THE VFW LEADER

Official Publication of the N.C. Department

VFW of North Carolina PO Box 25337 Raleigh, NC 27611-5337
Non-Profit Org US Postage PAID Rermit No. 1838 Raleigh N.C.

EH

H OLD T E FUTU RE

Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States

Inside: Pg. Pg. Pg. Pg. 2 3 4 9 Letters Officers Columns Veterans News President's Column

2009

Pg. 10 - Membership Benefits Pg. 11 - Facebook Pg. 12 - Roasterie Coffee

VOLUME NO. 69

THE VFW LEADER

JUL/AUG/SEP 2011

Paws 4 Vets Honors NCVFW Comrade

Paws 4 Vets, one of the country's leading organizations that supplies psychiatric service and assistance dogs to soldiers and veterans with Post Traumatic Service Disorder (PTSD) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), has initiated a special campaign in the name of a VFW North Carolina comrade to raise money to train more dogs for needy veterans. The campaign has been named in honor of deceased Army First Sergeant John R. Champion of Beaufort Post 2401, who committed suicide at the post on July 6, 2009. 1SG Champion, who spent his entire Army career in either the 82nd Airborne Division or in the Army Special Forces, had PTSD, which was diagnosed as the underlying cause of his suicide. Lisa Taitt, the main trainer of soldiers training the dogs, visited Department Headquarters recently to explain the program. Her husband is an active duty Army soldier currently stationed at Fort Bragg. "The dogs are initially trained by prison inmates," exclaimed Taitt. "Then they are assigned to soldiers at a Wounded Warrior facility to them get used to going to public places with their masters." Taitt began working for the program three years ago when her husband was stationed at Fort Stewart, Georgia, and she worked with soldiers at that Wounded Warrior Battalion and with the inmates at Jessup Prison. She is now introducing the program to the Wounded Warrior Battalions at Fort Bragg and Camp Lejeune. "The trained animals are also used as mobility dogs for physically injured veterans," she added. "And if they don't pass the rigorous tests in order to become a psychiatric service and assistance dog, they are assigned as emotional rehabilitation dogs for veterans." This type of trained dog was the special project of Past State Ladies Auxiliary President Deborah Crowder several years ago, and can frequently be seen in the nationwide newspaper comic strip "Funky Winkerbean." Funky's cousin, Wally, an Iraq and Afghanistan veteran, uses his dog, Buddy, to help him live a normal life after combat. The current program, which hopes to sell 30,000 raffle tickets, specifically honors Comrade John Champion. It came about because Champion's sister worked with the same type of dogs when she was an inmate herself. She learned of Champion's untimely death while still incarcerated. She now works for Paws 4 Vets by helping to train these valuable animals. The raffle being conducted by Paws 4 Vets is an online charity raffle. In order to participate, individuals should go to www.vfw.charityraffles.org and look in the top right hand corner. Type your post number in the block in that corner, and then proceed to enter the number of tickets you wish to buy and your credit card information. The website will email individuals their receipt. Posts may also participate, if they wish, by buying a block