Affairs Committee, Max Flemming, later.  What 
a wonderful job he did for veterans and helping me.  Max, if you are 
out there, hold up your hand.  I can't see you anyway, but hold it up.
     In 1899, most of you know, 13 American soldiers who had fought in 
the Spanish American War were disturbed that this country had 
apparently forgotten them.  They met in the back of a tailor shop in 
Columbus, Ohio, and they decided to establish a club for veterans who 
had served overseas.
     They pledged to help one another, to work together for the benefit 
of the country and for the men who had fought to preserve it.  The 
organization established by these veterans was the forerunner, I am 
told, of the national organization which we now know as the  Veterans 
of Foreign Wars of the United States.
     Since its very beginning, our organization, and it is mine, too, 
has been based on the principles of comradeship, patriotism and 
service, and I am very proud to have been mentioned by your National 
Commander to be a Life Member of Post 79, Meridian, Mississippi.  You 
fellows are out there somewhere.  Let me hear from you.  I know all of 
you.
     Each year I have been invited to either make a major address in my 
Post in Meridian on the 4th of July, or talk on Veterans Day.  I want 
to thank the National Air Guard for getting me here on time today.  
General Finestein, wave your hand.
     I know that I am among friends.  When you come to Washington to 
make your annual legislative presentation, you are certainly among 
friends there.  All of us really on the  Veterans Affairs Committee 
have chosen to serve on this Committee because we do care about 
veterans, and with the advice, support and assistance of the VFW I feel 
we have accomplished, in my opinion, a great deal.
     I want to mention about your annual dinner that you have in 
Washington where you honor members of Congress and where the Voice of 
Democracy young people speak.  That is a wonderful event.  That has 
more members of Congress attending your annual dinner up there than any 
other event.
     Members don't go to many events at night.  You start it at 7:00 
o'clock at night and you are over at 9:15.  So keep it up.  I 
congratulate you.  I salute your Chief Sergeant-at-Arms  George Sarver 
for the job he has done and for your different Sergeants-at-Arms that 
you have in Washington and all here today.
     I want to take a moment here to express special thanks to the VFW 
Adjutant General Larry Rivers and Rosemary Mazer of the Ladies 
Auxiliary for your generous support of the college scholarship program 
which has been established in my name.
     I will never forget the kindness of the VFW.  It has meant a lot 
to me.  Throughout the years, the Veterans of Foreign Wars have worked 
closely with us, and I believe we have had a great team.  You don't get 
everything you want.  Your Washington staff is excellent as well as 
your headquarters staff in Kansas City.
     These staffs work hard to fight and protect the veterans' 
benefits.  They couldn't do it without all of you in this audience 
today.  During the past 15 years, we have achieved success on matters 
of importance that have been mentioned by Secretary Brown.
     We have created a Department of Veterans Affairs. This is really 
true.  Now, the Secretary goes in the front door to the White House and 
not the back door.  We have a Department of Veterans Affairs, and I am 
talking about Jesse Brown.  We have established a U.S. Corps of 
Veterans Appeals to provide judicial review of VA decisions.
     With the VFW's help, we did, in fact, the G.I. Bill in 1984.  I am 
proud to say that over two million members of the armed forces have 
enrolled in this program.  In the face of Gramm-Rudman and other 
deficit reduction efforts, we have protected essential veterans' 
programs.
     Since 1987, the number of veterans who use the health-care system 
has increased by 12 percent.  I believe I can safely say that most of 
the VA Hospitals in your hometowns have been renovated or had structure 
improvements.
     I agree with Secretary Brown.  We didn't put enough money in there 
for VA construction to keep these hospitals up and build new ones.  I 
hope in the future that it can have proper funding.  I know that all of 
us listen to your World War II buddies.  You are like me.
     We are proud of our military service and we want to know that the 
national cemeteries will be available when we need them.  Don't get me 
wrong, I am not getting ready to take a bus load to heaven just yet.  
There are some applauders out there.
     We added nine new cemeteries to the system, but we need to keep 
the pressure on for additional expansion.  We also need to remind state 
officials in the state legislatures of the federal assistance available 
for them to build state veterans cemeteries.
     We have addressed counseling problems that have been going on, 
Agent Orange, Persian Gulf Syndrome, health issues related to radiation 
exposure, and homeless veterans.  We work very hard to find ways to 
help the homeless veterans.  That is a tough issue.
     We must continue our efforts to come up with new ideas that will 
help get our comrades off the streets.  We have a good chance to enact 
legislation that has been mentioned by the Secretary, supported by the 
VFW that would broaden and simplify eligibility for VA health care, 
making it easier to get treatment in our outpatient clinics.
     Also President Clinton announced his support for a test program 
under which the VA would be reimbursed by Medicare for the cost of 
treating some Medicare eligible veterans.  I hope we can get this 
program passed.
     I want to add that Jesse Brown has been a fine Secretary of 
Veterans Affairs.  He speaks up for the veterans and tells it like it 
is.  He is a dedicated advocate whose honesty and support for veterans 
had angered some in Congress and he has angered some in the White 
House.  Jesse is a courageous man, who sincerely cares about all of 
you.  I am proud to call him my friend.  Thank you, Jesse.
     To be successful in the future, the organization must continue to 
work hard, to remain visible in your communities and speak out on 
behalf of veterans and make a point of visiting your members of 
Congress whenever he or she is in town.  It is great when your 
Washington staff and national officers meet with them, but nothing 
makes more of an impression on members of Congress than meeting 
face-to-face with a VFW member who can vote for that Congressman or can 
vote against that Congressman.
     We veterans, and I want to make this a strong point in my remarks 
today, have done our part to reduce the budget deficit.  We have cut 
everything we can cut in veterans programs.  We have cut enough, and I 
say very strongly  here today no more cuts in veterans' programs.  We 
have had enough.
     I really think some of my colleagues have problems understanding 
that we veterans earned these benefits through our service.  All of you 
marched off to war.  Some of you came back seriously wounded, some did 
not come back.  So we are not asking for anything.
     The government has an obligation to take care of its veterans.  I 
was given eight minutes.  I did ad lib some, but I am on my last two 
pages.  Having served our wonderful nation in one capacity or another 
since World War II, I have seen a well-deserved expansion of veterans' 
programs.
     I am proud of the many things that we have accomplished together.  
I will never forget all of you who have helped in the fight to achieve 
our goals.  This is the last time I will have the honor of addressing 
this fine organization as a member of Congress.
     This has been a great ride for me, especially because I have been 
privileged to work on behalf of the veterans and on behalf of a strong 
national defense.  Please, VFW, keep a strong national defense.  For 30 
years I have met with servicemen and women the world over, from Europe 
to the Pacific, from Korea to Vietnam, from Bosnia and the Persian 
Gulf.
     I am always impressed with these young men and women. They inspire 
me to continue my efforts to maintain a strong national defense and to 
provide these young Americans with the tools they need to face the 
challenges when they come home.  I have shared these concerns with the 
VFW and you have always been supportive of what is needed for these 
young people.
     Well, that is about it for me.  It is time for me to move on.  
Now, I limp a little, I don't stand as straight as I used to, but when 
the American and VFW flags come by I can stand straight and give a 
statue salute.  God bless you and God bless America.

        INTRODUCTION - DEAN HOKE, CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
                   OF THE MILITARY CHANNEL

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  In 1997, American audiences will begin 
enjoying a national cable channel dedicated to telling the story of 
America's men and women in uniform.  This channel is currently 
broadcasting overseas in the Pacific and has been well received by the 
public everywhere.
     The Military Channel broadcasts military history and weapons 
technology documentaries, combat footage, war films and a variety of 
military and veteran-related programming.  They are currently 
broadcasting the VFW's commercials in the Pacific Areas and have been 
kind enough to bring their mini-theater to the Convention for your 
entertainment.
     Here to tell you a little about their future plans is the Chief 
Operating Officer for the Military Channel, Dean E. Hoke.

            REMARKS - DEAN HOKE, CEO, THE MILITARY CHANNEL

     MR. DEAN HOKE:  Good morning to all of you.  Let me also welcome 
you to Louisville, Kentucky.  The Military Channel is located, by the 
way, the corporate headquarters are here.  We appreciate the 
opportunity to present you with this new exciting network, in which we 
anticipate launching on cable channels throughout the United States by 
mid-year 1997.
     We have been asked by the VFW to tell you more about the Military 
Channel and its future plans.  The Military Channel will provide 
military news information, commemorative and veterans' programs to 
cable viewers on a full-time basis. The Channel's vision is education 
with informed entertainment to enlighten its audience.
     The channel is independent of any government organization and that 
independence makes The Military Channel a unique voice in the 
discussion of military topics.  The Military Channel provides a wide 
variety of documentaries and military history, such as Dateline World 
War II, which is a 52-part series about the Second World War.
     Also there will be up close and personal look at our armed forces 
and modern military technology.  Our news and public affairs coverage 
will give the viewers the in-depth analysis of the important news and 
issues that impact upon national security.
     The Military Channel also will produce programs for you as 
veterans who have served the country proudly, and these programs will 
focus on benefits and services available to all the veterans.  Now, 
during the next few days you will have the opportunity to come and see 
us by visiting The Military Channel at our theater, which is located on 
the second floor.
     As a matter of fact, beginning in about 20 minutes, we will begin 
airing a series of programs such as Dateline World War II, the Future 
Power Tools of the Trade, and it will give you a chance to see what 
this channel is going to be all about.  More importantly, you also will 
get a chance to be involved in a television show.
     As a matter of fact, to see a bit of a sneak preview of the 
series, we are working on a series called ``War Stories.'' So often in 
the passage of time, the events of history become lost.  Books can tell 
us about times and tell us about dates, names and places and what 
occurred, and how it fits into the larger historical picture, but what 
it often fails to convey is the human elements of those events.
     The sight and sounds and motion that make an event real are 
frequently lost in translation of the words, photos and film.  The 
Military Channel hears all these war stories, and sought to remedy this 
by taking those who not only witnessed history but helped make it.
     ``War Stories'' provide them an opportunity to tell their stories 
from their point of view.  ``War Stories'' attaches many names and 
faces that might otherwise may be just so many words on a page.  
     Now, during the Convention, The Military Channel will be 
interviewing a number of VFW members about their war experiences, and 
yet we are still looking for a few good men and women to participate.  
If you would like to be involved in ``War Stories'', if you would like 
to tell us your story, here is your chance.
     Today at 12:30 we are going to be sitting down with anyone who 
would like to talk to us about their war experiences, and this will be 
in Room 213 at The Military Channel theater.  So remember at 12:30 
today, if you are interested in talking to The Military Channel about 
our series ``War Stories'' and tell us about your experiences, please 
come on up.  We very much would like to talk to you.
     Now, this series will air on many TCI cable systems in the next 
few months and also will be a part of our regular network line-up when 
we have our project in 1997.  If you want to become a television star, 
today is your chance.  When you have a few minutes, please stop by the 
theater and get a sneak peek of the entire program line-up of the 
channel.
     I wish to thank the VFW for allowing The Military Channel to be a 
part of this year's Convention.  We look forward to meeting many of you 
during the next few days.  I want to thank you for coming to our town.  
We are greatly pleased.
     One last thing I would like to bring up just because I heard a 
little bit about this Operation Uplink.  The Military Channel is just 
like any other company.  In a sense, we have a number of employees that 
work for us, but we also have Retired Major General John Laughlin, who 
has served his time in Bosnia for the last six months.
     I remember John calling me one day and telling me about this 
program and how wonderful he thought it was and what a great 
opportunity it was for him to be able to call his wife.  Believe me, I 
talked to his wife and she was equally proud and excited to be able to 
talk to John during that time because she was concerned about him and 
to find out what was going on in Bosnia, it is not her idea of fun.
     I want to thank the VFW for being involved in such an important 
program and what one of our employees thought was a great idea.  On 
behalf of The Military Channel, Commander-in-Chief, thank you for 
everything you have done.

            INTRODUCTION OF LIEUTENANT GENERAL LU CHAO, 
                      VACRS VICE CHAIRMAN

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  For years the Veterans of Foreign Wars 
has enjoyed a warm relationship with the Vocational Assistance 
Commission in the Republic of China on Taiwan.  They have truly been 
our friends.  The Veterans of Foreign Wars has consistently pledged its 
support through resolutions for our friends in the Republic of China on 
Taiwan.
     The citizens of the Republic of China on Taiwan are proud of their 
success and economic achievement.
     Certainly, that success, in large part, can be attributed to the 
employment and development programs that the Republic conducts for its 
veterans.
     The tremendous care, support and vitality of its veterans programs 
have been an inspiration and model for the  VFW.  We wish to thank our 
friends with VACRS for their long and beneficial friendship.
     Joining us today to reaffirm our pledge of brotherhood and 
comradeship is the Vice-Chairman of VACRS, Lieutenant General Yu Chao.
     Comrades, please welcome the Vice-Chairman of the  Vocational 
Assistance Commission for Retired Servicemen.

                RESPONSE - LIEUTENANT GENERAL YU CHAO

     LIEUTENANT GENERAL YU CHAO: Commander-in-Chief, Distinguished 
Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen:
     It is a great honor to have this opportunity to represent the 
Chairman of the Vocational Assistance Commission for Retired Servicemen 
of the Republic of China.  I take great pleasure in addressing your 
National Convention and all the friends we have in the VFW.
     Your organization is composed of American veterans who have taken 
part in foreign wars.  The VFW, as America's oldest veterans' 
organization, has made significant contributions to the United States, 
both in veterans' programs and in the security of the nation.
     The VFW has consistently taken courageous stands for a strong 
national defense, even at times when such a position was unpopular with 
the news media and other influential organizations.  You have always 
advocated dynamic alliances with America's traditional friends in the 
Far East.
     We, at VACRS, are particularly pleased that you have consistently 
supported the Republic of China in both political and military affairs.  
The Republic of China wishes to maintain friendly relations with the 
United States, in the spirit of freedom and democracy.
     Accordingly, we wish to make our contribution to regional 
security, in coordination with the relevant authorities of the United 
States.  We, therefore, hope that the VFW will continue to support our 
country with your resolutions, just as you have done in the past.
     In closing, I give you my best regards for a most successful 
Convention, and my hopes that the VFW and VACRS will constantly strive 
to enhance our relationship for the mutual benefit for all veterans in 
our countries, especially with the war so far behind us.  Thank you, 
Commander-in-Chief Spera, and ladies and gentlemen in the audience.  
Thank you very much. 
     MR. CHARLES KAN:  On behalf of the President of my country, Lee 
Teng-Hui, my boss, Lieutenant Yu Chao, I would like to present this 
Medal of the Order of Cloud and Banner to Commander-in-Chief Paul 
Spera.  I would like to read it at this time.
     ``Mr. Paul A. Spera, Commander-in-Chief of the Veterans of Foreign 
Wars of the United States, has distinguished himself by his outstanding 
contributions to the promotion of friendly relations between the 
peoples of the United States of America and the Republic of China and 
to the enhancement of ties and cooperation between the veterans of our 
two countries.
     ``In appreciation of his meritorious service, Commander-in-Chief 
Spera is presented the Order of the Cloud and Banner with Cravat by the 
Republic of China, in accordance with Article XI of the Armed Forces 
Decoration Regulation.  It has been signed by Dr. Teng-Hui, President, 
Lien Chan, Premier, and General Son Chen, Minister of National 
Defense.''
     There is more.  In behalf of my boss, General Yu Chao of the 
Vocational Assistance Commission for Servicemen in my country, I would 
like to present a plaque in appreciation of Commander-in-Chief's 
contributions to enhancing the friendship between our two nations.  
Once again, I would like to read the inscription.  I am getting old.  I 
need my glasses.
     ``Presented to Mr. Paul A. Spera, Commander-in-Chief, Veterans of 
Foreign Wars of the United States, in appreciation of his outstanding 
contributions to the enactment of friendship and cooperation between 
the Veterans of Foreign Wars and VACRS.''
     This has been signed by the Chairman of the Vocational Assistance 
Commission for Retired Servicemen in Taiwan, August 19, 1996.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you very much for the high honor 
you have paid me and to the Veterans of Foreign  Wars.


                INTRODUCTION - DAVID CHRISTIANSEN,
              FOUNDER OF FLAGS OF FREEDOM FOUNDATION

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Our next guest is the founder and 
current President of the Flags of Freedom Foundation in Wapakoneta, 
Ohio.
     Flags of Freedom, located on Interstate 75 in  Wapakoneta, next to 
the Neil Armstrong Air & Space Museum, will soon be our nation's 
largest tribute to the American Flag and our national heritage.  VFW 
Posts across the country have supported this grand effort from the 
beginning nearly four years ago.
     Here to give us an update on the project is Flags of Freedom 
Foundation Founder and President David P. Christiansen.

               REMARKS - MR. DAVID CHRISTIANSEN

     MR. CHRISTIANSEN:  Commander-in-Chief, Special Guests and Members:  
I want to thank the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States of 
America for the privilege of addressing the 97th National Convention 
today.  I would like to also thank the VFW for its enforcement of Flags 
of Freedom Foundation in the Freedom Flag process.
     We are delighted to be associated with the VFW and it is a great 
honor to be here today.  I do not say honor literally, and I do not say 
it simply as a matter of courtesy. I say it because I stand here before 
a unique group of Americans, a group of Americans that when called upon 
by his country to answer that call without any question.
     We asked you to perform your duties.  You performed them with 
dignity and respect.  When told you go to into battle, you went without 
expectation of any fanfare or any special recognition.  It is in this 
room today that I can see a few good men and women that aimed high, 
moved full speed ahead and were all they could be.
     So it is indeed a great honor to stand here before you today, and 
I want to personally thank each and every one of you for the service 
you have given to your country for it is because of you that I am able 
to stand here today and talk to you.
     Even though you have already given more of yourself than most 
people will ever dream of, I would like to ask you to serve your 
country just one more time.  This time it is in a very different 
capacity.  As individual citizens, concerned about the education of 
your children and your children's children, you can do this by 
supporting the Flags of Freedom Foundation and the Freedom Field 
Project.
     To tell you more about the Freedom Field Project, I would like to 
introduce to you an extremely good friend of mine, a former Marine, a 
Vietnam veteran, one of your own VFW members, and Vice-President of the 
Flags of Freedom Foundation. Please welcome Larry McClain.
     COMRADE LARRY McCLAIN:  Thank you, David.  Dave Christiansen 
established the Flags of Freedom Foundation for one purpose, and one 
purpose only.  That was to create a wonderful kind of educational park 
and monument to the American Flag.
     You might say why do we need another monument for you who fought 
the country and fought for the flag.  We feel the flag and money men in 
and of itself.  Dave is concerned, and I am concerned and you are 
concerned that we see an increasing disrespect, use and even 
desecration of our beloved flag.
     Recently, I found myself being in the minority standing with my 
hand on my heart singing the Star Spangled Banner.  It seems that in 
some high schools people don't even sing anymore.  I heard of a museum 
that opened recently where in order to enter the museum you had to 
first walk across the flag of the United States.
     Recently, in Phoenix, Arizona, they had a display of the American 
Flag stuffed in a toilet, and these people hide by the name of artists.  
You have all heard the story about the desecration of the American Flag 
and flag burnings, and these people hide behind the name of free 
speech.
     Not only is the flag being desecrated but also our  American 
history.  The Federal Department of Education has tried to introduce 
revised history books which would exclude, if they had their way, such 
things as Paul Revere, George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, the 
Gettysburg Address, Thomas Edison, Einstein, the Wright brothers, 
General Eisenhower, Neil  Armstrong, the flag raising on Iwo Jima, 
General MacArthur, stories of IUS battles, and the list goes on and on.
     The Flags of Freedom Field Foundation will not be only a tribute 
to our flag but an educational park for future generations to preserve 
the true history of the United States.  Ladies and gentlemen, good or 
bad, right or wrong, our history is our history.
     We should be proud of our successes and learn from our mistakes, 
and create a better America for all of us.  You don't rewrite history 
just to make a few people feel good about themselves.  At Freedom Field 
we want to show younger generations that freedom is not free, there is 
a tremendous price to be paid.
     It is an ongoing struggle that needs to be protected.  Even though 
Freedom Field will be a park for all Americans, a large portion is 
dedicated to the veterans.  I want those who visit the park to realize 
that the thousands and thousands of brave young men and women who died 
and then paid the sacrifice for their country, gave up all their 
tomorrows so we can enjoy our todays.
     Freedom Field will never forget those who went before us.  Flags 
of Freedom Foundation is a not-for-profit 501(3)(c) organization and we 
are having donations from all over this country.  Since we are not 
accepting any tax monies or federal grants to construct or operate 
Freedom Field, we are counting on individual donations from Americans 
all over the nation.
     This is where I need your help as fellow veterans. Each VFW Post 
nationwide should have received information under  VFW cover describing 
Freedom Field and how your Post as well as each individual can become 
involved with our project.  Anyone, veterans or non-veterans, can 
donate.
     Anyone who donates $50 or more towards the construction of Freedom 
Field will be recognized with an imprinted brick bearing your name, 
hometown and state, or a memorial brick, which will be placed in 
Freedom Wall throughout the park.
     When people leave Freedom Field, we want them to have a renewed 
sense of patriotism and profound respect for the flag of the United 
States.  Stop by our booth this week and see the model of the proposed 
park and we will try to answer any questions that you might have.
     Remember, Freedom Field will not just be another park, but a 
monument to observe the history, the freedom and  the glory of the flag 
and the country that we love so dearly. 
     Thank you and God bless you.

          INTRODUCTION OF LIEUTENANT GENERAL KAP-JIN CHOI,
                    KOREAN VETERANS ASSOCIATION

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  During the Korean War, we stood 
shoulder-to-shoulder with our comrades in Korea on freedom's front 
line.  Together, we shared the hardships and agonies of a war that took 
a terrible toll not only in lives but the very fiber of a nation.  
During the difficult days of the Vietnam War our allies from the 
Republic of Korea joined us in fulfilling our commitment in Vietnam.
     Today, Korea, through the sheer dynamics and energy of its people 
has emerged as an economic power basin in that region of the world, an 
achievement made possible by the sacrifices of gallant veterans, 
Americans and Koreans.  We take great pride in that special 
relationship we share with the Korean Veterans Association.  We know 
the courage and dedication of those veterans but most of all we know 
their friendship.
     It gives me great pleasure to introduce our comrade-in-arms, 
Lieutenant General Kap-Jin Choi, Vice President of the Korean Veterans 
Association.
     Comrades, please join me in giving General Choi a warm VFW 
welcome.

            REMARKS - LIEUTENANT GENERAL KAP-JIN CHOI

     LIEUTENANT GENERAL CHOI: Commander-in-Chief Spera, Distinguished 
Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen:
     It is a great honor for me to be invited to attend the 97th Annual 
Convention of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States.  I 
extend a warm greeting from the members of the Korean Veterans 
Association.  Her Air Force was real.  The crisis in North Korea 
comprised the nation in June 25, 1950. 
     The United States not only saved our country but also later 
provided us with a monumental amount of aid.  We asked for your 
assistance.  The freedom the Department of Korea and we appreciate the 
freedom we enjoy.  On behalf of the people of the Republic of Korea, I 
thank you from the bottom of my heart.
     Fifty years later, the United States sends Korea 320,000 troops to 
fight against our common enemy in the Vietnam  War.  Later we were 
given back our homes, showing us a strong prayer of U.S. military 
partnership.  This special relationship was further developed as we 
enter the 21st Century.
     That is ensuring reconciliation and peace.  Korea has never 
abandoned its initial duty to Seoul, Korea.  Seoul,  Korea, is 
implementing the nuclear agreement.  They signed with  the U.S.  They 
also put it in your Executive Bylaw in South Korea.  There are four 
South Korea relationships.  We are unable to escape from it.
     As you are well aware, North Korea is currently facing serious 
shortages and economic loss.  They may feel that  perhaps there is 
Communism coming this year.  This situation increases the possibility 
that North Korea might wage another war is of great concern to us.
     Please be aware of the situation and give us your support in our 
effort to maintain peace.  We in Korea are happy that the historical 
War Veterans Memorial was dedicated on July 27th of last year in 
Washington, D.C.  About 600 Korean War  Veterans from our Association 
attended the dedication ceremonies.
     The memorial served as a reminder and a lasting friendship and 
keeper of our two countries. Dear friends, we of the Korean Veterans 
Association appreciate the strong support for the security of Korea.  
We are proud of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and we have great pride in 
our friendship.
     In closing, I sincerely hope your Convention will be successful, 
and at this time on behalf of the five million members of the Korean 
Veterans Association, I would like to take this opportunity to present 
a Plaque of Appreciation to Commander-in-Chief Spera who had promoted 
friendly relations between the two organizations.  Thank you very much.

         INTRODUCTION - MOC SUPREME COMMANDER GARY STRAUSS

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  A national gathering of the Veterans of 
Foreign Wars would not be complete without a visit from the Supreme 
Commander of the Military Order of the Cootie.
     Elected Supreme Commander at the 76th Supreme Scratch in 1995, 
Gary Strauss is a member of Prairie Dogs Pup Tent 44, Grand of Texas.  
He joined the VFW while stationed in Japan and with the United States 
Air Force.  While in service, he served two tours of duty in Vietnam.  
Today Gary belongs to VFW Post 4477, Dallas, Texas.
     An active and dedicated member who has served the VFW and the 
Military Order of the Cootie in elective and appointed positions, Gary 
Strauss deserves a warm VFW welcome to this National Convention.
     Ladies and gentlemen, the Supreme Commander of the Military Order 
of the Cootie, Gary Strauss.

         REMARKS - MOC SUPREME COMMANDER GARY STRAUSS

     MOC SUPREME COMMANDER STRAUSS:  Commander-in-Chief, Distinguished 
Guests at the podium, and to all the Distinguished Guests out in the 
audience:
     It is a pleasure that I represent 33,555 members of this great 
organization and for those members this year they have donated over $8 
million worth of dollar credits for the VA and medical system 
hospitals.  One other thing I would like to tell you, we did have some 
problems at the beginning of the year, but our budget looks like we 
will be $40,000 in the black.  Commander-in-Chief, thank you for this 
opportunity at this time.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you very much.  I want to thank 
each and every one of you for your patience this morning.  I know this 
has been a long session.  We have heard from some very important 
individuals.  I thank you for attending this Joint Opening Session.
     I know we are going to have a great Convention. Please remember 
tomorrow morning we will begin our session at 8:30, not 9:00 a.m.  That 
is 8:30 tomorrow morning.  I have a note here that we have an 
individual that was with us this morning.  He may still be in the 
audience.
     He is from VFW Post 8551.  He is a 94-year-old World War I veteran 
and his name is George A. Clark.  I want to welcome him to our 
Convention.  Thank you for being here. Thank you all for being here.
     We will now have our Closing Ceremonies.  Reverend Lyle Kell will 
deliver the Benediction.
     (Whereupon, National Chaplain Reverend Lyle N. Kell gave the 
Closing Prayer.)
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Sergeant-at-Arms, we will salute the 
colors, please.
     (Whereupon, the Salute to the Colors was given at this time.)
     SERGEANT-AT-ARMS SARVER:  Comrade Commander-in-Chief, the Closing 
Ceremonies have been performed.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  I now declare this Joint Opening 
Session closed.  Thank you all for your patience.
     (Whereupon, the meeting was duly recessed at 11:50 o'clock a.m.)


                     DISTINGUISHED GUESTS BANQUET

                           AUGUST 19, 1996

     (The Distinguished Guests Banquet of the Veterans of Foreign Wars 
of the United States, meeting in the Commonwealth Convention Center, 
Louisville, Kentucky, was called to order at 7:00 o'clock p.m., by W. 
J. Cannon, Chairman, Board of Directors, VFW 97th National Convention.)
     COMRADE CANNON:  Comrades, ladies and gentlemen, please give your 
attention.  Will the audience please rise and remain standing until 
after the Invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.
     I will now call on the National Chaplain of the Veterans of 
Foreign Wars, Reverend Lyle N. Kell.
     (Whereupon, the Invocation was given by National Chaplain Lyle N. 
Kell.)
     COMRADE CANNON:  Comrades, Sisters and Gentlemen, please join me 
in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of our country.
     (Whereupon, the Pledge of Allegiance was had at this time.)

                INTRODUCTION OF MASTER OF CEREMONIES

     COMRADE CANNON:  Welcome to the 97th National Convention 
Distinguished Guests Banquet.  You see them before you, of course, but 
we in the VFW consider all of you distinguished.  I consider it a 
pleasure to have the special privilege this evening of introducing a 
distinguished member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars who will serve as 
your Master of Ceremonies for the remainder of this evening.
     Jim Nier was elected Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief, at the VFW's 
96th National Convention in Phoenix.  Jim is the third Texan to be 
elected to this high office.
     Following a distinguished military career, which included service 
in Vietnam and Korea, Jim served as an Assistant Director of Personnel, 
and later a mathematics instructor at El Paso Community College.
     In January, 1987, he was appointed as Director of the Veterans 
Assistance Office for El Paso County, a county with over 54,000 
veterans.
     A Life Member of VFW Post 8919 in El Paso, Jim has held numerous 
VFW offices at the Post, District, Department and National levels.  He 
earned All-American honors as a District Commander in 1987 and as State 
Commander of Texas in 1990.
     I am most pleased to introduce to you the Senior Vice 
Commander-in-Chief of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Jim Nier from the 
great Lone Star state of Texas.
     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF NIER:  Thank you, W. J., for that 
very kind introduction.
     Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished and honored guests, I am proud 
to serve as your Master of Ceremonies this evening.  I know we have a 
very special program, but before we begin that program we would like to 
serve dinner.  For your dining pleasure we have a musical group with us 
called the ``New Odyssey.''
     Whatever your musical interests are, this group will cover them 
from Beethoven to be-bop; from the 40's to thee 80's, they can play it 
all.  Now, with four band members playing 30 different instruments, 
let's enjoy this very popular group, ``New Odyssey.''
     (Whereupon, the dinner was served at this time.)
     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF NIER:  Ladies and gentlemen, may I 
have your attention, please.  Will everyone please be seated so we can 
introduce our distinguished guests. It is now my honor to introduce our 
head table guests.
     (Whereupon, Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief Nier introduced the 
distinguished guests at this time.)

          INTRODUCTION OF COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF PAUL A. SPERA

     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF NIER:  I am privileged this evening 
to introduce to this very special audience the National 
Commander-in-Chief of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States.
     Since its beginning, the VFW has drawn together dedicated men and 
women who share the same concern and love for America and its veterans.  
With a long and proud history of accomplishments, the VFW has always 
been in the forefront of every constructive program to set forth, 
expand and protect the rights and privileges of America's veterans.
     Whether its efforts are for a strong national defense or concern 
for the nation's veterans, the VFW must have inspired leaders who will 
guide us wisely.  We have been most fortunate to have a man of this 
stature to guide us this year. 
     Throughout his 30 years of active involvement with the Veterans of 
Foreign Wars, Paul Spera has been a man on the move, helping his fellow 
veterans and his community.  In keeping with his motto ``Call to 
Duty,'' he has worked hard to address the concerns, the resolves and 
the mandates of the VFW.
     Ladies and gentlemen, I am pleased to introduce to you a man 
dedicated to working for America's veterans and the Veterans of Foreign 
Wars, our Commander-in-Chief, Paul Spera,  from the great state of 
Massachusetts.
     (Whereupon, the assembly extended a prolonged standing ovation.)
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you, Jim, for that very generous 
and warm introduction.  My remarks tonight will be very brief.  You see 
standing before you a very proud man who for the last twelve months has 
had the wonderful privilege of leading the Veterans of Foreign Wars of 
the United States. Leading this great organization is very gratifying.
     I have seen the results of the work and services of over two 
million VFW members and the 750,000 members of the Ladies Auxiliary.  
In every city and town I visited, I saw positive proof that the VFW and 
its Ladies Auxiliary are a dynamic force serving our nation's 
communities and our nation's veterans.
     This year has been a pivotal year as the VFW works to ensure that 
veterans' programs receive proper funding.  It has been a year of 
challenge as we work to maintain the integrity of the VA and seek 
eligibility reform in the VA health-care system.
     In responding to our ``Call to Duty'' theme, we have supported our 
armed forces in the need to maintain a strong national defense as 
congressional budget cutters seek to save money at the expense of our 
servicemen and comrades.
     We have visited our men and women maintaining the fragile peace 
accord in Bosnia.  How proud I was to bring your message of support and 
those wonderful VFW telephone calling cards as a visible sign of your 
support.
     The VFW will continue to lead the way in what we believe to be the 
best means of achieving our goal of the fullest possible accounting.
     We take our role seriously and will continue, as we have 
throughout the past 22 years, to monitor progress and results in 
working with Vietnam and the other governments of the region.  To do 
less would be a disservice to our members, to those missing and their 
families and a disservice to what the VFW stands for.
     Your efforts and support of every program that we have undertaken 
in the past year, whether it be in community and youth activities, 
Voice of Democracy, or Buddy Poppy, have proven that working together, 
we can be successful.
     Yes, it has been a very special year for me because I was proud to 
be with and serve with the finest men and women of our nation, its 
veterans.
     Now, before my personal mission as your National 
Commander-in-Chief draws to an end, I wish to say on behalf of Joanne 
and myself, thank you very much for your hard work, support and for 
answering the ``Call to Duty.''

              PRESENTATION OF VFW HALL OF FAME AWARD,
            GOLD MEDAL AND CITATION TO BILLY RAY CYRUS

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  We are honored this evening to present 
our VFW Hall of Fame Award to a gentleman whose first album, ``Some 
Gave All,'' became the biggest selling debut album in history, racking 
up sales of ten million albums and earning five Grammy nominations.
     Today, everybody knows Billy Ray Cyrus.  His song ``Some Gave 
All'' is a tribute to all of America's veterans.
     Despite his apparent sudden rise to fame, Billy Ray Cyrus, one of 
America's best-loved performers, was anything but an overnight 
sensation.  His success came only after a decade of dedication to his 
craft, and his refusal to give up when door after door in Nashville was 
slammed in his face.
     His music tells the story of our everyday lives.  For example, his 
third album ``Storm in the Heartland'' provides a stirring account of 
the suffering a midwestern farmer endures when the Mississippi River 
floods.
     Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in a warm VFW welcome for a 
great entertainer and a great American, Billy Ray Cyrus.
     ``The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Hall of Fame 
Award, Gold Medal and Citation presented to Billy Ray Cyrus 
     ``In special recognition of his outstanding career as a country 
singer and in sincere appreciation for his support of America's 
veterans as evidenced by his moving song `Some Gave  All' and his 
participation in the ceremonies dedicated to Korean War Veterans 
Memorial in Washington, D.C.
     ``In witness whereof, we have hereunto set our hands and the 
official seal of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, 
this 19th day of August, 1996.'' This has been approved by the National 
Council of Administration and signed by Paul A. Spera, 
Commander-in-Chief, and Larry W. Rivers, Adjutant General.
     Billy Ray, on behalf of everyone here congratulations and thank 
you very much.

                 RESPONSE - MR. BILLY RAY CYRUS

     MR. CYRUS:  This is great.  Thank you all very much for allowing 
me to be a part of this evening.  I can't really accept this without a 
special thanks to the guy that changed my life a whole lot, a Vietnam 
Veteran who wrote Achy Breaky Heart, Mr. Don Von Tress, who is out 
there.  Thank you very much, Don.
     I would like to say to my dad over here, thanks for teaching me to 
work hard and believe in my dreams and to have a purpose in life.  When 
I bought a guitar, I felt like my purpose was to make music.  I always 
believed some day my music could touch people's lives.
     To stand here today and being inducted into your VFW Hall of Fame 
for the song ``Some Gave All'' proves that a person can have a dream 
and believe in themselves and everyone has a purpose.  Today with this 
medal hanging around my neck and this plaque in my hand, I feel like 
part of my purpose was I felt like people listened to the words and 
understand it.
     The members of the VFW, you are the true heroes of  America and 
you people represent the song ``Some Gave All'' much, much more than I 
do.  Mr. Westmoreland, I just want you to know it has been an honor for 
me this evening, and all of you many, many great veterans I will take 
to my grave, ``All gave some, but some gave all.''  That is you guys.  
I love all of you men and women.  Thank you very much.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Billy Ray, can we impose upon you to go 
over to the bandstand and sing that song for us.
     (Whereupon, Billy Ray Cyrus sang ``Some Gave All'' at this time.)
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  I nearly forgot to do this.  Along with 
the Hall of Fame Award, Billy Ray, there is an honorarium of $1,500.
     MR. CYRUS:  For what?
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  You can do with it as you wish.
     MR. CYRUS:  Thank you very much.  I appreciate it. Once again, 
what means the most to me is this medallion hanging around my neck and 
the plaque that my dad holds.  Thank you very much for recognizing the 
song ``Some Gave All.''  I love you all, I love America and I am proud 
of every single one of you.  Thank you very much.

               PRESENTATION OF THE DWIGHT DAVID EISENHOWER
                DISTINGUISHED SERVICE MEDAL AND CITATION
                   TO GENERAL WILLIAM C. WESTMORELAND

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Head Table Guests, Distinguished 
Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen:
     We are most honored this evening to present the Veterans of 
Foreign Wars' prestigious Dwight David Eisenhower Award to a member who 
is not only a great soldier and a great American but a Life Member of 
this great veterans organization, General William C. Westmoreland.
     General Westmoreland's long and dedicated service to the cause of 
national security and world peace included distinguished service in 
World War II, to include North Africa, Tunisia, Sicily and the Normandy 
Invasion, service in the Korean War as Commander of the 187th Airborne 
Regimental Combat Team, and in Vietnam when the U.S. involvement grew 
from a few thousand advisors to more than 500,000 American troops.
     From 1968 to 1972, a period of political turmoil and strife within 
the nation, General Westmoreland served as the Army Chief of Staff and 
supervised the Army's disengagement from Vietnam as well as directing 
the transition from the draft to an all-volunteer force.
     General Westmoreland's untiring efforts to improve service life, 
professionalism within the service, job attractiveness and public 
understanding and appreciation for the role of our military in our 
society helped to mold our military force as we know it today.
     The Noted British author Lieutenant General Sir John W. Hackett 
once wrote, ``What a society gets in its armed services is exactly what 
it asks for, no more and no less.  What it asks for tends to be a 
reflection of what it is.''
     A visionary, General Westmoreland developed the foundation for 
today's military force by advocating and articulating the selfless 
deeds and contributions of our military men and women, and America's 
veterans to world peace. General Westmoreland can proudly look at 
today's professional and capable military force and see a reflection of 
his efforts.
     Please join me in giving a very warm VFW reception to a friend and 
the recipient of the 1996 VFW Dwight David Eisenhower Award, General 
William C. Westmoreland.
     ``The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Dwight David 
Eisenhower Distinguished Service Medal and this citation presented to 
General William C. Westmoreland, United States Army, Retired
     ``In grateful recognition of his many years of dedication and 
distinguished service to the cause of national security and world peace 
through World War II, Korea and  Vietnam, a pivotal period in history, 
and in special appreciation for his untiring efforts as an advocate for 
the selfless deeds and contributions by our military men and women.
     ``In Witness Whereof, we have hereunto set our name and official 
seal of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States this 19th day 
of August, 1996.''  This has been approved by the National Council of 
Administration, signed by Paul A. Spera, Commander-in-Chief, and Larry 
W. Rivers, Adjutant General.
     General Westmoreland, thank you very much for all your service and 
congratulations.

                 RESPONSE AND PRINCIPAL ADDRESS - 
                 GENERAL WILLIAM C. WESTMORELAND

     GENERAL WESTMORELAND:  Billy Ray, you are a hard act to follow.  I 
am very grateful and very moved by this award that I have received, to 
be granted by an organization with whom I have been acquainted with for 
many years.
     Fellow veterans and ladies and gentlemen, I am pleased and honored 
to be here in Louisville and to address my fellow veterans and comrades 
in arms.  Indeed, to receive the Eisenhower Award is a unique pleasure.  
It so happens that General and former President Eisenhower was a 
personal friend.
     When he was President, I was a Major General commanding the 101st 
Airborne Division in Ft. Campbell, in the State of Kentucky.  Some of 
you may be aware of the Ft. Campbell Reservation.  Ninety percent of it 
is in Tennessee, but ten percent of it is in Kentucky.
     One of your Senators saw fit to ensure that that was the case.  
Every time I would say, ``Senator Kefauver of Tennessee,'' he would 
say, ``General, I want you to jack up that post office and move it 
across the line.''  One day, many years ago, I received a call from the 
President of the United States who wanted to see me.
     At that time I was commanding Ft. Campbell and the 101st Airborne 
Division.  So I took a plane and flew to Washington.  I went to the 
Pentagon and the Pentagon shuttled me to the White House where I 
reported to the President.  After an informal discussion, the President 
told me that he was sending me to be superintendent at the United 
States Military Academy at West Point, New York.
     Among other things, he said, ``I want you to do something about 
that damn football team.''  The Navy had won the last four or five 
contests.  Needless to say, I did what he suggested.  I fired the 
coach, recruited the Coach of the Year.  The football program was 
turned around.
     But having reminisced in that regard, I now wish to talk about 
more serious matters.  You know, the world today is a far different 
picture than one observed throughout the Twentieth Century.  That 
century is now coming to a close, and we see a world that seems to be 
devoid of major with imperialistic and ruthless dictators backed by a 
fanatical population.
     We have seen the uncertain Europe for about 45 years, and now 
peaceful except for the problem with the Serbs.  We see a demoralized 
Russia and the rest of Asia a nervous center and a Third World 
struggling to play the role.  The Communist fever of Lenin and Stalin 
and now what seems to have paved the way.
     Apparently, there are today no imperialistic strong men on the 
world stage.  Even Khadafy of Libya and King Hussein of Iraq seem 
subdued.  At last, we have to vote for the realization of a real safe 
for democracy.  To understand the importance of what we see today 
requires reflection on the Twentieth Century.
     It has been a century in which a drastic transition has taken 
place, where life on our planet earth has undergone great change.  Now, 
what has brought about that situation that we see today which gives us 
the prospect of a normal, peaceful world?
     It has been the confrontation, political, economic and military, 
by our nation to aggression and the imperialistic conduct of some 
nations.  Decisions were made by our elected political authorities, but 
the telling actions were by agencies of our government, in the main our 
military, our Army, our Navy, our Air Force, our Marine Corps and our 
Coast Guard.
     No one else could have done what transpired.  Who really did the 
job, who did the fighting?  It was our veterans. It was a man who 
answered the call of this country, the man who supported the American 
ideals of human freedom and liberty for all; a man who put his life on 
the line and in many case gave it for defense with the right of 
national determination.
     It was a man who tried to improve the lot of those threatened; a 
man who persisted in dedicating himself to his assigned task, despite 
criticism and the ridicule by some of his peers as they enjoyed the 
safety of his homeland and the rights of our citizens.
     That man can look any man in the eye and say I served my country 
for the cause of freedom in this time honored tradition.  Ladies and 
gentlemen, that man is you. In time America will fully appreciate you 
and what you did, and today here in this state, in this wonderful town, 
we recognize, and I am honored to be a party to that recognition and 
those who played the essential role in bringing about the freedom that 
we enjoy, a freedom that has been contagious throughout civilization on 
our door.
     The words that, in my opinion, describe that man, that man being 
the American fighting man, the words of Roger Hammerstein best describe 
it in his opera entitled ``Stout Hearted Men.''
     ``Give me some men who are stout-hearted men, who will fight for 
the right they adore.
     ``Start me with ten who are stout-hearted men and I will soon give 
you ten thousand more.
     ``O!  Shoulder to shoulder and bolder and bolder, they grow as 
they go to the fore.
     ``Then there is nothing in the world that can block, halt or mar a 
plan when stout-hearted men can stick together man to man.''
     Stout-hearted men, you veterans, you are those men and I salute 
you.
     Let me emphasize that you really did the job.
     Today here in Louisville, you give his all and his support of 
country has stood for through the years, which has been and still is a 
worthy cause, and we recognize it this evening.  So, I am honored to be 
a part of this organization. The VFW, the Veterans of Foreign Wars has 
set the example for the young men and the citizens of our country.  You 
have been a stalwart, you have led the way.  As a citizen and as a 
soldier, I express my thanks and my appreciation.  Thank you.
     (Whereupon, the assembly extended a prolonged standing ovation.)
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you, General Westmoreland.  We 
are fortunate, indeed, that you have taken time to be with us this 
evening.  We are honored to have you with us and your remarks are 
greatly appreciated.
     General Westmoreland has requested that the honorarium that 
accompanies the VFW Dwight D. Eisenhower Distinguished Service Award be 
given to the Westmoreland Scholar Foundation, an educational foundation 
dedicated to fostering reconciliation between the American and 
Vietnamese people.  Thank you very much for that, General.
     I will now return the program to our emcee for the evening, Senior 
Vice Commander-in-Chief Jim Nier.
     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF NIER:  As our Distinguished Guests 
Banquet for the 97th VFW National Convention comes to an end, I would 
like to thank you for attending.  I would also like to thank the ``New 
Odyssey'' musical group for the wonderful entertainment they provided.  
I know we are going to remember you.
     I would like to congratulate our distinguished guests for their 
achievements and for what they have done for us as individuals and as a 
nation. 
     I do have a few announcements to make.  The business session will 
begin tomorrow morning at 8:30.  That is a change from 9:00 o'clock.  
We also will ask that you please and remain and enjoy the musical group 
``New Odyssey'' who will stay and perform for you for about an hour and 
one-half.
     At this time if everyone will please rise, I will ask Reverend 
Kell to give us the Benediction.

              BENEDICTION - NATIONAL CHAPLAIN KELL

     NATIONAL CHAPLAIN KELL:  I think that it is very proper to stop 
and bow our heads in honor and remembrance of those veterans who just 
died in a plane crash while transporting some of President Clinton's 
belongings in a military plane.  Shall we have this as a moment of 
silence.
     Since I will not be around this way anymore, I will never be your 
Chaplain again, I would like to say thank you for being able to serve 
you.  I have written a poem that I would like to quote to you.  It is 
dedicated to you as veterans.  It is called ``Above and Beyond the 
Call.''
     ``Few there be in the scheme of life who will chart a dangerous 
path, stay on that road although the load is fraught with a fearful 
path.
     ``Above and beyond what is called their life second of the goal.  
The die is cast, the decision is past to the esteem cry of their soul.
     ``Our dear vets, such people as you, your reward is freedom for 
all.  The USA is proud to say, you gave, you fought, you died above and 
beyond the call.''
     God bless you.  Let us pray.
     Lord, as we depart from this good time of fellowship, we humbly 
ask that you bless by your mighty power those things we have done here 
this evening that these works will be multiplied many times for the 
benefit of all veterans and their respective families.
     Now, may the grace of our wonderful God be with us and may our 
works here tonight be an odor of a sweet smell, a  sacrifice acceptable 
and well pleasing to you.  In Christ's name I pray.  Amen.
     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF NIER:  Ladies and gentlemen, this 
concludes our program.  Have a good evening. Thank you.
     (Whereupon, the meeting was recessed at 9:10 o'clock p.m.)


                      FIRST BUSINESS SESSION
                 TUESDAY MORNING, AUGUST 20, 1996

     (The First Business Session of the 97th National Convention of the 
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States was called to order in 
the Commonwealth Convention Center, Louisville, Kentucky, at 8:30 
o'clock a.m., by Commander-in-Chief Spera.)
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  I will now call this meeting to order.  
Sergeants-at-Arms, you will prepare the room for the Salute to the 
Colors.
     (National Sergeant-at-Arms George Sarver led the Convention in the 
Salute to the Colors and the Pledge of Allegiance, and National 
Chaplain Reverend Lyle N. Kell, gave the Opening Prayer from the 
Ritual.)
     SERGEANT-AT-ARMS SARVER:  Commander-in-Chief, the Opening 
Ceremonies have been performed.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  At this time we would like a Report of 
the Credentials Committee.

                 REPORT OF CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE

     COMRADE RICHARD TROMBLA (Post 1174 - Kansas): Richard Trombla, 
Department of Kansas, Post 1174, Chairman of the Credentials Committee.  
This is a temporary report at this time.  Delegate strength, 11,695; 
Department Commanders, 36; National Officers, 28; Past 
Commanders-in-Chief, 26; Members-at-Large, 1.  That is a total of 
11,786.
     Commander-in-Chief, this is a temporary report of this Committee.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you. At this time I would like to 
call to the microphone  the Chairman of the Convention Rules Committee, 
Past Commander-in-Chief Clifford G. Olson.

              REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON CONVENTION RULES

     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF CLIFFORD OLSON:  Good morning, Comrades.  
Comrade Commander-in-Chief, I want to thank you for the appointment as 
Chairman of the Committee on Convention Rules.  I also would like to 
take this opportunity to introduce my Co-Chairman, Past 
Commander-in-Chief Jim Kimery, from the great state of New Mexico.
     The Report of the Committee on Convention Rules is to the 97th 
National Convention of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, meeting in Louisville, Kentucky.
     Your Committee on Convention Rules met Monday afternoon, August 
19th, and agreed on the following recommendations which I respectfully 
submit for your consideration:
          1.  With exceptions noted below, Demeter's Manual  will be 
recognized as the parliamentary authority for this Convention.
          2.  When a delegate desires to make a motion or address the 
Convention, he shall rise, address the Chair as ``Comrade 
Commander-in-Chief,'' and after being recognized, shall state his name, 
Post number and Department, before proceeding.
          3.  Debate shall be limited to ten minutes for each speaker.
          4.  A delegate shall be permitted to speak but twice on any 
one subject, or any pending resolution, except by consent of two-thirds 
of the voting strength of the Convention present; provided, that 
chairmen of Convention committees may speak as frequently as necessary 
in connection with reports of their committees; and in the event of 
controversy, the presiding officer shall not entertain any motion which 
will curtail further debate without affording the maker of the motion 
or a member of the particular group presenting the resolution an 
opportunity for final rebuttal.
          5.  All resolutions offered by individual delegates must bear 
the endorsement of the Department Commander or Department Adjutant and 
must be submitted to the office of the Adjutant General for numbering 
and referral to committees no later than 9:00 a.m., August 22, 1996, 
and must be accompanied by a written explanation as to why the 
resolution was not presented to the Department Commander for 
consideration.
          6.  All resolutions offered on the floor at the Convention, 
or otherwise, shall be in writing and shall automatically, and without 
reading, be referred to the Adjutant General for assignment to the 
proper committee.
          7.  Committee chairmen, in reporting on resolutions referred 
to their committee, shall first read those resolutions on which 
favorable action is recommended.  Specific resolutions shall be set 
aside for individual action at the request of any delegate, the others 
being voted upon collectively.  After action has been taken on all such 
resolutions, the chairman shall read the number and title of those 
resolutions which the committee has disapproved.  A resolution 
disapproved by the committee shall be automatically rejected unless a 
motion is made and seconded that it be approved, in which case it shall 
be brought up for debate and Convention action.
          8.  This Convention will not consider any resolution dealing 
with race, creed or religion, or endorse anyone for public office.  
This Convention will not consider any resolution calling for the 
expenditure or appropriation of organization funds.
          9.  This Convention will not consider any resolution 
endorsing legislation sponsored by any other veterans organization, or 
requesting us to join with any other organization in sponsoring 
legislation not expressly proposed by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of 
the United States.
          10.  No person not a duly accredited delegate or member of 
the National Convention shall participate in debate, directly or 
indirectly, in a viva voce vote on any subject before the Convention.
          11.  Unit rule of voting shall not be allowed in this 
Convention.
          12.  On roll calls, the Chairman or acting Chairman of each 
delegation shall poll his delegation on the floor and shall announce 
the vote of his delegation.
          13.  Delegates may arrive at a vote in any manner they see 
fit, but shall announce it in terms of full units and not in terms of a 
fractional part of a vote.
          14.  When the report of the chairman of the delegation is not 
acceptable to all members of the delegation and a poll of the 
Department delegates is demanded by ten delegates of said Department, 
the Adjutant General shall poll the delegates, without discussion of 
question.
          15.  Voting shall be by acclamation, except when a roll call 
be demanded by ten delegates representing Posts in ten separate 
Departments.
          16.  Nominating speeches for the National Officers shall be 
limited to five minutes each.  Not more than two seconding speeches 
shall be made for any candidate and such speeches shall not exceed two 
minutes each.  Nominations and election of National Officers will be 
held according to the National Constitution and By-Laws and Manual of 
Procedure, Article VI, Section 609.
          17.  Delegates and persons recognized by the Chair shall be 
entitled to a respectful hearing and the Chair shall have the authority 
to clear the gallery or the floor or have the Sergeant-at-Arms escort 
from the floor any person or persons who may create any disturbances 
which interfere with the orderly procedure of the Convention.
          18.  Consent of two-thirds of the voting strength of the 
Convention present is necessary for suspension of the rules of this 
Convention.
     The Committee urges adoption of these Convention Rules referred to 
by Clifford J. Olson, Chairman of the Convention Committee.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF JAMES KIMERY:  Comrade Commander-in-Chief, 
James L. Kimery, VFW Post 9254, Albuquerque, New Mexico.  I move 
adoption of the rules as presented to the delegation.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  I have a motion on the floor to adopt 
the rules.  Do I have a second to that motion?
     COMRADE GLEN GARDNER (Post 3359 - Texas):  I second that motion.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion has been made and seconded 
to adopt the Convention Rules.  All those in favor will signify by 
saying ``aye''; all those opposed. The ``ayes'' have it.
     Let me just take one moment to expand just a bit on what Past 
Commander-in-Chief Cliff Olson said.  Today we will have the Republican 
nominee for President. Tomorrow we will have the Democratic 
Vice-President, and on Thursday we will have the Reform Party Candidate 
for President, Ross Perot. 
     Each of those days we will have an individual who is  coming 
before our Convention to speak to us on the issues. I would hope that 
no matter what your political persuasion is, no matter how passionately 
you feel about politics, that if you feel you must have anything 
negative to say that you will say it outside this room, and that anyone 
who comes to this microphone will receive nothing but the utmost 
respect and dignity.  I am sure that as delegates to this Convention 
that is exactly what you will give them all.

            INTRODUCTION - LIEUTENANT GENERAL PRABANDH ITDHIKUL

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  For the past half century, Thailand has 
been one of our most steadfast allies in Southeast Asia.
     Standing side by side with our United Nations forces during the 
Korean War and enduring the hardships of the Vietnam War, the veterans 
of Thailand understand the bond of comradeship that is forged on the 
field of battle.
     The War Veterans Organization of  Thailand, which includes one of 
the most modern health-care systems in the region, has provided, on a 
humanitarian need, medical treatment to VFW members living in Thailand.  
An act of care and kindness which we, as fellow veterans, acknowledge 
and greatly appreciate.
     As Commander-in-Chief, and having visited Thailand, I with to 
thank the War Veterans Organization of Thailand for their hospitality 
and generosity.
     With us today and representing the Director General of the War 
Veterans Organization of Thailand is the Advisor and Chief of the 
Office of the Director General, Lieutenant General Prabandh Itdhikul.
     Please join me in a warm VFW welcome for our special guest from 
Thailand.

              RESPONSE - LIEUTENANT GENERAL PRABANDH ITDHIKUL,  
                   WAR VETERANS ORGANIZATION OF THAILAND

     LIEUTENANT GENERAL ITDHIKUL:  Commander-in-Chief Paul Spera, all 
members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, 
Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen:
     On behalf of the War Veterans Organization of Thailand, may I 
extend greetings to all American veterans and distinguished guests who 
are here for the 97th National Convention.  Please allow me to express 
my deep appreciation to the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, and especially Commander-in-Chief Paul A. Spera for inviting 
General Euamsak Chulacharitta, the Director General, to the National 
Convention, and he kindly assigned me as his representative for the 
second time.
     My party and I have received a very warm welcome, both at the 
Louisville airport and while we are staying here, which has instantly 
made me feel at home.
     Americans and Thais have enjoyed a friendly relationship for many 
decades.  Our economic, political and cultural cooperation have 
steadily expanded and deepened.  In the area of military, our two 
countries also share a common commitment.  That is to work actively for 
peace and security of people as a whole under a rule of liberty, 
justice and democracy.
     From the same standing point, the United States and Thailand have 
always been an ally in time of war.  Since World War I, Thailand joined 
the allied by sending volunteer military into war.  The consequences of 
this made all the allied enjoyed mutual interests in many ways and at 
the same time had strengthened international relationship among 
nations.
     Ladies and gentlemen, in World War II, in 1941, Thailand still 
adhered in the righteousness and justice.  Our policy at that time was 
to protect our sovereign, and we had received full support and 
encouragement from the United States. It was considered that Thailand 
become a member of the United Nations in 1946 by the assistance of the 
United States of America.  This would tie our friendship from then on. 
My fellow veterans, even though we are far in distance, we are close in 
our spirit. 
     Distinguished guests, with the invasion of South Korea in 1950 by 
the Communists North Korea, the United States, as principal 
participant, immediately came to the aid of South Korea and requested 
members of the United Nations to join in the war, including Thailand.
     Americans and Royal Thai military had again fought side by side 
and helped make a heroic performance at the battle of T-Bone, Pork Chop 
Hill and many other operational areas.  My dear friends, this was not 
the last time that we had joined an experience together.
     During the Vietnam War in 1965, the Royal Thai Army volunteer 
forces had fought closely with the United States soldiers in the 
operation area in Bienhoa Binhson Phuc Tho. The II Field Forces of the 
United States and the Royal Thai  Army volunteer forces were most 
admired by the Vietnamese.  My brother in arms, ``We will never walk 
alone.''
     In the Gulf War, although Thailand did not directly enter the war 
but gave assistance by sending a Thai medical team that joined the 
operation, and we also sent officials to work with the United Nations 
Special Commission to observe in Iraq.
     Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests, nowadays there still 
are armed conflicts in some region of the world as in Bosnia-
Herzegovina, terrorism in Northern Ireland and other countries because 
of an inconsistent interest and idea.  The conflict caused damage not 
only to lives, property, morale and spirit of innocent people, but also 
to soldiers who sacrificed their lives for these brutal, destructive 
and lack of humanity. Today we bow to those soldiers and we pay tribute 
to the great deeds of all soldiers who were given the longest, most 
difficult and bloodiest path to peace.
     My fellow veterans, this year Thailand is celebrating the 50th 
anniversary of His Majesty the King's ascension to the throne.  All 
Thai appreciate it that President Bill Clinton has sent a letter of 
congratulations to His Majesty.  President Bill Clinton also mentioned 
the relationship of the United States and Thailand in his letter.
     I quote from the letter.  ``Our bilateral relations go back more 
than 160 years.  During World War II, brave members of the free Thai 
movement joined with Americans to restore freedom to Thailand.  Today, 
Thai and Americans work together to promote peace, freedom and 
prosperity in Southeast Asia bilaterally and through our cooperation in 
multilateral fora.''
     The text I quote has expressed the good relationship and best 
wishes between the United States and Thailand.  I do hope that our 
friendship will further strengthen for many years to come.
     Last, but not least, may I wish each and every one of you good 
health and happiness and a great success at the 97th National 
Convention.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you very much, General Itdhikul.  
     Please be patient with us for a couple of minutes.  I know we are 
running ahead of schedule.  The Rules Committee announced, and we have 
said this time and time again, there is only one cap that is allowed on 
the floor of the National Convention.  You either wear a VFW cap, as I 
am wearing now, or you don't wear a cap.  There are no baseball caps, 
no funny caps, no straw hats, nothing but your official VFW cap, 
please. I will make that announcement now.

              PRESENTATION OF VFW NEWS MEDIA AWARD,
                    GOLD MEDAL AND CITATION

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The VFW News Media Award is presented 
for outstanding contributions to the field of journalism.  This year's 
recipient is Al Santoli, a contributing editor for Parade magazine, 
America's largest circulated publication.
     An Army Infantry veteran who served with the United States 25th 
Infantry Division in Vietnam, Al Santoli is a best-selling author of 
four histories: ``Everything We Had'' which was nominated for the 
Pulitzer Prize, and American book award, and named to the American 
Library Association's ``All-Time Best Books'' list.
     His book, ``To Bear Any Burden,'' was the first history of the war 
and its aftermath to give equal voice to Americans and Southeast 
Asians.  Another of his books, ``New Americans, Immigrants and Refugees 
in the U.S. Today,'' has become a standard text in numerous colleges 
and other learning institutions.
     His fourth book, ``Leading the Way,'' documents how senior 
American military commanders in Operation Desert Storm learned the 
responsibility and accountability of leadership as young servicemen 
during the Vietnam War.
     He has worked as a consultant to the refugee project of the 
Lawyers' Committee for Human Rights.  He has made numerous testimonies 
before Congress regarding democracy in Southeast Asia, refugee 
protection and human rights issues.
     Al Santoli is a Special Assistant to Congressman Robert K. Dornan, 
Chairman of the Military Personnel Subcommittee.  Currently, he is on 
the Board of Advisors of the Center for Security Policy in Washington, 
D.C.  He is also on the Board of Directors of ``No Greater Love,'' a 
non-profit organization that supports families of United States 
military and civilians killed, taken prisoner or missing in service to 
the United States.
     I am pleased to present the VFW News Media Award to a great 
journalist and fellow veteran, Al Santoli.
     ``News Media Award, Gold Medal and Citation, awarded to Al 
Santoli.
     ``In special recognition of his distinguished career as an author 
and journalist whose forthright reporting and analysis of the cause and 
effects of the Vietnam War and its impact on today's military and the 
plight of a Amerasian children have contributed significantly to 
providing the American people with a better understanding of a 
difficult period in American history, and in sincere appreciation of 
his venerable service as a Sergeant in the United States Army's 25th 
Infantry Division in Vietnam where he received a Bronze Star for Valor 
and three Purple Hearts.
     ``In Witness Whereof, we have hereunto set our hands and the seal 
of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, this 20th day of 
August, 1996.''  This has been signed by me as Commander-in-Chief, and 
by Larry W. Rivers, Adjutant General.

                      RESPONSE - MR. AL SANTOLI

     MR. SANTOLI:  Thank you very much.  Commander-in-Chief Spera and 
Fellow Veterans, it is an honor to be here with you as fellow veterans 
and also to be recognized for the work that I have done regarding 
history, military history, which is about us, which is about the 
citizen soldiers, some of whom are in a couple of years to do their 
duties and some have spent 20 years or more in service to their 
country.
     The bond that holds us is an ancient one.  It is a willingness to 
sacrifice for those who would put their lives on the line for their 
country.  In the spirit of what I tried to do with journalism, it is 
not so much reminisce on the past, but to use the lesson of the past to 
prepare for the future.
     A few thoughts I would like to share today are regarding what our 
children and our grandchildren will face and the responsibilities that 
we have in preparing the defense of their liberties and instilling in 
them the value of freedom that most of us in this room know how 
precious it is because of the friends that we have lost in the service 
of upholding that freedom.
     Often it has been in circumstances in parts of the world that 
seemed to have very little in common with the United States.  However, 
I think that one thing we have all learned is that freedom is something 
that you cannot take for granted, and the threat to freedom anywhere in 
the world is a threat to freedom here in our own country.
     Again, that has to be done with judiciousness, both with civilian 
and military leadership.  The experience that we have in the wars that 
we have fought and the military actions we have undergone, I think puts 
us in a position to help prepare the next generation.
     One of the greatest concerns I think that I have seen and one of 
the reasons why I have taken a little bit of time off from writing 
commercially or voluntarily to work in the Congress is because of the 
emergency of China as a major power and a major threat, not only to our 
freedom but to world freedom.
     Right now China is undergoing the greatest military build up in 
the world.  It is not only its nuclear capabilities but its tactical 
capabilities in terms of the airplanes they are getting developed and 
manufactured by the Russians that will give them the ability to project 
air power anywhere within their region, which is the most viable trade 
partner of the United States.
     They are undergoing a great build up of strategic capabilities of 
nuclear missile productions by land, by sea, by submarines.  During 
this coming election year, I think one of the most important issues 
that we will have is missile defense, which is not going to be cheap.
     It is going to take sacrifice in order to build.  It is essential 
given China in its terribly serious strategic missile build up and the 
way of shipping those missiles around the world to Iran and some of the 
other belligerent Middle East countries, its partnership with North 
Korea, that we develop a regional missile defense as well as a national 
missile defense.
     Another area that will be terribly important, is that we have 
learned from mistakes the Japanese made in World War II.  Right now 
China very quietly and very robotically is building up its links of 
transport communication by rail, by road and by sea.
     It is taking over the port of Hong Kong, which is a power 
projection in the South China Seas.  It is building rails that 
connected its Western provinces with Laos into Burma, giving it access 
to the Indian Ocean on the coast of Burma. Right now China basically 
controls Burma, which very few people realize.
     China is also making deals with the Russians and the Central 
European nations to rebuild the silt road which would give the power 
projection ability to land into the area in the Middle East to be able 
to impact into the Persian Gulf sometime in the future if it chooses to 
do so.
     Last year I was very shocked to see that China was publicizing it 
was doing high desert exercises which got very little press coverage 
here, but got big coverage in China.  My feeling is that the Chinese 
are very pragmatic and they would not be doing high desert exercise 
unless sometime in the future they intend to project their forces.
     For the next generation, we have a very serious threat on the 
horizon, which is China, that we cannot take for granted.  We need to 
encourage our politicians to be thinking about, our present day 
military planners to be thinking about, and our economic planners.
     We cannot afford to maintain a $20 billion or $30 billion trade 
deficit with China, which is used to do this massive military build up 
with our money, whether it were the toys that you buy at any K-Mart or 
Penney's.  You can hardly find a toy made in the United States.
     Sweaters, shoes, we have given away our capability to the Chinese 
and they are using the economic resources, and they are benefitting 
from it, in order to do their military build up.  We have to find a way 
of turning that around.  With the resources that we can gain from 
re-establishing a stronger, viable U.S. economic and job base, those 
resources should be put into our own missile defense system as opposed 
to helping China develop their strategic defense, which is happening 
right now. 
     Those are a few thoughts I would like to share with you because of 
the concern of our children and grandchildren. We are right now in 
Congressman Dornan's office, as Chairman of Military Personnel, we are 
working very diligently on trying to get as full accounting as possible 
of prisoners of war and missing in action.
     You are invited to contact us at any time for us to give you 
updates of the work that we are doing and the challenges that we see in 
getting a full accounting, not only from Vietnam and Korea, but also 
from the Russians and Chinese as well.
     I once again thank you from the bottom of my heart for the award 
that I have been presented today.  It means a lot today because it 
comes from fellow Americans.  Thank you.

         PRESENTATION OF COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPECIAL AWARD
                      TO MR. MACK FLEMING

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  It is my great honor this morning to 
present the VFW Commander-in-Chief's Special Award to a man who has 
worked diligently on behalf of all of our nation's veterans.  Mack 
Fleming, who recently retired after serving 26 years on Capitol Hill, 
was instrumental in the enactment of far-reaching veterans' 
legislation.
     During Mack's 21 years as staff counsel and staff director to the 
House Veterans Affairs Committee, he worked in a bipartisan manner to 
improve medical care, compensation, and other benefits to our nation's 
deserving veterans.  He earned the respect of members of Congress and 
staff because of his professionalism, knowledge and ability.
     Our VFW Washington staff has worked closely with Mack Fleming over 
many years.  A man of integrity, capability and character, his ability 
to work with all sides on the issues, to ensure that all views were 
heard, and to build consensus where possible, resulted in the enactment 
of far-reaching veterans' legislation.
     Under his guidance, the measure elevating the VA to cabinet status 
was signed into law.  The new G.I. Bill, which profoundly improved the 
ability of the armed forces to recruit smart, capable young men and 
women was nurtured into reality by Mack Fleming.
     Perhaps his greatest effort resulted in providing an entitlement 
to inpatient health care for service-connected and low-income veterans.
     Please join me in welcoming a fellow veteran -- he served with the 
2nd Armored Division in Europe -- and a man who has devoted his life's 
work to helping veterans, Mack Fleming.
     ``The Commander-in-Chief's Special Award presented to Mack Gerald 
Fleming.
     ``In recognition of his outstanding contributions in meeting the 
needs of America's veterans during nearly three decades of 
extraordinary service in the United States House of Representatives as 
Chief Counsel and/or Staff Director of the Committee on Veterans 
Affairs.
     ``August 20, 1996, Paul A. Spera, Commander-in-Chief.''
     Mack, thank you very much for all that you have done for American 
veterans.

                    RESPONSE - MR. MACK FLEMING

     MR. FLEMING:  Well, I would certainly like to thank 
Commander-in-Chief Paul Spera for this honor.  It is one thing to 
receive awards while you are a Staff Director and Chief Counsel of the 
Committee, it is something else to get the award after you have been 
gone for 15 months.
     I now reside in South Carolina.  I have a boat, a rod and reel, 
and I am doing some of the things I wanted to do for so many years.  
Let me say what a great pleasure it has been working with the Veterans 
of Foreign Wars.  I take great pride in the work we accomplished on 
Capitol Hill, the body of law that our veteran is the envy of the 
world.
     It is because we have worked together for the  Veterans of Foreign 
Wars and the other veterans organizations to put that body of law 
together to maintain the hospital system that we have and the benefits 
and services that were provided to our nation's veterans.
     I remember well when my brother returned from World War II.  He 
was on a troop ship to Japan when they dropped the bomb.  He served the 
patriotic forces of the 92nd.  I worked with Congressman William 
Jennings, one of seven boys who served in his family in World War II.
     I had the privilege of working with Ray Roberts of Texas, and Mr. 
Derrick of South Carolina, and for 15 years Chairman of the Committee, 
Sonny Montgomery of Mississippi.  I must tell you when I was sitting in 
the audience yesterday, when he was talking about leaving the Congress, 
I can't imagine veterans being without the leadership of Sonny 
Montgomery,  because he has been a true leader on veterans' issues for 
many, many years.  You will miss him.
     Although there are other capable people in the Congress, I don't 
think anyone has the commitment to veterans That he did.
     Finally, let me say that I have had the opportunity to serve with 
21 great Commanders-in-Chief of this organization and, most of all, we 
have worked so closely with your staff and officers in your Washington 
office.  I mean people like Howard Vander Clute, Larry Rivers, Clifford 
T. Holt.  I grew up with the best of them.  I want to thank all of them 
for helping me the way they did in understanding and getting 
accomplished the things that I think would benefit veterans.
     Finally, I would say I want to give special recognition to a 
personal friend of mine, Cooper T. Holt of Tennessee.  When I arrived 
in Washington, he took me under his  wing, and I must say, and I will 
confess to all the delegates here, what I learned about veterans 
organizations, most of it came from Cooper T. Holt.  I value his 
friendship and I will always value his friendship as long as I live.
     I thank all of you members of the VFW for the support you have 
given me during my 21 years with the Committee.  I deeply appreciate 
this recognition.  Thank you.

                          INTRODUCTION OF 
            BRIGADIER GENERAL WILMA VAUGHT, USAF (RET.)

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Ladies and gentlemen, in 1986, Congress 
authorized the construction of a memorial in Washington, D.C., that 
would be a lasting tribute to the women who have served or are serving 
in our nation's armed forces. Last year, the ground-breaking for that 
memorial took place at the gates of Arlington National Cemetery.
     When one considers that almost two million women have served the 
U.S. military throughout our history, from the American Revolution 
through Operation Desert Storm, it is most fitting that such a memorial 
receive the backing and support of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
     This morning we are pleased to have with us the distinguished 
President of the Women in Military Service for America Foundation, 
Retired Air Force Brigadier General Wilma  Vaught.
     Prior to her retirement from active duty, General Vaught served as 
the senior woman military representative to the Defense Advisory 
Committee on Women in the Services from 1982 to 1985.
     Please join me in a very warm welcome for a fellow  VFW member and 
President of the Women's Memorial, Brigadier General Wilma Vaught.

              REMARKS - BRIGADIER GENERAL WILMA VAUGHT

     BRIGADIER GENERAL VAUGHT:  Chief Spera, what I just want to say, I 
am one of your newest Life Members, too.  In 1987, we started our 
fund-raising efforts for this memorial to honor all of America's 
servicewomen, the veterans who serve today and the ones who are going 
to serve in our wars.
     That year we raised $10,000 that included a donation of $25 from 
one VFW Post.  You were with us from the very beginning.  We have 
raised the $18 million needed to build the memorial, and about half 
that cost goes for repairing and restoring the existing stone and iron 
structures at our site at the main gate at the Arlington National 
Cemetery.
     These were greatly deteriorated from water and neglect over the 60 
years they have been there.  The exciting news now is that construction 
started this past March.  We are on schedule.  This week the contractor 
will start pouring concrete for the floor of the Education Center.
     Paul, as you entered into office, you promised to help us and you 
did.  We received over $38,000 in 1995 as a result of the letter you 
wrote to the Departments and the Posts.  We are indeed grateful to you 
and every Post that has helped.  We have a total now from the VFW of 
about $87,000, and I hope to see this grow to $125,000 before the 
dedication -- I am passing it over to you -- so the VFW name will go up 
on the wall in one of the exhibit outposts alongside that of the VFW 
Auxiliary, which has already donated over $120,000.  That is your 
challenge.
     Almost a thousand individual Posts have donated and many have 
addressed their servicewomen.  As we look forward to completion and 
dedication of the memorial on October 18, 1997, we are working to raise 
the money needed to equip and furnish the Education Center, build 
exhibit cases, prepare the exhibits, buy the computer equipment for 
displaying the registration information of the thousands of women who 
have been registered, many by VFW Posts and Auxiliaries, and get the 
audio-visual equipment.
     I have been really impressed since we have been here as the number 
of you that have come to our exhibit down on the lower level and said 
you have registered every woman veteran in your Post.  I am counting on 
you to continue donating so we can complete this great memorial in 
every aspect, and open it October 18, 1997, debt free.  Your help can 
make a tremendous difference.
     Paul, we hope you are going to be there with us on October 18, 
1997.  We invite each of you to visit our exhibit downstairs and see 
the pictures of our progress and construction, and see what the 
memorial will look like when it is completed.
     Also I will try to sell you one of our commemorative silver 
dollars, if we can, right here.  Paul Spera has one.  Jim, I am on your 
case.  You will have one.  So, thank you, and I just can't thank you 
enough.  Each of you has an open invitation to be with us on October 
18, 1997, when we dedicate this memorial.  I thank you very much.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  I have no doubt that with the energy 
that you bring to this that this will be a success and you will have 
all this money.  I bought that coin on  Veterans Day two years ago.  
She haunted me in the East room of the White House and wouldn't let me 
out until I paid her thirty-five bucks.  You better watch out.  She 
will do it to you, too, Jim.

            REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON NATIONAL BY-LAWS,
                 MANUAL OF PROCEDURE AND RITUAL

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  At this time I would like to bring to 
the microphone and the podium, the Chairman of the Committee on 
National By-Laws, Manual of Procedure and Ritual, Past 
Commander-in-Chief Howard E. Vander Clute, Jr.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF VANDER CLUTE:  Thank you, 
Commander-in-Chief.  I want to, first, express my thanks to you, 
perhaps duty in a sense, for appointing me as Chairman of this 
Committee.  I want to thank my Vice-Chairman, Past Commander-in-Chief 
Art Fellwock of Indiana.  Most of all, I want to thank the 112 members 
of this Committee that met yesterday and assisted us so ably in 
resolving the issues that were before us.
     We hope this morning that the members and delegates assembled will 
agree with the decisions that they have made.  I want to assure you 
they were thoughtful.  I want to assure you, too, that the debate was 
lively.  I want to assure you that before we all left that room we knew 
exactly what the issue was, and we were satisfied amongst us, the 
majority of us, perhaps almost in unanimity, that we had made a 
decision that was in the best interest of the Veterans of Foreign Wars 
of the United States.
     Let me begin by telling you this, if I may, that the Committee, 
before it began its debate, advised all the members that many of the 
By-Laws that had been submitted had not been submitted in proper form 
and had been returned.  The reasons were obvious, and I agree, as do 
the members, that they should have been returned.
     I want you to know that those that were returned, approximately 95 
percent address a problem that is on all of your minds, probably the 
most sensitive and the most passionate issue internally that will come 
before this Convention, and that is the raise in the Life Membership 
dues which are to occur September 1.
     Let me tell you that this debate centered around, I suspect, that 
single issue.  I will read the titles of the Proposed By-Laws, Manual 
of Procedure and Ritual of changes that the Committee recommends for 
adoption.  Concluding that list, I will move for the adoption of those 
that the Committee recommends.  If you then wish to set aside any of 
those, it will be proper to address the Chair and ask that they be set 
aside.

                The following will be recommended for adoption:
                B-4, Suspension and Revocation of Charter. 
                B-7,  Vacancies and Removal of Elected Officers.
                B-8, also Vacancies and Removal of Elected Officers.
                B-9, Delegates, County Council, District Department
                     and National Conventions.
                B-10, Elected and Appointed Officers; Chairmen and
                     Committees.
                B-11 also concerns Officers, Elected and Appointed.
                B-12 also concerns Officers, Powers and Duties.
                B-13, again Officers Powers and Duties.
                B-14, Inspection.
                B-15, Eligibility.  This one is the one that applies
                     to the Ladies Auxiliary.
                B-23, Life Members.
                B-24, District dues.

     Then in the Manual of Procedure, M-1, Delegates - County Council, 
District, Department and National Conventions.
                M-2, Inspection.
                M-3, Formation, Control, and Disbandment of 
                     Auxiliaries.
     Under the section that relates to our Ritual, the Committee 
approved all four Resolutions, R-1, R-2, R-3 and R-4.
     Comrade Commander-in-Chief, I recommend adoption as recommended by 
the Committee.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  I have motion to adopt.  Microphone No. 
1.  
     COMRADE GLEN GARDNER (Post 3359 - Texas):  Comrade 
Commander-in-Chief, Glen Gardner, a delegate from Post 3359, Garland, 
Texas.  I ask that B-23 be set aside.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  B-23 is set aside. Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE WAYNE BUCK (Post 1888 - Michigan): Comrade 
Commander-in-Chief, I ask that B-15 be set aside.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  B-15 will be set aside. Microphone No. 
1.
     COMRADE DEAN WHITE (Post 27 - Europe):  Comrade 
Commander-in-Chief, Dean White, Post 27, Department of Europe, I second 
the motion.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  What motion are you seconding?
     COMRADE DEAN WHITE (Post 27 - Europe):  The motion from the Chair 
for the adoption.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Hold on just a second.  We have got a 
second for the motion to accept.  Are there any others that anyone 
wants to set aside?  I have B-15 and B-23 as the only two that have 
been asked to be set aside.  The motion has been made and seconded to 
adopt the recommendations of the Committee.
     On the question, all those in favor will signify by saying 
``aye''; all those opposed ``nay''.  The ``ayes'' have it. The By-Law 
changes are adopted except B-15 and B-23.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF VANDER CLUTE: Thank you, 
Commander-in-Chief, and thank you, comrades.  We have B-15 before us.  
It has been set aside.  You already have a motion to adopt, so I 
suspect that we can just continue with the debate for consideration.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  They are set aside.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF VANDER CLUTE:  We have a motion to approve 
and it has been seconded.  You have asked it be set aside and now is 
the time to debate it.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE WAYNE BUCK (Post 1888 - Michigan): Comrade 
Commander-in-Chief, Wayne Buck, National COA from the State of 
Michigan.  I would like to have the --
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Excuse me.  Just so everybody 
understands, when you come to the microphone you need  to stand plainly 
and clearly your name and your Post number for the record, and your 
Department.
     COMRADE WAYNE BUCK (Post 1888 - Michigan):  Comrade 
Commander-in-Chief, I am Wayne Buck, Post 1888, from the State of 
Michigan.  I would like to have that last sentence that was  deleted in 
B-15 read to the delegation.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF VANDER CLUTE:  The last sentence that is 
to be deleted reads as follows: ``Women eligible for membership in the 
Ladies Auxiliary must be citizens of the United States and not less 
than 16 years of age.''
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE WAYNE BUCK (Post 1888 - Michigan):  Comrade 
Commander-in-Chief, I stand before you as a delegate to this Convention 
and as a delegate from Michigan asking you to reject this Amendment 
B-15 and disregard that, such that you are taking in place of what is 
there already.  I would like to say that you leave in that you have to 
be a U.S. citizen to belong to the Auxiliary.  Thank you.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF VANDER CLUTE:  Let me tell  you the 
thought process that went into this, if I may, so there is no 
misunderstanding.  You might not agree precisely on what you have just 
said.  The Ladies Auxiliary is not our organization.
     It belongs, as I think we will all admit, to the Ladies Auxiliary.  
This is to facilitate the fact that the Ladies Auxiliary may debate 
this issue themselves.  As long as citizenship is a requirement in this 
By-Law, they cannot debate it on their floor.
     Let them decide whether they want to accept into  their membership 
the hard working wives of our members overseas who would like to be 
members of the Auxiliary, and let them then decide whether this is in 
their best interest.  That was the thought process of the members of 
the Committee.
     (Whereupon, Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief Nier assumed the 
Chair.)
     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF NIER:  The Chair recognizes 
Microphone No. 2.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF PAUL A. SPERA (Post 144 - Massachusetts):  I am 
Paul Spera, a delegate from Post 144 in Massachusetts.  I come to the 
microphone to say to you that this resolution was entered at the 
request of those individuals in the Department of Europe, the Pacific 
Areas, and Central America.
     For a number of years they have been trying to get this issue 
resolved.  They have wives who are non-citizens, and I have visited 
each of those Departments and I have seen firsthand the type of work 
that these wives do.  They are not able to be members of the Ladies 
Auxiliary.
     Basically, all they are asking for this year is a fair chance.  
The Ladies Auxiliary will be debating the same kind of resolution on 
their floor.  Every time this issue has come up, someone comes to the 
microphone on our floor and states that we should not be involved in 
this, that this is an issue that the ladies should take care of.
     Then someone comes to the floor at the ladies meeting and says we 
should not be considering this because this is an issue that the men 
have to take care of, because this is in their By-Laws.  Now, the 
ladies will decide the issues for themselves at this Convention.
     All I am asking us to do is to step out of their way and let them 
make the decision.  That is all that this resolution does.  It gives 
them the opportunity.  The wives I have spoken to, each of these 
foreign departments have said to me if the ladies decide that they do 
not wish to change that citizenship requirement, they can live with 
that.
     They will still work beside their husbands for the benefit of the 
VFW.  All they are asking for is a fair chance. If we step out of the 
way with this resolution, the ladies can decide for themselves.  I 
think that is what they should do. Thank you.
     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF NIER:  The Chair recognizes 
Microphone No. 3.
     COMRADE GEORGE RINKOWSKI (Post 5530 - Ohio):  I am Father 
Rinkowski, Post 5530, Toledo, Ohio.  I am interested in this for 
another reason than the one just proposed.  You see, in the history of 
the world, the degradation of women has always been to put them down 
and this does this.
     I go back to year 3500 B.C.  That is when it first started.  The 
wars were fought in order to capture women and children.  They 
continued all through until Hitler did the same thing and that was 
pointed out the reason for the war. Everything was designed in regard 
to putting women down.
     In the history of the world, there is no country that ever rated 
its women in accordance with their dignity as women until we, the 
United States of America, did that.  They were given the right to vote 
a few years ago.  It continued from there until the present time.
     Now, their dignity is such that they have special dignity with 
value and purpose, value that its present worth and purpose and future 
worth, and this degrades them to a position where they are second rated 
citizens and they have to say they would prefer to have men in the 
ladies organization and suddenly the idea of nobility, they are 
something as women and they are not worth something that women related 
to men but they are women related to themselves.
     They are a special person and they are not to be compared to men 
in any way, and men are not to be rated with them as the accepted 
policy in voting equality in work and equality in return, but not 
equality related to the person. This is proposed and we don't oppose 
it.
     We are agreeing with them that they are reduced to a secondary 
position.  We should continue to rate them for what they are and a 
position related to their quality and superior in relation to their 
purpose.  We do not state the purpose of men and women the same, and 
that is a violation and denial of human nature.
     We should say that we as the organization, members of the Veterans 
of Foreign Wars, reject it and point that out to them.  Now, we changed 
the word ``ladies'' to say VFW and very fine women, you would be closer 
to the truth if you did this now.  But when you say that men can be in 
the ladies organization by changing that one little thing, putting VFW 
there, that is contrary to the nature of women.
     We are attacking women's femininity and we are denying this 
between mothers and sisters and husbands.  We are denying all of that, 
but we agree with this.  I think that we as a men's organization should 
recognize that they are special, that they get special treatment, that 
they are women.
     They are not men.  They are for real and we should be the ones who 
propose that more than anybody else in the whole world.  We are the 
only country that recognizes them for their dignity as women, and this 
is a denial of that dignity.  We should absolutely say something about 
it and not just pass it off and say let them do it themselves.
     This may have been proposed by somebody else.  I don't think that 
came out of their own mind.  I say we should definitely put it on 
record that we repudiate this concept. Women are women and they are 
special, made special in the eyes of God, are these women are doing --
     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF NIER:  Comrade, I will ask you to 
get back on the subject.  There are others that need to speak
     The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 2.
     COMRADE JOHN LEWIS (Post 15006 - Colorado):  The last year and the 
year before, since we have opened up our membership to the Korean War 
veterans or the Korean veterans that have served over there, I have 
recruited a good many people, especially around  Ft. Carson, Colorado.
     They circulate these people back and forth, and a lot of these 
people have brought Korean wives back.  If we are going to open up our 
organization to people and we expect them to belong to the VFW, I don't 
think we should stand in the road having their wives to belong to the 
VFW Auxiliary.
     I move the question.
     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF NIER:  That does require a second.  
Do I hear a second?
     Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE GLEN GARDNER (Post 3359 - Texas):  I second the motion.
     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF NIER:  It is not debatable.  The 
motion before us is to close debate.  I will call for the question.  
Those in favor will signify by saying ``aye''; those opposed by the 
same sign.  The ``ayes'' have it. Now, we must vote on the motion to 
adopt B-15.  Those in favor of adopting B-15 will signify by saying 
``aye''; those opposed by the same sign.  The ``ayes'' have it.
     (Whereupon, Commander-in-Chief Spera assumed the Chair at this 
time.)
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The next one that was set aside was 
B-23.
     The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE GLEN GARDNER (Post 3359 - Texas):  Comrade  
Commander-in-Chief, I stand in opposition to B-23.  B-23 has to do with 
the Life Memberships in this organization.  A decision was made by the 
Trustees of this Life Membership Fund to do something that would 
soundly affect the future of this organization.
     It raises the fees by not following the guidelines or the 
Departments of this organization.  There is also a problem with B-23 in 
the fact the way it is written we are not mandated to have any kind of 
pay-out.  It says $3.50, but it goes below that and they could increase 
that or decrease that as they see necessary.
     The Life Membership pay-out to the Departments and Posts could go 
as low as nothing if this Committee felt that was what could happen 
with the actuaries.  I would ask that we defeat B-23, Comrade 
Commander-in-Chief.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 2.
     COMRADE EUGENE MANFREY (Post 6827 - Florida):  Comrade 
Commander-in-Chief, Eugene Manfrey, Post 6827, St. Petersburg, Florida, 
and a member of the National Council of  Administration.  I also rise 
for the purpose of defeating this particular resolution, based on the 
fact that the resolution was proposed by the Life Membership Committee.
     As Chairman of the Budget and Finance Committee for the State of 
Florida, if we pass this resolution we will continue to lose money on 
our Life Memberships.  We have over 43,000 members in the State of 
Florida.  We get $6.25 for a new and reinstated member, and we get $5 
for a Life Member.
     By defeating this motion would help us to make up that deficit of 
$73,000 that we lose.  In the State of Florida, we have had to adjust 
our budget by $58,000 because of the loss of revenue.  Many of the 
Posts, and I understand this, that the  Posts say they can't rely on 
this money from their membership.
     I disagree with them.  I think that most of the Departments, most 
of the Posts do recognize this.  Now, it raises, as far as the proposal 
by the Committee, everybody is talking about the 81-year-old.  I 
understand what they are talking about.
     By the same token, if this guy is 81 years old, he had 60 years to 
become a Life Member of this organization if he belonged that long.  
The members of those particular Posts that had those 81-year-olds, I 
don't see them clamoring to become Life Members, I think that those 
Posts should buy Life Memberships for their 81-year-olds.  I speak in 
opposition.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 3.
     COMRADE HOWARD VANDER CLUTE (Post 6467 - New Jersey):  Comrade 
Commander-in-Chief, Howard Vander Clute, Post 6467, Department of New 
Jersey, and Chairman of the Committee on By- Laws, Manual of Procedure 
and Ritual.  I have chosen to speak from here because I think it is 
more appropriate.
     I am in favor of B-23 being adopted because I recognize the 
passion of the issue.  Everyone appears to be opposed to the new fees 
that are now being levied on September 1st, or planned to be levied on 
September 1, 1996.  Although there is not a perfect By-Law change 
proposed, amongst all of those that we have accepted, this By-Law 
change is the only one of all that had been proposed that will return 
the fee to that we now pay.
     That seems to be what the members want, or at least indicated to 
me yesterday at the meeting.  Now, I recognize there are imperfections 
and I recognize the fact that the Quartermaster General and the members 
of the Board of Trustees of the Life Membership Fund have reduced that 
pay out.
     Let me say that is not likely to happen with the remarks of our 
Quartermaster General yesterday.  He indicated to us that he could pay 
out $5 this coming year in 1996-'97 for all the Life Members that we 
have.  So what this will do is return it to the old price after 
September 1st when this becomes effective.
     Number two, the Quartermaster General has indicated he will pay 
the $5.
     Number three, if I may rebut my good friend's argument, no Post in 
this world needs the additional two dollars to meet their bills.  If 
they can't pay their bills with the $5 they receive back from the Life 
Members now, they have mortgages, light bills, electric bills, all the 
things that the Association themselves with running a Post, the two 
dollars more per Life Member means nothing.
     But two dollars more on 500,000 or one million means a great deal 
to the National Organization.  They are the biggest benefactor when 
this occurs.  Let's start thinking about the members who have to sell 
these Life Memberships. Let's start thinking about the members who want 
those Life Memberships in their Posts, not only for the prestige for 
their members, but the prestige for their Posts, and they are satisfied 
with the $5 pay-out.
     Having said all of that, let me say this.  I recognize as much as 
any National Officer or any member that sits in this delegation, that 
we have a fiduciary responsibility to appropriately fund the Trust 
Fund.  We certainly don't want to do anything to endanger that 
responsibility.
     I also know that we must maintain the integrity of that fund.  I 
also know, because the Quartermaster General reported it and because it 
is borne out by the report of the auditors that the fund is short.  
But, for heaven's sake, my comrades, let's address that problem, but 
not with the 60 and 70-percent increase in Life Membership fees.
     Let's send a message to the National Headquarters that we want 
equal increase and that we maintain the integrity of the fund.  That is 
all we are asking for.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE DON LINSCOTT (Post 1603 - Maine):  I again rise to say I 
am in favor of this particular resolution, although it doesn't have all 
the things in it that I would like to see.  Basically, what Past 
Commander-in-Chief Vander Clute said, many of his interests are also my 
same interests.
     Statisticians are a wonderful thing if you can afford them.  The 
statisticians tell us that most of us are going to live to be 88.8.  
You know, as a Maine farm boy all I know is that I have got 406 
members.  I lost 16 members last year, and only one member was over 80.
     I guess that sort of tells the statistician that maybe we have to 
look at a new and different direction.  That same report I got also 
told me that this same statistician that tells me in 1999 they are 
going to lose 97,000 more members.  Guys, I don't know about you, but 
the Department of Maine has not seen a membership loss for the last 
three or four years.
     My membership is not going to lose members by 1999.  We have been 
told that everything has to do with this Convention for we, the 
members.  Yet in the last Quartermaster's Conference, I wanted new 
definitions.  It seems that when the National Organization wants to 
share information with us, it means this is the way it is going to be.
     I have sat here two days in Convention and went to my conference 
and saw one side of the story.  I don't know about you.  I saw one side 
of the Life Membership story.  I heard one side of doing away with the 
citizenship for the Ladies Auxiliary.
     I am for this amendment.  If we pass this amendment, give us, the 
members out here, ideas and let us come up with the fancy things.  I 
hope, gentlemen, that you will return this to the membership via a 
personal message and give it to work together with the Committee.
     Another thing, if in 1999 we are going to, as the report was given 
to me, have more Life Members than regular members, then why shouldn't 
we have the right to vote on what the fees are going to be for the 
regular members?  Thank you.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 2.
     COMRADE JOHN MOON (Post 2873 - Ohio):  Comrade Commander-in-Chief, 
John Moon, Post 2873, Grover Hill, Ohio.  I have heard in the last year 
some of the comments that were made for or against what was going to be 
brought up today.  I have heard comments about the actuaries and their 
statistics, and whatever it may be.
     Then I heard yesterday again that these actuaries are many times 
employed by life insurance companies, and that is true.  These 
actuaries have never left or allowed the Life Membership Company to go 
under.  That should be an appraisal and thanksgiving to these 
actuaries.
     But then if we look at the Quartermaster General and his staff, 
who are obligated to bring forward their outlines and their goals of 
what is necessary, their fiduciary responsibility to see to it that the 
programs continue to go in the black and not the red, or to be free 
speech every year.
     Then again, you hear that we have over $115 million in that fund.  
That is true.  There is no problem with the $115 million in that fund 
to continue to pay.  However, over the last four years, at the going 
rate, the payments are made to the respective Departments and to the 
Posts and to the National Organization, we are doing it at a decreasing 
rate and losing money.
     It was not an easy decision to make, but when 500 accept it on the 
floor, including the Commander-in-Chief, the Senior Vice 
Commander-in-Chief, the Adjutant General and the Quartermaster General 
made that decision, it was not just a rubber stamp.  It was from 
earnest thoughts put forth to protect the integrity and the length and 
breadth of this VFW, not for today or next week, but for 15, 20, 25 
years to come.
     If we allow ourselves to continue at the same rate structure, we 
will deplete the funds.  If we allow ourselves to  continue at this 
mode, we are definitely going downhill in terms of the Life Membership.  
Again, we do not need an increase, we would have to be paying less.
     It is not the National is going to hurt as everyone seems to 
think, or necessarily the Posts that are going to hurt, because as you 
just heard two dollars is not going to pay a light bill.  But 
collectively two dollars times many will and collectively each and 
every Department, whatever the pay-out is given to them, helps set 
forth their programs for what they have to do to continue the success 
each and every year to promote the Veterans of Foreign Wars.  Thank 
you.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 3.
     COMRADE WILLIAM KIRSOP (Post 4256 - Florida):  Thank you, 
Commander-in-Chief.  I am Bill Kirsop, VFW Post 4256, Vero Beach, 
Florida.  I come before this microphone to ask the comrades to reject 
B-23.  Also I have a responsibility as Department Adjutant 
Quartermaster for the Department of Florida.
     I must have gone a little bit deaf.  Yesterday I sat in the 
meeting of the Bylaw Committee.  I heard what went on there, and I 
heard something else out of the Quartermaster General.  I heard the 
Quartermaster General, and anyone can correct me if I am wrong to say 
to us, and I received a letter this year that we would receive five 
dollars.
     I heard him also say that it would be necessary to reduce it next 
year to four dollars.  Our By-Law says right now he can reduce it as 
low as $3.50.  With a reduction to four dollars, my Department would 
lose almost $58,000 next year.  At the present rate of five dollars, 
our Department could only raise funds through dues and through 
fund-raisers.
     We don't have canteens like some of the Posts do.  We have to pay 
the National Organization, we have to pay the Veterans Service Program, 
which is so close to my heart.  The Department of Florida, in 1988, 
when we opened up the Department Service Program at our own expense, no 
expense to the state, no expense to no one, we opened up with a dollar 
increase in our annual dues, which came to about $40,000.
     I can't go back and ask the annual members to continue to pay for 
the increase at the Department's expense. When you talk about an 
increase of what it is, me as a veteran and a veteran since 1969 in the 
VFW, I have got more than my money back for the $200 dues I have paid.
     I would be honored, and I know this organization is still worth 
$300 to be a member.  I ask you to reject B-23 and ask our 
Quartermaster General to look into the 21st Century and not think of 
immediately.  Thank you.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE DON HARTENBERGER (Post 3553 - Illinois): Comrade 
Commander-in-Chief, I am Don Hartenberger, Post 3553, Chester, 
Illinois, and State Commander of Illinois.  I am in favor of adopting 
this resolution for the simple reason there are many things that come 
before us at our Senior's Conference in Kansas City this spring.
     I went to our Quartermaster and his office and I said, ``Is this 
fund in any danger of going broke?  Is it something that we need to 
address right now?''  I was assured at that meeting there or at his 
office that they could pay $5 fees from now on to kingdom come, and 
that this money would never go broke.
     Also I have been interested in that we have approximately 900,000 
Life Members.  I would say half of those members, about 450,000, are 
World War II veterans.  In 10 to 15 years there will not be a lot of 
World War II veterans left. What will happen to that principal amount 
then?  Are we not going to still have that so we can draw interest off 
that?
     I don't think we will sell that many more Life Members in the next 
10 to 15 years.  Looking at the graphs that I have been shown, it shows 
a membership increase or a fee increase that our membership goes way 
down.  We don't see many Life Memberships, and it takes six to eight 
years to build it back to where it was.
     Also had I been in favor of this resolution, I would be against it 
now from all the literature I got.  It seems to me like the National is 
trying to sell us something.  I get a letter almost on a daily basis on 
this program.  I have a stack of mail this thick.  When somebody tries 
that hard to sell something to me, I look deeply into it because 
something is wrong.  Thank you very much.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you. 
     The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 2.
     COMRADE RON RUSKO (Post 9460 - Connecticut):  Comrade Commander-
in-Chief, Ron Rusko from Post 9460, Stratford, Connecticut, and a 
member of the Bylaws Committee.  Comrade Commander-in-Chief, and fellow 
delegates, this By-Law amendment was debated for quite a long time 
yesterday with over 120 members of the Committee.
     We concur.  The entire Committee concurs with the National 
Organization that, in fact, the Life Membership fee must be raised.  We 
concurred that the fees must be raised.  We concur with James Nier, 
Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief, the Quartermaster General and everyone 
else, the members of the Life Membership Committee, that they must be 
raised.
     What we don't concur with is that they be raised so darn high in 
one year.  That is what we don't concur with.  We believe, and I think 
this was a consensus of the Committee, and I am not trying to speak for 
the entire Committee that was sitting in that room, we believe if we 
were to take and have the Life Membership Committee come up with a fair 
and equitable range for the Life Membership fee and come back to these 
delegates next  year and present it to us, that there would be no 
problem raising the Life Membership fee.
     The Quartermaster General stated yesterday in the meeting that 
they had planned to pay the $5 and were prepared to pay $5 per member 
this coming year, and that the thought was not any financial hardship 
for the next year.  I suggest to you and I ask you to adopt B-23.
     Give the Committee a year.  Give us, the delegates of this 
organization, a year to decide on another fair and equitable raise for 
the Life Membership fee.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 3.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF JOHN WASYLIK:  Commander-in-Chief, John 
Wasylik, Post 2529, Sandusky, Ohio, Post Quartermaster and a Past 
Commander-in-Chief.  Also I am one of the older members on this floor.  
I have heard this argument each time we have raised the Life Membership 
dues that we are going to wreck the organization and I can't afford it, 
and all of that.
     I remind you what I have said, I am a Post Quartermaster.  I know 
how our Posts need income.  Of course, that is true up and down the 
organization.  The entire organization needs more income.  Comrades, I 
started 36 years ago as an optometrist.  I would examine your eyes and 
give you a gold-filled frame and bifocal lenses for $42.  The exam is 
$50 now.  I have to charge more to keep that office open.
     How do you expect to keep your Posts open?  How do you expect to 
keep your District moving?  How do you expect the National Organization 
to keep operating on less money or the same amount of money as ten 
years ago?  The fault lies in the fact that we didn't raise Life 
Membership fees ten years ago when we should have.
     We are already too late.  We are hurting ourselves. As a result, 
we have all these outside fund-raising programs that are hurting our 
membership far more than any Life Membership raise will do.  I have 
heard more complaints from my membership about that than I do the fees 
we are charging for the membership.  I stand in opposition to this By-
Law amendment and I  urge that we defeat it.  Thank you.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you very much.  Just an 
explanation before I go on to the next microphone.  I just had to bring 
a chair up here.  For those of you who know since I have traveled with, 
I have a back that has a tendency to pop out and it feels like it is 
about ready to go.  If I am sitting while it is going on, please excuse 
me.  I don't mean any disrespect 
     Microphone No. 1, please.
     COMRADE RUSSELL RIEKE (Post 5694 - Illinois): Comrade Commander-
in-Chief, I am a National Council member from District B that 
represents the State of Illinois.  Comrade Commander-in-Chief, I have 
had many phone calls and received many letters and talked with many 
National officials on this dues increase.
     I stand here this morning representing the State of Illinois, 
hopefully, that we will approve B-23.  I have been Post Commander for 
the second time out of my home Post.  I received All State Post 
Commander status due to the hard work  of my Committee that went out 
and sold Life Memberships at the current rate.  We had a tough time.
     I also have spoken to the officials about is this fund in any kind 
of danger?  I was assured this fund is not in any kind of danger.  We 
hired people to invest our money. At this time we have lived and paid 
the Life Membership fee at the current rate off of our interest.
     That Life Membership Fund will continue to grow because our 
investors will see to it that our money is put in the right respective 
interest and get the highest interest for it.  I stand before you and 
all the delegates from the State of Illinois hoping that we will 
approve B-23 for the Life Membership and keep us at the same status.  
Thank you, Commander-in-Chief.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you.  Comrades, right now I have 
a difficulty up here that we need to deal with.  In about 15 minutes, 
we need to clear this stage and prepare for the arrival of the Secret 
Service, and the candidate, and all the hoopla that goes with that.
     The problem that we have is we have an award to present to General 
Shelton.  If we don't present it now, he needs to leave by 11:00 
o'clock and we will not have the opportunity to make that presentation.
     So what I will do, Comrade Nier, I will give you the option of 
either speaking now and being the last speaker for right now, or the 
option of waiting until we begin to debate again after the candidate 
leaves.  Whichever you prefer, I will give to you.
     The other comrades, I know you are in line and you have been 
waiting in line.  If you can be patient with us and when this is over, 
line up back the way you are now, I will appreciate that.  We are going 
to have to cut off debate.  I have time for one more speaker.  It is 
your call, Jim.  You can do it now or later.
     Microphone No. 2, please.
     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF NIER:  Comrade Commander-in-Chief, 
I understand the situation.  I would only ask that when we return to 
this issue I be allowed to speak first.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  You will be first when we return.  I 
thank you very much.  Thank you for your understanding, comrades.

                PRESENTATION OF VFW ARMED FORCES AWARD, 
         GOLD MEDAL AND CITATION TO GENERAL H. HUGH SHELTON

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Ladies and gentlemen, I am pleased to 
introduce to you Army General Hugh Shelton.  General Shelton currently 
is the Commander of the United States Special Operations Command, and 
is the recipient of the VFW Armed Forces Award for his role as the 
Commander of Operation ``Uphold Democracy'' in Haiti.
     General Shelton and the forces that participated in the operation 
are to be commended.  Operation ``Uphold Democracy'' was an 
organizational and leadership achievement of immense proportion.  
Prepared for combat operations, the military forces while underway were 
able to successfully change planes in mid air for an anticipated 
opposed landing to an unopposed peaceful landing of thousands of 
military forces. 
     They successfully completed the initial phase of the operation in 
the allotted time.
     The mission complete, General Shelton and his force successfully 
achieved their four primary missions of protecting United States 
citizens, national interests and designated Haitians; restoring civil 
order, conducting civil military operations to stabilize the internal 
situation in Haiti and, fourth, assisting in the transition of a 
legitimate government to Haiti.
     General Shelton and those forces under his command are to be 
commended for their actions which have reflected favorably upon the 
United States and its Armed Forces.  Their actions contributed to the 
security and stability of a region important to the interests of the 
United States.
     Please give General Shelton a very warm VFW welcome.
     ``VFW Armed Forces Award, Gold Medal and this Citation, presented 
to General H. Hugh Shelton, Commander of Operation Uphold Democracy and 
participating U.S. military forces. 
     ``In special recognition of the immense organizational and 
leadership achievement whereby our military forces were able to 
successfully accomplish their four primary missions of protecting U.S. 
citizens, national interest and designated Haitians; restoring civil 
order; conducting civil-military operations to stabilize the internal 
situation in Haiti, and assisting in the transition of a legitimate 
government to Haiti.
     ``The actions of General Shelton and those forces under his 
command reflect favorably upon the United States and its armed forces 
and contributed to the security and stability  of a region important to 
the interests of the United States.
     ``In Witness Whereof, we have hereunto set our hands and the 
official seal of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, 
this 20th day of August, 1996.  Approved by the National Council of 
Administration.''  It has been signed by Paul A. Spera, Commander-in-
Chief, and Larry W. Rivers, Adjutant General.  Congratulations, General 
Shelton.

                 RESPONSE - GENERAL H. HUGH SHELTON

     GENERAL SHELTON: Commander-in-Chief Spera, Fellow Veterans of 
Foreign Wars and Family Members:   
     I am truly humbled and honored to be standing here in front of you 
today and to be the recipient of this prestigious  Armed Forces Award.  
To be singled out as a representative of our great Armed Forces today 
makes me proud both professionally as well as personally.
     I believe in a larger sense that you really don't honor me as an 
individual but them, the boys in the Persian Gulf, the Marine standing 
at order in Korea, the clerk-typist in the recruiting station in Los 
Angeles, or the Army paratrooper waiting for the general jump light to 
come on somewhere in the world today.
     Gentlemen, I have had some successes in my career, but I can tell 
you I have stood on the shoulders of giants to arrive here today.  Men 
like the sergeants who have told the young lieutenant how to survive 
and how to make a difference in  Vietnam years ago.
     Now, my current assignment, I am harkened every day at the great 
quality of young men and women in the Army, the  Air Force and the Navy 
that make up the United States Special Operations Command and the rest 
of the military.  You know today it is very popular to be labeled as 
one of the best and brightest.
     I would submit to you that our Armed Forces today, the personnel 
that make them up, because of their professional  competence, their 
courage and their commitment to duty in the service to their nation, 
that they, like you and those who have worn the uniform before, deserve 
to be included in the best and brightest.
     The best and brightest, because they understand that some things 
are worth fighting for.  They understand that some things are more 
important than themselves and the moment.  They know in their very 
souls as you know that freedom isn't free. Today, as General 
Westmoreland said last night, we live in an uncertain peace.
     Just yesterday I had the honor to stop in Ft. Benning, Georgia, en 
route to receive a citation about the Falcon Ranger.  As I leave here 
today, I will travel to Ft. Campbell, Kentucky, to award the same award 
of the valor unit citation to a former Special Operations Aviation 
Unit, in a war that was won in Mogadishu, Somalia, and a few years ago 
in some of the intense fighting that we have seen since Vietnam, an 
action that guaranteed posthumously medals of honor and call for 
actions above and beyond the call of duty.
     If you think that was entirely an Army action, I will tell you 
that there also is an Air Force Cross and Silver Stars awarded to both 
sailors and airmen as a result of that action. I think that you can see 
why I am honored to be standing here today humbled by the award that 
you have presented.
     All of you men and women have walked the dangerous path.  Your 
willingness to do what has to be done at the risk of your lives 
provided a tremendous legacy for us, both a sacrifice and honor.  As 
President Kennedy said, ``A nation reveals itself by the men that it 
remembers, the men that it honors.''  The Veterans of Foreign Wars is 
the epitome, I think, of that statement.
     So to you, let me say in concluding, I thank you very much for the 
award which I humbly accept on behalf of our Armed Forces, and I can 
promise you today that as you turn in tonight or your children turn in 
tonight that you can rest assured that somewhere Americans are standing 
watch over the freedoms that you have helped to sustain.  God bless you 
and God bless the  VFW, and God bless America.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Comrades, at this time I have just 
found out that General Shelton, a Vietnam veteran and a veteran of 
Desert Storm is not presently a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.  
Wait a minute.  If you boo him, boo us because we never asked him.
     So at this time, General Shelton, on behalf of the two million 
plus members of the VFW, with recognition of all of your service, I 
would like to offer to make you a Life Member of the Veterans of 
Foreign Wars of the United States.
     GENERAL SHELTON:  Thank you very much.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  That is how you get new members.  You 
ask them if they belong.
     We are just waiting for word for us to be called to the back room, 
and we were told that it would be any minute now.  Please be patient 
with us.

            INTRODUCTION OF THE HONORABLE JACK KEMP

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  We are honored to have with us today as 
a special guest, the Honorable Jack Kemp.  Mr. Kemp is a former nine-
term Congressman from the Buffalo area or upper New York State.
     Mr. Kemp earned his stripes as an effective advocate for the poor 
with his tireless promotion of enterprise zones in the inner cities, 
and for his responsible condemnation of housing projects that mire 
those who live there in poverty and drugs.
     As HUD Secretary, he worked effectively to adhere to President 
Reagan's goals of uplifting the quality of life for the poor.  He 
serves on the Board of Directors of Habitat for Humanity.  He is a 
Distinguished Fellow at the Heritage Foundation and serves as a member 
of the Howard University Board of Trustees.
     I would be remiss if I did not mention that he was also a 
distinguished quarterback on the San Diego and Buffalo NFL teams for 13 
years.
     Please join me in a warm VFW welcome for the Republican candidate 
for the office of Vice-President of the United States, the Honorable 
Jack Kemp.

                ADDRESS - THE HONORABLE JACK KEMP

     MR. JACK KEMP:  Thank you very much, Commander-in-Chief Spera.  It 
is nice to be here to be introduced as the former quarterback and 
former Housing Minister and former Congressman.  My grandson introduced 
me as a very important public servant.
     It is a great honor to be here today with the men and women for I 
am reminded of Dr King's belief that freedom is not free, and it is a 
great price to be paid, but you remind us that the price of freedom is 
never so high as the loss of it. With that, we stand on your shoulders.  
We thank you.
     In the presence of so many American heroes in the audience, I am 
reminded today of something last Saturday I was able to say in Russell, 
Kansas.  I mentioned that it becomes a tradition at the State of the 
Union Address every year before the Congress to pay tribute to the 
American hero or heroes in the audience in the galley.
     I suggested that next year when President Dole gives his first 
State of the Union Address there will be a hero at the podium giving 
that address.  In just a few minutes, you will be hearing from that 
man, but first it is my honor and privilege to introduce to you another 
great American hero, a comrade in arms of yours, a man who has earned 
the respect and admiration of every American, General Colin Powell, who 
helped America to a decisive victory in Desert Storm.
     However, his contributions to this country go much deeper than the 
leadership he showed on the battlefield.  Colin Powell, with whom I 
proudly serve on the Board of Trustees of Howard University in 
Washington, D.C., one of our nation's most prestigious black colleges, 
is a living manifestation of the American dream.
     Bob and I were very proud last week at our convention when Colin 
Powell, in the tradition of Abraham Lincoln, speaking to our Republican 
convention with eloquent call for unity and reconciliation and equality 
of opportunity for all Americans.  I had the honor last year of being 
asked by the Wall Street Journal to review his book ``American 
Journey.''
     When I read that autobiography of Colin Powell I came to the 
conclusion that it described a lot more than just one man's journey 
through America.  Instead of moving, he painted a portrait of a journey 
shared by countless men and women throughout our nation's history, a 
journey made in search of freedom and opportunity, a better life for 
family, children and community.
     This was a journey made by Colin Powell's parents. Like so many 
other American immigrant families, they instilled in their children a 
love of freedom, of dedication to the nation and that unshakable moral 
code.  What my American journey revealed to me above all that was Colin 
Powell is a man of that code.
     There is a certain way to treat people, he said, a certain way to 
lead men and women, a certain way to worship God and prepare for 
battle.  He is rooted in tradition.  It is required by duty and 
reaffirmed by ceremony.  By remaining true to that code Colin Powell 
truly does embody the American dream.
     Like Bob Dole, General Powell believes that every young man and 
woman in America are capable of the same potential, the same 
fulfillment of that dream if given the equal opportunity that America 
guarantees, for which you fought.
     The ladder socio-economic opportunity in America has to extend to 
our urban centers, the low-income communities all over America, and if 
we are to see the potential of the next generation fully realized.  
Colin is a proof of the words that Bob Dole spoke last week in San 
Diego.
     Bob Dole said when the flight of the sons of immigrants, when the 
grandsons of slaves fell on foreign fields, it was American blood.  And 
he went on to say you could not read the epitaphs of the soldiers who 
died next to you. You knew he was an American.
     It is my great honor to introduce to this hall of great soldiers 
another great soldier, a great patriot, a man that Bob Dole and I am 
proud to call our friend.  Ladies and gentlemen, General Colin Powell.

                  REMARKS BY GENERAL COLIN POWELL

     GENERAL POWELL:  Thank you very much, ladies and gentlemen.  I 
appreciate your very, very warm welcome.  I thank you, Jack, for that 
kind introduction.  I have to tell you that in spite of flattery to be 
introduced by Jack Kemp, one of the most inspirational men I have ever 
known, a man who exhumes his love for this country with every breath, a 
man of firm principles and beliefs, who will be taking a message of 
economic growth and family values, included as he just described, into 
every corner of this country over the next almost three months.
     Jack is, above all, a caring man.  He is a man who wants the 
American dream to become a reality for every one of our citizens.  I 
think we should all be proud that he has offered himself up for service 
in this most important way to our country.
     I am so very, very pleased to be with the VFW again.  I have had 
occasion to speak at a number of important events over the years at 
your National Conventions before Desert Storm and after Desert Storm.  
I wear with pride and honor the Gold Medal that you presented to me in 
1988, and as a reminder of what you stand for.
     I have never failed to come to such a gathering of the VFW without 
finding myself inspired, inspired by being with fellow veterans.  You 
are my buddies, my fellow GI's, buddies who have given so much to make 
our country safe and to bring  freedom to the invaded, and trust to 
people in the world.
     I salute you again for what you have done over all those years in 
your service and what you continue to do for our nation today.  I 
remember vividly speaking to you at your 94th Convention a week after 
Operation Desert Storm, I guess it was. It was an emotional time.  We 
had just won a great victory.
     In those remarks I complimented the commanders and troops who were 
serving under Norman Schwarzkopf who brought that victory home to 
America and who brought the victory to people in Kuwait.  I also 
thanked those who supported us back here, those who provided the 
weapons of war that we needed, those who provided that emotional moral 
support that meant so much to our troops in the Gulf.
     No organization did it better than the VFW with your letters and 
your gifts and how you cared for families.  After Desert Storm, 
something magical happened here in the United States.  The American 
people fell in love again with those wonderful young men and women in 
uniform who served them so proudly.
     They saw these youngsters, proud, patriotic, committed, well fit, 
well trained.  They fell in love with them all again, and parades broke 
out all over the country.  You will remember all those little parades.  
There were parades in New York, Washington, and every little town and 
village in our country.
     By the summer of 1991, I started to get calls from various 
commanders around the armed forces saying, ``Colin, you have to do 
something.  The troops are getting to like these parades too much.  The 
sailors don't want to go to sea and the pilots don't want to fly, and 
the infantry doesn't want to run  around in the mud anymore.  They want 
to know when will be the next parade.''
     We told them to give the American people all the parades they 
wanted.  We are bound together with the American people just as we were 
in 1945, and we are not going to let that bond be broken, and those in 
Desert Storm, be sure and include your Vietnam and Korean buddies, so 
they can get the parade they never got.
     The VFW has not just been with us in times of parades and 
celebrations.  They have been there with us and for us for 97 years, 
good times and bad.  You were there when others turned their back on 
the military and our uniforms were insulted.  You were there during the 
dark days after Vietnam when we were at a low point and had to rebuild 
ourselves into a first-class military.
     You stayed with us.  We always knew we could count on you.   For 
that, those of us who have served after you, will always be grateful.  
I know that you will be there and you are fighting for a strong 
defense, fighting to make sure that if our youngsters in some point in 
the future, go into battle, will know what they are fighting for. 
     They will have everything they need.  They will have the support 
of American people and they will always go to win. I know that you will 
always be there to receive them home, to make sure that we take care of 
those who have borne the burden of war and that we take care of their 
families.
     I am here today, however, to introduce a fellow veteran to you.  
You know him well.  He served his country in war and carries the scars 
of that service.  He proudly wears the Purple Heart.  He is wearing 
something to show the courage  that he showed in the years that 
followed, a spirit that carried him to new challenges to a lifetime of 
service to the country and the Congress.
     He now offers himself up as a service, as a leader of this great 
nation.  He has a vision for this country, a vision he presented to us 
in his acceptance speech last week after his nomination for the 
Republican Party.  He stands for a basic renewal of tradition of 
values, values upon which we will rest our future.
     That is a vision based on the growth of our economy with the 
simple goal of providing the dignity and rewards of  honest work to 
every able-bodied American who wants to work.  The return of power to 
the people by putting government spending and the government under 
control, and putting your money back in your pocket; the return of 
trust in this beloved land of ours to the people.
     His vision includes providing leadership to the world in a way 
that will reassure and comfort our friends and put our enemies on clear 
notice that we have the strength and the will to defend ourselves and 
to defend our interests wherever we may be called to do so.
     He has a vision that includes being an inclusive leader, inclusion 
in the conclusion of the word ``we can.''  Everybody is using it and it 
is easy to say.  I know the man from Kansas.  I know that he means it.  
I know that he and Jack Kemp will be running a campaign that will reach 
out and touch all Americans.
     It is a vision that America needs.  As he likes to say, he was 
tried and tested.  He is a man of strength, character, energy and, in 
fact, I hope he doesn't wear out Jack Kemp on the campaign trails.
     My friends, I am honored to present to you fellow veterans a Life 
Member of the VFW, Lieutenant Bob Dole, of the 10th Mountain Division, 
as the Republican candidate for the presidency of the United States.
     (Whereupon, the assembly extended a prolonged standing ovation.)

              ADDRESS BY THE HONORABLE ROBERT DOLE

     COMRADE ROBERT DOLE:  Thank you very much.  I want to introduce a 
couple of other guests.  My former colleague and Majority Leader of the 
United States Senate and Ronald Reagan's Chief of Staff, Senator Howard 
Baker is out here somewhere. Also the former Secretary of Defense, 
Donald Rumsfeld from the great State of Illinois.  He is over there 
visiting on the left.  Don and I were House colleagues together some 
time ago.  We were office neighbors, and he did a great job, and he has  
been very helpful to us in the past few months.
     Let me say that I am very honored to be here.  In fact, when we 
were driving from the airport, I was riding with General Powell and I 
was thinking, only in America could a Second Lieutenant ride with a 
General.  It is exciting, and as he indicated he received the VFW Gold 
Medal Award and he wears it proudly today.
     There is no question about his loyalty to America and no question 
about his service to America, and he will go down in history as one of 
the great leaders in the military of all time.  I am particularly proud 
that General Powell is with us today and I am also very proud that Jack 
Kemp, who was in the Congress and has always been a strong supporter 
and strong advocate of America's fighting forces, and a very good 
friend of the VFW, and I am proud to have Jack Kemp as my running mate.
     He was a quarterback for the Bills and the Chargers and he is 
being a blocking back for me, and we are going to have a great time in 
the next 78 days.  I have had the great pleasure of speaking to a 
number of VFW Conventions.  I would like to speak to your 100th 
Convention as the President of the United States in 1998.
     I know that Senator Thurmond spoke to your first Convention.  He 
will probably speak again at the 100th Convention.  I know that I speak 
for General Powell and Jack Kemp in saying how honored we are to have 
this opportunity again to meet with members of the VFW.
     There is no question about it, as General Powell said, one of the 
outstanding organizations in which I am very proud to be a Life Member.  
Norman Staab is out there.  He got me to be a Life Member.  He got 
everybody to be a Life Member. You can't be a member of Post 6240 
unless you are a Life Member.
     I know that others have done a lot of great work, too, in that 
area.  I spoke last week in San Diego, perhaps some of you may have 
heard it, and I did talk about the great values that a proud America 
through time and time again.  I talked about the values of God and 
family and duty and honor and country.
     These are values that I learned in Russell, Kansas, and Jack Kemp 
learned in Southern California, that General Powell learned in New York 
City, and that you learned in your home community.  They are the values 
that I took with me to the hills of Italy and that you took with you to 
places like Normandy, Midway, and Pork Chop Hill, Saigon, the Persian 
Gulf.
     They are the values that remain with all of us still.  They remain 
with me and they remain with you.  They are the values that have always 
been the heart and soul of the VFW.  I see it on my right and I see it 
on my left.  What does the VFW say?  ``We'll do anything for this 
country.''  That is what the  VFW is all about.
     Whether it is supporting a defense budget, which allows Americans 
philosophication of the leaders of the free world or teaching our young 
people what it means to be an American in your Voice of Democracy 
program, or ensuring that America honors this sacred commitment to care 
for those who risk their lives for America, and there are many in this 
audience, as I can see.
     There are probably hundreds and thousands of stories in this 
audience of 5,000 or 6,000 this morning of heroism, of risking your 
lives for your fellow man, of suffering, of hardships.  You are here 
today because you care.  You care about the VFW, yes, but beyond that 
you care about America.
     You care about your family; you care about freedom; you care about 
liberty.  I bet there is not a person in this room who wouldn't be 
willing to risk their life one more time to keep America free.  That is 
what the VFW is all about.  It is not about politics, it is not about 
Republicans or Democrats or Independents, it is about Americans.
     I must say when I was a young soldier in the hills of Italy, I 
didn't know anything about politics.  Nobody asked me before they fired 
whether I was a Republican or a Democrat.  If  I had known then what I 
know now, I would have probably said, ``I don't belong to any organized 
party.'' 
     Whatever the cause, the men of the VFW and the Ladies Auxiliary 
stand today where you have always stood, throughout this century four 
squares in support of God and family, and duty and honor for our 
country.  As I look out in this gathering, as I have for the past few 
minutes, I am reminded of the many times we have stood together over 
the years.
     We stood together in support of our soldiers in Vietnam.  As you 
recall, at the time there was a rather large voice in the Congress that 
wanted to cut off funding even while we still had men there missing in 
action, women missing in action, POW's.
     They were still serving and dying for our country, and there was a 
big effort in Congress to cut off funding.  I said ``no'' and you said 
``no'', and together we prevailed with the help of a lot of other 
people in Congress and the millions and millions of Americans all 
across this country.
     We stood together when the Vietnam War was over in demanding a 
full and complete accounting of our POW's and MIA's, and, an 
accounting, which make no mistake about it, still has not been 
delivered.  We still have to say every day we want an accounting.
     We still have to be heard.  We stood together in support of 
President Reagan's efforts to reverse the years of neglect and rebuild 
our armed forces.  We watched with pride as the Iron Curtain crumbled 
in response and country after country turned democratic capitalistic.
     One thing I said, and I have said it here before, I was in the 
United States Senate when all this was happening and I was the 
Republican leader.  Many of these leaders and all these Eastern 
European countries and the former Soviet Union would come to America, 
and they were young and they were old and they were men and they were 
women, and some had been locked up and put in jail because they spoke 
up about some of the problems in their country and in effect took on 
the administration.
     They came to our office, and I know Senator Baker remembers this, 
too.  Many of those who come to America for foreign aid, they want a 
hand-out, they never mentioned foreign aid.  They came to us and they 
talked about America. They talked about basic freedoms that we had and 
they just received the right to worship, the right to travel that we 
think nothing about.
     They had to wait for years and years, and sometimes never the 
right to leave their countries, the right to send  their children to 
school and the right to pick up a telephone without somebody listening 
on the other end; the right to vote, and almost without exception, as 
they would leave our office, and many would say with tears streaming 
down their cheeks, it was almost the same message each time, it wasn't 
that we want foreign aid or we want this or we want that.
     No, what it was, it was very simple.  They said, in fact, ``We 
want to be like America.  We want to be like America.''  I say that so 
we will never forget that we are the greatest country on the face of 
the earth, the United States of America.
     So we are fortunate.  Many have paid a price and we could fill 
this hall twice over for those who never came back, who never had a 
chance, never had the opportunity, but they preserved it for us because 
of the sacrifice that they made around the world.
     So it is an opportunity and a privilege and honor, win or lose, to 
address this Convention.  I am looking in the faces of men and women 
who are out there every day trying to make it work, creating jobs and 
creating opportunities with the same concerns and anxieties that 
Americans have everywhere about jobs, health care and what happens to 
me, what happens to my family, my kids and my grand kids.
     So I know we stand together in one of the most important wars we 
have ever fought in this country, and that is the war against drugs.  
It is reported today in the survey just released today that drug use 
among young Americans rose 78 percent in the past four years.
     This is nothing short of a national tragedy.  I have said to 
myself, starting next January, I am going to make the drug war priority 
number one once again.  I will call together the best anti-drug 
advocates and the best experts I can find for a White House Conference.
     We will work together in a non-partisan, bipartisan way to find 
solutions to put us back on the course to absolute victory against the 
war on drugs.  That is one drug that we should not use.  It is time to 
send a clear message to our young people.
     We had temptations in our time, too, different, that everyone 
resisted.  We see what happens with increased drug use, particularly 
among those 12 to 17 years of age, cocaine use increased 166 percent.  
That is hard drugs.  I know I can count on the VFW for help.
     We also stood together in economically tough times to ensure 
reducing the deficit would not be accomplished on the back of the 
American veterans.  We stood together in support of George Bush's 
heroic leadership in the Persian Gulf.  We stood together in the 
establishment under President Reagan for cabinet status for the 
Department of Veterans Affairs.
     We stood together and we stand together still in support of the 
Constitutional Amendment to protect the American flag.  I think it is 
important to this country.  We have accomplished a great deal, but you 
have accomplished a lot more in every community in America.
     Our work is far from complete.  Jack and I are here not just to 
thank you for all you have done for America in the past, but also to 
share with you for just a few moments where we hope to meet America's 
future.  I will say to my fellow Democrats, my parents were Democrats 
and they were the best people I knew.  I did get them to convert, but 
it took a while.
     I am not here in that binding partisanship, I believe in America 
as you do.  As I spoke last week in San Diego, one of the great lessons 
of history is that if America is prepared to fight many wars and 
greater wars, and any wars to come, then we will fight fewer wars and 
lesser wars, and perhaps no wars at all. 
     It is a lesson, I say, I think the fact is that the administration 
has forgotten in the past four years while the administration has 
increased domestic spending by 23 percent, it has also slashed defense 
spending by 11 percent, and I must say very honestly it would be more 
if it had not been for the Republican Congress and some Democrats in 
Congress, the bipartisan drew a line in the sand.
     The men and women who serve in the armed forces have paid a very 
personal price for these reductions.  Last year, the military pay was 
13 percent below the comparable civilian level.  It was estimated that 
close to 17,000, believe it or not, 17,000 junior enlisted personnel 
were relying on food stamps.
     That should not happen if you wear the American uniform.  You 
should not be on food stamps.  The General said after the Persian Gulf 
War there was pride again.  I know that the Vietnam veterans in this 
audience, they might recall their ordeal when they came home.
     Some people would walk across the street if they saw a uniform.  
That is not happening now.  We have finally erected a memorial for the 
Korean veterans, the forgotten veterans in this audience.  I can say it 
no better than the former Vice-Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, 
Admiral Bill Owens, ``We cannot expect service members to lay their 
lives on the line when back home their families have to rely on food 
stamps to make ends meet.''
     There is no question about it.  We can do better.  We must restore 
our nation's commitment to our men and women in uniform.  It is also a 
fact that much of what is left of a defense budget has not been used to 
guarantee long-term military superiority, which is the result that is 
very much in place.
     This is just not Bob Dole and some candidate talking.  That is 
General Dennis Reimer, the Army Chief of Staff, who told Congress 
recently, ``Further deferral of modernization will encourage 
significant risk of future readiness.  We must continue to produce and 
field adequate modern equipment or see our system completely wear out.  
At the current rate of replacing our tanks, we will not be completely 
modernized for over 40 years.''
     Now, if we have not been saving money to modernize our forces, 
where have we been spending it?  In my opinion, too much has been 
squandered in some of the U.N. missions which has precious little to do 
with American security.  Let me make it crystal clear, on day one of my 
administration I will place American security and American interests 
first, because placing it anywhere else endangers all of us.
     I will never forget the armed forces in the missile attacks.  I 
will never commit the armed forces, not one single Army soldier to an 
ordeal without the prospect of victory. I will lead as your Commander-
in-Chief as President of the United States and not the Secretary 
General of the United Nations.
     Let me also mention the word that has become an all-too frequent 
part of the vocabulary, the word terrorism.  Under America all seven 
countries, Syria, Iran, Libya, Iraq, North Korea, Saddam Hussein and 
Cuba are states listed as sponsoring terrorism. 
     How has this administration chosen to deal with them? The 
Secretary of State has on more than 28 occasions refuses to speak out 
strongly enough on Syrian support for terrorism and has opposed 
Congressional efforts to punish Syria in harboring terrorists.
     Unbelieving, this administration supported most freely U.S. 
nuclear reactors despite a treaty weapons ban of mass destruction and 
frequent threatening of South Korea, one of our allies.  Iran was given 
a green light by this administration to ship weapons into Bosnia, while 
it opposed and vetoed bipartisan Congressional attempts to arm the 
Bosnians and withdraw U.S. American forces so they could defend 
themselves.
     They had a right to receive defense.  We had 69 votes in the 
Senate that said they had that right.  But it never happened.  U.S. 
sanctions on Iraq were eased, with the active support of the 
administration, allowing Saddam Hussein access to millions of dollars 
in oil revenue.
     Tougher sanctions on Libya were opposed.  After three years of 
closing up Fidel Castro, it took the murder of  Americans over 
international waters last February to convince this administration to 
support my legislation to impose sanctions on Cuba.
     Furthermore, what kind of a message was sent to terrorists when 
this administration refrained from any retaliation after Captain Scott 
O'Grady was shot down over Bosnia by Bosnia Serb forces?  What I would 
do, I would replace this confusing message with a different one.
     On my first day in office, I will put terrorists and their 
sponsors on notice if you harm one American, you harm all Americans.  
America will pursue you to the end of the earth. In short, don't mess 
with us if you are not prepared to suffer the consequences.  Don't mess 
with us if you don't want to suffer the consequences.
     Let me just spend one or two moments on the economic side.  
Economics here is important.  National security, military security, 
economic security, they are really the same side of the coin.  We 
cannot be prosperous if our nation is at risk.  We cannot be secure if 
a stagnant economy fails to provide the growth, the innovation, jobs, 
economics and the other resources necessary for our national defense.
     Our economic plan is based on one simple principle, the more money 
you leave with the earners, the American people, the more things they 
can do with it and the more free and vibrant our economy will be.  In 
other words, we trust you with your money.
     Some trust the government more with your money.  The reverse is 
true as well.  That is just common sense.  The more money that the 
government takes from the people, the less they  have to spend to build 
and invest, and the less opportunity there is for the economy to grow.
     The more they take away, the less there is of opportunity.  This 
is a lesson that so many countries around the world has taken to heart.  
We must all remember that here in America, and I hope you hear a little 
bit about the economic plan.  It is not very complicated.
     It simply says that every American, every taxpayer will get a 15-
percent across-the-board tax cut and we are going to balance the 
budget.  It is not difficult to do both.  You have children.  I bet 
there are people in this audience with children and grandchildren and 
the $500 per child tax cut for low and middle-income families and a cut 
in the capital gains rate by 50 percent so you can create more jobs and 
more opportunity for people in your communities.
     That is what we are going to do.  That is more money to save, more 
money to expand large and small businesses, and more money to invest in 
new ideas and new technologies, and above all in new jobs.  We will not 
stop there, because under our plan we will also get rid of the IRS as 
we know it and that will give you a lot of help.
     We are going to make our tax code flatter, fairer and simpler so 
it doesn't take a Philadelphia lawyer and an accountant to fill it out.  
We think it is time, and we can do that and put us on a path to a 
balanced budget.  There are those that believe we can't do it, that we 
can't cut taxes and we can't balance the budget.
     They also want you to believe, and this is the point I want to 
make, that our plan will mean drastic programs like Medicare, Social 
Security and veterans' benefits.  Let me respond to that, because I am 
going to offer my official response to this outstanding audience.
     It is the same famous one word response that General Anthony 
McCawley of the famous 101st Air Force days in World War II, when the 
German Army demanded the surrender of U.S. forces at Gestalt.  The 
General said, ``Nuts.''  That was his response and that is my response.  
Even if you don't like the tax cut, you are going to get it.
     We are going to balance the budget.  The interest rate is going to 
drop about two percent.  Cutting taxes and balancing the budget at the 
same time is simply a matter of presidential will.  If you have got it, 
you can do it.  I have got it, and I will do it for you veterans and 
your families.
     You think for one minute, and a lot of you are in the same 
category, someone who has spent three years of his life in an Army 
hospital, someone who owes his education to the G.I. Bill, would stand 
by and allow the budget be balanced on the back of American veterans?
     There is no way that will happen if Bob Dole is President of the 
United States.  All my life I have remembered veterans.  I was the 
Service Officer in the VFW in Russell, Kansas, for a long time.  I was 
proud to be the Service Officer.
     I felt I had an obligation, because it was sort of a fraternity, 
it was a certain camaraderie of everybody that served in the armed 
forces, and not everybody could and not everybody went overseas, but 
this group did.  We had great experiences.  I will be a President who 
will work for VA health-care assistance and provide modern medical care 
more efficiently and more effectively, to provide much-needed reform in 
health-care eligibility requirements.
     My goal is a veterans health-care delivery system that reflects 
21st Century health-care advances, not the old stuff, but the new 
stuff.  Our veterans are entitled to the best and they will have it.  I 
will be the President who will solve the lingering problems of the 
disabled veterans, of the award of benefits to which they are fully 
entitled and desperately need.
     What else can we do?  We should do it.  Again, it is a matter of 
common sense, a matter of justice.  We talk about honor and duty to our 
country.  Let's talk about honor and duty to our country.  Never 
abandon our disabled Americans.  That is not going to happen in my 
administration.
     We are going to be a President that will improve education 
benefits and many employment opportunities for veterans.  As a matter 
of fact, after I left the Senate on July 24th, the Veterans Committee 
reported out a bill I introduced before I left that will create a 12-
member Commission to assess the effectiveness of current employment and 
job grading assistance programs managed by several cabinet departments 
and make recommendations for improving these programs.
     Above all, I will be a President who will never compromise on the 
values that have kept America strong; the values to make the VFW a 
valuable national asset; the value to God, family, duty, honor and 
country.
     Let me conclude with one comment by another friend of yours.  I 
want to do two things as I close.  First, I would like to make a 
presentation.  This past Memorial Day, shortly before I left the Senate, 
I asked that a flag be flown over the United States Capitol in honor of 
the men and women of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
     After flying over one of America's hallmarks of freedom, I can't 
imagine a better place than for it to fly over another hallmark of 
freedom, the VFW National Headquarters. Let me present that to you, 
Paul.
     Secondly, I want to leave you with the words of a man that Jack and 
General Powell and myself, and many of you of the VFW were proud to call 
your friend, former President Ronald Reagan.  Think about 12 years ago 
this week.  President Reagan spoke to this Convention.
     I want to repeat just a little paragraph of what he said.  He said, 
``When I look at you, when I think of all you have lived and known and 
learned in your lifetime of service, a lifetime of honor, I can't help 
wondering who more than you could better understand how precious are the 
gifts of life and freedom and faith.  Who more than you has the courage 
and the wisdom to help us protect these gifts for our children and for 
our children's children?  In my heart, I know it is true. America's 
future must be a future of peace, and together we will see to it that it 
is done.''
     That is what Ronald Reagan had to say 12 years ago. The same 
applies today.  This is a great organization.  I am again proud to be a 
member of it.  Thank you very much for the invitation and may God bless 
this VFW and may God bless the United States of America.
     (Whereupon, the assembly extended a prolonged standing ovation.)

                REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON NATIONAL BY-LAWS,
                MANUAL OF PROCEDURE AND RITUAL (Cont'd.)

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  I would like to get this one completed 
before we leave here.  If we can get people back into their seats, we 
will take care of this one by-Law change in just a few moments.  Please 
stay with us and let us get that done.  This is a very important change.  
Please do not leave until we discuss it.  We will finish that one.
     Let's call this Convention back to order, please. Please do not 
leave this hall.  This is in the middle of a very important debate on a 
by-law change.  You must listen to it and your voice should be heard.
     As we closed off the debate on this, the next speaker at the 
microphone was the Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief.  At this time I will 
turn this microphone over to you as a courtesy since he is up here.  I 
will turn this mike over to the Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief for the 
comments that he will make.
     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF NIER:  Thank you, Commander-in-
Chief.  I appreciate that.  I am James Nier, Post 8919, Department of 
Texas.  Comrades, like all comrades, I ask you to reject B-23 for the 
following reasons.  I, too, am a member of the Life Membership 
Committee, one of five, and I voted for the increase for the Life 
Membership as did the other four members of the Committee.
     I did not make my personal decision in a vacuum. There was much 
data presented to us and many drafts were presented.  Statistics, 
whatever it might have been, the bottom line for me to vote for this 
Life Membership increase was the fact that the comrade that holds the 
judicial responsibility to monitor that Life Membership Foundation, the 
Quartermaster General, recommended to this Committee that we must 
increase the Life Membership fees at this time and in those amounts, 
based on the presentation to him by the actuaries.
     Now, what does that mean?  I feel, comrades, that we must think 
long-term, the future of this great organization, as we know it and you 
have heard it, and I will not throw a bunch of numbers at you, but there 
has not been a Life Membership increase since 1976.  That is 20 years 
ago.
     What should have happened is this.  There should have been 
incremental changes along the way.  Unfortunately, for whatever reason, 
there were not.  I would submit to you that had there been probably the 
Life Membership fees would not be higher than what this by-law, this 
change is proposing.
     Now, that is the problem.  Someone said, and many people have said 
before me, we are not going to raise these fees during my watch because 
it is a very emotional and controversial issue.  I, as my Commander for 
1996-'97, and at the Adjutant General Quartermasters, Senior Vice 
Conference in Kansas City, we were presented all this data.  Most 
thought it was the right thing to do.
     They didn't agree with the time.  The National Organization wanted 
it effective 1 July, and we said okay, we will compromise and make it 
effective 1 September.  That is what the Committee passed.  I am now 
hearing, and probably rightfully so, the increase for the 80-year-old 
members is high, and I understand that, but these figures were figured 
by the actuaries.
     Twenty years ago, the average age of longevity was 76.  Now it is 
82.  It goes on and on.  Things have changed. We can't try to fix this 
with a short-term type decision.  If we have in our hearts the future of 
this organization, it has to be done now.
     They told us it has to be done now.  If we don't do it now, we are 
going to just be putting off the inevitable that will happen.  I have 
been to Departments across the country and some have said lower the pay-
out to $3.50 and do not increase the membership fees.
     That is a very irrational decision, comrades, in my opinion.  We 
are trying to pay you $7.  Don't reduce it to $3.50.  Comrades, I could 
go on and on, and I ask you to just consider one thing.  The future of 
this organization, not this year, not next year, five and ten years from 
now, we are not paying up for select membership fund for the first time.  
I believe it is the first time this year.
     That is something along the lines of $6 million on the first one.  
We have to monitor this thing and get it back on line or we will have a 
demise of the Life Membership Fund in the future.  I do not think that 
there is anyone in this room that wants that to take place.  Comrades, I 
respectfully ask you to reject B-23.  Thank you very much.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 3.
     COMRADE AL LOEHR (Post 4847 - Minnesota):  Comrade Commander-in-
Chief, I am here to speak against B-23.  In 1946, I was a member of this 
Committee to review the actuarial soundness of the Life Membership fee 
structure.  We were told at that time that there are two things that you 
must keep in mind and that is fiscal responsibility and judiciary 
responsibility.
     As I hear some of the comments today, I have come to the statement 
that my comrades to the Veterans of Foreign Wars wouldn't understand the 
impact and the meaning of those two words.  That is fiscal 
responsibility and judiciary responsibility.
     So many things have been said in regard to other matters, and I 
will not address those.  I am surprised at the people who are now 
pursuing those dangerous, and when they signed those petitions of 
leadership for 20 years and never made a move to increase the fee or 
even discuss it.
     ``Don't do it on my watch.  Do it on someone else's.'' My comrades, 
don't be led down the primrose path.  We need to accept the 
responsibility in this organization that fiscally we must remain sound 
and under the laws of the land we must understand that judiciary 
responsibility is the number one thing we ought to be concerned about.  
Thank you, Commander-in-Chief.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 1.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF ROBERT WALLACE (Post 1851 - New Jersey):  
Commander-in-Chief, I am Bob Wallace, a delegate from Post 1851, New 
Jersey.  I stand before you, my fellow delegates, and urge you to defeat 
B-23.  B-23, in my view, takes this organization backwards.
     This organization must go forward.  You just heard a candidate talk 
about the future of our children, our grandchildren.  With respect to 
this organization, we want this organization to be around for many, many 
years.
     We need to establish a natural base.  We need moves.  This is one 
of those moves.  I have heard some comments about the Life Membership 
Trustees.  Four of the five Trustees are elected by us.  They are 
representatives of us.  We elected them.  We chose them.
     Our Quartermaster General will be derelict in his duties if he did 
not come before us and tell us what we had to do to ensure our economic 
vitality.  My comrades, I also heard that the biggest benefactor of this 
increase is the National Organization.
     You know what, my comrades, you and I are the National 
Organization.  Do you know who decides how the money is spent?  That is 
our representatives on the National Council.  My comrades, this is a 
very emotional issue.  There is a lot of hot buttons to be pushed.
     I ask you to look at it in the same perspective that you looked at 
things every other week, every week, once a month when that check comes 
in to your household.  What are you doing to prepare for the future when 
interest rates are going down?
     There was a campaign four years ago, my comrades, that said it very 
clearly.  It is, ``The economy, stupid.  Let's pay attention to the 
economy.''  My comrades, we are not being stupid.  The recommendation of 
the Trustees of the Life Membership Fund is a viable recommendation and 
it is a recommendation that ensures vitality, fiscal vitality in this 
organization.
     I ask you to put the emotions aside, think what happens at your 
kitchen table when that check comes in and how you are preparing for 
your future, and support the recommendation of the Trustees of the Life 
Membership Committee and reject B-23.  Thank you, comrades.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 2.
     COMRADE JAMES CARLISLE (Post 10097 - Florida): Comrade Commander-
in-Chief, I am Jim Carlisle, a delegate from Post 10097, Ft. Myers 
Beach, Florida.  I rise in opposition to this resolution.  The reason I 
am in opposition to this resolution is that we must go forward and, 
quite frankly, I know in my own Post we argued about a dues increase 
last spring.
     We were going to raise our dues from $16 to $20, and four people 
that were arguing about it belongs to the same Elk's Club that I do that 
pays $100 a year annual dues.  I do not understand this.  I think that 
this dues increase for the Life Membership should have been done years 
ago.
     I understand that it is the Commander, the Senior Vice-Commander, 
the Junior Vice Commander, the Adjutant General and the Quartermaster 
General that made this decision.  I want to tell you right now that I 
take my hat off to them for having the guts enough to do what should 
have been done ten years ago.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 3.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF ART FELLWOCK (Post 1114 - Indiana):  My 
name is Art Fellwock.  I am a member of VFW Post 1114 in Evansville, 
Indiana.  In our Post, we have over 1,800 Life Members, and we work the 
Life Membership very hard.  You know, we have received here at this 
Convention more by-laws changes pertaining to this Life Membership than 
anything else.
     They were all against an increase in Life Membership.  That shows 
us that the folks back home in every state, they were not for that Life 
Membership increase.  Now, let me tell you, I agree with long term.  We 
should speak of the future.  I want to speak of the future.
     Let me tell you right off, we say we need this increase because we 
have had deficit spending.  I have heard that we have had deficit 
spending going down.  Well, if you will look at the figures, we have 
$115 million in the Life Membership Fund.
     The actuaries who we believe we should have and want every year to 
do that, the actuaries say we should have $119 million.  My comrades, 
that is only a four-percent deficit.  Why in the heck do we have to 
raise the Life Membership fees 35 percent?
     You don't get a Social Security raise of 35 percent, do you?  You 
don't get a pay raise of 35 percent.  What I am saying we should do and 
what this Convention Board should do, we should tell the National 
Organization to get their act straight, to go back next year and have 
the actuaries again  figure it.
     If we need a small raise, we can raise it two or three percent.  
The following year have the actuaries look at it again, and if we need 
another small raise, let's do it that way.  Let's don't raise this Life 
Membership fee 35 percent in one year.  I am for the amendment.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 1.  
I would make a request that the speaker that is standing at the 
microphone, if you would indulge me, I see the Quartermaster General 
standing in line there, and if you would allow him to speak, then I will 
come right back to you and then we will continue.
     Comrades, the Chair is interested in getting all of the views on 
the floor.  We will stay here as long as we need to and as long as you 
want to.  I don't have a problem with that.  I would like to show a 
little bit of respect to the Quartermaster General.
     He has a very important message pertaining to this that he would 
like to deliver.  Let's let him do it and listen to him, and we will go 
right back to the debate again. 
     Comrade Quartermaster General, will you come to the microphone, 
please.  The Quartermaster General has chosen to wait in line like 
everyone else, and that is your choice.  That is fine.
     The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE GORDON SHEWMAKER (Post 3016 - Alabama):  Comrade Commander-
in-Chief, I am Gordon Shewmaker, a delegate from Post 3016, Alabama.  
Also I am the State Adjutant/Quartermaster.  I rise in opposition to 
B-23.  I would like to go back to my 20 years and tell a little story.
     Twenty years ago, when the Life Membership fees were raised, 
everyone in Alabama thought this was the end of the Life Membership 
program.  We didn't like the Life Membership program because we had the 
A, B and C members, which we received very little in the Life Membership 
program.
     We were at that time receiving $4.50 per annual member.  We only 
had ten percent Life Members in our state.  Since that time, in the 
increased pay-out, we are well over 30 percent in Life Members.  We must 
move forward.  We must look to the future and we must increase our Life 
Member pay-outs as we go along. 
     The only way we can do that is to increase the Life Member fee.  I 
again ask my comrades to support the defeat of B-23.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 2.
     COMRADE NORMAND GAOUETTE (Post 8681 - Florida):  Comrade Commander-
in-Chief, I am Normand Gaouette, Post 8681, a delegate from the 
Department of Florida and also Commander of the Department of Florida.  
We stand in rejection of B-23.  The costs for our Posts, Districts and 
Department are going up, while our rebillings are going down.
     The individual that talked about a two-dollar increase as no big 
deal a little while ago.  I am in full  agreement with that.  However, 
if you multiply that by 81,000 members, you are talking about a lot of 
money.  It is our belief that we must compete and step into the Twenty-
first Century.
     Our program funding needs this increase.  We support a lot of 
programs in the State of Florida.  I have a registered service office in 
St. Petersburg.  All this requires money.  We must recognize the fact 
that the VFW is a great organization that serves us, and that takes 
money.  We have got to recognize when we stop helping veterans, we have 
lost the game.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 3.
     COMRADE KEN MEAD (Post 9400 - Arizona):  Comrade Commander-in-
Chief, I am Ken Mead, Post 9400 in the State of Arizona.  I rise in 
support of B-23 for these reasons.  Number one, when we get a membership 
increase for the dues, it comes on this body and we vote on it, yes or 
no, up or down. 
     I feel that any time we make any membership increase of monies for 
our members, such as the Life Membership Fund, it should be brought to 
this body and let us make the decision, not Kansas City.  It was also 
brought up that the Chief went back to the Post Commander, to the 
Department Commander and to the Post Commander.
     I can assure you that my 1,350-member Post operates quite well 
without the monies coming back from the Life Membership Fund.  What we 
do with ours, we put it into a CD. We draw interest on it.  The last 
time the Department of Arizona at its Convention in June voted not to 
raise the Life Membership Fund dues.  Thank you.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE STEVE JACOBS (Post 5944 - California):  Comrades and 
delegates, I come before you for the approval of B-23.  I was in that 
meeting last night as an observer, since I wasn't on that Committee.  
The Quartermaster General said this has been lacking over the last 
several years.
     Comrades, this came across to us several years ago. That is number 
one.  Number two, the National By-Laws say the minimum will be $3.50.  
If the National Organization has all these experts, they should have 
never given the $3.50, they should have left it there where they had the 
money they needed to have.
     I have no problem with an increase overall, but I say that a 
35-percent increase is a little ludicrous.  It should be over a period 
of time.  The National Organization's share will lose approximately 
$900,000.  The Post level will not lose that much and the Departments 
will undoubtedly have to suffer.
     We will all have to do something.  We will all have to redo our 
budgets.  We need to do this over a period of time and not a one-time 
basis.  Thank you, Commander-in-Chief.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 2.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF LARRY RIVERS (Post 1736 - Louisiana):  
Commander-in-Chief, thank you very much.  My name is Larry Rivers.  I am 
a delegate from VFW Post 1736, Louisiana.  Before we started this 
debate, I talked to the Quartermaster of my Post.  My Post dues are 
$10.50.
     He tells me he is losing $5.50 on every Life Member he has.  My 
Post, which was the largest in Louisiana, has had budget deficits for 
the last five years.  We have an obligation, there is no question here.  
I think we need to talk about whom we owe that obligation.
     We have a right to consider the views of those Posts and those 
Departments that are financially strong.  We also have an obligation to 
Roy Heaths, who stood up in our Committee meeting and said we in Atlanta 
are trying to fund a certain program to help veterans and cannot stand 
pat on Life Members anymore.
     We have an obligation to almost one million members that are Life 
Members that don't affect us.  Many of you have this same cap that I 
have.  I am a Life Member.  I became eligible in June, 1969, when I was 
a Marine in Vietnam as a Second Lieutenant.
     If I had bought the Life Membership then, I wouldn't have had to 
pay as much as I did in 1976.  So somebody got a better deal than me 
because they were there and I didn't take advantage of it.  Those that 
bought it after 1976, up to now, and buying it now, will get the same 
deal as well.
     So we have an obligation to us as an organization. We have an 
obligation to all of our folks, not just the ones that don't need this 
increase.  You know, I am 49 years old and I have been coming to VFW 
meetings for 21 years, almost half of my life.
     Every Convention I can remember our elected officers told us as 
delegates listen to what is going on at this Convention because it is 
very important.  You are deciding the future of the organization.  My 
experience has been those delegates have done exactly that.
     For 21 years, I have been one of those delegates. Many of you in 
this same room have as well.  In 1990, our By-Laws were amended and I 
was in a position that you honored me by letting me hold.  But, you 
know, in 1990 apparently somebody said, this Life Member deal is an 
emotional issue.
     It is important to the organization that sooner or later somebody 
will have to make some decisions. So, apparently somebody said well, who 
better than those we elect to point us in the direction?  As leaders, 
you are asked to bring recommendations, you are asked to do things.
     You are asked to bring things before the body and you elect those 
leaders to do exactly that.  I didn't volunteer to be on the Life Member 
Trust Fund Committee.  None of the five of us volunteered.  We didn't 
say let's get this thing passed one day.  The body said we need somebody 
to make that decision because this will be a contingency we made and if 
we have strong leadership when the time to do it they will bring it 
forward and present it to the body.
     You know why it is in the By-Laws, because it takes a two-thirds 
vote to change those By-Laws.  We don't put things in By-Laws loosely 
and we don't take them out loosely.  This is an emotional issue, but it 
cannot and it must not be an emotional decision.
     Certainly, there are much greater orators in this room than I that 
can stir up this crowd and tell you and set up the straw man of the 
National Organization?  Who are we talking about at the National 
Organization.  Are you taking about Rachael and Judy, my secretaries, or 
me, the administrator and not the policy maker?
     Who is that straw man, who is that boogie man that so many people 
can use to rile the truths?  I will tell you who they are.  They are 
people in which you have put special trust and they are people that work 
every day in Kansas City and Washington, D.C., to do the right thing for 
you.
     Anybody who wants to somehow rile everybody up at the Department 
level, and in your Conventions this is the Posts against the Department.  
You know why, because that is the easiest thing to do.  I want to tell 
you, my friends, we did the right thing, and this is one proud Marine 
that looks at my sailor, Joe Ridgley, and say I love you, and you did 
this right thing and I am proud to be standing by you, and the 
delegation will do the right thing by you.  Thank you, comrades.
     (Whereupon, Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief Nier assumes the Chair.)
     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF NIER:  The Chair recognizes 
Microphone No. 3.
     COMRADE DANIEL BARTHOLOMEW (Post 3144 - Minnesota):  Comrade 
Commander-in-Chief and Delegates, I am a delegate from Post 3144, 
Minnesota, Dan Bartholomew.  I became a Life Member in 1976 and I paid 
$120.  I am sure you did not get the return that you needed on that kind 
of money since that time.  That was 20 years ago. 
     I am surprised at this Convention, because most of us are Life 
Members.  We are talking about Life Members on down.  Really, what 
concerns me here is I don't see the State Quartermasters standing up at 
the mikes, because I know how important that money is coming back to the 
States and Districts.
     I can't believe they are not talking about it, because they depend 
on that money.  They don't live on a budget.  What happened before, I 
remember when it was $5.50, and what will happen if we don't raise it 
now?  I would like to have some clarification, Commander-in-Chief.  What 
happens if this is not raised and you do not make the money, the $5, do 
you cut that again?  It has been cut before and will it be cut again?  Thank you, Comrade Commander-in-Chief.
     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF NIER:  The Chair will recognize 
Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE JOHN GWIZDAK (Post 5080 - Georgia):  I rise in opposition 
to B-23, not only simply because of the way it is written but what it 
has done to us today, if we accept it, is to put us back in time and 
back in time that we don't need to be.  I am an Adjutant Quartermaster 
of my state and I know what the financial responsibilities are.
     I also know what the By-Laws of this organization tell me.  The 
only way that they are there is because the delegates on this floor at 
one time or another decided that a five-member Committee should make the 
decision.  Now, on your watch or on my watch doesn't matter.
     The By-Laws put it there for you to do it.  You have chosen to make 
that decision today.  Now, if we were not satisfied with that five-
person Committee, then we should have done something about it a long 
time ago.  Yes, I do agree that perhaps there could have been a slight 
increase, but someone chose not to do that at that time.
     They chose not to make the decision and to bite the bullet as the 
five-member Committee did today.  I can only tell you this, if we go 
back to our organizations today knowing full well that only a few states 
put in resolutions against the Life Membership increase, then we owe our 
folks an explanation also why we as delegates were not prepared to bite 
the bullet to put the future where it needs to be and to take our 
membership where it needs to be in the future.  Thank you, comrades.
     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF NIER:  The Chair recognizes 
Microphone No. 2.
     COMRADE DANA HUSSEY (Post 4485 - New Hampshire):  Comrade 
Commander-in-Chief, I am Dana Hussey, Post 4485, New Hampshire, and also 
the Department Commander.  I am in favor of B-23.  When I was in Kansas 
City in April, they told me my quota would go to 650 Life Members for 
the year.  That is three times what we normally do.
     But then the National Organization tells us not to worry, we are 
going to help you.  We are going to raise the fees over $100 per age 
group.  That isn't helping us a lot. Right now we have nearly already 
met our entire Life Membership result last year; we have done it right 
now, all but 40 members of what we had all last year.
     If the fee would stay the same as it is, I agree there would be 
changes but we don't need them all in one shot. If the fee would stay as 
it is, I guarantee you the Department of New Hampshire would meet its 
quota.  You will have a surge in Life Membership and you are going to 
have the money that is going to be there for a long, long time.
     I agree with some of the other delegates that we do need the 
increases, but over a period of time in small increments, not killing 
the older veterans.  It has really hurt everyone.
     Another very important question, my delegates asked me, and I 
didn't have the answer for them, and that is why when you knew this was 
going to happen and you knew that it was going to take place, we didn't 
know that this was going to come up, that we didn't know about the 
actuaries and graphs and charts.
     Why were they not made available to everyone and let everyone know 
it?  I know that is difficult to do with over a million members, but at 
least the Council of Administration, somebody should have been made 
aware of this so we would be better informed.
     I am not saying what you are doing is right or wrong.  All I am 
saying is that we should have been better informed and maybe if we were, 
and had a better grasp of the situation, we might have been more in 
support of this.  I must rise in support of the resolution to defeat the 
increase.  Thank you very much.
     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF NIER:  The Chair recognizes 
Microphone No. 3.
     COMRADE JOHN GOLLIHARE (Post 1504 - Nebraska):  Comrade Commander-
in-Chief, John Gollihare from Post 1504 in Nebraska.  The way I look at 
this, if we don't pass this amendment we will lose membership.  
Everybody says we are going to gain money and we don't lose membership.
     I have talked to a lot of people in my home Post and I live in a 
rural area in Nebraska that is on minimum wage.  They have to put food 
on the table.  If they paid this Life Membership, you raise that Life 
Membership, you are taking food off the table.  Otherwise they are going 
to quit the VFW.
     I will tell you why they can't afford it.  They are not making 
$177,000, like some people up there.  If they can't control their 
spending, we ought to just clean house.  You have got one hundred some 
million dollars in the Life Membership program and you probably have got 
$35 million in some other budget.                     
     What you need to do is to learn how to spend your money, and you 
are paying all these experts about $20 million just to tell you what to 
do. I thought that is what we hired you guys for.  I thought you guys 
were elected to do that.  You go and spend $6 million on a doggone golf 
tournament.  Let's spend it on veterans.
     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF NIER:  I recognize Microphone No. 1.
     QUARTERMASTER GENERAL JOE RIDGLEY (Post 8220 - Missouri):  I am Joe 
Ridgley from VFW Post 8220, Belton, Missouri.  I am also the 
Quartermaster General.  I want to answer one question before I ever get 
started on the Life Membership  to my friend here from Nebraska.
     There is no one at the headquarters that makes $170,000 or 
$175,000.  There is no one there that makes more than that, either.  You 
know, I haven't heard a debate like  this since 1976, my first year with 
the National Organization.  It was my first year I went to New York City 
and the Quartermaster General stood up there, Al Cheatham, who I respect 
dearly.
     He stood up there with Pete Walker, Bulldog Smith, John Wasylik and 
others, and they were trying to sell a by-law change to increase the fee 
after seven years.  They were increasing the fees by 57 percent after 
seven years so they could pay out what was necessary to pay out to make 
sure that  the Posts and Departments and National could be paid a 
similar amount to what they were being paid for their annual members.
     You know, it is not easy to sit up there and listen and have people 
put words in my mouth.  I heard a lot of things said here today that I 
said this and I said that.  Well, then I got accused of putting too much 
in writing, I was sending out all kinds of information.
     If I would not have sent it, I would have been accused of not 
giving you any information.  Read it, comrades, what I have said is in 
there.  If you want to know what I said, don't ask the Chairman of the 
By-Laws Committee or the Department Commander from Illinois, ask me what 
I said.
     There are a lot of things said here today that I didn't say.  I am 
here to tell you that it is tough because I  take it very seriously.  I 
work for you and I work for every single one of you, and I am trying to 
do a job for each one of you.
     I am not going to stand here today and defend myself against the 
inaccurate statements.  You can see what is in writing and it is out 
there.  I am also not going to lower myself to attack the character of 
anybody.  I had discussions with the Commander-in-Chief a couple of 
weeks ago and we didn't want it.
     We said this is a Convention and we don't want to attack character.  
Sometimes we all feel like our character is attacked.  I do want to ask 
where were your people when the by-laws were changed in 1990 to take 
your right to vote on this issue away from you?  I don't know where they 
were.
     But there are people in this room right now that were there.  Ask 
them.  They say I am speaking for the members.  Well, we are playing a 
hand we were dealt.  The by-law says that was changed in 1990, the Life 
Membership Committee will propose any fee changes.  That is what was 
done.
     In effect, comrades, we are sitting and debating an issue.  Do you 
know what, you are doing just that.  We are going to vote on this by-law 
change and you are going to vote either to increase it up or increase it 
down.  You are going to get what you want.
     You know something else, I don't know where we are at parliamentary 
procedure-wise, but if this by-law that was submitted established the 
fee without any indication of a Life Membership Committee or anybody 
else recommending it to the delegates, it also takes the Life Member 
Committee back to three members.
     You all know how politics works.  The Quartermaster General can 
recommend anything he wants, but if the Commander-in-Chief is against 
it, the Adjutant General works for the Commander-in-Chief, it doesn't 
take much common sense to realize that that is why it was changed in the 
first place to make the Life Membership Committee five instead of three.
     I would like to say that if this by-law is defeated, I would like 
this Convention to set aside B-19 submitted by the Department of 
California, and it says the Life Membership Committee will recommend and 
the delegates will vote on the member increase.  I have never been 
opposed to that and I never will be opposed to that, you deserve that 
right that was taken away from you in 1990.
     I think I have said enough.  The increase is needed.  I recommend 
it and I am not going to apologize for recommending it.  I have 
recommended the fee increase and I know I am not as eloquent as some of 
the other speakers, but my job is not a speech maker, my job is to work 
with the finances of this organization.  Thank you very much.
     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF NIER:  The Chair recognizes 
Microphone No. 2.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF PAUL SPERA (Post 144 - Massachusetts):  Thank 
you very much, Comrade Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief.  I am Paul Spera, 
Post 144, Boston, Massachusetts.  I come to the microphone on this issue 
only for the purpose of some clarification.
     I have heard a lot of things, and let me begin by saying, Joe 
Ridgley, I may not be able to read, but I love you, too, and you are 
doing a great job.  You were right, we did have that conversation, and 
this is not a personal issue for or against any individual.
     Let's not make it one.  Let's keep it on a higher plane and let's 
discuss the issue on its merits.  There have  been a couple of things 
that were said yesterday that I think need to be clarified so that you 
can make an intelligent decision.
     The fact has been stated that if there is not an increase in the 
Life Membership Fund or the Life Membership  fees, the fund will 
deplete.  The fact of the matter is that this increase creates a new 
category.  This is not going to deplete the Life Membership Fund that is 
there.
     The amount of money that is in that Life Membership Fund pays out 
the $5 right now will continue to pay that out, as I understand it.  So 
if you are receiving $5 per member under this old fee, the amount of 
money that is in the fund for that will still remain at that level.
     If there is a problem with that, with 900,000 plus Life Members 
that we have now, that will continue.  That is the way I understand it.  
I understand that this increase is to pay $7 per member for every new 
Life Member, not for every Life Member that you have right now.
     The present Life Membership pay-out will not change for all of the 
Life Members that you have.  The only effect that these new people have 
is to change all future Life Members to $7.
     Is that correct, Joe?
     QUARTERMASTER GENERAL RIDGLEY:  That is correct.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  So all the Life Members that we have 
now, the problems that we have now with the Life Membership Fund, the 
possibility that those Life Members are now being paid $5 will possibly 
drop to $4 or $3.50, that will still exist for 900,000 plus Life 
Members, that will still be a problem.
     This will not solve that problem.  I just wanted to clarify that 
figure, and I just wanted to let you know that everybody is correct, 
this is a very emotional issue.  Anybody can come to the microphone here 
and make a motion and statements and try to move this.
     Listen to it carefully.  Figure out in your mind the amounts of 
money we are talking about.  Figure out what the effect of all future 
Life Members increasing the two dollar per member will have on your 
Post, your Department, and then vote your conscience accordingly.  That 
is all I am going to ask you to do.
     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF NIER:  The Chair recognizes 
Microphone No. 3.
     COMRADE JOHN LIEBSACK (Post 2503 - Nebraska):  I am John Liebsack, 
Post 2503, Nebraska.  I come in support of this B-23 as a Past Post 
Quartermaster and as Membership Chairman from my Post.  We have over 
1,000 Life Members in our Post.  We don't need that increase.
     As a Membership Chairman, we are out knocking on those doors day to 
day.  What we need are the tools to recruit those members and let's 
leave it there, the Life Membership fee where it is.  Thank you.
     (Whereupon, Commander-in-Chief Spera assumed the Chair at this 
time.)
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE CHARLES SHORT (Post 1503 - Virginia):  Comrade Commander-
in-Chief, I am Charlie Short.  I am a delegate from Virginia Post 1503.  
I rise in opposition to this motion.  Comrades, the issue is very, very 
narrow.  The issue is only fiscal integrity of one of our funds.
     I know, I have been there, I have done it, comrades, because I am 
the Supreme Senior Vice-Commander.  I have seen personally what happens 
when you do not pay attention to fiscal issues, when you do not 
recognizes the challenges that are set before you in financial 
responsibilities and do not live up to those financial responsibilities.
     Comrades, I also get a little emotional.  I spent 18 months working 
every single day to try to resolve the problems that were established 
because we did not face financial responsibilities.  I urge each and 
every one of you to think of only one thing.
     This is a separate fund.  This fund has to finance certain things.  
Since 1976, the CPI view, for example, has gone up well over 120 
percent.  Since 1976, the interest rates have dropped dramatically.  
Since 1976, comrades, the longevity rates of all of us have increased 
over 40 percent.
     For the more mature that we are looking to be, and some of us are 
there, this is the greatest country in the world to live in.  We have 
increased that population by over 60 percent.  We just have to maintain 
the fiscal responsibility of his fund.  It really is not going to affect 
recruiting.
     It is really not going to affect a lot of other things, but I have 
heard countless times it is a big fund, you can spend it and then you 
don't have to address the hard issues.  I don't want anybody to pay any 
more money for anything in the world, but that is not a fact of life.
     We have an example that I can lay before you personally and 
directly that is a problem of the MOC had specifically with the Life 
Membership Fund, and they did not address the issue until just last 
year.  They had a problem. Their financial stability of their 
organization was in doubt for a short period of time because they could 
not face the tough hard issue.
     I am sorry.  We are going to have to pay more money. Everything 
increases.  You know, because we did not do something ten years ago, 
that was wrong.  I feel that if we don't do something positive about 
this today, that is also a wrong.  I tell you two wrongs never make a 
right.
     I thank you for listening to me.  I appreciate you all.  I hope we 
can go together and build a better organization.  Thank you, Commander-
in-Chief.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Microphone No. 2.  Now, we  do not take 
motions from the floor unless someone comes to a microphone.  If you 
would like to make a motion, you must be at the microphone to do so.
     The Chair recognize Microphone No. 2.
     COMRADE DENNIS WALL (Post 4164 - New Jersey):  Comrade Commander-in-Chief, I am Dennis Wall, Post 4164, New Jersey.  I am also the 
Department of New Jersey Commander.  I want to report to this delegation 
99.95 percent of the delegation of the Department of New Jersey approves 
of B-23. Thank you very much, Commander-in-Chief.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 3.
     COMRADE ROLLAND HILD (Post 8334 - Nebraska):  Comrade Commander-in-
Chief, I am Rolland Hild, Post 8334, Nebraska, Department Commander.  I 
make a motion that we vote.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion is to call for the question.  
Is there a second to the motion?
     The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 3.
     COMRADE JACK ARMAGOST (Post 4836 - Nebraska):  I second the motion.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion has been made and seconded to 
call for the question.  On the motion of calling for the question only, 
all those in favor will signify by saying ``aye''.  Do I dare call for 
those against to say ``nay''.  The ``ayes'' have it.
     We have a motion on the floor.  The motion is to approve B-23.  If 
you vote ``aye'', you vote to approve B-23. All those in favor of 
approving B-23 will signify by saying ``aye''; all those opposed say 
``nay''.  I am going to tell you right now that the Chair is in doubt.
     COMRADE CRAIG SWARTZ (Post 1069 - Ohio):  I am the State Commander 
of Ohio and I would like to call for a roll call vote, because this 
takes a two-thirds majority.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  I need ten Posts from ten different 
Departments to call for a roll call vote.  I have one Post from one 
Department.
     Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE ALEXANDER VERNON (Post 9191 - Texas):  Comrade Commander-
in-Chief, my name is Alexander Vernon, a delegate from Post 9191, the 
Department of Texas.  I also request a roll call vote.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Department of Texas has asked for a 
roll call vote.
     At Microphone No. 2, is there someone that wants to make a motion?
     COMRADE JOHN DeBOLD (Post 7642 - New York):  Comrade Commander-in-
Chief, I am John DeBold, Post 7642, New York, one of the few remaining 
members of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Comrade Commander-in-Chief, I 
believe that is not necessary.   We can have a standing vote and not a 
roll call vote.  You don't need a roll call vote.  A standing vote is 
enough.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Comrade, I am sorry.  Your comments are 
out of order in this particular instance.  I have individuals who are 
now trying to request a roll call vote. 
     The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 2.
     COMRADE RICHARD FRUGE (Post 5153 - Louisiana):  I request a roll 
call vote, sir.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 3.
     COMRADE WAYNE THOMPSON (Post 5061 - Colorado):  Commander-in-Chief, 
Wayne Thompson, Post 5061, Department of Colorado, requests a roll call 
vote.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Microphone No. 1, is there anyone at 
Microphone No. 1?
     COMRADE ED MORAN (Post 7447 - Delaware):  We request a roll call 
vote.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Microphone No. 2.
     COMRADE MICHAEL DePAULO (Post 5986 - Massachusetts):  Comrade 
Commander-in-Chief, Michael DePaulo, Post 5986, Department of 
Massachusetts, requests a roll call vote.
     COMRADE ORLIN JACKSON (Department of Minnesota):  Comrade 
Commander-in-Chief, Orlin Jackson, State Commander of Minnesota, I call 
for a roll call vote.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE GEORGE RIEDEL (Post 969 - Washington):  My name is George 
Riedel, and I am a delegate from Post 969, Tacoma, Washington.  We 
request a roll call vote.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Microphone No. 2.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF CLYDE LEWIS (Post 125 - New  York):  
Comrade Commander-in-Chief, Clyde Lewis, Post 125, New  York, requests a 
roll call vote.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Microphone No. 3.
     COMRADE NORMAND GAOUETTE (Post 8681 - Florida):  I request a roll 
call vote.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you very much.  I now have ten 
comrades from ten Posts and ten Departments who have called for a roll 
call vote.  We will prepare for a roll call vote.
     Comrades, this is the way it works.  The Adjutant General will call 
the roll.  The Credentials Committee will tally the votes.  We will tell 
you how many votes you have.  Now, this is going to take us a few 
minutes to set up, so I am going to declare a five-minute recess.  A 
recess is in place for five minutes.

     Recess.

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  On a roll call, let me read to you the 
rules so you know how we do this.  On roll calls, the Chairman or Acting 
Chairman, and that will be the Department Commander or the Senior Vice-
Commander of each delegation shall poll is delegation on the floor and 
shall announce the vote of his delegation.
     The delegation may arrive at a vote in any manner they see fit, but 
shall announce it in terms of full units and not in terms of a 
fractional part of a vote.
     When the report of the Chairman of the delegation is not acceptable 
to all members of the delegation and a poll of the Department delegates 
is demanded by ten delegates of that Department, the Adjutant General 
shall poll the delegates, without discussion of the question.
     So we will tell you how many votes you have, the Department 
Commander will announce the number of those votes for either side of the 
issue.

     Recess.

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Comrades, the podium says it is 1:06.  
When it says 1:10, we will begin the roll call.  I would like to ask the 
Department Commanders to begin lining up at the microphone here in 
alphabetical order.  The total delegate count is 11,786 votes.
     Let me remind you that in order for this motion to prevail a two-
thirds majority is necessary of the votes cast.
      Microphone No. 2.
     COMRADE CRAIG SWARTZ (Post 2847 - Ohio):  I need some 
clarification.  I believe you said it takes ten individuals. Is that ten 
individuals or ten separate Posts?
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  No, it takes ten delegates, but they 
have to be from ten different Posts.  For those of you who are listening 
to this, this is referring to when the Department Commander announces 
the vote for his Department, it takes ten members of that Department, 
ten delegates of that Department to challenge that vote.
     If, in fact, ten members of that Department challenge the vote, the 
Adjutant General will poll the Department delegates who are present.  Is 
that clear?
     COMRADE CARL GOINS (Post 489 - Tennessee):  Does the Senior Vice-
Commander get that plus one vote as the Commander?
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The vote for the Department Commander is 
his personal vote.  The only one that can cast that vote is the 
Commander.  If he is not present, then you lose that vote.
     COMRADE CARL GOINS (Post 489 - Tennessee):  Do you have to be 
registered and stamped in order to vote?
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  If someone questions the vote, they must 
be prepared, if a delegate, to show their delegate card stamped 
registered in order to challenge the vote.  They must have that card 
showing they are registered.
     Microphone No. 2.
     COMRADE DEAN WHITE (Post 27 - Europe):  I would like you to repeat 
the total number of delegates that will vote.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The total number is 11,786.  Comrades, 
we should now have the Department Commanders lined up.  It looks like 
Microphone No. 1, is that correct?   Where do we have them?  I can't see 
them.  Why don't we all get you all at Microphone No. 1 in alphabetical 
order, if you would, so we can begin this roll call.  When the roll call 
begins, there will be order in this room so we can do this 
expeditiously.
     The Adjutant General will now begin the roll call.  A vote of 
``yes'' is to pass the by-law change.  A vote of ``no'' is to defeat the 
by-law change.  In order to pass the by-law change, there must be a two-
thirds majority.  Please, let's hold the noise down so we can hear the 
roll call and the vote.

                     ...As Adjutant General Rivers called the
                        roll of the states, the following votes
                        were cast: ...

                      STATE                       YES             NO

                     Alabama                                      191
                     Alaska                        48
                     Arizona                      183
                     Arkansas                      36              89
                     California                   349
                     Central America               20
                     Colorado                      105             71
                     Connecticut                   196
                     Delaware                       42             86
                     District of Columbia           26              4
                     Department of Europe                          66
                     Florida                        30            511
                     Georgia                                      239
                     Hawaii                         13              2
                     Idaho                          64
                     Illinois                      793
                     Indiana                       471
                     Iowa                          113
                     Kansas                        388
                     Kentucky                      266
                     Louisiana                     122
                     Maine                         136
                     Maryland                      252
                     Massachusetts                 171            203
                     Michigan                      444
                     Minnesota                                    440
                     Mississippi                                  139
                     Missouri                      295              3
                     Montana                        31
                     Nebraska                      222
                     Nevada                         42             10
                     New Hampshire                 108              1
                     New Jersey                    345             44
                     New Mexico                     36             68
                     New York                      364              2
                     North Carolina                               131
                     North Dakota                   63
                     Ohio                                         650
                     Oklahoma                      127
                     Oregon                         50
                     Pacific Areas                  55
                     Pennsylvania                  924
                     Rhode Island                                  58
                     South Carolina                               144
                     South Dakota                   98             53
                     Tennessee                     198
                     Texas                           7            458
                     Utah                           22
                     Vermont                       102
                     Virginia                      183
                     Washington                    164
                     West Virginia                 138
                     Wisconsin                     118             71
                     Wyoming                        34

        COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Pass.
        PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF BILLY RAY CAMERON:  No.
        PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF JOHN M. CARNEY:  No.
        PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF TED C. CONNELL:  No.
        PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF THOMAS E. WALKER:  No.
        PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF GEORGE R. CRAMER:  Yes.
        PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF JAMES R. CURRIEO:  Yes.
        PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF ARTHUR J. FELLWOCK:  Yes.
        PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF ROBERT E. HANSEN:  No.
        PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF WALLY W. HOGAN:  No.
        PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF ALLEN F. KENT:  No.
        PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF JAMES L. KIMERY:  Yes.
        PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF CLYDE A. LEWIS:  Yes.
        PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF JOHN W. MAHAN:  Yes.
        PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF CLIFFORD G. OLSON, JR.:  Yes.
        PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF ERIC SANDSTROM:  Yes.
        PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF RAY R. SODEN:  Yes.
        PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF NORMAN G. STAAB:  Yes.
        PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF JOHN J. STANG:  Yes.
        PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF JOHN S. STAUM:  No.
        PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF HOWARD VANDER CLUTE, JR.:    Yes.
        PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF ROBERT E. WALLACE:  No.
        PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF DR. JOHN WASYLIK:  No.
        SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF JAMES E. NIER:  No.
        JUNIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF JOHN E. MOON:  No.
        ADJUTANT GENERAL LARRY RIVERS:  No.
        QUARTERMASTER GENERAL JOE L. RIDGLEY:  No.
        SURGEON GENERAL CURTIS BOHLMAN:  No.
        NATIONAL CHAPLAIN LYLE KELL:  Yes.
        NATIONAL CHIEF OF STAFF JOHN SMART:  Yes.
        INSPECTOR GENERAL LEROY WILLIAMS:  Yes.
        District  1  -  Arthur Roy, yes.
        District  2  -  Edward Banas, yes.
        District  3  -  Armondo Azzinaro, yes.
        District  5  -  John Dahman, yes.
        District  6  -  George McCracken, yes.
        District  7  -  Roy Womble, yes.
        District  8  -  Charles Stephenson, no.
        District  9  -  George Pullie, yes.     
        District 12  -  Charles Fresorger, yes.
        District 13  -  Jack L. Armagost, yes.
        District 15  -  James H. Ferguson, yes.
        District A   -  Americo DiLoretto, yes.
        District B   -  Russell Rieke, yes.
        District D   -  Terry Roan yes.
        District F   -  Wayne A. Buck, yes.
        District G   -  Raymond C. Sisk, yes.
        District I   -  George Lisicki, yes.
        
     FROM THE FLOOR:  You did not recognize Districts 17, 19, 16 and 15.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  According to the records that we have 
here, they are not registered as delegates as National Council members.  
If you have a card that says you are registered as a National Council 
member, not as a regular delegate, as a National Council member, your 
card says that, then you are registered.
     COMRADE EUGENE MANFREY (Post 6827 - Florida):  I am Eugene Manfrey, 
National Council member for District J of Florida, I am registered as a 
National Council member.  I have my credentials here.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Do you have a national stamp registered?
     COMRADE  EUGENE MANFREY (Post 6827 - Florida):  Yes, I do.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Then we have a vote for Eugene Manfrey.
     COMRADE EUGENE MANFREY (Post 6827 - Florida):  I am voting no.
     COMRADE NORBERT K. ENOS (Department of HawaiI):  I am from District 
16 and I have my registered card here as a National Council member and I 
vote ``no''.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  One vote ``no'' for District 16 Council 
member.
     COMRADE MANUEL O. RIVAS (Department of Texas):  I am registered as 
a Council member.  I don't have my card.  They gave me this, and that is 
the only thing they gave me.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Is that registration as far as being a 
delegate or a National Council member?
     COMRADE MANUEL O. RIVAS (Department of Texas):  I am registered as 
a delegate and I have a complimentary vote. Anyway, I vote ``no''.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  But do you have something that shows you 
are registered?
     COMRADE MANUAL O. RIVAS (Department of Texas):  Yes.
     COMRADE TOMAS BUNTING (Department of Maryland):  I am the State 
Commander from Maryland.  I need some clarification. When they gave the 
figures that gave us 247 plus one.  When I came up to vote it was 251.  
I need a point of clarification, please.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The official vote was 251 plus one.  251 
is the actual vote in Maryland, plus one.
     We have those that were recommended for rejection. As soon as we 
get a tally, if we have none that are going to be set aside, we can take 
a vote on it.  If there is any that people want to have set aside, we 
will have to hold it over until tomorrow morning.  We will just play 
that one by ear.  Let's get a tally on this one first.
     QUARTERMASTER GENERAL RIDGLEY:  You all know when you register, you 
get a card to put in the insurance drawing. Since we didn't really have 
time to do it today, the insurance drawing for today as been made, and 
the winners will be back at the insurance booth.
     I have one other thing, regardless of what happens here, you guys 
have done a heck of a job getting in the Life Membership in the last 
four months.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  I want to call now for the total from 
the Committee.
     COMRADE RICHARD TROMBLA (Post 1174 - Kansas):  Comrade Commander-
in-Chief, I am Richard Trombla from the Department of Kansas, Chairman 
of the Credentials Committee.  These are the totals: 3,880 ``no''; 7,898 
``yes''.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The voting having been cast, the measure 
has been carried by more than two-thirds.  The motion has passed and the 
by-law has changed.
     I will now call one last item of business.  I will call the 
Chairman back for the rejections.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF HOWARD VANDER CLUTE:  Comrade Commander-in-
Chief, the following Proposed Amendments to the By-Laws, and Manual of 
Procedure and Ritual were recommended for rejection by the Committee.

                     B-1 - Formation, Chartering and Instituting.
                     B-2 - Surrender or Forfeiture of Charter.
                     B-3 - Suspension and Revocation of Charter.
                     B-5 - Defunct Posts.
                     B-6 - Section 212, Defunct Posts.
                     B-16 - Applications - Affiliation of New Members,
           Section 102.
                     B-17 - Right of Appeal, Section 109.
                     B-18 - Life Members for Posts is now moot.
                     B-19 - Life Members; B-20 - Life Members; B-21 - 
           Life Members; B-22 - Life Members.
                     B-25 - Section 515, Elected and Appointed Officers;
           Chairmen and Committees.
                     B-26 - Section 608, Officers, Elected and 
           Appointed.
                     B-27 - Section 608, Officers, Elected and 
           Appointed.
                     B-28 - Section 610, Officers, Powers and Duties.
                     B-29 - Section 610, Officers, Powers and Duties.
                     B-30 - Article VII - Miscellaneous Provisions.
                     B-31 - Article XI - Ladies Auxiliary.
                     B-32 - Section 1201 - Formation and Control.

     That concludes the Proposed By-Laws.  Under Manual of Procedure, M-
4, Section 101, Eligibility.  Under the original  that is it, other than 
to be set aside.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Microphone No. 2.
     COMRADE THEODORE EATON (Post 2104 - Massachusetts):  Comrade 
Commander-in-Chief, I make a motion that the Convention accepts the 
recommendation of the Committee on the rejections.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you very much, but a motion is not 
in order.  Unless someone asks them to be set aside we will 
automatically accept the recommendation of the Committee.
     Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE ROBERT STEVENS (Department of Connecticut):  I would like 
to have set aside B-16.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  B-16 has been set aside. Any others to 
be set aside?  If there are no others to be set aside, the ruling is 
that all if those, except for B-16, that have been recommended for 
rejection have been rejected.
     Now, we have no more time in this room this afternoon.  We must 
vacate right now.  So what I am going to do is to hold that over until 
tomorrow morning and put that as an order of business in the morning.
     I would like to announce that I am going to dismiss from his duties 
the Parliamentarian, Ed Burnham.  He has to go home to have some medical 
tests.  His replacement will be his assistant, Lynn Balkin from the 
Department of Kansas, starting tomorrow.
     We will have the Closing Ceremonies at this time. 
     (Whereupon, the Salute to the Colors was given, followed by 
National Chaplain Lyle N. Kell.)
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  We are recessed until tomorrow morning 
at 8:30 o'clock a.m.
     (Whereupon, the session was recessed at 2:00 o'clock p.m.)


                          SECOND BUSINESS SESSION
                    WEDNESDAY MORNING, AUGUST 21, 1996


     (The Second Business Session of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the 
United States, held in the Commonwealth Convention Center, Louisville, 
Kentucky, was called to order at 9:00 o'clock a.m., with Commander-in-
Chief Paul A. Spera, presiding.)
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Sergeant-at-Arms, please prepare the 
room for the Salute to the Colors.
     (The National Sergeant-at-Arms led the Convention in the Salute to 
the Colors and the Pledge of Allegiance.)
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  We will now have the Opening Prayer by 
National Chaplain Kell.  
     (The Opening Prayer was given by the National Chaplain Reverend 
Lyle N. Kell.)
     NATIONAL SERGEANT-AT-ARMS SARVER:  Comrade Commander-in-Chief, the 
Opening Ceremonies have been performed, Comrade Commander-in-Chief.

                   REPORT OF CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  I would like to call on the Chairman of 
the Credentials Committee for his report, please.
     COMRADE RICHARD TROMBLA (Post 974 - Kansas):  Comrade Commander-in-
Chief, Richard Trombla, Post 974, Department of Kansas, Chairman of the 
Credentials Committee.  Comrades, this is a temporary report.
     Delegates, 12,578; Department Commanders, 44; National Officers, 
32; Past Commanders-in-Chief, 26.  Members-at-Large, 1.  That is a total 
of 12,681.  That is a temporary report, Commander.

                   INTRODUCTION OF MILTON METZ,
                  MARCH OF DIMES REPRESENTATIVE

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you very much.  Two of our VFW 
Departments and one VFW Post have made outstanding contributions to the 
March of Dimes this past year.
     Our next guest is here to recognize their efforts.  He is a well-
known broadcast personality in Kentucky and Southern Indiana, active in 
nearly every phase of both television and radio.
     In 1959, he created ``Metz Here'', a public opinion phone-in 
program which, until he withdrew from the show in 1993, was one of the 
highest rated local radio shows for more than three decades.
     He was, for nine years, co-host and co-producer of the W.H.A.S.-TV 
show ``Omelet.'' He was Channel 11 weatherman, offering his unique blend 
of humor and comment.
     He is a member of the Kentucky Journalism Hall of Fame, winner of a 
Ford Foundation Grant to the United States and has won awards from the 
National Arthritis Foundation, the National Commission on Working Women 
and a variety of other prestigious awards including the nation's top 
radio award from the American Psychiatric Association.
     He is here this morning representing the March of Dimes, one of the 
many charitable organizations he has served throughout his long and 
distinguished career.
     Please give a warm VFW welcome to W.H.A.S.-TV personality, Milton 
Metz.

                   PRESENTATION - MILTON METZ

     MR. METZ:  Thank you very much.  I am Milton Metz and I am a 
broadcaster here in Louisville.  My program happens to be called ``Metz 
Here'', and if you don't mind the pun, I am really glad to be ``Metz 
Here'' with you today.  You may not know me, but I certainly know you 
and your heroes, heroes in many ways.
     Your service to your country and all over the world is proof of 
that.  You are heroes yet again because of battles that you are helping 
to win right here in America today.  I am speaking now of the battles 
against threats to our nation's young, the threats of birth defects, of 
infant mortality, low birth rate, everything that the March of Dimes has 
fought for years because these are your children, your grandchildren.
     We know this is a great country of ours, but, nevertheless, the 
United States is twenty-fourth in the world in its mortality.  That 
means that babies born in 23 other nations, countries like Northern 
Ireland, Finland, the Netherlands and Singapore have a better chance of 
living to their first birthday than babies born here.
     That is pretty frightening, isn't it, especially when you consider 
that the United States is the richest and most advanced country in the 
world.  The good news is this.  Our rate of infant mortality is the 
lowest that it has ever been. What does that mean?  It means we are 
making progress.
     It means we are winning battles.  It means we still have a lot of 
work to do, but we are getting there.  One of the reasons for that 
progress, ladies and gentlemen, is you, and that is why I call you 
heroes, heroes for healthier babies.
     The VFW, a long time supporter of the March of Dimes, has been 
monumental in helping the foundation to fund vital research into the 
causes of birth defects and other infant problems. It has resulted in 
healthier babies and healthier mothers.
     Over the past two years alone, the March of Dimes has made some 
major progress for American babies. For instance, two more March of 
Dimes researchers have won the Nobel Prize, bringing the total to ten 
Nobel Prizes.  Their work has shed light on the causes of a great number 
of birth defects.
     The Food & Drug Administration, thanks to the advocacy of the March 
of Dimes, made a ruling to help prevent hundreds of babies from 
suffering birth defects.  The Back to Sleep Campaign, supported by the 
March of Dimes and many other organizations, to educate parents who put 
their babies to sleep on their back or their side, has reduced death by 
30 percent.
     The March of Dimes researchers found giving antibiotics to pregnant 
women with bacterial infections can reduce premature births.  These are 
wonderful achievements. You helped make them possible.  While we still 
have to keep at it, as long as any babies are born with birth defects or 
other  health problems, we know we can do it because we have a record of 
victories to build on.
     On behalf of the March of Dimes and America's babies, thank you all 
for your long and loyal support.  Thank you for being in every sense 
heroes for healthier babies.
     I now have the pleasure of presenting some very special awards 
honoring achievements in 1995-1996.  First, the award for achieving the 
second place in financial support for the March of Dimes Commission, 
North Dakota VFW and the Ladies Auxiliary.
     Now, the award for outstanding support of the March of Dimes 
mission, the winner is Maryland VFW Ladies Auxiliary. Will they please 
come up?
     Last, but not least, the award for the number one VFW Post in 
financial support of the March of Dimes mission goes to Salisbury, 
Maryland Post 194.  Congratulations to our winners. Let's give them all 
a big round of applause for the help for the past and future generations 
of this nation's young.  Thank you very much.

               REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON NATIONAL BY-LAWS,
               MANUAL OF PROCEDURE AND RITUAL (Cont'd.)

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  At this time I would call upon the 
Chairman of the National By-Laws and Manual of Procedure and Ritual, 
Howard Vander Clute, Jr., so we can conclude our business on that 
question.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF VANDER CLUTE:  Thank you, Commander-in-
Chief.  There is one unfinished piece of business that must be addressed 
this morning, and that relates to the set aside of B-16, which was 
recommended for rejection, and yesterday was asked to be set aside 
concerning Section 102, Application and Affiliation of New Members.
     I think procedure requires that whoever had that set aside now move 
to approve.  We need a second so that it can be debated.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  That is correct. The person that asked 
that be set aside, someone needs to go to the microphone and make the 
motion.  There being no motion to pass this, the recommendation of the 
Committee will be accepted and that is to reject it.
     I will now relieve you as Chairman of the Committee with my thanks 
and best wishes.  Thank you very much.  It was a great job.

                   REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON FINANCE 
                      AND INTERNAL ORGANIZATION

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  For the Report of the Committee on 
Finance and Internal Organization, the Chairman is Past Commander-in-
Chief George Cramer.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF CRAMER:  Thank you, Commander-in-Chief.  
First of all, I would like to recognize the Vice-Chairman of the 
Committee, Past Commander-in-Chief Ted C. Connell, from the great State 
of Texas.  Of course, I would like to recognize the other members of the 
Committee that are scattered amongst you out there.
     We deliberated Monday afternoon early with the following results.  
     First of all, Resolution 202, PAC-Endorsement of Candidates, has 
been withdrawn by both submitters, the Department of New Jersey and New 
Hampshire. We have recommended for adoption Resolution 207, Application 
Form for National Members-at-Large.
     Commander-in-Chief, I will move that the delegates concur with the 
recommendation of the Committee and adopt this resolution.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  I have a motion to accept the 
recommendation of the Committee to adopt this resolution. Do I hear a 
second?
     Microphone No. 2.
     COMRADE TED BLOUIN (Post 2059 - Texas):  Comrade Commander-in-
Chief, Ted Blouin, Post 2059, Texas.  I second the motion.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion has been made and properly 
seconded to accept the recommendation of the Committee and adopt the 
resolution.  Anything on the question?  All those in favor will signify 
by saying ``aye''; all those opposed ``nay''.  The ``ayes'' have it.  
The motion is carried.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF CRAMER:  Thank you, Commander-in-Chief. All 
the remaining resolutions were recommended for defeat or rejection.  
     They are 201, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Uniform 
Proof of Eligibility for Membership.

                     No. 203, Life Membership.
                     No. 204, Change to National Convention Schedule.
                     No. 205, Health Program for Department Service
           Officers Tied to National Program.
                     No. 206, Provide National Members-at-Large Rosters 
           to Departments.
                     No. 208, National Membership-at-Large.
                     No. 209, Tax Exempt Status of Post.
                     No. 210, Life Membership Fee Increase.
                     No. 211, Continuation of the All-American Program.
                     No. 212, Credit Deceased Life Members to Posts at 
           the Beginning of the Membership Year.
                     No. 213, National Convention Rules.
                     No. 214, National Convention Rules.
                     No. 215, Amendments.
                     No. 216, Life Membership Fees.
                     No. 217, Initiate New Cancer Program.
                     No. 218, Rescind Life Membership Fees Increase.

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE RICHARD PIGNONE (Post 3173 - California):  I move to set 
aside No. 212.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  No. 212 has been asked to be set aside.
     Microphone No. 2.
     COMRADE JOHN PETERS (Post 4809 - Virginia):  Comrade Commander-in-
Chief, John Peters, Post 4809, Virginia, requests that No. 211 be set 
aside.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  No. 211 will be set aside.
     Microphone No. 3.
     COMRADE DONALD HEUER (Post 9433 - Minnesota):  We are now asking to 
set aside the approved amendments, right?
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  We have already passed those.
     COMRADE DONALD HEUER (Post 9433 - Minnesota):  We are now moving 
for adoption of the rejected amendments?
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  If you have one that you would like to 
set aside, give us the number and then we will get back to that number.
     COMRADE DONALD HEUER (Post 9433 - Minnesota):  No. 213.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  You would like No. 213 set aside.  Let's 
have the Post number, please.
      COMRADE DONALD HEUER (Post 9433 - Minnesota): Comrade Commander-
in-Chief, it is Post 9433, Minnesota.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you very much.  No. 213 is set 
aside.  Anybody else at Microphone No. 3?  So we have 211, 212 and 213 
that have been set aside.  Are there any other set asides?
     Microphone No. 3.
     COMRADE DONALD HEUER (Post 9433 - Minnesota):  I would like Nos. 
214 and 215 set aside.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Nos. 211, 212, 213, 214 and 215 have all 
been asked to be set aside.  Any other set asides?  Hearing none, the 
recommendation of the Committee is to reject, and I need to have a 
motion to accept.  The ones set aside, someone must make a motion that 
they be passed.
     Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE RICHARD PIGNONE (Post 3173 - California):  I move that we 
adopt No. 212.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion has been made to adopt No. 
212.  Do I have a second to that motion?
     COMRADE ROBERT MARR (Post 7283 - California): Comrade Commander-in-
Chief, Bob Marr, Post 7283, California, seconds it.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion has been made and seconded to 
adopt 212.  I will turn to the Chairman to find out what 212 is.
      PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF CRAMER:  No. 212 is to ``Credit Deceased 
Life Members to Posts at the Beginning of the Membership Year.''  The 
deliberation was as follows.  Obviously, the membership throughout the 
organization is adversely affected by deaths of members and their 
concerns will increase in the coming years.
     Nevertheless, the Membership Program begins with the premise that 
the organization must replace those deceased members or it will wither 
and die.  Reducing the starting membership goal gives a false picture of 
Post members to replace deceased members in growth of its membership and 
give false results. The Post that is 100-percent Life Members could, as 
a result of deaths, have no members at all and meet 100 percent for 
contest purposes.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Microphone No. 2.
     COMRADE RICHARD PIGNONE (Post 3173 - California):  Comrade 
Commander-in-Chief, is that 212 he just read?
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF CRAMER:  I am sorry.  You want 211?  You 
asked for 212, right?
     COMRADE RICHARD PIGNONE (Post 3173 - California):  I asked No. 212, 
but that does not coincide with what you just said.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF CRAMER:  You want the resolution in its 
entirety or just the ``Whereas''?
     COMRADE RICHARD PIGNONE (Post 3173 - California): I would 
appreciate it if you would go right down the line.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF CRAMER: ``WHEREAS, under the current 
system, deceased Life Members are removed from a Post's Life Member 
totals in September of each year but this total is not removed from the 
beginning total membership; and
     ``WHEREAS, if the total deaths were removed from the total 
membership, Posts would be more inspired to recruit replacement members 
to keep the Post's membership on a continuous rise; and
     ``WHEREAS, Posts located in sparsely populated areas do not have 
the available populations to replace these members; and
     ``WHEREAS, the current system has an adverse effect on Posts who 
work diligently in the months of July and August to increase their 
membership only to find they have a deficit in September;
     ``NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars 
of the United States, that when the Life Member deaths are removed from 
a Post's rolls in September of each year, these totals also be removed 
from the Post's starting total membership.''
     That is submitted by the Department of California.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you.
     COMRADE RICHARD PIGNONE (Post 3173 - California):  Thank you.  My 
comrades, you will remember last year how 212 came up, and it allows to 
rectify at the beginning of the membership year.  We are starting off 
with the same amount that we ended the previous year. Then in September, 
what comes along is the taking away of these deceased members.
     When the Commander, Post Commanders, District Commanders think they 
are on the rise, all of a sudden they are hit with the taking away of 
these members.  Therefore, it is very hard to overcome at the beginning 
of the year, which you have worked so hard in order to bring your 
membership up and have a good start.
     The Life Membership is the basis of all membership. With the higher 
members in the Life category, each Post Commander, District Commander, 
Department Commander and the National Commanders at the top are the big 
guns in membership. That will take away these deceased Life Members and 
no way in the world can you bring them back.
     What happens is you lose them and you are expected to go out and 
get two for every one you lose.  That is one of the bad features of 
that. Not only that, but we will continue to lose each year.  We will 
lose in the membership.  The Post Commander doesn't have the same 
enthusiasm if he was close to being the head, the District Commander, 
the same thing, the Department Commander.
     Everybody is trying harder to do it, but the Life Members being 
taken away certainly hurts you. I believe, my comrades, that our 
membership year should start by taking away the deceased Life Members so 
that everybody has a fair shake at making 100 percent, and then we will 
not always show a deficit.
     We are on a decline, my comrades.  We don't want to show that we 
are in a decline.  We want the opportunity to bring in more members.  
Thank you all very much.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you.
     Microphone No. 2.
     COMRADE JOHN PETERS (Post 4809 - Virginia):  This morning at the 
All-American breakfast we discussed continuation of the All-American 
Program.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  John, right now we are on Resolution 
212.  The discussion now is on Resolution 212.
     COMRADE JOHN PETERS (Post 4809 - Virginia):  Excuse me.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  That is okay.  Do I have any other 
discussion on Resolution 212?
     Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE GLEN GARDNER (Post 3359 - Texas):  Comrade Commander-in-
Chief, Glen Gardner, Jr., a delegate from Post 3359, Garland, Texas.  
This resolution is a moot point.  The membership contest quotas for 
Posts are no longer set by the National Organization.
     There are no national membership programs. It is up to the 
department.  We, in the Department of Texas, have subtracted from our 
Posts the deceased members.  If they want to do that, let them do that.  
It is up to the leadership of each Department to decide what the quota 
is for their Posts, for their Districts for contest purposes for the 
upcoming year.  It is no longer a national issue, anyway.  Thank you, 
Commander-in-Chief.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE TIGER MILLER (Post 1059 - Illinois):  Comrade Commander-in-
Chief, I agree with him.  Since this is going to be a state program, how 
about the All-American Department Commanders?  If we say he is All-
American, are you going to accept him?
     You are going to say no.  I don't have to say this, that and the 
other thing.  I don't believe in it that way.  I believe in taking away 
if you don't pay.  That is my belief, and I honestly feel that it will 
be better for everyone.  Thank you.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Any further discussion on the motion?  
Any further discussion?  Hearing none, we will call for a vote.  The 
motion is to adopt Resolution 212.  All those in favor of adopting 
Resolution 212 will signify by saying ``aye''; all those opposed 
``nay''.  The motion is defeated.
     We are now ready for Resolution 211.
     Microphone No. 2.
     In order for it to come on the floor, you need to make a motion to 
adopt a resolution.
     COMRADE JOHN PETERS (Post 4809 - Virginia):  I make a motion that 
we adopt Resolution 211.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Do we have a second to that motion?
     Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE TIGER MILLER (Post 1059 - Illinois):  Tiger Miller, Post 
1059, Illinois, seconds the motion.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion has been made and duly 
seconded to adopt Resolution 211.
     Mr. Chairman.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF CRAMER:  Commander-in-Chief, do you wish me 
to read the resolution?
     COMRADE JOHN PETERS (Post 4809 - Virginia):  Yes.  We don't know 
what it says.  We would like to have it read.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF CRAMER:  I will read the resolution and I 
will read the argument.
     ``WHEREAS, membership is the life blood of any organization 
including the VFW; and
     ``WHEREAS, membership in the VFW is bolstered by numerous 
incentives; and
     ``WHEREAS, All-American status has been not only a tradition, but 
also an effective motivation for individuals as well as Posts, Districts 
and Department membership; and
     ``WHEREAS, it may be appropriate to revise the All-American 
eligibility requirements; and
     ``WHEREAS, it is recognized that a need is identified to reduce 
expenditures of the All-American program;
     ``NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars 
of the United States, that the All-American Program be continued at 
Post, District and Department levels; and
     ``BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this program be modified to 
strengthen the eligibility requirements; and
     ``BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, in order to conserve funds the Kansas 
City trip and other similar reward trips be eliminated.''
     The reason we rejected the All-American Program that was formed, as 
it was formally conducted, was thought to serve a useful purpose in 
attracting membership and encouraging recruitment of members.  However, 
its effectiveness dwindled. Some even argue that the quotas were set too 
low and so many award winners that the award lost its significance.
     In addition, they led to the buying of annual members, which is an 
ineffective use of resources and puts members on the rolls that have no 
identity with the VFW or its goals and purposes. The VFW National 
Membership Program is the prerogative of the Commander-in-Chief.
     The new Membership Program, as established next year by the Senior 
Vice Commander-in-Chief, is designed to place the authority of the 
conduct of the membership programs into the Departments. The National 
Organization is no longer going to dictate by way of award programs, 
including the All-American Program as it formerly existed, how and in 
what manner the Departments will conduct the membership programs.
     The Departments are great to determine what incentives work best in 
that Department.  If the Department determines that recognition similar 
to the recognition given to All-Americans under the previous Department 
worked for that Department, then the Department can initiate a program.
     The Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief recognizes that the All-American 
Program was initially designed to award only the best of the best, made 
the decision to modify eligibility for All-American so that only 
Department Commanders, and only those Department Commanders meeting 
certain qualifications in terms of Life Membership and new and 
reinstated members were truly All-Americans.
     If a Department in connection with its own Department Membership 
Program wants to initiate a similar plan to the All-American Program for 
its Posts and Districts, it is free to do so.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Microphone No. 2.
     COMRADE JOHN PETERS (Post 4809 - Virginia):  The All-American 
Program has worked very well in Virginia as one of the best incentives 
of bringing in new members.  We request this morning and request again, 
Commander-in-Chief, to reconsider this All-American Program and put it 
back in the place, or continue it in place as it is.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 3.
     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF NIER:  Comrade Commander-in-Chief, 
Jim Nier, Post 8919, the Department of  Texas.  I was at the All-
American breakfast this morning.  I listened intently to what the 
members of that delegation said at that breakfast.  I have listened here 
this morning.
     I have consulted with the membership people at National and I have 
consulted with the Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief.  I want to tell you 
we have reconsidered and there will be one All-American Post Commander 
in each Department.  There will be one All-American District Commander 
in each Department, and there will be one All-American Commander.
     The criteria will say it is now a national program still, but the 
Departments will pick that District and Post Commander to be All-
American.  This will be back in place, not necessarily the same 
eligibility criteria how they were selected.  The Department will 
determine that.
     There will be an All-American Post Commander and an  All-American 
District Commander, and an All-American Department Commander from every 
Department.  Thank you.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you.
     The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE TIGER MILLER (Post 1059 - Illinois):  Let me say I was 
sadly disappointed when I heard they were going to take the All-American 
Program away.  I think that it is a grand champion mistake if it is 
taken away.  Let me say I was up there at that breakfast this morning.
     In order to make the All-American this year, I personally knocked 
on 322 doors to make that.  I did it the right way.  There may be some 
wrong ways to do it, but if they put this program in force they have got 
available to the Departments and Districts, it will work.
     Illinois has 19 Districts and only one?  Maybe there are three or 
four that deserve it.  And only one Post?  We have got 500 in Illinois.  
I don't think that is right.  I think the program ought to go back and 
be reinstated as it says here in this resolution.  Therefore, I move 
that we adopt No. 211. 
     Thank you, Commander.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  You are welcome. Any further discussion 
on that question?  Anything further on the question?
     The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE JAMES SHANE (Post 2451 - Texas):  Comrade Commander-in-
Chief, we are a relatively small Post.  We have only got two hundred 
some odd folks.  It is absolutely inconceivable that we would be able to 
do battle with the likes of our Department Commander's home Post that 
has some 2,000 to 3,000 folks in it.
     It is the only realistic thing for the young Posts and the smaller 
Posts to have an opportunity to look toward for recognition and for 
achievement.  So it is recommended that the program should remain in 
effect as it stands.  Otherwise, the emphasis on membership as well as 
other program requirements, the young small Posts don't have a shot at 
trying to make that particular goal. 
     If there is no incentive, the problem is that the membership will 
seriously decline and the only Posts that will be in the recognition 
side of the house are the larger facilities and the larger 
organizations. Therefore, we are asking that the program be available 
and stand so that the young Posts and the smaller Posts can have equal 
footing with respect to their membership drives.
     It is just as important for the National program and the State 
programs or Department programs and the District programs that small 
Posts increase their numbers as well as larger installations and the 
larger facilities.  So, we recommend that it remain as it is so that we, 
the smaller organizations, have an opportunity to look forward to 
something as great as this All-American Program is.  I thank you for 
your time, sir.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you.
     Microphone No. 2.
     COMRADE JEROME HENZE (Post 9213 - Texas):  I concur with our 
incoming National Commander Jim Nier. I think that he has the 
intelligence to run this program, and I think that we leave it up to our 
State Departments.  If we go by a percentage of increase, a Post with 50 
members that goes to 100 members, would have a 100-percent increase, and 
a Post with 2,000 must go to 4,000 in order to match it.
     I think we go by percentage.  I think I speak for this proposal 
that the incoming Commander is making.  Thank you.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Anything further? 
     The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 3.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF ALLEN KENT (Post 9972 -  Arizona):  Comrade 
Commander-in-Chief, Gunner Kent, delegate from Post 9972, Sierra Vista, 
Arizona.  I don't see anything wrong with the program the way the 
incoming Commander-in-Chief wants to have it.
     It is no different than the program we used to have.  We have made 
one All-American Post, one All-American District and one All-American 
Department Commander.  It wasn't until the `80s that this was changed.  
The All-American Program is the best of the best.
     It doesn't matter what your Post size is, you are going to qualify 
just like the big Post if you do the work out there.  All the incoming 
Commander-in-Chief is doing is he is saying I am going back to pick the 
cream of the crop, and that is all that is going to get the hat.
     He is saying that I am not going to continue to give All-Americans 
out just arbitrarily, and in some cases, because somebody has a fat 
wallet.  That is all the incoming Commander-in-Chief is going to do.  
Thank you, Commander-in-Chief.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Microphone No. 2.
     COMRADE BENNY BACHAND (Post 4287 - Florida):  Comrade Commander-in-
Chief, Benny Bachand, Post 4287, Orlando, Florida. For the past 20 
years, I have had the opportunity to see the All-American Program 
develop from a National perspective. I have been fortunate to be the 
Membership Director for nine and one-half years.
     I have seen that it always has been the prerogative of every 
incoming Commander-in-Chief to change programs as he has seen fit, and 
most of our Commanders-in-Chief have done so We have done extensive 
research in this area of how the All-American does or does not benefit 
the membership program in this organization.
     Quite honestly, it is a myth, ladies and gentlemen, to think that 
the All-American Program will, in fact, enhance the membership of this 
organization.  Statistically, it is not true.  Additionally, over 35 
percent of our All-American Commanders come from only four or five 
Departments.
     I have heard time and time again from most of our incoming 
Department Commanders that the All-American Program in the past is not 
fair, and because we could not justify the quotas across the board.  
Many of our Posts and Districts are in small rural areas and they could 
not have the sustaining type of growth that was necessary.
     So I would urge this delegation to defeat the continuation of the 
All-American Program and give the Senior  Vice Commander-in-Chief the 
same rights that any other Commander-in-Chief has in determining his own 
membership program.  Thank you.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Microphone No. 2.
     COMRADE DANA HUSSEY (Post 4485 - New Hampshire):  Comrade 
Commander-in-Chief, Dana Hussey, Post 4485, New Hampshire, and also the 
Department Commander.  I also rise to defeat this resolution. The reason 
is that the 100-percent part is taken away and somebody says no 
incentive now to go out and do the work.
     The incentive is the life blood of our organization. I think that 
the Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief has bent over backwards to make a 
concession he didn't have to make. I think that people will want the 
All-American hats, people will still want to purchase that hat.
     I think that is our price to pay.  You will get some unrealistic 
numbers.  I intend to get All-American Department Commander and All-
American Department.  I am going to do it.  I am not going to buy 
anything.  I think that we should consider this for the good of the 
organization.
      COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Microphone No. 2.
      COMRADE LAUREL PHIPPS (Post 839 - Iowa):  Comrade Commander-in-
Chief, I don't know if this is a good program, and none of us will know 
until we try it.  If we start jockeying it around with three months in 
the year on the program, and if we start moving around this now, we 
don't know what we will have.  Let's give it a chance to work.  If it 
doesn't work, we can change it next year.  Thank you.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Microphone No. 2.
     JUNIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF MOON:  Comrade Commander-in-Chief, 
John Moon, Post 2873, Grover Hill, Ohio.  I stand in total support of 
Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief Jim Nier's program.  I urge the rejection 
of this resolution, and I move the question.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion has been made to move the 
question.  Do I hear a second?
     COMRADE JOHN WARNER (Post 8552 - California):  I second the motion.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion has been moved and seconded.  
All those in favor will signify by saying ``aye''; all those opposed 
``nay''.  The ``ayes'' have it.  We will move the question.  
     The motion on the floor now is to adopt Resolution No. 211.  All 
those in favor will signify by saying ``aye''; all those opposed 
``nay''.  The motion is defeated.
     Next is Resolution No. 213.
     Microphone No. 3.
     COMRADE ORLIN JACKSON (Post 433 - Minnesota):  I move the adoption 
of Resolution No. 213.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion has been made to adopt 
Resolution 213.  Do I hear a second?
     COMRADE MICHAEL LABOVITCH (Post 1085 - Minnesota):  I second the 
motion.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion has been made and seconded to 
adopt Resolution No. 213.  I will call on the Chairman first.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF CRAMER:  Commander-in-Chief and Comrades, 
Resolution 213 reads as follows:
     ``WHEREAS, the rules governing VFW meetings are found in Demeter's 
Manual; and
     ``WHEREAS, the rules that govern the National Convention are of 
great importance to the Convention delegates; and
     ``WHEREAS, the National Convention delegates wish to follow the 
rules of the National Convention;
     ``NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars 
of the United States, that the Convention Rules governing National 
Conventions, and voted on at the beginning  of the National Convention, 
be made available to the delegates upon registration and be included in 
the `Committee Assignment and Schedule of Resolutions' booklet.''
     This resolution was offered by the Department of Minnesota.  Let me 
read to you the Committee's reason for recommending rejection.  The 
Convention Rules are not established until the Convention Rules 
Committee meets and the Convention adopts the rules.
     That occurs after the Convention convenes and most of the delegates 
have been registered.  It cannot be included in the ``Committee 
Assignment and Schedule of Resolutions'' booklet, because it is printed 
in advance of our Convention.  Thus, there is not any way that the rules 
can be made available in the ways suggested by this resolution.
     Copies of the Convention Rules, as recommended by the Convention 
Rules Committee and approved by the Convention, can be posted outside 
the meeting area.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Microphone No. 3.
     COMRADE ORLIN JACKSON (Post 433 - Minnesota):  Commander-in-Chief, 
I met with the Rules Committee this year, and they had the same rules 
this year as they had last year.  There were no changes except for the 
dates and time.  They told me that the prior rules have been available 
from previous years.  Would it be possible that the previous year's 
rules be included in the white booklet on resolutions?
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  I am sure that we could put it in there. 
The problem we would have is there is no guarantee that the previous 
year's rules will be the same rules for the present year.  If they 
weren't, then we would have created a great deal of confusion.
     COMRADE ORLIN JACKSON (Post 433 - Minnesota):  Possibly, the rules 
that would not be included could be stricken out by the delegates.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Well, I think that we are still 
wandering around in the same forest here.  The rules are not known until 
they are adopted by the Convention.  We don't know what the rules are.  
We can assume they are going to be the same.
     Let me go to Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE JOHN SENK (Post 335 - New Jersey):  Comrade Commander-in-
Chief, to print the previous Convention's Rules in the ``Committee 
Assignment and Schedule of Resolutions'' booklet would be an expensive 
proposition and would have no bearing on this Convention whatsoever.
     Once the rules are adopted by the Convention, we can have those 
rules printed here and posted outside and made available to anyone that 
may want them.  I recommend rejection of this resolution.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Microphone No. 3.
     ADJUTANT GENERAL RIVERS:  Thank you, Commander-in-Chief.  I am 
Larry Rivers, a delegate from Post 1736, Louisiana.  My comrades, I will 
give you an example.  We had a vote yesterday, a roll call vote.  For us 
to prepare and print up the rosters to have that roll call vote cost us 
$1,013.
     That was to print them up so we could distribute them.  What we are 
talking about here are expensive propositions. If we print up rules we 
adopted last year that turn out to be changed by this body who makes 
that decision, we have spent a heck of a lot of your money on things 
that really are not any good.
     What we would prefer to do is once the Committee adopts those 
rules, print up a sufficient number and leave them laying on the table 
in the Adjutant General's Office for those who are concerned and want a 
copy to stop by and pick them up, just as you do with many other things 
that come from this Convention.
     That is the logical way to do it.  It is the most cost effective 
way to do it, and that is the process we intend to implement beginning 
next year.  I would urge you to reject this resolution.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 2.
     COMRADE EUGENE WARDEN (Post 8552 - Texas):  I rise in opposition to 
the acceptance of this resolution. I say reject this based on the 
information that the Committee has given us and what you have heard on 
the floor.  I move at this time for the question.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion has been made to move for the 
question.  Do I have a second on the motion?  Do I have a second on the 
motion?
     COMRADE GLEN GARDNER (Post 3359 - Texas):  I second the motion.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion has been made and seconded to 
move the question.  All those in favor will signify by saying ``aye''; 
all those opposed.  The ``ayes'' have it.
     The motion is on the floor to adopt Resolution 213.  All those in 
favor will signify by saying ``aye''; all those opposed ``nay''. The 
motion is defeated.  The Chair was not in doubt on that one.
     Next is Resolution No. 214.
     The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 3.  You need to make a motion 
to adopt.
     COMRADE DONALD HEUER (Post 9433 - Minnesota):  I move adoption of 
Resolution No. 214.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  I have a motion on the floor to adopt 
Resolution No. 214.  Do I have a second to the motion?
     COMRADE MICHAEL LABOVITCH (Post 1085 - Minnesota):  I second the 
motion.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion has been made and seconded 
that we adopt Resolution 214.
     We will now call on the Chairman.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF CRAMER:  Commander-in-Chief and delegates 
to this Convention, Resolution No. 214 reads as follows:
     ``WHEREAS, members of the Germane Committee are responsible to make 
recommendations to the Delegates at the National Convention; and
     ``WHEREAS, the Committee members should be able to hear the 
information concerning the resolutions that may be readily available; 
and
     ``WHEREAS, some Chairmen have prevented a Department from speaking 
to the Resolution Committee concerning the Department's Resolution(s);
     ``NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars 
of the United States, that we propose a rule which shall permit any 
Department submitting a resolution at the National Convention, to any 
Committee, be present to answer questions and testify, if necessary, on 
any and all matters concerning said resolution.''
     This was submitted by the Department of Minnesota.
     The Committee's recommendation for rejection is as follows:
     The resolution is directed at some Committee Chairmen. The 
Committee Chairmen are appointed by the Commander-in-Chief and that 
appointment suggests that the Commander-in-Chief has evidence that that 
Chairman will conduct the meeting in the best interest of all members.
     The Chairman should be left to decide who and in what manner that 
non-members of the Committee will be heard.  This resolution, if 
adopted, permits the proponents of resolutions special privilege not 
afforded other members who are not members of the Committee.
     Why should they be heard in Committee and persons who oppose the 
resolution not be heard?  They may, likewise, be able to answer 
questions and testify concerning the resolutions but won't be heard.  
That isn't fair.  In any event, almost all the Departments have 
representation on all Committees.
     I might add that one individual was arguing this resolution or 
giving us his ideas on the resolution was not a member of the Committee, 
and we did allow him to speak.  Since I have been coming to Conventions 
for about the last 24 years, I have not heard anyone denied of his or 
her privilege to speak in any Committee meeting regardless if they were 
a member or not.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 3.
     COMRADE DONALD HEUER (Post 9433 - Minnesota):  Thank you, 
Commander-in-Chief.  In Dallas, Texas, three years ago at the By-Laws 
Committee meeting, the Chairman said only Committee members would be 
allowed to speak.  One of our Departments had nine resolutions in that 
Committee.
     That Department was not represented on that Committee and, 
therefore, those nine resolutions had no one to speak for them.  The 
following year in the By-Laws Committee meeting, the chairman also 
stated that the only people allowed to speak would be those people on 
the Committee.
     This resolution is designed to ensure that there can be a proponent 
allowed to speak on the resolution, for instance.  It is not the intent 
of the Commander-in-Chief this year, who sent a letter out, as well as 
Commanders-in-Chief in the previous years, to the Committee that he 
wished they would diligently go through the resolutions and deliberate 
on them.
     But if the proponent is not allowed to speak, how can the Committee 
in good faith make the correct decision?  Thank you, Commander.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Anything further on the question?  
Anything further on the question?  Hearing nothing further, we will call 
for a vote.  All those in favor of adopting Resolution 214 will signify 
by saying ``aye''; all those opposed ``nay''.  The motion is defeated.
     Resolution No. 215.
     The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 3.
     COMRADE DONALD HEUER (Post 9433 - Minnesota):  I move adoption of 
Resolution No. 215.
     COMRADE MICHAEL LABOVITCH (Post 1085 - Minnesota):  I second the 
motion.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion has been made and seconded to 
adopt Resolution 215.  I will call for the Chairman to report.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF CRAMER:  Thank you, Commander.  Delegates 
to this Convention, Resolution No. 215 reads as follows:
     ``WHEREAS, resolutions to the By-Laws, Rules, Ritual and Manual of 
Procedure may contain some change in the wording of the By-Laws, Rules, 
Ritual or Manual of Procedure already in place; and
     ``WHEREAS, delegates to the appropriate Convention may not be aware 
of the proposed change and why the change is proposed; and
     ``WHEREAS, the proposed deletions are now designated as to word, 
line, sentence, or paragraph, et cetera;
     ``NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars 
of the United States, when proposed resolutions to the By-Laws, Rules, 
Ritual, or Manual of Procedure of the  Veterans of Foreign Wars of the 
United States changes the wording of the By-Laws, Rules, Ritual or 
Manual of Procedure already in place, the booklet of `Proposed 
Amendments to the National By-Laws,' should include both the old and the 
new wording.''
     This has been submitted by the Department of Minnesota.
     The reason that the Committee recommended rejection of this 
resolution, this proposal would not only apply to those  changes 
proposed by the National By-Laws Review Committee but to amendments 
proposed by the Department Conventions. It would be very difficult for 
those Departments to get By-Law Amendments into that format.
     In any event, the format suggested by this proposal can very often 
be more confusing and ambiguous, because members are not sure what is in 
and what is out in the proposed amendment.  The procedure at least makes 
that clear.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 3.
     COMRADE DONALD HEUER (Post 9433 - Minnesota):  Comrade Commander-
in-Chief, I propose the present format does not make it clear.  What is 
actually taken out, except for a word or a sentence or a paragraph, 
those words are not printed out.  That is what this resolution is 
designed to take care of.
     It is not the intent that the proposed resolutions to the By-Laws, 
that the whole wording has to be included from the Department's as the 
Chairman indicated.  The Departments would write their resolutions the 
same way as they have in the past, and the National Organization can 
print in the words that are printed into the By-Law Book and the Manual 
of Procedure and Ritual.
     The thought is that the first time any delegate, and I should not 
say any delegate, but most delegates will know what the resolutions are 
is at the time they come to the Convention. They will be given the 
proposed resolution booklet.  This year it is the yellow one.
     They will see the resolutions as printed, but they will not have 
any idea what the old resolutions are, what the old wording is unless 
they have the by-law book in their hand. For the most part, the 
delegates don't come here with the by-laws book with them.
     One of the problems is that the by-laws are probably the most 
important part of the changes in their organization.  All by-law changes 
have to come before the Convention floor. It is not so for the Manual of 
Procedure, as you can well attest by the Committee.
     The Manual of Procedure today still says that six dollars will be 
your delegate fee.  It is important for the delegates to know what the 
by-laws are and what is going to be changed. I feel that is of vital 
importance. I certainly would like to see these Committees attended by 
more members of this organization to be informed on what the resolutions 
actually state.
     Unless you are at the Committee meetings, you don't hear the 
resolutions and that has caused a lot of problems on the Convention 
floor.  That is about all I have to say, Commander.  Thank you very 
much.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you.  Anything further on the 
question?  Anything further on the question? Hearing none, we will put 
it to a vote.  All those in favor of adopting Resolution 215 will 
signify by saying ``aye''; all those opposed ``nay''.  The motion is 
defeated.
     There being no further business for this Committee, I will now 
discharge the Chairman and his Committee with the thanks of the 
Convention for a job well done.  

               PRESENTATION OF THE J. EDGAR HOOVER AWARD,
                        GOLD MEDAL AND CITATION

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Ladies and gentlemen, I am pleased to 
present the J. Edgar Hoover Award for outstanding service in the field 
of law enforcement to three outstanding Police Officers from the City of 
Plantation, Florida: Detective James P. O'Hara, Police Office Joseph A. 
Alu, Sr., and Police Officer Robin Massey.
     These police officers are truly representative of the dedicated men 
and women who serve our communities and the nation in the field of law 
enforcement.
     On July 25, 1995, Officer Alu was called to a hostage situation at 
a residence.  Detective O'Hara and Office Massey also responded to the 
call.  The boyfriend of a mother of three children barricaded himself at 
the woman's residence with a can of gasoline and a machete.
     He locked the mother, her three children and himself in the bedroom 
and threatened to kill them all.  The officers on the scene, Robin 
Massey, Jim O'Hara and Joe Alu, got the mother out of the residence and 
were talking to her trying to get more information on the situation 
inside when one child, an 11-year-old girl, broke free and came running 
out the front  door screaming, ``He's doing it now.''
     All three officers knowing the life-threatening risk involved, 
entered the house in an attempt to save the other two children.  As they 
entered the room, the boyfriend, having  already doused the children, 
girls ages 16 and 14, with gasoline, poured gasoline on Officers O'Hara 
and Alu and ignited it resulting in an immediate explosion and fire.  
The boyfriend and two girls were killed and the officers were trapped in 
the room.
     Officer Massey managed to kick open the bedroom door from outside 
the room, guiding Officer Alu to the outside door.  She returned and 
dragged Detective O'Hara by the legs to safety.  O'Hara suffered burns 
covering 79 percent of his body. He continues to undergo rehabilitation 
treatment.
     Officer Alu suffered burns over 29 percent of his body.  The 
actions of O'Hara, Alu and Massey are in keeping with the finest 
traditions of the law enforcement profession.
     I am honored to present the 1996 VFW J. Edgar Hoover Award to these 
outstanding law enforcement officers.  Officer Robin Massey is unable to 
attend.  However, Jackie Eagle will accept the award on her behalf.  
Detective Jim O'Hara has just recently been released from the hospital 
and Ken Porio will accept the award on his behalf.  Officer Alu is here 
in person to accept his award.
     ``Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, J. Edgar Hoover 
Award, Gold Medal and Citation, presented to Joseph A. Alu, Sr.
     ``In special recognition of his outstanding service, 
professionalism, bravery and knowledge in the field of law enforcement 
which has earned for him the respect of his peers and the admiration of 
the citizens of Plantation, Florida.
     ``In Witness Whereof, we have hereunto set our hands and official 
seal of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, this 21st day 
of August, 1996.''  This has been approved by the National Council of 
Administration and signed by Paul A. Spera, Commander-in-Chief, and 
Larry W. Rivers, Adjutant General.
     We have duplicate awards for each of the other two  recipients.  
Officer Alu, congratulations.
     Accepting for James O'Hara is his brother and sister-in-law.  
Accepting for Robin Massey is her mom.

                  RESPONSE - OFFICER JOSEPH ALU, SR.

     MR. JOSEPH ALU:  Well, I am Officer Alu.  I would like to thank the 
Veterans of Foreign Wars for honoring the three of us with this award.  
I feel real close to the Florida  Veterans of Foreign Wars and the 
National Veterans of Foreign Wars.  We did receive the award in Florida 
also.
     Although we don't wear the same hats, we all do similar type jobs.  
All of you are heroes to us because you protect our country and keep us 
safe.  What we do is to protect the citizens here in the United States.  
We really would like to thank you all for honoring us with this award.  
Thank you.


                         RESPONSE - MR. KEN PORIO

     MR. PORIO:  Good morning.  I am honored to be here today to accept 
this award in behalf of my brother-in-law James O'Hara.  I would just 
like to say that this is a big honor to us because this award is given 
by heroes for a hero.  I personally would like to thank you for having 
me come up here. I am honored.
     I would just like to say to all of you, you have been a storybook 
hero to me, all of you.  That is true for all of you men and women.  You 
are heroes to all of us.  I speak on behalf of the generation that I 
feel has forgotten you.
     I would just like to say to my family that when we put out the 
American flag it is not a free weekend or a day off, it is not a picnic, 
it is a remembrance of all of you, those who have gone before us, and 
you here today I want to thank you for everything that you have done for 
this great country of ours.
     I would ask you to call back to arms not with weapons but in your 
voice so we can change laws to stop protecting the criminals and start 
protecting the innocent Americans that are victimized day in and day 
out.  I am going to cut this short, but you guys still have a hell of a 
lot of fight in you.  I saw it last night.  I couldn't keep up with most 
of you.
     So I ask you to get involved in these laws. Make these politicians 
answer to you, because I pray to God that another officer never has to 
come up here and deal with this kind of tragedy.  I lived with it in the 
Intensive Care over eight months watching my brother-in-law.
     I would like to thank you very much for inviting me.  May God bless 
you and God bless America.

                      RESPONSE - MS. JACKIE EAGLE

     MS. EAGLE:  I just wanted to say that I am deeply honored and very 
proud to accept this award on behalf of my daughter, Officer Robin Eagle 
Massey.  She regrets she wasn't able to be here with you today.  On her 
behalf, I want to thank, you most sincerely for this award.
     It is a great honor, a great, great honor.  We have always looked 
up to the VFW and this award is special because it comes from you.  
Thank you very much.

               PRESENTATION OF VFW EMERGENCY SERVICES AWARD,
                         GOLD MEDAL AND CITATION

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Annually, the Veterans of Foreign Wars 
presents its Emergency Services Award to an individual for outstanding 
contributions to the community in the field of Emergency Services.
     This year we are pleased to present the VFW Emergency Services 
Award to a man who has dedicated his life to serving the community.
     Fire Lieutenant Michael Peery began his career as a volunteer fire 
fighter in his hometown of Sylvania, Ohio, in 1966.  In 1979, he joined 
the Ottawa Hills Fire Department and later transferred to the Columbus 
Fire Department. Lieutenant Peery's service to his community and his 
profession have always been distinguished.
     On November 29, 1984, in the early morning hours, Acting Lieutenant 
Peery responded to a fire alarm at a residence in which children were 
believed to be trapped. Entering the building which was totally engulfed 
in flames, he searched for a trapped four-year-old child which he found 
hiding in one of the bedrooms.
     Lieutenant Peery picked up the child and felt his way through the 
heavy smoke to a window.  With first and second-degree burns to the neck 
and ears, he smashed out the window with his helmet and held the child 
outside the burning building while other fire fighters placed a ladder 
at the window.
     Lieutenant Peery gallantly performed an outstanding act which was 
clearly beyond the call of duty.
     When not on duty he is active in his community, particularly in the 
scouting program.  Lieutenant Peery's deeds, dedication and experience 
in the field of fire fighting and emergency services over the past 27 
years exemplify the deeds and sacrifices of fire fighters and EMT's 
across the nation.
     Please welcome Fire Lieutenant Michael P. Peery, the 1996 recipient 
of the VFW Emergency Services Award winner.
     ``Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Emergency Services 
Award, Gold Medal and Citation presented to Michael P. Peery.
     ``In special recognition of his distinguished career spanning 17 
years of exceptional service as a fire fighter in the cities of Ottawa 
Hills and Columbus, Ohio, and in sincere appreciation for his selfless 
and dedicated service protecting life and property as evidenced by his 
heroic actions to enter a building, totally engulfed in flames, to 
search for an ultimately rescuing a four-year-old child, thereby, 
exemplifying the deeds and sacrifices of fire fighters across the 
nation.
     ``In Witness Whereof, we have hereunto set our hands and the 
official seal of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, this 
21st day of August, 1996.'' This has been approved by the National 
Council of Administration and signed by Paul A. Spera, Commander-in-
Chief, and Larry W. Rivers, Adjutant General. 
     Congratulations Lieutenant Peery.


                RESPONSE - LIEUTENANT MICHAEL P. PEERY

     MR. PEERY:  This is a tough act to follow the police officers.  
Good morning.  Speaking after these three persons, Generals, President 
and Vice-President candidates, it is an honor.  I feel humble to be up 
here.  To be up here receiving  this fantastic award from the VFW is 
truly a great moment in my life.  I am contemplating retirement, so 
perhaps this will be the last great moment.
     First of all, I would like to thank all of you, the great heroes of 
America.  Last year, I had the occasion to get the State Award from 
Ohio, and I was fortunate enough to be presented it on the 50th 
Anniversary of World War II.  I got a chance there to congratulate and 
thank all the World War II veterans for what they did for the United 
States.
     This is the 51st Anniversary, but thanks again.  We wouldn't be 
here without you.  I would like to also thank the fire fighters of VFW 
Post 3426 of Columbus, Ohio.  A special thanks to Ron Kaskow, who 
submitted me for this award.  Without Ron, I wouldn't be up here.  Thank 
you, Ron.
     I would like to thank my wife, Esther, my son, Andrew, and daughter 
Allison, for being there during the hard times and sharing in the good 
times.  They are my inspiration. It takes a special wife to be a fire 
fighter's wife.  She treats minor injuries, the sprains, the strains and 
burns, and she did this in the hospital.
     The worst part of being a wife of a fire fighter is listening to 
the news when her husband is at work and hearing that a fire fighter is 
missing, presumed dead in a fire, and her husband is with the company.  
After a while in listening to the news on my duty days, which I can 
understand and where other fire fighters can understand, she is a 
special woman, the wife of a fire fighter.  Thank you, honey.
     Fire fighter's kids are also special.  When you work your work 
shift, which consists of a 24-hour day, you miss a lot of school 
activities, sports events, scouting activities and so forth.  It is hard 
for some of the other kids to comprehend why your dad is not with you 
running the final track meeting of the year or receiving a scout award.
     As they say, it goes with the job.  The fire fighter's kids 
understands that.  My son, Andrew, is 15 and does well in school.  He is 
a Senior Patrol Leader of his Boy Scout troop of 60 boys, and is working 
on his last two merit badges towards his Eagle Scout Award, and he is 
involved in his high school cross country.  His future plans include 
applying for the Air Force Academy.  He is a special young man.  Thank 
you, son.
     My daughter, Allison, is 14.  She, too, does good in school and was 
a Girl Scout, until her troop was disbanded, and she runs in cross 
country and track for her school.  She isn't certain about her military 
service at this time, but I am sure there is something in it.  She is a 
special young lady.  Thank you, Ally.
     My sister is also here.  She is a retired school teacher from the 
City of Toledo, Ohio.  I guess I should thank her for not killing me 
when we were growing up and for her support through the years.  Thank 
you, Aunt Gail.
     I was very fortunate when I was growing up to have had the best 
father and mother in the whole world.  Through World War II, my mother 
was an air service pilot and also taught future naval pilots ground 
school.  My father suffered a severe leg injury in high school and was 
not allowed to serve in the military.
     After high school, he took a civilian job with the government.  He 
also watched my sister while my mother was at  war.  I guess he was 
about 50 years ahead of his time.  At the awards ceremony for my mom in 
1988, I didn't get a chance to say thank you to the program.

     Between the time I earned the Columbus Fire Department Medal of 
Honor and the awards ceremony for that medal, my mother and father both 
passed away.  I never got a chance to thank them.  So, thanks mom and 
dad.  This one is for you.  Thank you, VFW, and God bless you and God 
bless the USA. Thank  you all very much.

                 INTRODUCTION OF PRESIDENT JAMES L. BRAZEE,
                      VIETNAM VETERANS OF AMERICA, INC.

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  James L. Brazee, Jr., is the National 
President of Vietnam Veterans of America, Inc., the nation's only 
congressionally-chartered organization exclusively dedicated to Vietnam-
era veterans and their families.
     Born in California, Brazee was raised in Chicago, Illinois. He 
graduated from New Trier Township High School and received his Bachelor 
of Arts degree in Government and International Relations from the 
University of Notre Dame in 1965.
     In 1968, he received a Juris Doctorate degree from Chicago-Kent 
College of Law.  Following graduation, Brazee joined the U.S. Army and 
served in Vietnam in 1972.  After completion of his military service, 
Brazee moved to Lafayette, Louisiana, where he became a leader in 
community-service programs.
     He served on the Mayor's Task Force for Vision Lafayette and was 
Chair of the Committee for Services to the Elderly and Chronically 
Disadvantaged.  In addition, Brazee served as a Judge Advocate for the 
Department of Louisiana in the American Legion, from 1986-'90, and 
taught a course on legal rights at the University of Southwestern 
Louisiana.
     In early 1986, Brazee joined the Lafayette, Louisiana, chapter of 
Vietnam Veterans of America, where he served as Chair of the Membership 
and President of the Louisiana State Council.  In 1989, he was elected 
Vice-President of VVA.
     Brazee was elected to the office of National President by a three 
to one margin at the August, 1991, National Convention in San Francisco, 
California, and was re-elected in 1993.  Brazee's 1995 election was for 
an unprecedented third term as National President.
     Brazee is engaged in the private practice of law and lives with his 
family in Lafayette, Louisiana.  Please welcome VVA National President, 
James Brazee.

                     ADDRESS - MR. JAMES L. BRAZEE, JR.

     COMRADE JAMES BRAZEE:  Good morning.  I can't tell you what a 
pleasure it is to be here with you today and bring you greetings on 
behalf of the Vietnam Veterans of America.  As you may know, the Vietnam 
Veterans of America is the only congressionally-chartered National 
Veterans Organization dealing exclusively with the needs of the Vietnam 
veterans and their families.
     The reason I am here is to bring thanks to the VFW, because within 
the last few months our two organizations have begun to work together on 
two very important issues. By working together, veterans organizations 
with veterans organizations, we can accomplish so much more than we can 
do individually.
     The two programs we are working on, one of those is the still 
unanswered question of what happened to our POW-MIA's as a result of the 
Vietnam War?  Did we leave live Americans behind?  If so, what happened 
to them?  What about accounting for those that are still missing in 
action?
     Recently, the VFW began your POW-MIA initiative. The Vietnam 
Veterans of America have their own veterans' initiative, similar 
programs designed to exchange information, veteran to veteran, with our 
counterparts in Vietnam, the former enemy soldiers, exchanging 
information to help account for the missing from both sides.

     The idea behind this program is that maybe, just maybe, we might 
find additional information that otherwise wouldn't be forthcoming.  
Already we are meeting with dramatic results.  Already we have gathered 
information that will hopefully account for Americans who have been 
unaccounted for all these years.
     We thank the VFW for joining this most important program to help 
bring peace to American families who are still waiting for answers after 
all these years after the war.  The other issue we are working hand in 
hand with you on is the issue of birth defects resulting from Agent 
Orange exposure.
     As I know you all know, the National Academy of Science issued its 
report and for the very first time they linked birth defects, spina 
bifida with Agent Orange exposure. We think in this assembly that is the 
tip of the iceberg There are other defects that can be linked to dioxane 
exposure and chemical exposure.
     By working hand-in-hand, organization with organization, we can 
help with the compensation and health care benefits that those children 
of veterans and grandchildren of veterans so justly deserve.  Our 
country has exposed its soldiers, men and women to chemical agents, be 
it Agent Orange, dioxane or whatever, can cause adverse effects, not 
just in those veterans but in their families, has a responsibility to 
care for those families.
     We, as veteran organizations, have the responsibility to hold our 
government to task to do exactly that.  While it may be true that we 
belong to different organizations, you will find that many of our 
members are also VFW members and many of your veterans are also VVA 
members.
     The important thing, and the most important thing, no matter what 
organization we belong to, we are all veterans serving veterans.  If we 
work together, we can accomplish so much more than if we work 
separately. I am here to thank you, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, for 
all the efforts that you make on behalf of the veterans in this country.
     I thank you for working with us and I want to tell you how much we 
look forward to working with you in the years ahead. Thank you very 
much.

                   PRESENTATION OF VFW AMERICANISM AWARD
                           TO MR. JAMES LEE WITT

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Ladies and gentlemen, beginning in 1959, 
the Veterans of Foreign Wars has presented the prestigious Americanism 
Award to an American who has made outstanding contributions to our 
society and the principles of Americanism.
     This year's recipient is James L. Witt, Director of the Federal 
Emergency Management Agency.  A successful businessman, community leader 
and county judge for Yell County, Arkansas, James Lee Witt was appointed 
by the President to serve as the Director of FEMA in April, 1993.
     Under his direction, FEMA has reorganized into a proactive agency 
that provides the leadership and support to reduce the loss of life and 
property from all types of hazards through a comprehensive, risk-based 
emergency management program of preparedness, response and recovery.
     Mr. Witt has reinvigorated FEMA and educated the public in what to 
do before, during and after a disaster to protect themselves, their 
families, their homes and businesses. Working with and through local 
governments and private organizations, FEMA has been instrumental in 
helping to develop proven and effective plans for recovery and 
reconstruction after a disaster.
     Mr. Witt brings to FEMA substantial experience in emergency 
management, a record of fiscal responsibility and a commitment to 
assisting people in times of crisis.  His guidance and direction and 
concern for the people of this country are in keeping with the highest 
standards in principles of Americanism.
     Please welcome our 1996 VFW Americanism Award recipient, James Lee 
Witt.
     ``Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Americanism Award, 
Gold Medal and Citation awarded to James Lee Witt, Director of Federal 
Emergency Management Agency.
     ``In sincere appreciation of his distinguished service to the 
nation and in special recognition of his reorganization of FEMA into a 
proactive agency that provides the leadership and support to reduce the 
loss of life and property and protect our American institutions from all 
types of hazards through a comprehensive, risk-based emergency program 
of mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery. His leadership has 
reinvigorated FEMA and educated the public in what to do before, during 
and after a disaster to protect  themselves, their families, their home 
and businesses.  His guidance, direction and concern for the people of 
this land are in keeping with the highest standards and principles of 
Americanism.
     ``In Witness Whereof, we have hereunto set our hands and the 
official seal of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, this 
21st day of August, 1996.'' This has been signed by Paul A. Spera, 
Commander-in-Chief, and Larry W. Rivers, Adjutant General.
     Along with that award is an honorarium in the amount of $1,500.

                     RESPONSE - MR. JAMES LEE WITT

     MR. WITT:  I want to thank your National Commander for that very 
kind introduction.  I also want to thank all of you, the VFW 
organization, for the Americanism Award.  I am deeply honored for the 
recognition that you have shown me in the work I have done.
     I want you to know that I am so proud that your award bears my 
name.  I am accepting it on behalf of all the dedicated, hard-working 
employees of FEMA and many others across the country at the state and 
local levels that work with us every day throughout the year.
     The state and local level do so much to help us to promote national 
relief in emergency management.  Three of your leaders are here and I 
have personally worked with them many times. I would like to thank and 
acknowledge that work in emergency management every day is at the state 
and local level.
     They are Billy Ray Cameron from North Carolina, Les Tone of 
Arkansas and Tom Atkinson of Conway, Arkansas, and all the others that 
help support our disaster relief efforts across our great country in 
which the VFW organization has done many times since I have been 
Director of FEMA.
     President Clinton asked me to come to Washington to direct FEMA.  
He gave me orders to find swift and more effective ways we could respond 
to our nation's disasters, whether they are man-made or man-caused, or 
national disasters. President Clinton and Vice-President Gore understand 
that when people are in the worst troubles of their lives they need a 
government that will response effectively, swiftly and compassionately.
     We know that America needs an emergency management system that is 
one that can respond to and help people recover from all kinds of 
disasters.  We are working hard to build this kind of system in  our 
country, the most professional and the most compassionate system that we 
possibly can build.
     It is also working hard to build the capabilities at the state and 
local levels as well to help their neighbors when they are in time of 
need of help.  I think that the most important part of our success has 
come from the relationship we have built in the programs we have 
developed with the armed forces.
     These initiatives have allowed us to help harness the technology in 
ways that have never been attempted in the past. I signed a Memorandum 
of Understanding with the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff to use 
the National Airborne Operation Center for aircraft in certain massive 
disaster situations.
     Also I signed a corporate agreement with TransCom, the U.S. 
Transportation Command, to move our people, our resources anywhere.  
That is the highest level of dispatch. This agreement is totally unique.  
Nothing has ever been done like this before.
     These two agreements involved the U.S. armed forces in disaster 
relief, and they are unprecedented at any time in our nation's history.  
This last week I signed a memorandum with the Civil Air Patrol to help 
us at the national, state and local levels.
     I also asked our communities and corporations to form partnerships 
with the national franchise organizations distributing FEMA material to 
state and local restaurants, all across our country to help us be 
prepared.  All of these issues have one thing in common, they involve 
Americans working together to help other Americans at a time of need, 
involving the highest form of citizenship there is, giving oneself for 
another.
     Each of you in this room has practiced this form of citizenship, 
this unique form of Americanism.  The people I work with in Washington 
and across the country practice it every single day.  My contribution is 
to join in these efforts and also build a tax base that Americans can 
use this system for generations to come.
     Today you honor me and I am deeply grateful for the trust that you 
have shown in me.  I will do everything I can to not violate that trust, 
to build and help you and other organizations to build a better America 
for our children and grandchildren for their future.  Thank you very 
much.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Ladies and gentlemen, let me bring you 
up to date.  We have been notified that Vice-President Gore's plane has 
landed.  We were waiting for word from them that he is on his way.  We 
have probably got about 10 or 15 minutes before that happens.
     When he gets here, and once he gets here, as we did yesterday, we 
will go and get him and all those things.  We have a little bit of time.  
What I would like to do at this time is move this program along a little 
bit and go back to some of our business.
     I am going to call on the Chairman of the Committee on National 
Security and Foreign Affairs, Past Commander-in-Chief Gunner Kent, to at 
least to begin the report of his Committee.  When we get to where we 
need to stop, we will do it at that time and pick it up again later. 
     Past Commander-in-Chief Kent.

                  REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON NATIONAL SECURITY 
                            AND FOREIGN AFFAIRS

     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF KENT:  Commander-in-Chief, thank you for 
appointing me as Chairman of the Committee on National Security and 
Foreign Affairs.  I would like to thank  Vice-Chairman, R. D. 
``Bulldog''  Smith and also Chairman of the Subcommittee on POW-MIA, 
Billy Ray Cameron from North Carolina, and the Vice-Chairman of the POW-
MIA Committee, Bob Wallace from New Jersey.
     I would like to also thank all of the comrades that have served on 
the Committee. I do know one thing, we had more Catholics on that 
Committee than we had anything else, because the Father got up and spoke 
on one of the resolutions, and we had a roll call and it was 53 to 43, 
so I know we had more Catholics than we did anything else.
     At this time I would like to have the Chairman of the POW-MIA 
Committee to report on his Committee.

                       REPORT OF POW-MIA SUBCOMMITTEE

     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF CAMERON:  Thank you very much, Gunner.  It 
is indeed a pleasure to be here this morning  to report on the POW-MIA 
Committee.  First of all, I would like to thank our Commander-in-Chief 
Paul Spera for attending our meeting and making some remarks, which I 
think helped the Committee along.
     Also Jim Nier, the Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief, and John Moon, a 
special thanks for also coming by our Committee. Before I start into my 
resolutions report, I would like to say once again the Veterans of 
Foreign Wars and its Ladies Auxiliary is totally committed to resolving 
the POW-MIA issue. 
     I have heard that the POW-MIA Committee is going to be dissolved in 
the future.  That is a total rumor.  The Senior  Vice and Junior Vice 
assured me we are going to continue with the Committee and the Veterans 
of Foreign Wars is totally committed to resolving the issue.
     First of all, our Committee met, and would our Committee members 
please stand.  That is anyone that is on the POW-MIA Committee, please 
stand.  There are several in the audience.  I would like to say a 
special thank you to our Past Commander-in-Chief Bob Wallace who served 
as the Vice-Chairman. Bob, as usual, does a good job and we are 
appreciative.
     First of all, I will move through the resolutions that were 
approved in our entire Committee, and then I will move for those and ask 
for a second.
     Our first resolution that was approved by the Committee is 
Resolution 401, Support Public Awareness Projects. There were amendments 
just for clarification.
     Our second resolution that was approved was Resolution 402, Seek 
Opportunity to Resolve the Korean War POW Issue. That was amended, once 
again, for clarification.
     Resolution 418, Assist Vietnam's Recovery of MIA's as a Sign of Our 
Good Faith. Once again, that was amended for clarification and it was 
approved.
     Resolution No. 424, Americans Who are Prisoners of  War or Missing 
in Action, was amended once again for clarification.
     Also Resolution 435, VFW Supports Kuwait Approved Demand Full 
Accounting of its MIA's was approved.
     So at this time those are the ones that were approved by the 
Committee.  I will move that those be approved and ask for a second.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF BOB WALLACE (Post 1951 - New Jersey):  I 
second the motion.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion has been made and seconded to 
accept the recommendations of the Committee on approving these 
resolutions.  Anything on the question?  Anything on the question?
     The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 2.
     COMRADE M. G. DeBURLO (Post 5988 - Massachusetts): Comrade 
Commander-in-Chief, would you please read those resolution numbers 
again?
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF CAMERON: The Committee recommends approval 
of 401, 402, 418, 424 and 435.
     COMRADE M. G. DeBURLO (Post 5988 - Massachusetts): Thank you.  
Commander-in-Chief, I move that 418 be set aside.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  We are going to set aside 418.  Are 
there any other set asides?  Are there any other set asides?  If there 
are no other set asides, we have a motion to adopt the remaining 
resolutions read off by the Chairman.  All those in favor will say 
``aye''; all those opposed ``nay''.  The ``ayes'' have it.  Those 
motions have been passed and the other resolution has been set aside.
     At this time we have been informed that the Vice-President's 
motorcade is on its way.  We are going to do whatever it is we need to 
do to get ready.  I would like the Chairman to step aside for now.

     We will have a recess in place for a few minutes.

     ...Recess. ...

     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF NIER:  We proudly welcome the Vice-
President of the United States, Al Gore, accompanied by Secretary of 
Veterans Affairs, Jesse Brown, Deputy Secretary Hershel W. Gober, and 
Commander-in-Chief Paul Spera.  Let's give them a warm welcome.

                INTRODUCTION OF VICE-PRESIDENT AL GORE, JR.

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Ladies and gentlemen, it is indeed a 
pleasure for me to introduce the 45th Vice-President of the United 
States, Al Gore.  He brings to his office almost two decades of 
distinguished public service in the United States Congress.
     Vice-President Gore heads the National Performance Review, an 
initiative that has saved taxpayers more than $58 billion and reduced 
the size of the federal government by more than 230,000 positions, the 
smallest government since John F. Kennedy's administration.
      Vice-President Gore has traveled the country to meet with people 
who live in poverty-stricken inner-cities and rural areas to hear what 
they need to rebuild their lives and communities. He chairs the 
Community Empowerment Board, which oversees various initiatives designed 
to bring together distressed communities to develop plans for 
revitalization.
     Among elected officials, Vice-President Gore is recognized for his 
unparalleled record of environmental work and concern.  He is the author 
of a national best-seller, Earth in the Balance: Ecology and the Human 
Spirit.
     In 1969, Al Gore enlisted in the United States Army and served in 
Vietnam and is currently a member of VFW Post 5021, Carthage, Tennessee.
     Ladies and gentlemen, please give a warm reception to the Vice-
President of the United States, Al Gore.

     [Whereupon, the assembly extended a prolonged standing ovation.]

                   ADDRESS - VICE-PRESIDENT AL GORE

     VICE-PRESIDENT GORE:  Thank you very much.  Thank you, ladies and 
gentlemen.  Commander-in-Chief Spera, and Mrs. Spera, thank you for your 
very generous introduction. Secretary Jesse Brown and Deputy Hershel 
Gober, I will say something more in a moment.
     My colleagues along with Jesse Brown and President Clinton and FEMA 
Director James Lee Witt, thank you for giving James Lee Witt your 
Americanism Gold Medal Award. We appreciate that. To Senior Vice 
Commander-in-Chief James Nier, to all of the distinguished guests who 
are present, I am told Lieutenant Governor Steve Henry and Congressman 
Mike Ward are here.  I apologize to them.  I am going to be meeting with 
some others a little bit later on.
     May I say a special word of welcome to my fellow Tennesseeans in 
the VFW, and on behalf of the President I would like to say hello to the 
Arkansans who are here.  I know he has many friends here.
     May I say also that I would like to especially say a word of 
welcome and thanks to my fellow Vietnam veterans in this audience. You 
know, when President Clinton announced his intention to appoint Jesse 
Brown, many on the other side thought it wasn't a good choice because in 
their word he wasn't too much of an advocate for veterans to do the job.  
That is what they said.
     Well, he is an advocate, because you get things done through 
partnerships.  I want to formally and publicly here and now thank 
Secretary Jesse Brown and his Deputy, Hershel Gober, and their staff, 
their whole team, for their commitment to serving all of you who have 
worn our nation's uniform.  I would like to thank Jesse and Hershel for 
being, in my opinion, the best team ever to serve America's veterans of 
the United States.
     I am really glad to be here.  You know, I was told that the reason 
I was invited to speak to this gathering is because of my reputation for 
excitement.  I am used to that.  I have heard just about all those 
stories by now.  If you use the strobe lights, it looks like Al Gore is 
moving.
     How can you tell Al Gore from a room full of Secret Service Agents?  
He is the stiff one.  Al Gore is so poor his Secret Service code name is 
Al Gore.  I am used to many.  I am telling you every time I hear a new 
one, I always have the same reaction, ``Very funny, Tipper.''
     In spite of that, I want you to know that I really enjoy serving as 
Vice-President.  I went on one of the late night shows recently, David 
Letterman, and they asked me to give the top ten most enjoyable things 
about being Vice-President.  I won't give their whole list here, but I 
remember number five on the list because I am reminded of it by this 
podium here and the great seal of the Vice-President.
     If you look at that seal and closed your left eye and turn your 
head just right, it says President of the United States.  It gives me a 
thrill every time I do that.
     Well, ladies and gentlemen and fellow veterans, it is really 
humbling to stand here with you, those of you who represent the great 
long line of Americans who have served and sacrificed and sometimes died 
for the principles upon which our nation was built.
     This organization has served our country well.  You have preserved 
and defended the ideals that have allowed us as Americans to uniquely 
vanquish with our enemies and give truth to the fact that America is 
indeed and always will be the greatest nation on the face of this earth.
     Justice, liberty and democracy, that is what we stand for. There is 
nothing partisan about our commitment as Americans, and these are not 
words to use just every four years in the middle of a political 
campaign.  These are concepts that live and breathe forever, wherever 
the men and women of our armed forces serve.
     You are here today, our veterans among America's heroes, and you 
give these words life and meaning.  You have done so in every single 
battle that has bequeathed democracy and security to our republic, 
whether in the Persian Gulf or in Vietnam, or in Korea, or earlier on 
the battlefields of World War II.
     More than 16 million brave Americans served in World War II, 
including Bob Dole. Incidentally, all Americans deeply respect Senator 
Dole's distinguish service in that war, dedication to his country and 
courage in fighting back from injuries that he received in the line of 
duty.
     We appreciate you and your services as well, and Jesse Brown's 
service, and the dedication that America's veterans have shown to our 
country.  All Americans know that we honor our nation by honoring each 
and every one of our veterans. This means more than ceremonies and 
parades.
     It is something deeper, more eternal. It means preserving and 
protecting what you fought for, opportunity at home, leadership around 
the world, and above all an America that is strong, safe and free. That 
is why I am here today to tell you what President Clinton has done to 
secure these virtues and what he plans to do in his next term if the 
American people grant him one.
     Now, I know that the other day the VFW-PAC by a very slim margin 
gave its endorsement to our opponent.  That is fine.  It is their right 
to speak their mind.  After all, that is what democracies are about.  
Still if there is one thing that we have learned from America's 
veterans, it is this.  Stand up and defend what you believe in.
     So today I am standing here to defend what we have done and tell 
you why we believe our vision is the right vision for America. First of 
all, we believe that everyone willing to take responsibility and work 
for it must have the opportunity to reach the American dream.
     That means working together to create a strong economy, an economy 
that creates good jobs with growing incomes. Let's not forget, because 
many Americans cannot forget, that four years ago our economy had driven 
into the ditch.
     Unemployment was very high, wages were low, the deficit had been 
tripled and was still going up.  We were trying to come  out of a triple 
dip recession.  Three times the  economy struggled to recover and three 
times it sputtered and failed.  We needed to put our economic house back 
in order.
     Our national debt had quadrupled.  Indeed, we have a surplus this 
year, except for the interest payments on the debt rolled up between 
1981 and 1993.  Well, President Clinton came forward with the right 
tools, namely, a bold economic plan issued in January, 1993, not long 
after he took his hand off the Bible having taken the oath of office as 
President.
     Some of you remember that plan.  It was attacked on partisan 
grounds.  Many preferred the status quo to change.  We had to fight hard 
to get it passed.  In fact, in the House of Representatives, it passed 
by a single vote margin. Then it went over to the Senate where it was a 
50-50 tie vote, causing momentary despair.  Some of you know your 
Constitution.
     There is a provision there in which roughly translated the Vice-
President, every time I vote, we win.  I voted and we won.  We adopted 
the change.  Change began to occur.  All of a sudden the economy began 
to start producing jobs again.
     Look at what has happened since that time.  Ten million new jobs 
have been created.  The vast majority are with higher wages.  Our auto 
industry is number one again.  We have 800,000 new construction jobs.  
Our high tech industries are number one in the world again.
     Four and one-half million more Americans are private homeowners 
than was the case four years ago. We have produced results for the 
American people.  We have the lowest combined rate of unemployment, 
interest rates and inflation in 30 years.  The budget, the deficit had 
climbed to $300 billion a year, and was still going up, that has been 
cut by 60 percent.  In fact, it has come down four years in a row, the 
third time that has happened in a President's term since before the 
Civil War, way back in 1852.
     That is something hard to do.  That is because it takes leadership 
from someone who is willing to set priorities. One way we did it was by 
reinventing government, downsizing the government in a smart way, not 
eliminating it.  You know, there is a difference between just declaring 
government the enemy and trying to eliminate as much of it as you 
possibly can, and fixing it and eliminating the waste and the abuse and 
the part that needs to be cut out to keep the parts that can serve the 
American people.
     It is kind of a difference that is illustrated in the old story 
about the veterinarian and the taxidermist that went in to business 
together.  They put a sign out in front of their establishment that 
said, ``Either way, you get your dog back.''
     Well, there is a difference.  We want to fix it.  We don't want to 
get a trophy and put it on the wall.  That is how we have gone about it.  
The President has produced an economy that is growing with wages that 
are finally going up again, adjusted for inflation, going up in every 
single category, including, incidentally, yesterday's raise in the 
minimum wage  for ten million hard-working families that need and have 
earned a minimum wage.
     We have not stopped there.  We have declared war on crime.  We took 
19 deadly assault weapons off the streets.  We put 100,000 community 
police officers into a program toward the sidewalks and streets of every 
city in America.  Most of them are already there.
     We are fortunate that General Barry McCaffrey, who fought with 
gusto with some of you in Desert Storm is now leading our war against 
drugs, fighting to reverse the trend that began before this 
administration came into office.  We are beginning to make strides.
     The youth crime rate has just started to come down. In every single 
category, crime is down dramatically and has come down for the last four 
years in a row. We have made progress in accessing education and 
improving education. We have taken new steps to protect our environment.
     Ladies and gentlemen, we have stood up for this nation's veterans 
who have stood fast for America.  We are proud that President Clinton, 
in setting his priorities, priorities that have brought this deficit 
down and are aiming us toward a balanced budget the right way, in 
setting those priorities we are proud that President Clinton requested a 
billion dollars increase in funding for the Department of  Veterans 
Affairs.
     We are disappointed that the Republican Congress cut his request by 
$915 million.  We believe this should be a priority.  We are proud that 
this President insisted that disabled veterans and military retirees 
receive full cost-of-living adjustments on benefits.
     He believes that is a priority.  We are proud that today more 
Vietnam veterans, who suffered because of exposure to Agent Orange, are 
now entitled to the disability payments they earned with their service.  
We are proud of the steps we are taking to provide help for the 
veterans' children who suffered from spina bifida.
     We are proud that under Bill Clinton's leadership we have doubled 
Veterans Administration funding of programs for the homeless veterans 
and have been proactive in improving services for the Persian Gulf 
veterans, women veterans and POW's.
     We are proud that President Clinton has helped 1.5 million veterans 
obtain civilian jobs. We are proud that under President Clinton the 
veterans' unemployment rate has been cut by almost a third from 7.2 
percent, when we took over, to 4.9 percent in January of this year.
     So I want to ask you to look at the record.  Look beyond the 
rhetoric, look beyond the political words, and look at the facts.  We 
invite you to look at a record under Bill Clinton that has been in the 
words of Jesse Brown the best record for veterans in America since 
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, because it has been a priority for 
President Clinton.
     May I invite you to look at the record of both candidates.  Look at 
the voting record.  We acknowledge and praise Senator Dole's service and 
courage.  That is fair; that is right.  It is also fair and right to ask 
you to look at the record.  I invite you to do so.
     Let me say also that we are proud of our commitment to obtain the 
full accounting of America's POW-MIA's, and I want to assure you no 
stone will be left unturned and no clue overlooked until our missing 
comrades are accounted for.  We owe this to the families of those 
missing Americans.
     Let me make another point.  My fellow members of the  VFW, we are 
proud, extremely proud that when members of the other political party, 
to which President Clinton and I do not belong, threatened veterans' 
benefits in a strategy designed to shut down the federal government 
twice in order to try to convince the American people to buy their 
agenda, President Clinton stood firm.
     He did not budge and he did so with a veto.  Veterans' benefits 
were among the items prominently listed in what was at stake in that 
battle.  You know, in many ways the difference between our parties 
really couldn't be sharper.  Last winter, during that budget debate, the 
other side wanted to offer an indiscriminate tax break, far larger than 
what we have proposed, and pay for it by cutting the things that 
Americans value most: education, Medicare, healthy environment, 
veterans' benefits.
     So President Clinton stopped them in their tracks and said, ``I 
will not accept it,'' and twice vetoed it. Now, they are up to the same 
old tricks.  This time with an even bigger tax cut, even more 
indiscriminate, and absolutely no way to pay for it.  It is a retreat 
from a balanced budget.
     Our veterans, all of you, did not sacrifice so that this generation 
could blow a huge hole in the deficit and saddle our children with an 
unmanageable debt. That is exactly what the Republican plan would do.  
They may claim this burden will not fall on the backs of our children or 
the elderly, or veterans, but let's be honest, it may not be today or 
tomorrow, or the next day, but with the Republican plan veterans would 
have to pay.  There is no way around it.
     Yesterday Senator Dole said that cuts in veterans' benefits are off 
the table.  Later, I don't know if you saw the words spoken by his 
spokesman after his speech, but he corrected the record and he said, 
``No, veterans' benefits are not off the table.''
     Well, you have a right to know whether they are on the table or off 
the table.  If they are going to be cut, how deeply, by the amount that 
was proposed in the budget that Speaker Gingrich and Senator Dole tried 
to convince the President not to veto?
     You know, big and indiscriminate tax cuts that give more to the 
wealthy Americans than anyone else just doesn't fit in with the campaign 
rhetoric saying veterans' benefits are off the table, Social Security is 
off the table, military is off the table, Medicare is off the table.
     If you believe that, then fine.  But if you will look at the record 
and look at what certainly would occur, then you will come to a 
different conclusion.  That is why President Clinton has offered a 
better approach for a stronger America, targeted tax cuts that would 
help middle income families.
     That is a tax deduction for job training and college education, 
making two years of college as universal as the high school education is 
today.  A tax cut that we can afford and that is paid for in a set of 
priorities that includes respect for and protection for veterans' 
benefits.
     Now, that is the choice.  Of course, even with all of the progress 
here at home, let me say that we understand very clearly that America 
cannot be truly strong at home unless we are also strong overseas. 
Although Communism's dark shadow has long last given way to a better way 
to freedom and hope for millions of people around the world, we know 
that the forest of destruction still lurks in our midst.
     Dangerous threats of terrorism, international crime, ethnic and 
religious hatreds, and threats caused by weapons and  mass destruction 
have re-emerged with a vengeance.  That is why it remains our most 
solemn duty to ensure that the men and women of our armed forces remain 
the best equipped, best trained and the best readiness fighting force in 
the world.
     We intend to make sure of this. That is why it remains our duty to 
ensure that the equipment which supports them and the strategies that 
guide them are the most sophisticated on God's earth.  We give no 
quarter to anyone who says that our fighting men and women are not the 
very best, the best supported and the readiness that this world has ever 
seen.
     America has the best right now.  Just ask the former dictators in 
Haiti, who got out of Haiti when they heard our troops were on the way.  
Ask the Balkan commanders in Bosnia who went from the battlefield to the 
negotiating table when they learned that America's will was not to be 
tested, and now for the first time in five long and bloody years the 
children of Sarajevo wake to a school bell and not a mortar shell.
     America is the indispensable nation.  Our citizens and our soldiers 
still mark the distance between peace and war on a planet that is now 
just awakening to the profound possibilities of free minds and free 
markets.  As we learned in the Forest of Argonne, on Pork Chop Hill, in 
Caisson and along the berms of Iraq, freedom is never free.
     As the President said on so many occasions, when our interests and 
our values demanded, America must act and leap. It is our greatest 
tradition.  That is why the President's commitment to fully fund our 
armed forces is unyielding.  That is why he has made adjustments to 
increase the defense budget three times in three years, adding back a 
total of more than $50 billion to strengthen the readiness of our armed 
forces and the quality of life for the men and women who serve in 
uniform.
     That is why he acted to ensure that the very best of the next 
generation of military hardware, like the B-230's and the F-22's will 
begin into production at the turn of the century.  That is why since 
1993, President Clinton has requested over $6 billion to develop and 
procure state of the art missile defense designed to shoot down short 
range missiles that might be armed with conventional chemical biological 
or nuclear warheads.
     We are also committed to the development and deployment of even 
more advanced air theater missile dependence.  We are pledged to develop 
by the year 2000 a national missile defense system that could be 
deployed as early as 2003 should a long range missile threat to 
America's shores emerge.
     I strongly object to those in the Republican Party who say that 
this administration is not committed to readiness in maintaining the 
forces that we need to meet the challenges of the future. Let's remember 
a very important fact.
     This is the President, Bill Clinton, who said firmly and clearly no 
to those who called for a decline in military spending at the turn of 
the century.  It is the Republican Congress themselves that would cut 
defense at the turn of the century to try to make their numbers fit 
together.
     Again, look beyond the rhetoric and look at the facts.  Let me 
repeat.  It is the Republican defense budget, not President Clinton's 
budget that drops in the next century. President Clinton's budget, which 
is also there for you to see, does not.  It increases.  The facts are 
facts.
      Illusions must be penetrated.  The fact is that no person is as 
committed to military readiness to the security and well-being of our 
troops, to the safety of our nation as President Bill Clinton.  We yield 
to no one.  Nowhere has this been more true than in our determined 
fights against terrorism.
     Mark my words, the fight we wage against those who promote fear 
destruction and terror is a fight we will win. That is why this 
President passed the most sweeping counter terrorism bill in our history 
over the objections of the Republican Congress, despite efforts by the 
Republican leadership to weaken that bill.
     That is why, for example, when former President Bush was threatened 
by assassin's bullet, when he visited Kuwait, President Clinton sent our 
fighter planes and Tomahawk missiles to Baghdad to send a clear signal 
that the line America drew in the sand is as clear today as it was five 
years ago.  
     That is why we are working right now to increase the security of 
air travel, to expand our counter-terrorism intelligence capabilities, 
to open new offices for law enforcement, particularly the FBI across the 
globe, and to demand the no sanctuary pledge for terrorism, sending a 
clear, uncontrovertible message that any person who dares to take on the 
United States of America, the message is you can run but you cannot 
hide.  We will come after you.
     In defense of our nation and our families, we will act alone when 
necessary and with our friends as partners when possible. Sometimes as 
peace keepers, but always as patriots and as Americans.  Incidentally, 
don't let anybody tell you that when an American President decides to 
assign our troops to serve with our allies in human peace keeping 
operations, that he somehow relinquishes his command authority.
     That is bunk, pure and simple. Despite what some might have you 
believe with political rhetoric, the chain of command is a hallowed line 
that runs from the President to every serviceman and servicewoman in 
every unit everywhere in the world, including those who were assigned 
with our allies to serve in U.N. operations.
     That command relationship between the President of the United 
States and our men and women in uniform is never broken, and it will 
never be.  Wherever they serve, the President has ultimate command 
authority over every single one of our stalls and it is by his authority 
alone that anyone can request our troops to perform a military task.
     Ask our colleagues in combined operations in Korea,  or those who 
defended our nation in the deserts of Iraq, or those who have brought 
peace to the Balkans.  Well, America never has and never will retreat 
from the obligations of leadership.
     Policemen, no; staunch flexible and mighty defenders of our vital 
interest, always.  That is the VFW way, that is the American way.  
Opportunity at home, leadership abroad, a strong, safe and free America, 
that is the vision of Bill Clinton.
     I would like to leave you with the words that are inscribed on a 
plaque at the headquarters of the Department of  Veterans Affairs just a 
couple of blocks from the White House. They are words that are sacred to 
President Bill Clinton and me, and to his whole team.
     They are the words of a Republican, Abraham Lincoln, the words he 
uttered in his second inaugural address, but they are, of course, words 
that have nothing whatsoever to do with partisanships but everything to 
do with what it means to be an American.
     President Lincoln said, ``It is our responsibility to care for him 
who shall have borne the battle for his widow and his orphan.''
     That was our duty then and that is our duty today. We will do it.  
God bless American veterans, God bless America. Thank you.

     [Whereupon, the assembly extended a prolonged standing ovation.]

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  May I have the Chairman of the National 
Contests Committee, to come forward, please.

           PRESENTATION OF FIELD CONTESTS AND VFW COLOR GUARD

     COMRADE ROBERT BRADY (Department of Pennsylvania):  We will now 
have the results of the Field Contest at the Patriotic Rally.  The 
winner of the Senior Men's VFW Color Guard Contest for the Field Contest 
is the 98th Division, VFW Post 9251, Rochester, New York. The unit will 
come down front, please.
     The winner of the Field Contest for the Auxiliary Color Guard, 
Senior Ladies VFW Auxiliary, representing District No. 6, Department of 
Arkansas, Little Rock, Arkansas. Congratulations, ladies.
     In the Junior Division, the Junior ROTC Color Guard, the winner is 
Griffin High School, the Female Unit, representing Griffin High School 
AJROTC, VFW Posts 5448 and 8480, Griffin, Georgia.
     The winner of our Junior ROTC Armed Drill Team was Griffin High 
School, VFW Posts 5448 and 8480, Griffin, Georgia.
     The Junior ROTC Unit, Unarmed Drill Team, Ladies, representing VFW 
Post 8632, Rubidoux High School, Riverside, California.
     The United States Patriotic Rally, the Best Appearing Senior VFW 
Color Guard was judged to be the New Jersey State Honor Guard.  The 
plaque will be accepted by the Department Commander by Dennis Wall.
     Now Commander Orlin Jackson will accept the plaque for the Best 
Appearing Senior Ladies VFW Auxiliary Color Guard, representing VFW Post 
295, South St. Paul, Minnesota.

                    REPORT OF POW-MIA SUBCOMMITTEE

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Let's get back to the business we were 
in when we closed down.  We were at the point where Resolution 418 was 
set aside. Now, if you want to take action on it, someone must come to 
the microphone and make a motion and have it seconded.
     Microphone No. 2.
     COMRADE M. G. DeBURLO (Post 5988 - Massachusetts):  I am here 
offering amendment to No. 418.  The Sergeant-at-Arms has a copy to give 
to the Chair.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  We have the original motion to pass all 
of the resolutions as reported, and this one was set aside, so that 
motion is still on the floor.  The Parliamentarian has instructed me, 
and I agree, that in order for us to do this we first need a motion to 
approve, since it was set aside and removed from the others that were 
already approved.
     Someone needs to make a motion to approve 418 and second it, and 
then I will accept the amendment.
     COMRADE M. G. DeBURLO (Post 5988 - Massachusetts):  I so move, 
Comrade Commander-in-Chief.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Do I have a second to that motion?
     COMRADE RON DORSEY (Post 856 - Texas):  I second the motion.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion has been made and seconded to 
approve Resolution 418.  We now have an amendment to the Resolution 418.  
I will turn this over to the Chairman.  Will you read your amendment?  
Do you have a copy?  Will you read your amendment, please?  Make a 
motion to amend the resolution by the following amendment.
     COMRADE M. G. DeBURLO (Post 5988 - Massachusetts):  Commander-in-
Chief, I make a motion to amend Resolution 418 with the following 
amendment:
     After listening to the presentation from the representatives of our 
allies from Taiwan and Korea, this amendment is offered in the same 
spirit.
     ``WHEREAS, our National Officers in Vietnam are only allowed to 
hold meetings with Communists' efforts and our former allies of the 
Republics of Vietnam are not considered veterans;
     ``BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that during any future trips to the 
Socialist Republic of Vietnam our national officers request to hold 
meetings with the servicemen and women who fought alongside U.S. forces 
during the Vietnam War and that they also be granted the status of 
veterans by the government of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.''
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Do I have a second to that amendment?
     COMRADE RON DORSEY (Post 856 - Texas):  I second that motion.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Now, will you read the original 
resolution, Ken.
     COMRADE KENNETH STEADMAN:  Resolution 418 is to assist Vietnam's 
recovery of MIA's as a sign of our good faith.
     ``WHEREAS, during the periodic visits to Vietnam concerning our 
POW/MIAs, our National Officers have been asked by the Vietnamese for 
any information American veterans may have concerning Vietnam's 300,000 
MIAs; and
     ``WHEREAS, members of the U.S. Joint Task Force-Full Accounting'' 
fully support any U.S. veteran effort that would help Vietnam locate and 
recover its MIAs, as our effort would generate good will among the 
Vietnamese; and
     ``WHEREAS, our government officials in Vietnam and Laos and VFW 
National Officers have noted the increased importance of good will in 
helping to resolve the POW/MIA issue and recover our MIAs;
     ``NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of 
the United States that at each level of the  VFW -- National, 
Department, District, County Council, Post -- strenuous efforts be made 
to collect any information which might be of value in determining the 
fate of Vietnam's 300,000 MIAs and of assistance in the recovery of 
their remains; and
     ``BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we urge all levels of the VFW to 
solicit all Vietnam veteran members (and non-members) for any 
information or material that could be used to determine the fate of 
Vietnamese MIAs and their graves. Such information and material include 
battlefield souvenirs especially if they contain names or other 
identifying information; personal effects such as photos, letters, 
identification documents, taken from casualties; sketch maps, photos, 
overlays (annotated with dates and locations if possible) which would be 
of help in identifying Vietnamese grave sites; and
     ``BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that VFW National Headquarters publicize 
this effort and provide Departments with materials which might be used 
in further publicizing our efforts and that the VFW Washington Office 
act as the collecting point and repository of all such information 
obtained from our members and the public at large; and
     ``BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that on subsequent trips to the region by 
VFW National Officers, such information be turned over to Vietnamese 
authorities as an expression of our desire to assist them in recovering 
their MIAs and to encourage their greater effort in helping us reach the 
fullest possible accounting of all MIAs.''
     This has been submitted by the Commander-in-Chief.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Let me do this.  There is nobody at 
Microphone No. 2.  Does anyone want to speak on this?
     Microphone No. 3.
     COMRADE RON RUSKO (Post 9460 - Connecticut):  Comrade Commander-in-
Chief, I am Ron Rusko from Post 9460, Stratford, Connecticut.  I am also 
the POW/MIA Chairman this year.  I had the proud pleasure during your 
administration in serving as the Chairman.
     I rise to speak on the amendment to Resolution 418.  Commander-in-
Chief and Fellow Delegates, I think that as the amendment is presented 
it is just somewhat flawed in that the first part of the resolution 
requests, or the amended resolution requests that our officers be 
allowed to talk with the veterans of the Vietnam War on their side.
     There is nothing wrong with that.  But in the second part, it 
pretty much demands that the government of Vietnam give to the veterans 
of Vietnam the veteran status.  That would be like them telling us to 
take away your status as a veteran before they would talk to us.
     To simplify it, we simply cannot go over there and say we want you 
to give those veterans veteran status.  We have no right to do that.  So 
if the maker of the amendment would agree to strike all after the word 
in this amendment ``during the Vietnam War'', and let me read the 
sentence, ``That our National Officer request to hold meetings with the 
servicemen and women who fought alongside U.S. forces during the Vietnam 
War,'' and strike all after that, Comrade Commander-in-Chief, I think 
this amendment to the resolution would serve us well.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Microphone No. 2.
     COMRADE M. G. DeBURLO (Post 5988 - Massachusetts):  Commander-in-
Chief, as the maker I concur with Ron Rusko's suggestion.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Does the seconder concur?
     COMRADE RON DORSEY (Post 856 - Texas):  I concur.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The maker and seconder of the amendment 
agree that this amendment to the resolution will end with the words 
``Vietnam War'' in the last sentence, ``and that they also be granted 
the status of veterans by the government of Socialist Republic of 
Vietnam is now removed from the amendment.''  Is that correct?
     COMRADE KENNETH STEADMAN:  That is correct.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Okay.
     Microphone No. 2, anything else on the question? Microphone No. 3, 
anything on the question? Anything on the question?
     COMRADE M. G. DeBURLO (Post 5988 - Massachusetts):  It is just that 
I want to remind everybody that we have afforded the same courtesies to 
our former allies, all 56 nations in World War II, and our allies who 
have served in Korea, and I think it is only fitting that those who 
fought with us, beside us and died with us be given this courtesy and 
recognition.  Thank you, Comrade Commander-in-Chief.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you, comrade.  We will now vote on 
the amendment.  We have got someone running, jumping, hopping and 
skipping to the microphone.
     The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 1.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF ROBERT WALLACE (Post 8651 - New Jersey):  
The beginning of the resolution, as I heard it, says that the former 
allies of the United States are not considered veterans by the 
government of Vietnam.  I am told that on a recent trip by the Senior 
Vice Commander-in-Chief Jim Nier he was told by the leaders in Vietnam 
that whether you served on the North Vietnamese side or the South 
Vietnamese side, they consider everyone a veteran.
     The intent to meet with everyone is good, but I question the status 
of us saying they are not veterans when the leadership of this 
organization was told by the governmental leaders they are considered 
veterans. I think we should strike those words also.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  I better go back to the maker of the 
motion one more time.
     Microphone No. 2.
     COMRADE M. G. DeBURLO (Post 5988 - Massachusetts): Thank you, 
Comrade Commander-in-Chief.  I know what the  Vietnamese officers have 
said and I know what they have alleged.  However, in fact, that is not 
so and, in fact, there are remains that we have recovered that have been 
stored in the land of Hawaii and they have not been accepted and will 
not be accepted to return to their families.
     What this amendment does, it makes it just a little bit clearer and 
points out to the Socialist Republic of  Vietnam, the Communist 
government there, that we are not abandoning our former allies and that 
is all.  Thank you.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Anything further on the question?  
Hearing nothing further on the question, we will vote on the amendment.  
All those in favor of the amendment, please signify by saying ``aye''; 
all those opposed ``nay''.  The ``ayes'' have it. The amendment has 
passed.
     On the motion, as amended, all those in favor will signify by 
saying ``aye''; those opposed. The ``ayes'' have it. The motion is 
passed and the resolution passed as amended.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF CAMERON:  We have Resolution No. 431, 
Americans Who are Prisoners of War or Missing in Action. We rejected 
this in favor of Resolution 424 because it was covered in Resolution No. 
424.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Hearing no set asides on this, the 
standing of the Resolution Committee will be accepted and they will be 
rejected.  Anything further?
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF CAMERON:  Thank you.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  I will at this time dismiss the Chairman 
of the Subcommittee with my best wishes and thanks for a good job and 
return this back to Past Commander-in-Chief Gunner Kent.

               REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON NATIONAL SECURITY
                    AND FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Cont'd.)

     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF KENT:  The National Security Affairs 
Resolutions, I will read now the resolutions that were adopted, or 
adopted as amended, by the Committee.
     Resolution 404, The Lesson of the Cold War, adopt.
     Resolution 405, Limit Foreign Ownership of U.S. Businesses and 
Properties, adopt.
     Resolution 406, Stop Illegal Immigration at the Border, adopted as 
amended.
     No. 407, It is Time to Push Castro Out, adopt as amended.
     No. 408, Punish Terrorists Now, adopted as amended.
     No. 409, Strategic Defense Should be a Strategic Priority, adopt as 
amended.
     No. 410, Honoring Those who Serve, adopted.
     No. 411, Oppose Lifting the Defense Department Ban on Homosexuals 
in the Armed Forces, adopt.
     No. 412, Maintain an Effective U.S. Coast Guard, adopt.
     No. 413, Standing Firm for Freedom, adopt as amended.
     No. 414, National Strategy of Peace Through Strength, adopt as 
amended.
     No. 415, Halt the Erosion of Intelligent Services, adopt as 
amended.
     No. 416, Retain U.S. Military Forces in Europe, adopt.
     No. 417, Support the Joint Chiefs on Withdrawal from Yugoslavia, 
adopt as amended.
     No. 419, Oppose U.S. Force Under Foreign Command, adopt.
     No. 420, Support for the Republic of China on Taiwan, adopt as 
amended.
     No. 421, Oppose Women in Combat, adopt.
     No. 422, Retain the Selective Service, adopt.
     No. 423, A Reinvigorated Merchant Marine is Essential to a Strong 
Defense, adopt.
     No. 425, Time to Monitor the Panama Canal, adopt.
     No. 426, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal for Bosnia Veterans, 
adopt.
     No. 434, Support of the Republic of Korea, adopt.
     No. 436, Army Officer Base Medal for Those Who Served in Italy in 
1945 from 25 May, 1945 to 26 October, 1954, adopt as amended.
     Comrade Commander-in-Chief, I move that the Committee's 
recommendation for adoption should be approved.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE BENJAMIN PEZZA (Post 4651 - Rhode Island):  I second the 
motion.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion has been made and seconded to 
accept the recommendations of the Committee and adopt the resolutions as 
listed.  On the question, any set asides?  Hearing none, we will put it 
to a vote.  All those in favor will signify by saying ``aye''; all those 
opposed ``no''.  The ``ayes'' have it.  The motion carries.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF KENT:  I will now read the resolutions that 
were rejected by the Committee.
     Resolution 427, U.S. Military Placed Under U.N. Command and the 
Question of Legality of Presidential Decision Directive (PPD 25), 
rejected in favor of Resolution 419.
     No. 428, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal for Korean Service, 
rejected.
     No. 429, Enact Legislation to Prevent Members of the United States 
Armed Forces from Serving Under the Command of a Foreign Officer and 
Wearing the United Nations Insignia, rejected in favor of Resolution 
419.
     No. 430, Support Legislation for a Special Service Medal for 
``Atomic'' Veterans, rejected.
     No. 432, Allegiance to the United States of America only, rejected.
     No. 433, Recognition for All Ex-Servicemen for their Participation 
in Nuclear Tests Conducted by the United States of America, rejected.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Do we have any set asides?
     Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE BOB ARNOLD (Post 7283 - California):  I request No. 430 be 
set aside.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Do I hear any other set asides?  Hearing 
no other set asides, the recommendation of the Committee is accepted and 
all other resolutions have been rejected.
     Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE JERRY WILLIAMS (Post 7636 - California):  I make a motion 
that we accept Resolution No. 430.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  I need a second to that motion.
     COMRADE ROBERT MARR (Post 7283 - California):  I second the motion.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  I would like the Chairman to read the 
resolution, please.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF KENT:  Resolution No. 430, Support 
Legislation for a Special Service Medal for ``Atomic''  Veterans.
     ``WHEREAS, members of the United States Armed Forces have 
participated (both willingly and unwillingly), in test detonations of 
nuclear devices, served in Hiroshima or Nagasaki, Japan, following the 
detonation of nuclear bombs, and served and continue to serve at duty 
stations on land, sea, and air where they are exposed to atomic and/or 
radioactive weapons, equipment, and nuclear reactors; and
     ``WHEREAS, the United States Government knew or should have known 
of the potential harm to the health and well-being of these military 
members; and
     ``WHEREAS, radiation exposed veterans and their families have 
suffered because of ill health; and
     ``WHEREAS, the plight of `Atomic' veterans deserves to be 
recognized for their service to our country by a special service medal 
for `Atomic' veterans;
     ``NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars 
of the United States, that we go on record in support of legislation 
which would award a special service medal for `Atomic' veterans.''
     The intent of this resolution is to support legislation which would 
award a special service medal for Atomic'' veterans.  This was submitted 
by the Department of California.
     Comrades, the reason the Committee felt this legislation should be 
rejected is because from the officers' point of view that many veterans 
willingly and unwillingly in other places that have affected their 
health but have not received any such Expeditionary Medal.
     We felt if this medal was given that we would have another medal 
and another medal and another medal.  It is up to this delegation if 
they want to say yes, they suffered, and then if they want them to 
receive a medal, it is all right with me.
     COMRADE JUDGE BROWN (Post 7792 - California):  I speak in favor of 
adoption of this resolution, and it doesn't matter where veterans have 
served in other dangerous places. This is trying to get our foot in the 
door for these veterans. Having been one of the ones that dropped a nuke 
bomb and went by and missed, and knowing that the Air Force and Navy 
especially are not aware or will not acknowledge what aircraft and what 
ship in certain locations at any given time, we need to do this.
     We need the National Organization's help in getting this passed in 
Congress.  We have 40 Congressmen on board and 16 Senators signed on, 
and the Vice-President who just spoke is in favor of this legislation.  
So I would encourage this body to ask the National Organization to go on 
record and support this resolution.  Thank you.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Microphone No. 2.
     COMRADE PAUL CROTEAU (Post 8203 - Florida):  I speak in favor of 
the motion, Comrade Commander-in-Chief, because being with the VAHS, I 
work with veterans, not only ``Atomic'' veterans that have served in 
other areas and suffered undue duress or whatever.
     It doesn't matter if we have to strike one medal or we have to 
strike ten medals.  The fact of the matter is that World War II is over, 
Korea is over, and we know what we are.  A lot of people were innocently 
used, and I think that we owe them a tribute.
     After all, they are our comrades in arms.  I am speaking now as a 
man who has worked in a VA Hospital for five years and have worked in 
different programs, and I have worked with all these people.  Thank you, 
Commander-in-Chief.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 1.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF GUNNER KENT (Post 7972 - Arizona):  I speak 
in favor of this motion.  Too long the veterans, all the information 
about them has been hidden by the government, not released by the 
government.  Everything that happened to them supposedly didn't happen 
to them, but something must have happened to them.
     They are not in perfect health anymore.  To give them a medal to 
show them our appreciation for their service to this country, knowingly 
served in areas where our country knew that nuclear waste was at or 
nuclear radiation was and didn't inform them, I think it is just a very 
small thing that a great organization like the Veterans of Foreign Wars 
can do.  Thank you.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Anything further on the question?  
Anything further on the question?  Hearing none, we will put it to a 
vote.  All those in favor of passing this resolution will signify by 
saying ``aye''; all those opposed will say ``nay''.  The motion carried 
and passed.
     COMRADE RALPH TRADER (Post 2863 - Delaware):  Comrade Commander-in-
Chief, as a member of the Committee on National Security and Foreign 
Affairs, the Chairman did not report what happened with Resolutions 401 
and 402.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Those were the POW/MIA Subcommittee.  We 
have done those.
     COMRADE RALPH TRADER (Post 2863 - Delaware):  There was no report 
on this.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The report was just made by Billy Ray 
Cameron.
     COMRADE RALPH TRADER (Post 2863 - Delaware):  He didn't include 
those.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  They were approved.  Nos. 401 and 402 
were approved.
     COMRADE RALPH TRADER (Post 2863 - Delaware):  Thank  you.  I did 
not hear him announce that.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  That was done by Billy Ray Cameron, 
Subcommittee Chairman.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF KENT:  That is it, Comrade Commander-in-
Chief.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  I want to thank you very much, Chairman 
Kent, and release you and your Committee with my thanks for a job well 
done.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF KENT:  Thank you, Commander-in-Chief.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  We will next have the Committee on 
General Resolutions.  The Chairman is Ray Soden.

              REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON GENERAL RESOLUTIONS

     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SODEN:  Commander-in-Chief and Delegates, 
the Committee on General Resolutions met and I want to thank Vice-
Chairman, an outstanding Past Commander-in-Chief, Clyde R. Lewis, who 
was very helpful in our deliberations.  At this time I will read the 
resolutions that were approved.
     No. 302, Support Legislation for the Relief of Major Nguyen Quy An 
and His Daughter Nguyen Ngoe Kim Quy.
     No. 304, Old Ironside Penny's Campaign, approve.
     No. 305, Endorse 100th/442nd/MIS monument in Los Angeles, approved.
     Comrade Commander-in-Chief, those are the three resolutions that 
have been approved by the Committee.  I move for their adoption.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  I have a motion to adopt those 
resolutions.  Do I have a second?
     JUNIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF JOHN MOON (Post 2873 - Ohio):  In 
the essence of time, I will second the motion.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion has been made and seconded to 
approve the resolutions that have been read by the Chairman.  Is there 
anything on the question?  Hearing none, we will put the matter to a 
vote.  All those in favor will signify by saying ``aye''; all those 
opposed ``nay''.  The ``ayes'' have it.  The resolutions are carried.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SODEN:  Thank you very much, Commander-in-
Chief.  We have two that were rejected.
     Resolution 301, Prevention of Further Memorial Desecration and 
Defamation of Character of the U.S. Intrepid, was rejected.
     Also Resolution 303, Preserve the HOGA(YT-146) for Display, was 
rejected.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Do we have any set asides from either of 
those?
     Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE FRED WONG (Post 1540 - Hawaii):  I request that 303 be set 
aside.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  No. 303 has been set aside.  Any further 
comments?  Any further comments?  Hearing none, 301 is hereby rejected 
as suggested by the Committee.
     On 303, would you like to make a motion to adopt No. 303.
     COMRADE FRED WONG (Post 1540 - Hawaii):  Comrade Commander-in-
Chief, I am Fred Wong, Post 1540, Hawaii.  I make a motion to adopt 
Resolution 303.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Do I have a second to the motion to 
adopt?
     Microphone No. 3.
     COMRADE EDWARD VILLIALUME (Post 6827 - Florida):  I will second 
that motion to adopt.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion has been made and seconded to 
adopt Resolution No. 303.  I would like the Chairman to read it, please, 
with the reasons.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SODEN:  Resolution No. 303, Preserve the 
HOGA(YT-146) for Display.
     ``WHEREAS, the United States Navy Tug (HOGA(YT-146), was a hero of 
the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, rescuing 
sailors and attending to the raging fires of the U.S.S. Arizona and the 
U.S.S. Nevada; and
     ``WHEREAS, the HOGA is the only remaining Naval vessel that has the 
distinction of serving at Pearl Harbor on that day; and
     ``WHEREAS, the HOGA and her crew, led by Chief Boatswain, Mate Joe 
B. McManus, were awarded a citation by Admiral Chester Nimitz for their 
heroism on that day; and
     ``WHEREAS, HOGA is now being made available by the United States 
Navy for transfer to the Memorial Ship Program established under Title 
10, U.S.C. Section 7308; and
     ``WHEREAS, the HOGA has been named by the National Trust for 
Historic Preservation as one of America's Most Endangered Places; and
     ``WHEREAS, the Honolulu-based non-profit organization Friends of 
the HOGA is making application to the Navy to acquire the HOGA for 
permanent display in Hawaii; and
     ``WHEREAS, by Navy regulations Friends of the HOGA must obtain 
private financing in order to acquire HOGA, move her to Hawaii, and 
preserve her for display; 
     ``NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars 
of the United States, that we wholeheartedly support the intentions of 
Friends of the HOGA to move the tug to Hawaii and put her on permanent 
display, and will cooperate with them and assist them in their fund-
raising efforts to the maximum extent allowed by the by-laws and 
policies of the  Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States.''
     This resolution was rejected on the fund-raising aspect of it, and 
the Committee felt that we could not put the organization into a 
position to raise funds for this particular program as we get hundreds 
of requests to do this.  It was suggested, and I would concur with it, 
that it be amended.
     If we will just strike out ``and will cooperate with them and 
assist them in their fund-raising efforts to the maximum extent allowed 
by the by-laws and policies of the Veterans of Foreign Wars'' it will 
take out the fund-raising aspect of it.
     Therefore, I will offer that amendment, Commander-in-Chief, and I 
move for the adoption of the amendment.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  There has been an amendment offered.  Do 
I hear a second to the amendment?
     COMRADE FRED WONG (Post 303 - Hawaii):  I second the motion.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  We have a second to the amendment.  Is 
there any question on the amendment?  Hearing none, we will have the 
question.  All those in favor will signify by saying ``aye''; all those 
opposed ``nay''.  The amendment carries.
     We are voting on the motion, as amended.  All those in favor will 
signify by saying ``aye''; all those opposed ``nay''. The motion carried 
and the resolution is passed, as amended.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SODEN:  Commander-in-Chief, thank you.  I 
want to thank the Committee for their cooperation and for their input.   
Thank you for giving me a great group of Committee members.  As you are 
aware, the Committee on General Resolutions does not get discharged 
until the end of the Convention.  We hope we get no overtime.  Thank 
you.

         REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON VETERANS SERVICE RESOLUTIONS

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  We did not finish like we were supposed 
to yesterday, so we will have the Report of the Committee on Veterans 
Service Resolutions by Past Commander-in-Chief Walter G. Hogan.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF HOGAN:  Comrade Commander-in-Chief Spera, 
the Veterans Service Resolutions Committee convened at 2:00 p.m. Monday, 
August 19, 1986.  Your instructions were read and roll call was taken, 
and preliminary matters were discussed.  The Committee was divided into 
three Subcommittees to carefully deliberate each of the 59 Resolutions 
that were assigned to this Committee.
     The Subcommittees were established as follows:
     Medical Programs and Veterans Benefits, chaired by Paul Curtice 
from Indiana, Vice-Chairman Richard Branson from Georgia.
     The Subcommittee on Employment was chaired by Walter Kula and the 
Vice-Chairman was Gary Kurpius from Alaska.
     The Subcommittee on Benefits was chaired by Tom Hanson from 
Minnesota, and the Vice-Chairman was Al Simmons from Maryland.
     Before proceeding with the report, I want to take a moment to 
express the Committee's appreciation to Frederico Juarbe, Director of 
National Veterans Service, and James Magill, Director of National 
Legislative Service, for the valuable technical guidance which they and 
their staff provided to this Committee.
     I also wish to take this opportunity to thank Past Commander-in-
Chief John Mahan from Montana for serving as Vice-Chairman of this very 
special Committee.  A special note of thanks goes to Jimmy E. Wallace, 
special assistant to the National Veterans Service, who acted as 
Secretary of the Committee and coordinated the results of our 
deliberations.
     Commander-in-Chief, with your permission, I will begin the 
Committee Report by presenting those resolutions which the Committee 
recommends be approved as written.  Past Commander-in-Chief Mahan will 
then proceed to report those resolutions which were approved, as 
amended, and finally I will conclude the report by presenting the 
resolutions the Committee recommends for rejection.
     If for any reason you, the delegates at this Convention, would like 
to have a resolution set aside, please so indicate after I have 
completed the segment of the report.  I will now proceed by reading the 
resolution numbers which the Committee recommends for approval as 
written.
     They are No. 602, No. 604, No. 605, No. 615, No. 620, No. 623, No. 
629, No. 630, No. 631, No. 642, No. 646, No. 647, No. 648, No. 650, No. 
651, No. 652, No. 653, No. 654, No. 655, No. 656, No. 657, No. 658 and 
No. 659.
     Commander-in-Chief, at this time I ask the delegates if there are 
any resolutions they wish to set aside?  Commander-in-Chief, I now move 
that all resolutions recommended for approval by your Committee be 
accepted by the delegates attending this 97th National Convention.
     COMRADE ANTHONY PISCOPO (Post 529 - Massachusetts):  I second that 
motion.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion has been made and seconded to 
accept the recommendation of the Committee and approve the resolutions.  
Is there anything on the question? Hearing nothing on the question, we 
will put it to a vote.  All those in favor will signify by saying 
``aye''; all those opposed ``nay''.  The ``ayes'' have it.  The motion 
is carried.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF JOHN MAHAN:  These resolutions are 
approved, as amended:
     Nos. 601, 603, 606, 608, 609, 610, 611, 613, 614, 620, 627, 628, 
635, 639, 641, 643, 645, 648 and 649.  I move that they be adopted, as 
amended.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE BRUCE WEISE (Post 8057 - Wisconsin):  I second the motion.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion has been made and seconded to 
accept the resolutions, as amended.  On the question, is there any 
discussion?  On the question, is there any discussion?  Hearing none on 
the question, all those in favor will signify by saying ``aye''; all 
those opposed ``nay''. The ``ayes'' have it.  The motion passes.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF HOGAN:  I finally will present the 
resolutions on which the Committee recommendation was for rejection in 
favor of other resolutions, or just rejected.  Again, if a delegate 
would like any of these resolutions to be set aside, make it known by 
the resolution number and request such action after I complete the 
report on this final group of resolutions.
     They are No. 607, No. 612, No. 616, rejected in favor of 650.
                     No. 617, rejected in favor of No. 601.
                     No. 618, rejected in favor of No. 657.
                     No. 619, rejected in favor of No. 652.
                     No. 621, No. 622, rejected in favor of 651.
                     No. 624, rejected in favor of No. 603.
                     No. 625, rejected in favor of No. 650.
                     No. 626, rejected in favor of No. 650.
                     No. 622, rejected in favor of No. 601.
                     No. 633, rejected in favor of No. 620.
                     No. 634, rejected in favor of No. 653.
                     No. 636, rejected in favor of No. 651.
                     No. 637, rejected in favor of No. 620.
                     No. 638, rejected in favor of No. 601.
                     No. 640, rejected in favor of No. 654.
                     No. 644, rejected in favor of No. 642.
     Commander-in-Chief, this concludes resolutions recommended for 
rejection by your Committee.  I then ask if any delegates have any 
resolutions from this group which they wish to be set aside?
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 2.
     COMRADE PAUL CROTEAU (Post 8203 - Florida):  Commander-in-Chief, 
Paul Croteau, Post 8203, North Port, Florida.  I move to set aside No. 
624.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  You have set aside No. 624.
     Microphone No. 3.
     COMRADE RONALD TYLER (Post 1462 - Pennsylvania):  Comrade 
Commander-in-Chief, Ron Tyler, Post 1462, Past Department Commander of 
Pennsylvania, requests set aside of Resolution No. 621.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Are there any further set asides?  Any 
further set asides?  Hearing none, we will accept the recommendation of 
the Committee and all those others will be rejected.
     The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 2 on Resolution 624.  Do you 
care to make a motion on that?
     COMRADE PAUL CROTEAU (Post 8203 - Florida):  I move that we accept 
Resolution No. 624, which has been rejected in favor of 603.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  You want to make a motion to accept 624.
     COMRADE PAUL CROTEAU (Post 8203 - Florida):  That's right.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Let me have your name, Post and 
Department.
     COMRADE PAUL CROTEAU (Post 8203 - Florida):  I am Paul Croteau, 
Post 8203, North Port, Florida.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Now, let me see if I can get a second to 
this.  Is there a second to the motion?
     COMRADE JAY COHILL (Post 4194 - Florida):  I will second that 
motion.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion has been made and seconded 
that we accept Resolution 624.
     On the question, Microphone No. 2.
     COMRADE PAUL CROTEAU (Post 8203 - Florida):  Comrade Commander-in-
Chief, I think Resolution 603 requires -- I am 80 years old, and I am a 
little nervous.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  That is okay.  Take your time.
     COMRADE PAUL CROTEAU (Post 8203 - Florida):  I think Resolution No. 
624 should be accepted because No. 603 negates legislation that --
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Comrade, let me suggest something to 
you.  Can I have the Chairman read 624 and 603, and that way the 
comrades will all know what you are talking about.  Just hold it, and I 
will let you come right back to the microphone.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF HOGAN:  Resolution 624, Constitutional 
Power to Fund Veterans Earned Entitlements.
     ``WHEREAS, the adequate funding for our Veterans earned 
entitlements continues to be in jeopardy; and
      ``WHEREAS, we, the members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, are 
constantly striving to defend, support and comply with the Constitution 
of America; and
     ``WHEREAS, the Constitution of the United States grants power only 
to the U.S. Congress to issue all U.S.A. money for all government 
expenditures, such as adequate funding for our Veterans earned 
entitlements; and
     ``WHEREAS, the adequate funding for Veterans earned entitlements 
continues to be in jeopardy because the Federal Reserve Bank note has 
(since the year 1964) completely replaced the United States note; and
     ``WHEREAS, the Federal Reserve note (credit money) has directly 
accelerated the increase of the national debt, which has directly 
accelerated the increase of the annual interest payments from the U.S. 
Treasury to the Federal Reserve Bank, which has directly accelerated the 
annual increase of the national deficit, which has directly rendered it 
to be mathematically impossible to balance the national budget, which 
has directly resulted in the act of our government borrowing more 
interest-bearing credit money from the Federal Reserve Bank, which has 
directly caused great devaluation of the U.S.A. dollar, which has 
directly caused inadequate funding for our Veterans earned entitlements; 
and
     ``WHEREAS, the credit check clearinghouse functions, which is now 
under the authority of the Federal Reserve bankers does deprive the 
U.S.A. government from regulating the value of the U.S.A. dollar, which 
directly deprives adequate funding for our Veterans earned entitlements;
     ``NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars 
of the United States, that the VFW members invoke the United States 
Congress to exercise its constitutional power to issue all U.S.A. money 
(interest free) for all U.S.A. government expenditures and to place all 
credit clearinghouse functions under the jurisdiction of the U.S.A. 
government, thereby enabling the U.S.A. government to solve its national 
debt, its deficit, and to balance the national budget, thus enabling 
adequate funding the Veterans earned entitlements.''
     That is Resolution No. 624.
     Resolution No. 603, the Department of Veterans Affairs Budget.
     ``WHEREAS, there are presently more than 27 million veterans of 
whom over 10 million have reached an age where they required increased 
health care including long-term care; and
     ``WHEREAS, the Department of Veterans Affairs' budget has fallen 
from 4.3 percent of federal budget outlays in 1970 to a estimated 2.4 
percent in fiscal year `95; and
     ``WHEREAS, the laws administered by the Department of  Veterans 
Affairs authorizing benefits for veterans, their dependents and 
survivors are classified into the following general categories: 
compensation for service-connected disabilities and death, pension for 
income maintenance of  veterans and survivors, educational and training 
assistance and loans, servicemen's life insurance, veterans' life 
insurance, hospital and medical care service, nursing home and 
domiciliary care, including state veterans' home construction funds, 
health manpower training, medical and prosthetic research and burial 
benefits; and
     ``WHEREAS, it appears that the facilities which the Department of 
Veterans Affairs presently operates will not accommodate by any measure 
the anticipated demand for services over the next 20 years; and
     ``WHEREAS, the Department of Veterans Affairs has stated that by 
the year 2000, a 68-percent increase in hospital beds will be needed 
with special geriatric evaluation units at each medical center, and that 
outpatient clinics should be able to support 26 million visits with the 
appropriate prevention, geriatric and specialized services; and that 25 
Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Centers be established; and
     ``WHEREAS, veterans who served honorably in our Armed Forces during 
periods of war or hostility have rendered a very special service to our 
great nation; and if in need of health care, should be timely provided 
the finest care by the  Department of Veterans Affairs;
     ``NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars 
of the United States that we urge the Congress of the United States to 
pass a budget and appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs 
which will fully fund and maintain the integrity of the benefits and 
entitlements program and enhance Department of Veterans Affairs health-
care system.''
     The reason why 624 was rejected over 603 is because 603 called for 
a budget for the Department of Veterans Affairs that will take care of 
all of the commitments and will fund all the benefits that the veterans 
are entitled to, whereas, No. 624 is a very proud resolution that is 
asking for exactly the same thing in essence.
     It says that we should have enough money in the Department of 
Veterans Affairs budget to fund those entitlements of veterans.  No. 603 
does that, and that is the reason why 624 was rejected in favor of 603.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Comrade, if you would like to come to 
the microphone, I will give you some time to speak on it.
     COMRADE PAUL CROTEAU (Post 8203 - Florida):  Thank you, Comrade 
Commander-in-Chief.  Resolution 603 requires legislation from the U.S. 
Congress.  Resolution No. 624 does not need Constitutional legislation 
to be passed because Article I, Section 8, Clause 5, gives the power to 
Congress to issue United States money to fund all veterans' earned 
entitlements.
     However, Congress needs to be reminded that they can exercise its 
power to issue adequate funds for veterans' earned entitlements.  Now, 
every CPA should know that it is mathematically impossible to balance 
the budget with monies that are issued by the Federal Reserve National 
Bank.
     The national budget can only be bound by money issued by the U.S. 
Congress in compliance with the Constitution of the United States.  So 
as to being adequate funds for veterans' earned entitlements, I move 
that we vote to accept Resolution 624 independently of Resolution 603, 
which is a very good resolution.  It is the same resolution, but 603 has 
to go through Congress and legislation, and 624 does not.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE JIMMY WALLACE (Post 1503 - Virginia): Commander-in-Chief 
and Comrades, I would urge this delegation to reject the motion that the 
comrade has put forth.  I would urge this delegation to reject the 
motion that the comrade has put forth.
     The reasons he is citing there, if you listen to what was read 
about issuing the tax-free money and have the government go and get 
interest-free loans, you can't go into the bigger banks and do that.  
That is doing away with the Federal Reserve also.
     If you really think about that motion that came forth that is not a 
veterans issue.  It has nothing to do with veterans' benefits.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Anything further on the motion?  
Anything further on the motion?  Hearing none, we will now vote on the 
motion.  All those in favor of approving No. 624 will signify by saying 
``aye''; all those opposed will say ``nay''.  The motion  is defeated.
     On No. 621, someone else set aside No. 621.
     The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 3.
     COMRADE RONALD TYLER (Post 1462 - Pennsylvania):  Comrade 
Commander-in-Chief, Ron Tyler, Post 1462, Department of Pennsylvania and 
Past Department Commander.  I move to accept, as amended, Resolution No. 
621.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion is on the floor.  Do I have a 
second?
     COMRADE CHARLES BEISTLINE (Post 6374 - Pennsylvania):  I second the 
motion.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion has been made and seconded 
that we accept Resolution 621.
     On the question, I recognize Microphone No. 3.
     COMRADE RONALD TYLER (Post 1462 - Pennsylvania):  Comrade 
Commander, once again, I am Ron Tyler, Post 1462, Department of 
Pennsylvania, Past Department Commander.  There is an amendment to this 
presently at the podium.  I would ask that the amendment be read.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  I will ask the Chairman to read it.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF HOGAN:  Commander Paul, we met with the 
delegation from Pennsylvania and we submitted to the Committee the 
amendment and the Committee has approved the amendment.
     ``I would move at this time, with his permission, that we move the 
question for acceptance, as amended.''
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  It has been moved.  Is there a second to 
that motion?
     COMRADE CHARLES BEISTLINE (Post 6704 - Pennsylvania):  I will 
second it.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  It has been moved and seconded.  Now, on 
the question, all those in favor will signify by saying ``aye''; all 
those opposed.  The ``ayes'' have it. 
     Now, on the motion itself, the motion down on the floor is to 
approve No. 621, as amended.  All those in favor will signify by saying 
``aye''; all those opposed by saying ``nay''.  The ``ayes'' have it.  
The motion is carried.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF HOGAN:  Commander-in-Chief, this concludes 
my Report of the Committee on Veterans Service.  I wish to take this 
opportunity to thank the Committee members who are here, and unless 
there is further business to be accomplished, I recommend this Committee 
be discharged.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you, Past Commander-in-Chief 
Hogan.  I will now discharge you and your Committee with thanks of the 
Commander-in-Chief of this Convention for a job well done, and a special 
thanks to the staff members who acted as advisors to this Committee.  
Thank you very much.
     Do we have anything else?  We have one more report. At this time I 
would like to call on the Chairman of the Committee on Americanism and 
Community Activities, Past Commander-in-Chief Eric Sandstrom.

                         REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON 
                 AMERICANISM  AND COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES

     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF ERIC SANDSTROM:  Commander-in-Chief, I 
would like to thank you in behalf of the Committee that you appointed 
for all did a fine job, especially my Vice-Chairman, Jack Carney, from 
the great State of Florida, who did an outstanding job.
     I want to thank you, Jack, and Mike Gormalley for assisting us on 
this Committee.  I will read the resolutions that we have recommended 
for adoption.
     Resolution No. 101, Support Volunteer Protect Act.
     Resolution No. 102, Request for Congressional Review of the Federal 
Flag Code.
     Resolution No. 103, Mandate English as the Official Language of the 
United States; and Resolution No. 106, which is Flag Desecration.
     I move adoption of these four resolutions.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF JACK CARNEY (Post 4642 - Florida):  I 
second the motion.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion has been made and seconded to 
adopt the resolutions as read.  On the question, hearing none, we will 
call for a vote.  All those in favor will signify by saying ``aye''; all 
those opposed ``nay''.  The ``ayes'' have it.  The motion is carried.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SANDSTROM:  I will read the numbers of the 
ones that we rejected.  They were Resolution No. 104, Independence Day 
Bell Ringing.
     No. 105, No Age Limit for Sons of VFW.
     No. 107, rejected in favor of 103, and Resolution No. 108,  Sons  
of  Vets.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Do I have anyone to set aside any of 
these resolutions?  Are there any set asides?
     Microphone No. 2, are you waiting to set aside something?  If there 
are no set asides, then we will accept the recommendation of the 
Committee and those resolutions have been rejected.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SANDSTROM:  That concludes our job.  Are we 
being fired?
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Yes.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SANDSTROM:  Thank you, again, Commander-in-
Chief.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  I release you and your Committee with 
the thanks of the Convention for a job well done.  I thank you, Jack, 
for moving my chair.

                  PRESENTATION OF BUDDY POPPY WINNERS

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  We have the winners of the National 
Buddy Poppy Contests.  At this time I will call to the podium Jim 
Rowoldt.
     COMRADE JAMES ROWOLDT:  Thank you, Comrade Commander-in-Chief.  A 
few years ago, the National Headquarters decided to honor those 
Departments who were able to achieve over one million sales or 
distribution of the buddy poppies.  It is a pleasure for me today for 
the Commander-in-Chief to present plaques to the Departments of 
Illinois, California and Texas.
     Illinois, this past year, had 1,049,000 sales. The Department of 
California was second with 1,029,000 and the Department of Texas was 
third with 1,027,000.  So you can see those three states were within 
20,000.
     Thank you for these three Departments, and thank you to all the 
comrades of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States.
     I know it is difficult with the programs these days, but I know all 
of you are out there trying.  We had the display contest and hopefully 
everyone was able to go to the lower level and review these displays.  
It was very successful.  It was one of our largest in the last five 
years, and if you missed it, it is your loss.  Thank you.

                      WINNERS OF INSURANCE DRAWING

     ASSISTANT QUARTERMASTER GENERAL LARRY MAHER:  Briefly, I would like 
to announce the insurance drawing.
     First, for yesterday for $25, Jimmy M. Cook, Post  5789, Missouri, 
has not picked up his award.  Also Jack Egerton, from Post 3015, New 
Mexico, has not picked up his $25 award.
     Today's winners are for $25, John S. Masek, Post 1500, Ohio.
     For $50, Joseph W. Stein, Post 1341, Arkansas; and for $100, Frank 
Jarosfenski, Jr., Post 8795, Pennsylvania.
     Those awards can be picked up in the hall back behind here.  Thank you.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Let me make a couple of   announcements 
before we close up.  First, let me say thank you to all of you who are 
here.  I really appreciate your staying here and showing your dedication 
and your sharing in the business of the VFW since that is what we are 
here for.
     I have a couple of announcements I did earlier, but I will repeat 
them again.  Maine, New Hampshire and D.C. are having a reception 
tomorrow in Room 1056 of the Galt House East.  If you are a Past 
Department Commander for the year 1978-'79, go from here to the Galt 
House East, Room 1446, and meet with Eric Sandstrom.
     The Department of Kentucky and the Department Commander Billy Lyons 
cordially invite all delegates to an open house at the Hirschborn Hotel 
at 7:00 p.m. this evening.  There will be bus service from the 
Convention Center starting at 6:30 at 4th and Jefferson Streets.
     The Department Commanders for `95-'96 and the `96-'97 Commanders 
and the Senior Vice Commanders for `96-'97, there is a reception this 
afternoon from 3:00 to 5:00 in the Grand Ballroom of the Hyatt Regency.  
You should have gotten invitations on it.  We will see you there from 
3:00 to 5:00.
     There being no further business to transact this morning, I will 
call on our Chaplain for our Closing Prayer.
     (Whereupon, the Salute to the Color was given at this time followed 
by the Benediction by Reverend Lyle Kell.)
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  This meeting stands in recess until 9:00 
o'clock tomorrow morning.
     (Whereupon, the session was recessed at 1:20 o'clock p.m.)


                        THIRD BUSINESS SESSION
                  THURSDAY MORNING, AUGUST 22, 1996


     (The Third Business Session of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the 
United States, held in the Commonwealth Convention Center, Louisville, 
Kentucky, was called to order at 9:00 o'clock a.m., with Commander-in-
Chief Paul Spera presiding.)

                            CALL TO ORDER

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Sergeant-at-Arms, prepare the room for 
the Salute to the Colors.
     SERGEANT-AT-ARMS SARVER:  Yes, sir.
     (Whereupon, Sergeant-at-Arms Sarver led the Convention in the 
Salute to the Colors and the Pledge of Allegiance.)
     (Whereupon, National Chaplain Lyle Kell gave the Opening Prayer.)


                    REPORT OF CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  At this time I would call on Richard 
Trombla, Chairman of the Credentials Committee, for its report.


     COMRADE RICHARD TROMBLA (Post 1174 - Kansas):  Comrade Commander-
in-Chief, I am Richard Trombla, Post 1174, the Department of Kansas and 
National Credentials Committee Chairman.  This is a temporary report as 
of last night.
     Delegates, 13,081; Department Commanders, 49; National Officers, 
39; Past Commanders-in-Chief, 26; and one Member-at-Large.  That, 
comrades, is a temporary report.  The total is 13,196.
     I would like to remind you the following Department and Council 
members have not registered yet at this Convention.  They are the 
Commanders of Central America, Connecticut, Iowa, New York, the Pacific 
Areas and Puerto Rico.  The Council member is from District E.  Those 
people have not registered at this Convention at this time.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Convention Rules provide if there 
were any further resolutions to be introduced to this Convention, they 
had to have been in the hands of our National Adjutant General this 
morning by 9:00 o'clock a.m. 
     There having been none, there will be no further business for the 
General Resolutions Committee.  I hereby dismiss and discharge that 
Committee with my best wishes and the best wishes of the Convention for 
a job well done.  Thank you, Jim, and your Committee.


            PRESENTATION OF ``CONSECUTIVE YEARS OF MEMBERSHIP''
                  CITATION TO THE DEPARTMENT OF FLORIDA

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  At this time I would like to call to 
this podium the Immediate Past All-American Commander of the Department 
of Florida to receive an award. Good morning.
     ``Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, Certificate of 
Commendation to the Department of Florida in recognition of 41 
consecutive years of membership growth, having seen attainment of over 
four decades of continuous membership gain by the Department of Veterans 
of Foreign Wars of the United States.
     ``In Witness Whereof, we have hereunto set our hands and the 
official seal of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, this 
19th day of August, 1996.''  This has been signed by Paul Spera, 
Commander-in-Chief, and Larry W. Rivers, Adjutant General.
     To you and all the comrades of the Department of Florida, 
congratulations and best wishes for your 42nd consecutive years which I 
know you will attain this year.  He says Spike did it all.
     COMRADE ROBERT WOOD (Department of Florida):  Comrades, one of the 
things that Paul Spera has stayed away from is a visit to Florida.  I 
took him to Gainesville, and that was the first time he had ever had a 
Commander-in-Chief there.  So they were taking him around to different 
areas to talk to different people.
     He stopped in this one room, and the nurse said this is Miss 
America a few years back.  Well, he went in there and she was the 
runner-up or the contestant for the Miss America Pageant in 1910.  This 
lady, you can imagine Mother Theresa, and that is her.  Paul has never 
been lost for words.
     He comes up and said, ``How do you do?''  He said, ``By the way, 
are you a member?''  She said, ``No, I am a Christian.''  Thank you all 
very much.  I am so glad so many states helped Florida when their 
members come down, because they don't retire, they just come down and 
work for us. 
     Now, I want to thank all of you for this award.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  What he didn't tell you,  when we walked 
into the room, the first thing she said was, ``Hey, how is Spike?''  
Now, you go and explain that to the Florida delegation.

                     INTRODUCTION OF SYDDIA LEE-CHEE, 
                        DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY,
                         U.S. SAVINGS BOND PROGRAM

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Our next guest is Syddia Lee-Chee, 
Manager of the Office of National Organizations and Federal Programs for 
the Department of Treasury's Savings Bond Program.  In that capacity, 
she is responsible for promoting ownership of U.S. Savings Bonds to 
members of hundreds of national associations across America.  She is 
also one of the Treasury Department's leaders in implementing a program 
to market savings bonds to the Hispanic community in the United States 
and Puerto Rico.
     A native of Panama, Ms. Lee-Chee distinguished herself as a student 
by founding the International Students Association in Business and 
Economics.  Upon graduation, she worked for the Gillette Company in 
Puerto Rico, and also served as the Executive Director of the National 
Advertising Council in Panama.  She also received a Certificate of 
Advanced Study from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., where she 
studied International Business.
     Please give a warm VFW welcome to Syddia Lee-Chee.

                    PRESENTATION BY MS. SYDDIA LEE-CHEE

     MS. LEE-CHEE:  Good morning, Commander-in-Chief Spera.  
Distinguished guests and delegates of the Veterans of Foreign Wars 97th 
National Convention, thank you for inviting me to this meeting and 
taking the time to hear the Treasury's message about savings bonds.
     I think that it is obvious you need no introduction to savings 
bonds because bonds, as we know them, had their beginning back in 1941.  
We were about to enter World War II.  Early in the program, the Treasury 
Department had no way to market bonds, so they called on the public, 
corporations, the  banking industry, federal and state governments and, 
of course,  our armed forces in helping with the patriotic effort to 
promote bonds.
     Americans responded in ways that could not be imagined.  People 
gave of their time, energy and resources to make the savings bond 
program a success.  They volunteered, which is a very unique 
characteristic of the program.  It is the proud tradition of the savings 
bond program and it is played out by the critical and essential 
volunteer elite of which you are members.
     Members of the nationwide PAC have over half a million committed 
Americans who each year give their time and energy to the cause of 
selling bonds.  Believe me, it never has and it never will happen 
without you.  This country is in your debt.
     Your delegates and one of your members, who is serving as the 
National Savings Bond Program, is what keeps us going.  Savings bonds 
are not only a proud part of our past, they are for the future.  Why are 
savings bonds about the future?  Because savings is about putting aside 
a little money today for a better tomorrow.
     One of the primary purposes of the savings bond program is to 
encourage Americans to save more.  This is where  you come in.  It is 
you, our community leaders, who enable the savings bond program.  It is 
you, the leaders of a very large network of citizens, who help further 
this program's important goals.
     For example, consider the potential reach of your publication, not 
only your members but to anyone else who needs it.  Our job is this low, 
steady education of our fellow citizens.  It is not always glamorous, 
but in the long run, there is a big payoff.
     One of the savings bonds' programs very successful effort in 
educating children is our Post contest for students in grades four to 
six.  Through this contest, we have a ripple effect of awareness of 
savings and bonds to parents, grandparents, teachers and our community.
     So we begin very simple and the payoff can be great. The payoff can 
increase financially and pay off in more dedication and pay off in more 
comfortable retirement. Savings bonds have always been a good investment 
and they are a good investment today, particularly since we updated them 
last year.
     First, we want to provide small investors with market face rates 
with a fair return on their money right from the start.  We also wanted 
to make savings bonds simpler and easier for the message to understand.  
The new rate of structure, just ask bond family to define it.
     That is security of federal income on interest earnings for the 
redemption, and avoid its state and local income tax. For those who 
qualify, you are to exclude bond interest from income when the bonds are 
used for college education costs for yourself, a spouse or a dependent 
child. When we sell bonds, we are really selling our citizens on the 
future.
     I ask you to continue to work with us by encouraging your family, 
your neighbors and co-workers to save.  Many people don't realize that 
saving on a regular basis is a real benefit.  It is really a benefit.  
It is the only way to build our future.  Please accept the Treasury's 
thanks for all your past efforts on behalf of this unique American 
program.
     Before I close, Benny Bachand, will you please come to the podium? 
Benny, on behalf of the Treasury Department, I want to present you with 
this eagle. It is a unique award, a symbol of our thanks to you and all 
the members of the VFW for your continued patriotism in the U.S. bond 
program.  I look forward to working with all of you in the future.  
Thank you.
     COMRADE BENNY BACHAND:  Thanks.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Very shortly, we will be escorting our 
National President to the podium. Before I do, let me make an 
announcement.  The Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief has been exhibiting 
some flu symptoms for the last few days.  Last night they took him to 
the VA Hospital.
     They sent him back to the hotel sometime in the middle of the night 
and they took him back to the VA Hospital. He is very severely 
dehydrated.  His blood pressure dropped precipitously. They now have him 
in intensive care only so they can monitor him as they attempt to 
rehydrate him again.
     He is hoping to be able to be out of the hospital and back here 
with us again tomorrow morning.  As we get any updates, while we are in 
session, we will let you know what they are.  It is not a 
life-threatening situation, but it certainly is something that is 
serious enough for them to be watching.  So we will all keep him in our 
prayers today.
     Sergeants-at-Arms, are we ready?  Will you check on it for me, 
please.  While you are doing that, we will make one more presentation, 
George.  Let me at this time call to the microphone, to this podium, the 
Chairman of the VFW Political Action Committee, Howard Vander Clute, for 
a presentation.

                 PRESENTATION OF GOLDEN EAGLE AWARD TO 
                       COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA
                 BY THE VFW POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE

     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF VANDER CLUTE:  Thank you, Commander-in-
Chief.  I have two pieces of business that I need  to do.  One is the 
presentation and one is to correct the record so that we have an 
accurate account for this Convention. I reviewed yesterday the written 
ballots that were reported in writing and the electronic ballot.  On the 
question that came before the VFW-PAC, whether to endorse Robert Dole as 
the presidential candidate, the vote was four yes, two no and one 
passed, one absent.  It is necessary for us to get that reported 
accurately.
     Commander-in-Chief, we want to on behalf of the Board, and I speak 
on behalf of all of us as well as the staff in Washington, to present 
you with this plaque in recognition  of your continuous support of the 
VFW-PAC.  I want everyone to know that this particular plaque is 
bestowed upon you in special recognition of your physical support of 
$500 that is a personal check, on behalf of the VFW-PAC and further the 
aims and ideals of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States.  
We are indeed grateful, Commander-in-Chief, for your support.  
     This is an award that goes to every Commander-in-Chief, again in 
recognition of his support philosophically of the VFW-PAC and for 
campaigning on our behalf for the contributions and for the integrity 
that the PAC has in selecting candidates that best represent the 
position of the  VFW.
     Commander-in-Chief, you have been outspoken and articulated towards 
our operations in Washington.  We appreciate it very much.  And you, 
sir, deserve this very much.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you very much.  It is a pair of 
eagles.  I am glad that Bob Currieo is not here. He will try to take 
them home with him.  He loves these.
     Sergeant-at-Arms, you will kindly escort to this podium the 
National President of the Ladies Auxiliary for the Veterans of Foreign 
Wars of the United States, Mrs. Helen Lenehan.

        INTRODUCTION OF LADIES AUXILIARY PRESIDENT HELEN LENEHAN

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Comrades, it is indeed a very special 
honor for me to present this next lady.  She has over many years in her 
history of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Veterans of Foreign Wars 
performed duties that have enhanced all of the programs of our 
organization.
     She has served her organization endless hours as she has climbed to 
greater heights.  She has gone from her local auxiliary level through 
the level of her district, through the level of her department in 
Colorado to ultimately climb to the top and become the National 
President of the Ladies Auxiliary.
     This morning I attended her meeting and at that time I indicated to 
all of the ladies present that there have been many wonderful past 
National Presidents in our organization. We have been truly blessed in 
the leadership of that Ladies Auxiliary.
     I also told them that, in my opinion, I have the best.  I have the 
best of the best.  She is warm, she is generous, she is hard working, 
and she epitomizes all the things that the Ladies Auxiliary stands for.
     At this time let me present to you the National President of our 
Ladies Auxiliary to the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States 
from the great State of Colorado, ``Climbing to Greater Heights'', Mrs. 
Helen Lenehan.
      (Whereupon, the assembly extended a prolonged standing ovation.)

             RESPONSE - LADIES AUXILIARY PRESIDENT LENEHAN

     PRESIDENT LENEHAN:  Thank you very much.  Commander-in-Chief Spera, 
National Officers and VFW Members: 
     I am very pleased to have this opportunity to greet you once more 
as National President of the Ladies Auxiliary to the Veterans of Foreign 
Wars.  This has been a terrific year for the Ladies Auxiliary.  We 
topped $3 million in our Cancer Aid and Research Fund for the eighth 
year in a row.
     We continue our sponsorship of the National Veterans Wheelchair 
Games, and we volunteered 2.9 million hours in hospitals around the 
country.  For my special project this year, we volunteered 164,560 hours 
and donated $862,933 to benefit homeless veterans.
      I am very proud when see the `95-'96 program achievements.  In 
this time, it seems very difficult to increase our membership, but I am 
very pleased that we came so close to 100 percent this year with our 
final total reaching 99.165 percent, for a total of 758,891 members.  I 
know that you are equally proud of the VFW achievements this past year, 
and we are all proud to be a part of what we have achieved together in 
your efforts.
     One outstanding program we worked on this year was the Courtesy 
Calling Card Program.  I am very proud to say that the members of the 
Ladies Auxiliary contributed 52 percent, or $16,556 for this excellent 
program.  My sincere thanks to all of you for your assistance to the 
Auxiliary during this past year and also to me personally.
     I know many of you were very, very involved when I made my official 
visits to the various states. I want to particularly thank all of you 
for everything you did in the past year.  I also feel that I have the 
very best.  I know I have the very best Commander-in-Chief that any 
National President has ever, ever had.
     We have worked so closely together, and Paul and Joanne, and Lee 
and I have become lifetime very special friends because of our work this 
year.  Paul, there are no words I can say but thank you to you for your 
kindness and your wonderful, wonderful hospitality that you have shown 
to Lee and I.
     I have a few last little gifts that I brought for you.  If you will 
come up, please, Paul.  I know that all of you are very aware that Paul 
loves Oreos.  Many of you throughout the state and all my auxiliaries of 
sisters have given him a lot of Oreos.
     Paul, this is my last contribution.  First of all, here is a 
nightshirt, ``I Am An Oreo Lover.''  One of your commanders made those 
in Arizona, traveled 400 miles to pick up this Oreo candle for you.  
Here is another Oreo T-shirt.  This is my last contribution.
     Here is some little thing for your ice cream.  Here are some Oreos.  
Here is a cup to tell you how to eat an Oreo cookie.  Here is an Oreo 
magnet for you.  I have spent so much money this past year on Oreo 
cookies, and all this other Oreo paraphernalia that today I set up a 
stand in town and I sold orange slices for ten cents apiece.  I hope you 
enjoy the fun.
     Lee, please come up here.  Here is a little gift to you and Joanne 
for all of your kindness to us.  As I said, there is no way in the world 
that I could have accomplished this if it wasn't for my husband, Lee.  I 
thank him from the bottom of my heart for giving up six whole years and 
doing all those wonderful things for me and his full support from the 
bottom of my heart.  Thank you, Lee.
     Joanne and Paul, it has been a wonderful year.  I have appreciated 
all your love and your support.  Here is just a little gift, and I would 
like for you to open it.  It is a crystal eagle.  From the Ladies 
Auxiliary, I would like to present you this set of flags to remember our 
year together.
     Paul, one of your Commanders brought you a meal from McDonald's, a 
Happy Meal from McDonald's.  I also want to present to you my Chief of 
Staff, Pat Mortensen.  Once again, Commander, thank you.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Let me officially, for those of who you 
don't know, introduce my wife, Joanne.  Thank you.  I had the 
opportunity at the ladies meeting to thank her for her patience, her 
love and her understanding for the last 30 years, and for the next 50.
     Sergeant-at-Arms, will you kindly escort our guests from the hall 
down the center aisle.

               INTRODUCTION OF MR. JAMES CHANCELLOR

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Please welcome James Chancellor, a 
Vietnam veteran and VFW member from Post 5635, Hobart, Indiana, who is 
here to present military service rings he has designed and created to 
recognize individuals who have served in our armed forces.
     Today he will present rings to Past Commander-in-Chief Jack Carney, 
Past Commander-in-Chief Jim Kimery, and from the VFW Foundation, Robbie 
Fazen-Marchant.
     Now, James Chancellor.

       PRESENTATION OF MILITARY SERVICE RINGS BY MR. CHANCELLOR

     COMRADE JAMES CHANCELLOR (Post 5365 - Indiana):  Good morning, 
friends.  My name is Jim Chancellor.  I am very grateful to be here.  I 
am honored to be with the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and I am personally 
thankful for the kindred spirit of all past warriors.
     In World War I a poem was written by Lieutenant Colonel John Gray.  
It says, ``To you with bitter hands we glow the torch.  It adorns the 
whole house.  If he breaks faith with those that die, we shall not see 
their poppies glow in Flander's Field.''
     I want to take a minute to talk to you about that torch, about war 
and the spirit of the war hero.  Commitment and effort and doubt know no 
boundaries.  They stand race, religion and time and place.  No one will 
argue that Sitting Bull, Patton or Westmoreland were great leaders and 
heroes to their men, although they lived in very adverse times.
     We live in the greatest country in the world, and it is because of 
the spirit of the warrior, that spirit is the common thread that binds 
us all together.  Our leaders of the past, like Grant or Lee or Powell 
and Schwarzkopf, they have, indeed, passed the torch.
     Not only are they the leaders, it is people like Audie Murphy, the 
Sam Davidsons, the Tony Jewels and the Larry Rivers that made us proud 
and the spirit of the warrior, that legend of the warrior will continue 
to grow and will never die.  I have been in war.  I was with the 115th 
Helicopter Company in  Vietnam.
     I was a gunner on the helicopter that was shot down and I received 
a Purple Heart and received the Medal for Valor.  During my days in 
Vietnam, I cried as I embraced a new found friend who died in my arms.  
I laughed with the man who was a stranger to me just a week earlier when 
he shared letters from his little sister and showed me pictures of the 
newborn baby brother.
     I feared sometimes when I laid my head down to sleep, and the 
endless prayers I prayed, sometimes when I walked, sometimes when I ate, 
but mostly when I fought.  We shared the same experiences of the war 
that you and I have experienced and everyone in this building have 
experienced.  They are with me today just like I am sure they are with 
you.
     I give lectures at high schools and colleges.  I talk to today's 
children about their parents and about their grandparents and how they 
might react in certain situations and why they react in certain 
situations.
     Many of our young will never be called on to be warriors on the 
battlefield, but everyone must know that freedom is not free, that 
sometimes it takes fighting and sometimes it takes dying to keep freedom 
strong.  War has changed us all, everyone in this building.
     Before I went to Vietnam, I sat down with my father.  Dad was a 
belly gunner in World War II, and he told me that the war would change 
me forever.  I didn't understand that at the time.  He told me that my 
pursuit for freedom would always be strong, that I would not love him, 
my family or even my own son like I did.  I didn't understand him then.
     It has been 30 years since I have had that conversation and today 
in front of you I can tell you that I understand him.  My father passed 
away several years ago, but he is with me every day of my life.  His 
spirit is with me, his spirit of the warrior, the spirit that is with 
all of you today.
     General MacArthur said, ``Old soldiers never die, they just fade 
away.''  He is absolutely correct.  The spirit lives on.  It is this 
courage and bravery that we all share.  Anyone who is willing to 
sacrifice, anyone who is willing to fight and perhaps die to keep 
America strong is a warrior that I respect.
     From Gettysburg to Flander's Field where the poppies still grow, we 
have passed the torch from generation to generation.  From the poppy 
fields to the beaches of Normandy, to the hills of Korea, we again 
passed that torch.  And with that torch, with the best and fire and 
commitment to keep America strong, we are all truly the same.  From the 
hills of Korea to the jungles of Vietnam, to the desert of Saudi Arabia, 
our efforts are exactly the same.  This is the spirit of the warrior 
that we must have.
     This is the spirit of the warrior that I speak upon that needs to 
be passed on.  Fourteen years ago, I designed a  Vietnam veterans ring.  
This ring was to be worn by Vietnam veterans.  Today, I am proud to 
introduce the American veterans ring, veterans will want to be worn by 
all veterans.  I think you can tell how I feel about it.  I think are 
all the same.
     This ring is meant to unite us.  It is meant to be recognized on 
sight, not to carry around any kind of political opinions, controversial 
conversations or personal comparisons. It is simply a way to kindly say 
I know about war, I understand about war.  I care about you, my fellow 
veterans.
     Today the four veterans will receive the first rings from this war 
collection.  Unfortunately, our incoming National Commander is not 
available this morning and our prayers are with him.  I will read a 
little bit about James Nier.  He is from El Paso, Texas, was elected 
Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief of the Veterans of Foreign Wars at the 
96th National Convention in Phoenix, Arizona.
     He is the third Texan to be elected to the high office and his 
election placed him in position to become the next VFW Commander-in-
Chief.  He joined the VFW in 1981, and is a Life Member of Post 8919 in 
El Paso, Texas.  He is a Life Member of the Disabled American Veterans 
and Military Order of the Cootie, and belongs to the American Legion.
     He serves on four Veterans Advisory Boards and a  Veteran of the 
Year in 1987-'88 by the United American Veterans Organization of El 
Paso.  Again, he is unable to accept and our prayers and best wishes are 
with him.
     World War II, for those of you who don't know, I have a booth this 
week in the Exhibitor's Hall.  Many, many people came by and looked at 
the World War II veterans ring.  It is a replica of the ruptured duck.  
It is a beautiful ring.  I am not here to talk about the ring, I am here 
to talk about the  World War II people that came by and looked at it.  
They believe as we believe it is time to unite.  They believe as we 
believe it is time to take down any fences and become one.  
     In receiving the ring, please come forward James Kimery, Past 
Commander-in-Chief, 1990-'91.  James was elected Commander-in-Chief of 
the Veterans of Foreign Wars during the 91st National Convention in 
Baltimore, Maryland, in 1990.
     He joined the organization in 1952 while on active duty with the 
Air Force.  After two years as Department Chair,  he was elected 
Department Commander in 1970.  In 1986 and `87, he served as National 
Inspector General and was a member of the National Council of 
Administration.
     He also held several Western Conference positions and National 
appointments.  He resides in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and is a member of 
Post 9354, Albuquerque, New Mexico.  Please welcome him.
     The next is the forgotten warrior, Korea.  I say that not tongue in 
cheek, because the Korean War has always been very special to me.  My 
sentiments are the same with the Korea and Persian Gulf, and World War 
II, the spirit of the warrior was life again and continued to grow.
     Receiving the first Korean ring is Jack Carney, Past Commander-in-
Chief of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States.  Jack was 
sworn in as Commander-in-Chief of the Veterans of Foreign Wars at the 
94th VFW National Convention in Dallas, Texas, on August 27, 1993.
     He was the first Floridian to hold the distinguished  VFW position.  
He joined the VFW in 1958.  He has served as VFW Post Commander and held 
every elected office on the District level.  He was All-American 
Department Commander in `69 and `70, and served as Assistant Adjutant 
Quartermaster for seven years, a Life Member of VFW Post 4645, Satellite 
Beach, Florida.
     He is a member of the Military Order of the Cootie, the American 
Legion and the Elk's Lodge in Melbourne.  He is a native of West 
Virginia and he has five children and eight grandchildren.  He receives 
the first Korean ring.
     Desert Storm, Persian Gulf.  This was a war that was fought very 
differently, but a war that was still fought with courage, bravery, 
commitment and love of country.  We, too, embrace all the veterans into 
the VFW, and our next Desert Storm veteran is blazing a path with her 
work.
     Robbie Fazen-Marchant, I am sure I butchered her name, is the 
recipient of this award.  She was appointed Director of the VFW 
Foundation on January 1, 1996.  She served in the United States Army 
from June, `89, until September, `91.  During Operation Desert Storm, 
she served in the Signal Platoon 306 Military Intelligence, and among 
her military decorations she was awarded the Southwest Asia Medal, and 
she is currently a member of the Kansas Army National Guard.
     Marchant joined the VFW in 1991, VFW Post 846, Overland Park, 
Kansas.  She and her husband, Roger, live in Kansas City, Kansas, now.  
Please welcome Robbie.
     For those of you who choose to wear a ring from this  collection, I 
want you to wear it with American pride, integrity and honor.  I want 
you to wear it for all fallen veterans, for every comrade you have 
sought beside you.  Let it be your torch.  Let it be for the courage and 
mark of the spirited warrior.
     In closing, I want to tell you I would not trade my experiences in 
Vietnam for the world, not the good ones nor the bad ones, because it 
was an honor to fight for America and what she stands for, and it also 
put me in a very, very special class of true Americans, the Veterans of 
Foreign Wars.  Thank you very much.

     PRESENTATION OF JAMES C. GATES DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The James C. Gates Distinguished Service 
Award is presented annually to an individual or organization that has 
made extraordinary contributions in advancing veteran employment 
opportunities. This year we are honored to present this prestigious 
award to Richard R. Gray.
     Rick, as friends call him, served in the U.S. Army for over 23 
years, retiring with the rank of Sergeant Major.  Since his retirement 
four and one-half years ago, he has been a Veterans Outreach Program 
Specialist at the White River Junction Office of the Vermont Department 
of Employment and Training.
     For Rick, a Vietnam veteran, work is more than just a job; helping 
veterans is his way of life.  He created a support group for veterans 
searching for employment - ``Vet Net.''  It's a program in which 
veterans meet once a week to share employment information with each 
other and listen to guests speak on employment and benefit issues.
     Rick has appeared on many local radio stations as well as WCAX-TV 
promoting veterans' programs and employment. He has been instrumental in 
writing a new agreement between the  VA, Vocational Rehabilitation and 
the State Department of Employment and Training.
     When the office gets a new job listing, Rick works to ensure that 
veterans get priority.  He searches throughout the state and county to 
find a veteran a job.  Since July of 1995, Rick has personally placed 
over a hundred veterans in jobs. One of the most productive Disabled 
Veterans Outreach Program specialists in the State of Vermont and this 
nation, Rick's innovation, motivation and dedication have changed the 
way the White River Junction Office serves the employment and training 
needs of its local veterans.
     Rick also serves as the Department of Vermont's Employment Officer.
     Please join me in recognizing our 1996 James C. Gates Distinguished 
Service Award recipient, Richard R. Gray.
     ``Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, James C. Gates 
Distinguished Service Award presented to Richard R. Gray, Disabled 
Veterans Outreach Program Specialist, Vermont Department of Employment & 
Training, White River Junction,  Vermont.
     ``In recognition of extraordinary achievement and exceptional 
leadership in advancing employment opportunities for our nation's 
veterans and distinguished service in promoting the goals and objectives 
of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States.
     ``In Witness Whereof, we have hereunto set our hand and the 
official seal of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, this 
22nd day of August, 1996.''  It has been signed by Paul A. Spera, 
Commander-in-Chief, and Larry W. Rivers, Adjutant General.  
Congratulations, Rick.
     Along with this there is an honorarium of $1,000.

                      RESPONSE - MR. RICHARD GRAY

     MR. GRAY:  I am honored to be here.  I would like to thank 
Commander-in-Chief Paul and other National members and, of course, the 
Vermont delegation.  Commander Max is there somewhere.  I am really 
proud to be representing Vermont even though I am a flat-lander from 
Massachusetts.
     I take my job seriously and I just want to cover a couple of points 
that you also had in your catalogue there. That is reference to some of 
the training programs and things I see that are appearing out in the 
field.
     Just recently at the VA White River Junction, they have eliminated 
the home care services there.  They gave them 30 days to find a place to 
live, so things at the VA are diminishing, they are regrouping.  There 
are a number of federal employees that will be losing their jobs.
     You had some of the training programs that have been successful and 
not being eliminated.  And other training for veterans and non-veterans, 
the money is being depleted rapidly. We don't have our budget.  It is 
decreasing.  That is in your booklet.
     You also mentioned the NVTI training in Denver.  I have had the 
opportunity to go out there on six different occasions to get updated on 
veterans' benefits, vocational counseling and all the other programs 
that are designed for those out in the field to provide better services 
to veterans when they come in.
     Of course, their funding is about every other month up and down the 
roller coaster at this point in time.  So these things, while out in the 
field, you look up your veterans' representative in your employment 
office and make sure they are working for you.
     Also I want to identify that just recently in the Stars and 
Stripes, two weeks ago, one state decided not to have it in their state. 
They are downsizing up in the New England area.  I am concerned about 
that, not because of my job but because of the services provided by 
these ladies and gentlemen out there.
     Another issue that I have been working on specifically up in our 
area, as mentioned, the area is the homeless issue with veterans and 
that meets with continued progress, and we are working on it in our 
specific area.  Geographically, everyone has a different type program in 
regards to this.
     I feel strongly we do have a homeless problem in the  Vermont and 
New England area that we need to work on.  I thank you for the 
distinguished honor, the James C. Gates Distinguished Service Award.  I 
thank you very much, Commander-in-Chief.

          PRESENTATION OF EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR AWARD/LARGE
                   TO DynCORP, FORT HOOD, TEXAS

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  This year we are deeply  honored to 
recognize DynCorp of Fort Hood, Texas, as the Large Employer of the 
Year.
     On June 2, 1995, DynCorp, a firm which has provided aircraft 
services to U.S. armed forces since 1950, was awarded a four-year $82 
million contract to provide aircraft maintenance, logistics, and 
modification services to the U.S. Army. 
     Pressed for time since operations were set to commence on July 1, 
1995, DynCorp used the Texas Employment Commission as a recruitment 
site.  An employer response team was formed to quickly find a pool of 
qualified applicants.  The success of the TEC team was evident when full 
operations began as scheduled on July 1, 1995.
     To date, DynCorp has hired 565 people, 464 or 85.7 percent of whom 
are veterans, 48 of whom are disabled.  The cooperation between DynCorp 
and the TEC veterans staff serves as a fine example of the utility of 
and need for veteran employment representatives in this country.
     DynCorp is to be commended for its progressive policy of hiring 
veterans.  The company justly merits honor and recognition by the 
Veterans of Foreign Wars.  Here with us to receive this award is Mr. 
Harry Frazier, Program Manager.
     ``Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States National Large 
Employer of the Year Award presented to DynCorp, Fort Hood, Texas.
     ``In recognition and grateful appreciation for meritorious service 
in effecting a very comprehensive policy toward the recruitment, 
employment and promotion of veterans.
     ``In Witness Whereof, we have hereunto set our hands and the 
official seal of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, this 
22nd day of August, 1996.''  This has been signed by Paul Spera, 
Commander-in-Chief, and Larry W. Rivers, Adjutant General.

                     RESPONSE - MR. HARRY FRAZIER

     MR. FRAZIER:  Commander-in-Chief Spera, Delegates and Distinguished 
Guests:
     It is indeed an honor to be here today to accept this award on 
behalf of the employees, the majority of which are veterans at DynCorp 
at Fort Hood.  Thirteen months ago, we were awarded this contract.  It 
was very important to us to determine who were the best people to 
maintain the United States helicopters to do their logistical chores.
     The answer was obvious that it was veterans.  They were the ones 
that were trained and the ones we wanted on our force to go out and do 
this.  They have done a tremendous job.  I will tell you that we employ 
376 and are growing.  We will maintain that 87 to 90 percent veterans 
employees.
     I would like to tell you without the assistance of Mr. Mike Owen of 
TEC, and Mr. Jerry Fitzgerald, the Texas Work Force Commission, we could 
not have been successful in this. On behalf of all of the people at Fort 
Hood and DynCorp, and the Texas guys, it is a great honor.  Thank you 
very much.

               INTRODUCTION OF THE HONORABLE ROSS PEROT

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Please bear with us for a moment or two.  
We are getting ready to bring in a special guest.
     Sergeant-at-Arms, you will please escort our next guest, the Reform 
Party candidate for the office of President of the United States, Mr. H. 
Ross Perot.
     Ladies and gentlemen, I am pleased to introduce our next guest.  He 
has been an active veterans' advocate since his graduation from the 
United States Naval Academy in 1953.  His military service includes four 
years at sea aboard a destroyer and later an aircraft carrier in the 
1950's.
      Following his discharge in 1957, he went to work for IBM as a 
salesman.  In 1962, borrowing $1,000 from his wife, Margo, he started a 
data processing company called Electronic Data Systems.  Two decades 
later, he sold his company to General Motors for $2.5 billion and became 
GM's largest individual stockholder and a member of the Board of 
Directors.
     His fight on behalf of the POW during the Vietnam War resulted in 
his receiving the highest award given by the Department of Defense to a 
civilian, the medal for Distinguished Public Service.  His successful 
efforts to free two ED's employees, who became hostage of the Iran 
government in 1979, resulted in the best novel, ``Wings of Eagles.''  
That novel later became a TV mini series.
     A lifelong Texan, he has answered his state's call to provide his 
expertise in the field of public education and the prevention of illegal 
drug activity in the Lone Star State.  Among his many accomplishments 
and awards, he takes special pride in receiving the VFW 1981 Dwight D. 
Eisenhower Award for his support of our armed forces.
     In the 1992 presidential race, he was the Reform Party's candidate 
for that high office.  He comes to us again this year as that party's 
candidate for President of the United States.
     Please welcome a true patriot and a friend of veterans and the VFW, 
H. Ross Perot.

                ADDRESS - THE HONORABLE H. ROSS PEROT

     MR. ROSS PEROT:  Thank you very much.  It is a privilege to be with 
you today.  As I stand before this group, I think of the Colorado Rugged 
Rangers and a handful of people who stormed the beach to get away from 
the British Fire Department at the top of the cliff where tremendous 
amounts of artillery and fire pouring down on these people, they climbed 
the ladders, they took out the artillery, they sent up the flare and 
Normandy invasion began.
     So that proves the story that a handful of ordinary Americans are 
capable of extraordinary achievements one more time.  Is that true?  A 
little over a year ago, a handful of American people, because only 19 
percent of the people trust our government, decided to create a new 
party.
     They said it couldn't be done.  It takes two years in California 
alone to create a new party.  Ordinary people did it in 18 days.  Sixty-
two percent of Americans want a new party, and I am pleased to announce 
to you that, by golly, they did it and they built it.  It belongs to 
them and it is not a penny of special interest money in it.
     We never forget how lucky we are to live in this great country.  It 
is the greatest country in the history of man.  I don't have to tell 
this group that I am speaking to a nationwide audience that freedom is 
our most precious possession, that freedom is fragile, and after a 
hundred years we take it for granted.
     We must never, ever take it for granted.  You have fought, you bled 
and your friends died for freedom.  We must treat it as a very special, 
precious commodity.  Each time we break the law, we give up part of our 
freedom.  History teaches you solutions to local problems and the state 
problems, and the local problems if nothing else works, pass a federal 
law.
     We have got enough upside down now.  Every little  problem that 
comes up, we are going to fix that for you.  Most of these problems you 
and I have to fix for ourselves in a free society.  Right?  You know 
that and I know that.  Let's face it.  We can't become discouraged and 
cynical.
     You didn't in World War II.  I am sure all of you fought in those 
big tough battles in World War II, Korea, and I understand people from 
World War I are here.  God bless you. That is wonderful.  You understand 
that there are bad days and those bad days when you saw a lot of your 
friends lost.
     You never gave up and we must never give up because we own this 
country.  The people in Washington are our servants.  They work for us, 
believe it or not.  You pay their salaries.  Stay focused on that.  You 
have the final decision of what happens, not the money of the special 
interests.
     All the special interest money in the world is not worth a plug 
nickel.  Unfortunately, it does cause problems and I hope we will stop 
that and we will try.  Our country has severe financial problems.  We 
have got to deal with them now.  If we don't we are going to have a 
financial meltdown.
     In this audience there are a lot of people who grew up and lived in 
the Depression.  You don't want that to happen again.  You certainly 
don't want it to happen again because in the Depression our government 
was in strong financial condition and was a positive force in getting us 
through.
     This time around it will be a major liability.  We  can't let that 
happen to our children and grandchildren.  I know you know, and I know 
myself, if necessary, we would all move out and live under a bridge for 
those children and grandchildren, because we are devoted to them.
     The facts are we have spent their money, and I make that point now.  
We are the world's super power.  You have to be an economic super power 
to be a super power.  If you question that, look at Russia.
     One more point.  You have to be a manufacturing super power to be a 
super power.  You won World War II, because no matter how many planes 
were shot down, how many tanks were destroyed, no matter how much was 
wiped out, we could at least supply them.  All the guts and 
determination of the world without weapons won't win.
     You had that, but you also had the weapons.  In 1960, we ran this 
great country for $100 million a year.  That was not half of the 
interest on the debt now of $1.5 billion, and we have $5 trillion in 
debt.  That is so big nobody can relate to it.
     I will tell you this is more debt than we have money in print.  I 
think that is too much debt for even Forest Gump. They tell us things 
are getting better.  Look at their numbers in the forecast.  All those 
money was accumulated in the last 15 years.
     That gave a lot of history from 1993.  Well, maybe that will fix 
it.  Here is the President's Office of Management and Budget Report one 
year after the big tax increase, forecasting that in the year 2020, the 
debt will be increasing at the rate of $1.4 trillion a year.
     In the year 2030, it will be going up to $4.1 trillion every year.  
The debt is $5 trillion and will be increasing four-fifths of that by 
the year 2030 according to the President's office.  If I have not gotten 
your attention so far, go to Page 25 of the President's budget in 1995 
and read that. 
     He predicted that the next generation to be born, a little baby 
born tonight, will pay 82 percent tax rate.  Isn't that the end of 
America's dream?  These are the government's numbers.  I have to keep 
saying that, otherwise, you think I am talking to Khomeini.
     These are the government's numbers.  These numbers are now 84 
percent, and since the American people took it out of the budget.  Every 
brethren has got to read this now.  The procurement handbook regarding 
military equipment from foreign supplies and in plain Texas talk, ``You 
ain't going to believe this one.''  Here it is.
     ``Foreign dependence on equipment does not mean foreign capability.  
Foreign sources cannot be automatically excluded on the basis to protect 
classified or unique technology from others.  Just because a foreign 
firm has control of the technology does not make us vulnerable.
     ``Shear physical distance from the United States is not by itself a 
risk which merits for some course excluded.'' Does that policy make any 
sense to you at all?  Did either of the other two candidates even bring 
that little skunk up and hold it by the tail?
     No, they are in the process of putting it through.  You know who 
coined the words ``Tell the people what they want to hear''?  Lyndon 
did.  We have patented that term in the good old USA.  Speaking of that, 
we are now in the process of wiping out our patent system so all these 
other countries around the world that now 40 to 50 people, because of 
one worker in the United States, can have access to our patents and not 
pay the royalties.  That doesn't make any sense, either.
     We must be a manufacturing super power to defend this  country.  
Please keep that in mind.  We have two deficits.  We have talked about 
the deficit budget, and the other is a trade deficit.  Most people don't 
understand it.  Keep in mind the trade surplus is good.
     Oh, boy, that is good.  That trade deficit is bad. That means our 
money is going out of the USA, going into the bank overseas.  Keep in 
mind they take that money and they buy U.S. bonds, and you and I pay 
interest to those countries overseas.
     If they ever lose confidence in those U.S. bonds and start to dump 
them, we are going to have the mother of all meltdown and we cannot let 
that happen.  If you have got a friend drinking too much, and say, ``I 
know my liver will go some day but I am not going to worry about it 
now,'' if you are a real friend, you will stick a cork in the bottle and 
get that guy to quit, right?
     That is what we have got to do right here.  In 1960, 90 percent of 
the goods we bought in the USA, were made here.  Today it is around 50 
percent.  Over two million manufacturing jobs have gone to Asia alone, 
and half a million jobs have gone to Mexico.
     Who is winning, who is losing?  Our trade deficit for this year is 
$174 billion.  Our cumulative trade deficit is over a trillion dollars.  
This is the largest of any nation in the history of man.  The Japanese 
deficit, our deficit with Japan, is $59.3 billion.  Our deficit with 
China is $38 billion this year and will be $50 billion next year.
     To show how stupid our trade deals are, we are the only 
industrialized country in the nation that has a trade deficit with 
China.  Did anybody bring that up when they were talking to you?  
Absolutely not, because they are bought and paid for by these companies 
that want to take the jobs out of the USA and take it over to child 
labor in Taiwan, and make the tennis shoes for $5, pay $20 to ship them 
and assemble them, and sell them to our kids for $150, and they will 
kill one another on the street to get them.
     Is that what you want?  I don't think so.  Now, I am a little 
embarrassed about that one.  It was the jobs in the USA and it makes you 
all rich and the trade deficit is so far $53 billion and going south.
     Now, how are they managing their money?  Social Security, Medicare 
and Medicaid, the annual forecast is that it will be $3.9 billion in the 
year 2023.  That is more than twice what we spent to run the whole 
country today.  They have created things that won't work.  They won't 
talk to you about them and they will tell you what they want you to 
hear.
     I am going to cut the insurance.  God bless them.  Right?  That is 
what, about 50 bucks a year to you?  That doesn't stack up against $3.9 
trillion.  Okay.  We don't buy that.  Folks, have you ever gotten any 
free candy in your life? I don't think so.  You are not getting any now.
     Medicaid when created, the coverage was $1 billion in the year 
1990, and it costs you $41 billion today.  He couldn't manage that.  
Medicare was created in the mid-'60s and was forecasted to cost no more 
than $9 billion in the year 1990. It costs $98 billion.
     Social Security is forecast to have a $5.5 trillion deficit in the 
year 2050?  This is the government's numbers.  In the year 2060, Social 
Security tax rate for employees are forecasted to be 40 percent of the 
employee's paycheck.  You  can't keep this going.  You have got to 
change it.
     You will absolutely protect the people who are retired, but if you 
let it continue like this you are just creating a problem.  If I don't 
make any other point here to this audience, let me make this point 
clear.  Did they talk about the Social Security Trust Fund?  There is 
not a Social Security Trust Fund.  The money has been loaned.
     You say that is all right, we have a note, full faith and credit 
with the USA.  But the government doesn't have any money until you give 
it to them, right?  You have got to pay all that back so that people can 
get their Social Security check and have to pay interest.
     By the way, you will have to pay interest on the interest because 
they are just letting that accumulate so the deficit looks lower in `96.  
Then they can say, ``God bless you, we are taking care of you.''  In a 
free society, you take care of yourself.  Right?
     Now, everywhere I go people say, ``Why won't Social Security work 
anymore, Ross?  It used to?''  In 1945, it had 40 people that worked, 
and I say what do you think it is?  They say, well, they put the money 
in every two weeks and the employer puts an equal amount in the Pension 
Fund and it is invested, and we get it when we retire.  Wrong.
     You are part right and part wrong.  You have put the money in and 
the boss puts the money in.  As soon as that money hits Washington, 
faster than Dominoe's Pizza it goes out the door to people who are 
retired.  My faith in people in the United States is a ``Road'' Scholar, 
r-o-a-d, Scholar, one who is street smart and with common sense.
     People come up to me at Wal-Mart and say, ``Okay. Ross, it didn't work.''  In 1945, we had 40 people at work for every person who died.  
It worked in 1950, we expanded benefits and we only had 16 people that 
worked for every person retired and we raised the rates and it still 
worked.
     Today we have three people that work for every person retired, and 
it is squeaking like an old car.  In the year 2020, we will only have 
two people that work for every person that is retired.  We have got to 
start now protecting the retirees, transition it to a true Pension Fund, 
and then put that problem behind us.
     This is like arterial bleeding, the longer you wait, the less 
likely you are to save the patient.  All they are going to do is to lean 
forward with tears in their eyes in 1996 and say, ``I am going to take 
your money and I am going to protect Social Security as we know it.''  
Well, anybody that will buy that, I will sell you a Brooklyn Bridge over 
the phone this afternoon.  Okay?  Fine.
     The number one vote industry in the United States, I want to 
announce to you is good news, great news on industry, the bad news is 
the U.S. government.  As business people, you are saying what is the 
product?  They don't have one.  Where does it get its money?  From you.
     Well, does it make a profit?  No, it is losing money. This is not 
exactly the kind of program a company would need  You have $5 trillion 
in debt.  We spend $1.5 trillion a year. We all live in a mansion on the 
hill.  We should have Utopia and a yacht in Palm Beach and a Rolls Royce 
in the garage.
     Our only problem should be too much debt, right?  Personally, if 
you spend that much money, you would have it all.  You would have all 
the toys and just too much debt.  Here is what happens.  The standard of 
living dropped four out of five Americans, 20 percent dropped in wages 
since 1973.
     Both parents have to work now to maintain a middle class living.  A 
two-paycheck family has barely the same paycheck as 25 years ago for 
one.  For all you business people who don't understand, assets minus 
liabilities equal net worth. That is from Page 18 of the President's 
1997 budget.
     Our assets were $2.5 trillion and our liabilities, $5.296 trillion.  
We have a negative net worth of $2.98 trillion, and we are leaving all 
of the bad stuff out of our budget.  If you keep books in the way the 
government does, they would put you in jail literally.
     The liabilities are not even mentioned and that is $17 trillion.  I 
covered all this and the New York Times wrote a story about Perot forgot 
the fact they don't count things like the Grand Canyon.  I said that 
would be a poor place to farm if you bought it.  Look at it.
     Now, if the people don't have any money, they can't pay or go look 
at it.  Right?  Recreation, we are talking about work.  We tried big 
companies and it didn't work.  Your federal pensions are not funded.  
Your veterans' pensions are not funded.
     Month to month the money comes in from the taxpayers and the money 
goes out to you.  That is not a way to run a railroad, that is not a way 
to organize a group in silent prayer.  That is sure not a way to put 
together a two-car funeral, and it is no way to run the pension fund.
     Do you recall there is no pension fund?  You keep hoping and 
praying tonight that money coming in keeps coming in.  Right?  We have 
got to change that and re-engineer it. Why all these programs?  The 
programs they design never work. They have a dream, a detailed dream.
     I had a dream like an artist on a scrap of paper.   Attach them to 
massive legislation.  They don't ever design to detail, they don't ever 
prior test any of these programs.  They don't optimize them.  They don't 
deposit them and they don't find out how to make it work in a cost-
effective way.
     They put in a dream funding it with taxpayers' money, and every 
time they foul up they increase taxes.  We have to go in and re-engineer 
these programs, like it or not, and the sooner we start, the sooner we 
finish.
     If you had a good friend that you had rushed to the emergency room 
after a terrible accident who was bleeding arterially, with broken 
fingers and blood out of his nose, if all the doctors worked on the 
broken fingers and nose, you would wonder about their priorities.  
Right?
     That is what you hear right now, the little things.  I am talking 
about the things that makes the nation's heartbeat right here. We have 
got to start talking about these programs. Right?  Now, they don't like 
you to. Parties won't face these problems. Neither of the two parties 
takes responsibility.  Each blames the other.
     My position is they were both there when it happened. Nobody else 
was there. Somebody has to take the  responsibility. Now, they are going 
to present you with fascinating, exciting plans to some of these 
problems, and they are going to present you, both parties, with the 
mother of all tax cuts to fix it.
     Let me give you an analogy.  You come and say, ``Ross, I am 
hopelessly in debt and I can't pay my bills.  You are a businessman. 
Could you give me some advice?''  I would say, ``Sure, I will give you 
some great advice.''  They say, ``What is that?''  I say, ``Get your 
boss to cut your salary.''
     ``Ross, I can't pay my bills now.'' I said, ``Let's change the 
subject.''  Right?  That is what they are telling you right now and ask 
yourselves are they giving you hard facts or are they spending their 
time promising you free candy?
     It has been my privilege to work closely with veterans all my adult 
life.  Many of those things have been covered here today.  All I can say 
is that as far as I am concerned, you represent the best of America.  
You are our heroes. Any time I am called on, I respond. I don't do it 
for credit or recognition.  I do it because deep down in here I 
appreciate what you have done.
     The interesting thing is that we had a very important General from 
the Pentagon that said if you can't figure out the solution to the 
problem, call Ross. Believe me, I have had some interesting calls in my 
life.  Number one, General Motors needed to send a half billion dollars 
in an hour to the Embassy, and they couldn't figure out how the U.S. 
government could do it.
     I sat there and scratched my head and called back to the vice-
president of the bank, and she laughed at me and said, ``Both of you 
have forgotten the time zones. The bank is open.'' She got it there in 
30 minutes. Would you like a little less talk and a lot more action in 
the future? That is what we need.
     When we had two people taken hostage in Iran, the government 
couldn't get them out. They had not done anything wrong. It was our 
obligation to get them out.  Guess who did it?  The Vietnam veterans.  
Guess who built my company?  The Vietnam veterans.
     So for the first time in my life I had to ask people to risk their 
lives.  These people have been in combat. A lot have been hit.  They 
knew what it was all about.  I thought maybe one out of five would 
volunteer. One hundred percent of them volunteered to go. They were led.
     You know they executed mission impossible and they got the people 
out here that you don't know.  The Marine Sergeant was shot during the 
revolution just as we got to Turkey.  Our team was exhausted as you 
would expect, but their old mind set is if that man is going to die, we 
will go back in and get him.
     We had a dream and simply was leading and we would go back and fly 
in.  We flew the abandoned air fields.  We had light on that and had a 
Sergeant in place and had came under radar.  That was not critical.  I 
think that tells you the spirit of those Vietnam veterans.  You don't 
leave the wounded on the battlefield.
     That is what I have learned, first, you commit the nation before 
you put your troops in combat, and then you commit the troops.  You 
always thank and honor the troops when they come home.  We didn't do 
that in Vietnam.  We did it after Desert Storm.
     I have a short interesting story.  When they had a state parade in 
Dallas, a few days before the parade, they had forgot to raise the money 
for the parade, and they asked me if I would do it.  I did it and I 
called the Vietnam organization in Dallas and I said you should be 
there.
     They said no.  I looked them in the eye and I said, ``I have not 
asked you for anything.  Do it for me.''  I won't repeat what they said, 
but they did.  Desert Storm came to town and I told them I had invited 
the Vietnam.  They said, ``They have fought a long dirty war.  Put them 
in front of us.''  How is that for a good spirit?
     Then the Generals and the Admirals came to town.  I told them about 
the parade schedule and they would be up front.  They said, ``No, Ross, 
put us behind the Vietnam veterans and in front of the Desert Storm 
veterans.  We fought with both of them.''
     I couldn't control the crowd's reaction to the  Vietnam veterans.  
When they turned on Main Street, it was like the Super Bowl parade that 
I have seen in Dallas on several occasions.  The crowd went wild over 
these middle-aged men, not in uniforms, some of them in fatigues, most 
just in civilian clothes.  These are tough guys. 
     They were crying openly, and at the end of the parade we had a 
barbecue, and again and again they came up to me and said, ``Ross, this 
is the best day I have had since I came home.''  It is time to say thank 
you to the people in combat, honor the people who have been in combat 
because they have risked their lives for you.
     You don't leave the wounded behind, you don't leave prisoners of 
war behind.  They should receive the finest medical care.  I have spent 
a good part of my time on that one right there.  The families should be 
supportive.  Throughout my life, I have been able to produce results.  I 
have taken action.  I want to solve the problems that face this country.
     That is the only reason I am running.  I want a better country for 
our children.  So the record is clear of my commitment to this country 
and those who served in the armed forces, it is a critical time in the 
country's history, I have never asked the veterans for anything, but I 
want a promise from all 27 million of you today, I want a promise that 
you will study issues, you will get the facts, you will vote in November 
and not be manipulated by the propaganda that will be dumped on you day 
by day during this campaign, just like Tokyo Rose dumped it on you in 
World War II.
     You ignored it and won the war.  Ignore it and vote for people that 
you believe will do the job.  I don't ask you to vote for any specific 
candidate.  That would be improper.  I ask you to get the facts and vote 
your conscience.  Twenty-seven million veterans is more than enough of a 
swing vote to determine who will be the President of the United States 
and who gets elected in every House and Senate race.
     Why don't you get organized and just go do it.  Let's pass on a 
country to our grandchildren and leave them with a legacy that our 
parents and grandparents left us.  Let's make the 21st century the 
greatest in our country's history.
     I close with Bill Simons, his first race.  World War II, small team 
wanted to show up in a submarine raft.  Take that radio station on top 
of the mountain.  They lived in the jungles for six weeks and ate what 
they could find.  They had a lot of bananas.  He never ate another one 
after that.
     He got in a mission and there were 16 people at the top.  It was a 
cliff behind the radio station and there was a sloping mountain going up 
to it.  Everybody came up the slope. He realized there was only one man 
on duty at a time.  After six weeks of observing, he left his men 
behind.
     This is leadership.  He left his weapon behind.  He carried a knife 
in the center of his back and climbed the cliff because nobody had been 
down the cliff.  He caught the man on the guard by surprise.  He killed 
him with his knife.  He took  the weapon, went into the barracks and 
shot 15 people in their sleep.
     You don't wake up your enemy in the middle of the war.  You know 
that, I know that.  Then he blew up the radio station and walked down 
and placed himself in the rubber raft and went back to the submarine.  
That is a classic case of Churchill's words action this day, that is 
what we need, that is what made this country great.  That is what you 
have done all your life.
     Let's strap it on one more time.  You guys get organized and decide 
who is going to lead this country in the 21st century.  I know you will 
make the right decision.  Thank you.

          PRESENTATION OF SMALL EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR AWARD

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  This year we are honored to present the 
prestigious VFW National Small Employer of the  Year Award to Anamet 
Electrical, Inc., a company whose policies and achievements in hiring, 
promoting and training of veterans are noteworthy.
     Anamet Electrical, Inc., is located in Mattoon, Illinois, and is a 
subsidiary of Anamet, Inc., of Waterbury, Connecticut.  The company has 
been in business since 1952 and since its inception has traditionally 
maintained a strong veterans' presence in the make-up of its personnel.
     Veterans' preference is applied for purposes of recruitment, 
placement and promotion by Anamet Electrical, Inc. Anamet is a company 
of 102 employees, 49 of whom are veterans. In 1995, Anamet hired 22 
people, including 11 veterans. Seventy-three percent of the veterans 
hired by Anamet in 1995 remain with the company today, a retention rate 
which far exceeds the national average.
     It should be noted that Anamet Electrical, Inc., turned to the 
local office of the Illinois Department of Employment Security to fill 
its employment needs.  This office is typical of the hundreds of 
employment service offices throughout the country which thousands of 
veterans use to find gainful and meaningful employment.
     As well as supporting veterans, Anamet is a strong supporter of the 
National Guard and the Reserves.  While it has no legal obligation to do 
so, Anamet pays the difference between an employee's average earnings 
and the pay he or she receives while on annual training.  Such a 
generous practice is to be commended.
     Here to accept the award for Anamet Electrical, Inc., is Tom Stitt, 
Manager of Human Resources.
     ``Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States National Small 
Employer of the Year Award presented to Anamet Electrical, Inc., 
Mattoon, Illinois.
     ``In recognition and grateful appreciation for meritorious service 
in effecting a very comprehensive policy toward the recruitment, 
employment and promotion of veterans.
     ``In Witness Whereof, we have hereunto set our hands and the 
official seal of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, this 
22nd day of August, 1996.''  This has been signed by Paul A. Spera, 
Commander-in-Chief, and Larry W. Rivers, Adjutant General.  
Congratulations and thank you very much.

                     RESPONSE - MR. TOM STITT

     MR. TOM STITT:  Thank you very much, Commander-in-Chief Spera.  My 
wife, Helen, and I are very happy to be here today to accept this award 
on behalf of Anamet Electrical in Mattoon for all the employees in 
Mattoon.  I would like to also at this time extend our thanks to Sid 
Daniels, Director of the National Veterans Employment, Don Porter, State 
of Illinois Employment Officer, and the Vietnam Job Service Rep for the 
State of Illinois in Wilmington, Illinois.  Also Jeff Elson and Dave 
Kimmy, Veterans Employment Officers for the Illinois Job Service in 
Mattoon, Illinois.
     All of these folks were instrumental in helping us achieve this 
great honor from the VFW today.  I have been an employee of this company 
for almost 40 years.  I have been instrumental in the hiring practices 
and I have felt very strongly as a veteran myself that veterans make the 
best employees.
     I have 40 years of experience to prove that.  The employees at 
Anamet have proven that.  We will continue this practice throughout my 
career.  I am sure that the person that takes my place will carry on as 
we have carried on in the past. I am also happy to indicate that the 
monetary award we are receiving today will be turned over to Commander 
Don Hartenberger, Department Commander of Illinois, for them to use as 
they see fit
     To the Illinois delegation, I apologize for not meeting up with you 
folks last night, but we just weren't able to do so.  If Don 
Hartenberger is here, thank you, Don.  Thank you all.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  I have just presented the gentleman with 
a $1,000 honorarium that goes with the award. He has indicated that will 
go back to the VFW Post in Mattoon.

                     PRESENTATION OF LOCAL OFFICE
               OF THE PUBLIC EMPLOYMENT SERVICE AWARD

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  We are honored to recognize the Killeen 
Local Office of the Texas Employment Commission for our National Local 
Office of the Public Employment Service Award.  
     The Killeen Local Office has excelled in providing services to 
employers and veterans alike.  In support of veterans their commitment 
to service is a total effort.  They promote veterans services at every 
opportunity
     During 1995, the Killeen Local Office provided job placement, 
counseling and other services to over 9,000 veterans.  In an area where 
unemployment hovers at nine percent, 55 percent of the veterans received 
at least one referral to a job, 21 percent were directly placed, and 16 
percent were provided substantial services that led to employment.
     In working with this pool of veterans, the staff did not limit its 
search to just the local community but pointed veterans to jobs all over 
the state and across the nation.  Of special note is the Killeen local 
office's participation in the Department of Labor's Transition 
Assistance Program for separating veterans.
     The staff of the Killeen local office gave 63 classes to 2,324 
separating soldiers at Ft. Hood.  The staff also provided frequent 
briefings regarding employment to Ft. Hood soldiers and was also 
involved in the Army career and alumni program.
     These accomplishments clearly identify the Killeen local office as 
one that has excelled in service to veterans and one that justly merits 
recognition by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States.
     Here to accept the award is Mike Olen, lead Local Veterans 
Employment Representative.
     ``Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States National Employment 
Service Office Award presented to Killeen Local Office Texas Employment 
Commission, Killeen, Texas.
     ``In recognition and appreciation for meritorious, professional 
employment service rendered to veterans.
     ``In Witness Whereof, we have hereunto set our hands and the 
official seal of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, this 
22nd day of August, 1996.''  This has been signed by Paul A. Spera, 
Commander-in-Chief, and Larry W. Rivers, Adjutant General.

                       RESPONSE - MR. MIKE OLEN

     MR. MIKE OLEN:  Thank you, Comrade Commander-in-Chief Spera.  
Members of the VFW and the Texas delegation, I would like to start off 
by saying you all know how to have hospitality.  That was fun last night 
and I enjoyed it.  It is a privilege and honor to accept this award on 
behalf of the Killeen Local Office of the Texas Work Force Commission.
     We have changed our name.  Just like the VFW, Killeen has been 
strong in providing quality service to veterans and has demonstrated 
that by leading Texas in placing veterans in jobs for each of the past 
five years.  Employment and service is important to veterans.
     At the local, state and national level, we must all be assured of 
priority of service to veterans.  That is not just as a part of the 
social plan or project, but as a concrete recognition.  It is an 
obligation by a nation to those that have served.  It is needed, it is 
right and it must continue. The question is if it continues, it is up to 
you.  Again, I would like to thank the VFW and its members for this 
award.
     In closing, I would like to mention the honorarium accompanying 
this award has been designated for the Killeen Area Home and Hope 
Shelter so that the VFW spirit of caring and serving veterans continues 
within the community and follows a theme ``We'd do anything for this 
country.''

PRESENTATION OF DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD, GOLD MEDAL AND CITATION TO 
              PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF ALLEN F. KENT

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  His theme was ``First to Serve,'' and he 
exemplified what that meant in a very personal manner.  Allen F. 
``Gunner'' Kent led from a forward position. He was up on the front 
lines the entire year he served as our  VFW Commander-in-Chief.  He was 
visible and he was forceful.
     ``Gunner'' went to Vietnam to find out about our POW/MIA's and, by 
the way, since he speaks Vietnamese, he asked his own questions and he 
understood the answers.  He didn't have to rely on a translator.
     That same personal involvement marked everything he did in the 
1994-'95 year, a period marked by fierce battles on Capitol Hill over 
budget cuts and the impact they would have on veterans affairs.  Today 
veterans continue to enjoy many of the entitlements that might have been 
lost had ``Gunner'' not gone toe-to-toe with those who would forget the 
sacrifices of America's veterans.
      ``Gunner'' joined the VFW in 1968 after a 24-year career in the 
United States Marine Corps.  He came home with the bronze star with two 
Combat V's, a Vietnamese Campaign Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, 
Presidential Unit Citation, Marine Corps Unit Citation with two stars, 
Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Unit Commendation with two stars, among 
others.
     He moved quickly through elective and appointed positions in our 
organization.  Wherever he served, he served with distinction:  All-
American Post Commander, Captain of the All-State Team, and in 1988, 
All-American Commander, Department of Arizona.
     Recognition of his leadership abilities went beyond the ranks of 
the VFW.  In 1979, he was chosen Arizona's ``Young Vietnam Veteran of 
the Year.''
     We are indeed fortunate in having Allen F. ``Gunner'' Kent as our 
VFW Commander-in-Chief.  Under his leadership, the VFW carried on a 
proud tradition dating back to the founding of our country: ``First to 
Serve.''  And now a VFW member who has served us well and who continues 
to serve America's veterans from a position on the staff of the 
Secretary of Veterans Affairs, I am very pleased and very proud to 
present to you Allen F. ``Gunner'' Kent of the great State of Arizona.
     ``Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Distinguished 
Service Medal and this Citation awarded to Allen F. `Gunner' Kent, 
Commander-in-Chief, 1994-'95.
     ``In sincere appreciation and special recognition of his total 
dedication and commitment to the highest ideals of the Veterans of 
Foreign Wars of the United States and his continuing efforts in support 
of its programs and purposes. Through his exceptional leadership during 
the 1994-'95 administrative year, the Veterans of Foreign Wars 
demonstrated its readiness to be the `First to Serve' our nation and its 
veterans.
     ``In Witness Whereof, we have hereunto set our hands and the 
official seal of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, this 
22nd day of August, 1996.''  This has been signed by Paul A. Spera, 
Commander-in-Chief, and Larry W. Rivers, Adjutant General.
     As a personal note, Gunner, let me say that it was indeed an honor 
for me to be a part of that ``First to Serve'' team.

              RESPONSE - PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF KENT

     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF KENT:  Thank you very much, Commander-in-
Chief, National Officers and my Fellow Comrades. I would just like to 
thank you very much for this honor and especially thank the Department 
of Arizona and VFW Post 9972 for all its support.
     I would like to introduce my lovely wife, Becky, who stood with me 
through all the times when the shots were fired and some missed and most 
missed, though.  I would like everybody to just remember one thing, 
please.  It has been a great Convention.
     We have some good times and we have had some battles, and we have 
all discussed it and we have heard our opinions. Let's all remember one 
thing, when we leave here, we are members of the greatest veterans 
organization this world has ever seen.
     Our main job and our main purpose when we go back home is to make 
sure that the veterans of this country are taken care of and that this 
country remains a strong, strong national defense.  May God bless all of 
you and may God continue to bless the United States of America.  Thank 
you.
     (Whereupon, the assembly extended a prolonged standing ovation.)

         DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD, GOLD MEDAL AND CITATION
               TO PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF JAMES CURRIEO

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  James R. ``Bob'' Currieo joined the VFW 
in 1962.  Twenty years later, he was elected Commander-in-Chief of the 
VFW.  That says a lot about Bob Currieo and his exceptional leadership 
ability.  And what's even more amazing about that record of achievement 
is that for the first 11 years of that period he was still on active 
duty with the United States Army, a service he had joined in 1951.
     Bob is a Korean War veteran who served as a gunner in the 3rd AAA 
Battalion, the 3rd Infantry Division, through some of the heaviest 
fighting of that bitter war.
     Afterwards, he came home, went to college, joined the VFW, and was 
named one of Arizona's Outstanding Young Men in 1966 by the National 
Junior Chamber of Commerce.  He also served on the Arizona Governor's 
Veterans Advisory Council.
     As I have said, his career in the VFW was outstanding.  The same 
year that he retired from the Army was also the year he served as 
Commander, VFW Department of Arizona, and he made All-American that 
year.
     At a time when the veterans of Vietnam were trying to get adjusted 
to a post-Vietnam America, Bob led the way in fighting for Agent Orange 
compensation, a role that he has continued to fulfill as the Executive 
Director of the VFW Washington Office.  Today, thanks in large part to 
his efforts, compensation is being awarded for at least nine medical 
conditions related to Agent Orange exposure.
     Bob was appointed to the position of Executive Director of the VFW 
Washington Office in 1994 at our 95th National Convention.  Before that 
appointment, he had served as the Director of the VFW Political Action 
Committee.
     Now, please join with me in welcoming one of the truly great 
leaders of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Bob Currieo of the great 
Department of Arizona.
     ``The Veterans of Foreign Wars Gold Medal of Merit and this 
Citation awarded to James R. `Bob' Currieo.
     ``In special recognition of his exceptional service as an 
articulate spokesman and exceptional advocate for our nation's veterans 
and for the programs and purposes of the  Veterans of Foreign Wars 
during his more than 36 years of distinguished and effective leadership 
in every elective office of the organization culminating in his election 
to the highest office of the Veterans of Foreign Wars in 1982-'83 during 
which time he led the organization with the motto `Strength Through 
Service' as Commander-in-Chief, and in sincere appreciation for 
continuing to serve the organization with great dignity as the Director 
of the VFW Political Action Committee and most recently as the Assistant 
Adjutant General and Executive Director of the Veterans of Foreign Wars' 
Washington Office.
     ``In Witness Whereof, we have hereunto set our hands and the 
official seal of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, this 
22nd day of August, 1996.''  This has been signed by Paul A. Spera, 
Commander-in-Chief, and Larry W. Rivers, Adjutant General.  Bob, thank 
you for everything.

               RESPONSE - PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF CURRIEO

     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF CURRIEO:  I said I had a two-hour speech, 
but he said he was leaving anyhow.  I do want to thank you, Commander-
in-Chief, and the national leadership of this organization, and 
especially to you comrades because I consider this a high honor coming 
from you.
     In my capacity as Executive Director of the Washington Office, as 
well as Commander-in-Chief and PAC Director, and the other offices I 
have held on the national level, I was working for you.  You were not 
working for me.  This is the attitude that we must continue to keep in 
mind that we work for you.
     You are the rank and file members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.  
You are the VIPs of this organization, and we are here to serve you.  As 
we leave this Convention, Gunner said it all, and I join him in the same 
remarks, we have had some battles, and we will come back next year and 
probably have some more, but when we leave this Convention we must unite 
and unite behind the leadership of our organization and unite behind the 
principles of our organization, and we must move forward for the good of 
all veterans of these United States.
     Thank you, Paul.  Thank you, comrades.  God bless you and God bless 
America.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  I have to go do some business, and I 
will turn the microphone over to the Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief.
     (Whereupon, Junior Commander-in-Chief Moon assumed the Chair at 
this time.)

              OUTSTANDING VA HEALTH CARE PROVIDER AWARD

     JUNIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF MOON:  It is an honor for me to 
introduce Mr. Santo F. Trombetta, VFW Outstanding VA Health Care 
Provider of the Year Award.
     The National Hospital Committee of the Veterans of Foreign Wars has 
established an award recognizing an Outstanding VA Health Care Provider 
of the Year.  This year's recipient is Mr. Santo Trombetta, who is a 
recreation therapist at the Grand Junction VA Medical Center.
     An avid skier, Mr. Trombetta has worked diligently over the years 
to develop a skiing program for those who are wheelchair bound.  Through 
the eyes of his patients, he visualized a ski clinic, where physically-
challenged veterans could learn adaptive skiing techniques.  This vision 
came true in 1988 when the VA held the first winter sport clinic in 
Grand Junction, Colorado, and has continued this exceptional program 
each year.
     The clinic has grown from 88 veterans to over 300 disabled 
participants of which many are visually impaired. Even though many are 
at first apprehensive about their capabilities, a week at the clinic 
restores their faith in themselves and strengthens their abilities to 
face challenges in spite of their disabilities.
     These gutsy veterans have their own motto, which demonstrates their 
spirit and aggressiveness, ``If you haven't left blood on the mountain, 
you ain't been there.''
     It is with great pride that I present this year's Outstanding VA 
Health Care Provider of the Year Award to Mr. Sandy Trombetta from Grand 
Junction, Colorado.
     The citation reads in part, ``The Veterans of Foreign  Wars of the 
United States Outstanding VA Health Care Provider Award, 1995-1996, 
presented to Santo F. Trombetta in special recognition of your 
individual achievements in support of the programs and purposes of the 
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States as the Outstanding VA 
Health Care Provider of the Year.
     ``In Witness Whereof, we have hereunto set our hands and the 
official seal of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, this 
22nd day of August, 1996.''  It has been signed by Paul A. Spera,  
Commander-in-Chief, and Larry W. Rivers, Adjutant General.

                    RESPONSE - MR. SANTO TROMBETTA

     MR. TROMBETTA:  Commander-in-Chief, Delegates and Honored Guests, I 
would really like to thank you for this honor today.  Actually, you 
honor me for something I really consider a privilege, and that is to 
serve our nation's veterans.
     I would especially like to thank the members of Post 1247 in Grand 
Junction, Colorado, and especially the State Department VFW in Colorado, 
who, when I first came up with this idea about doing something like 
this, many people thought it was a crazy idea because a lot of people 
had been injured and they felt that we were going to injure them a 
little further.
     Some of those guys did get hurt and bounced around, but I will tell 
you they bounced right up and really attacked the challenge that lay 
before them.  I will never forget the day the VFW called me, and I was 
worried about having funding and seeing if we could put this program 
together.
     They were right there and they shared our dream and shared our 
vision.  Now, this dream and vision has become a reality.  I look around 
you and I see your motto, ``We'd do anything for this country.''   I 
would say that I will continue to do anything in my power for our 
nation's veterans.  Thank you very much and God bless you all.
     JUNIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF MOON:  Thank you very much, Mr. 
Trombetta.
     At this time, it gives me a great deal of pleasure to introduce 
Comrade George Clark, who is from the Department of Kentucky, a World 
War I veteran, a 96-year-old veteran in World War I. Please join me in 
recognizing Comrade Clark.
     COMRADE GEORGE CLARK (Post 8551 - Kentucky):  I want to thank all 
of you for being here and showing your interest in the battle.  I want 
to tell you that if the thinking that prevailed at the time of World War 
I was present today, a draft dodger would not be in the White House.  
Thank you all.

           OUTSTANDING COMMUNITY HEALTH CARE PROVIDER AWARD

     JUNIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF MOON:  It is my pleasure this 
morning to introduce Yvonne Toth, VFW Outstanding Community Health Care 
Provider of the Year Award.
     This year we are honored to present the VFW Outstanding Community 
Health Care Provider of the Year Award to Ms. Yvonne Toth of Erie, 
Pennsylvania.
     Ms. Toth is a Military Affairs Activities Assistant at the 
Pennsylvania Soldier's and Sailor's Home.  She began her career as a 
nursing assistant and was promoted to a therapist in the Therapeutic 
Activities Department in November, 1985.
     Eve is a dedicated, hard working person whose daily focus is to 
provide all her residents with individual attention and understanding. 
She encourages them to participate in events, crafts and other 
activities designed to enhance the quality of their lives and promote 
good health and well-being.
     With a keen sense of human relations, she understands the 
importance of dignity in life and treats all whom she meets with 
kindness.  A simple smile on the faces of her patients whom she loves 
says it all.
     I am honored to present this year's VFW Outstanding Community 
Health Care Provider of the Year Award to Ms. Yvonne Toth of Erie, 
Pennsylvania.
     ``Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Outstanding 
Community Health Care Provider Award, 1995-1996, presented to Yvonne 
Toth.
     ``In special recognition of your individual achievements in support 
of the programs and purposes of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the 
United States as the Outstanding Community Health Care Provider of the 
Year.
     ``In Witness Whereof, we have hereunto set our hands and the 
official seal of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States this 
22nd day of August, 1996.''  This has been signed by Paul A. Spera, 
Commander-in-Chief, and Larry W. Rivers, Adjutant General.  
Congratulations.

                      RESPONSE - MS. YVONNE TOTH

     MS. TOTH:  I would like to thank you all for the great honor you 
have given me, especially VFW No. 169 of District 28 of Pennsylvania for 
their nomination.  I chose a quotation from Ralph Waldo Emerson that 
best describes the philosophy of life I try to use in my work with 
veterans.
                     ``To love others too much, to win the respect of
           intelligent people and the affection of children.
                     ``To leave the world a bit better.  To know that 
           even one person has breathed easier because I lived.  That is 
           to have succeeded.''

     You knew these men in battle.  I have them afterwards and they are 
still just as brave as when you knew them.  Thank you very much.

                      OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER AWARD

     JUNIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF MOON:  This is the third year that 
the VFW has presented an award recognizing an individual for their 
exemplary service as a health care volunteer. This year's recipient is 
Comrade Joseph Schirmers, a member of VFW Post 4847 in East St. Cloud, 
Minnesota.  
     A Post Hospital Chairman and Service Officer, Comrade Schirmers is 
the Chairman for his Department's Commander's Special Project.  At the 
national level, he is the Big Ten Conference Sergeant-at-Arms and one of 
our own National Assistant Sergeant-at-Arms.  However, the majority of 
Joe's time is spent volunteering at the St. Cloud VA Medical Center.
     Joe's day normally begins at 5:00 o'clock a.m. when he picks up 
donuts and coffee for the patients who have outpatient appointments. His 
daily duties include delivering medical records and mail to the 
inpatient wards.  He assists pharmacy service by packaging medications 
for mailouts to veterans, and somewhere between all those duties, he 
finds time to visit with patients and help feed them their meals.
     Webster's Dictionary defines the word ``volunteer'' as one who 
gives of himself for service to others of his own free will. Joe 
Schirmers gives meaning to the word ``volunteer''.
     I am very, very proud to present this year's VFW Outstanding 
Volunteer of the Year Award to a dear friend, Mr. Joseph Schirmers from 
St. Cloud, Minnesota.
     ``Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Outstanding 
Volunteer Award, 1995-'96, presented to Joseph Schirmers.
     ``In special recognition of your individual achievements in support 
of the programs and purposes of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the 
United States as the Outstanding Volunteer of the Year.
     ``In Witness Whereof, we have hereunto set our hands and the 
official seal of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, this 
22nd day of August, 1996.''  This has been signed by Paul A. Spera, 
Commander-in-Chief, and Larry W. Rivers, Adjutant General.''

               RESPONSE - COMRADE JOSEPH SCHIRMERS

     COMRADE SCHIRMERS:  First of all, let me say that if it wasn't for 
my lovely wife I wouldn't have the enthusiasm. She is with me, and my 
seven children are with me, and this is a great honor.  I have been 
volunteering since I was 27 years old, and that was my life after we 
started out.
     My motto is ``We will do anything for veterans in the  VA.''  At 
this time I would like to have my Post Commander and his wife, who put 
this thing together, to please stand.  Also the State of Minnesota, who 
supported me, and my Post and my Commander-in-Chief, John Staum.
     He said I was his personal aide today, and I appreciate that.  God 
bless you, John, and from the Big Ten, and all the delegates and 
everybody who is here.  I am proud to serve you.  This is 36  years I 
have volunteered.  The best we can do is to help those that are less 
fortunate.
     The ones that are going down the hall, you push me today and maybe 
somebody will push you tomorrow.  That is what we have to keep in mind.  
There are a lot of people figuring they are never going to be there, but 
we are going to be there sometime or other.
     I really appreciate this award.  I humbly receive it in behalf of 
the 2,200,000 veterans that would love to be here with me to share this 
honor.  God bless you all and have a safe trip home, and let's keep on 
working for America.  Thank you very much.

              OUTSTANDING POST SERVICE OFFICER AWARD

     JUNIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF MOON:  This is the fifth year in 
which we recognize the Outstanding National Post Service Officer. The 
Post Service Officer is the crucial first link for veterans and their 
dependents at the ``grassroots'' level.
     This award is presented annually to the VFW Post Service Officer 
who attains the highest percentage of claims assistance referrals.  
These are referrals made on behalf of veterans, their dependents and 
survivors to the appropriate VFW Department Service Officer for 
processing within the Veterans Benefits Administration of the Department 
of Veterans Affairs.
     The recipient of this award, whom we honor here  today, is Comrade 
Dennis Cauley.  Comrade Cauley is Post Service Officer for VFW Post 174 
in Providence, Rhode Island.
     His presence here this morning testifies to the  commitment of 
Comrade Cauley to his duties as a Post Service Officer.  It means that 
he has reached out to members of his Post, dependents of members of his 
Post, survivors of deceased members of his Post, and members of his 
Post's Ladies Auxiliary, and gone that extra mile on their behalf.  His 
service to others is in the finest tradition of our VFW commitment to 
``Honor the Dead by Helping the Living.''
     It is for that reason that we formally recognize him  today.  In 
addition to the personal awards, VFW Post 174, Providence, Rhode Island, 
will receive a plaque recognizing Mr. Cauley's accomplishments.
     Please join me in welcoming Comrade Cauley to be honored by this 
assembly.
     Comrade Cauley, on behalf of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the 
United States, I will give you a pin that you can wear on our lapel as 
the Outstanding Service Officer for 1995-'96.  This is a plaque, 
National Outstanding Post Service Officer Award, presented to Post 174, 
Providence, Rhode Island.
     ``Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Outstanding Post 
Service officer Award presented to Dennis Cauley, Sylvester S. Payne 
Post No. 174, Providence, Rhode Island.
     ``In special recognition for having achieved an exceptional record 
of service to VFW members and their families, marked by a spirit of 
dedication, compassion, selflessness and faithful adherence to the VFW 
principle: `Honor the Dead by Helping the Living.'
     ``In Witness Whereof, we have hereunto set our hands and the 
official seal of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, this 
22nd day of August, 1996.''  This has been signed by Paul A. Spera, 
Commander-in-Chief, and Larry W. Rivers, Adjutant General.

                  RESPONSE - COMRADE DENNIS CAULEY

     COMRADE DENNIS CAULEY (Post 174 - Rhode Island):  I want to thank 
you very much for this award.  I will display it  proudly.  I accept it 
because you people think I am worthy of it.  I am a veteran helping 
other veterans.  That is the name of the game.  Thank you very much.
     (Whereupon, Commander-in-Chief Spera assumed the Chair at this 
time.)

               INTRODUCTION OF PAST COMMANDERS-IN-CHIEF

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  This is not going to take me long to 
present the Past Commanders-in-Chief that are present because there are 
only four present.
     From 1958 to 1959, Past Commander-in-Chief John W. Mahan.
     1978-1979, Past Commander-in-Chief Eric G. Sandstrom.
     From 1989 to 1990, Past Commander-in-Chief Walter G. Hogan.
     From 1991 to 1992, Past Commander-in-Chief Robert E. Wallace.

               INTRODUCTION OF NATIONAL SERGEANTS-AT-ARMS

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Each year at our Convention and at 
various functions during the year we have a dedicated group of 
individuals, sometimes you get mad at them and sometimes they get mad at 
you.  They always follow the instructions of the Chair, though, and they 
do a great job for us.
     They keep order, they keep decorum and they always do it looking 
great.  So, at this time it is a pleasure for me to introduce to you 
your National Sergeants-at-Arms.  From Post 402, Department of 
Pennsylvania, with 27 years of service, George Sarver.
     From Post 2083, Department of Connecticut, with 20 years of 
service, Nicholas Polansky.  From Post 4159, Michigan, with 19 years of 
service, Fred VonHinken.  From Post 1645, Massachusetts, with 13 years 
of service, Carl C. Aiello.  From Post 6240, Kansas, with eight years of 
service, Barry Hoffman.
     From Post 4206, Florida, with five years of service, Bill Miller.  
From Post 2275, California, two years of service, Keith McDonald.  From 
Post 1911, with on year of service, and his first Convention, Dan Brown.  
From Post 9134, North Carolina, one year of service, and his first 
Convention, Gary Barringer.
     And the Senior, from Post 4847, Minnesota, with 34 years of service 
to the National Sergeants-at-Arms, Joe Schirmers.  Give them a big hand.
     (Whereupon, the assembly extended a prolonged standing ovation.)
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Sergeants-at-Arms, you will kindly seek 
out and escort to this podium the Representatives from our National 
Home.
     NATIONAL SERGEANT-AT-ARMS SARVER:  Comrade Commander-in-Chief, we 
have accomplished your order, sir.

                 VISIT OF NATIONAL HOME REPRESENTATIVES

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  At this time let me bring to this podium 
the President of the Board of Directors of the  VFW National Home, 
Edward Sanders.
     COMRADE EDWARD SANDERS:  Comrade Commander-in-Chief, National 
Officers, Past Commanders-in-Chief and my Comrades:
     It is an honor for me to appear before you today bringing you 
greetings from the entire Board of Trustees of the National Home and the 
staff.  It is good to tell you that the National Home is alive and well.  
We now have 70 children on campus and 70 in college.
     We are doing great.  Our forefathers in 1925 had the knowledge and 
the wisdom to establish the National Home. Seventy-one years later we 
are still doing well and finally are moving into the 21st century.
     On May 30th, I had the opportunity to attend a graduation party for 
the May graduates.  Near the end of the evening a young lady said to me, 
who had just graduated from the university, she said, ``Mr. Sanders, 
will you do something for me?''  I said, ``I will be more than happy 
to.''
     She said, ``Will you tell the VFW thank you.''  She said, ``If it 
were not for the VFW and the VFW National Home, I would not be where I 
am today.''  She said, ``Just tell them thanks for me.''  That is what 
your National Home means to these children.  We will go ahead with your 
support and continue this.
     Chief, I know our schedule doesn't jive too well this year, but I 
do have something for you to remember the National Home during your 
visit last October, and I wish you a most successful Convention this 
year.  I think you have had a great year.
     At this time I would like to introduce the Executive Director of 
the National Home, Susan Shoultz.
     NATIONAL HOME DIRECTOR SHOULTZ:  I am a little shorter and I had to 
move those down a little bit.  To our Commander-in-Chief Paul Spera, 
National Officers, Past Commanders-in-Chief and to you the fine comrades 
of this organization:
     The National Home has served the children and grandchildren of 
members for over 71 years and we are preparing for the future at this 
time.  How we carry on the mission for caring for children while serving 
as a living memorial for our nation's veterans.
     Almost three years ago I was directed by the Board of Trustees to 
increase the number of children utilizing the services of the National 
Home while at the same time creating a financial, secure organization.  
I am pleased to say that the 1995-'96 year is the first year that it has 
shown the results of our hard work
     The expense for 1995-'96 was $400,000.  The last time our expenses 
were under $400,000 was 1988.  During the 1995-'96 year, the number of 
children that entered the National Home doubled the admissions over the 
two previous years.  While the  average number of children at the 
National Home was 70, the National Home cared for over 113 individuals 
during this past year. 
     For the `96-'97 year, we will continue to increase the number of 
children and to continue on with the plans to reduce expenses and 
prepare the program for children who will  come to us and find a home 
and a new beginning.  This week you have had many important guests visit 
you at this Convention to ask for your support and to tell you what they 
can do for you in order to earn that support.
     I, too, am here to ask for your continued support. There is maybe 
nothing I can do for you personally, but I can and will assure each of 
you that the National Home will  continue to stand as a living memorial 
for all who served our country during the wars.
     It is my pleasure to introduce to you a young lady from the 
Department of Illinois that has come to the National Home.  Her name is 
Elena Hancock.

                   REMARKS BY 1996 BUDDY POPPY CHILD

     BUDDY POPPY CHILD ELENA HANCOCK:  Hello, everyone.  My name is 
Elena Hancock.  I am eight years old.  I like to play on the monkey 
bars.  I like to play and sing.  I like to swing and I like my parents, 
and I love Sue and I love my mom and dad, and when I grow up I want to 
be a teacher.  Thank you very much.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  That is the first pin. She will be 
coming out into the audience.  She loves to collect pins.  Everybody get 
your pins ready for her.  She brought a bag to fill it up.  Thank you 
very much.  

                    NOMINATION OF COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  At this time nominations are now open 
for the office of Commander-in-Chief for the year 1996-1997.  Nominating 
first will be Ted C. Connell, Past Commander-in-Chief.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF TED CONNELL (Post 9192 -Texas):  Comrade 
Commander-in-Chief, I rise for two things, one to give you an update 
that we just received.  The Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief, they believe 
they have his fever checked, and they are keeping him for a while to 
undergo some further tests, and he still hopes that he will be with us 
tomorrow for the installation.
     Comrade Commander-in-Chief, I come forth to place in nomination the 
name that we all know, a man that we are extremely proud of.  I could 
give you his complete history, but you have heard it many times this 
year.  So in the interest of time, I would simply rise to place the name 
of Jim Nier for Commander-in-Chief of our illustrative organization.  
Thank you, Commander.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you.
     For the purpose of seconding the nomination, the Chair recognizes 
Glen Gardner from the Department of Texas.
     COMRADE GLEN GARDNER (Post 3359 - Texas):  Thank you, Commander-in-
Chief.  Commander-in-Chief, National Officers, State Officers, Fellow 
Comrades and Friends:
     I stand before you today with pride, with confidence  and with 
admiration, and with optimism to second the nomination of my friend 
James E. Nier from VFW Post 8919, El Paso, Texas, for the office of 
National Commander-in-Chief for 1996-'97.  With pride, we can add the 
name James E. Nier with that of Ted Connell and T. C. Selman, two of the 
greatest Commanders-in-Chief in our 97 year history, as another Texan 
leader that will go on to lead our great organization on the National 
level.
     With confidence, Jim Nier will not only do the same thing, but he 
will join Ted Connell and T. C. Selman to provide this organization the 
type of leadership necessary at this crucial time in our history.  With 
admiration for a comrade who proudly served his country as a member of 
the United States Army for 22 years, who continues to serve more than 
55,000 veterans of El Paso County, at the El Paso Veterans Council, who 
has served his Post, his District and his Department of Texas admirably 
and as demanded, and has served the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the 
United States on the national level; and most of all, with optimism, 
optimism that the programs brought forth by Commander-in-Chief Nier 
during 1996-'97 will help rejuvenate our great force and shore up the 
foundation that is necessary for the future of the Veterans of Foreign 
Wars of the United States.
     Optimism that is brought with the knowledge that Jim Nier will use 
the same leadership traits that made him successful as a Post Commander 
in `89-'90 in El Paso, Texas, District 10 Commander and All-American 
Commander of the Department of Texas.
     Leadership dictates that you listen to other leaders, to the 
professional staff in Kansas City and Washington, and most of all, to 
you, my comrades, the grassroots members of this great organization 
where decisions are made and programs are changed.
     Therefore, comrades and delegates to this 97th Annual Convention to 
the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, I ask for your help, 
your support and your vote for Jim Nier as National Commander-in-Chief 
of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States for 1996-'97.  
Thank you.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  For the purpose of seconding the 
nomination, we have Bill E. Lark, Past State Commander from Columbia, 
South Carolina.
     COMRADE BILL LARK (Post 4262 - South Carolina):  Thank you, 
Commander-in-Chief.  My fellow comrades, I stand before you with great 
pride to second the nomination of James E. Nier for Commander-in-Chief 
of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States of America.  Thank 
you.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  And showing support of solidarity we 
have the 1989-'90 Commanders who served with Jim Nier under Wally Hogan, 
Past Commander-in-Chief.
     To make it official for the record, since he is not present here 
this morning, we do have a letter on file from James E. Nier that he 
will accept the nomination.  Are there any further nominations for the 
office of Commander-in-Chief?  Are there any further nominations for the 
office of Commander-in-Chief?  Are there any further nominations for the 
office of Commander-in-Chief?  Hearing none, the nominations will be 
held open until tomorrow morning at election time. 
     Nominations are now open for the office of Senior Vice Commander-
in-Chief.  The Chair recognizes Roger Taylor, the State Senior Vice 
Commander, Post 2873, Grover Hill, Ohio, for a nomination.

            NOMINATION OF SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF

     COMRADE ROGER TAYLOR (Post 2873 - Ohio):  Commander-in-Chief Paul 
Spera, Officers, Delegates, Members and Guests to this 97th National 
Convention, the greatest veterans organization ever, the Veterans of 
Foreign Wars of the United States:  Some nine years ago in Cincinnati, 
just up the river from here, I had the distinction and the distinguished 
honor and pleasure of nominating a man to become the first Vietnam 
veteran to serve as Commander of Ohio.
     I am now pleased and honored to place his nomination today for the 
high office of Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief. One year ago in Arizona, 
the great VFW members chose my good friend and comrade, John Moon, to 
represent you as your Junior  Vice Commander-in-Chief.
     I feel you made a magnificent choice.  John has served our 
organization with distinction this past year.  That is no surprise to 
fellow members from the Buckeye State as he has served our Department 
with distinction for over 26 years. John is a Marine veteran who served 
with the 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Division in Vietnam.
     Among his many awards are the Vietnam Service Medal, the Three 
Bronze Stars, Vietnam Campaign Medal and the Vietnamese Cross of 
Gallantry, Combat Ribbon and National Defense Service Medal.  Although 
he has been active in all levels of our organization, John's roots have 
never left his home Post of Grover Hill.
     He has been Adjutant for 14 terms and served as our Commander three 
times, twice being named All-State Post  Commander.  He has served our 
County Council.  He was Ohio's District Commander in 1974-'75, and he 
was named All-American Department Commander.
     He went on to serve us well in our great organization as a member 
of the National Council of Administration.  In his distinguished VFW 
career, he has shown the ability, dedication, knowledge and 
determination to serve our organization as Senior Vice Commander-in-
Chief.
     It has been said that the men and women of the VFW will do anything 
for this country.  I proudly nominate today a man that will do anything 
for the Veterans of Foreign Wars.  My good comrades, I am indeed honored 
to nominate for the high office of Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief, a 
great spokesman for this nation's veterans, and the Veterans of Foreign 
Wars of the United States, a true leader from the Big Ten Conference and 
the great State of Ohio, my good friend John E. Moon.
     For the purpose of seconding this nomination, I call on Craig 
Swartz, State Commander, Post 2947, Fremont, Ohio.
     COMRADE CRAIG SWARTZ (Post 2947 - Ohio):  Commander-in-Chief Spera, 
National Officers, Past Commanders-in-Chief and Delegates to the 
National Convention:
     It is with extreme pride that I stand before you today as the 
Department Commander of Ohio, who in 1987-'88 served as Post Commander 
when John Moon held this office.  He is a man of sole leadership and 
single minded-ship of the concerns of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
     He has been a true friend and person to me, and he will be a true 
friend to all Veterans of Foreign Wars and a fellow Marine.  It is an 
honor to second the nomination of John E. Moon for Senior Vice 
Commander-in-Chief for the year 1996-`97.  
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  I call on Past Commander-in-Chief Walter 
G. Hogan, Post 6498, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, for the purpose of a second.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF WALTER HOGAN (Post 6498 - Wisconsin):  
Thank you, Commander-in-Chief Paul.  National Officers, Past Commanders-
in-Chief and the Delegates to this 97th National Convention:
     One year ago, I had the high honor of seconding the nomination of 
this young American for the office of Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief.  I 
have watched this individual for many years as he moved through the 
various chairs of our organization.
     I was impressed then as I am now.  It gives me a great honor and 
privilege to second the nomination of John Moon for the office of Senior 
Vice Commander-in-Chief of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States.  Thank you.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Are there any other nominations for the 
office of Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief? Are there any other 
nominations for the office of Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief?  Are there 
any other nominations for the office of Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief?  
Hearing none, the nominations will remain open until tomorrow morning.

            NOMINATION OF JUNIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Nominations are now open for the office 
of Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief.  For the purpose of a nomination, I 
call upon John W. Mahan, Past Commander-in-Chief, Post 1116, Helena, 
Montana.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF JOHN MAHAN (Post 1116 -Montana):  I am here 
to nominate a friend, a colleague and a comrade, Tom Pouliot.  Tom was 
born in 1943, after our first Commander from Montana, Bob Merrill, who 
is over 100 years old, had already left office.
     He was 11 years old when I held the job as Junior  Vice Commander-
in-Chief.  This young man is one of 11 children in the family, ten 
brothers and sisters.  His father was a great member of the VFW, his 
mother of the Auxiliary.  He grew up with the VFW.
     When he was 18, he joined the Navy, from 1962 to 1966.  He was an 
air crewman in Vietnam.  After his service to his country, he graduated 
from San Jose College in California.  He returned to Montana and gained 
a Doctor of Jurisprudence in Law.  He is an attorney, a judge, and in my 
opinion, he has done everything he can do in the VFW up to now in the 
state and the local level.
     He has been Post Commander, District Commander, All-American State 
Commander, a member of the National Council of Administration, the Judge 
Advocate General, Vice-Chairman of the Voice of Democracy, the 
Americanism Committee, Chairman of the Legislative National Committee.
     I nominate the man with the right stuff, Tom Pouliot,  as Junior 
Vice Commander-in-Chief.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Seconding this nomination is Eric 
Sandstrom, Past Commander-in-Chief, Post 969, Tacoma, Washington.
     PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF ERIC SANDSTROM (Post 969 -Washington):  
Thank you, Comrade Commander-in-Chief.  It is not often that a Marine 
stands up here to second the nomination of a sailor.  I am proud to do 
it at this time.  I did not know what kind of a sailor he was, neither 
do I know what kind of a lawyer he is, but I do know what kind of a man 
he is.
     Tom Pouliot is always friendly, always dedicated.  He certainly is 
well qualified.  He is always a gentleman above all, and always down to 
earth.  Besides, he has a cute wife.  It is a great honor for me as an 
old, old Marine to second the nomination of a young, young swabby as 
Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief of this great organization.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  For the purpose of seconding the 
nomination, I call on George Riedel, Jr., Past State Commander, Post 
969, Tacoma, Washington.
     COMRADE GEORGE RIEDEL (Post 969 - Washington):  Commander-in-Chief 
and Delegates to this great 97th National Convention of the VFW, my name 
is George Riedel.  I am from the Department of Washington.  I am very 
honored to stand before you and second the nomination of Tom Pouliot for 
the office of Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief.
     The Western Conference has given us the best man for the job, a 
dedicated team player, who is ready to join the above and beyond team 
for 1996-'97.  Thank you, Montana, for giving us your favorite son for 
this all important job.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Are there any further nominations for 
the office of Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief? Are there any further 
nominations?  Are there any further nominations?  Hearing none, the 
nominations will remain open until tomorrow morning.

                  NOMINATION OF QUARTERMASTER GENERAL

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Nominations are now open for the office 
of Quartermaster General.  For the purpose of a nomination, I recognize 
William J. Radigan, State Adjutant-Quartermaster, Post 3061, Vermillion, 
South Dakota.  
     COMRADE WILLIAM RADIGAN (Post 3061 - South Dakota): Comrade 
Commander-in-Chief, National Officers and Delegates to this 97th 
National Convention:  It is a privilege for me this morning to come 
before you joined by representatives of all the conferences for the 
purpose of placing in nomination the name of a comrade in the office of 
Quartermaster General.
     Joining me are Precilla Wilkewitz from Louisiana, representing the 
Southern Conference; Bill McCarthy, from the Department of 
Massachusetts, representing the Eastern Conference; Rhett Daverio from 
California, representing the Western Conference; and David Roath from 
Missouri representing the Big Ten, along with me.
     It has been my privilege in the term of office that I have held for 
some time as Adjutant/Quartermaster of South Dakota to work with Past 
Quartermasters General: Bob Handy, Al Cheatham, Herb Irwin, James Bowden 
and Joe Ridgley.  I have watched the first three as they patiently and 
carefully trained their successor.
     It has been a pleasure for me to work with those people.  As we 
come here today, it probably will be appropriate for me to outline for 
you all the proper qualifications of Joe Ridgley whom I am going to 
nominate.  I will make it brief and I will tell you simply that Joe 
Ridgley has the desire to serve in this office.
     I believe that is brought forth to all of us by the fact that he 
had worked for more than 20 years in the Veterans of Foreign Wars in the 
Quartermaster General's Office to prepare himself to serve us as he 
currently does.  He is a  young man that has the desire to do it.
     He has the energy to meet the challenge.  I think that after this 
week you will all realize that sometimes it is difficult, but he is 
willing and he knows what has to be done.  In addition to all of that, 
Joe has the education and the technical knowledge that this office 
requires.
     We are fortunate that we have Joe Ridgley.  So today, as my 
colleagues join with me, we present to you our nomination  collectively 
of Joe Ridgley, Post 8220, Belton, Missouri, for  the office of 
Quartermaster General of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  For the purpose of seconding the 
nomination, I recognize the State Quartermaster from Missouri.
     COMRADE DAVID ROATH (Post 5606 - Missouri):  Comrade Commander-in-
Chief, National Officers, Past National Commanders and Delegates to the 
97th National Convention:
     It is indeed an honor for me to stand before you  today to second 
the nomination of an outstanding, dedicated comrade, a comrade who has 
served this organization from its Post level through the National level, 
a comrade who is presently serving us as Quartermaster General and who 
puts the interest of our organization in the forefront.
     He is a comrade willing to help when help is asked for.  It is an 
added pleasure for me as this comrade is a member of my Department, the 
Department of Missouri, and is a Life Member of VFW Post 8220 in Belton, 
Missouri.  I, along with the other Department Quartermasters of the Big 
Ten Conference, the Western Conference, the Eastern Conference and the 
Southern Conference, who are represented here today at the microphone, 
proudly second the nomination of Joe Ridgley as our Quartermaster 
General of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Are there any further nominations for 
the office of Quartermaster General?  Are there any further nominations?  
Are there any further nominations?  Hearing none, the nominations will 
remain open until tomorrow morning.
     Nominations are now open for the office of Judge Advocate General.  
For the purpose of a nomination, I call upon Ray Sisk, National Council 
member, Post 97, Bakersfield, California.

                    NOMINATION OF JUDGE ADVOCATE GENERAL

     COMRADE RAY SISK (Post 97 - California):  Commander-in-Chief, 
National Officers, Past Commanders-in-Chief, and in particular to my 
comrades and the delegates at this 97th National Convention:
     It is my privilege to stand before you and put the name of Leonard  
Herrst as your Judge Advocate General in nomination.  I will let you 
know a little bit about him.  Lenny is a World War II veteran serving 
aboard the Battleships USS Iowa and the Life Cruiser Topeka in the 
Pacific Areas in World War II.
     Lenny has a degree from the University of Minnesota, the University 
of Southern California, and a Juris Doctorate degree from Loyola of Los 
Angeles.  He is in general practice in Lawrence, California, and semi-
retired.  Although Lenny was eligible for this organization in 1945, no 
one asked him until 1971.
     That is how he became a member and the next year he became a Life 
Member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.  Besides serving on numerous 
committees as chair and a member at the various levels of our great 
organization, he has served as Judge Advocate of his Post, Judge 
Advocate of the District, and as Judge Advocate of the Department of 
California.
     In the year 1993-'94, he won the Kansas City trip, the Washington 
Conference trip as the District Commander.  He was the All-State Team 
Captain in California and an All-American District Commander in 1993-
'94, so you know you have got a working Judge Advocate General.
     He is presently our Department Judge Advocate, District Judge 
Advocate and Post Judge Advocate, and now we are asking for your support 
for him as the Judge Advocate General.  I proudly  place in nomination 
the name of Leonard Herrst from California for Judge Advocate General.  
Thank you very much.
      COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  For purposes of seconding the 
nomination, we have Robert C. Marr, the State Commander, Post 7283, 
Lancaster, California.
     COMRADE ROBERT MARR (Post 7283 - California):  Thank you, 
Commander-in-Chief.  Fellow comrades, some things come just a little 
easier than others.  Accordingly, it will be easy for me to perform this 
important task today.  Comrade Lenny Herrst is exceptionally well 
qualified.
     He is dedicated and he has all these qualities in one package.  It 
is my honor and privilege to second the nomination for Judge Advocate 
General of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Leonard 
Herrst.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Are there any further nominations for 
the office of Judge Advocate General?  Are there any further 
nominations?  Are there any further  nominations?  Hearing none, the 
nominations will be held open until tomorrow morning.
     Nominations are now open for the office of Surgeon General.  For 
the purpose of a nomination, I call to the podium Gordon W. Kirk, 
National Council member, Post 8854, St. Paul, Minnesota.

                   NOMINATION OF SURGEON GENERAL

     COMRADE GORDON KIRK (Post 8854 - Minnesota):  Thank you, Commander-
in-Chief. National Officers, Comrades,  Delegates and Friends:
     It gives me great pleasure to nominate a comrade and a friend for 
National Surgeon General.  Comrade Reif graduated from the University of 
Minnesota Medical School in 1949, certified by the American Board of 
Family Practice in 1971, recertified again in 1977 and 1983.
     He is a member of the Minnesota Medical Society, the American 
Medical Association and the Minnesota State Medical Association and the 
American Academy of Family Physicians, and Past President of the 
Minnesota Chapter in 1973-'74. He was Director of Medical Health 
Education at St. John's Hospital from 1993 until the present, and 
Director of Medical Affairs, St. John's Hospital, January, 1990 to 1993.
     He was Vice-President of the Medical Affairs for Health East from 
1986 to 1989. He is a member of the governing board of the State 
Veterans Home from 1988 until 1993, and a member of the State 
Legislature, the House of Representatives, District 53-B, elected in 
November, 1978, and re-elected again in 1980 and 1982.
     He served on the Governor's Task Force on Ethics, on the Metro Task 
Force for Future Health and Care Planning in 1981 and 1982.  He served 
on the Governor's Advisory Committee on Chemicals Efficiency Treatment 
in 1981.  He has a Combat Badge, Medical Badge, Medical Corpsman and 
European Theater in 1943 to 1947, Captain in the U.S. Army Medical Corps 
from 1951 to 1952.
     He is a Life Member of Post 1782, White Bear Lake, Minnesota, and 
was National Surgeon General, 1992-'93, of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.  
He was Department Surgeon from 1992 until the present.  At this time, 
comrades, I place in nomination the name of Robert W. Reif, M.D., from 
the great State of Minnesota and a member of the Big Ten Conference for 
the office of Surgeon General.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  For the purpose of seconding the 
nomination, I call on Orlin Jackson, State Commander, Post 1720, Grand 
Rapids, Minnesota.
     COMRADE ORLIN JACKSON (Post 1720 - Minnesota):  Commander-in-Chief 
Paul and the rest of the comrades, it gives me great pleasure, after 
listening to the biography of Dr Reif, I know he is well qualified to be 
the Surgeon General, to second the nomination.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Are there any further nominations for 
the office of Surgeon General?  Are there any further nominations?  Are 
there any further nominations? Hearing none, the nominations will remain 
open until tomorrow morning.
     Nominations are now open for the office of National Chaplain.  For 
the purpose of a nomination, I call to the podium George Lisicki, 
National Council member, Post 2314, Carteret, New Jersey.

                   NOMINATION OF NATIONAL CHAPLAIN

     COMRADE GEORGE LISICKI (Post 2324 - New Jersey):   Comrade 
Commander-in-Chief, National Officers, Past Commanders-in-Chief and 
Delegates to the 97th National Convention:
      This morning I have the honor and privilege to place the name of 
Reverend William J. Bleiler from Mullica Hill, New Jersey, in nomination 
for the high office of National Chaplain of the Veterans of Foreign Wars 
for 1996-1997.  Starting in life as a young plumber, Father Bleiler was 
drafted into the United States Army and earned his eligibility for the 
VFW Occupation Forces in Germany as a member of the Military Police.
     Following his Army service, he entered the seminary under the G.I. 
Bill and was ordained as a priest on January 6, 1966, by his Holiness 
Pope Paul VI in St. Peters Basilica.  He is now a member of the diocese 
of Camden, New Jersey.
     He is a member of VFW Post 10886, where he serves as Chaplain and 
also serves as Chaplain of his District to the Department of New Jersey, 
and since 1994 as Chaplain of our Eastern States Conference.  I am proud 
and privileged to place the name of William J. Bleiler in nomination for 
the high office of National Chaplain for 1996-1997.  Thank you.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  For the purpose of a seconding speech, I 
call to the microphone Dennis Wall, State Commander, Post 7164, Avenel, 
New Jersey.
     COMRADE DENNIS WALL (Post 7164 - New Jersey):  Commander-in-Chief, 
National Officers, Past National Commanders-in-Chief, and Delegates to 
them 97th National Convention:
     I stand before you with great pride and honor to second the 
nomination of an outstanding priest with the Department of New Jersey, 
Father William Bleiler.  As George Lisicki says, he is our District 
Chaplain.  He has done an excellent job in the Department of New Jersey.  
I proudly second that nomination.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Are there any further nominations for 
the office of National Chaplain?  Are there any further nominations?  
Are there any further nominations? Hearing none, all nominations are 
held open until tomorrow morning.

                      WINNERS OF INSURANCE DRAWING

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  At this time I call to the microphone 
the Assistant Quartermaster General for an announcement.
     ASSISTANT QUARTERMASTER GENERAL LARRY MAHER:  Very briefly, again I 
would like to announce the insurance drawing winners as drawn by the 
Commander-in-Chief earlier this morning.
     The $25 winner is Perry A. Martinson, Post 1222, Minnesota.
     The $50 winner is Daniel H. Heye, Post 2266, California.
     The $100 winner is Baucom B. Hinson of Post 4411.
     The $1,000 winner is John Rettagliata, Post 10367, Nevada.
      COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Tomorrow the session will begin at 9:00 
o'clock a.m.  I again would like to thank each and every one of you that 
has remained for this Convention session this morning, by being here and 
being interested in the business of the VFW.
     Sergeant-at-Arms, you will prepare the room for the Salute to the 
Colors and the Closing Ceremonies.
     SERGEANT-AT-ARMS SARVER:  Comrades, please stand at attention and 
face the flag of our nation and salute.
      (Whereupon, National Chaplain Lyle Kell gave the Closing Prayer 
according to the Ritual.)
     SERGEANT-AT-ARMS SARVER: Commander-in-Chief, the Closing Ceremonies 
have been performed.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you.  This meeting is recessed 
until 9:00 o'clock tomorrow morning.
     (Whereupon, the meeting was duly recessed at 12:30 o'clock p.m.)


                          FOURTH BUSINESS SESSION
                          FRIDAY, AUGUST 23, 1996

     (The Fourth Business Session of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the 
United States, meeting in the Commonwealth Convention Center, 
Louisville, Kentucky, was called to order at 9:00 o'clock a.m., with 
Commander-in-Chief Paul A. Spera presiding.)

                                CALL TO ORDER

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Sergeant-at-Arms, you will prepare the 
room for the Opening Ceremonies.

                  SALUTE  TO COLORS AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

     SERGEANT-AT-ARMS SARVER:  Comrades, will you please rise and facing 
the flag of our nation, stand at attention and salute.
     (Whereupon, the Pledge of Allegiance was given at this time.)

                               OPENING PRAYER

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  I will call on Comrade Chaplain Lyle 
Kell at this time.
     NATIONAL CHAPLAIN KELL:  Comrades, before I say the Opening Prayer, 
since this will be the last time I will be before you, I really have 
appreciated being your National Chaplain and I wanted to say that I have 
been working in and will continue to work in the field of post-traumatic 
stress disorder for veterans.
     The State of Washington has put out a brochure.  I think it is the 
only state in the union that has done that, and it is filled with the 
symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorders.  If any of you or any of 
your comrades that you know need help in this department, please contact 
your service officer to do so.
     Also I want you to know this, and I will share it with you so you 
can also be a part of it, this is to request that Lyle Kell, National 
Chaplain of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States be invited 
to be a guest chaplain for the U.S. House of Representatives.  That 
paperwork is in the mill.  I am really thankful for it.  Shall we pray.
     As we pray, let us all stop and have a special prayer for our new 
Commander-in-Chief.
     (Whereupon, National Chaplain Kell gave the Opening Prayer from the 
Ritual.)
     SERGEANT-AT-ARMS SARVER:  Comrade Commander-in-Chief, the Opening 
Ceremonies have been performed.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you.  At this time I would like to 
call on the Chairman of the National Credentials Committee, Richard 
Trombla from Post 1174 in Kansas to give his final report.  As he is 
coming up, allow me to introduce the rest of the Committee.
     The Vice-Chairman is Elwood B. Rickards, Post 7234 from Delaware; 
Vice-Chairman James L. Mascola, Post 3580, Illinois; Vice-Chairman James 
A. Kennedy, Post 3877, Minnesota; and Vice-Chairman James H. Willis, 
Post 534, Missouri.

                FINAL REPORT OF CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE

     COMRADE RICHARD TROMBLA (Post 1174 - Kansas):  Comrade Commander-
in-Chief and Comrades, I am Richard Trombla, Post 1174, Kansas, Chairman 
of the National Credentials Committee.  This is the last report and the 
final report at this Convention.  The total delegates, 13,369; 1 Member-
at-Large; Department Commanders, 53; National Officers, 39; Past 
Commanders-in-Chief, 26.  That is for a grand total of 13,487.
     Comrade Commander-in-Chief, this is the final report.  I request 
that you dismiss this Committee.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you.  Having accepted the final 
Credentials Report, the National Credentials Committee will be dismissed 
with the thanks of the Chair and the Convention for a job well done.  
Thank you very much.

                    COMPLETION OF CONVENTION BUSINESS

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Do we have any further Convention 
business to come before us?
     COMRADE JOHN SENK (Post 335 - New Jersey):  I move that the 
proceedings of the Veterans of Foreign Wars 97th National Convention be 
submitted to the Speaker of the House  of Representatives for printing 
as a House document in accordance with Public Law No. 620, 90th 
Congress, approved October 2, 1968, Title 214 of the United States 
Codes, Section 1332.
     JUNIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF JOHN MOON (Post 2783 - Ohio):  I 
proudly second the motion.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion has been made and properly 
seconded.  Is there any discussion on the motion? Is there any 
discussion on the motion?  Hearing none, all those in favor of the 
motion will say ``aye''; those opposed ``nay''. The ``ayes'' have it.  
The motion carried.
     Before we continue with the business of the organization, I am sure 
everybody is interested and concerned about our Senior Vice Commander-
in-Chief.  They are with him now at the hospital.  The people have gone 
to visit him this morning.
     They notified me that he is resting comfortably.  He is showing 
some improvement.  He is able to speak better, and he sends his best 
wishes to everyone here and thanks all of you for your prayers. There is 
some indication he may have had a slight heart attack yesterday.
     He is resting comfortably and his prognosis right now is good.  
What we will do is proceed with all of the proceedings this morning, and 
Past Commander-in-Chief Ted Connell, once the elections are over, will 
install the new Commander-in-Chief in his hospital room and everything 
else will take place here.
     So I am sure that each and every one of you will keep Jim in your 
prayers as you travel home.  We will keep everyone posted somehow on his 
condition once the Convention ends.
     At this time I will call on Assistant Adjutant General John Senk 
for an announcement.

                  NOMINATIONS FOR NATIONAL HOME TRUSTEES

     ASSISTANT ADJUTANT GENERAL JOHN SENK:  Thank you, Chief.  As 
prescribed in the by-laws, the candidates for the Fifth National Home 
District, representing Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, 
Florida, Georgia, Alabama and Central America, have submitted to the 
Adjutant General's Office Helen Carmarato, Ladies Auxiliary to VFW Post 
1658, Ball Harbor, Florida; also Ann Dielens, Ladies Auxiliary to VFW 
Post 6925, Mulberry, Florida; and Clara McCrary, Ladies Auxiliary to VFW 
Post 2573, Wilmington, North Carolina.
     For the Eighth National Home District, representing Illinois and 
Indiana, William N. Hedge, VFW Post No. 5782, Elwood, Indiana, and 
Edward F. Sanders, VFW Post No. 360, Mishawaka, Indiana.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you very much. This is my final 
chance to say thank you to each and every one of you.  The Chinese 
proverb says that a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single 
step.  I took that step more than 30 years ago while I was in the 
Republic of Vietnam, received an application from Boston Post 144, and 
an invitation to join the VFW.
     The next thousand miles of that journey have been challenging and 
fulfilling, challenging because of all the things we as veterans face, 
all of the things that need to be done for America that we do on a daily 
basis and fulfilling because of you.
     I have had the opportunity to stand shoulder to shoulder with the 
greatest bunch of American heroes that anyone could have the opportunity 
to serve with.  Anything that I have been able to accomplish in 30 years 
for the Veterans of Foreign Wars has been because of you.
     Whether it is that special group of people at 246 Hanover Street in 
Boston, Massachusetts, or in District 2, or the Department of 
Massachusetts, the Eastern Conference, or all of you in the VFW, the 
successes have not been mine.  They have been yours.
     Every step along the way I have realized that you have given me an 
honor and a privilege to serve this organization, to serve America's 
veterans and to serve America. I hope, and this was the hope I had when 
I took the oath of office a year ago, I hope that your feelings for me 
today are as high as they were on that day.
     I hope that this past year as Commander-in-Chief I have conducted 
myself in a manner in which you would have expected me to conduct 
myself.  I hope that you believe that the Veterans of Foreign Wars of 
the United States is a little bit better because I have been here.
     If you believe that, then I have been a success.  If I have been 
successful, so have you.  To all of you, but most especially, to my 
wife, to my family, to my children, to all of those in my personal life 
who for nearly 30 years have missed me on important occasions, for all 
of the things I have missed that I probably shouldn't have, and for all 
of the time that I stole away from them so that I could serve the VFW, I 
will spend the rest of my life saying thank you to them, especially, and 
to my wife.
     With that, thank you and God bless you all and God bless America.
     (Whereupon, the assembly extended a prolonged standing ovation.)

                          ELECTION OF OFFICERS

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  We will now proceed with nominations and 
election of officers for the 1996-1997 VFW year.  The name of James Nier 
has been placed in nomination for the office of Commander-in-Chief.  Are 
there any further nominations for the office of Commander-in-Chief?  Are 
there any further nominations for the office of Commander-in-Chief?  Are 
there any further nominations?  
     Hearing none, the Chair will recognize Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE ALEXANDER VERNON (Post 9191 - Texas):  I make a motion that 
the Commander-in-Chief be elected by acclamation.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  I have a motion on the floor.  Do I have 
a second to that motion?
     COMRADE ED KRENEK (Post 8787 - Texas):  I second the motion.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion has been made and properly 
seconded that the Convention elect by acclamation to the office of 
Commander-in-Chief, James E. Nier from the great State of Texas.  All 
those in favor will signify by saying ``aye''.  Those opposed.  The 
``ayes'' have it.  The motion has carried.
     The family of the newly-elected Commander will be escorted around 
the hall by Alexander Vernon, the Texas Commander.
     Nominations are now open for the office of Senior Vice Commander-
in-Chief.  The name of John E. Moon, from the Department of Ohio, has 
been placed into nomination for the office of Senior Vice Commander-in-
Chief.  Are there any further other nominations?  Are there any further 
nominations?  Are there any further nominations?
     Hearing none, the Chair recognizes Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE GEORGE FOX (Post 6772 - Ohio):  Comrade Commander-in-Chief, 
I move that nominations for Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief of this great 
organization be closed.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Would you like to finish that, and that 
we cast one ballot for John Moon, please?
     COMRADE GEORGE FOX (Post 6772 - Ohio):  I move that the Adjutant 
General cast one unanimous ballot for John Moon for Senior Vice 
Commander-in-Chief.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you.  Do I have a second to that 
motion?                     
     COMRADE GEORGE COX (Department of Ohio):  I second that motion.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion has been made and seconded.  
On the question, all those in favor will signify by saying ``aye''; all 
those opposed.  The ``ayes'' have it.  The Adjutant General will cast 
one unanimous ballot for John Moon for Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief.
     ASSISTANT ADJUTANT GENERAL JOHN SENK:  Commander-in-Chief, it is an 
honor for me on behalf of the Adjutant General to cast one ballot for 
the election of John Moon for Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief of the 
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Nominations are now open for the office 
of Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief.  The name of Thomas A. Pouliot, from 
the great State of Montana, has been nominated as the candidate for 
Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief. Any further nominations?  Are there any 
further nominations? Are there any further nominations?
     Hearing none, I recognize Microphone No. 1.
     PAST COMMANDER IN CHIEF JOHN MAHAN (Post 1116 - Montana):  I move 
that the nominations be closed for Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief, of 
the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States and that the Adjutant 
General be instructed to cast a unanimous ballot for Tom Pouliot from 
the Big Sky Country of Montana.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Do I have a second?
     COMRADE DAVID TUPPER (Post 3596 - Montana):  I am David Tupper, 
Post 3596, Department Commander of Montana, proudly seconds that motion.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion has been made and duly 
seconded.  Is there anything on the question?  Hearing none, we will go 
to the vote.  All those in favor will signify by saying ``aye''; all 
those opposed ``nay''.  The ``ayes'' have it. The motion is carried.  
Tom Pouliot is elected Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief.  The Adjutant 
General will cast one ballot.
     ASSISTANT ADJUTANT GENERAL JOHN SENK:  Comrade Commander-in-Chief, 
it is indeed a pleasure for me to cast one ballot for the election of 
Tom Pouliot as Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief of the Veterans of Foreign 
Wars for the ensuing year.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Nominations are now open for the office 
of Quartermaster General.  The name of Joe L. Ridgley has been placed 
into nomination from the great Department of Missouri.  Are there any 
further nominations for the office of Quartermaster General?  Are there 
any further nominations?
     The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 2.
     COMRADE DONALD WATTS (Post 5553 - Missouri):  Comrade Commander-in-
Chief, I request that we close the nominations for Quartermaster General 
and that the Adjutant General be instructed to cast a unanimous ballot 
for Joe L. Ridgley for the office of Quartermaster General.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE JOHN KRUG (Post 2210 - Missouri):  I second the motion.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion has been made and duly 
seconded that nominations close for Quartermaster General and that the 
Adjutant General be instructed to cast one unanimous ballot for Joe 
Ridgley for election to Quartermaster General.  All those in favor say 
``aye''; all those opposed.  The ``ayes'' have it.  The Adjutant General 
will cast one ballot.
     ASSISTANT ADJUTANT GENERAL JOHN SENK:  Commander-in-Chief, it is 
indeed a pleasure and privilege for me to cast one ballot for the 
unanimous selection of Joe L. Ridgley for the position of Quartermaster 
General for the ensuing year.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Nominations are now open for the office 
of Judge Advocate General.  The name of Leonard R. Herrst, from the 
Department of California, has been placed in nomination.  Are there any 
further nominations?  Are there any further nominations?  Are there any 
further nominations? Hearing none, the Chair will accept a motion.
     The Chair recognizes Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE ROBERT MARR (Post 7283 - California):  Comrade Commander-
in-Chief, I move for the election by acclamation of Leonard Herrst for 
the office of Judge Advocate General.
     COMRADE PAT O'CONNOR (Post 2967 - California):  I second the 
nomination for Leonard Herrst for the office of Judge Advocate General.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  The motion has been made and duly 
seconded to elect Leonard Herrst by acclamation.  On the question, all 
those in favor will signify by saying ``aye''; all those opposed.  The 
``ayes'' have it.  The motion is carried.
     ASSISTANT ADJUTANT GENERAL JOHN SENK: Comrade Commander-in-Chief, 
it gives me great pleasure to cast one unanimous ballot for Leonard 
Herrst for the office of Judge Advocate General.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Nominations are now open for Surgeon 
General.  The name of Robert W. Reif has been nominated from the great 
Department of Minnesota.  Are there any further nominations?  Are there 
any further nominations? Are there any further nominations?
     Hearing none, I recognize Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE ORLIN JACKSON (Post 1720 - Minnesota):  Comrade Commander-
in-Chief, I move that we close the nominations for National Surgeon and 
the Adjutant General be instructed to cast a unanimous ballot for his 
election.
     COMRADE GORDON KIRK (Post 8854 - Minnesota):  It  gives me great 
pleasure to second that motion.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  It has been moved and seconded to cast 
one unanimous ballot for the election of Robert Reif as Surgeon General.  
On the question, all those in favor will signify by saying ``aye''; all 
those opposed.  The ``ayes'' have it.  The motion is carried.  The 
Adjutant General will cast one ballot for the election of Robert Reif.
     ASSISTANT ADJUTANT GENERAL JOHN SENK: Comrade Commander-in-Chief, I 
cast one ballot for the unanimous election of Robert W. Reif, M.D., as 
Surgeon General for the ensuing year.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Nominations are now open for National 
Chaplain. The name of William J. Bleiler, from the great Department of 
New Jersey, has been nominated for this position.  Are there any further 
nominations?  Are there any further nominations?
     Hearing none, I recognize Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE GEORGE LISICKI (Post 2314 - New Jersey):  I move that the 
nominations be closed and the Adjutant General be instructed to cast one 
unanimous ballot for the election of Reverend William J. Bleiler for 
National Chaplain for the ensuing year.
     COMRADE DENNIS WALL (Post 7164 - New Jersey):  I proudly second 
that motion.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  It has been moved and duly seconded that 
we close nominations and cast one unanimous ballot for Reverend William 
J. Bleiler.  Is there anything on the question:  All those in favor will 
signify by saying ``aye''; all those opposed ``nay''.  The ``ayes'' have 
it.  The motion is carried.
     ASSISTANT ADJUTANT GENERAL JOHN SENK: Comrade Commander-in-Chief, 
it is again a privilege to cast one unanimous ballot for the selection 
of Reverend William J. Bleiler as National Chaplain for the ensuing 
year.

                 ANNOUNCEMENT OF COUNCIL MEMBERS-ELECT

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  At this time I would call upon the 
Assistant Adjutant General to read off the names of the National Council 
Members-Elect.
     ASSISTANT ADJUTANT GENERAL JOHN SENK:  Sergeant-at-Arms, will you 
please escort the Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief for the presentation of 
the caps.  The following National Council Members-Elect will receive 
their caps this morning:
     Representing District No. 2, Massachusetts and Connecticut, William 
J. Madera.
     Representing District No. 4, the District of Columbia, Delaware and 
Europe, Bruce A. Withers.
     Representing District No. 6, Virginia and West Virginia, Scottie E. 
King.
     Representing District No. 8, Georgia and Alabama, Wayne Dial.
     Representing District No. 10, Oklahoma and Arkansas, Leslie F. 
Thone.
     Representing District No. 12, South Dakota, North Dakota and 
Wyoming, William F. Cerny, Jr.
     Representing District No. 14, Montana, Washington and Idaho, Earl 
E. Chase.
     Representing District No. 16, Central America, Pacific Areas, 
Alaska and Hawaii, Dannie Cooper.
     Representing District D, Ohio, George W. Marks.
     Representing District E, Department of Minnesota, Gordon W. Kirk.
     Representing District H, the Department of Texas,  F. E. Gene 
Warden.

                    ANNOUNCEMENT OF APPOINTMENTS 
                     BY COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF-ELECT

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  I will call back to the microphone the 
Assistant Adjutant General to announce the list of appointments.
     ASSISTANT ADJUTANT GENERAL JOHN SENK:  Commander-in-Chief-Elect 
Nier has asked that we read the list of appointments:
     Adjutant General - Larry W. Rivers, Post 1736, Louisiana. 
     National Chief of Staff - Bill E. Lark, Post 4282, South Carolina.
     The Inspector General - Charles R. Stephens, Post 3128, Alabama.
     National Sergeant-at-Arms - George F. Sarver, Jr., Past 402, 
Pennsylvania.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Thank you very much.  Before we go into 
the Installation of Officers, which is the next order of business, at 
this time I would like you to all join with me in thanking our VFW 
National Band for a job well done, and I discharge them from the 
Convention with our best wishes.  Thanks.

     (Whereupon, the assembly extended a prolonged standing ovation.)

                           INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS

     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  We will now proceed with the 
Installation of Officers.
     National Sergeant-at-Arms, you will escort the Installing Officer 
to a position on my right.
     SERGEANT-AT-ARMS SARVER:  Comrade Commander-in-Chief, I have the 
honor to present Past Commander-in-Chief Jack Carney, who has been 
officially appointed the Installing Officer.
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  Comrades, as you are aware, Commander-
in-Chief-Elect Jim Nier is hospitalized and will not be with us this 
morning.  Therefore, the Ritual will be altered accordingly.
     INSTALLING OFFICER CARNEY:  Comrade Commander-in-Chief, the term 
for which you and your subordinate officers were elected or appointed 
has now expired.  It is my duty to ascertain the following.  Have the 
officers for the ensuing year been duly elected?
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  They have.
     INSTALLING OFFICER CARNEY:  Have the books of the Adjutant General 
and the Quartermaster General been examined and approved by the National 
Council of Administration?
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  They have.
     INSTALLING OFFICER CARNEY:  Does the Adjutant General have on file 
proof of eligibility for all officers to be installed during this 
installation?
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  He does.
     INSTALLING OFFICER CARNEY:  I would remind any officer not having 
proof of eligibility on file and not being installed at this time, that 
the by-laws prescribe you must within 60 days of election or appointment 
submit to the Adjutant General for his file a copy of your proof of 
eligibility.
     Comrade Commander-in-Chief, are the funds in the hands of the 
Quartermaster General ready to be turned over to  his successor when 
duly installed?
     COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  They are.
     INSTALLING OFFICER CARNEY:  You will now surrender to me the gavel.  
Past Commander-in-Chief Paul Spera, you have now been relieved of your 
duties as Commander-in-Chief of this organization.  It is proper to 
remind you that in assuming the chair of Past Commander-in-Chief, it 
will be your duty and privilege to counsel and otherwise assist your 
successor through the experiences you have gained during your term of 
office.  You will now station yourself at my right.
     National Sergeant-at-Arms, you will now present the officers-elect 
at the altar as the Assistant Adjutant General prepares the list of 
officers to be installed.
     ASSISTANT ADJUTANT GENERAL JOHN SENK:  
                     Commander-in-Chief, James E. Nier.
                     Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief, John E. Moon.
                     Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief, Thomas A. Pouliot.
                     Adjutant General, Larry W. Rivers.
                     Quartermaster General, Joe L. Ridgley.
                     Judge Advocate General, Leonard R. Herrst.
                     Surgeon General, Robert W. Reif.
                     National Chaplain, Reverend William Bleiler.
                     National Chief of Staff, Bill E. Lark.
                     Inspector General, Charles R. Stephens.
                     Council Members:
                       District No.  1        -     Arthur Roy
                       District No.  2        -     William J.Madera
                       District No.  3        -     Armando C. Azzinaro
                       District No.  4        -     Bruce A. Withers
                       District No.  5        -     John L. Dahman
                       District No.  6        -     Scottie E. King
                       District No.  7        -     Roy C. Womble
                       District No.  8        -     Wayne Dial
                       District No.  9        -     George M. Pullie
                       District No. 10        -     Leslie F. Thone
                       District No. 11        -     Bernard J. Boyle
                       District No. 12        -     William F. Cerny,Jr.
                       District No. 13        -     Jack L. Armagost
                       District No. 14        -     Earl E. Chase
                       District No. 15        -     James H. Ferguson
                       District No. 16        -     Dannie Cooper
                       District No. 17        -     Gary L. Clark    
                       District No. 19        -     J. Hollis Smith
                       District A             -     Americo D. DiLoretto
                       District B             -     Russell R. Rieke,
                                                      Sr.
                       District C             -     Ralph U. DeMarco
                       District D             -     George W. Marks
                       District E             -     Gordon W. Kirk
                       District F             -     Wayne A. Buck
                       District G             -     Raymond C. Sisk
                       District H             -     F. E. Warden
                       District I             -     George J. Lisicki
                       District J             -     Eugene R. Manfrey
                       Past Commander-in-Chief-     Paul A. Spera

     SERGEANT-AT-ARMS SARVER:  Comrade Installing Officer, the officers 
are in their respective stations for the installation.         
     INSTALLING OFFICER CARNEY:  Thank you, Sergeant-at- Arms.  National 
Officers-Elect of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, I 
will administer to you the Officers' Obligation.
     You will raise your right hand, touch the flag of our country with 
your left hand and repeat after me.
     (Whereupon, the following Officers' Obligation was given at this 
time:   ``I do hereby solemnly promise that I will faithfully discharge 
to the best of my ability the duties of the office to which I have been 
elected or appointed, according to the Constitution, By-Laws and Ritual 
of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States.  I solemnly 
promise that at the close of the term to which I have been elected or 
appointed, or sooner if so ordered by proper authority, I will surrender 
immediately to only the duly authorized person or persons, all records, 
money, or other properties of this organization in my possession or 
under my control.  All this I freely promise, upon my honor, as a loyal 
citizen of our great Republic.  So help me God.'')
     INSTALLING OFFICER CARNEY:  As you were. 
     Comrade Chaplain, you will deliver the prayer.
     NATIONAL CHAPLAIN KELL:  I want to thank my beautiful wife, Dottie, 
for 50 years of helping me before I pray.
     Almighty God, as we pause at this critical moment, we recognize you 
as our God and our divine protector, and we ask that you give your 
blessings upon these, your comrades, who now become fellow officers of 
the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States.
     We beseech you, O Lord, that you are always present among us, to 
grant wisdom to these so in their deliberations they can continue to 
favor you, to favor our great country and the betterment of this 
organization.
     May your spirit sustain them and may your power preserve them, and 
may your hand protect them in the faithful and fruitful performance of 
their duties.  Amen.
     INSTALLING OFFICER CARNEY:  As you were.
     National Sergeant-at-Arms, you will now escort the officers to 
their respective stations.
     National Officers of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, you now occupy the position of honor to which your comrades have 
elected you.  You learn well the responsibilities entrusted to you so 
you may intelligently discharge the duties you are to undertake.
     The Constitution, By-Laws and Ritual of our organization prescribe 
in detail the duties of your respective offices.  By virtue of the 
confidence placed in you through your election or appointment, we assume 
that you will acquaint yourself thoroughly with your duties.
     I would like at this time to have the video to roll, please.
     (Whereupon, the video was as follows:
     ``PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF CONNELL:  It is August 23rd at 9:30 a.m.  
As the Installing Officer for Jim Nier for  Commander-in-Chief of the 
VFW.  Jim, I will ask you at this time to raise your right hand and 
repeat after me.
     ``I do hereby solemnly promise that I will faithfully discharge to 
the best of my ability, the duties of the office to which I have been 
elected of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, which I 
have been elected in accordance with the Constitution, Ritual and By-
Laws of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States.  I solemnly 
promise that at the close of the term to which I have been elected, or 
sooner if so ordered by proper authority, I will surrender immediately 
to only the duly authorized person or persons, the National Charter, all 
records, monies and other properties of this organization in my 
possession or under my control upon my honor as a loyal citizen of our 
great Republic.  So help me God.''
     ``I declare Jim Nier to be the Commander-in-Chief of the Veterans 
of Foreign Wars of the United States.  Jim.
     ``COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF-ELECT NIER:  Thank you very much, Ted.  I want 
to thank Ted and Glen Gardner, and Bill Lark and Alex Vernon for 
nominating me yesterday, and I want to thank Ted for installing me in 
the hospital this morning.  I wish to thank all the folks that have 
conveyed all their thoughts here at the hospital, and your prayers.
     ``I would be remiss if I did not take just a moment and give a 
special thanks to the wonderful staff at the Louisville VA Medical 
Center.  At approximately 3:30, Thursday morning, I entered this 
hospital and this morning the staff literally saved my life.  To Larry 
Sander and his entire staff, I shall be forever grateful.
     ``To all of the delegates at the Convention, I wish to tell you 
that I love you all, I hope that God is with you in your travels home as 
you leave the Convention.  This is just one more indicator that the 
Veterans of Foreign Wars and its Ladies Auxiliary must always continue 
to fight to ensure that the VA medical system has the money to continue 
to provide the wonderful care that it continues to do as these folks 
have helped me yesterday and today.
     ``May God bless each and every one of you, and may God continue to 
bless the United States of America.  Thank you all very much.'')
     INSTALLING OFFICER CARNEY:  Senior Vice Commander-in- Chief, 
representing the Commander-in-Chief Jim Nier, I will now present you 
with this gavel.  I will ask that all National Officers please stand, 
set forth your right hand and repeat after me:
     ``Comrade Commander-in-Chief Jim Nier, I pledge my sincere 
allegiance.''  Thank you.  As you were.
     Officers and Delegates of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, I now 
declare the National Officers duly installed and this organization in 
working order for the ensuing year.  I will relinquish the podium to the 
Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief.

                  PRESENTATION OF PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF
                  LAPEL PIN AND GOLD LIFE MEMBERSHIP CARD

     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF MOON:  Thank you, Past Commander-in-
Chief Carney.  It is indeed an honor and privilege to call to this 
microphone Immediate Past Commander-in-Chief Paul A. Spera for a 
presentation.  Past Commander-in-Chief Spera, in behalf of Jim Nier and 
myself, the newly-elected Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief Tom Pouliot and 
the entire organization, we would like to present to you the Past 
Commanders-in-Chief lapel pin for an outstanding job, an outstanding 
veteran, an outstanding member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.  On our 
behalf, we wish to give you this small token of appreciation.
     One other token, Past Commander-in-Chief Spera, I present to you 
your Gold Life Membership Card.
     IMMEDIATE PAST COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SPERA:  At this point in the 
Convention, I would ordinarily be making the presentation of the 
Commander-in-Chief pin to Jim Nier.  At this time I have the very high 
honor to introduce to you Commander-in-Chief Nier's family, Cheryl Nier 
Fox, the daughter of Commander-in-Chief, his granddaughter, and Milicent 
Harris, his aunt.
     He has two special friends listed here, Pete and Courtney 
Wimmersburg.  Are they here?  I would like to bring to the microphone, 
so that I may present this pin to the mother of our Commander-in-Chief, 
Mrs. Marian Moody.
     MRS. MOODY:  Thank you all for including us.
     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF MOON:  I will bring to the podium 
for a presentation of the hat a very, very dear friend, Mr. Bill Lark 
from South Carolina, the new Chief of Staff of the Veterans of Foreign 
Wars of the United States.
     Now, I will call to the podium Charles Stephens for the 
presentation of his hat from the great State of Alabama as our new 
Inspector General of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States.
     INSPECTOR GENERAL STEPHENS:  Thank you.  I hope and pray that our 
Commander-in-Chief overcomes this illness.  Thank you.
     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF MOON:  Normally, I am ready to 
irritate or pick on Jim at this time, because I have spent the entire 
year teaching him quite often, and if he were up here right now, I would 
be joking or saying something snide to get him kind of mixed up.  
     I wish he were right here now because I am very mixed up.  He has 
one year to practice for this, and I have had about one minute.  One 
thing I must say that I am deeply honored to be substituting for Jim at 
this time.  Jim would do the same for me.
     He is a delightful person, a sincere person, a true comrade who no 
one in their hearts can measure the deep love and devotion he has for 
this organization.  I just received the comments a few minutes ago as I 
was sworn in that Jim says he will be back shortly.
     If you think he was doing 100 percent before, he is going to be 
doing 200 percent because he is now going to be healed up.  This 
organization is his life.  His life is the organization.  He has an 
outstanding family here to our left. He has an outstanding family in the 
great State of Texas, in the Southern Conference, and he has an 
outstanding family throughout the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
     I am deeply proud and honored, on Jim's behalf, to thank each and 
every one of you for your long, continued and dedicated support of the 
greatest organization in the world, the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the 
United States.
     On Jim's behalf, I would at this time ask that my wife come forward 
for the pin and my hat, and then I am going to call upon the Junior Vice 
Commander-in-Chief for his remarks.  I forgot that.  Bear with me.  My 
wife is actually doing twofold duty.
     She comes over here and she has to go back and do some more work.  
If I may introduce at this time my wife, Susie, our daughter Valerie and 
our granddaughter Samantha, whom I think knows everyone now.  My dear 
mother-in-law Veronica, and we call her ``Ronnie''.
     My other mom, Faye Thomas, and a couple that has been like a 
brother and sister to me, a friend of mine from my Post, Roger and Chris 
Taylor, Junior Vice Commander of Ohio.  Also my nephew, Gary Moon, and a 
guy that I look up to each and every day, my dear brother, Larry Moon, 
who spent a lot of time in Vietnam before I went there.
     Again, my remarks will be very short.  I will do everything I can 
this year to make sure that this year is a great success.  Anything that 
Jim needs or wants, I will be there to help him.  I look to Paul Spera, 
Past Commander-in-Chief, and I thank you very, very much for everything 
that he has done to help me, to assist me and to give me the knowledge 
and the information that I needed to go through this year.
     If there is anything that any of the chair officers can do for you, 
just call on us and we will do our utmost to make sure it happens.  I 
look to the great State of Ohio, my comrades there, the comrades from 
the Big Ten and, like Jim, to the entire membership of the Veterans of 
Foreign Wars.
     I thank you very much.  I hope that you will be with me this year 
so we can continue to make the Veterans of Foreign Wars the strongest 
organization in the world.  Thank you very much.
     Comrade Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief Tom Pouliot, we will ask his 
wife to place the cap on him at his time.
     JUNIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF POULIOT:  This is my wife, Shirley, 
my strong right hand and my conscience about half the time.
      Comrades and guests, this is a wonderful Convention for me, 
especially.  It doesn't get any better than this.  I have just been 
elected Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief.  What I loved about this 
Convention was the participation out there this year, beginning at the 
Council meeting and all during our business sessions.
     I loved the fact that everyone was involved this year, that we had 
a floor fight or two where we had to have a roll call vote.   That means 
that you are alive and that you are active, and you are concerned about 
what happens.  We, as the leaders, the line officers this year, we will 
attempt to direct you so that the VFW and all veterans organizations and 
services to veterans may get stronger and better.
     If we are marching in the wrong direction, we need you to tell us 
that.  I think that you have told us some of that this weekend.  That is 
wonderful.  I am proud of you because that is what you need to do for 
us.  In return, we will dedicate ourselves totally 100 percent to the 
veterans in the VFW.
     This year Jim has made some changes.  Sincerely, honestly and 
prayerfully, he has made these changes believing they will be in the 
best interests of the veterans in the VFW.  I believe that, too.  I will 
do everything I can to help Jim in his programs work this year so that 
this organization may be better and stronger.
     I ask you to help us accomplish that also.  Please go home, please 
take the programs, work at them sincerely and honestly, and make them 
work this year.  Thank you, comrades and friends.  I guess I cannot 
really begin to thank everyone who helped me to be elected, because I 
would name everybody in the Western Conference and a lot of people in 
the other four conferences also that have been friends over the years.  
I would just thank everyone.  God bless you and God bless the VFW.
     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF MOON:  I now call upon the Judge 
Advocate General, Leonard Herrst, for the presentation of the cap.
     JUDGE ADVOCATE GENERAL HERRST:  How about that, even after 50 
years.  Well, I don't know whether usually the Judge Advocate General 
makes any remarks.  I was just told by the Commander-in-Chief at this 
time to stand and that I can do.
     To the National Officers and Distinguished Guests, Comrades, 
Sisters and the other Guests:
     I want to thank you for the high honor of this opportunity to serve 
as your Judge Advocate General, but first I want to thank a few people.  
I want to thank Ray Sisk, the District G representative, for his 
nomination, and especially his guidance and his inspiration.
     Also Bob Marr, my Department Commander in California, for seconding 
the nomination, and also I want to thank Post 1961 of Gardena, 
California, for their support.  Also District 4 of California for their 
support and, of course, the Department of California for their support.
     Particularly, I want to thank the Western Conference for their 
support and their nomination.  Indeed, the other three conferences as 
well for their support and endorsement.  I especially want to thank all 
of you comrades for this high honor.
     I would like to at this time formally, so to speak, introduce my 
wife.  The last time I introduced my wife, I said, ``This is my wife.''  
This time I have to remember to say this is my wife, Diana, Junior Vice 
of the Ladies Auxiliary to Post 1621, Gardena.
     I pledge to support and assist Commander-in-Chief Nier as he 
requests, the Council and the Convention, and that is all that is 
mandated, comrades, by the National By-Laws and Ritual.  Again, I thank 
you all very, very much for the privilege of serving you.  Thank you 
very much.
     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF MOON:  One thing I found through the 
years, when you get on a roll with two attorneys, you let them go side 
by side.  So, Tom and Lenny, you are all set.  Now, let us back up so 
they can have their brotherhood and let me do it properly, and I 
introduce to you Judy Ridgley to place the hat on our newly-elected 
Quartermaster General, Joe Ridgley.
     QUARTERMASTER GENERAL RIDGLEY:  As I said this before, comrades, I 
humbly thank each and every one of you for electing me.  I thank you for 
supporting me and our staff the last year, and for giving me the support 
this year in your election.
     I also would like to thank very much Post 8220 in Belton, Missouri, 
and my Department of Missouri.  Most of all, I want to thank each and 
every one of you, each and every one of your Departments, because I 
really, truly believe that you-all do make the decisions in this 
organization.  We work for you, I work for you, and I will continue to 
work for you.
     John introduced my wife, but I would like to tell you she is not 
only my wife but she is my best friend.  She stands with me in good 
times and bad times and frustrating times, and not so frustrating times.  
I appreciate that, because she puts up with a lot of long hours on my 
part, both in the office and at home, that are necessary to do the 
things that the staff needs to do in Kansas City and Washington, D.C.
     I appreciate her, and as we all do, we appreciate all of our 
families that put up with those times.  It is important that we as 
members in this great organization continue to make some tough decisions 
and decisions that sometimes are not popular decisions.
     I, too, as others have said, do appreciate the debate that we had 
at this Convention.  That tells me what you truly want.  You truly are 
the members.  You do make the decisions and we do work for you.  We have 
to continue to talk about the tough things to meet the challenges of the 
21st century, not only to complete our mission but as we all know it 
takes finances to perform a mission that our charter requires us to 
perform.
     It is critical that we work together and describe those challenges 
and carry out those goals that are chartered to us and provide them in 
the mission they give us to carry out.  I also realize, comrades, that 
every dollar the National Organization spends came through the sweat of 
our members.
     I have been accused of treating our members' money like it was my 
own.  I am here to tell you, comrades, I am going to continue to protect 
our members' money and your money as if it was my own.  I think the 2.1 
million members of our organization deserve that.
     I will continue to work for you.  Our staff will continue to work 
for you.  I thank you in behalf of our staff for the support you give 
them in everything that you do.  Thank you all again and God bless 
everyone.
     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF MOON:  Now, I call forward to the 
podium for the presentation of the hat, Dr. Robert Reif, from the great 
State of Minnesota.
     COMRADE JOSEPH SCHIRMERS (Post 4847 - Minnesota):  At this time it 
is a great pleasure for me to present your hat.  I have served with you 
19 years and we have a real Surgeon General.  You have a great year.  
Thank you very much.
     SURGEON GENERAL REIF:  Thank you, Joe.  Comrades, I am deeply 
honored at this opportunity to serve in this Post as the National 
Surgeon General for this great organization.  I regret that my wife and 
family could not be here.  My wife had surgery recently and wasn't up to 
the travel.
     I want to assure you that I am going to discharge my duties and 
responsibilities of this post and office to the best of my ability as I 
did in 1992 and `93 when I held this position before.  I would hope in 
the coming year that I would be granted the opportunity to draw on my 
professional knowledge and experience to provide any information or 
suggestions to our Commander-in-Chief concerning decisions affecting the 
health status of our members and the veteran community.  Thank you for 
this honor and opportunity.
     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF MOON:  Thank you, Dr. Reif.
     I now call forward to the podium Reverend William J. Bleiler for 
the presentation of the hat of the National Chaplain.  His sister will 
make the presentation.
     NATIONAL CHAPLAIN BLEILER:  I want to congratulate Lyle Kell on his 
year as Chaplain, and he has given me a number of pointers that I hope 
will help me throughout this year.  I am grateful to George Lisicki, to 
my Department of New Jersey, who nominated me yesterday and today.
     He is a Past State Commander, worked very hard in the membership 
over the years, and has always been bringing up things, and he is also 
on our National Council.  He is over here, George Lisicki.  I also thank 
Dennis Wall, our Department Commander, who seconded the motion.
     These gentlemen are men, as we say in that prayer, men of stainless 
integrity.  I thank also the whole Department of New Jersey who 
supported me over the years, the Eastern states who since 1994 were 
pushing me forward and supporting me.
     I also thank the Big Ten, the Southern Conference and the Western 
Conference.  I went to the caucuses on Monday and I felt their 
endorsement and their support.  I thank all of the comrades from those 
conferences.  I also thank the National Officers who allowed my sister 
to put my cap on and my brother-in-law, Jimmy.
     Will you stand up.  They drove down from New Jersey in a van, and 
tomorrow we are going on to Nashville, Tennessee, and return to New 
Jersey by say of the Smokey Mountains.  I was wondering what I would say 
on this occasion, and I think it is appropriate that I share with you 
just a few words from this card.
     I had dinner with my sister, Peggy, and Jim last night, and they 
gave me this card of congratulations.  The words are so appropriate.  It 
says, ``To someone who knows there is more to a dream than wishful 
thinking.''  It has a little countryside scene of sand hills and inside 
it says, ``Dear Bill, you dared to storm to capture the battle.''
     I would just like to end by saying something about the rainbow.  
When we open the Bible on the alter of our meetings, in that first book 
of Genesis there is a story of a rainbow.  When Noah came out of the ark 
and decided the rain was over, there was a rainbow showing in the sky, a 
complete rainbow.
     It symbolized a new beginning, a new relationship with God, who was 
above and beyond.  That rainbow was shining through the sky right down 
to earth.  That was God's new blessing upon this new humanity.  All I 
can think is of my appointment to this high office, and all my National 
Officers, we in a sense are that team that will make this rainbow shine 
all throughout this year, not only across America but coming from Europe 
and going to the Pacific.
     When we go out of this ark, this building as Noah did, we are going 
to be there as that new team to make that rainbow shine.  So I hope to 
be a link along with our team to develop that new relationship, that new 
beginning, and God's blessings coming down from above and beyond to all 
our veterans in our communities.  All I can say is that may God bless 
you and God bless America.
     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF MOON:  It is indeed an honor for me 
at this time to ask Tom Pouliot, Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief, to 
please come forward so I can place the Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief 
pin on his lapel.
     Commander-in-Chief Jim Nier, when I spoke to him yesterday, asked 
that his acceptance speech be given today.  After consulting with a 
bunch of us at the hospital, Glen Gardner, Larry Rivers, Joe Ridgley and 
myself, and with Kimmie, we told Jim that it was only fair that Jim give 
his acceptance speech at his homecoming.
     The words that Jim will bring forth to you, those should come from 
Jim and only Jim.  A man who has worked so hard for so many years to be 
placed in the position of Commander-in-Chief, it would only be right 
that that individual be allowed to give his own remarks.
     I only feel that in my heart as I look to Jim's family here, a few 
months back when I was told I would have some surgery and I wasn't going 
to be able to do a few things, I really got down thinking that this was 
it. I had fear that they would be cutting on a leg and maybe taking it 
off. I will say that I was scared as hell.
     Now, I look over here at Jim's family and knowing that the fever 
has broken and everything, that Jim is going to be okay, I know what he 
has been going through.  Believe me, for Jim to miss this, this is one 
of the highest points in his life, but we are going to make it up 
twofold.
     We are going to work extra hard this year to see to it that James 
Nier has the best year ever in the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the 
United States.
     Microphone No. 1.
     COMRADE JOHN SENK (Post 335 - New Jersey):  Senior Vice Commander-
in-Chief, there being no further business to come before this 
Convention, and the National Officers having been duly installed for the 
ensuing year, I move that the 97th National Convention of the Veterans 
of Foreign Wars of the United States be closed sine die.
     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF MOON:  The motion has been properly 
made.  Is there a second?
     COMRADE ART TUCKER (Department of Delaware):  Senior Vice 
Commander-in-Chief, Art Tucker, Past Department Commander from the 
Department of Delaware.  I second the motion.
     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF MOON:  The motion has been moved and 
properly seconded.  The question is on the floor.  All those in favor 
will signify by saying ``aye''; all those opposed.  The motion carried.
     Comrade Sergeant-at-Arms, you will prepare the room for the 
Retiring of the Colors.

                           CLOSING CEREMONIES

     (Whereupon, the Honor Guard Retired the Colors at this time.)
     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF MOON:  Chaplain Bleiler will give 
the Closing Prayer at this time.
     (Whereupon, National Chaplain Bleiler gave the Closing Prayer from 
the Ritual.)
     SERGEANT-AT-ARMS SARVER:  Comrade Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief, 
the Closing Ceremonies for the 97th National Convention have been 
performed.
     SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF MOON:  Thank you.  I now declare the 
97th Convention of the Veterans of Foreign Wars adjourned sine die.
     (Whereupon, the Convention was duly adjourned at 11:00 o'clock 
a.m., sine die.)


   AMENDMENTS TO NATIONAL BY-LAWS AND MANUAL OF PROCEDURE AND RITUAL 
    CONSIDERED BY COMMITTEE ON NATIONAL BY-LAWS, MANUAL OF PROCEDURE 
                                AND RITUAL

B-1   (Recommended by National By-Laws Review Committee.  Proposed by 
Commander-in-Chief)

          SECTION 201 --FORMATION, CHARTERING AND INSTITUTING.

     Amend Section 201, National By-Laws, by deleting the words, 
``twenty-five (25)'' in the first paragraph and inserting in lieu 
thereof the following:
     ``thirty-five (35)''
     Amend Section 201 further by deleting the words, ``twenty-five 
(25)'' in the first paragraph, subparagraph 1. and inserting in lieu 
thereof the following:
     ``thirty-five (35)''
     Amend Section 201 further by deleting the words, ``ten (10)'' in 
the last sentence of the fourth paragraph and inserting in lieu thereof 
the following:
     ``twenty (20)''  (Disapproved)

B-2  (Recommended by National By-Laws Review Committee.  Proposed by 
Commander-in-Chief)

          SECTION 210 --SURRENDER OR FORFEITURE OF CHARTER.

     Amend Section 210, National By-Laws, by deleting the words, ``ten 
(10)'' in the second sentence of the first paragraph and inserting in 
lieu thereof the following:
     ``twenty-five (25)''
     Amend Section 210 further by deleting the words, ``ten (10)'' in 
two instances in the sixth sentence of the first paragraph and inserting 
in lieu thereof the following:
     ``twenty-five (25)''  (Disapproved)

B-3  (Recommended by National By-Laws Review Committee.  Proposed by 
Commander-in-Chief)

         SECTION 211 --SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF CHARTER.

     Amend Section 211 (f), National By-Laws, by deleting the words, 
``ten (10) members in good standing on its rolls on February 1'' and 
inserting in lieu thereof the following:
     ``twenty-five (25) members in good standing on its rolls''  
(Disapproved)

B-4  (Recommended by National By-Laws Review Committee.  Proposed by 
Commander-in-Chief)

         SECTION 211 --SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF CHARTER.

     Amend Section 211 (a), National By-Laws, by adding the following:
     ``The Commander-in-Chief may suspend the charter of any Post not 
submitting a properly completed Report of Election of Officers for the 
new V F W year by August 1st of the new V F W year for a period of up to 
ninety (90) days.  This suspension will be automatically terminated 
should a properly prepared Report of Election of Officers be received at 
National Headquarters.  At the end of the ninety (90) days, the 
Commander-in-Chief may cancel or revoke the charter of any Post not 
properly submitting a list of officers to National Headquarters.''  
(Approved)

B-5  (Recommended by National By-Laws Review Committee.  Proposed by 
Commander-in-Chief)

                    SECTION 212 --DEFUNCT POSTS

     Amend Section 212, National By-Laws, by deleting the first 
paragraph in its entirety and inserting in lieu thereof the following:
     ``Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 211, the Commander-in-
Chief may, upon the recommendation of the Department Commander, declare 
a Post's charter forfeited and canceled if such Post has less than 
twenty-five (25) members in good standing, has failed or refused to pay 
the Department and National dues on all its members in good standing, as 
prescribed by these By-Laws or has neglected to submit a Post Report of 
Election by August 1st of the current year.''  (Disapproved)

B-6  (Recommended by National By-Laws Review Committee.  Proposed by 
Commander-in-Chief)

                   SECTION 212 --DEFUNCT POSTS.

     Amend Section 212, National By-Laws, by deleting the words, ``ten 
(10)'' in the first paragraph and inserting in lieu thereof the 
following:
     ``twenty-five (25)''  (Disapproved)

B-7  (Recommended by National By-Laws Review Committee.  Proposed by 
Commander-in-Chief)

     SECTION 220 --VACANCIES AND REMOVAL OF ELECTIVE OFFICERS.

     Amend Section 220, National By-Laws, by adding the following to the 
second paragraph:
     ``Should the vacancy occur in the office of Post Quartermaster, the 
Post Commander may appoint a Pro Tempore Quartermaster to carry out the 
duties incident to that office.  The appointment shall in no instance 
span more than sixty days and shall be null and void upon the election 
of a Post Quartermaster.''  (Approved)

B-8  (Recommended by National By-Laws Review Committee.  Proposed by 
Commander-in-Chief)

     SECTION 220 --VACANCIES AND REMOVAL OF ELECTIVE OFFICERS.

     Amend Section 220, National By-Laws, by adding the following to the 
fourth paragraph:
     ``Such action, and reasons therefor, shall be reduced to writing, 
in the form of a Special Order, and delivered personally or by certified 
United States mail at the removed officer's last known address.''  
(Approved)

B-9  (Recommended by National By-Laws Review Committee.  Proposed by 
Commander-in-Chief)

   SECTION 222 --DELEGATES-COUNTY COUNCIL, DISTRICT, DEPARTMENT AND 
                        NATIONAL CONVENTIONS.

     Amend Section 222, National By-Laws, by adding the following:
     ``(g)  Delegates elected under this section shall not be considered 
instructed and may exercise full authority in the duty to be 
performed.''  (Approved)

B-10  (Recommended by National By-Laws Review Committee.  Proposed by 
Commander-in-Chief)

SECTION 515 --ELECTED AND APPOINTED OFFICERS; CHAIRMEN AND COMMITTEES.

     Amend Section 515 (c), National By-Laws, by deleting the words, 
``and non-salaried'' following the word elected and preceding the word 
members in the second sentence and following the word elected and 
preceding the word members in the third sentence.  (Approved)

B-11  (Recommended by National By-Laws Review Committee.  Proposed by 
Commander-in-Chief)

       SECTION 608 --OFFICERS, ELECTED AND APPOINTED.

     Amend Section 608 (c), National By-Laws, by deleting the words, 
``and non-salaried'' following the word elected and preceding the word 
members in the second sentence and following the word elected and 
preceding the word members in the third sentence.  (Approved)

B-12  (Recommended by National By-Laws Review Committee.  Proposed by 
Commander-in-Chief)

         SECTION 610 --OFFICERS, POWERS AND DUTIES.

     Amend Section 610 (d) (16), National By-Laws, by deleting the 
words, ``and non-salaried'' following the word elected and preceding the 
word members in the first sentence and following the word elected and 
preceding the word members in the second sentence.  (Approved)

B-13  (Recommended by National By-Laws Review Committee.  Proposed by 
Commander-in-Chief)

        SECTION 610 -- OFFICERS, POWERS AND DUTIES.

     Amend Section 610 (f) (13), National By-Laws, by deleting the 
words, ``and non-salaried'' following the word elected and preceding the 
word members in the first sentence and following the word elected and 
preceding the word members in the second sentence.  (Approved)

B-14  (Recommended by National By-Laws Review Committee.  Proposed by 
Commander-in-Chief)

                     SECTION 710 --INSPECTION.

     Amend Section 710, National By-Laws, by deleting the word 
``officer'' in the second sentence of the first paragraph and inserting 
in lieu thereof the following:
     ``member''  (Approved)

B-15  (Recommended by National By-Laws Review Committee.  Proposed by 
Commander-in-Chief)

                   SECTION 1102 --ELIGIBILITY.

     Amend Section 1102, National By-Laws, by deleting the last sentence 
of the first paragraph in its entirety and inserting in lieu thereof the 
following:
     ``Members must be not less than sixteen (16) years old.''  
(Approved)

B-16  (Proposed by Departments of Iowa and Nebraska)

             SECTION 102 - APPLICATIONS-AFFILIATION OF NEW MEMBERS.

     Amend Section 102, National By-Laws, by deleting all therein and 
substituting in lieu thereof the following:
     ``Every application for admission to membership shall be in 
writing.  The form of such application shall comply with the rules and 
regulations as may be from time to time prescribed in the Manual of 
Procedure.
     Except as otherwise provided herein with respect to At Large 
Membership, each eligible member shall be a member of a Post.  
Membership in more than one Post at one time is prohibited.  Any person 
who is or becomes a member of more than one Post shall elect to remain 
in the Post of his or her choice and surrender membership in any other 
Post.  In the event no election is made, the Commander-in-Chief or his 
designee shall assign the member to a Post.
     Department Members At Large.  Anyone eligible for membership who is 
unable to join or does not desire membership in a Post may become a 
Department Member-At-Large of the Department upon application to the 
Department Adjutant, proof of eligibility and payment of annual dues of 
twenty dollars ($20.00) to the Department, one-half (1/2) of which 
amount shall be transmitted to the Quartermaster General on monthly 
consolidated reports.''  (Disapproved)

B-17  (Proposed by Department of Kansas)

                     SECTION 109 - RIGHT OF APPEAL.

     Amend Section 109, National By-Laws, by adding the following 
paragraph after the first (1) paragraph:
     ``Aggrieved members shall be advised in writing of their right to 
submit, and the procedure to submit, an appeal, as provided by this 
Section.''  (Disapproved)

B-18  (Proposed by Department of New York)

                      SECTION 111 - LIFE MEMBERS.

     Amend Section 111 (a), National By-Laws, by deleting the second (2) 
paragraph and inserting in lieu thereof the following:
     ``Conterminous with Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States 
1996-1997 fiscal year commencing September 1, 1996 and thereafter, Life 
Membership fees shall be charged in accordance with the fee schedule 
established by the Life Membership Committee and approved by the 
delegates assembled at the National Convention.''  (Disapproved)

B-19  (Proposed by Department of California)

                       SECTION 111 - LIFE MEMBERS.

     Amend Section 111 (a), National By-Laws, by deleting the second (2) 
paragraph in its entirety and inserting in lieu thereof the following:
     ``Life membership fees shall be charged in accordance with the fee 
schedule as established by the Life Membership Committee approved by the 
National Convention provided, however, that the minimum fee shall be:

                  ATTAINED AGE       LIFE MEMBERSHIP FEES
                   Through 30              $200.00
                        31-40               185.00
                        41-50               165.00
                        51-60               145.00
                        61-70               115.00
                        71-80                85.00
                   81 and over               50.00''  
(Disapproved)

B-20  (Proposed by Departments of Massachusetts, Iowa, Connecticut and 
Minnesota)

SECTION 111 - LIFE MEMBERS.

     Amend Section 111 (a), National By-Laws, by deleting the second (2) 
paragraph in its entirety and inserting in lieu thereof the following:
     ``Conterminous with the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, 1996-1997 term and thereafter, Life Membership Fees shall be 
charged in accordance with the fee schedule established by the Life 
Membership Committee and approved by the delegates assembled at the 
National Convention provided, however, that the minimum fee shall be:

                  ATTAINED AGE          LIFE MEMBERSHIP FEES
                   Through 30                 $200.00
                        31-40                  185.00
                        41-50                  165.00
                        51-60                  145.00
                        61-70                  115.00
                        71-80                   85.00
                   81 and over                  50.00''
(Disapproved)

B-21  (Proposed by Department of Kansas)

SECTION 111 - LIFE MEMBERS.

     Amend Section 111 (a), National By-Laws, by deleting all before 
the : in the second (2) paragraph and substituting in lieu thereof the 
following:
     ``Life membership fees shall be charged in accordance with the fee 
schedule after recommendation by the Life Membership Committee and 
approved by the National Convention provided, however, that the minimum 
fee shall be:''  (Disapproved)

B-22  (Proposed by Department of Colorado)

                       SECTION 111 - LIFE MEMBERS.

     Amend Section 111 (a), National By-Laws, by deleting the first (1) 
sentence of paragraph two (2) and inserting in lieu thereof the 
following:
     ``Life membership fees shall be charged in accordance with the fee 
schedule as recommended by the Life Membership Committee and approved in 
accordance with the requirements of Article XIII-Amendments.''
     Amend Section 111 (b), National By-Laws, by deleting all before the 
second comma in the second sentence of the second paragraph and 
inserting in lieu thereof the following:
     ``An amount, as recommended by the Life Membership Committee, and 
approved in accordance with the requirements of Article XIII-
Amendments''  (Disapproved)

B-23  (Proposed by Department of Nebraska)

                       SECTION 111 - LIFE MEMBERS.

     Amend Section 111, National By-Laws, by deleting all therein and 
substituting in lieu thereof the following:
     ``Any person who is a member in good standing of the Veterans of 
Foreign Wars of the United States may become a life member by payment of 
the proper fee to the Post Quartermaster as indicated below.  Any person 
otherwise eligible for membership but not previously a member of the 
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States may become a life member 
upon election to membership in accordance with Section 103, payment of 
any admission fee in accordance with Section 104 and submission of a 
Life membership application and payment of the proper life membership 
application fee to the Post Quartermaster as provided below.  A former 
member otherwise eligible for reinstatement to membership in the 
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States may become a life member 
upon reinstatement to membership in accordance with Section 106, payment 
of such reinstating fee as may be assessed by the Post and submission of 
a life membership fee to the Post Quartermaster as provided below.  A 
life member shall not be subject to further membership dues levies of 
any kind and shall have all the benefits and privileges of Post, 
Department and National membership as long as he shall live.
     Life membership fees shall be charged in accordance with the 
following schedule:

                  ATTAINED AGE        LIFE MEMBERSHIP FEES
                   Through 30               $200.00
                        31-40                185.00
                        41-50                165.00
                        51-60                145.00
                        61-70                115.00
                        71-80                 85.00
                   81 and over                50.00

     Any applicant whose 31st, 41st, 51st, 61st, 71st or 81st birthday 
will occur after the date of application and on or before December 31 of 
the current year shall pay only the fee that would be required on his 
next birthday.
     Upon receipt of the required fee, the Post Quartermaster shall 
immediately forward payment, through the Department Quartermaster, to 
the Quartermaster General together with the life membership application 
of the individual.  The life membership shall become effective 
immediately upon the receipt of the fee by the Quartermaster General.
     The Quartermaster General shall deposit all sums received by him 
for life memberships in a special fund called the ``Life Membership 
Fund,'' and shall issue a suitable life membership card.
     A Life member who shall subsequently be found ineligible for 
membership shall forfeit his life membership, in which case he shall be 
entitled to a proportionate refund of fees paid.  A member who shall be 
discharged from the organization by reason of disciplinary action shall 
forfeit his life membership.  In such event no refund of fees paid will 
be made.
     Death of a life member following the issuing of the checks paying 
his per capita tax for the next calendar year to National Headquarters, 
the respective Department Headquarters, and to his local Post, shall not 
be a cause for a refund of said per capita tax.
     LIFE MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE:  There is hereby constituted a life 
membership committee, to consist of the Commander-in-Chief, the Adjutant 
General and the Quartermaster General.  Such committee shall be known as 
the Board of Trustees of the Life Membership fund.  The Quartermaster 
General shall be treasurer of such Board of Trustees, and shall have 
custody of the life membership fund.
     The Board of Trustees hereinabove referred to shall have broad 
administrative powers to administer the life membership fund, to invest 
it and reinvest it in Class A securities, all to the best interest of 
the life membership of the organization and the Veterans of Foreign Wars 
of the United States, except that each year such Board of Trustees shall 
be obligated, to the extent funds are available in the ``Life Membership 
Fund,'' to make payment of dues in September of the current year for the 
following calendar year to Posts, Departments and National Headquarters 
on all life members recorded as of August 31 of the current calendar 
year.  In addition, to the extent funds are available in the ``Life 
Membership Fund,'' payment of dues shall be made in January of the 
following year for persons who have become life members during the 
period September 1 to December 31.  Such payments shall be:
     Three dollars and fifty cents per capita tax to National 
Headquarters of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, three 
dollars and fifty cents to the Department Headquarters, and three 
dollars and fifty cents to the local Post to which each life member 
belongs.  The Board of Trustees by publication of notice in the General 
Orders no later than May 1 of any year shall have authority, when in its 
sole judgment the investment return warrants it, to increase or decrease 
its obligation for each calendar year.  Said amount shall be paid during 
September of each calendar year for the next calendar year during the 
lifetime of the life member.''  (Approved)

B-24  (Proposed by Department of Texas)

                    SECTION 411 - DISTRICT DUES.

     Amend Section 411, National By-Laws, by deleting in its entirety 
and inserting in lieu thereof the following:
     ``Delegates assembled at a District Convention, providing notice 
has been given to each Post thirty (30) days in advance of pending 
proposal, may assess or increase annual dues per member per Post.''  
(Approved)

B-25  (Proposed by Department of Michigan)

 SECTION 515 - ELECTED AND APPOINTED OFFICERS; CHAIRMEN AND COMMITTEES.

     Amend Section 515 (c), National By-Laws, by deleting from the third 
(3) sentence the following:
     `` ; provided, however, that salaried officers appointed by the 
Commander may only be removed by the Commander with the approval of a 
majority of the elected and non-salaried members of the Department 
Council of Administration''  (Disapproved)

B-26  (Proposed by Department of Nebraska)

             SECTION 608 - OFFICERS, ELECTED AND APPOINTED.

     Amend Section 608, National By-Laws, by deleting all therein and 
substituting in lieu thereof the following:
     ``(a)  The National elective officers of the Veterans of Foreign 
Wars of the United States shall be the Commander-in-Chief, Senior Vice 
Commander-in-Chief, Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief, Quartermaster 
General, Judge Advocate General, Surgeon General, National Chaplain and 
regional National Council of Administration members representing 
regional districts hereinafter set out in these By-Laws.
     (b)  The Commander-in-Chief shall appoint an Adjutant General, 
Chief of Staff, Inspector General, National Historian, National 
Americanism Chairman, National Bugler, Sergeant-at-Arms, two (2) Color 
Sergeants, two (2) Color Guards, Guard and such other special directors 
and subordinate officers and Aides-de-Camp as the circumstances from 
time to time may require.
     (c)  National officers, elected and appointed, shall submit proof 
of eligibility to the Adjutant General.  National officers shall not be 
installed or assume the duties of their office until proof of 
eligibility has been submitted and properly reviewed.  Such proof of 
eligibility shall be open to and reviewed by the Commander-in-Chief, 
Adjutant General and Quartermaster General prior to installation to 
office.  In the event an elected or appointed officer fails to submit 
proof of eligibility within sixty (60) days of election or appointment, 
any right of the officer to hold the office shall be forfeited and the 
office declared vacant.''  (Disapproved)

B-27  (Proposed by Department of Colorado)

             SECTION 608 - OFFICERS, ELECTED AND APPOINTED.

     Amend Section 608 (c), National By-Laws, by deleting in its 
entirety and inserting in lieu thereof the following:
     ``(c)  The Commander-in-Chief shall appoint an Adjutant General, 
Assistant Adjutants General, Chief of Staff, Inspector General, and 
Sergeant-at-Arms.  He may appoint such other, committee chairmen and 
committees as may be necessary to carry out the responsibilities and 
functions of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, provided 
that, with respect to salaried officers, the proposed salary of such 
officers, shall be made subject to the approval of the majority of the 
elected and non-salaried members of the National Council of 
Administration.  The Commander-in-Chief retains authority to remove 
officers, committee chairmen and committees appointed by him at any 
time.''  (Disapproved)

B-28  (Proposed by Department of Colorado)

               SECTION 610 - OFFICERS, POWERS AND DUTIES.

     Amend Section 610 (f)(12), National By-Laws, by deleting in its 
entirety and renumbering (13) as (12) and (14) as (13).  (Disapproved)

B-29  (Proposed by Department of Nebraska)

                SECTION 610 - OFFICERS, POWERS AND DUTIES.

     Amend Section 610, National By-Laws, by deleting in its entirety 
and substituting in lieu thereof the following:
     ``(a)  Commander-in-Chief:  The Commander-in-Chief shall enforce 
the Act of Incorporation, By-Laws, Ritual and Manual of Procedure of the 
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States and the orders of the 
National Convention and National Council of Administration and for this 
purpose he may issue such orders as may be necessary.  He shall preside 
over meetings of the National Convention and the National Council of 
Administration, decide all questions of law and usage, subject to an 
appeal to the National Council of Administration, and/or the National 
Convention.  He shall appoint immediately after entering upon his office 
the appointive officers listed in Section 608, and committees not 
otherwise provided for, and may remove these officers at his pleasure; 
provided, however, that if any such officers are salaried the 
appointment shall be made subject to the approval of the majority of the 
elected and non-salaried ex-officio members of the Council of 
Administration, and such officers may only be removed by a majority vote 
thereof.
     The Commander-in-Chief shall call a meeting of the National Council 
of Administration not less than thirty (30) days nor more than sixty 
(60) days after the adjournment of the National Convention for the 
purpose of adopting the annual budget and the transaction of any 
business which may properly come before the National Council of 
Administration.  He may call such other meetings of the National Council 
of Administration as he deems advisable.
     The Commander-in-Chief shall sign or authorize the Adjutant General 
to sign for him all vouchers for expenditures of funds by the 
Quartermaster General.
     (b)  Vice Commander-in-Chief:  The Vice Commanders-in-Chief shall, 
when called upon, assist the Commander-in-Chief and in his absence or 
disability, they shall discharge the duties of his office according to 
seniority.
     (c)  Adjutant General:  The Adjutant General shall keep correct 
records of the proceedings of the National Convention and Council of 
Administration; he shall conduct its correspondence and issue the 
necessary orders under the direction of the Commander-in-Chief.  He 
shall prepare all books and forms required for use of the Veterans of 
Foreign Wars of the United States, under the direction of the Commander-
in-Chief.  He shall keep proper files of all correspondence and copies 
of all general and special orders issued.  He shall transfer to his 
successors in office without delay all books, papers and property of the 
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States in his possession.  He 
shall give security for the faithful discharge of his duties, to be 
approved by the Commander-in-Chief, and shall receive as compensation 
for his services such sum as the Council of Administration may from time 
to time determine.
     He shall transmit to all Department Commanders not later than sixty 
(60) days after meetings of the National Council of Administration 
abstracts of the business transacted.
     (d)  Quartermaster General:  The Quartermaster General shall have 
charge of the funds and securities of the organization.  All real 
property of the organization shall be under his management.  He shall 
keep a correct account of all moneys due and receivable from all sources 
and shall disburse all moneys properly payable by the Veterans of 
Foreign Wars of the United States.  He shall keep a record of all 
liabilities of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States and 
shall be in charge of the Supply Department and the purchase and sale of 
emblems and supplies under the direction of the National Council of 
Administration.  The Quartermaster General shall be treasurer of all 
committees of the National Council of Administration handling funds.  He 
shall keep his books, vouchers and records according to forms authorized 
by the National Council of Administration.  He shall prepare a quarterly 
report for the National Council of Administration and submit copies 
thereof to the Department Commanders.  He shall prepare for the Adjutant 
General before each National Convention a list showing the Posts in good 
standing and the number of delegates to which each Post is entitled.  He 
shall deliver to his successor in office all moneys, books or property 
of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States in his possession.  
He shall give good and sufficient security in a sum to be approved by 
the National Council of Administration for the faithful discharge of his 
duties and shall receive such compensation for his services as the 
National Council of Administration may from time to time determine.
     Assistant:  He shall, subject to the approval of the Commander-in-
Chief and two-thirds of the Members of the National Council of 
Administration, immediately after entering his office, appoint an 
Assistant who shall be a full-time salaried officer.  The Assistant 
Quartermaster General shall give good and sufficient security in a sum 
to be approved by the National Council of Administration for the 
faithful discharge of his duties and shall receive such compensation for 
his services as the National Council of Administration may from time to 
time determine.  The Assistant Quartermaster General shall discharge all 
duties delegated by the Quartermaster General and during the absence of 
the Quartermaster General the Assistant shall discharge the duties of 
the Quartermaster General to the extent designated by the Quartermaster 
General.  During the disability of the Quartermaster General, as 
determined by two-thirds vote of the National Council of Administration, 
the Assistant Quartermaster General shall discharge all duties of the 
Quartermaster General except that he shall not serve as a member of the 
National Council of Administration.  The Assistant Quartermaster General 
may be removed by a two-thirds vote of the members of the National 
Council of Administration.
     Budget - Annual:  The Quartermaster General shall prepare a 
tentative budget for the financial operations of the ensuing year.  Said 
budget shall set forth all anticipated income and estimated expense.  
Restricted funds shall be budgeted separately in every instance, and the 
budget shall be in balance.  The tentative budget shall be submitted to 
the Commander-in-Chief for consideration within ten days following 
adjournment of the National Convention, and final action must be taken 
on the adoption of the budget at the first stated meeting of the 
National Council of Administration, and, when adopted, the budget shall 
be the expenditure guide for the ensuing year.
     Not later than thirty (30) days after the first meeting of the 
National Council of Administration, he shall forward to all Department 
Commanders a detailed copy of the National budget adopted by the 
National Council of Administration for their information.
     (e)  Other Officers:  The remaining National officers shall have 
powers and duties as provided in the Manual of Procedure, or as may be 
assigned them by the National Council of Administration or the 
Commander-in-Chief.''  (Disapproved)

B-30  (Proposed by Department of Kansas)

                ARTICLE VII - MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS.

     Amend Article VII, National By-Laws, by adding thereto a new 
Section designated Section 717 as follows:
     ``SECTION 717 - RESOLUTIONS.
     All Department resolutions which affect matters outside state 
boundaries must be approved by the originating Department Convention and 
forwarded by the Department Adjutant to the Adjutant General not later 
than July 1 of each year.
     Resolutions that originate within a Department must bear that 
Department Convention's approval prior to submission to the National 
Convention.  A resolution disapproved by the originating Department 
Convention, or not acted upon by that Department Convention will not be 
considered by the National Convention.
     Resolutions may also be originated by Department officers or the 
Department Convention itself and acted upon by the Department 
Convention.
     A National Officer may originate a resolution concerning National 
affairs and submit it directly to the National Convention without 
Department action.
     A National Convention Committee may originate a resolution and 
present it for approval during the National Convention.
     Proposed amendments to the National By-Laws must also have 
Department approval if submitted by a Post, District or County Council, 
and must be received by the Adjutant General by the first working day in 
July in order that they may be publicized as required by Article XIII of 
the National By-Laws.  Such proposed amendments must be definite and 
specific as to the material to be deleted or added, containing the exact 
wording of the proposed change.''  (Disapproved)

B-31  (Proposed by Department of Kansas)

                     ARTICLE XI - LADIES AUXILIARY.

     Amend Article XI, National By-Laws, by deleting the title in its 
entirety and inserting in lieu thereof the following:
     ``ARTICLE XI - VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES (VFW) 
AUXILIARY''
     Amend Section 1101, National By-Laws, by deleting in each instance 
it appears the word ``Ladies'' and inserting in lieu thereof ``VFW''.
     Amend Section 1102, National By-Laws, by deleting in its entirety 
and inserting in lieu thereof the following:
     ``Membership in the Auxiliary to the Veterans of Foreign Wars of 
the United States shall be limited to wives, husbands, widows, widowers, 
mothers, fathers, stepmothers and stepfathers (who have performed the 
duties of parent), grandmothers, grandfathers, daughters, sons, 
granddaughters, grandsons, foster and step daughters and sons (who 
attained that status prior to age sixteen (16) and for whom the duties 
of parent were performed), of persons who were or are eligible for 
membership in the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States.  
Members must be not less than sixteen (16) years old.
     Men and women eligible for membership in the Veterans of Foreign 
Wars of the United States shall be eligible for membership in the VFW 
Auxiliary.''
     Amend Section 1103, National By-Laws, by deleting the word 
``Ladies'' in the first sentence and inserting in lieu thereof ``VFW''.
     Amend Section 1104, National By-Laws, by deleting the word 
``Ladies'' in each instance it appears and inserting in lieu thereof 
``VFW''.  (Disapproved)

B-32  (Proposed by Department of Kansas)

                 SECTION 1201 - FORMATION AND CONTROL.

     Amend Section 1201 (d), National By-Laws, by deleting the section 
in its entirety and inserting in lieu thereof the following:
     ``(d)  Auxiliary.  The Military Order of the Cooties is authorized 
to establish an Auxiliary for adults and establish eligibility for such 
Auxiliary, provided that membership shall be limited to members in good 
standing in the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Auxiliary.  
Such association shall be subject to the control of the Supreme Scratch 
(National Convention), Supreme Commander and Supreme Council of 
Administration of the Military Order of the Cootie.  Grand Pup Tents and 
Pup Tents may authorize the establishment and discontinuance of 
corresponding Auxiliaries in accordance with the By-Laws of the Military 
Order of the Cootie of the United States, provided that an Auxiliary to 
a Pup Tent shall be chartered only after approval by the Post with which 
it is affiliated.''  (Disapproved)

            PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE MANUAL OF PROCEDURE

M-1  (Recommended by National By-Laws Review Committee.  Proposed by 
Commander-in-Chief)

   SECTION 222 --DELEGATES-COUNTY COUNCIL, DISTRICT, DEPARTMENT AND 
                      NATIONAL CONVENTIONS

     Amend Section 222, Manual of Procedure, by deleting the words ``of 
not to exceed three dollars ($3.00)'' in the first sentence of the 
eighth paragraph.  (Approved)

M-2  (Recommended by National By-Laws Review Committee.  Proposed by 
Commander-in-Chief)

                       SECTION 710 --INSPECTION

     Amend Section 710, Manual of Procedure, by deleting the words 
``officer connected with the Department of Inspection'' in the second 
sentence of the first paragraph and inserting in lieu thereof the 
following:
     ``member within his respective jurisdiction''  (Approved)

M-3  (Recommended by National By-Laws Review Committee.  Proposed by 
Commander-in-Chief)

  SECTION 1101 --FORMATION, CONTROL, AND DISBANDMENT OF AUXILIARIES

     Amend Section 1101 (e), Manual of Procedure, by adding the 
following to the second paragraph:
     ``Notice of such contemplated action shall be given to the Post, 
County Council, District and Department Commander thirty (30) days prior 
to the surrender or cancellation of an Auxiliary charter.''  (Approved)

M-4  (Proposed by Departments of Connecticut, Iowa, and Utah)

                     SECTION 101 - ELIGIBILITY.

     Amend Section 101, Manual of Procedure, by adding at the end of the 
section, a new eligibility category as follows:
     ``National Defense Service Medal           27 June 1950
     (30 consecutive days or 60 days            to a date
     not consecutive duty outside               to be determined
     continental limits of the
     United States).''
(Disapproved)

                PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE RITUAL

R-1  (Recommended by National By-Laws Review Committee.  Proposed by 
Commander-in-Chief)

     Amend the Ritual of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States under the heading ``OBLIGATION'' on page 33 by deleting the word 
``government'' in the first line of the second paragraph and inserting 
in lieu thereof the word ``Constitution'' and placing ``a period'' after 
the word ``thereto'' in the second line of the second paragraph and 
deleting the remainder of the paragraph.
     Further amend the ``OBLIGATION'' on page 33 by deleting the word 
``Constitution--'' in the second line of the third paragraph and 
inserting in lieu thereof the words ``Congressional Charter,'' and 
further amend by deleting ``--according to our Constitution--'' in the 
second line of the fourth paragraph.  (Approved)

R-2  (Recommended by National By-Laws Review Committee.  Proposed by 
Commander-in-Chief)

     Amend the Ritual of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States under the heading ``MEMBER'S OBLIGATION'' on page 44 by deleting 
the word ``government'' in the first line of the second paragraph and 
inserting in lieu thereof the word ``Constitution'' and placing ``a 
period'' after the word ``thereto'' in the second line of the second 
paragraph and deleting the remainder of the paragraph.
     Further amend the ``MEMBER'S OBLIGATION'' on page 44 by deleting 
the word ``Constitution--'' in the second line of the third paragraph 
and inserting in lieu thereof the words ``Congressional Charter,'' and 
further amend by deleting ``--according to our Constitution--'' in the 
second line of the fourth paragraph.  (Approved)

R-3  (Recommended by National By-Laws Review Committee.  Proposed by 
Commander-in-Chief)

     Amend the Ritual of the Veterans of Foreign Wars by inserting after 
PLATE No. 1A on page 11 the following:
     Plate No. 1B



(Approved)

R-4  (Recommended by National By-Laws Review Committee.  Proposed by 
Commander-in-Chief)

     Amend the Ritual of the Veterans of Foreign Wars by deleting PLATE 
No. 5 on page 57 and inserting in lieu thereof the following:  
Plate No. 5

(Approved)

       RESOLUTIONS CONSIDERED BY COMMITTEE ON AMERICANISM AND 
                          COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES

No. 101  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

                    SUPPORT VOLUNTEER PROTECTION ACT

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we support state and federal legislation protecting 
volunteers representing non profit organizations and government entities 
from personal civil liability.  (Approved)

No. 102  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

       REQUEST FOR CONGRESSIONAL REVIEW OF THE FEDERAL FLAG CODE

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we call upon our representatives in the Congress of the 
United States to have a complete review of the existing Federal Flag 
Code so that we secure consistent respect for the flag of the United 
States of America.  (Approved)

No. 103  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

    MANDATE ENGLISH AS THE OFFICIAL LANGUAGE OF THE UNITED STATES

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we reaffirm mandates of previous conventions to seek 
legislation mandating English as the official language of the United 
States; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we seek legislation to: 1) limit 
bilingual education to short term transitional programs only; 2) effect 
a speedy return to voting ballots in English only; 3) make more 
opportunities available to immigrants for learning English  and 
maintaining the English languages a condition for naturalization; and 4) 
enact legal protections for the English language, at state and national 
levels through  the designation of English as our official language.  
(Approved)

No. 104  (Submitted by Department of Nebraska)

                     INDEPENDENCE DAY BELL RINGING
(Disapproved)

No. 105  (Submitted by Department of Connecticut)

                     NO AGE LIMIT FOR SONS OF VFW
(Disapproved)

No. 106  (Submitted by Department of New Jersey)

                          FLAG DESECRATION

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that the Veterans of Foreign Wars shall authorize our peers to 
proceed to have flag desecration, in any form, abolished and should 
notify our government and its representatives that it should be made 
unlawful to do so.  (Approved)

No. 107  (Submitted by Department of New Jersey)

              MAKE ENGLISH OFFICIAL LANGUAGE OF THE U.S.A

(Disapproved)

No. 108  (Submitted by Department of Minnesota)

                             SONS OF VETS

(Disapproved)

            CONSIDERED BY COMMITTEE ON FINANCE AND INTERNAL
                             ORGANIZATION

No. 201  (Submitted by Department of Colorado)

            VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES 
             UNIFORM PROOF OF ELIGIBILITY FOR MEMBERSHIP

 (Disapproved)

No. 202  (Submitted by Departments of New Jersey and New Hampshire)

                    PAC-ENDORSEMENT OF CANDIDTATES

(Withdrawn)

No. 203  (Submitted by Department of Pennsylvania)

                          LIFE MEMBERSHIP

(Disapproved)

No. 204  (Submitted by Department of Nevada)

              CHANGE TO NATIONAL CONVENTION SCHEDULE

(Disapproved)

No. 205  (Submitted by Department of Maine)

 HEALTH PROGRAM FOR DEPARTMENT SERVICE OFFICE TIED TO NATIONAL PROGRAM

(Disapproved)

No. 206  (Submitted by Department of Kansas)

      PROVIDE NATIONAL MEMBER-AT-LARGE ROSTERS TO DEPARTMENTS

(Disapproved)

No. 207  (Submitted by Department of Kansas)

           APPLICATION FORM FOR NATIONAL MEMBERS-AT-LARGE

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that the last sentence on the National at-Large Membership 
application appearing over the applicant's signature, be changed to 
read, after the words ``I believe in God'' by adding, to wit:
``I also certify that (1) I am entitled to a campaign ribbon or medal 
authorized by the U.S. Government based on my overseas service or; (2) I 
have served overseas in Korea.  I further give authority to the Veterans 
of Foreign Wars of the United States to verify my entitlement to 
membership''; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that immediately following the line ``Dates 
of Service:  From______To_______'', the following be inserted, to wit:
     ``Name of Campaign Ribbon or Medal_________________.       (Note: 
Ribbon or Medal not required for service in Korea)''.  (Approved)

No. 208  (Submitted by Department of Kansas)

                   NATIONAL MEMBERSHIP-AT-LARGE
(Disapproved)

No. 209  (Submitted by Department of Delaware)

                    TAX EXEMPT STATUS OF POST

(Disapproved)

No. 210  (Submitted by Department of California)

                   LIFE MEMBERSHIP FEE INCREASE

(Disapproved)

No. 211  (Submitted by Department of California)

              CONTINUATION OF THE ALL-AMERICAN PROGRAM

(Disapproved)

No. 212  (Submitted by Department of California)

              CREDIT DECEASED LIFE MEMBERS TO POSTS
             AT THE BEGINNING OF THE MEMBERSHIP YEAR

(Disapproved)

No. 213  (Submitted by Department of Minnesota)

                    NATIONAL CONVENTION RULES

(Disapproved)

No. 214  (Submitted by Department of Minnesota)

                     NATIONAL COMMITTEE RULES

(Disapproved)

No. 215  (Submitted by Department of Minnesota)

                           AMENDMENTS

(Disapproved)

No. 216  (Submitted by Department of New York)

                        LIFE MEMBERSHIP FEES

(Disapproved)

No. 217  (Submitted by Department of Ohio)

                    INITIATE NEW CANCER PROGRAM

(Disapproved)

No. 218  (Submitted by Department of Wisconsin)

               RESCIND LIFE MEMBERSHIP FEES INCREASE

(Disapproved)

           CONSIDERED BY COMMITTEE ON GENERAL RESOLUTIONS

No. 301  (Submitted by Department of New York)

 PREVENTION OF FURTHER MEMORIAL DESECRATION AND DEFAMATION OF CHARACTER
                       OF THE U.S.S. INTREPID

(Disapproved)

No. 302  (Submitted by Department of California)

  SUPPORT LEGISLATION FOR THE RELIEF OF MAJOR NGUYEN QUY AN AND HIS 
                    DAUGHTER NGUYEN NGOC KIM QUY

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we support S. 389, H.R. 1087 and H.R. 1287; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED,  that the Departments urge all Posts and 
Auxiliaries to write letters to their Congressional representatives in 
the House to support H.R. 1087 and H.R. 1287and to their Senators to co-
sponsor S.389; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that all members be urged to write to their 
House Representatives to support H.R. 1087 and H.R. 1287 and to write to 
their U.S. Senators to co-sponsor S. 389; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED,  that the VFW National Legislative Services 
in Washington, D.C. write letters to all 435 members in the House and 
urge their support for H.R. 1087 and H.R. 1287 and to the 100 members in 
the Senate and urge their co-sponsorship of S. 389.  (Approved)

No. 303  (Submitted by Department of Hawaii)

              PRESERVE THE HOGA (YT-146) FOR DISPLAY

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we wholeheartedly support the intentions of Friends of the 
HOGA to move the tug to Hawaii and put her on permanent display.  
(Approved as Amended)

No. 304  (Submitted by Department of Massachusetts)

                 OLD IRONSIDES PENNIES CAMPAIGN

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, that the VFW 
endorse, affirm, support and assist the ``Old Ironsides Pennies 
Campaign'', by playing a leading role in promulgating its message and 
theme, at no cost to the National Organization, through its 
publications, and as a grassroots organization reaching out to its Posts 
nationwide and its affiliates to encourage the participation of local 
schools and other organizations in this 
effort.  (Approved)

No. 305  (Submitted by Department of Washington)

            ENDORSE 100TH/442ND/MIS MONUMENT IN LOS ANGELES

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we support the 100th/442nd/MIS Monument in Los Angeles as a 
permanent remembrance to Japanese Americans and all other Americans who 
answered the call to make the supreme self-sacrifice for their country.  
(Approved)

              CONSIDERED BY COMMITTEE ON NATIONAL SECURITY
                         AND FOREIGN AFFAIRS

No. 401  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

                   SUPPORT PUBLIC AWARENESS PROJECTS

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that the National Organization will:
     (a) ensure routine distribution to the field of pertinent, credible 
and responsible information on a routine basis and, as requested, to 
provide such information about other POW/MIA organizations as may be 
needed by the Departments; 
     (b) encourage participation in the program by veterans groups of 
other friendly nations such as our NATO and Far Eastern allies;
     (c) encourage exchange of information among State POW/MIA Chairmen, 
to include publishing up-to-date lists of POW/MIA Chairmen; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that each Department exercise maximum 
initiative to maintain the vitality and thrust of the POW/MIA program at 
Department levels by encouraging such actions as:
     (a) display of the black POW/MIA flag, subordinate to the U.S. 
Flag, at any function at which it is proper to fly the U.S. Flag;
     (c) encourage support of information exchange at Post levels;
     (d) appoint an interested member at the Post level to act as the 
POW/MIA project officer; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the National Organization of the VFW 
supports the annually announced POW/MIA Recognition Day.  (Approved as 
Amended)

No. 402  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

     SEEK OPPORTUNITIES TO RESOLVE THE KOREAN WAR POW/MIA ISSUE

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that the VFW is encouraged by the recent U.S.-North Korean Joint 
Operation to resolve the status of Americans still unaccounted for in 
Korea; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that with renewed vigor, the VFW urge the 
U.S. and Republic of Korea governments to increase their contact with 
the North Korean and Chinese governments, to pursue and expand the 
current joint effort to include the live POW issue and thus seek new 
opportunities to resolve this humanitarian issue as soon as possible; 
and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the VFW, in keeping with United States 
laws and in consultation with the Korean and U.S. governments, continue 
its active efforts to resolve the issue of Korean War POW/MIAs.  
(Approved as Amended)

No. 404  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

                      THE LESSONS OF THE COLD WAR

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that the lessons of the Cold and Gulf Wars taught us that our 
peace, our freedom and our security can best be achieved by remaining 
united in common purpose with our many allies and friends whereby we 
share both the danger and security burden and by maintaining a national 
defense which in combination with our allies and friends, is equal to 
those continuing threats; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that in contrast to the Korean and 
Vietnamese Wars, the lessons of the Gulf War are apparent: to ensure 
victory in future wars, the United States, led by resolute leadership 
and backed by unwavering public support, should quickly and decisively 
engage the full range of its military power until the threat to our 
security is eliminated.  (Approved)

No. 405  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

     LIMIT FOREIGN OWNERSHIP OF U.S. BUSINESSES AND PROPERTIES

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we urge the Congress to enact legislation to limit foreign 
ownership of United States corporations, companies, businesses and 
property and industrial technologies and/or processes which could become 
vital or sensitive to the national defense of the U.S. and which will 
protect the economy of the United States.  (Approved)

No. 406  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

                STOP ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION AT THE BORDER

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we petition the President and the Congress to expand and 
strengthen the Customs and Immigration services and the U.S. Coast 
Guard, and enact such emergency measures as necessary to prevent 
smuggling of illegal aliens and stop, detain and deport potential 
terrorists or those with ties to terrorist groups; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that, as appropriate, military resources be 
employed to assist in stopping the flow of illegal aliens into the 
country; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the President and the Congress should 
carefully consider new legislation which would incorporate the results 
and recommendations of the recent bipartisan review of the 1986 
Immigration act.  (Approved)

No. 407  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

                    IT IS TIME TO PUSH CASTRO OUT

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we urge the U.S. Government to continue its present policy 
of no trade with Communist Cuba and no diplomatic recognition of that 
communist state and to increase the economic and political pressure on 
Castro; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we urge the U.S. Government to use all 
measures, short of violence and/or invasion, to increase the pressure on 
Castro in conjunction with his isolation, to hasten the time until 
Castro's dictatorship is overthrown and Cuba can regain its freedom.  
(Approved as Amended)

No. 408  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

                        PUNISH TERRORISTS NOW

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we continue to urge that the U.S. should take decisive 
action against all terrorists and terrorist states and bring to justice 
those responsible for the destruction of PanAm Flight 103 and the 
barracks in Saudi Arabia and to serve as a warning that all terrorists 
-- no matter what country gives them refuge -- will be hunted down and 
brought to justice; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we continue to urge decisive action in 
the war on terrorism by: 
     (a) remaining on the offensive against terrorists rather than 
passively remaining on the defense; 
     (b) instituting and pressing our allies to support a quarantine on 
those ``outlaw countries'' guilty of inciting, harboring or aiding and 
abetting terrorists; 
     (c) holding all countries accountable for the security of American 
citizens traveling within their borders; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Congress should authorize and the 
President should declare a quarantine against the outlaw Qadhaffi regime 
of Libya and other terrorist states found to support and harbor 
terrorists.  (Approved as Amended)

No. 409  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

          STRATEGIC DEFENSE SHOULD BE A STRATEGIC PRIORITY

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we support both a deployable theater missile defense and a 
strategic missile defense before the end of this century as a priority 
defense requirement.  (Approved)

No. 410  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

                      HONORING THOSE WHO SERVE

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that the VFW calls on all elected and appointed officials to 
publicly recognize the major contributions and sacrifices made by those 
in military service; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that our elected and appointed officials 
acknowledge the professionalism of our servicemen and women by ending 
the erosion of entitlements and expanding the benefits of service and by 
so doing, show that this nation cares for those who have served and 
sacrificed.  (Approved)

No. 411  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

                  OPPOSE LIFTING THE DEFENSE DEPARTMENT BAN
                     ON HOMOSEXUALS IN THE ARMED FORCES

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we unequivocally oppose the efforts of the President and 
homosexual organizations to force the military services to accept and/or 
retain homosexuals and urge that this matter be taken before the Supreme 
Court to seek final judicial reaffirmation of the homosexual exclusion 
policy; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the aforementioned Code should be 
rewritten in an effort to dismiss any possible question of the denial of 
civil rights based on moral, religious or ethical behavior, as it is not 
the intent to inflict that upon said persons, rather a just concern for 
the good order, discipline, stability and readiness of our Armed Forces 
and its operations.  (Approved)

No. 412  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

                 MAINTAIN AN EFFECTIVE U.S. COAST GUARD

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we urge the Congress and the Administration to provide the 
funding necessary for the Coast Guard to carry out its numerous duties, 
including but not limited to, drug interdiction and enforcement, 
military readiness, pollution control, maritime safety, search and 
rescue missions as well as their many other duties and missions.  
(Approved)

No. 413  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

                         STANDING FIRM FOR FREEDOM

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we stand firm for freedom, and in furtherance of the ideals 
of freedom and democracy, we support a foreign policy that nourishes the 
newly won freedoms in Europe and elsewhere, and we maintain our military 
strength against both the possibility of the reversal of Europe's 
freedom and the threats to these other important regions of the world.  
(Approved)

No. 414  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

                NATIONAL STRATEGY OF PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we continue to support a national strategy of peace through 
strength, the general principles of which should be:
     (a) maintaining a strong economy at home and protecting our 
overseas resources of energy and vital raw materials;
     (b) maintaining an American military presence in Europe and Asia to 
stabilize the military balance in these regions and help our friends and 
allies to defend themselves from aggression;
     (c) maintaining such strategic, nuclear and conventional military 
forces (including Active, Reserve and National Guard components) trained 
and equipped with such high technology weapons and equipment and with 
sufficient bases and infrastructure which in the judgment of our 
military leaders are more than equal to the current threats and adequate 
to meet our current defense requirements;
     (d) helping formerly communist controlled countries in their 
process of converting to freely elected democratic governments;
     (e) maintaining effective security and intelligence capabilities to 
prevent strategic surprise from any quarter; and
     (f) employing the leadership necessary to inspire, focus and unite 
the national will and international unity to further our goal of peace 
and freedom.  (Approved as Amended)

No. 415  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

              HALT THE EROSION OF INTELLIGENCE SERVICES

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we reject deep reductions in our national intelligence 
agencies, instead supporting appropriate expansion and funding to ensure 
that we will have adequate warning of future political, military, 
economic or technological changes that would increase the risks to our 
national security and vital national interests abroad and that Congress 
appropriate necessary funds to strengthen the intelligence services.  
(Approved as Amended)

No. 416  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

                   RETAIN U.S. MILITARY FORCES IN EUROPE

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that while we continue to support military withdrawals and 
reductions as agreed to by the NATO Alliance, the changing circumstances 
in Eastern Europe and the Commonwealth of Independent States require the 
residual presence of such combat ready ground, air and naval forces as 
the NATO military commander recommends and NATO's political authority 
has approved; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that such U.S. forces remain based in 
Europe and that the United States retain such land, sea and air bases as 
necessary to support military operations in Europe and elsewhere; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the 
U.S. reaffirms our support for the continued existence of the North 
Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and its military structure and 
strategy in Europe for the foreseeable future; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we, the Veterans of Foreign Wars of 
the United States, believe these military forces will help stabilize the 
European situation by showing the concern of the United States for 
Eastern Europe and expressing our determined leadership for Western 
Europe.  (Approved)

No. 417  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

            SUPPORT THE WITHDRAWAL FROM THE FORMER YUGOSLAVIA

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that to prevent further endangerment to our troops, we support 
the view that unless unforeseen circumstances arise, the U.S. forces 
assigned to IFOR should be withdrawn from the former Yugoslavia by the 
end of the one year time limit.  (Approved as Amended)

No. 418  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

     ASSIST VIETNAM'S RECOVERY OF MIAS AS A SIGN OF OUR GOOD FAITH

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that at each level of the VFW -- National, Department, District, 
County Council, Post -- strenuous efforts be made to collect any 
information which might be of value in determining the fate of Vietnam's 
300,000 MIAs and of assistance in the recovery of their remains; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we urge all levels of the VFW to 
solicit all Vietnam veteran members (and non-members) for any 
information or material that could be used to determine the fate of 
Vietnamese MIAs and their graves.  Such information and material include 
battlefield souvenirs especially if they contain names or other 
identifying information; personal effects such as photos, letters, 
identification documents, taken from casualties; sketch maps, photos, 
overlays (annotated with dates and locations if possible)
which would be of help in identifying Vietnamese grave sites; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that VFW National Headquarters publicize 
this effort and provide Departments with materials which might be used 
in further publicizing our efforts and that the VFW Washington Office 
act as the collecting point and repository of all such information 
obtained from our members and the public at large; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that on subsequent trips to the region by 
VFW National Officers, such information be turned over to Vietnamese 
authorities as an expression of our desire to assist them in recovering 
their MIAs and to encourage their greater effort in helping us reach the 
fullest possible accounting of our MIAs; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that whereas our national officers 
traveling to Vietnam are only permitted to hold meetings with communist 
veterans and our former allies of the Republic of Vietnam are not 
considered veterans; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that during any future trips to the 
Socialist Republic of Vietnam our National Officers request to hold 
meetings with the service men and women who fought alongside U. S. 
Forces during the Vietnam War. (Approved as Amended)

No. 419  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

             OPPOSE U. S. FORCES UNDER FOREIGN COMMAND

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we oppose any plan or directive placing U. S. military 
forces under the command of foreign military officers including those 
who are operating exclusively under orders from the United Nations; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Congress be urged to examine 
Presidential Decision Directive 25 to determine if any Constitutional 
authority has been misused, and if so, to find an appropriate remedy.  
(Approved)

No. 420  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

            SUPPORT FOR THE REPUBLIC OF CHINA ON TAIWAN

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that while recognizing the settlement of the legitimacy question 
remains an issue between the two countries we support and urge the 
admission of the Republic of China on Taiwan to the United Nations and 
other international bodies so that those agencies can be useful in 
fostering a spirit of cooperation and assisting the resolution of the 
legitimacy question; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we urge the President and the Congress 
of the United States to adhere strictly to the concepts of the Taiwan 
Relations Act by approving the sale to the Republic of China on Taiwan 
such state of the art military equipment, weapons and technology to 
include the previously approved sale of F-16 aircraft to the Republic of 
China on Taiwan as may be necessary to maintain adequate defense 
capabilities to provide for military balance and stability in the area; 
and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we urge the United States Government 
to employ the full range of its economic, diplomatic and military 
influence if it is necessary to contain the overtly aggressive posture 
of the Peoples Republic of China and to use this influence to further 
the peaceful settlement of remaining disputes. (Approved as Amended)

No. 421  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

                        OPPOSE WOMEN IN COMBAT

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we go on record as opposing assignment of women within the 
Armed Forces to jobs that call for them to aggressively seek out, close 
with and kill or capture enemy forces; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we urge the United States Congress to 
exercise its responsibility and examine the personnel assignment 
policies of the Defense Department with the view of passage of 
legislation restricting the assignment of women from direct combat 
positions.  (Approved)

No. 422  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

                       RETAIN THE SELECTIVE SERVICE

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that the VFW goes on record as supporting the ongoing existence 
of the Selective Service System in its stand-by status and urges the 
United States Congress to provide the funds necessary to retain the 
Selective Service System.  (Approved)

No. 423  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

           A REINVIGORATED MERCHANT MARINE IS ESSENTIAL TO A
                            STRONG DEFENSE

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we believe a Merchant Marine fleet and a viable ship 
building industrial base are necessary to our national security and our 
global economic competitiveness; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we support legislative initiatives to 
preserve a modernized U.S. flag merchant fleet and an economically 
viable ship building industrial base capable of expanding to support 
future military requirements.  (Approved)

No. 424  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief

                  AMERICANS WHO ARE PRISONERS OF WAR
                        OR MISSING IN ACTION

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we urge the President of the United States of America and 
every member of the U.S. Congress to speak out on every occasion to 
expedite the return of those U.S. Servicemen who are still Prisoners of 
War or Missing in Action; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the VFW continues to exert the maximum 
effort on all governments and agencies involved to account for our MIA's 
from World War II, Korea, Southeast Asia and the Cold War.  (Approved as 
Amended)

No. 425  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

                     TIME TO MONITOR THE PANAMA CANAL

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign of the United States, 
that we urge the President and the Congress to closely monitor 
conditions in the Republic of Panama, to be prepared to take whatever 
steps are necessary to protect the Canal and to ensure continued freedom 
of passage, and to carefully reexamine the conditions of Panama and the 
region before the scheduled turnover with a view to balancing the views, 
concerns and interests of Panama, its neighbors and the United States.  
(Approved)

No. 426  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief, Senior Vice Commander-in-
Chief and Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief)

       ARMED FORCES EXPEDITIONARY MEDAL FOR SERVICE IN BOSNIA

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that it calls for awarding the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal 
for service in the following Balkans operations (retroactive to June 1, 
1992): Provide Promise (air drops over Bosnia and medical teams in 
Croatia), Deny Flight (air missions flown from Italy and carriers in the 
Adriatic Sea), Able Sentry (Macedonia), Sharp Guard/Maritime Monitor 
(enforcement of embargo) and Joint Endeavor (Bosnia).  (Approved as 
Amended)

No. 427  (Submitted by Department of Oregon)

               U. S. MILITARY PLACED UNDER U. N. COMMAND
                    AND THE QUESTION OF LEGALITY OF
                PRESIDENTIAL DECISION DIRECTIVE (PPD 25)

(Disapproved)

No. 428  (Submitted by Department of Pennsylvania)

         ARMED FORCES EXPEDITIONARY MEDAL FOR KOREAN SERVICE

(Disapproved)

No. 429  (Submitted by Department of Pennsylvania)

     ENACT LEGISLATION TO PREVENT MEMBERS OF THE UNITED STATES
                    ARMED FORCES FROM SERVING 
                  UNDER THE COMMAND OF A FOREIGN
          OFFICER AND WEARING THE UNITED NATIONS INSIGNIA

(Disapproved)

No. 430  (Submitted by Department of California

           SUPPORT LEGISLATION FOR A SPECIAL SERVICE MEDAL
                       FOR ``ATOMIC'' VETERANS

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we go on record in support of legislation which would award 
a special service medal for ``Atomic'' veterans.  (Approved)

No. 431  (Submitted by Department of Virginia)

      AMERICANS WHO ARE PRISONERS OF WAR OR MISSING IN ACTION

(Disapproved)

No. 432  (Submitted by Department of Arizona)

          ALLEGIANCE TO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ONLY

(Disapproved)

No. 433  (Submitted by Department of Washington)

                 RECOGNITION FOR ALL EX-SERVICEMEN 
             FOR THEIR PARTICIPATION IN NUCLEAR TESTS 
             CONDUCTED BY THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

(Disapproved)

No. 434  (Submitted by Department of Pacific Areas)

                    SUPPORT OF THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we urge the Government of the United States to increase its 
military aid and assistance to the Republic of Korea by providing modern 
state of the art weapons and technology to safeguard her freedom, and 
promote the security in the Pacific and Asian regions; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the United States in concert with its 
allies bring pressure to bear on North Korea to comply with the nuclear 
safeguard accord of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), to be 
a responsible country in the community of nations and to come to the 
table for peaceful dialogue directly between the South and North.  
(Approved)

No. 435  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

     VFW SUPPORTS KUWAIT'S DEMAND FOR AN ACCOUNTING OF ITS MIAS

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign of the United States, 
that we strongly urge the United Nations, the United States Government 
and other governments to take such action as necessary either 
unilaterally, through our allies, or the United Nations, that will force 
Iraq to account for those Kuwaiti citizens still missing.  (Approved)

No. 436  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

 APPROPRIATE ARMY AWARD FOR THOSE WHO SERVED IN THE REGION OF TRIESTE, 
                ITALY, 8 MAY 1945 - 26 OCTOBER 1954

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign of the United States, 
that we urge the Secretary of the Army to issue an appropriate Army 
award to those soldiers who served in the region of Trieste, Italy, 
during the period 8 May 1945 to 26 October 1954, inclusive.
(Approved as Amended)

       CONSIDERED BY COMMITTEE ON VETERANS SERVICE RESOLUTIONS

No. 601  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

            REFORM OF ELIGIBILITY FOR ACCESS TO VA HEALTH CARE

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that the Congress enact legislation bringing order to the 
present chaos affecting eligibility of VA health care by providing all 
veterans with mandated access to the full continuum of VA health care; 
and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Congress and the Administration 
take appropriate action to ensure that third-party collections by VA 
remain with that agency and not be offset from its annual appropriation 
and that Medicare reimbursement to VA be authorized for care provided to 
veterans again without any offset from its appropriated funds; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that specific appropriations support be 
established for any medical programs directed by the Congress to be 
provided to veterans both now and in the future.  (Approved as Amended)

No. 602  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief) 

 ADEQUATELY FUND THE VETERANS HEALTH CARE SYSTEM CONSTRUCTION PROGRAM

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we urge the Congress in its annual appropriations, to fund 
the Department of Veterans Affairs construction to allow it to carry out 
a program of modernization or replacement of aging facilities, which 
includes a sound system for setting construction priorities, which in 
combination will ensure the continued provision of quality health care 
to our nation's veterans.  (Approved)

No. 603  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief) 

               THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS BUDGET

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we urge the Congress of the United States to pass a budget 
and appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs which will 
fully fund and maintain the integrity of the benefits and entitlements 
programs and enhance Department of Veterans Affairs health care system.  
(Approved as Amended)

No. 604  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief) 

             COST-OF-LIVING INCREASE FOR VA BENEFICIARIES
                        AND MILITARY RETIREES

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we urge Congress to provide timely annual increases in an 
amount at least commensurate with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for all 
Department of Veterans Affairs' beneficiaries and military retirees.  
(Approved)

No. 605  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief) 

                 CONCURRENT RECEIPT OF RETIREMENT PAY AND 
                     VETERANS DISABILITY COMPENSATION

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we strongly advocate legislation to be enacted to permit 
the concurrent receipt of longevity military retirement pay without 
reduction of the Department of Veterans Affairs disability compensation.  
(Approved)


No. 606  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief) 

                 AMENDED TAX RETURNS FOR MILITARY RETIREES

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that Congress amend current law whereby a military retiree will 
be allowed to file amended tax returns beyond the current three-year 
limitation.  (Approved as Amended)

No. 607  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief) 

                MAINTAIN THE QUALITY OF PASTORAL CARE BEING 
                            PROVIDED VETERANS
                  AND THEIR FAMILIES AT VA MEDICAL CENTERS

(Disapproved)

No. 608  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief) 

      FUNDING FOR  VA MEDICAL CENTERS AT TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE
                    AND BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we go on record as urging the Congress and the 
Administration to provide the funding necessary for the construction of 
the already approved VA Medical Center adjacent to the David Grant US 
Air Force Medical Center at Travis Air Force Base and a VA Medical 
Center in Brevard County, Florida; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that copies of this resolution be 
transmitted to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs and the Secretary of 
Defense.  (Approved as Amended)

No. 609  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief) 

       FEDERAL EMPLOYEES HEALTH BENEFIT PROGRAM (FEHBP) FOR
                         MILITARY RETIREES

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we urge the Congress to enact legislation requiring the 
Department of Defense to offer military retirees the full range of FEHBP 
under the same terms as do all other federal departments, agencies, and 
the post office.  (Approved as Amended)

No. 610  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief) 

               VA SHOULD RECEIVE A REASONABLE SHARE OF THE
        MCKINNEY ACT FUNDS SET ASIDE FOR RESOLVING HOMELESSNESS

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we ask Congress to ensure that HUD provides VA a 
proportionate share of the McKinney Homeless Assistant Act funding to 
help eliminate homelessness among veterans and their families.  
(Approved as Amended) 

No. 611  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief) 

     TAX FAIRNESS FOR TROOPS DEPLOYED TO POTENTIAL CRISIS AREAS

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we urge the Congress to pass legislation that would allow 
all military personnel entitled to receive imminent danger pay have 
their gross income earned exempted from federal taxation and to 
eliminate estate taxes or current back taxes owed should a member be 
killed or die of wounds received.  (Approved as Amended) 

No. 612  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief) 

                      DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS
             VETERANS BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION RESTRUCTURING

(Disapproved) 

No. 613  (Submitted by Colorado) 

                DESERT STORM VETERANS AFFAIRS COMMITTEE

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that the VFW will not support any Veterans Benefits 
Administration restructuring proposals until completely satisfied that 
in every instance of program consolidation, there is no lessening in 
timely and quality service for all veterans and other claimants, to 
include more points of access to services.  (Approved as Amended) 

No. 614  (Submitted by Department of Colorado)

       TO SUPPORT LEGISLATION PROVIDING BENEFITS AND SERVICES
          TO VIETNAM VETERANS' CHILDREN WITH SPINA BIFIDA

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we urge congress to immediately enact legislation providing 
benefits and medical services to Vietnam veterans' children who suffer 
with spina bifida and which are comparable to those provided to service-
connected veterans including health care, compensation, rehabilitation, 
education, employment, adaptive housing, adaptive automobile, and 
insurance coverage; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that such legislation mandate the provision 
of service coordination assistance to ensure that Vietnam veterans' 
children with spina bifida and their families receive outreach services 
and are able to access VA benefits and services, and specialized human 
service programs for persons with developmental and other severe 
disabilities offered by federal, state, and local government agencies as 
well as other human service organizations.  (Approved as Amended) 

No. 615  (Submitted by Department of Montana) 

                VETERANS' PREFERENCE IN PUBLIC EMPLOYMENT

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we strongly support veterans' preference in federal, state, 
and local employment, as provided by a grateful nation, and oppose any 
and all efforts to reduce this preference; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we continue to speak out forcefully 
and publicly on the issue of veterans' preference.  (Approved) 

No. 616  (Submitted by Department of Hawaii)

               BENEFITS AND OTHER PRIVILEGES TO FILIPINO
                        WORLD WAR II VETERANS

(Disapproved)

No. 617  (Submitted by Department of Illinois)

                   SUPPORT PASSAGE OF H.R. 3321

((Disapproved) 

No. 618  (Submitted by Department of Illinois)

   U. S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS TO HAVE SEPARATE BUDGET

((Disapproved) 

No. 619  (Submitted by Department of Illinois)

                          EMPLOYMENT TEST

(Disapproved) 

No. 620  (Submitted by Department of Massachusetts)

                       STATE VETERANS' HOMES

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, to seek support for the State Veterans' Homes to receive not 
less than 33 1/3% of the national; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the 
United States urge the National Association of State Veterans Homes and 
the Secretary of the Department of Veterans' Affairs to support mutual 
planning efforts and the establishment of sharing agreements between the 
DVA medical facilities and the State Veterans Homes. (Approved as 
Amended) 

No. 621  (Submitted by Department of Pennsylvania)

         AMEND NATIONAL SERVICE LIFE INSURANCE ACT OF 1940

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we support any proposed legislation to amend current law 
and allow equitable relief to assure payment of the remainder of the 
face value of a veteran's National Service Life Insurance policy to 
those contingent beneficiaries affected by the restriction of optional 3 
mode of settlement between the period of enactment of the National 
Service Life Insurance Act of 1940 and September 30, 1944, the date that 
resolved this inequity by adding the optional 4 mode of settlement.  
(Approved as Amended) 

No. 622  (Submitted by Department of Georgia)

       ESTABLISH A NATIONAL CEMETERY IN THE GREATER ATLANTA AREA

(Disapproved) 

No. 623  (Submitted by Department of Georgia

              COLLOCATION OF ATLANTA VA REGIONAL OFFICE
                   WITH ATLANTA VA MEDICAL CENTER

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we urge the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to build a 
new regional office in Atlanta under the enhanced use program next to 
the VA Medical Center in Decatur and the U.S. General Services 
Administration be told to identify other federal agencies that do not 
deal directly with the public to fill the VA space in the new Atlanta 
Federal Center.  (Approved) 

No. 624  (Submitted by Department of Florida)

      CONSTITUTIONAL POWER TO FUND VETERANS EARNED ENTITLEMENTS

(Disapproved) 

No. 625  (Submitted by Department of California)

SUPPORT S. 72, RELATIVE TO VETERANS' BENEFITS FOR FILIPINO VETERANS AND 
      SCOUTS WHO SERVED WITH THE U.S. ARMED FORCES DURING WWII

(Disapproved) 

No. 626  (Submitted by Department of California)

SUPPORT S. 55 AND H.R. 1136, `THE FILIPINO VETERANS EQUITY ACT OF 1995''

(Disapproved) 

No. 627  (Submitted by Department of California)

          SUPPORT LEGISLATION FOR MEDICARE REIMBURSEMENT
                 TO MILITARY TREATMENT FACILITIES

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we go on record in support of legislation for medicare 
reimbursement to military treatment facilities.  (Approved as Amended) 

No. 628  (Submitted by Department of California)

               HEALTH CARE FOR PERSIAN GULF WAR VETERANS
                  EXPOSED TO DEPLETED URANIUM WEAPONS

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we request the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs 
make whole-body count testing for depleted uranium a standard part of 
the Persian Gulf War Veterans' medical examinations, and offer testing 
to veterans who already took the medical exam but were not tested for 
depleted uranium; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we request the Secretary of Defense to 
order a thorough review of the use of DU weapons by the U.S. Military, 
to include an independently reviewed study of the health and 
environmental consequences of DU use.  (Approved as Amended) 

No. 629  (Submitted by Department of California)

    ADDITION TO THE LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA NATIONAL CEMETERY

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we request legislation to authorize the Secretary of 
Veterans' Affairs to utilize a portion of this land to extend the 
present national cemetery boundaries at West Los Angeles, California, to 
provide a burial for those eligible veterans residing in this area.  
(Approved) 

No. 630  (Submitted by Department of California

                     SAN FRANCISCO NATIONAL CEMETERY, 
                        PRESIDIO OF SAN FRANCISCO

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we reaffirm our commitment of VFW National Resolution 681 
(1990), as listed above and seek legislative action to secure a minimum 
of eleven acres of property that adjoins the San Francisco National 
Cemetery located at the Presidio of San Francisco; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we petition Congress to enact 
legislation requiring that the government agency (Department of Defense 
and/or Department of the Interior) provide this eleven acres of property 
to the Department of Veterans' Affairs National Cemetery systems to be 
used for burial of our nations' veterans and armed forces members; 
whenever appropriate funding may become available.  (Approved) 

No. 631  (Submitted by Department of California)

              PRESERVATION OF THE NATIONAL SOLDIER HOME
        LOCATED AT THE V. A. MEDICAL CENTER, WEST LOS ANGELES

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we request the United States Congress to ensure adherence 
to the expressed wishes of the donors of said land, that the terms and 
consideration of the grant be adhered to, that the Pacific branch of the 
national Soldiers' Home for Disabled Veterans be maintained on said 
property, that an opportunity be offered to those who were displaced 
from said National Soldiers' Home to return thereto and that the 
admission requirements for entering the home revert back to the original 
status.  (Approved) 

No. 632  (Submitted by Department of California)

             PAIN CENTER FOR THE NORTHERN CALIFORNIA/NEVADA 
                              VA NETWORK

(Disapproved) 

No. 633  (Submitted by Department of California)

               ADEQUATE FUNDING FOR STATE VETERANS HOMES

(Disapproved) 

No. 634  (Submitted by Department of California)

              EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM FOR MILITARY PERSONNEL 
            INVOLUNTARILY SEPARATED FROM MILITARY SERVICE

(Disapproved) 

No. 635  (Submitted by Department of California)

ESTABLISH A MILITARY TREATMENT FACILITY AT MARCH AFB IN RIVERSIDE COUNTY
       CALIFORNIA FOR MILITARY RETIREES AND THEIR DEPENDENTS

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we go on record in support of an outpatient military 
treatment facility at the former March AFB hospital.  (Approved as 
Amended) 

No. 636  (Submitted by Department of California)

                    CLOSED MILITARY BASE CEMETERIES

(Disapproved) 

No. 637  (Submitted by Department of New Hampshire)

                    FULLY FUND STATE VETERANS HOMES

(Disapproved) 

No. 638  (Submitted by Department of Virginia)

         ESTABLISH A COMPREHENSIVE PROGRAM FOR VETERANS EXPOSED
           TO BIOLOGICAL, CHEMICAL, NEUROLOGICAL, RADIOLOGICAL,
          STRESS PRODUCING CONDITIONS WHILE IN MILITARY SERVICE

(Disapproved) 

No. 639  (Submitted by Department of Virginia)

          REDUCE THE WAITING TIME FOR A DECISION BY THE BOARD
                           OF VETERANS APPEALS

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we request the  Secretary of Veterans' Affairs, to take all 
necessary steps immediately to reduce this waiting time to an acceptable 
time frame.  (Approved as Amended) 

No. 640  (Submitted by Department of Virginia)

            COMPLIANCE WITH VETERANS' PREFERENCE LEGISLATION

(Disapproved) 

No. 641  (Submitted by Department of Wisconsin)

    SUFFICIENT FUNDING FOR THE U. S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR'S VETERANS' 
                EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING SERVICE (VETS)

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we hereby go on record to urge the Congress of the United 
States to appropriate sufficient funds to support the current VETS 
mission.  (Approved as Amended) 

No. 642  (Submitted by Department of Wisconsin)

 SUFFICIENT FUNDING FOR THE LOCAL VETERANS' EMPLOYMENT REPRESENTATIVES 
 (LVERS) AND DISABLED VETERANS OUTREACH PROGRAM (DVOP) REPRESENTATIVES

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we hereby go on record to urge the Congress of the United 
States to appropriate sufficient funds to support the number of LVER and 
DVOP positions as required by Title 38.  (Approved) 

No. 643  (Submitted by Department of Texas)

         VETERANS' PREFERENCE IN FEDERALLY ASSISTED EMPLOYMENT
                        AND TRAINING PROGRAMS

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we hereby petition Congress to enact legislation which 
requires that veterans' preference be applied in all federally assisted 
employment and training programs.  (Approved as Amended) 

No. 644  (Submitted by Department of Texas)

            FULL FUNDING FOR EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING PROGRAMS

(Disapproved) 

No. 645  (Submitted by Department of Texas)

             FUNDING OF NATIONAL VETERANS' TRAINING INSTITUTE

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we petition the Administration and Congress to support full 
funding of the National Veterans' Training Institute so it can 
effectively carry out its mission.  (Approved as Amended) 

No. 646  (Submitted by Department of Texas)

          RETAIN NATIONWIDE PROGRAMS OF EMPLOYMENT ASSISTANCE
                FOR AMERICA'S VETERANS/DISABLED VETERANS 
            AS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we oppose any such elimination of federal direction and 
control over the employment assistance entitlements earned by America's 
veterans/disabled veterans through their honorable service.  (Approved) 

No. 647  (Submitted by Department of Pacific Areas)

          NATIONAL VFW PARTICIPATION IN DOD OVERSEAS JOB FAIRS

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we provide maximum level of support for all future Overseas 
DOD Job Fairs with materials, information, and the assignment of 
knowledgeable and qualified National Employees/Officers to the Job 
Fairs.  (Approved) 

No. 648  (Submitted by Department of Pacific Areas)

      REPAIR AND SEEK HELP FOR THE MAINTENANCE OF THE CEMETERY
        AT CLARK AIR BASE IN THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we urge the United States Government, by legislative or 
administrative action, to seek a long term solution to the neglect of 
the Clark cemetery; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that until a long term solution is reached 
the Veterans of Foreign Wars seek support from all available sources to 
assist the VFW Posts in the Philippines with the annual cost of the 
repair and upkeep of the Clark Cemetery.  (Approved as Amended) 

No. 649  (Submitted by Department of Pacific Areas)

                 SUPPORT PROVISIONS OF SSI TO CITIZENS 
                     RESIDING IN U.S. TERRITORIES

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we urge Congress to support provisions of SSI to citizens 
residing in U.S. Territories.  (Approved as Amended) 

No. 650  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

  BENEFITS FOR FILIPINO VETERANS AND SCOUTS WHO SERVED WITH THE UNITED 
                     STATES ARMED FORCES DURING WWII

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we support legislation to recognize veterans of the 
organized military forces of the Government of the Commonwealth of the 
Philippines, while such forces were in the service of the Armed Forces 
of the United States during World War II, as having been active service 
for purposes of benefits under programs administered by the Secretary of 
Veterans Affairs; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Veterans of Foreign Wars support 
additional legislation that directs the Secretary of Army to issue a 
certificate of service to every national of the Philippine Islands 
deemed by the Secretary to have performed any military service in aid of 
the Armed Forces of the United States during World War II. (Approved as 
Amended) 

No. 651  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

                          NATIONAL CEMETERY SYSTEM

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that legislation be enacted to provide at least one open 
national cemetery in each state with additional cemeteries in major 
metropolitan areas where the veterans' population warrants it; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the United States government not 
abandon military base cemeteries, and if there is no military base to 
assume their upkeep and care, they be incorporated into the VA National 
Cemetery System.  (Approved) 

No. 652  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

                             SKILL STANDARDS

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we will work in partnership with government, industry, 
education, labor and community stake-holders to ensure that development 
of a National System of Skill Standards includes full review and 
consideration of Armed Forces training and development standards. 
(Approved) 

No. 653  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

                            REACTIVATE SMOCTA

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we urge the Administration and Congress to take immediate 
action towards making SMOCTA a top priority training and jobs program 
for recently separated service members.  (Approved) 

No. 654  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

              SANCTIONS FOR VIOLATION OF VETERANS PREFERENCE

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we strongly urge Congress to enact legislation which 
provides that intentional violation of a provision the Veterans' 
Preference Act is a ``prohibited personnel practice'' and therefore is 
subject to corrective and disciplinary action, and intervention by 
Office of the Special Counsel.  (Approved) 

No. 655  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

                         VA MEDICARE SUBVENTION

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we support the swift enactment into law of legislation 
authorizing VA to collect and retain Medicare dollars.  (Approved) 

No. 656  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

  STANDARDIZE UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE (UI) ELIGIBILITY FOR GUARD AND 
                           RESERVE PERSONNEL

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we urge Congress to enact legislation to standardize 
Unemployment Insurance Benefits for Guard and Reserve personnel.  
(Approved) 

No. 657  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

 EXCLUSIVE APPROPRIATIONS SUBCOMMITTEES FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS 
                               AFFAIRS (VA)

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we urge the Congress to establish separate appropriations 
subcommittees exclusive to the Department of Veterans Affairs in both 
the House and Senate.  (Approved) 

No. 658  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

          COOPERATION WITH SBA'S OFFICE OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, through its National Veterans Employment Office, be and is 
hereby authorized to enter into mutual agreements with the Office of 
Veterans' Affairs of the U. S. Small Business Administration, to 
promote, strengthen, and create veterans owned small businesses, and 
thereby foster employment opportunities for veterans of our military 
forces.  (Approved) 

No. 659  (Submitted by Commander-in-Chief)

                    FUNDING OF SBA VETERANS PROGRAMS

     BE IT RESOLVED, by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United 
States, that we support the strengthening and funding of an effective 
veterans entrepreneurship program in the U. S. Small Business 
Administration.  (Approved) 



                  NATIONAL CONVENTION COMMITTEES

      Committee on National By-Laws, Manual of Procedure 
                           and Ritual

  Chairman:  Howard E. Vander Clute, Jr., Past Commander-in-Chief, 
                           New Jersey
Vice Chairman:  Arthur J. Fellwock, Past Commander-in-Chief, Indiana

     (Room 201, Upper Level, Commonwealth Convention Center)

Department               Name                                  Post No.
Alabama..................Charles H. Ayers..........................2739
Alabama..................Lester E. Kapelka.........................5850
Alaska...................Leander P. Carr...........................9978
Arizona..................John M. Jackson...........................3632
Arkansas.................Bobby G. Julian...........................6527
Arkansas.................Leslie King, Jr...........................4554
Arkansas.................Leslie F. Thone...........................3141
California...............Walter Hamilton...........................7420
California...............James Sehrt, Jr...........................1934
Central America..........Marion H. Lasater.........................3876
Colorado.................Mike Bokan................................1771
Colorado.................Terrance D. Jacobson......................3471
Connecticut..............Edward L. Burnham.........................1724
Connecticut..............Ronald Rusko..............................9460
Delaware.................Paul R. Phillips, Jr......................2863
Delaware.................Ira Truitt................................7422
District of Columbia.....Paul E. Wampler............................284
Florida..................Raymond D. Brennan, Jr...................10131
Florida..................James W. Carlisle........................10097
Florida..................Niel Ramsdell............................11146
Georgia..................T. D. Culpepper...........................5032
Georgia..................John F. Gwizdak...........................5080
Georgia..................Charles B. Stephenson...................C of A
Idaho....................A. R. Mason...............................6399
Illinois.................William Regan.............................2377
Illinois.................Vernon A. Soukup..........................8081
Illinois.................John C. Vrtjak............................1612
Indiana..................Terrance Aubuchon.........................1563
Indiana..................John L. Dahman..........................C of A
Iowa.....................Leslie G. Portwood.........................817
Kansas...................Clyde H. Hatcher..........................1254
Kansas...................John J. Stang......................Past C-in-C
Kentucky.................Leroy Ford................................5480
Louisiana................Joseph Guidry.............................3121
Louisiana................Stanley Plessala..........................4222
Maine....................Donald Libby...............................832
Maine....................Peter Miesburger..........................9389
Maryland.................Charles P. McConville......................521
Massachusetts............Theodore R. Eaton.........................2104
Massachusetts............Roy A. Luppino............................1645
Michigan.................Assad Allie................................147
Michigan.................William P. Bennett........................7573
Michigan.................James VanHauter...........................4553
Minnesota................Michael Brainard..........................6587
Minnesota................James Connolly............................4020
Minnesota................Robert E. Hansen...................Past C-in-C
Mississippi..............Leslie C. Blanchard.......................6731
Mississippi..............J. Hollis Smith.........................C of A
Missouri.................Marion B. Reynolds........................5168
Missouri.................Glenn Schaffer...........................11041
Montana..................Tom Pouliot...............................1116
Nebraska.................John Gollihare............................1504
Nebraska.................Billy Smith...............................7028
Nebraska.................Dwaine Wilson.............................1652
Nevada...................Frank Risewick...........................10047
New Hampshire............James McKinnon............................8270
New Jersey...............G. Bruce Eveland..........................7677
New Jersey...............Frank Kvidahl..............................493
New Jersey...............John Mooney................................711
New Mexico...............Lloyd E. Vanderhoof.......................3370
New York.................Daniel Dwyer...............................161
New York.................Elton Klein................................478
New York.................Charles Schnobrich........................3068
North Carolina...........Frank P. Durbino..........................9133
North Carolina...........Preston F. Garris.........................2615
North Carolina...........William J. Hendren........................2031
North Dakota.............Paul S. Aaberg............................6139
Ohio.....................Lawrence Krugman..........................1079
Ohio.....................Greg Vela.................................7424
Oklahoma.................Curtis O. Bohlman, M.D.........Surgeon General
Oklahoma.................Jack E. Naifeh.............................577
Oregon...................Samuel F. Jeffers.........................9745
Oregon...................Doyle Souders.............................2807
Pacific Areas............Leon R. Vileo.............................9951
Pennsylvania.............Benjamin Bowers...........................1690
Pennsylvania.............Americo D. DiLoretto....................C of A
Pennsylvania.............Donald J. Gobbel............................33
Pennsylvania.............Frank J. Zenzer............................676
Rhode Island.............James R. Ross.............................6342
South Carolina...........George M. Pullie........................C of A
South Carolina...........Johnnie C. Robinson.......................2889
South Dakota.............James V. Becker...........................6481
South Dakota.............William F. Cerny..........................9950
South Dakota.............Ray Gallagher.............................2755
Tennessee................Joe A. Murphy, Jr.........................1289
Tennessee................Roy C. Womble...........................C of A
Texas....................Glen M. Gardner...........................3359
Texas....................Robert J. Lyons...........................8246
Texas....................Earnest G. Mudd...........................8541
Texas....................David H. Slider...........................6441
Texas....................F. E. Warden..............................8552
Utah.....................Donald B. Myers...........................8307
Vermont..................Rene Rocheleau.............................778
Virginia.................James L. Booth............................2216
Virginia.................Charles B. Wilkerson......................9808
Washington...............George F. Riedel...........................969
Washington...............Neal Van Wieringen........................1949
West Virginia............Richard W. Homan...................Past C-in-C
West Virginia............Ralph W. Honaker..........................1064
Wisconsin................Steven D. Lawrence.......................10272
Wisconsin................Art Lunde.................................6498
Wisconsin................Edward F. Stockel.........................7896
Wyoming..................Gary Mathisen.............................2221


         Committee on Americanism and Community Activities

   Chairman:  Eric Sandstrom, Past Commander-in-Chief, Washington
  Vice Chairman:  John M. Carney, Past Commander-in-Chief, Florida

      (Room 210, Upper Level, Commonwealth Convention Center)   

Department               Name                                  Post No.
Alabama..................Thomas B. Dean............................2760
Alabama..................Oliver W. Dial.............................924
Alabama..................James Green...............................4388
Alaska...................William Timmons...........................9978
Arizona..................John Halstead.............................3632
Arizona..................Shirley Shaw..............................4647
California...............Leondas Wright, Sr........................4647
Colorado.................Alvin V. Collins............................41
Colorado.................James Fiedler............................10578
Colorado.................Robert L. Goltz.............................41
Colorado.................Wayne J. Thompson.........................5961
Colorado.................Richard Wellensiek........................4171
Connecticut..............Richard Marshall..........................3263
Connecticut..............Bruce Messenger...........................9929
Connecticut..............Dominic Romano............................7330
Delaware.................David F. Butters...........................475
Delaware.................William T. Robbins........................3420
District of Columbia.....L. Anderson................................284
District of Columbia.....Flora V. Moore.............................284
Europe...................Pearce C. Bybee..........................10557
Europe...................Clinton Townsend.........................10692
Florida..................Charles R. Clemons........................2032
Florida..................John Crane................................4407
Florida..................Earl Heath................................4705
Florida..................Robert A. McDade..........................9236
Florida..................Edwin H. Shuman...........................4256
Florida..................LeRoy A. Zigmund..........................4209
Georgia..................William R. Johnson.........................658
Georgia..................Lynn Wilcox................................665
Hawaii...................Roland Lum..................................94
Hawaii...................Nicholas S. Young.........................1540
Idaho....................Randall E. Russell......................C of A
Illinois.................Joseph Berg...............................5691
Illinois.................Eugene J. Karban..........................7980
Illinois.................Richard Kutz..............................2486
Illinois.................Robert J. McMahon.........................2298
Illinois.................Thomas Morgan.............................1592
Indiana..................George R. Ensley.........................10006
Indiana..................John Etsinger..............................985
Indiana..................Vincent Gumulauskis.......................1563
Indiana..................David Lantz...............................1130
Indiana..................Dwight Smith..............................6904
Iowa.....................Muriel E. Allan...........................3633
Iowa.....................Roger Schwieso.............................941
Iowa.....................Gary Williams.............................5459
Kansas...................Daniel Pestinger..........................1432
Kansas...................McKinley Smith............................8773
Kentucky.................Ronald Myers..............................1096
Kentucky.................Joe C. Oliver.............................4075
Louisiana................Wilton J. Aucoin..........................4222
Louisiana................Lincoln J. Savoie.........................5153
Maine....................Joseph H. Gallant..........................832
Maine....................Arthur J. Roy...........................C of A
Maine....................George A. Vokey...........................6859
Maryland.................Tomas F. Bunting..........................2562
Massachusetts............Frank J. Coombes..........................2394
Massachusetts............T. George Kotros..........................1526
Massachusetts............William J. Madera.........................1702
Massachusetts............William T. McCarthy.......................3439
Massachusetts............Cornelius Sharron.........................9566
Massachusetts............Donald M. Smith...........................1526
Massachusetts............Frank J. Tucker..........................10339
Michigan.................Val Lemoncelli.............................552
Michigan.................James Warner..............................1888
Minnesota................Dave Adams................................1782
Minnesota................Calvin D. Ferber...........................612
Minnesota................Francis J. Ginther.........................210
Minnesota................Gordon Kirk...............................8854
Mississippi..............Glenn Patterson...........................6473
Mississippi..............Raymond Tox...............................4057
Missouri.................Jack P. Adams.............................3404
Missouri.................Charles Earls.............................3777
Missouri.................Robert Newell.............................1738
Montana..................Robert C. Smith...........................3177
Nebraska.................Vern E. Hoffart............................131
Nebraska.................Norbert Koenig.............................247
Nebraska.................Eugene Kuhn..............................10718
Nebraska.................James J. Pacas............................4836
Nevada...................Michael Musgrove..........................2350
Nevada...................Herbert Tellkamp..........................2313
New Hampshire............William Champagne.........................1698
New Jersey...............Manuel Almedia............................2226
New Jersey...............Robert Bischoff...........................9691
New Jersey...............George Goodrich...........................4410
New Jersey...............Dominic Lombardelli........................809
New Mexico...............Lawrence R. Frappier......................3015
New Mexico...............Robert L. Riddle.........................10763
New York.................Ron Bush..................................6433
New York.................Harold Leavor.............................9487
New York.................Jack I. Simons............................9217
North Carolina...........Cecil E. Sanders...........................891
North Dakota.............Kent Anderson.............................9068
North Dakota.............Robert Volk...............................1868
Ohio.....................Ray Bayless...............................9520
Ohio.....................Eugene C. Cook.............................693
Ohio.....................Joe Ferencie..............................1863
Ohio.....................Frank Hofstetter..........................2947
Ohio.....................Dan Long..................................1069
Ohio.....................Ralph Rhue................................9294
Oklahoma.................Paul Niedzwiecki.........................15037
Oklahoma.................Earnest Staton...........................10876
Oregon...................Johnnie Baugh.............................1383
Oregon...................Ed L. Williams...........................10644
Pacific Areas............Frank J. Sass............................10216
Pennsylvania.............John Adamecz, Jr...........................245
Pennsylvania.............Wiliam C. Allen............................213
Pennsylvania.............Frank Lopes.................................92
Pennsylvania.............Donald Mills..............................6241
Pennsylvania.............Norman Rettig..............................249
Rhode Island.............Manuel V. Oliver...........................329
South Carolina...........James Hammond.............................4262
South Carolina...........Louis A. Thornton.........................4262
South Dakota.............James E. Fortin............................750
South Dakota.............Howard J. Hermanson........................791
South Dakota.............Larry L. Scudder..........................1273
South Dakota.............John W. Youngberg.........................5807
Tennessee................Charles F. Bearden........................1289
Texas....................Bobby J. Burton...........................3216
Texas....................Charles L. Cannon, Jr.....................5076
Texas....................W. T. Evans...............................4372
Texas....................E. J. Krenek..............................8787
Texas....................George B. Sparkman........................9181
Texas....................Donald L. Wright..........................8134
Utah.....................Aaron Crosman.............................7398
Vermont..................Clifton E. La Plante.......................782
Vermont..................James H. Lane.............................6689
Vermont..................Kevin Maloney.............................6689
Virginia.................Luther E. Anderson.........................392
Virginia.................James E. Higgins..........................7059
Washington...............Richard Petersen.........................10018
Washington...............Delbert W. Underwood......................9476
West Virginia............Scottie E. King...........................1064
West Virginia............Donel C. Kinnard..........................9097
West Virginia............Ralph Stump...............................2716
Wisconsin................Ken Dorow.................................9469
Wisconsin................Michael Furgal............................2312
Wisconsin................John Miller...............................9537
Wyoming..................Charles Ellingwood........................4343


          Committee on Finance and Internal Organization

  Chairman:  George R. Cramer, Past Commander-in-Chief, Illinois
  Vice Chairman:  Ted C. Connell, Past Commander-in-Chief, Texas

      (Room 107, Lower Level, Commonwealth Convention Center)

Department               Name                                  Post No.
Alabama..................Travis Ledbetter..........................3016
Alabama..................Jimmy Manley..............................4765
Alabama..................Tommy G. Richardson.......................2760
Alaska...................Robert Green..............................1685
Alaska...................Robert Klotz..............................9785
Arizona..................William S. Fisher..........................720
Arizona..................Frank Page................................9399
Arkansas.................M. O. Cowley..............................2259
Arkansas.................Bobby Hoggard.............................4517
Arkansas.................Charles O. Wright.........................8347
California...............H. John Flanery.............................85
California...............Lenny Herrst..............................1961
California...............Vernon Hollins, Sr........................5394
California...............Kenneth Murray............................2075
Colorado.................Ray Ammerman..............................3631
Colorado.................Darrell D. Elliott........................1771
Connecticut..............John W. Ledwith...........................2849
Connecticut..............Natt McIntire.............................1672
Connecticut..............Loren Owen...............................10219
Delaware.................Richard D. Dundee.........................7234
Delaware.................Gerald Fournier...........................7234
District of Columbia.....Kenneth J. Allen, Jr.......................341
District of Columbia.....George A. Lange, Jr........................284
Europe...................Norman J. Hirschman......................10592
Florida..................Alex Damalas.............................10097
Florida..................John E. Hamilton..........................7909
Florida..................Ron G. Lee................................7987
Florida..................Robert P. Loftus..........................4643
Florida..................Kenneth A. Thie...........................9272
Georgia..................Edward P. Grealish, Jr....................3200
Georgia..................Roy L. Jordan.............................6686
Georgia..................Robert K. Nelson..........................3200
Hawaii...................James W. O'Brien..........................8616
Idaho....................Emmett Olmstead...........................2072
Illinois.................Russell D. Helmers........................5915
Illinois.................Edward Jarnell, Jr........................8081
Illinois.................Edward Ward...............................3480
Indiana..................David Havely..............................5864
Indiana..................Jerry B. McIntyre.........................2695
Iowa.....................Patrick Shanahan...........................788
Iowa.....................James Shelton..............................941
Kansas...................Robert Sander.............................1751
Kentucky.................Aaron N. Cardwell.........................4075
Kentucky.................Roy M. Heirakuji..........................1913
Louisiana................Cecil Mills...............................2238
Louisiana................Landry Saucier............................1736
Maine....................Wallace Berard............................1285
Maryland.................John J. Gistedt...........................2678
Maryland.................Thomas J. Hercek...........................467
Maryland.................Robert L. Miedzinski......................2632
Massachusetts............Thomas Brennick............................834
Massachusetts............Albert J. Konan............................523
Massachusetts............Thomas Landry..............................697
Massachusetts............Robert E. Llewellyn.......................1526
Michigan.................Donald E. Bell............................8802
Michigan.................Robert Faidley............................7309
Michigan.................Colon P. Laney............................1071
Michigan.................Jack C. Stevens...........................2358
Minnesota................Harold Genrich............................1222
Minnesota................Merlin O. Hanson..........................1639
Minnesota................Lester G. Orton............................363
Mississippi..............Bill Hoyt.................................4272
Mississippi..............Jerry D. Moyers...........................3373
Missouri.................Paul Connors................................30
Missouri.................Chester Doile.............................6272
Missouri.................Charles R. Hauer..........................6840
Montana..................Earl E. Chase.............................1548
Montana..................Charles A. Larsen.........................1116
Montana..................Elred M. Teeples..........................4042
Nebraska.................Carl L. Eby...............................2503
Nebraska.................Earl Stiner, Jr...........................3421
Nevada...................LeRoy J. Heath...........................10047
New Hampshire............Michael Annis.............................2860
New Hampshire............Robert St. Onge...........................8214
New Jersey...............Cosmo DeVincenzo...........................809
New Jersey...............Fred Madsen...............................2636
New Jersey...............Harry Morecroft...........................6061
New Mexico...............James C. Anderson..........................401
New Mexico...............Stanley W. Johnston.......................3277
New Mexico...............Frederick H. Smalley......................3221
New York.................Wilbur Gray...............................1602
New York.................John Scherer..............................1372
North Carolina...........Johnie M. Dyson...........................9881
North Dakota.............Wallace Bolte.............................1326
Ohio.....................Darwin Beyer...............................693
Ohio.....................Robert Cockrell...........................1082
Ohio.....................Ray Conlin................................1069
Ohio.....................Keith Harman.............................30335
Oklahoma.................Gene Langston.............................3573
Oklahoma.................Truman Odell...............................539
Oregon...................Alfred Foust..............................4273
Oregon...................Merlin Pepion.............................3440
Pacific Areas............Roy L. Banning...........................10216
Pacific Areas............Clifton Wilsey............................2485
Pennsylvania.............Thomas Millhouse..........................2435
Pennsylvania.............Howard Stegemann...........................598
Rhode Island.............Benjamin Pezza............................4651
South Carolina...........Melvin L. Emore...........................3034
South Carolina...........Eugene Moore...............................641
South Dakota.............Stanley E. Seymour........................5860
South Dakota.............Tom M. Sherman............................3342
South Dakota.............William H. Tarrell........................1640
Tennessee................Gail Wilson...............................5156
Texas....................J. Gene Bond..............................2147
Texas....................C. W. Buchanan............................3892
Texas....................Buford E. Hudson..........................2147
Texas....................Charles S. Pearson........................1533
Texas....................Manuel O. Rivas.........................C of A
Utah.....................Thomas Kennedy............................3586
Utah.....................Virgil Reiske.............................4918
Vermont..................Curtis E. Brown............................758
Vermont..................W. Tom Myette.............................9653
Virginia.................Otis N. Berry..............................637
Virginia.................John L. Fanshaw, Jr.......................7819
Virginia.................Tommy W. Hines............................7166
Washington...............James W. King.............................3067
Washington...............Edwin F. Rasmussen........................9430
West Virginia............Billy E. Javins...........................8129
West Virginia............Eugene Patrick............................3856
West Virginia............John F. Payne.............................3466
Wisconsin................Ervin R. Antoniewicz......................9469
Wisconsin................Joel Walker...............................1904
Wyoming..................William Saunders...........................579

                     Committee on General Resolutions

     Chairman:  Ray R. Soden, Past Commander-in-Chief, Illinois
  Vice Chairman:  Clyde A. Lewis, Past Commander-in-Chief, New York

     (Room 207, Upper Level, Commonwealth Convention Center)

Department               Name                                  Post No.
Alabama..................Jack F. Ivy...............................2702
Alabama..................Aubrey C. McClure.........................6073
Alaska...................Marcus Butler............................10252
Alaska...................Gerald J. Dorsher.........................5559
Alaska...................Horace Johnson............................9978
Arizona..................Forrest Barker............................1796
Arizona..................Donald Maynard............................7968
Arizona..................R. Bennett Smith...........................549
Arkansas.................Leroy Moore...............................5742
Arkansas.................Raymond Smorol............................4513
California...............Richard Eubank...........................10165
California...............James Lambert.............................8547
California...............Richard Lussier...........................3834
California...............Terry Reeder.............................10110
Central America..........John R. O'Keefe...........................3822
Colorado.................Darrell Anderson..........................2551
Colorado.................Gerald Norman.............................6403
Connecticut..............Edward S. Banas, Sr.....................C of A
Connecticut..............Robert A. Chartier........................4608
Connecticut..............Andrew F. Flanagan.......................10219
Connecticut..............Nelson Foss...............................2046
Delaware.................Clarence Burris, Jr.......................8801
District of Columbia.....Jose Aguilar..............................5471
District of Columbia.....Helen Jeffrey..............................346
Europe...................George W. Eby............................10692
Europe...................Harold Hedges............................10692
Europe...................Richard A. Maryland.......................9845
Florida..................John Fogarty..............................8681
Florida..................Paul Y. Goldych...........................4256
Florida..................James F. Reynolds........................10167
Florida..................Edward Villialume.........................6827
Georgia..................Fred Bollenberg...........................3200
Georgia..................Ray E. Brooks.............................2785
Georgia..................Robert W. Pickens.........................4706
Hawaii...................John H. Chung, Jr.........................2875
Hawaii...................Jesus L. Lagueras........................10850
Hawaii...................Frederick A. Wong.........................1540
Idaho....................Andrew Novosad............................9443
Idaho....................Robert Wayment...........................10328
Illinois.................Eddie J. Griffith.........................1301
Illinois.................John W. Johnston..........................7190
Illinois.................George R. Lobb............................3579
Indiana..................Roger Baker...............................6841
Indiana..................R. L. Johanningsmeier.....................1257
Indiana..................Leo R. Reller.............................2366
Indiana..................Charles Scott..............................261
Indiana..................E. Spencer Walton.......Judge Advocate General
Iowa.....................Robert C. Peters..........................5981
Kansas...................Richard Hill..............................9764
Kansas...................Kenneth Mueller...........................6401
Kansas...................Charley Shoemaker...........................56
Kansas...................Lawrence Tholen...........................2864
Kentucky.................John Hofstetter...........................3205
Kentucky.................Con E. Virgin.............................1168
Louisiana................Tom W. Byrd...............................3619
Louisiana................Floyd Landeche............................3665
Maine....................Ralph T. Danby.............................832
Maine....................John N. Trembley..........................3381
Maryland.................Clayton A. Deaver.........................1858
Maryland.................James Lohman..............................9619
Massachusetts............John O. Beal..............................1857
Massachusetts............Walter G. Gansenberg.......................834
Massachusetts............Michael J. Imbracsio.......................639
Massachusetts............Stanley T. King...........................2346
Massachusetts............Wilfred E. Roberts, Jr.....................697
Massachusetts............Rudolph N. Sibilio.........................144
Massachusetts............David K. Somers...........................1645
Massachusetts............Francis L. Sweeney.........................486
Michigan.................Kenneth Bieskie...........................3672
Michigan.................Eric L. Halvorsen.........................5065
Michigan.................Jerry Kilburn.............................4034
Michigan.................Richard LaFave............................5670
Minnesota................Patrick T. Bohmer..........................246
Minnesota................Timothy Collier............................295
Minnesota................Ted Theodorsen............................6320
Minnesota................Frank Volk................................2717
Mississippi..............H. C. Craig...............................3373
Mississippi..............Marvell Lowery...........................10024
Mississippi..............Donald Verucchi...........................9573
Missouri.................James E. Gill.............................2657
Missouri.................John C. Krug..............................2210
Missouri.................Marion Meier..............................5553
Montana..................Ken Handl.................................2154
Nebraska.................Anthony J. Gallardo........................131
Nebraska.................Lewis Hoobler.............................3606
Nevada...................Russell Forbes............................3819
Nevada...................Daryl L. Mobley...........................3630
New Hampshire............Robert Madigan.............................483
New Hampshire............Raymond Thibeault........................11254
New Jersey...............James Campbell............................2226
New Jersey...............George T. Christenson.....................4949
New Jersey...............William A. Goode...........................809
New Jersey...............George J. Lisicki.......................C of A
New Jersey...............Raymond H. Skinner........................1838
New Jersey...............George VanAllen...........................7504
New Mexico...............Clyde Arsbon..............................3274
New Mexico...............Tyrone M. Benson..........................7686
New Mexico...............James H. Ferguson.......................C of A
New Mexico...............David C. Wimmer...........................7686
New York.................Neil Connolly.............................7227
New York.................Michael Heiman............................2535
New York.................Vincent Siesta.............................546
North Carolina...........Daniel A. Murphy..........................9100
North Dakota.............John L. Strauss...........................1868
Ohio.....................Cliff Bauer...............................3360
Ohio.....................James Comedy..............................3383
Ohio.....................Herbert L. Hines..........................8445
Ohio.....................Raymond Mallett...........................1058
Ohio.....................George W. Marks............................352
Oklahoma.................William P. Beane..........................4977
Oklahoma.................Daniel E. Bennett.........................1189
Oregon...................John Nathan...............................4248
Pacific Areas............Kenneth W. Schaefer.......................2485
Pennsylvania.............Neale Deibler.............................6493
Pennsylvania.............Charles Feltenberger......................2435
Pennsylvania.............Charles A. Skalos.........................2754
Pennsylvania.............Robert Snyder.............................6954
Pennsylvania.............L. E. Stone...............................1718
Rhode Island.............Armondo C. Azzinaro.....................C of A
Rhode Island.............Anthony J. Scudieri........................172
Rhode Island.............Arthur W. Williams.........................183
South Carolina...........John D. Patty.............................9539
South Carolina...........George E. Watts...........................5208
South Dakota.............DeLane E. Fickbohm........................6149
South Dakota.............Ralph J. Haas..............................791
South Dakota.............Eugene Rottenbucher.......................2730
Tennessee................David Wilson..............................4848
Texas....................William R. Ruckman........................2494
Texas....................Lavern H. Terbl...........................9168
Texas....................William B. Warren.........................8564
Texas....................Ron Wilfong...............................1798
Utah.....................John A. Jones.............................8307
Vermont..................John J. Millerick.........................1034
Vermont..................John J. Zuba...............................786
Virginia.................Herman R. Fitzgerald......................2216
Virginia.................Kenneth A. Ward...........................7327
Washington...............Robert H. Berleen.........................9430
Washington...............Donald E. Bracken.........................2289
Washington...............Andrew Martin............................10018
West Virginia............James M. Burkhart.........................1212
West Virginia............Carl L. Stewart............................629
Wisconsin................Bernard J. Boyle........................C of A
Wisconsin................Robert George.............................6498
Wisconsin................Mike McPhail..............................9362
Wisconsin................John Schultz..............................6377
Wyoming..................Herb J. Carstens..........................7756
Wyoming..................Pete Quinell..............................7756


         Committee on National Security and Foreign Affairs

     Chairman:  Allen F. Kent, Past Commander-in-Chief, Arizona
  Vice Chairman:  R. D. Smith, Jr., Past Commander-in-Chief, Georgia

       (Room 208, Upper Level, Commonwealth Convention Center)

                     SUBCOMMITTEE ON POW/MIA

 Chairman:  Billy Ray Cameron, Past Commander-in-Chief, North Carolina
Vice Chairman:  Robert E. Wallace, Past Commander-in-Chief, New Jersey

Department               Name                                  Post No.
Alabama..................Gerald Brock..............................2702
Alabama..................Clyde Maddox..............................5658
Alabama..................Benjamin R. Minshew.........................49
Alaska...................John Guinn...............................10041
Alaska...................James Ruotsala............................5559
Arizona..................Bernard P. Fabritz........................7401
Arizona..................John Knowles..............................2364
Arizona..................Dennis O'Neil..............................720
Arkansas.................Garnett E. Bell..........................11011
Arkansas.................John Bostic...............................2283
Arkansas.................Ron L. Helton.............................9095
Arkansas.................Charles Wilkison..........................4554
California...............Richard Pignone...........................3173
California...............Pete Sozzoni..............................1900
California...............Kenneth Stevens...........................9223
California...............Harry Tanabe..............................9879
California...............Joe Velasquez.............................5059
Central America..........Dannie Cooper.............................3822
Central America..........Walter F. Griggs..........................3835
Colorado.................John M. Loring, Jr........................9221
Colorado.................Vincent Neuroth...........................9644
Connecticut..............Burdett P. Flynn.........................10060
Connecticut..............Donald O'Connor...........................9066
Connecticut..............Thomas C. Walker...................Past C-in-C
Connecticut..............William Woodbury..........................1724
Delaware.................Tom Nagle.................................3238
Delaware.................Benjamin Pernol, Jr.....................C of A
Delaware.................Ralph Trader, Jr..........................2863
District of Columbia.....John P. Breen.............................2979
District of Columbia.....Mitchell A. Mabardy........................346
Europe...................Todd H. Ota...............................3885
Europe...................Dean White..................................27
Florida..................John N. Fabbro............................4206
Florida..................Richard Fitzgerald........................7721
Florida..................Raymond G. Gaouette.......................8681
Florida..................Todd W. Hansford..........................4353
Florida..................Eugene R. Manfrey.......................C of A
Florida..................Donald C. Miller.........................10097
Georgia..................J. Morris Pickens.........................4706
Georgia..................Johnnie M. Shiver.........................4830
Hawaii...................Norbert K. Enos.........................C of A
Hawaii...................Richard J. Haake..........................3850
Hawaii...................Paul K. Kenolio...........................3850
Idaho....................Ralph Hollingsworth.......................3296
Illinois.................Maurice H. Kerckhove......................2153
Illinois.................Gerald Lee................................4183
Illinois.................Russell R. Rieke, Sr....................C of A
Illinois.................Michael J. Spagnoletti....................6869
Indiana..................Leo W. Farnsley...........................3281
Indiana..................George Magurany............................802
Indiana..................Michael Smith.............................2999
Indiana..................Lenas Weisheit............................1114
Iowa.....................Donald Fisher.............................6172
Iowa.....................Arthur Weber..............................1623
Kansas...................Thomas Montgomery..........................112
Kansas...................Norman G. Staab....................Past C-in-C
Kansas...................Raymond Wells.............................8773
Kentucky.................Clarence R. Adkins.......................10017
Kentucky.................Carl Forman...............................5421
Louisiana................Patrick E. Carr....................Past C-in-C
Louisiana................John Lutz.................................6640
Louisiana................R. V. Martin..............................8973
Louisiana................William M. Procter........................1736
Maine....................Chase M. Libby............................6859
Maine....................Jean D. Nadeau............................3335
Maryland.................William E. Berry..........................6694
Maryland.................Joseph F. Rosetta.........................9619
Massachusetts............Roland F. Durrell.........................1272
Massachusetts............Jere L. Hill..............................2425
Massachusetts............Rev. John F. Leonard.......................639
Massachusetts............Francis Powers............................7272
Massachusetts............Tyler Thomas...............................144
Massachusetts............Leroy Williams...............Inspector General
Michigan.................Dale J. Brubaker..........................3941
Michigan.................James N. Goldsmith........................4139
Michigan.................John J. Harrow, Jr........................3724
Michigan.................Jay W. Kotcher............................9809
Michigan.................Elmer J. Wurster..........................7546
Minnesota................Joe J. Mach................................210
Minnesota................Joe McArthur..............................8520
Minnesota................Dean E. Means...........................C of A
Minnesota................John S. Staum......................Past C-in-C
Minnesota................James D. Vetter...........................4020
Minnesota................Larry G. Ziebarth.........................6843
Mississippi..............Dewey King................................4889
Mississippi..............Prentiss Nelson...........................4490
Missouri.................Eugene L. Hoeltge.........................5077
Missouri.................James R. Mueller..........................5077
Missouri.................Calvin Vogelsang..........................3838
Montana..................Louie A. Kuylen...........................4099
Montana..................Robert T. Merrill..................Past C-in-C
Montana..................William H. Miller.........................9250
Nebraska.................Jack L. Armagost........................C of A
Nebraska.................Kenneth R. Collins........................7029
Nebraska.................Vernon L. Fleshman........................3755
Nebraska.................John R. Liebsack..........................2503
Nebraska.................Dan G. Petersen............................131
Nevada...................James Childers............................3848
Nevada...................Randall Morris............................2313
New Hampshire............Robert Crout-Hamel........................1772
New Hampshire............Jerry A. Parenti..........................8546
New Jersey...............Frank DeLorenzo...........................6257
New Jersey...............Fred DiPietro.............................8840
New Jersey...............Pierre Lamereaux..........................2314
New Mexico...............Albino B. Fajardo.........................4293
New York.................Arthur E. Koch, III.......................6780
New York.................Joseph Kreuzer............................2940
New York.................Samuel Pilato..............................307
New York.................Rev. Albert G. Salmon.....................6912
North Carolina...........Michael T. Burris.........................2615
North Carolina...........A. G. Parker..............................8719
North Dakota.............Joseph Shoman.............................7564
Ohio.....................James Dickens.............................5532
Ohio.....................Roger McGlinch, Sr........................4239
Ohio.....................Father George Rinkowski...................5530
Ohio.....................Terry Roan..............................C of A
Ohio.....................Joseph Seibert............................6428
Ohio.....................Dr. John Wasylik...................Past C-in-C
Oklahoma.................Daniel M. Davies, Jr......................4876
Oklahoma.................James E. Newman, Sr.....................C of A
Oklahoma.................James Williamson..........................1189
Oregon...................H. Merle Jackson..........................2471
Oregon...................Patrick Jordan............................4248
Pacific Areas............Thomas I. Elliott.........................9467
Pacific Areas............John F. Welsh.............................8180
Pennsylvania.............Frank C. Hilton....................Past C-in-C
Pennsylvania.............Paul Kopp.................................8896
Pennsylvania.............Almon J. Long..............................283
Pennsylvania.............Anthony J. Longo..........................5205
Pennsylvania.............Gary Moon..................................631
Rhode Island.............John J. Barone............................8955
South Carolina...........William J. Jolin..........................6087
South Carolina...........Arthur D. Mann...........................10420
South Dakota.............Walter F. Joynt...........................1273
South Dakota.............William J. Radigan........................3061
South Dakota.............Duane E. Starkey..........................2969
Tennessee................James A. Hartley..........................4893
Texas....................Charles Howard............................3393
Texas....................M. John Knapp.............................2544
Texas....................Chuck E. Sinclair.........................8905
Texas....................Paul L. Smith.............................3990
Texas....................Robert Speake.............................1922
Texas....................Peter Stack...............................4344
Utah.....................Duane Hall................................5560
Utah.....................Benito G. Russo...........................3586
Vermont..................Merritt Edwards............................782
Vermont..................Kevin Maloney.............................6689
Vermont..................Everett McCabe............................2571
Virginia.................Georgia E. McCracken....................C of A
Virginia.................Walter F. Collins.........................4809
Virginia.................Orville W. Teter..........................3103
Washington...............Thomas J. Asaif, Sr.......................2995
Washington...............Krist Huseby, III..........................969
West Virginia............Russell E. Hanlin.........................6735
West Virginia............Calvin L. Moran...........................4326
West Virginia............Paul E. Nealis............................1101
West Virginia............James E. Taylor...........................4326
Wisconsin................Roy J. Friedel............................1904
Wisconsin................James Jolliffe............................2260
Wisconsin................Robert Yerks..............................6498
Wyoming..................Charles E. Fresorger....................C of A
Wyoming..................Ralph Logan...............................2311
Wyoming..................Arthur L. Rymill..........................2918


             Committee on Veterans Service Resolutions

  Chairman:  Walter G. Hogan, Past Commander-in-Chief, Wisconsin
  Vice Chairman:  John W. Mahan, Past Commander-in-Chief, Montana

      (Room 218, Upper Level, Commonwealth Convention Center)

Department               Name                                  Post No.
Alabama..................Jerry Cole................................5846
Alabama..................Clarence A. Gardner.......................3407
Alabama..................Charles Stephens..........................3128
Alaska...................Robert Anderson..........................10252
Alaska...................Gary Kurpius.............................10221
Arizona..................Fred Chapman..............................1760
Arizona..................Manuel Ferra..............................3516
Arizona..................William Silva..............................836
Arizona..................Ronald L. Slater..........................9829
Arkansas.................James Ford................................3031
Arkansas.................John Foster...............................2278
California...............Robert Etheridge..........................2073
California...............Pat O'Connor..............................2967
California...............Raymond C. Sisk.........................C of A
California...............Jerry Williams............................7636
Central America..........Donald Neely..............................3822
Central America..........David Waites..............................6565
Colorado.................George H. Palmateer.......................4171
Colorado.................Douglas H. Raymond........................9565
Connecticut..............Ronald Christopher........................5095
Connecticut..............Benjamin T. Lord..........................5095
Connecticut..............Michael Montecalvo........................6933
Connecticut..............Glenn Tewksbury..........................10362
Delaware.................Walter Kula...............................3257
Delaware.................William G. Schaen..........................475
District of Columbia.....A. Leo Anderson............................284
Europe...................Wylie K. Miller..........................11281
Europe...................Bruce A. Withers.........................10436
Florida..................James DePass.............................10068
Florida..................Stephen J. Kennedy........................8152
Florida..................Donald L. Pierce..........................8696
Florida..................James Talbert.............................8093
Georgia..................Richard Branson...........................5080
Georgia..................General M. Crumley........................7720
Hawaii...................Kevin Bradley...............................94
Hawaii...................Frank Lamson...............................970
Idaho....................T. C. Brock..............................10444
Illinois.................Rick Frank................................1461
Illinois.................John Leary................................8739
Illinois.................Walter C. Luksta..........................9115
Illinois.................Edward A. Trennert........................2255
Indiana..................Paul Curtice..............................1257
Indiana..................Robert Jenkins............................6919
Indiana..................James J. Thiel.............................717
Indiana..................Joe Yost..................................3281
Iowa.....................Dowd J. Brandt............................9662
Iowa.....................W. P. Shannon..............................733
Iowa.....................Daryl Shinker.............................2349
Kansas...................Thomas Sanko..............................1714
Kansas...................Leon Shaw..................................704
Kentucky.................Raymond J. Barnes.........................1913
Kentucky.................Homer Brown, Jr...........................5484
Louisiana................Jack Coursey..............................5951
Louisiana................Gervous R. Lambright......................3619
Maine....................Timothy Getz..............................3335
Maine....................Kenneth S. Snow, Jr.......................6977
Maryland.................Thomas E. Ryan...........................10080
Maryland.................Alfred N. Simmons.........................8509
Massachusetts............James J. Busa.............................1272
Massachusetts............Robert Malmberg...........................1526
Massachusetts............Gardner S. McWilliams.....................2425
Massachusetts............Anthony B. Piscopo.........................529
Massachusetts............Joseph V. Riley...........................1093
Massachusetts............John T. Tynan..............................561
Michigan.................Wayne A. Buck.............................1888
Michigan.................Edmund R. Gucwa...........................6896
Michigan.................Harvey P. Krug, Jr.........................116
Minnesota................Daniel Bartholomew........................3144
Minnesota................Thomas L. Hanson..........................1639
Minnesota................Joseph Hartel.............................4847
Minnesota................Richard A. Zierdt.........................6587
Mississippi..............David Grimes..............................4057
Mississippi..............Bob L. Keeling............................4486
Mississippi..............Otis Washington...........................9832
Missouri.................William Merideth..........................5366
Missouri.................David Morgan..............................5331
Montana..................Erich J. Maki.............................4149
Nebraska.................Gary C. Krause............................2503
Nebraska.................George Lee................................1652
Nebraska.................Hugh B. Morris............................3606
Nevada...................James L. Martin...........................3819
Nevada...................George Reichard...........................8250
New Hampshire............John M. Lilly.............................1698
New Hampshire............John W. Smart...................Chief of Staff
New Hampshire............Joseph Tomasino...........................8546
New Jersey...............Howard Siverson...........................4374
New Mexico...............Allan W. Kuchinsky........................7686
New Mexico...............Roland G. LaFrance, Sr...................10124
New Mexico...............Joe D. Salas...............................401
New York.................Ralph U. DeMarco........................C of A
New York.................Paul Dyer.................................7290
New York.................Melvin Garrett............................6396
New York.................William McGarr............................6196
New York.................Mario Raimondi............................7868
North Carolina...........Harlan LaBar..............................2057
North Dakota.............Arnold Maier..............................1326
North Dakota.............Earl Redlin...............................3545
Ohio.....................Bob Johnson...............................8850
Ohio.....................Myron Young...............................9571
Oklahoma.................Johnie Asbury.............................1334
Oklahoma.................R. F. Sadler..............................1189
Oregon...................C. George Anderson........................2666
Pacific Areas............Charles Clay..............................1509
Pacific Areas............Earl W. Hanson............................9555
Pennsylvania.............John Gunn.................................2506
Pennsylvania.............George W. Mullen..........................4480
Pennsylvania.............Joseph Salvo..............................5267
Pennsylvania.............John Thomas................................128
Pennsylvania.............Ronald Tyler, Sr..........................1462
Rhode Island.............John A. Bucci............................10011
South Carolina...........M. Hugh Gunter, Jr........................8738
South Carolina...........Richard L. Mayhew..........................641
South Carolina...........Teofolio Rivas.............................641
South Dakota.............Darrell K. Foell..........................3342
South Dakota.............William A. Hollmann.......................7319
South Dakota.............Glenn D. McFarland........................3312
Tennessee................Cooper T. Holt.....................Past C-in-C
Tennessee................R. P. Locke...............................5066
Tennessee................John Scott................................4848
Texas....................Ernest M. Harper..........................3377
Texas....................R. Earl Lord.............................10351
Texas....................Manual Mays...............................9191
Utah.....................Kenneth Bezzant...........................7398
Utah.....................Gary L. Clark...........................C of A
Utah.....................James Payett..............................7442
Vermont..................Brad Reynolds..............................798
Vermont..................Donald R. Young..........................10038
Virginia.................Henry E. Cluney...........................4809
Virginia.................John E. Dodge.............................1503
Washington...............Gordon Davis.............................11270
Washington...............Kenneth M. Harrison.......................1135
West Virginia............Robert J. Milby...........................6450
Wisconsin................William Backes............................8320
Wisconsin................Tony Eulo.................................6498
Wisconsin................Max Schoedel..............................9469
Wisconsin................William Steifvater.........................659
Wisconsin................Bruce Wiese...............................8057
Wyoming..................A. L. Ellefson............................7756
Wyoming..................Kenneth Weber.............................2918


                       COMMITTEE ON CREDENTIALS

           Chairman:  Richard Trombla, Post 1174, Kansas

Department               Name                                  Post No.
Delaware.................Elwood B. Rickards........................7234
Illinois.................James L. Mascola..........................3580
Minnesota................James H. Kennedy..........................3877
Missouri.................James H. Willis............................534


                    Committee on Convention Rules

    Chairman:  Clifford G. Olson, Jr., Past Commander-in-Chief, 
                           Massachusetts
 Vice Chairman:  James L. Kimery, Past Commander-in-Chief, New Mexico

       (Room 102, Lower Level, Commonwealth Convention Center)



                  REPORTS OF THE NATIONAL OFFICERS

Commander-in-Chief
Paul A. Spera

     In every sphere of veterans affairs - at home and abroad - those of 
you in the field made the VFW's voice heard loud and clear this past 
year. As a consequence, the organization's influence was evident on 
Capitol Hill.
     The future of the VA health care system has been in the eye of a 
political storm for nearly two years. By sponsoring eligibility reform 
legislation in the 104th Congress, VFW took a giant leap in assuring VA 
medical care into the 21st century.
     As that legislation weaves its way through the labyrinth of 
congressional hallways, you must remain steadfast in lobbying your 
respective representatives and senators. Keep in mind the distinct 
advantage at hand during an election year. Our ability to sway Congress 
is at its peak.
     No matter what your personal political party preference, it is 
imperative that you exercise your franchise. Politicians must perceive 
unity among veterans on fundamental issues. And preserving and making 
more accessible VA hospitals is one issue behind which most of us can 
unite.
     So during this presidential contest, which will shift into high 
gear after our convention concludes in Louisville, VFW must mobilize its 
electorate like never before. Each veteran's vote does make a 
difference. The slightest of margins in many elections have profoundly 
altered the course of major policies.
     If the VFW-PAC, National Legislative Service or the Action Corps 
can be of assistance in any way, please do not hesitate to utilize any 
or all of them. Questions regarding a candidate's voting record and 
bills vital to veterans can be readily answered.

Domestic Agenda
     While overhauling the VA medical system has topped the VFW's 
agenda, other important issues have been addressed as well. Attention 
has been focused on Persian Gulf Syndrome and Agent Orange, for example. 
Just recently, compensation was authorized for more cancers attributed 
to herbicide exposure in Vietnam.
     The fight for benefits continues, too. Cost-of-living allowances 
(COLAs) for military retirees were debated often. The VFW was always 
there to make sure they were not diminished in the rush to cut the 
budget. A host of issues, in fact, were tied to the effort to balance 
the budget. In the end, the VA was spared severe losses in money and 
personnel.
     This was in no small part due to the efforts not only of your 
lobbying team in Washington, but to the thousands of volunteers at the 
grassroots level who persevered in contacting their representatives in 
Congress. Clearly, the power of the often-derided ``veterans lobby'' is 
not mythical.
     Attention to the concerns of active duty personnel also is 
paramount. You don't have to look into a crystal ball to predict that 
the organization's future constituency will come from today's all-
volunteer, career-oriented armed forces.
     That's why responding to their needs has to be automatic. When some 
in Congress attempted to raise the individual's contribution to the 
Montgomery GI Bill, the VFW rose to defeat them.

Foreign Affairs
     Defense topics arose in relation to China/Taiwan and Cuba in 1996, 
and the VFW responded quickly in accordance with the dictates of its 
resolutions. But it was the civil war in Bosnia and the dispatch of GIs 
there that headed the list on foreign fronts.
     While we opposed U.S. military intervention based on past 
experiences in Somalia and Lebanon, Posts - as they always do - rallied 
to the support of the Army units in the field. Packages and letters 
flowed to GIs, boosting morale and demonstrating solidarity among 
several generations of overseas veterans.
     In late June, I visited Bosnia as part of a veterans organizations' 
delegation. My two days there convinced me that the 1st Armored Division 
and all other elements of Task Force Eagle can adequately handle any 
contingency. Still, they should be home by Christmas as promised.
     For their service, the VFW believes Bosnia veterans should be 
properly recognized with the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (AFEM). 
Only the prestige the AFEM carries will accord them the respect they 
deserve.
     Keeping faith with soldiers of all eras is essential. That's why 
the VFW never loses sight of casualties from past wars. Relations with 
Communist Vietnam and North Korea revolve around a full accounting of 
Americans lost in the Vietnam and Korean wars.
     Diplomatic initiatives aimed at Hanoi must be coupled with 
safeguards that each U.S. concession will be matched with an increased 
information flow from the field and Vietnamese archives. The same holds 
true for North Korea. Though progress has been made with the North, its 
leaders remain largely recalcitrant.
     Internationally and nationally, every VFW accomplishment is the 
direct result of your efforts. As I end my tenure as Commander-in-Chief, 
let me thank my home Post, Department of Massachusetts, Eastern 
Conference, Ladies Auxiliary, Kansas City and Washington staffs and Jim 
Nier and John Moon for answering the Call to Duty.


Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief
James E. Nier

     Serving on the Call to Duty team has been a most gratifying and 
invaluable experience. Thanks to all involved for making this possible 
over the past year.
     It soon became obvious that the key to VFW's success on all fronts 
is continuity. A common agenda must be established at the outset by all 
national chair officers. Only by picking up where a predecessor left off 
can the organization hope to realize its goals.
     Long-term planning is essential. Though a chair officer's term 
spans only one year, he must constantly think of the future. In this 
age, it can require years of lobbying to institute change or pass a 
piece of legislation. That's precisely why a team effort is essential.
     As you are all well aware, eligibility reform of the VA medical 
system has headed the list of priorities for years. Legislation was 
finally introduced in 1996 to open access for more veterans. This must 
remain the primary objective for whomever leads the VFW until it becomes 
reality.
     Other health-related issues are of concern, too. Presumptive 
compensation for veterans suffering from Agent Orange exposure, ionizing 
radiation and the malady known as the Persian Gulf Syndrome is 
warranted. VFW supports whatever research and laws are necessary to 
assist them.
     Continuing battles over the budget, especially concerning the VA, 
will remain of keen interest. Though the VA as an institution enjoys 
widespread support, we must keep vigilant. As the number of veterans in 
Congress drops, that support will diminish.

Manning the Ramparts
     As a recent article in VFW magazine pointed out, we live in an 
``era of savage peace.'' Despite the end of the Cold War, defense 
preparedness is no less important. What that demands are armed forces 
manned by volunteers who are properly compensated and superbly armed.
     If they are going to serve in places like Bosnia and other 
potential hot spots such as the Golan Heights on the Israel- Syria 
frontier, they must be the best-equipped and best- trained in the world.
     Speaking of global military interventions - the recent tendency has 
been to commit U.S. troops and prestige to peacekeeping missions that 
should be the U.N.'s responsibility. Somalia, where a humanitarian 
operation evolved into a military one, is a case in point.
     These types of operations not only drain the defense budget but 
dull the edge of combat units designed to act aggressively. National 
interests - not humanitarian impulses - should dictate the use of our 
precious resources.
     Thank you to all members in the field who have been so supportive 
of me during my travels this year. I look forward to working with you in 
the future and to achieving many worthwhile goals.


Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief
John E. Moon

     Helping to lead the VFW is a privilege. In my present capacity, I 
have been able to apply what I learned during many years in the 
Department of Ohio and on the National Council of Administration.
     Those lessons guided me in 1995-96 and will continue to do so as 
long as I am active in the VFW. Dealing with people and their concerns 
is something to which I have devoted a good portion of my life. 
     Veterans need an organization - the VFW - to assist them and their 
families. And for nearly 100 years we have done just that.
     How that assistance will be most effectively dispensed in the 21st 
century is the question that must be answered. As an organization, we 
are at a threshold - a major turning point. Change is inevitable if we 
are to survive.
     But survival alone is not enough. The VFW has to remain vital - not 
only to veterans but to the nation. Our place in society will be judged 
on what we accomplish for all of America. As society increasingly splits 
into competing special interest groups, the VFW should strive to unite 
for the common good.
     Veteran status transcends all political convictions, religions and 
races. This provides us with a unique opportunity to again be a unifying 
factor in society. In some ways, many of you have been doing so ever 
since you hung up your uniform years ago.
     Civic duty is the concept that prompted you to serve in war in the 
first place. Why not maintain that tradition in your local communities? 
While the Washington Office is designed to lobby and the Kansas City 
office to administer, Posts remain the most visible arm of the VFW 
nationwide. They are intended to do good all over.
     To have a meaningful impact, the VFW will have to launch a renewed 
two-pronged offensive. Community service as the hallmark at the local 
level coupled with a commitment to America nationally will assure us 
enthusiastic public backing well into the next century.
     None of this precludes concentration on the bread-and-butter issues 
so vital to members and veterans in general. Preserving and advancing VA 
medical care, especially eligibility reform, is a key component of all 
VFW strategy. Lobbying of Congress in this regard will continue 
unabated.
     Earned benefits of all kinds - VA home loans, the GI Montgomery 
Bill for the volunteer military and service- connected pensions - will 
be protected without hesitation. The fight for compensation for Persian 
Gulf veterans will continue until justice is done.
     Issues of national security - particularly placing American lives 
on the line abroad - never leave the front burner. These and all 
critical issues will be pursued vigorously.


Judge Advocate General
E. Spencer Walton

     What a pleasure and a continued joy it was for me to serve as your 
judge advocate general for the year 1995-96.
     When stands on various issues had to be taken, the Commander-in-
Chief and his officers were in the forefront, stating their positions on 
behalf of the VFW.
     Society is continually on the move, and it is our duty and yours to 
stay on top of these movements. Only then can we serve the organization 
in the manner that it so richly deserves.
     As my term as your judge advocate general comes to a close, allow 
me a moment to extend to all my fellow veterans my deep gratitude for 
the many courtesies I have received during the year.
     Let me assure you that I will continue to play an integral part in 
the VFW. Whether in or out of office, we all have an obligation to 
continue our involvement.
     Commitment to the organization is the key to success, especially as 
we head into the 21st century.


Surgeon General
Curtis O. Bohlman, M.D.

     Comrades and Sisters, as we come to the close of program year 1995-
96, let us reflect with pride on our many accomplishments. We have 
successfully conducted programs in our local communities highlighting 
the fact that the same veterans, who fought for the  freedoms enjoyed by 
all citizens today, are still striving to make a difference at home. We 
continue to ensure that honor is paid to our country and the flag by 
visibly participating in parades, memorial services, flag-raising 
ceremonies, and other local patriotic events. We educate the youth in 
our local schools by teaching them the history of the wars firsthand - 
told by those who were there - and instruct them that freedom is not 
free.
     Through our Voice of Democracy program we reach thousands of high 
school students annually and challenge them to focus their literary 
talents on a patriotic theme. We continue to support the children in our 
National Home. We regularly visit old veterans in VA hospitals and in 
veterans centers of our various states.
     Through the participation of VFW members of the War Veterans 
Commissions, through our letters to legislators and our visits to the 
Capitol on Veterans Awareness Day, we help guarantee that those who 
served their country when called are not forgotten.
     By employing a talented staff in our Washington Office - men with 
skills in tracking legislation important to veterans, with the ability 
and ready information to provide testimony to congressional committees - 
we are able to affect the plight of America's veterans in the halls of 
Congress in a real and visible manner. Through the VFW Action Corps we 
are able to coordinate letters and phone calls to our legislators in a 
timely fashion and communicate the veteran's view much more effectively. 
All of these things we are able to do because we have banded together - 
more than two million strong - with our comrades in this great 
organization.
     When our comrades make their final departure, we solemnly 
participate in their military funerals - and in so doing we impart to 
them that final honor they are so richly due. 


National Chaplain
Rev. Lyle N. Kell

     Grace is the way. The Bible says, Be strong in grace. I challenge 
all comrades, learn the art of extending grace to those who have hurt 
you. Also, scripture says we must forgive. But, how can I forgive when I 
can't forget? How can I forgive the Japanese, Germans and Italians for 
what they did to America. The thousands they slaughtered, tortured and 
starved to death. The answer is, I can't.
     This disturbs me because the Bible says in Ephesians 4:32, ``And be 
ye kind one to another, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, even as 
God for Christ's sake, has forgiven you.'' 
     So what am I to do? If the trauma is so great and the pain so 
immense that I can't forget, what am I to do? As the Lord Jesus hung on 
that old rugged cross he said, ``Father forgive them for they know not 
what they do.''
     That's it. Let's do the same thing Jesus did. That's how we can 
begin the long lifetime process of learning how to forgive, by 
consciously day by day extending grace to those who have harmed us.
     Grace is unmerited favor. That is, a favor one doesn't deserve. 
Hatred does more harm to the vessel in which it is stored than to the 
object on which it is poured. Extending grace is one great way to 
understand our Call to Duty.
     Thanks to Paul Spera, our Commander-in-Chief, and all VFW comrades 
for a super year.


Chief of Staff
John W. Smart

     It has been an honor and privilege for me to serve as National 
Chief of Staff of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States. 
Commander-in-Chief Spera, thank you once again for this opportunity to 
serve you and our organization.
     I also want to thank the national officers and the Kansas City and 
Washington staffs for providing their assistance. Their dedication to 
our organization should not go unnoticed.
     During the past year, I have had the opportunity to travel across 
this great country, attending meetings and conferences.
     The highlight of my year was a visit to Korea, to provide VA 
assistance to the young men and women who serve in the armed forces. By 
addressing their concerns now, we will go a long way toward attracting 
new members and strengthening our organization in the future. 
     We must continue our support toward all veterans and reach out to 
all men and women on military installations. The future of our 
organization depends on how we recruit these young men and women and our 
willingness to accept change. Our organization must continue to be the 
veterans advocate for rights and entitlements.
     I also want to take a moment to thank all the comrades and sisters 
for the many courtesies I have received during my travels. You truly 
make this the greatest organization in the world. Let us never forget 
that this organization belongs to each of you.
     In closing I want to extend my best wishes to Sr. Vice Commander-
in-Chief James Nier and Jr. Vice Commander-in-Chief John Moon for 
continued success and safe travel. 


Inspector General
Leroy Williams, Jr.

     It has been a privilege and an honor to serve the VFW as Inspector 
General. I sincerely thank Commander-in-Chief Paul A. Spera for the 
opportunity to gain a greater knowledge of our organization. It has been 
one of the most rewarding and outstanding experiences of my life.
     The opportunity to travel and represent the VFW and our great 
Commander-in-Chief has been a most gratifying experience. I have had the 
honor and pleasure of visiting all the conferences and several 
Departments, making new friends and renewing old friendships. The many 
courtesies and gracious hospitality extended to me throughout the year 
will be cherished forever.
     The knowledge I have gained from the many briefings received from 
the State Department, Pentagon, JTF-FA and CIL-HI will assist me in my 
work with the VFW for years to come.
     I would like to thank all the national officers and the staffs in 
both Kansas City, Washington, and the President of the Ladies Auxiliary, 
Helen Lenehan, and her staff for their support and friendship.
     Serving under Commander-in-Chief Spera, an inspiration to us all, 
is a privilege that comes once in a lifetime. I am honored to have had 
the opportunity to serve on the Call to Duty team. Thank you for a dream 
come true.


Adjutant General
Larry W. Rivers

     America's war veterans will soon enter a new century. But they also 
face the dawn of a new age. It is an age in which their service and 
sacrifice will be remembered and appreciated by far fewer of their 
fellow citizens.
     Society's changing mindset will demand that the VFW adapt to a 
different set of assumptions. Essentially, we can no longer assume that 
the public understands veterans needs or respects their opinions on 
issues of national and international importance.
     Now is the time to evaluate our position as an advocate for 
veterans. It is clear that we must balance our demand for entitlements 
not directly related to war with corresponding contributions to the 
nation as a whole.
     Veterans, and the VFW in particular, have a clearly defined role in 
three areas: care for war casualties, defense policy and community 
service. The first is legitimately self-serving; the latter two provide 
immense opportunities for continuing to serve America in other 
capacities.

Lobbying for the Deserving
     Few Americans challenge the right of disabled war veterans to top-
notch medical care or pensions to the families of those killed while 
serving their country. And the vast majority of citizens favor special 
benefits (GI Bill, VA home loans, for example) for anyone willing to 
delay his education or career to defend the country in wartime.
     So protecting benefits for disabled veterans, getting the best deal 
in any national health insurance program (if one is created) and 
battling for a reasonable piece of the budget pie will always be primary 
aims.  Under the U.S. political system, legislative lobbying for 
deserving groups is part of a time-honored tradition.
     Yet as an organization, we should not be content with simply 
successfully lobbying for benefits - no matter how deserving the 
recipients. If we are to retain the respect and support of the American 
people at a time when only a fraction of families have a direct link to 
the armed forces, then we must do more.

Defending the Nation by Extension
     If any group has a vested interest in national defense, veterans 
do. Having been on the receiving end of foreign policies gone wrong, 
they have e every right to help spare another generation the horror of 
war. Some might say it is their duty. Most vets agree.
     This natural concern focuses on troop welfare and morale and 
military interventions. Far too much time is spent debating ``defense 
spending'' - a subject with two very distinct faces. Exposing the right 
face is where VFW comes in.
     Simply more ``spending'' is not the answer to superior defense. 
Sophisticated weapons systems are useless without people to operate 
them. And wars, despite computer technology, have to be won by humans 
risking their lives.
     Veterans can play a key role in generating interest in people-
oriented spending on ``quality of life'' issues. This means adequate pay 
and the best equipment available for those who have to actually face the 
enemy in battle. Veterans have a personal stake in this aspect of 
defense because often their children carry the burden for the next 
generation.
     In the same vein, veterans should speak out on overseas military 
interventions. From firsthand experience, they can assess the human 
price of committing troops to combat. Someone who has been there carries 
immense credibility. The public, largely ignorant of this price, has to 
be educated by those who know.
     Morale is of prime consideration if an intervention occurs. Here is 
where the VFW can mobilize and lead the public in supporting the troops. 
Posts are ideally suited to launch mail drives and adopt units for the 
receipt of packages.
     Probably most critical, though, is assuring that the public 
``separates the war from the warrior.'' Never should a generation of 
veterans be held accountable for a policy not of their making. And when 
veterans return, their welcome home must be unequivocal.

Serving the Community
     Beyond the spotlight of national social and defense policy is the 
local community. Perhaps this is where veterans have always had the most 
impact. Every day, without making headlines, individual veterans make a 
difference in the lives of their families and neighbors.
     As citizens first, and veterans second, Americans who have worn a 
uniform have a role to play in the political process, education, public 
safety and community betterment. Either as professionals or volunteers, 
veterans can make immense contributions in these and other fields.
     Active and involved voters set the example for the young. Voting is 
as much a civic obligation as answering the call to arms. Casting a 
ballot is an act of patriotism akin to donning a uniform. What can be 
more important than charting the course of your country's future?
     Positively influencing the minds of children is a noble 
undertaking. Clarifying the portrayal of warriors and veterans in 
American history is one way. Encouraging pride in the nation's 
achievements in general is another. Veterans have a role in the 
classroom.
     Public safety is an additional veterans arena. Fighting crime, and 
drugs specifically, defends society. Countless veterans have served as 
law enforcement officers, firefighters and emergency medical 
technicians. Others lend their time and talents to volunteer efforts.
     Improving your community is personally gratifying. This may mean an 
investment in the physical betterment of a town or its youth through 
special programs such as sponsoring sports. Either way, veterans serve 
as role models when they are needed most.
     Veterans, indeed, have a role to play in all facets of American 
society. We will win public support in the new age by our continuing 
contributions. And the VFW can facilitate giving something back to 
America in all of the areas outlined above. Veterans will be measured 
and respected not so much for what they did in the past as for what they 
do today.

Quartermaster General
Joe L. Ridgley

     The national by-laws impose upon the Quartermaster General an 
important and exacting task - the custody and management of all of the 
VFW's financial resources.  A major cornerstone of the growth and 
success of the organization during the nearly 100 years of its existence 
has been the sound fiscal policies and firm financial guidance of my 
predecessors in the office of Quartermaster General.  I have endeavored 
to continue those policies and provide responsible financial leadership 
that can carry this organization into the 21st century on firm footing.
     To assure that we are ready for that time, the organization must 
operate efficiently, eliminate waste, keep expenses to a minimum, 
maintain a high quality work force and provide members with benefits and 
services that will encourage growth. 
     It will also require that we look closely at our sources of 
revenue, anticipate changing economic conditions and act to implement 
income producing plans that will expand VFW's new and existing programs 
to carry out the purposes of this great organization.
     Finally, it is critical that the existing assets of the 
organization be prudently used and invested so that they will be 
preserved and available to meet the challenges ahead.
     The Quartermaster General's staff in Kansas City has not only been 
fully involved in conducting its ongoing programs, but it has been 
actively engaged in planning for the financial future of the 
organization.  I can assure you those efforts will continue.

OPERATIONS OVERVIEW
     Most of the revenue producing programs and operations managed by 
the Quartermaster General's staff have continued to remain strong and 
contribute substantially to the financial needs of the organization.
     Budgeted income from the Emblem and Supply department, group 
insurance programs and interest on investment income totals $7,239,000. 
     In addition, the annual dues payment from the Life Membership 
program, managed by the Quartermaster General's staff, accounts for 
another $4,540,000.
     The buildings in Kansas City and Washington house the 
organization's operations at very low cost, due in large measure to 
offsetting rental income from tenants.
     Our financial statements as of May 31, located on pages 46-50, help 
us project a surplus by year's end.  Our actual financial status on 
August 31 cannot be accurately predicted at this time, but unless 
unforeseen expenses arise, we expect to remain within the budget.

Quality People
     It is not possible to have a quality organization without quality 
people.  In order to attract and retain the high quality employees 
necessary for an effective, efficient operation, it is important to 
offer competitive benefits. With a great deal of effort, we continue to 
maintain and administer an excellent employee benefit package at a 
reasonable cost. We work very hard to assure that the plans are fair, 
properly administered and not abused. I believe we have been successful 
in those efforts.
     The quality of  our people at all levels is one of the main reasons 
for the VFW's long-term success.  While I work diligently as your 
Quartermaster General to preserve the financial integrity of the VFW, I 
could not do so were it not for the  hardworking, quality staff I am 
privileged to have with me in both Kansas City and Washington.
     Likewise, the contributions of other dedicated people, from the 
Adjutant General's staff, to the Departments and grass-roots members, 
provide the needed ingredients for success.  My sincere thanks go to 
this year's national officers, National Council of Administration and 
Budget & Finance Committee, all of whom have contributed to making this 
another very fine year.
     I want to express appreciation for my election to the Office of 
Quartermaster General.  It is an honor to serve you.  As we move toward 
the 21st century together, we must stay financially sound to sustain the 
power and preeminent position of this great organization.  With your 
help, I am confident we can do so.


Assistant Adjutant General -
Administration
John J. Senk, Jr.

     The Assistant Adjutant General - Administration -assists the 
Adjutant General in conducting and managing the administrative and 
executive functions of the VFW. His responsibilities include supervision 
of Administrative Services, General Services and Post Services and the 
Buddy Poppy departments at National Headquarters.

     Diverse Functions
     The functions of this office are wide-ranging and include such 
diverse tasks as:
     . monitoring and reviewing Department budgets and financial 
reports;
     . reviewing by-laws and incorporation documents of subordinate 
units for compliance with the national by-laws;
     . preparation of administrative pamphlets and forms required for 
internal and external use;
     . composition and preparation of national awards, citations and 
letters of commendation;
     . publication, annually, of the VFW Congressional Charter, By-Laws, 
Manual of Procedure and Ritual following the national convention;
     . filing of statutory congressional and state reports;
     . validation of requests for surplus military equipment;
     . maintenance of historical and legal files;
     . dissemination of summaries and preservation of proceedings of the 
national convention and Council of Administration meetings;
     . establishment and maintenance of eligibility files of national 
officers;
     . ensuring the proper recording of names and addresses of national, 
Department and Post officers; and
     . all other established and administrative functions required for 
the proper and efficient operation of the organization.

Sound Money Management
     Department quartermasters have been observant in forwarding 
quarterly and annual financial reports and budgets required by the 
national by-laws. All reports are carefully reviewed and monitored by 
the administrative staff of the Adjutant General. Every effort is made 
to clarify any financial matters perceived to be unclear and to provide 
on-site assistance to quartermasters who request or need help.
     Records show that most Departments have adopted sound money-
management procedures and policies. Also, we are pleased to note that 
most quartermasters fulfill their responsibility to keep their councils 
of administration informed of their Department's financial status as the 
by-laws require.
     Special briefings are conducted by the administrative staff at 
National Headquarters for beginning Department adjutants/quartermasters.

Policy Matters
     As statutory requirements of doing business increase in complexity, 
the need for maintaining records and up-to-date reviewed by-laws at 
every level becomes increasingly urgent. The Commander-in-Chief's 
Statement of Policy for the operation, management and control of Post 
canteens/clubs addresses these concerns and VFW requirements for such 
operations.
     The wide acceptance of this policy has served to strengthen 
canteen/club operations. As financial responsibility laws become more 
restrictive, there is a compelling need for subordinate units to ensure 
that articles of incorporation have been submitted through channels to 
the Adjutant General. There they are reviewed by the Commander-in-Chief 
in accordance with the national by-laws and then properly recorded with 
the appropriate state authority.
     Approved by-laws serve to smooth out internal Post operations, 
while articles of incorporation provide for the corporate entity of the 
Post and afford individual members protection from legal obligations of 
the Post. All Posts should have current  by-laws and valid articles of 
incorporation reviewed by the Commander-in-Chief and filed with the 
secretary of state of their respective states.

Additional Duties
     Other administrative matters under the supervision of this office 
include the resolution of questions concerning membership eligibility, 
review of disciplinary hearings and appeals, research in the preparation 
of Commander-in-Chief rulings, handling questions concerning emblematic 
matters and the unauthorized reproduction and/or use of the VFW name and 
emblem and membership lists.
     Credentials for the national convention, resolutions and proposed 
amendments to the National By-Laws, Manual of Procedure and Ritual 
submitted by national officers and Department conventions also are 
processed, printed and disseminated by this office.
     My special thanks go to Commander-in-Chief Paul A. Spera with whom 
it has been a pleasure to work. Also, let me extend my thanks to 
Adjutant General Larry W. Rivers, Quartermaster General Joe L. Ridgley, 
as well as to the national and Department officers with whom I have 
worked this past year.


Administrative Services
Director Lawrence LeFebvre

     Responsibilities assigned to Administration Services continue to 
diversify in an ever--changing environment.

Administrative Integrity
     Currently, the Administrative Services director's duties include 
assistance in reviewing and processing the by-laws and articles of 
incorporation for all levels of the organization. This is done to ensure 
compliance with the Congressional Charter, By-Laws, Manual of Procedure 
& Ritual of the VFW.
     The needs of subordinate units are varied and complex. They call 
for greater administrative oversight and coordination at all levels. The 
ever-present threat of litigation mandates the need for Posts, Districts 
and Departments to take appropriate measures to protect their membership 
and the organization from such actions.

Liability Insurance
     All units are urged to maintain adequate liability insurance 
coverage and to adopt by-laws, and incorporate in compliance with the 
national by-laws, as well as state incorporation laws.
     Emblematic matters are also handled by this office.  Cease and 
desist orders for the unauthorized use of the VFW name and emblem are 
processed and issued as required.

     Removal orders for ineligibility originate here, too.

Miscellaneous Responsibilities
     In addition, Administrative Services reviews, resolves and refers 
complaints and problems concerning subordinate units, their officers and 
members. On behalf of the Adjutant General and Commander-in-Chief, 
correspondence is prepared on such matters.
     Other essential functions include: compiling, publishing and 
maintaining records and proceedings of all National Council of 
Administration meetings; and maintaining certificates of compliance from 
the Departments requesting membership mailing lists for Department 
publications.
     Besides minding the daily nuts and bolts operations of the 
organization, Administrative Services plays a vital role in serving as a 
link between National Headquarters and individual members in the field.
     Speaking directly to officers and members on organizational, as 
well as more general veterans issues, is the primary means of doing so.

Point Man on Eligibility Issues
     And no issue is more important to the long-term future of the VFW 
than eligibility. By now, everyone is familiar with the demographics of 
our organization: Simply put, our members are rapidly aging. National 
attrition is increasingly cutting into our ranks. Projections regarding 
the potential pool of recruits among the WWII generation are not 
encouraging.
     On the other hand, there is still vast potential in other sectors 
of the veterans community. 
     The congressional charter of the VFW was amended to allow veterans 
of Korea who did not receive a campaign medal, but served in Korea for 
30 consecutive or 60 nonconsecutive days, anytime after June 30, 1949, 
to be eligible for the VFW.
     In addition to Korean War-and Vietnam War-eligible veterans 
numbering in the millions, let's not forget those who are eligible as a 
result of the 24 campaigns recognized by the Armed Forces Expeditionary 
Medal; the 10 operations under the Marine Corps/Navy Expeditionary Medal 
since WWII; and the 657,000 who earned the Southwest Asia Service Medal.


Buddy Poppy
Chairman Tom Myette
Director James R. Rowoldt

     To assist worthy comrades; to perpetuate the memory and history of 
our dead, and to assist their widows and orphans.
     Carrying out the intent of VFW's objectives, found in Article I of 
the constitution of the VFW, together with the sale of Buddy Poppies, 
have allowed us to build a proud heritage of service to the disabled and 
needy veterans through our nationwide system of service officers.
     The memory and history of the dead is perpetuated through the proud 
display of the Buddy Poppy on our lapel, while their widows and orphans 
are aided by the VFW National Home in Eaton Rapids, Mich.

Department Winners
     The Department of Illinois led in sales this year with 1,049,000 
Poppies. Also joining in the Over One Million Sales Club are California 
and Texas.

Division winners
     Division 1, Department of Minnesota and its Ladies Auxiliary; 
Division 2, Department of Montana and its Ladies Auxiliary; Division 3, 
Department of Kansas and its Ladies Auxiliary; Division 4, Department of 
New Hampshire and its Ladies Auxiliary; Division 5, Department of Oregon 
and its Ladies Auxiliary; Division 6, Department of Massachusetts and 
its Ladies Auxiliary; Division 7, Department of Arizona and its Ladies 
Auxiliary; Division 8, Department of Mississippi and its Ladies 
Auxiliary; and Division 9, Department of Pacific Areas.

tireless efforts
     The achievements of this past year would not have been possible 
without the hard work and dedication of our grassroots members - the 
comrades and sisters who diligently worked in the field. To all of you 
we say ``Thank you.''
     The National Buddy Poppy Committee members who worked exceptionally 
hard to promote this year's Buddy Poppy Program are: W. Tom Myette, 
Chairman, Vermont; Western Conference, Gilbert LaMontagne, Arizona; 
Eastern Conference, John J. Gistedt, Maryland; Southern Conference, 
Billy Ray White, Mississippi; Big Ten Conference, Bill Radigan, South 
Dakota; and Buddy Poppy Director, Ladies Auxiliary, A. Grace Godfrey, 
Georgia. As members of the Call to Duty team, each performed with 
dedication and diligence throughout the year.


Marketing Services
Director Ron Browning
Assistant Director Mark Idel

     Created several years ago, Marketing Services is one of the newest 
offices within National Headquarters.  The establishment of this 
department represents a continued commitment by the VFW's leadership to 
meet the issues of the future and demands of today.
     As the marketplace changes, we need to develop programs and 
strategies which allow for long-term success.  This new office is an 
important first step in meeting the future in a way that translates into 
opportunities.
     A staff is being developed to provide an effective level of 
service. Existing programs and projects have been integrated into the 
daily operations of the office. Projects critical to the future of the 
organization have been identified and, in many cases, implementation is 
well on the way.
     Here is a brief outline of some of the current projects now under 
the direction of Marketing Services:

Non-member Promotions
     Projects are used to educate non-members about VFW programs and 
raise funds for Veterans Service and other programs. 

Department Cooperative Fund-Raising Program
     A cooperative program designed to improve the profitability of 
traditional fund-raisers for VFW Departments and Auxiliaries has been a 
well-received success since it started. More than 60 Departments and 
Auxiliaries have now joined the program.

National Veterans Service Fund
     A host of projects that include: Veterans Service Fund and Past 
Commanders Club.

Coordinated Fund-Raising
     More effective and coordinated fund-raising communicates the 
importance of projects and the reason for promotions. The result should 
yield improved returns with better understanding by the membership.

Continuity in Communications
     Developing member and non-member communications provides a 
consistency of message, creating a strong and more relevant story.

New Promotional Programs
     Development of new and more effective promotional vehicles for 
fund-raising is vital.
     As the future unfolds, these issues will change. Yet, they offer 
the organization a starting point from which to move forward.
     With your help and continued support, this department will succeed.



VFW Foundation
Director Robbie Fazen Marchant

     Successful programs serving veterans, families and communities have 
been the bedrock of the VFW and Auxiliary for almost 100 years. The 
Veterans of Foreign Wars Foundation is an extension of that commitment 
and an indication of the long-term support of these programs.

The Mission
     The mission of the VFW Foundation is to provide support for 
programs that increase the awareness of the sacrifices of veterans. It 
promotes citizenship education, volunteerism and positive youth programs 
and facilitates aid for veterans and their families in need of medical, 
rehabilitative, educational and employment services. The VFW Foundation 
obtains funding from estate gifts, corporations, foundations and the 
Combined Federal Campaign.

Projects
     The VFW Foundation created Freedom Circle to recognize those who 
have already remembered VFW programs in their wills and to educate 
members about setting up a will or trust. Freedom Circle is a select 
group of loyal friends of the VFW who have chosen - by including the VFW 
Foundation in their will or trust - to continue their commitment to 
America's veterans.
     Through their dedication and foresight, these patriotic individuals 
help sustain the valuable programs which aid veterans, their families 
and communities, and protect our proud American heritage. 
     Anyone can join Freedom Circle, simply by remembering the VFW 
Foundation in their will or trust. Individuals who would like to join 
but do not have a will or trust, should know that these documents are 
some of the most important estate planning tools, both for the 
individual and the family.
     The VFW Foundation can provide a planning kit to organize 
information to make meetings with an estate planning attorney more 
productive. To request this kit, please send a note to VFW Foundation, 
VFW Building, 406 W. 34th Street, Kansas City, MO 64111.
     The responsibility for veterans, families and communities does not 
rely on the support of the VFW and Auxiliary members alone. The VFW 
Foundation will request support from corporations and foundations. The 
VFW Foundation's goal is to educate organizations about the important 
roles the VFW and Auxiliary have in community, family and veterans 
issues.
     The needs our programs address require long term commitment, the 
long term commitment that the founders of the VFW had when they formed 
the organization. By supporting the VFW Foundation you can help secure 
VFW programs for our descendants.


Post Services
Director James R. Rowoldt

     The volume and scope of duties and responsibilities assigned to 
Post Services are ever-expanding and changing. These include assisting 
the adjutant general and assistant adjutant general, administration in 
the day-to-day administrative functions of the organization.

Post Charters
     One of the most important historical documents of a post is its 
official charter. Once a post is instituted, it becomes the 
responsibility of Post Services to correspond with the newly formed post 
to ensure that the official charter is engrossed correctly and issued as 
expeditiously as possible.
     Complete and accurate records are maintained on microfilm and 
magnetic optical disk to facilitate the preparation of a replacement 
charter should the original become lost or destroyed. 
     Section 209 of the National By-Laws provides the authority and 
procedure for two or more posts to consolidate. When this occurs, Post 
Services initiates the necessary paperwork to correct the records at 
national headquarters to reflect the consolidation, and a Certificate of 
Charter is engrossed and issued reciting the facts of the consolidation.
     Post Services is also responsible for issuing the Life Membership 
Perpetual Charter once the membership records are reviewed to verify 
that the post has the requisite 25 life members. Once the membership 
figures are verified, the Life Membership Perpetual Charter is prepared 
and mailed to Department headquarters for presentation.
     Post Services has been assigned the responsibility of processing 
requests, preparing applicable orders and maintaining permanent files 
for the adjutant general on all suspension and cancellation actions. It 
is Post Services' duty to keep the adjutant general apprised of any and 
all corrective action taken during periods of suspension to return the 
post to good working order. 
     In addition, the office of Post Services is charged with the 
responsibility for the collection, recording, maintenance and storage of 
the official records of over 10,600 posts.

Post Election Report 
     The annual Post Election Report is the primary source of 
information from which the post officers' files are constituted and from 
which the roster of post officers and the amount of annual dues for each 
post are compiled and stored in electronic data processing.
     The importance of the Post Election Report in the maintenance of 
the officer file is paramount. Without the information provided in the 
annual report of election, it is impossible for the Department or the 
national organization to communicate with the post. 
     The Post Officer File is one of the most frequently used at 
national headquarters so it is absolutely essential that the maintenance 
of the file be current at all times and that special attention be given 
to accuracy in storing and updating the records in data processing. 
     The data processing file contains the names, addresses, and 
telephone numbers of the commander and quartermaster, the amount of 
annual dues, the name, location, date of muster and status of each of 
our over 10,600 posts. 
     Annual dues notices cannot be mailed until the election report is 
received because of the need to know the name and address of the Post 
quartermaster and the amount of the post dues. 
     As the reports of election of Post officers for the 1996-97 year 
are received and processed, computer-generated acknowledgements will be 
sent to the Post quartermaster-elect to confirm the names and addresses 
of the Post commander and Post quartermaster and the amount of annual 
dues. Copies of these acknowledgements and any subsequent changes are 
sent to the respective Departments. 
     The acknowledgement is made on a preaddressed and prepaid return 
postcard with space provided for corrections and/or changes in any of 
the information shown on the card. If the information is correct, the 
post retains the card for use during the 1996-97 administrative year to 
report any changes in the amount of post dues and/or in the offices of 
Post commander and Post quartermaster. 
     As corrections and changes are reported and made, these too are 
acknowledged so the Post quartermaster always has a return postcard in 
his possession to report changes during the year.


Other Responsibilities 
     Other matters falling within the area of the responsibility of the 
director of Post Services include the preparation and dissemination of 
the Post Adjutant/Post Quartermaster Operations Manual, the  Leadership 
Manual, the Quartermaster Tax and Dues Kit, Special Orders, and the 
monthly issuance of General Orders and the National Headquarters 
Bulletin. 
     As our Call to Duty, the goal in Post Services is to ensure that 
the needs of our membership are better served.


Assistant Adjutant General - Programs
W. Benny Bachand

     As we prepare for the opening of the 97th National Convention of 
the Veterans of Foreign Wars, we need to look back on this year to 
examine our record of success and determine what course of action will 
be taken in the future to move our organization forward.
     In changing times there is a set of principles and core values that 
you never want to change, and in changing times the same set of beliefs 
and strategies that have gotten the VFW to where it is now will not get 
it to where it wants to go.
     In the national headquarters departments that I work with, we are 
examining strategies to see if we can improve service to members and the 
veterans of this country. 

National Convention
     Over the past year we have eliminated one day of our convention and 
reduced the number of banquets in an effort to cut expenses for 
delegates. We replaced the parade with the Patriotic Rally, which has 
been well received by members. 
     This year, the U.S. Army Soldier Show, an entertainment showcase 
that tours the world under the direction of the United States Army 
Community and Family Support Center, will be featured at the rally.

Public Affairs
     By the time of this convention, more than 10 million people will 
have seen the VFW Senior Championship golf tournament on ESPN. This 
nationally televised event gives VFW the opportunity to tell the 
American people who we are and what we have done and continue to do for 
our country.
     Additionally, VFW is the title sponsor of the U.S. Army Soldier 
Show. This dynamic show will tour 44 continental U.S. locations (three 
at the Olympics) and other bases in Europe. 
     More than 100,000 servicemen and women, civilians and their 
families will attend these performances. Sponsorship will continue VFW's 
commitment to active-duty personnel to assist in promoting morale, 
welfare and recreation.

VFW Programs
     VFW's commitment to the youth of this country continued this year 
with one of the strongest Voice of Democracy programs ever. VFW Posts 
and Auxiliaries contributed more than 2.6 million dollars in 
scholarships and prizes. 
     The inaugural year for the Youth Essay contest has been met with 
exceptional support and the future of each of these programs is bright.
     VFW works hard to defeat homelessness, and we are searching for 
ways the organization can make a difference in veterans employment, as 
well. As usual, the number of community service projects and money spent 
in support of community betterment is in the millions. While our 
volunteer base continues to decline, the mission and focus is on the 
future.

Membership
     This Call to Duty year has been one of challenge and opportunity. 
It goes without saying that we could have done better, as there are 
millions of eligible veterans who have not joined and become part of 
this effort.
     We continue to see a decline in personal recruiting, but a high 
interest in the VFW is evident in the growth of our member-at-large 
ranks. The direct mail program will result in over 10,000 new and/or 
reinstated members this year. 
     The message that veterans are sending to us is that they will join 
if they are asked. We need to explore every available option in finding 
the solution to recruitment problems.
     The results of the past four years have led to much evaluation and 
analysis of all of the programs that report to this office. We believe 
that the best chance for future success is to make significant changes 
now. 
     We recognize that what we are doing is not working and that we need 
to let go of the old and find solutions to problems. I am confident that 
we have the people and resources to move the VFW Above and Beyond in 
1997.


Americanism
Chairman Fredrick DiPietro
Director Mike Gormalley

     Across America, VFW members with the help of our Ladies Auxiliary 
continue the never-ending task of ensuring the continuation of our 
American way of life.
     Emphasizing our Americanism projects-  is one of the best ways of 
accomplishing that task.  Passing out patriotic literature, conducting 
patriotic ceremonies and parades, holding flag presentations - all of 
these are ways of ensuring the proper education of the American people. 
They also are investments in keeping our nation strong.  In addition, 
the personal satisfaction gained makes all the effort, time and trouble 
worthwhile.
     Throughout the United States, Americans are concerned about 
protecting their flag from any act of disrespect. The VFW and its Ladies 
Auxiliary supported these concerns by petitioning Congress to propose a 
constitutional amendment protecting the U.S. flag from desecration. 
However, the U.S. Senate voted not to change the Constitution.
     Citizenship education programs in our schools and communities are 
important tools in protecting the U.S. flag.
     Many of our Posts and Auxiliaries have conducted flag education 
programs for schools and youth groups. Posts and Auxiliaries are using 
the VFW Citizenship Education Programs to conduct an organized program.
     A Get Out the Vote in `96 program booklet was sent in mid-January 
to all Post, District, County Council and Department commanders and 
presidents to give to their chairmen.
     Post and Auxiliary Americanism chairmen should contact their 
election boards to request voter registration materials to promote 
voting in the primaries and November 1996 elections.
     The VFW National Americanism program has been progressing 
throughout the nation.  This year we have 20 100% Departments.
     In the conference race, the Western Conference leads with 96.9%. 
The Big Ten Conference is second with 96.8%.  They are followed by the 
Southern Conference with 92.9%.  The Eastern Conference is enjoying a 
good year with 88.5%. The overall average of the Americanism program 
reporting is 93.4%.
     The VFW and its Ladies Auxiliary have always been among the leaders 
in supporting a strong Americanism program that educates the general 
public.  Our support of this program has been very important during this 
Call to Duty year.


Community Activities
Chairman Johnnie A. Baugh
Director Mike Gormalley

     The changing character of our communities has created many ways in 
which Americans express concern for the needs of their fellow citizens. 
Volunteer efforts, most studies show, continue to increase and are 
widespread around our great nation. According to recent estimates, 
approximately 89 million Americans engage in some form of volunteer 
activity on a regular basis.
     Working side-by-side with the Ladies Auxiliary, VFW members promote 
community projects that assist others and improve towns and cities.
     Hundreds of Posts and Auxiliaries participated in the national 
community service, Make A Difference Day, on October 28, sponsored by 
USA Weekend and The Points of Light Foundation. Many Posts and 
Auxiliaries were highlighted in local newspapers for their projects. As 
part of the Make A Difference Program, VFW and Auxiliary units from 
Tucson, Ariz., Department of Indiana and Post 9430 in Seattle, Wash., 
were honored as part of the top sixty projects in the country.
     In 1995-1996, there were over 984,700 community service projects 
reported that accounted for 13.6 million volunteer hours and $53.9 
million in donated monies. Yet, the most important and frequently 
overlooked feature of these volunteer efforts is that the VFW's 
relationship with local communities has given it better visibility and 
an image of caring.
     Community Activities reporting has been very good this year. There 
are 25 100% Departments.
     In the Conference race, the Big Ten Conference leads with 98.4%. 
The Western Conference is second with 97.7%. They are followed by the 
Southern Conference with 94.2%. The Eastern Conference is enjoying a 
good year with 90.5%. The overall average of the Community Activities 
program reporting is 97.7%.
     In communities all around the nation, VFW Posts and Auxiliaries are 
considered valuable and highly desirable assets. VFW Posts and 
Auxiliaries are interested in and take an active part in the needs of 
their communities.
     Continuing support of community service programs by the VFW and its 
Ladies Auxiliary is an excellent example of the Call to Duty theme.


National Homeless Veterans Committee
Vice Chairmen Patrick Bohmer, Joseph Caouette, Earl Lord, Boyd Winterton
Coordinator Mike Gormalley

     The National Homeless Veterans Committee, formed in 1994, consists 
of three staff members representing Community Activities, Employment and 
Veterans Service;  a vice chairman representing each conference; a 
representative from the National Ladies Auxiliary and a chairman from 
each Department. The committee is responsible for coordinating VFW and 
Auxiliary efforts with VA programs, state and local community-based 
events such as ``Stand Downs'' and developing resource materials for 
Department and Post use. (A Post Guide to Homeless Veterans Service 
Programs has been sent to all Post commanders and Auxiliary presidents.)
     An important community-based volunteer effort is a Stand Down. A 
Stand Down gives homeless veterans and their families a weekend of 
safety and security during which they can sleep in barracks-style tents 
and receive nutritious meals, health care, clothing, substance abuse and 
job counseling, legal assistance and a wide range of other supportive 
services.
     During the Call to Duty year, many departments reported VFW and 
Auxiliary involvement with the Stand Downs in their areas. Approximately 
8,000 veterans were assisted at these programs.
     VFW and Auxiliary units must participate in local community action 
planning meetings that address the services needed by homeless veterans 
and their families. Programs providing a ``continuum of care'' services 
(i.e., job training/employment referral, homelessness prevention, 
permanent housing and substance abuse treatment, etc.) should be 
supported by VFW volunteers.
     Also, many Departments reported that their members are supporting 
local community based programs by volunteering and donating food, 
clothing items and making monetary donations.
     The National Homeless Veterans Committee is grateful for the 
supportive volunteer work that was completed by VFW and Auxiliary 
members in assisting our homeless veterans.


Safety
Chairman Monte D. Hanson
Director Gordon R. Thorson

     Chairman Monte D. Hanson and Director Gordon R. Thorson would like 
to thank all members of the VFW and its Ladies Auxiliary who actively 
participated in this year's Safety Program.  We have had another 
outstanding year, thanks to the many hours of volunteer effort by the 
comrades and sisters throughout this great nation.
     Interest in the National Safety Citation has grown to an 
extraordinary level. Thousands of Posts/Auxiliaries have qualified for 
the annual award by completing a project in each of the six categories.
     The VFW and its Ladies Auxiliary have, for several years, 
supported, participated in and developed programs or events that promote 
safety.
     Members have involved themselves in a variety of safety efforts 
that cover virtually every possible activity.  This expanding and 
growing program interest deserves proper credit and national 
recognition.
     The procedure used to report Safety Program activities will remain 
the same - completion of the VFW National Programs Report Form will be 
the accepted method of reporting activities.  Please take note of the 
six-category system for reporting safety. This reorganization of the 
Safety Program allows for expanded reporting of individual 
Post/Auxiliary activities.
     Basically, safety activities fall somewhere within six major 
categories:

     Category 1 - Pedestrian Safety
     Category 2 - Drug Awareness
     Category 3 - Recreational Safety
     Category 4 - Highway Safety
     Category 5 - Home/Fire Safety
     Category 6 - Recognition/Other

     These general categories are listed on the VFW National Programs 
Report Form followed by a line to name (describe) the actual activity 
that qualifies the Post/Auxiliary within that particular category.  For 
example:

     . If a Post/Auxiliary sponsors a Lite-a-Tike program, it would 
report this activity under the Pedestrian Safety category.
     . If a Post/Auxiliary conducts a Drive to Survive program, it would 
report this activity under the Highway Safety category.
     . If a Post/Auxiliary officially presents a Life Saving Award 
(certificate) to honor someone in the community, it would report this 
activity under the Recognition/Other category.
     . If a Post/Auxiliary actually sponsors a ``DARE'' program in its 
local school, they should report this activity under the Drug Awareness 
category.
     Virtually any legitimate Safety Program activity conducted by a 
Post/Auxiliary can be reported somewhere within the six categories.  
Credit is given in only one of the six safety categories for each 
activity. The Post safety chairman should determine which one category 
best reflects the activity performed, and then complete the National 
Programs Report Form.

National Safety Citation 
     Once a Post/Auxiliary has performed at least one legitimate 
activity within each of the six categories, that Post/Auxiliary will 
then qualify for a national citation, recognizing its outstanding effort 
(deadline for reporting is May 1 of each program year).
     The six categories and a small sampling of the numerous possible 
activities within each are listed below. The listing is provided to help 
chairmen determine which one category is best suited for the activity 
performed:

Safety Program Activities

     Safety Program Activities
     Category 1 - Pedestrian Safety
     Activity Ideas:
     . Lite-A-Tike        . Bicycle Safety
     . Lite-A-Bike
     . Any legitimate highway safety activity

     Category 2 - Drug Awareness
     Activity Ideas:
     . Veterans Against Drugs     . DARE
     . National Crime Prevention Council's ``McGruff'' campaign
     . There are numerous other opportunities and programs

     Category 3 - Recreational Safety
     Activity Ideas:
     . Hunter Safety     . Water Safety
     . Outdoor Safety (camping, etc.)
     . Roller Safety (skateboards, outdoor roller blades)
     . Numerous other recreational safety activities exist

     Category 4 - Highway Safety
     Activity Ideas:
     . Drive to Survive     . 55 Alive/Mature Driving
     . Buddy System         . State approved driving course
     . Any legitimate highway safety activity

     Category 5 - Home/Fire Safety
     Activity Ideas:
     . Home Protection (safety & security)
     . Fire Prevention (outdoor & indoor)
     . Any activity that protects homes or prevents fires

     Category 6 - Recognition/Other
     Activity Ideas:
     . Life Saving Awards        . Firefighter Awards
     . Police/Sheriff Awards     . Distribution of brochures
     . Recognize an outstanding safety effort and gain credit

     Please note that this Safety Program reporting procedure is more 
thoroughly described in the Safety Chairman's Guidebook. (The guidebook 
is available to Post, District and Department chairmen.)


Voice of Democracy
Chairman Alan Winter
Director Gordon R. Thorson

     Voice of Democracy is an audio-essay scholarship competition 
designed to give high school students the opportunity to express their 
thoughts on a patriotic theme, promote citizenship, and convey their 
message via the broadcasting medium to America.
     Students in grades 10 through 12 in public, parochial and private 
schools are eligible to compete.
     This year's theme - Answering America's Call - focused on American 
achievements and pride in what this country represents.
     More than 117,000 students participated nationwide. More than 5,200 
Posts and over 4,200 Auxiliaries sponsored the program in more than 
7,900 high schools.
     Scholarships, savings bonds and other awards totaled more than $2.6 
million on the Post, District, County Council and Department levels. 
National scholarships contributed another $118,000 for a grand total of 
over $2.7 million.
     The contest is conducted in cooperation with the National 
Association of Broadcasters and its state affiliates.
     State winners received, in addition to their scholarships, an all-
expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C. While there, they visited national 
monuments, the U.S. Capitol Building and met with Sen. John Glenn (D-
Ohio).
     State winners, sponsored by their respective Departments, also 
attended the American Academy of Achievement's Salute to Excellence 
weekend in Sun Valley, Idaho.
     Each winner received the Academy's Golden Scroll Award and was 
enrolled in the Academy's Hall of Fame for America's Young Captains of 
Achievement. The first place national winner received the Academy's 
Golden Eagle Award for the Promise of Greatness.
     Please remember that the new deadlines for the 1996-97 program year 
are as follows: Student entry - Nov. 1; District - Dec. 1; Department - 
Dec. 15.

     Top Ten 1995-96 National Voice of Democracy Scholarship Winners

                      Sponsoring
Place      Winner        Post     Location       Amount       Award

 1   Aaron Pickering     1733  Knoxville, Tenn.  $20,000  VFW T. C. Selman
                                                             Memorial
                                                             Scholarship
 2   Elizabeth Silvia    8214  Manchester, N.H.  $15,000  VFW Scholarship
 3   Matthew Lasher      1114  Evansville, Ind.  $10,000  VFW Scholarship
 4   Peter Lakes         1523  Putnam, Conn.      $6,000  VFW Scholarship
 5   Jon Thomas          1326  Bismarck, N.D.     $5,000  VFW Scholarship
 6   Daniel Riedl        9943  Mansfield, Ohio    $4,000  Minnesota
                                                             Scholarship
 7   Jonathan Bayat      1810  Brentwood, Pa.     $3,000  Dept. of Indiana 
                                                             and its Ladies 
                                                             Auxiliary 
                                                             Scholarship
 8   William Dean        5250  Tifton, Ga.        $2,500  Daniel Sean Wallace 
                                                             Memorial 
                                                             Scholarship
 9   Michael Simpson      577  Tulsa, Okla.       $2,500  Joseph O. Hansen 
                                                             Memorial 
                                                             Scholarship
10   Shay Hitchcock      7057  Gosnell, Ark.      $2,000  Jesse A. Lewis 
                                                             Memorial 
                                                             Scholarship



Youth Activities
Chairman Ralph Stump
Director Gordon R. Thorson

     VFW recognizes the importance of shaping America's youth. Providing 
wholesome activities that stress fair play and good citizenship has been 
the goal and guiding principle of the National Youth Activities 
Committee.
     The Veterans of Foreign Wars and its Ladies Auxiliary have 
traditionally supported and developed programs and events that benefit 
our nation's youth.  This long-standing commitment to youth has grown 
through the years to include almost every possible program or event 
associated with young people.
     This expanding and growing involvement deserves proper credit and 
national recognition.

Youth Activity Reporting
     The procedure used to report youth activities will remain the same 
- completion of the VFW National Programs Report Form will be the 
accepted method of reporting activities.  Please take note of the six-
category system for reporting youth activities. This reorganization of 
Youth Activities allows for expanded reporting of individual 
Post/Auxiliary efforts.
     Basically, all youth activities fall somewhere within six major 
categories:

     Category 1 - Sports/Athletics
     Category 2 - Scouting/Organizations
     Category 3 - Contests/Special Events
     Category 4 - Education/Instruction
     Category 5 - Recognition
     Category 6 - Projects/Other

     These general categories are listed on the VFW National Programs 
Report Form followed by a line to describe the actual activity that 
qualifies the Post/Auxiliary within that particular category.  For 
example:
     . If a Post/Auxiliary sponsors a Youth Essay competition, it would 
report this activity under the Education/Instruction category.
     . If a Post/Auxiliary conducts a Child ID/Missing Children program, 
it would report this activity under the Education/Instruction category.
     . If a Post/Auxiliary presents an Eagle Scout Award (certificate) 
to honor Scouts in the community, it would report this activity under 
the Recognition category.
     . However, if a Post/Auxiliary actually sponsors a Scouting Unit it 
should report this activity under the Scouting/Organizations category.
     Virtually any legitimate youth activity conducted by a 
Post/Auxiliary can be reported somewhere within the six categories.  
Credit is given in only one of the six youth categories for each 
activity performed. The Post chairman should determine which one 
category best reflects the activity performed and then complete the 
Programs Report Form.

National Youth Activities Citation
     Once a Post/Auxiliary has performed at least one legitimate 
activity within each of the six categories, that Post/Auxiliary will 
then qualify for a national citation, recognizing its outstanding effort 
(deadline for reporting is May 1 of each program year).
     The six categories and a small sampling of the numerous possible 
activities within each category are listed at right. The listing is 
provided to help the chairmen determine which one category is best 
suited for the activity performed.

     Youth Activities Program Activities

     Category 1 - Sports/Athletics
     Activity Ideas:
          . Track       . Basketball       . Softball     . Baseball
          . Soccer      . Swimming
          . Bowling     . Special Olympics      . Hockey
          . Any sport or athletic sponsorship

     Category 2 - Scouting/Organizations
     Activity Ideas:
          . Boy Scouts/Explorers/Eagle, etc.
          . Girl Scouts          . Cub Scouts
          . Fellowship of Christian Athletes
          . Boys and Girls Clubs of America
          . Naval Sea Cadets     . Sons of the VFW
          . Future Farmers of America
          . 4-H
          . Any legitimate youth organization sponsorship

     Category 3 - Contests/Special Events
     Activity Ideas:
          . Parades     . Talent shows     . Picnics
          . Dance       . Fishing derbies  . Walk-a-Thon
          . Rifle/pistol competition       . Bike-a-Thon
          . Be creative, support the youth in your community

     Category 4 - Education/Instruction
     Activity Ideas:
          . Ceramics          . Stamp collecting     . Model building
          . Leather craft     . Missing Children     . Youth Essay
                   (Child ID)
          . Develop a youth education program

     Category 5 - Recognition
     Activity Ideas:
          . ROTC Achievement Award (medal and citation)
          . JROTC Achievement Award (medal and citation)
          . Eagle Scout Award (certificate)
          . Honor certificate for students
          . Trophy/plaque presentation ceremony
          . Any youth recognition

     Category 6 - Projects/Other
     Activity Ideas:
          . Build or repair baseball diamonds, soccer fields, playgrounds
          . Donate equipment        . National Home contribution
          . Use your imagination

     Please note that this Youth Activities reporting procedure is more 
thoroughly described in the Youth Chairman's Guidebook. (The guidebook 
is available to Post, District and Department chairmen.)


Membership
Director Thomas L. Kissell
Assistant Director Robert Crider

     The quest to recruit new and reinstated members is still the number 
one priority. However, to continue to grow as an organization, we must 
aggressively pursue younger veterans, and this means we must develop new 
recruiting methods.
     For years our recruiting philosophy has been influenced by a ``back 
to the basics'' approach. It included a lot of knocking on doors and 
collecting dues. This worked fine to keep continuous members, but did 
nothing to attract new ones. Currently, our pool of eligible veterans is 
shrinking, and we must target a younger generation.
     Today's young veterans are mainly interested in finding employment 
after leaving the military, while education possibilities and VA 
benefits are secondary.
     Persian Gulf, Somalia and Haiti veterans are obviously at different 
stages and have different concerns in their lives than WWII, Korea or 
Vietnam veterans. With more diversions and leisure activities available, 
it will be increasingly difficult to obtain the same level of commitment 
from younger veterans.  
     As always, we are the veterans advocate for rights and 
entitlements, but we must expand our objectives to deal with the needs 
and desires of this new generation. 
     By addressing these concerns, we will attract new members and 
strengthen the VFW. 

Active Duty Personnel
     These differences were especially apparent when we spoke with 
active duty personnel on recent trips to Korea.
     Supporting themselves and their families after returning to 
civilian life was their number one concern. A network of job-placement 
services extending from the national level on down to the Posts could 
alleviate some of these concerns.
     We also determined after visiting Korea that we have some 
shortcomings in communicating with active duty personnel. Many there 
were not even aware that they were eligible for membership. 
     It is our intention to aggressively use membership development 
teams, recruiting stations, information booths, sponsorship of the 1996 
U.S. Army Soldier Show and VFW magazine to reach the men and women on 
military installations and explain the benefits of VFW membership.
     Understanding the generational differences between our current and 
potential members, and changing our recruiting methods accordingly will 
be the key to our organization's growth.

New Initiatives
     For this reason, we are excited about the opportunity to present 
the right image to the nation through the VFW Senior Championship. Our 
commercials will give us tremendous exposure and a chance to communicate 
with an audience that may have only limited knowledge of the VFW.
     We're also evaluating the use of telemarketing, direct mail and new 
recruiting incentives in order to help the Departments maintain and 
increase their membership. The bottom line is that we must reach more 
people, with more information through more modern means.
     National headquarters staff needs help, though. We need a 
commitment from the Posts to do more than just collect dues. We need 
creative recruiters on the local level, trying new ways to sign up new 
members. 
     The primary responsibility to stop the back-door loss of continuous 
members and the recruitment of new and reinstated members still rests 
with the Posts and Departments. We need active participation from 
everyone to attract these new members.

Member-at-Large Survey
     Recruiting state and national at-large members through mass 
marketing efforts will continue into next year. Current at-large members 
were surveyed in early 1996 to assess their satisfaction with programs 
and benefits. The survey was also designed to identify areas in which 
additional programs and benefits might be developed. 
     The response rate was 23.75%. The bulk of respondents enlisted in 
the 1940s. Approximately half had been on active duty four years or 
less; nearly 30% were active 20 years or more. The average length of 
national VFW membership was 7.45 years and state membership was 6.67 
years; nearly two-thirds had been members three years or less, and 
almost 15% for six years or more.
     Overall, members were well satisfied with their membership, rating 
it an average of 4 on a scale of 1 (dissatisfied) to 5 (extremely 
satisfied). Vietnam-era veterans were slightly less satisfied. More than 
two-thirds of members-at-large had never been affiliated with a local 
VFW Post. This trend was more pronounced (80%) with Vietnam-era 
veterans.
     VFW magazine was ranked highest, both as an incentive for 
membership and in terms of usefulness. Other publications and 
Legislative Services were second.
     There were a number of areas about which members would like to 
receive additional information. Legislative activities and information 
about national VFW leaders' perspectives were among the highest-rated 
categories. 

Recognizing All American Commanders
     We want to make sure that we reward this participation. And this 
year's national  convention will honor the distinguished Department 
commanders who have earned the distinction as ``All American.''
     Their outstanding leadership enabled the Posts in their states to 
achieve new membership and program activity levels. Of course, the same 
goes for the commendable job performed by District, Post and County 
Council commanders earning All American honors.
     These trendsetters are a rich source of inspiration to all VFW 
members, because we're all, in a sense, recruiters for the organization. 
We must follow their example of hard work to remain an effective 
champion for veterans rights, benefits and entitlements.
     Of course, the commanders don't succeed alone. Tribute should be 
paid to all the members committed to their Post's programs, activities 
and recruiting. They should be praised for their outstanding efforts in 
the 1995-96 membership year. This spirit of sacrifice is what makes us 
strong, and it will enable us to achieve our goals.
     The membership department is ready for the challenges that lay 
ahead. We are going to refocus our efforts to keep up with the direction 
and future mission of the VFW. This will ensure our success into the 
21st century. 



Public Affairs
Chairman David F. Butters
Director Steve Van Buskirk   Assistant Director Vern Pall
Director, VFW Washington Office William G. Smith

     The only thing that keeps that VFW Post going is ``cheap beer and 
bingo!''
     Have you ever heard someone say that? Was it true?
     Although few Posts fall into that category, stereotypes like that 
damage our image and limit our effectiveness and ability to recruit new 
members. We must seek ways to kill that stereotype and enhance the VFW's 
image. A good image ensures support for us as we support America's 
veterans.

Improving Our Image
     Your leaders, assisted by VFW national headquarters, are committed 
to enhancing the VFW image. Together we are  finding new ways to dispel 
the ``cheap beer and bingo'' myth.
     The VFW Senior Championship golf tournament was televised on ESPN. 
During the broadcast, millions of Americans viewed the new VFW 
commercials.
     Some saw, for the first time, that the VFW is active and involved 
with America's youth. They saw that VFW members are serving their 
communities when national disaster strikes. They watched veterans 
helping veterans deal with the ravages of war. And they were reminded of 
the debt each of them owes to America's veterans.

Military Contacts
     Over the past year, you may have become aware that the VFW is 
increasingly concerned about and involved with the young men and women 
who serve in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard,  
Reserve and National Guard units.
     In the coming years, the majority of our new members will come from 
their ranks. For this reason, they must understand who we are, what we 
do and how we can help them and their families.

Increased Community Relations
     You have heard VFW Public Affairs and your national officers 
encouraging you to reach out to organizations in your community. When 
leaders visit your area, they will be asking you to arrange speaking and 
interview opportunities outside the VFW. Groups like the Rotary, 
Kiwanis, Lions, Chamber of Commerce and even other veterans groups.
     These groups provide an opportunity to take the VFW message to 
potential supporters and even eligible veterans who share our concerns 
and values.

More Visibility
     It is becoming increasingly important that our national officers 
reach a larger audience. As a national spokesman for the VFW, your 
Commander-in-Chief can accomplish more for veterans on a talk show, 
reaching thousands, than speaking at a Post luncheon or breakfast.
     Don't be surprised if he chooses to pass up a Post visit in favor 
of a local talk show or a visit with your newspaper's editorial board.
     What is the purpose of these new approaches? It's all about 
dispelling the myth of ``cheap beer and bingo'' - showing America an 
involved and active VFW.
     To continue as a viable and growing advocate for veterans, the VFW 
must reach outside the Post - we must be a major player in every 
community.

Keeping the VFW Strong
     To grow and garner the support of our communities and non-members, 
we must reach out and foster relationships with other groups who share 
our concern for this nation. We must establish alliances which promote 
patriotism, community service, American and family values.
     When more Americans know the VFW, more Americans will support the 
VFW. When more Americans support the VFW, they will be proud of the VFW 
as we ``honor the dead by helping the living.''


Publications
Director Richard K. Kolb

     The editorial staff has the obligation to set journalistic 
standards, uphold the magazine's credibility and preserve the editorial 
integrity of its articles. Part of this custodial responsibility entails 
judgment calls by the staff with regard to content, based on expertise 
in this field.
     Decisions regarding what goes into the magazine are based on the 
quality of writing, timeliness and potential interest to readers.
     Direction is taken from members as expressed in readership surveys, 
letters to the editor and resolutions on national issues. Membership 
interests, as well as journalistic integrity guide content.
     VFW magazine's editorial mission statement is as follows:
     It is the mission of VFW magazine to offer fresh and varied 
perspectives, examine controversial issues and provide an open forum for 
balanced member opinions. At the same time, the magazine will report on 
veterans concerns, promote the VFW's positive image and serve as a 
vehicle for dissemination of VFW policy.
     No endorsement of views of authors should be inferred unless 
specifically identified as the official policy of the VFW. A free 
exchange of ideas is intended to generate reader involvement and enhance 
the magazine's vitality.
     In striving to inform, influence and interest readers, VFW magazine 
will protect, preserve, promote, recognize, remember and respect all 
things sacred to veterans. This means a special focus on and coverage of 
four major subject areas: veterans rights/benefits, defense/foreign 
affairs, patriotism/volunteerism, and recognition/remembrance of 
military service abroad.
     In order to accomplish these goals, VFW magazine must have the 
unfettered ability to communicate so as to compete in the advertising 
marketplace. Since raising revenues to support the organization's 
primary means of communication - the magazine - is a major function, 
projecting a professional journalistic image is essential. 

VFW Launches New Publication
     In keeping with the mandate to change, VFW's Publications 
Department will begin distributing its new internal periodical - 
Checkpoint - in September.
     Checkpoint combines the Washington Action Reporter and the 
Communicator. It will be issued bi-monthly and contain brand new 
features. Among them are Leadership Perspectives, Reader Forum, news 
from the Administration Department and several other areas of the 
organization.
     Though published less frequently, issues updates will be presented 
in digest form for quick reference. On the other hand, in-depth analysis 
will be offered when important legislation is on the agenda or when a 
VFW initiative is being announced. Authorities both in and out of the 
VFW will be quoted to give credibility to all news items.
     With a completely revitalized look, Checkpoint will be a more 
effective means of communication between VFW National Headquarters and 
you, the leader of the grassroots. Moreover, it will present a fuller 
picture of the VFW - ranging from legislative issues to the 
organization's community contributions. To readers on Capitol Hill, the 
VFW will be seen as a well-rounded, full-service organization.
     After it debuts in the fall, we hope you will write and offer your 
suggestions on how it can be improved from the reader's perspective.

     National Publications Contest Top Winners

     Department Publications
     The California Veteran, Oren D. Robinson, Editor

     District and County Council Publications
     Letterpress/Offset
     The Chatter, District 6 (Ohio), E.M. ``Woody'' Russell, Editor
     Mimeograph
     News Bytes, District 1 (Maryland), Harold''Hap'' Harris, Editor

     Post Publications
     Letterpress/Offset
     Post-Guardian, VFW Post 1391 (Wisconsin), Robert E. Albrecht, 
Editor
     Mimeograph
     William B. Pate Newsletter, VFW Post 7401 (Arizona) 
     Geraldine Colins, Editor



Washington Office
Executive Director William G. Smith

     The most impressive accomplishment lately of the VFW Washington 
Office is prevailing upon Congress to act on significant eligibility 
reform legislation.
     The VFW initiative would reform the rules governing access to VA 
health care, along with providing it additional sources of funding so it 
might properly care for veterans now and in the future. VFW Commander-
in-Chief Paul A. Spera drove home the need for such legislation while 
testifying before a joint session of the House and Senate Veterans' 
Affairs Committees in early March of this year.
     You should know, however, that the Washington Office had already 
initiated, and has maintained action on this vital initiative.
     The National Legislative Service (NLS), the National Veterans 
Service (NVS), the Public Affairs Office, and the VFW Action Corps have 
also played a pivotal role in advancing legislation to reform the rules 
governing VA health care. The combined effort is exemplary of the 
Washington Office's multi-faceted, carefully planned and strongly 
proactive legislative campaigns.
     In this way we have accomplished the daunting task of drafting 
legislation conforming to the VFW's views on VA health care eligibility 
reform, H.R. 3119 in the House and S. 1563 in the Senate, drafted and 
introduced. We are now pushing hard and fast to see this legislation 
enacted into law.

Providing Needed Care
     It must be noted here that H.R. 3118, the legislation addressing 
health care reform that stands the best chance of becoming law in this 
Congress, does not satisfactorily fulfill all VFW requirements. 
     Even so, it does answer one of the organization's key objectives: 
enabling VA, within appropriations, to provide all needed hospital care 
and medical services to eligible veterans. This includes all necessary 
outpatient care services, including preventive care and home health care 
to the extent that funding allows.
     H.R. 3118 - which is only moving along thanks to our efforts on 
behalf of H.R. 3119 and S. 1563 - also provides for expanded operational 
flexibility, and will allow VA to collect and retain monies from health 
plans for care furnished to CHAMPUS-covered individuals.
     While H.R. 3118 is not everything we are after, it does represent a 
major step in the right direction.

Advancing Objectives
     Our Kansas City Headquarters is also playing an increasingly 
important role in advancing the organization's legislative objectives. 
The Action Corps, working with the Information Technology Group in 
Kansas, has established a direct computer-to-computer connection which 
allows for virtually immediate transfer of computerized data that would 
otherwise take days or weeks.
     This office's ability to target and communicate with VFW members in 
specific congressional districts depends on this direct computer 
connection as well. The mainframe computer in Kansas City contains and 
operates the congressional districting software.
     The combination of technology and a stronger, more coordinated 
approach to advocacy allows us to achieve legislative victories even in 
trying fiscal times. And while this office's primary emphasis is on 
legislative issues, there are many other areas of accomplishment as 
well.
     Via NVS, the VFW is co-sponsoring with the Department of Veterans 
Affairs the Golden Age Games. This highly successful and rapidly 
expanding program involves disabled veterans age 55 and older.
     NVS is also facilitating the VFW's leadership role on the Homeless 
Veterans Council. This council gets the word out in support of homeless 
veteran programs in communities throughout the country. Along with the 
VAVS program, NVS is responsible for the VFW Community Volunteer 
Program. This program acknowledges and supports those volunteers who 
serve veterans at non-VA health care facilities.
     Another key component of the VFW's Washington Office is National 
Security and Foreign Affairs (NSFA). This office plays a vital role in 
pressing the organization's pro-national defense, pro-military agenda 
before both the Department of Defense and Congress. While all of its 
areas of concern are far too extensive and sensitive to be discussed 
here, I mention one specific area of current involvement.

POW/MIA Effort
     NSFA is now carrying out the VFW's Vietnam Initiative. This 
initiative is directed toward achieving the fullest possible accounting 
of all our MIAs in Vietnam. Toward this end, the initiative has 
solicited information from American Vietnam veterans throughout the 
country regarding Vietnamese missing in Vietnam. This is to encourage 
greater cooperation from the Vietnamese in establishing the fates, as 
well as recovering the remains of all American MIAs and POWs.
     Time and space do not allow me to enumerate this office's myriad 
areas of involvement and accomplishments. I will only say that this 
office's achievements are numerous and undeniable. It is a record in 
which I take considerable and, I believe, appropriate pride.
     I can assure you, the Washington Office's success lies in taking a 
strong, proactive approach in every endeavor. This is only possible 
because of the close communication and coordination taking place among 
all offices. Our respective areas of involvement are numerous, varied 
and often markedly different. Nevertheless, we succeed by working 
together. It is my intention to continue in this vein, and make an 
already superlative example of cooperation even better.


National Veterans Employment
Chairman John A. Bucci
Director Sidney Daniels

     Many times in the recent past, we have noted a trend on the part of 
Congress and the Administration to treat veterans preference as if it is 
a commodity that has outlasted its shelf life. If activities of the 
legislative and executive branches over the past year are any 
indication, it is clear that veterans preference is in for a rough time 
ahead.
     Veterans preference, which for years has played a key role in 
allowing veterans to pursue productive careers through the federal civil 
service, has for all intents and purposes lost its punch in 1996. As 
federal agencies-  continue to downsize in an effort to become smaller, 
more efficient and cost-effective, abuses of veterans preference 
continue to mount.
     Although there continues to be concern about the number of veterans 
being hired, there is equal concern that many agency reduction-in-force 
plans are in direct violation of the 1944 Veterans Preference Act.

Reductions-in-Force
     Reduction-in-force (RIF) procedures are comprehensive in nature, in 
that they detail the permissible actions of an agency as well as explain 
the rights of employees affected by a large lay-off. When an agency 
decides that a RIF is necessary, it must follow specific guidelines to 
determine which employees will be affected. Employees compete for 
retention on the basis of four factors:
     . type of appointment [tenure];
     . veterans preference; 
     . total length of civilian and creditable military services; and 
     . performance ratings.
     This is the way the process is suppose to work. The truth is that 
the RIF process has not worked very well for veterans since the infamous 
U.S. Postal Service ``reorganization'' in 1992-93. In that fiasco, the 
Postal Service conducted an illegal RIF that resulted in the discharge 
of nearly 50,000 workers.
     Although some of the ill-effects of that illegal RIF were 
subsequently corrected, the Postal Service's biggest victory was in 
showing other agencies how to circumvent veterans preference law and 
procedures and not pay a heavy penalty.
     Equipped with this knowledge, agencies have succeeded in developing 
and implementing RIF plans that violate the spirit if not the letter of 
the law. These agencies include the General Accounting Office (GAO) and 
the Departments of Defense, State and Interior.
     Both Congress and the Administration have demonstrated a reluctance 
to take corrective action although both assert their support for 
veterans preference. During the current and past legislative year, for 
example, veterans service organizations have met on a regular basis with 
members of Congress, their staffs and with various White House and 
executive agency officials. 
     The purpose of these meetings is to discuss the violations taking 
place against veterans' preference and actions that are needed in order 
to stop the illegal practices.

politics as usual
     Although interest in the problems confronting veterans in federal 
employment appears to be on the rise in recent months, experienced 
observers are quick to point out that this newfound interest has more to 
do with the fact 1996 is a major election year.
     It has little to do with concern over the current lack of 
effectiveness of federal RIF procedures, which many veterans have come 
to conclude is a bad joke.
     If this was not politics as usual, there would be sufficient 
funding for the Local Veterans Employment Representatives (LVER) and the 
Disabled Veterans Outreach Program (DVOP) personnel to perform their 
jobs at the maximum level.
     As it is, these employment specialists who find jobs for veterans 
are themselves being laid-off. Other veterans programs seriously damaged 
as a result of congressional and Administration lack of interest, 
include SMOCTA and the national Veterans Training Institute (NVTI).
     SMOCTA, the Service Members Occupational Conversion Training Act 
program, was designed to provide job training for service members 
separated due to downsizing, particularly those who only six years ago 
participated in Desert Storm. In any event, no monies have been 
recommended or approved for SMOCTA in FY '97.
     Finally, no funding has been recommended or approved for NVTI, 
which provides state-of-the-art training for state and federal veterans 
employment staff and managers.
     Experienced Washington observers are quick to point out that there 
are often disparities between what elected officials profess to support 
and how they actually vote on those same issues.
     In view of this reality, it is extremely important that members be 
informed and vigilant on those issues that are so critical to the 
survival of veterans programs. Accordingly, it is important that we not 
hesitate during the present political year to express to elected 
officials VFW's support for the programs we believe in.


National Legislative Service
Chairman Melvin Garrett
Director James N. Magill

     For 82 years, the Veterans of Foreign Wars has maintained a 
legislative service for the purposes of promoting legislation which is 
beneficial to veterans, their dependents and survivors, and monitoring 
congressional activity on Capitol Hill.
     From its inception, the National Legislative Service (NLS) has been 
a leader in the veteran's arena in Washington, D.C., and is currently 
respected and admired for its advocacy role on behalf of America's 
veterans.
     Despite the high-profile, media-conscious environment in which it 
functions, the operation of the NLS is possibly not as well understood 
by the general membership as might be expected. This is greatly 
attributable to the fact that likely 90 percent of its accomplishments 
are achieved in the form of old-fashioned hard work performed behind the 
scenes and away from the limelight.
     Not since the GI Bill of Rights immediately following World War II 
has there been such a broad expansion of veterans legislation addressed 
and approved by Congress during the last several years.

informed membership
     Because of the complexities involved in the function of NLS, it is 
important that VFW members have a solid knowledge of the operation of 
this essential component of our national organization. It is only 
through better understanding by our membership that we may develop 
greater strength and effectiveness.
     Even though the NLS is relatively small compared to its 
counterparts in other major veterans organizations, it is also one of 
the most highly regarded and sought out by members of Congress and their 
staffs when the welfare of America's veterans is at stake.
     NLS has established the VFW Action Corps in an effort to better 
inform our membership and involve them in the legislative process at the 
grass roots level. To complement the Action Corps, NLS has acquired a 
computer system that will enable us to target individual members of 
Congress for mass mailing campaigns by political party, committee 
assignment, or congressional district and state. 
     It is becoming more and more apparent that individual contact by 
our members with their elected officials is the key to getting things 
done in Washington.

liaison to congress
     Probably the most visible aspect of NLS's job on Capitol Hill is 
our testifying before committees and subcommittees of Congress with 
respect to pending legislation.
     It is extremely important that our concerns, as mandated by 
resolutions passed by the voting delegates at our most recent national 
convention, are articulated and acknowledged in congressional hearings 
where they become part of the public record.
     With the many diverse issues members of Congress must face, they 
may not always be aware of the nature or the impact an individual bill 
would have on their veteran-constituents.
     Because of the good working relationship we have established with 
Congress, NLS is constantly being sought out for advice and counsel and 
encouraged to contact congressional staffs on varied veteran 
legislation. This is particularly true of members of Congress who do not 
serve on the Veterans Affairs Committees.
     NLS also makes ``informal'' recommendations to the appropriate 
committees of Congress concerning veterans issues. This involves working 
on a day-to-day basis with the Veterans Affairs, Budget, Appropriations 
and Labor committees, to name a few. Of course, we will appear before 
any congressional committee that is addressing an issue that is veteran-
related.

voice of veterans
     Another essential NLS function is keeping the VFW membership 
informed of the activities of Congress and its efforts and progress in 
working with their elected representatives in Washington. In the final 
analysis, it is only the active participation of the strong, committed 
and well-informed VFW membership that has allowed for our numerous 
legislative victories for veterans on Capitol Hill.
     NLS communicates with the membership through VFW magazine, the 
Washington Action Reporter, special publications and direct 
correspondence with individual VFW members.
     The NLS staffers work for you - the member. They bring many years 
of hard work and legislative experience to bear as they fight for the 
good of veterans and the nation. But they do not stand alone.
     There has been in the past a strong and vital partnership between 
the NLS staff and the VFW membership and this must continue. We must all 
stand together, united, ever vigilant and committed in implementing the 
principles of our great organization-to serve veterans and the nation.


National Security and Foreign Affairs
National Security Chairman Theodore Eaton
National POW/MIA Chairman Ronald Rusakiewicz
Director Kenneth A. Steadman

     The year 1995-1996, has been active for VFW's National Security and 
National POW/MIA committees. Armed with resolutions adopted at the 96th 
National Convention, the committees have been involved in a wide range 
of issues affecting national security and our priority POW/MIA effort.

Bosnia Mission
     The civil war in the former Yugoslavia had reached unprecedented 
levels of brutality and savagery that has shocked world audiences. VFW 
has watched this developing situation out of concern that while no vital 
U.S. national interests were at risk, the civil war imperiled the peace 
and stability of eastern Europe. Throughout this tragic war and in the 
peace conference that followed, VFW cautioned against committing U.S. 
forces.
     When it was announced that U.S. troops might be needed to implement 
a peace settlement, Commander-in-Chief Paul Spera addressed VFW 
concerns: ``We are opposed to any direct U.S. military role in the 
former Yugoslavia where we have no U.S. vital interests at stake. Any 
commitment of U.S. military forces risks drawing the United States 
deeper into this prolonged conflict. The VFW does not support the 
employment of our military to such an inconclusive mission.''
     While opposing the policy, the Chief led the call to support U.S. 
troops. VFW staff met with representatives of the military services to 
develop a program to show support for the troops and their families. 
     VFW then teamed up with AT&T to provide prepaid telephone cards to 
servicemen and women who were being transported through Hungary over the 
Christmas holidays.
     VFW also publicized the Army's Family Liaison Office Information 
Hotline to help Army members and their families with questions about the 
Bosnia deployment.
     (Mindful of troops stationed in other dangerous regions, VFW co-
sponsored the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders on a holiday tour of bases in 
the Republic of Korea and the U.S. Army Soldier Show in the Spring.) 
     Spera went to Hungary and Bosnia in June. He visited troops at 
their operational bases and discussed living conditions with their 
commanders.

vietnam MIA initiative
     The POW/MIA issue remains a priority concern of VFW. After taking 
office, Chief Spera rededicated the VFW to the fullest possible 
accounting of missing men. He took VFW's concerns about progress in the 
search for the missing in Vietnam to the President and renewed VFW's 
efforts to recover the MIAs from the Korean War.
     He sought new opportunities to reach our goal of the fullest 
possible accounting. Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief John Moon travelled 
with a presidentially designated delegation to Vietnam, Laos and 
Cambodia to pursue unilateral and joint efforts to recover U.S. 
servicemen.
     In January 1996, VFW began a major program to help recover POW/MIAs 
from Southeast Asia. As outlined in a resolution adopted by the 
delegates to the 96th National Convention, VFW wants to show the 
Vietnamese how important POW/MIAs are to all Americans by collecting and 
returning to the Vietnamese any information about their MIAs.
     The Chief announced the POW/MIA Initiative in an open letter to 
VFW's Vietnam veterans and to all VFW national and Department officers 
and national committeemen. The program seeks to gain the goodwill and 
cooperation of the Vietnamese people in assisting U.S. MIA teams by 
providing information about Vietnamese missing from the war.
     During a May visit to Vietnam, the Chief turned over information 
and artifacts about nearly 900 of their casualties. Vietnamese 
government and veteran officials clearly were moved by the effort, 
expressed their thanks and pledged their continued cooperation with VFW 
effort to reach the fullest possible accounting.
     The VFW POW/MIA Initiative was praised by the U.S. Embassy and 
Joint Task Force-Full Accounting as invaluable in developing goodwill 
among the Vietnamese.

Korean War MIAs
     At last summer's dedication of the Korean War Memorial, VFW 
emphasized Korean War POWs/MIAs. VFW leaders and staff met with White 
House, State and Defense Department officials to urge new efforts be 
undertaken. Contact with North Korean diplomats has been maintained, 
urging them to reopen the POW/MIA issue. The May agreement with the 
North Koreans on joint operations to recover our Korean War missing was 
welcome news to VFW. It was an indication VFW efforts could lead to 
significant results in the future.

defense issues
     In other defense areas, VFW's opposition to placing U.S. forces 
under foreign or U.N. command was successful in ensuring the troops in 
Bosnia remained under U.S. officers.
     VFW achieved some success when the Defense appropriations bill 
passed. Its passage helped to improve national defense, increased 
priority for an anti-missile defense and added more B-2 bombers to the 
strategic arsenal.
     Other security actions increased the pressure on Castro; stemmed 
service member increases to the Montgomery GI Bill; supported the 
Republic of China on Taiwan; and fought for COLA equity for military 
retirees.
     Finally, the VFW expressed outrage over the bombing of the U.S. 
barracks in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia and the loss of 19 American airmen.
     Such actions demonstrate what VFW can do when 2.1 million members 
respond to a Call To Duty and reaffirm VFW's commitment to our country, 
its security and to those who serve.


National Veterans Service
Chairman Robert E. Wallace
Director Frederico Juarbe, Jr.

     You established our mandate to ``Honor the Dead by Helping the 
Living.'' The mission of the National Veterans Service (NVS) staff, and 
our nationwide service network, is to carry out that pledge in your 
name. A VFW service arm blankets the country, standing ready to serve 
you and others you may refer to us for help
     A highly visible sign of your service program is the VFW Guide for 
Service Officers. We take great pride in this publication. No other 
veterans service organization can look back to half a century of 
continuous publication of such a valued reference.
     Often the first point of contact with our VFW service program is 
the Post Service Officer (PSO). Armed with the VFW Guide for Service 
Officers, and in possession of a few basic government forms, the PSO can 
provide valuable assistance toward claiming an entitlement. This 
important volunteer then hands the issue over to the VFW Department 
Service Officer (DSO) for further development. It is a team effort.

heavy responsibility
     The work of your DSO is never done. The DSO assumes a heavy burden 
in terms of responsibility toward veterans, their dependents or 
survivors. He is at once a counselor, advisor and advocate.
     His world involves considerations of due process, protection of 
privacy and suspense dates associated with appeals. His tools of the 
trade are Title 38, United States Code, and the Code of Federal 
Regulations.
     To keep current, DSOs join the NVS staff twice annually to 
participate in a demanding week-long training session. This training 
sharpens collective skills and improves qualifications to act on your 
behalf in seeking possible entitlements.
     Your NVS staff continues to assist in the preparation and 
presentation of formal and informal appeals, initiated by veteran 
claimants before the VA Board of Veterans Appeals (BVA). They have 
available to them the services of a VFW medical and legal consultant.
     Their final product takes the form of a written presentation to the 
BVA on the claimant's behalf, or they accompany the claimant to a 
personal hearing before the Board and the transcript of that hearing 
becomes the official record.

worthwhile appeals
     The VFW also continues to prepare and present briefs on potentially 
meritorious claims to the U.S. Court of Veterans Appeals (CVA). Because 
this is a purely adversarial process, we must be cautious and not accept 
for representation appeals for that court which are frivolous.
     Neither can we practically represent appeals which fail to raise an 
appropriate point in law which would be acceptable for review by the 
court in accordance with the rules it has set for itself.
     The military claims consultants of your NVS staff continue to 
appear routinely with ex-servicemen and women before discharge review 
boards of each of the armed forces. Also, each of the military services 
has a board empowered to correct inequities in military records. We are 
in continuous contact with these boards on behalf of veterans and active 
duty personnel who walk in, write to us and call us daily.

rating hospitals
     Field representatives of your NVS staff continue their round of 
surveys of VA medical facilities and regional offices, with emphasis on 
the VA health care delivery system. The VFW is one of only two veterans 
service organizations performing this important function.
     We have altered our approach to the conduct of VA medical facility 
surveys to try to ferret out the ``hot spots.''
     Therefore, we rely increasingly on you, our membership, and others 
who may avail themselves of VA medical treatment to let us know when a 
problem is brewing. We will try to follow up every lead for you and keep 
the leadership of the VFW out front.
     A simple telephone call or a short letter to the VFW Washington 
Office, to tip us off to medical facilities where things are not going 
well, will cause us to go into action. This is a cooperative effort 
which requires the attention of us all.
     As the VA continues to struggle with reductions in personnel, your 
NVS staff will remain vigilant that the needs of veterans are not 
compromised. 
     To this end, all personnel in VFW service work need to double their 
efforts to ensure that every eligible veteran, dependent, and surviving 
spouse is made aware of, and assisted to obtain any benefits for which 
they may be eligible.
     A trained, dedicated and hard-working cadre of VFW service officers 
remain the cornerstone of the VFW's commitment to service.


Quartermaster General
Quartermaster General Joe L. Ridgley
Assistant Quartermaster General Lawrence M. Maher

REVENUE/EXPENSES
     At the beginning of this fiscal year, I submitted a tentative 
balanced budget to the Commander-in-Chief and the National Budget and 
Finance Committee.  On October 8, 1995, the budget was approved by the 
National Council of Administration. 
     Budgeted net revenue for the fiscal year ending August 31, 1996 is 
$34,144,493. The schedule below shows the proportionate composition of 
this year's budgeted income and expenses by department.

OVERVIEW OF OPERATIONS
     Some brief comments concerning the current status and activities of 
Quartermaster General staff departments:
     Emblem and Supply: Activity has remained high and the department 
continues to provide members with quality merchandise, excellent 
services and reasonable prices.  Increased attention must be paid to the 
illegal and unauthorized use of VFW's emblems and trademarks to protect 
those valuable assets.
     Insurance, Receipts Processing and Member Benefits:  Although 
insurance revenues have declined in recent years, several new insurance 
products will soon be available that should stabilize income.  The 
insurance program offered to our members remains one of the best 
available. The receipts processing operation is very efficiently run and 
permits us to avoid the use of expensive outside contractors for this 
activity.
     Life Membership and Member Dues Processing:  Life Membership is an 
attractive alternative for many members and, thus, life membership has 
continued to grow at an exceptional rate.  Because of declining interest 
rates, it has become increasingly difficult to obtain the level of 
return on investments that the Life Membership Fund previously enjoyed.  
Additionally, it is clear that Posts, Departments and the National 
Organization will need additional funding from the Life Membership Fund 
in the future.  For those reasons, the life membership fees will be 
increased effective September 1, 1996. 
     VFW Properties:  VFW's buildings in both Kansas City and in 
Washington are in good condition and provide excellent facilities for 
the conduct of the Organization's business.  We continue to enjoy 
success in leasing space not being used by the VFW in both facilities, 
which helps to reduce the cost of operating the buildings. The current 
occupancy rate is over 85%, which we believe is excellent in today's 
real estate market.
     Accounting, Human Resources and Purchasing:  An often overlooked, 
but essential function of the Quartermaster General's office is 
accounting which, as the result of increased VFW activities as well as 
significantly more onerous accounting and tax rules, has become much 
more complicated.  Additionally, changing times have dictated that we 
devote more effort to employment-related matters.  As a result, I have 
reorganized departments to place accounting, human resources and 
purchasing under a single Director.  This will facilitate better 
coordination and utilize the strengths of our staff more effectively.

OBSERVATIONS AND CONCLUSIONS
     Expenses continue to increase, in part, due to inflation.  However, 
some expenses have increased at a faster rate than inflation, notably 
professional fees and costs of technology and marketing consultants.
     These increased expenditures are necessary to avoid problems that 
have plagued other organizations and diverted leaderships' attention 
away from the organizations' purposes.  We must also assure that VFW can 
operate as effectively and efficiently as possible in today's 
competitive environment and get VFW's message out into the marketplace 
of ideas.
     Another factor that continues to affect our financial operations is 
the relatively low interest rates in recent years.  Those rates have 
reduced our income from investments.   That means that less income is 
available from investments to meet current expenses.  We continue to 
carefully monitor investments to ensure maximum returns consistent with 
a prudent, conservative investment policy.  We are committed to 
maintaining that investment policy.
     I hope this report gives you some understanding of the financial 
status of your VFW National Headquarters.  A solid financial base is 
essential to support the VFW goals that are common to units at all 
levels.



             



     In addition, $3,698,149.67 is budgeted as the portion of 1996 dues 
applicable to the 1996-97 fiscal year, and $7,700,000 is budgeted as 
collection of life membership fees. Pursuant to the national by-laws, 
these funds are not available for operation in the 1995-96 fiscal year.


Emblem and Supply Department
Director Bud Cale

     The Emblem and Supply  department operates both a direct sale and 
mail order business from the VFW National Headquarters in Kansas City.  
Twenty VFW National Headquarters employees process over 100,000 orders 
each year from VFW members, Posts, County Councils, Districts and 
Departments. Patriotic products are also sold to the general public, 
businesses and government offices.
     In addition to its ongoing order processing and shipping function, 
the department obtains competitive bids from suppliers and negotiates 
purchase contracts, issues purchase orders, designs and coordinates 
artwork and specifications for new and updated products, monitors and 
maintains an inventory in excess of $800,000 and manages both an 
accounts payable and an accounts receivable system.
     The 72-page VFW Emblem and Supply Catalog contains over 1,500 
items, purchased from a network of over 200 suppliers from all parts of 
the United States.  For over 80 years, the department has provided 
office and accounting forms, By-Laws, Rituals, Service Officer Guides, 
eligibility guides, cards, stationery, banners and other products for 
VFW organizations at all levels.  For the member, the department 
provides official caps, uniforms, a wide variety of membership and 
officer pins, badges, patches and medals.  Members are also offered a 
full array of jackets, shirts, ball caps, athletic shoes and other 
personal products.  Many of the official and personal products are 
available with the member's name or Post information.
     The catalog also includes a full range of certificates, plaques and 
trophies. In-house engraving services afford the ability to personalize 
trophies and plaques, as well as the capability to manufacture plastic 
name tags and magnetic auto signs.
     This department, in conjunction with the Program Directors, 
provides products to support VFW National Programs.  Parts of the 
catalog are devoted to each of the following VFW National Programs:  
Life Membership, Americanism, Safety, Buddy Poppy, Youth Activities and 
Voice of Democracy.
     As one of the nation's largest distributors of U.S. Flags, flag 
poles and related products, the Emblem and Supply department is able to 
offer top quality products at a discount from the oldest and largest 
U.S. Flag manufacturer.  We believe it is important that an Organization 
steeped in patriotism be able to offer this symbol of our country to our 
members and affiliated organizations, as well as businesses and 
government. 
     Special events are another of the department's activities.  In past 
years the department has offered products at events welcoming military 
troops back from overseas, commemorating the 50th Anniversary of World 
War II and at the National Convention.  This year the department 
operated the official tournament products tent at the VFW Senior 
Championship.
     This department is a revenue producing and sharing department.  Ten 
percent of the net income of the department goes back to the states from 
which the sales originate.  In the last fiscal year, we refunded over 
$180,000 to the 54 Departments and contributed over $1.6 million to the 
VFW National Headquarters General Fund. 
     Most of the items sold by the department bear the VFW Emblem, logos 
or name, and are protected by registered trademarks. Unauthorized use 
violates the Trademarks Act, Federal criminal statutes and the VFW By-
Laws.  The emblem and other VFW logos and names are very valuable to the 
Organization and use of any of these marks, without the express written 
permission described in Section 803 of the VFW Manual of procedure, is 
prohibited.
     Each year a new catalog goes into effect on September 1.  
Commanders and Post Quartermasters are mailed a free copy of the catalog 
in late August.  Members and others may purchase the catalog by sending 
$2.50 in check or money order to:  VFW Emblem & Supply Department, 406 
W. 34th Street, Kansas City, MO 64111.  A coupon worth $2.50 on a 
purchase of $10.00 or more is included with purchased catalogs, which 
makes the catalog free to those who use it.


Insurance, Receipts 
Processing and Member Benefits
Director Robert W. Crow
Assistant Director William P. Sullivan

Insurance
     The Insurance department is responsible for all nationally 
sponsored insurance programs. Operating in Kansas City, the department 
has 12 employees. Their duties range from handling approximately 60,000 
telephone calls per year, through processing insurance applications and 
claims, to complex negotiations with underwriting insurance companies to 
ensure that good products are offered to the membership and that those 
products are marketed in an effective manner.
     For over 30 years, the VFW Insurance department has been a 
substantial source of revenue to support the Veterans Service and 
Community Activities efforts of the Organization, while providing a 
variety of supplementary life, health and accident coverages to the 
membership. Since its institution in 1962, VFW insurance programs have 
generated almost $60,000,000 which has been used primarily for National 
Veterans Service.  Additionally, since 1971, VFW Departments have 
received almost $3,000,000 from the National Life Insurance Plan's 
administrative fee. Thus, insurance purchased through the VFW helps to 
fund some very important programs that directly benefit our country's 
veterans.
     However, the Insurance department's primary goal is to provide an 
alternative source of quality insurance to meet the needs of our 
members. To date, more than $320,000,000 in benefits has been paid to 
insured members and their beneficiaries. In order to maintain a high 
quality program, it is necessary to research proposed new products 
carefully to assure that they are compatible with membership needs.
     It is also important to affiliate with an insurance company 
experienced in providing an associational insurance program that can 
meet the unique needs of our membership. Most of our policies are 
underwritten by Union Fidelity Life Insurance Company, an A+ AM Best 
rated company.
     In 1992, the Insurance department expanded on its traditional 
coverages and began offering automotive, truck and recreational vehicle 
insurance and home owners insurance through National General Insurance, 
a General Motors company.
     We continue to look for new opportunities to provide good insurance 
products to our members at reasonable rates. We value the input and 
suggestions of our members concerning our programs and the service we 
provide. Your support is crucial to our continued success.

Receipts Processing
     The Receipts Processing department was established in 1990 in order 
to reduce the costly processing expenses associated with many types of 
mailings. The department has 12 full-time employees, and temporary 
employees are used at periods of peak demand. In addition to processing 
member and non-member solicitation returns and insurance premiums, the 
department also processes Shot-Gun mailings, direct dues, member-at-
large, PAC and partnership mailings. The department has saved VFW 
substantial sums of money that would otherwise be paid to outside 
contractors and has become a very efficient operation.

Member Benefits
     National Headquarters offers what we believe to be the most 
comprehensive voluntary member benefit package available in a veterans 
organization. VFW members have the opportunity to take advantage of 
excellent services and benefits such as the Travel Service, Merchandise 
Buying Service, Eye Wear Program, VFW Visaï¿½ or Visa Goldï¿½ Cards, Moving 
Service and AMOCO Motor Club. The Member Benefit Handbook briefly 
outlines those voluntary member benefits and provides a telephone number 
or address to contact. This handbook is enclosed in each year's dues kit 
and is also available from your Post Quartermaster.
     The Insurance department receives and evaluates proposals from 
numerous companies to offer products and services as part of the VFW 
benefit package. Some earn VFW's endorsement; most do not. Only those 
that meet VFW's standards for quality, fair pricing and service after 
the sale are permitted to participate.
     To obtain additional free information on any VFW-sponsored 
insurance program or member benefit, write to: Director, VFW Insurance 
and Member Benefits, 406 W 34th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111; or 
call toll free 1-800-821-2606 (in Kansas City, call 561-2338). Hours are 
8:30 AM to 4:00 PM Central Time, any business day.



Life Membership and 
Member Dues Processing
Director Gary Housknecht

     Life Membership in the VFW continues to be a popular option for 
both new members and continuous members.  There are presently over 
900,000 Life Members constituting approximately 43% of VFW's total 
membership. Using the recent growth rate in Life Membership, there 
should be more than one million active Life Members by 1999.
     Life Membership fees are paid into the Life Membership Fund and 
invested to assure the Fund's viability over the long term. 
Approximately $14 million is distributed annually to Posts, Departments 
and National Headquarters. Professional actuaries examine the Fund at 
least annually to determine the amount that can prudently be distributed 
as annual dues and still assure adequate funds are available to pay the 
anticipated lifetime dues of all Life Members. It may become necessary 
to adjust those distributions from time to time to reflect projected 
returns on investments and actuarial calculations.
     Twenty years have passed since the last Life Membership fee 
increase. Because of prudent management of the Fund over the years and 
several years of favorable interest rates, frequent fee increases have 
been avoided.  Enhancing the ability of the Life Membership Fund to pay 
adequate annual dues for Life Members is the only reason fees have ever 
been increased.   Fees will be increased  effective September 1, 1996. 
Called Plan ``D'', this increase is only the third since the inception 
of the program in 1950.  The Plan D fees have been established to enable 
the Fund to pay out $7.00 annually to Posts and Departments on new life 
members. 
     Life Membership benefits everyone. The member saves money and 
enjoys extra pride because of a lifelong commitment to the VFW. Posts, 
Departments and the National Organization benefit from Life Memberships, 
in part because less time and fewer resources are required to retain 
continuous members, permitting the expenditure of more time and greater 
resources on the important matters facing veterans and their families.
     The Organization benefits in intangible ways as well. That nearly a 
million life members have chosen to indicate their strong support for 
the principles and purposes of the VFW, sends a strong message that our 
membership is committed to the Organization, to its worthy causes and to 
its continued viability and strength. It is a powerful signal that our 
members are in for the long haul and that our position on vital issues 
must be heard and considered.
     The Life Membership Program continues to evolve and change along 
with our members' requirements. Optional payment methods have been 
introduced to make it easy for anyone to purchase a life membership, 
such as the Installment Plan and the use of Visa, Mastercard and 
Discover credit cards. For more information on the Life Membership 
Program, see your Post Quartermaster or contact National Headquarters.

Member Dues Processing
     The Member Dues Processing department, with a staff of three full 
time employees and frequent use of temporary help, handles all dues 
money sent to National Headquarters by members, Posts and Departments. 
Over $11 million is processed and recorded annually. In addition, 
approximately 10,000 refunds are processed by this department each year. 
The new Direct Dues program and receipts from Member-at-Large mailings 
are recent challenges that the department has been required to meet and 
it has done so while maintaining high standards for speed and accuracy.
     The Member Dues Processing department is also tasked with 
maintaining an accurate, up to the minute tabulation of VFW membership 
strength. This data is critical to many other aspects of the 
Organization's operations. One of the most important documents prepared 
is the DP-2 form, which is mailed monthly to Posts and Departments. The 
DP-2 lists paid members and the category in which they have been 
counted, and includes a mail activity report that provides address 
changes and other information the Member Dues Processing department has 
received.


             


Benefits of a Life Membership

     . Never have to pay annual dues.
     . Never a dues reminder
     . Savings in membership dues
     . Permanent embossed Life Membership card
     . Uninterrupted subscription to VFW magazine
     . Lifetime accidental insurance policy
     . Continuous support of VFW programs
     . Protection of veterans benefits
     . Protection of member services and benefits
     . Convenience of payment of Life Membership fee by MasterCard, 
Visa, Discover or the new Life Membership Installment plan


Information Technology Department
Manager Don Spielman

     The VFW took its initial steps into the information age in 1964 by 
ordering its first computer system to maintain names and addresses of 
members. Although that move was driven by a postal service decision to 
add zip codes to mailing requirements, VFW leadership at that time had 
the foresight to see the importance of technology in serving the needs 
of a growing membership. In the intervening years our mission, like the 
organization itself, has dramatically expanded. Among the changes that 
have occurred to meet this expanding role:

Staff
     In addition to the manager, the Information Technology (I.T.) 
department has grown to three programmers, three local area network 
(LAN) technicians, and six computer operators. The computer is routinely 
operational on a three-shift, five-day a week basis. 

Membership Database
     The membership database is now on-line. Uses of the database have 
grown to include balancing and recording of membership dues, recording 
and accounting life membership data, preparation of labels to support 
Department publications, dues notices and many other needs involving 
membership name and address information. A recent enhancement permits 
use of seasonal addresses. This should improve our service to our highly 
mobile membership.

Emblem and Supply Department
     In 1968 the first Supply department computer system was created. 
This system has been improved as new and better tools became available. 
It now provides order processing, inventory control, invoice clearing 
and creates shipping tickets, purchase orders and other documents 
required to operate that department. That system is served by the I.T. 
department.

Marketing Services
     In support of fund-raising efforts from non-member sources, a 
database larger than our membership database has been created. Using 
this base, records concerning solicitations, responses, contributions 
received, and other pertinent data are recorded. This database permits 
the Organization to target its solicitation efforts in a more efficient 
manner, resulting in substantial cost savings.

Other Services
     The I.T. department is involved in many other aspects of the 
Headquarters operation as well. It provides a database and the 
capability for in-house processing of several insurance programs and 
works closely with the Receipts Processing department in connection with 
retention of data. VFW payroll and employee benefits data are maintained 
on the mainframe as well. In addition, the department provides the 
Ladies Auxiliary with many of the same services provided to the VFW.

The Future
     Under the direction of then Assistant Quartermaster General Joe 
Ridgley, the I. T. department undertook the creation of a LAN to tie the 
various Headquarters offices together so that important information 
could be shared and made quickly available to Headquarters staff. We 
have connected the LAN with an AS/400 computer and the mainframe system 
to provide access to appropriate databases. As the LAN is fully 
implemented, it will facilitate increased efficiency and more responsive 
service at National Headquarters. We are exploring the potential for a 
Wide Area Network (WAN) linking Departments and, perhaps, Posts to 
National Headquarters.



VFW Properties Department
Director Billy R. Weissend

     VFW owns and operates two substantial properties which provide 
office and work space for most of the Organization's almost 300 
employees and the Ladies Auxiliary. The National Headquarters in Kansas 
City consists of a 12-story office building, totaling 104,000 square 
feet and providing office space for most of the Kansas City staff, and 
an adjacent two story, 33,000 square foot annex housing the Emblem and 
Supply department, the General Services department and a parking garage. 
A nearby, one-story building is used by both the VFW and the Ladies 
Auxiliary. The Washington, D.C. office, located on Capitol Hill directly 
across the street from the Hart Senate Office Building, is a five-story 
building, including 37,000 square feet of space. It houses most of the 
Washington staff. 
     Although VFW operations occupy the majority of the space at both 
facilities, unused space is leased to businesses and, in many instances, 
other non-profit organizations. Rent receipts provide income that helps 
defray maintenance and operating costs of the buildings, reducing VFW's 
expense. Both buildings have remained at an almost 100% occupancy rate.
     Five people are employed in the Properties department at the Kansas 
City facility. They perform all maintenance and repair functions and 
assist in all construction and remodeling work. In addition, there is a 
full-time staff of five that provides twenty-four hour security 
protection. Eight people are employed in the Properties department at 
the Washington, D.C. facility. Maintenance, repair and custodial duties 
are performed by those personnel.
     Although both buildings are older structures, the hard work and 
dedication of the employees at both Kansas City and Washington have 
permitted VFW to maintain the buildings in first class condition, afford 
a good working environment for its employees and provide an attractive 
office space for tenants. Management functions for the two facilities 
are handled by a single director in Kansas City.
     In the last several years, substantial projects have been 
undertaken at both facilities to upgrade energy efficiency, address 
environmental requirements and make the buildings more accessible to the 
disabled. In addition to continuing those projects, we expect to embark 
on a major heating and air conditioning project and install a new alarm 
system in Kansas City as well as other projects to keep the buildings in 
first class condition. The facilities have served VFW well for many 
years and will, we hope, continue to do so for many more. 


Finance and Human Resources
Director Bob Greene

     In an effort to be more responsive to financial and employment 
matters, the accounting, human resources and purchasing functions have 
been consolidated under one directorship which has been titled Finance 
and Human Resources. The department's role is service. It provides a 
wide range of services for a wide range of requirements affecting 
National Headquarters' operation.

ACCOUNTING DEPARTMENT
     Because of the dramatically increased workload occasioned by the 
Organization's new programs, the Accounting Department has added a 
manager. The manager will be directly involved with the day to day 
operations as well as assisting in the implementation of new financial 
accounting requirements for not-for-profit organizations.
     With a staff of seven people, the Accounting Department provides 
financial reporting services to all levels of the Organization. The 
department processes approximately $60 million in deposits from such 
areas as membership dues, marketing service receipts, insurance program 
premium receipts and Emblem & Supply sales. In addition, nearly 40,000 
documents are originated and/or processed in connection with the 
disbursements of over $25 million authorized in VFW's annual budget.

HUMAN RESOURCES
     In today's work environment, what you are is who you are. Put 
another way, it is the performance of individual employees, doing their 
jobs in a competent and professional manner, that determines the overall 
performance of the Organization. Thus, it is vital that VFW attract and 
keep quality people. To do this, VFW must offer an acceptable work 
environment and competitive benefits. It is the responsibility of the 
Human Resources department to monitor the VFW benefit package to insure 
that it is up to date and cost efficient, as well as to implement the 
benefits and keep employees informed. The department is also responsible 
for payroll administration.
     The VFW employs approximately 180 people in the Kansas City office 
and 80 in the Washington office. Three people administer the Human 
Resources department as well as the retirement program for the VFW 
National Headquarters, Ladies Auxiliary to the VFW and over 20 State 
Departments.

PURCHASING DEPARTMENT
     VFW spends millions of dollars each year on goods and services from 
suppliers all over the country. It is critical to the financial well-
being of the Organization that it obtain the best products at the best 
possible prices. Moreover, it is often important that the products be 
available at the right time, in the right place and in the right 
quantities. The Purchasing department is charged with seeing that the 
Organization's needs are met.
     Careful attention is given to reviewing requests for purchases to 
determine the requirements that the products must meet. An investigation 
is made to identify products meeting those requirements and suppliers 
that can deliver them.
     Most importantly, the Purchasing department works to get the best 
possible price on those products. Effective procurement is important to 
efficient management and the Purchasing department plays an important 
role in this effort.



Audit Report

     The financial statements for the nine months ending May 31, 1996, 
and the Independent Auditor's Report relating thereto, are presented as 
a part of this report on the following four pages. Audited financial 
statements for the year ending Aug. 31, 1996, will be mailed to the 
National Council of Administration and the Department Commanders as soon 
as they are available.


Independent Auditors' Report
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States

     We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheet and 
consolidated statement of Council-designated and undesignated and 
temporarily restricted net assets of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the 
United States and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Foundation (collectively, 
the ``Organization'') as of May 31, 1996 and the related consolidated 
statements of activities and of cash flows for the nine months then 
ended.  These financial statements are the responsibility of the 
Organization's management.  Our responsibility is to express an opinion 
on these financial statements based on our audit.
     We conducted our audit in accordance with generally accepted 
auditing standards.  Those standards require that we plan and perform 
the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial 
statements are free of material misstatement.  An audit includes 
examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and 
disclosures in the financial statements.  An audit also includes 
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made 
by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement 
presentation.  We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for 
our opinion.
     In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present 
fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the 
Organization as of May 31, 1996, and the results of its operations and 
cash flows for the nine months then ended in conformity with generally 
accepted accounting principles.
     As discussed in Note 2 to the financial statements, effective 
September 1, 1995 the Organization changed its method of accounting for 
contributions received to conform with Statement of Financial Accounting 
Standards (``SFAS'') No. 116, changed its financial statement 
presentation to conform with SFAS No. 117 and changed its method of 
accounting for investments to conform with SFAS No. 124.

Kansas City, Missouri
July 15, 1996


             



NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NINE MONTHS ENDED MAY 31, 1996

1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

     The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the 
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (the ``VFW'') and the 
Veterans of Foreign Wars Foundation (the ``Foundation'') (collectively, 
the ``Organization'').  The VFW was incorporated in 1914 and chartered 
by Congress in 1936 for fraternal, patriotic, historical and educational 
purposes and is exempt from Federal income tax under Section 501(c)(19) 
of the Internal Revenue Code. The Foundation was incorporated in 1996 as 
a public benefit corporation to assist disabled veterans and their 
families, promote public attention to the sacrifices and needs of 
veterans, active and reserve military personnel and their families, 
assist veterans with respect to employment and to promote and assist in 
funding programs sponsored by the VFW, its affiliates and other non-
profit groups.  The Foundation has filed for exemption from Federal 
income taxes under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The 
financial statements of the Organization exclude the financial 
statements of the various State Departments and Local Posts of the 
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States as the VFW neither 
controls nor has an economic interest in such entities.

     Basis of Accounting - The financial statements of the Organization 
have been prepared on the accrual basis of accounting and, accordingly, 
reflect all significant receivables, payables and other liabilities.

     Basis of Presentation - The financial statement presentation is in 
accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (``SFAS'') 
No. 117, Financial Statements of Not-for-Profit Organizations.  In 
accordance with SFAS No. 117, the Organization is required to report 
information regarding its financial position and activities according to 
three classes of net assets:  unrestricted net assets, temporarily 
restricted net assets, and permanently restricted net assets, as 
applicable.

     Cash and Cash Equivalents - The Organization considers all 
unrestricted highly liquid investments with an initial maturity of three 
months or less to be cash equivalents.

     Inventories - Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market 
determined using the first-in, first-out method.

     Investments - Investments consist primarily of marketable debt 
securities which are carried at fair value with gains and losses, which 
are available for current operations, included in the statement of 
activities.  See Note 4 regarding Life Membership. Fair values are based 
on quoted market prices or dealer quotes, if available.  If a quoted 
market price is not available, fair value is estimated using quoted 
market prices for similar securities.

     Property and Equipment - Property and equipment are valued at cost 
and depreciated or amortized over the estimated useful life of the 
assets using the straight-line method. The National Memorial building is 
not depreciated as the intent of the Organization is to perpetually 
preserve the historical value of the building.

     Deferred Revenue - Income from membership dues and subscription 
fees is deferred and recognized over the periods to which the dues and 
fees relate.

     Contributions and Member Dues - Contributions received are recorded 
as unrestricted, temporarily restricted, or permanently restricted 
support, depending on the existence and/or nature of donor restrictions, 
if any.

     Contributions that are restricted by the donor are reported as an 
increase in unrestricted net assets if the restriction expires in the 
reporting period in which the contribution is recognized.  All other 
donor-restricted support is reported as an increase in temporarily or 
permanently restricted net assets, depending on the nature of the 
restriction.  When a restriction expires (that is, when a stipulated 
time restriction ends or purpose restriction is accomplished), 
temporarily restricted net assets are reclassified to unrestricted net 
assets and reported in the statement of activities as net assets 
released from restrictions.

     A portion of the Organization's revenue is derived from annual dues 
paid by its members or life membership dues.  Annual dues are collected 
on a calendar year basis and are reflected in revenue ratably over the 
year.  Unearned portions of dues are deferred.  As discussed in Note 4, 
annual dues allocable to the National Headquarters are transferred from 
the Life Membership Fund annually on a per capita basis.

     Expense Allocation - The costs of providing various programs and 
other activities have been summarized on a functional basis in the 
statement of activities.  All costs incurred by the Organization are 
either identified directly as, or allocated to, program or supporting 
services.  Accordingly, certain costs have been allocated among the 
programs and supporting services benefited based on management's 
judgment.  The use of different allocation methodologies could 
significantly affect such estimates.

     For the nine months ended May 31, 1996, the Organization incurred 
joint costs of $10,384,000 for informational materials and activities 
that included fund-raising appeals.  A significant portion of these 
costs relate to the acquisition and development of mailing lists for 
solicitations.  The portion of these costs that are judged by management 
to be educational and informative, veterans service or community service 
and patriotic activities are allocated to program services.  Of those 
costs, $6,170,000 was allocated to program services, $3,864,000 was 
allocated to fund raising activities and $350,000 was allocated to 
management and general expenses.

     Management Estimates - The preparation of financial statements in 
conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires 
management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported 
amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets 
and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported 
amounts of support and revenue and expenses during the reporting period.  
Actual results could differ from those estimates.

2. CHANGE IN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES

     The Organization adopted SFAS No. 116, Accounting for Contributions 
Received and Contributions Made, effective September 1, 1995.  In 
accordance with SFAS No. 116, contributions received are recorded as 
unrestricted, temporarily restricted, or permanently restricted support, 
depending on the existence and/or nature of any donor restrictions.  As 
permitted by SFAS No. 116, the Organization has retroactively applied 
the provisions of this new Statement by restating net assets as of 
August 31, 1995. The cumulative effect of adoption of SFAS No. 116 was 
to increase net assets by $719,000 as of August 31, 1995.  The adoption 
of SFAS No. 116 increased the change in net assets by $62,000 for the 
nine months ended May 31, 1996.

     Effective September 1, 1995, the Organization also adopted SFAS No. 
117.  Under SFAS No. 117, the Organization is required to report 
information regarding its financial position and activities according to 
three classes of net assets: unrestricted net assets, temporarily 
restricted net assets, and permanently restricted net assets. As 
permitted by this statement, the Organization has discontinued its use 
of fund accounting and has, accordingly, reclassified its financial 
statements to present the three classes of net assets required.  The 
Organization does not have any permanently restricted net assets. As a 
result of the adoption of SFAS No. 117, the Life Membership Fund balance 
of $115,303,000 at August 31, 1995 was restated and allocated to a 
liability to the State Departments and Local Posts ($76,869,000) and to 
deferred revenue ($38,434,000).  The adoption of SFAS No. 117 increased 
the change in net assets by $4,462,000 for the nine months ended May 31, 
1996.

     In November 1995, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued 
SFAS No. 124, Accounting for Certain Investments Held by Not-for-Profit 
Organizations, which requires that investments in equity securities with 
readily determinable fair values and all investments in debt securities 
be reported at fair value with gains and losses reported in the 
statement of activities.  This statement also requires the disclosure of 
investment income, net realized gains and losses on investments reported 
at other than fair value, and net gains or losses on investments 
reported at fair value, the basis for determining the carrying amount 
for investments and the aggregate carrying amount of investments by 
major type.  As permitted by SFAS No. 124, the Organization has 
retroactively applied the provisions of this new statement by restating 
net assets as of August 31, 1995. Such restatement increased net assets 
of the National Headquarters, National Publication, Community and 
Veterans Service funds by $490,000 at August 31, 1995.  The adoption of 
SFAS No. 124 decreased the change in net assets by $669,000 for the nine 
months ended May 31, 1996.  Additionally, such restatement also 
increased the carrying value of investments held in the Life Membership 
Fund by $4,152,700 at August 31, 1995 and $1,993,000 at May 31, 1996.  
See Note 4.

3. INVESTMENTS

     Investments at fair value (carrying amount) and amortized cost at 
May 31, 1996 are as follows:
                                               Amortized        Fair
                                                 Cost          Value
Equity securities                             $5,625,207     $5,947,588
Government obligations                       113,463,129    114,859,164
Nongovernment obligations                        246,755        238,335
Cash and securities due in one year           26,625,593     26,896,664

Total                                       $145,960,684   $147,941,751


Investments by fund at May 31, 1996 are as follows:

                                               Amortized         Fair
                                                 Cost           Value
National Headquarters, 
National Publications, 
Community and 
Veteran's Service Fund                       $35,581,433    $35,580,969

Life Membership Fund                         108,900,608    110,893,201
Other Funds - Council designated                 815,876        810,582

Total unrestricted funds                     145,297,917    147,284,752

Temporarily restricted - 
Voice of Democracy and Other Funds               662,767        656,999

Total                                       $145,960,684   $147,941,751


     Interest and dividend income of $ 1,746,992 and net losses 
(including unrealized gains and losses) of $531,564 are included in 
investment income, net in the statement of activities for the nine 
months ended May 31, 1996.  Additionally, interest and dividend income 
of $ 5,724,606 and net losses (including unrealized gains and losses) of 
$2,099,801 are applicable to the Life Membership Fund for the nine 
months ended May 31, 1996.  See Note 4.

4. LIFE MEMBERSHIP

     The Life Membership Fund includes investment income and the 
unexpended fees received from life members of the Organization for 
future distribution of membership dues.  All life member fees and all 
income earned from the investment of such fees are to be used solely for 
the payment of annual amounts to National Headquarters, State 
Departments, and Local Posts on behalf of life members and the 
administrative expenses of the Fund.  Accordingly, a significant portion 
of the Life Membership Fund is ultimately a future obligation to the 
State Departments and Local Posts whose financial statements and 
operations are not controlled by or reflected in the financial 
statements of the Organization and, accordingly, such amounts are 
included in liabilities in the accompanying balance sheet.  Life 
Membership funds which are allocable to the payment of future annual 
National Headquarters dues are included in deferred revenue.  A portion 
of the dues of life members to be received by the National Headquarters 
Fund is required to be used for magazine publishing costs.

     The actuarially determined amount, using a discount rate of 7.5%, 
required to fund the current annual dues payout set by the Life 
Membership committee of $5 per member to each of National Headquarters, 
State Departments and Local Posts for life members, determined as of May 
31, 1996, was approximately $119,000,000.

     The following summary represents the changes in the Life Membership 
fund during the nine months ended May 31, 1996:



             


5. DESIGNATED NET ASSETS

     The National Headquarters and National Publication Funds are 
resources of the Organization that provide the funds necessary to 
operate the Organization and publish the VFW Magazine.  The Community 
and Veterans Service Fund consists of net revenues of the National 
insurance programs and the Buddy Poppy department and expenses of the 
Organization's various community and veteran service activities.

     Additionally, certain unrestricted net assets have been designated 
by the National Council of Administration (the ``Council'') for specific 
purposes and are included in the statement of net assets.  Such 
designated funds include the Advertising and Promotion Fund which was 
established during fiscal year 1995 with a $4,000,000 transfer from the 
National Headquarters Fund.  This fund represents internally restricted 
funds to be used during fiscal years 1995 through 1997 to cover costs 
associated with the Organization's title sponsorship of the VFW Senior 
Championship golf tournament. Unexpended Council-designated funds will 
be transferred back to the National Headquarters Fund when the Council 
determines that the funds are no longer needed.

6. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

     The Organization has a defined benefit pension plan covering 
substantially all of its employees who have completed certain minimum 
service requirements.  The Organization's funding policy is to 
contribute at least the amount required under the Employee Retirement 
Income Security Act.  Employees of several VFW State Departments and the 
Ladies Auxiliary to the VFW also participate in the plan.

     Contributions of $623,295 have been made to the plan for the nine 
months ended May 31, 1996.  The following table sets forth the plan's 
funded status and amounts recognized in the Organization's financial 
statements at the measurement date, May 31, 1996:

Actuarial present value of benefit obligations -
  Accumulated benefit obligation, 
  including vested benefits of                             $11,606,000
                                                           $13,629,000
Projected benefit obligation for service rendered to date  $17,297,000
Plan assets at fair value as of May 31, 1996                19,627,000
Plan assets in excess of projected benefit obligation        2,330,000
Unrecognized net gain from past experience
  different from that assumed                               (1,384,000)
Unamortized prior service cost not yet recognized 
  in pension cost                                            1,484,000
Unrecognized net asset as of June 1, 1987 
  being recognized over 15 years                              (845,000)

     Prepaid pension cost included in prepaid 
       and deferred expenses                                $1,585,000

Net periodic pension cost for 1996 included the 
  following components:
  Service cost - benefits earned during the period            $816,000
  Prior service cost
  Interest cost on projected benefit obligation              1,159,000
  Actual return on plan assets                              (1,510,000)
  Net amortization and deferral                                (21,000)

     Net periodic pension cost                                $444,000


     The weighted-average discount rate and rate of increase in future 
compensation levels used in determining the actuarial present value of 
the projected benefit obligation were 7.5 percent and 5.0 percent, 
respectively.  The expected long-term rate of return on assets was 8.5 
percent.

     The Organization also has a plan which provides medical and dental 
benefits for retired employees. No benefits are provided for spouses or 
dependents.  Retirees are eligible for the plan if they have at least 
fifteen years of employment service (service with at least 1,000 hours 
annually), the employee is eligible for retirement under the 
requirements of the VFW Retirement Plan, and the retiree moves directly 
from active to retired status.  Employees who retired prior to November 
1, 1994 will only be provided the medical portion of the benefits.  The 
amount provided to the plan by the Organization is limited to an amount 
equal to 80% of the 1995 premiums.

     The following sets forth the plan's funded status at May 31, 1996 
and the amounts recognized in the Organization's financial statements 
using the plan's measurement date, August 31, 1995:


Actuarial present value of benefit obligations - 
Accumulated benefit obligation, 
including vested benefits of                   $321,483     $ 1,018,367

Net periodic post-retirement benefit cost for 1996 included the 
following 

  components:
  Service cost - benefits earned during the period          $    54,048
  Interest cost                                                  74,246
  Amortization of prior service cost                             67,616

       Net periodic post-retirement cost                    $   195,910

  Fair value of plan assets at August 31, 1995              $ 1,066,077


     The weighted average discount rate used in determining the 
actuarial present value of the accumulated benefit obligation was 7.5 
percent.  During fiscal year 1995, the Organization deposited $1,066,077 
in a separate bank account, pending establishment of a formal trust.  
Accordingly, such asset and liability are not reflected in the financial 
statements.
     The Organization has a severance pay plan which provides benefits 
to employees, upon termination, who have been employed for at least ten 
years.  The estimated liability for such benefits (vested and non-
vested) is $824,000.  During 1995, the Organization deposited $537,707 
in a separate bank account to fund the vested portion of such liability, 
pending establishment of a formal trust.  The unfunded amount is 
reflected as a liability in the financial statements.
     The Organization also has a contributory savings plan (a 401(k) 
plan) available to employees.  The Organization makes contributions to 
the plan based upon guidelines set forth in the plan.  Total 
contributions made by the Organization for the nine months ended May 31, 
1996 were $246,382.

7. POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE

     Delegates to the 80th National Convention established the Veterans 
of Foreign Wars Political Action Committee (``PAC'').  Contributions 
from Posts and Auxiliaries from inception to May 31, 1996 for payment of 
administrative expenses of the PAC totaled $1,689,269.  Expenditures for 
administrative expenses from inception to May 31, 1996 totaled 
$1,746,249. The excess of expenditures over contributions received of 
$56,980 is included in miscellaneous receivables of the National 
Headquarters Fund.  Contributions from individuals are recorded in the 
records of the PAC, rather than the records of the Office of the 
Quartermaster General.

8. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

     In connection with its Buddy Poppy program, the Organization has 
entered into a contract with a manufacturing company to purchase a 
specified amount of raw material each year at a fixed price through 
1999.  The estimated total commitment at May 31, 1996 is $1,276,000 
payable in approximately equal annual installments through 1999.

     The Organization has been named as a defendant in several legal 
actions.  Management of the Organization, based in part on advice from 
the Organization's legal counsel, believes that all such matters will be 
resolved with no material adverse effect to the financial statements.

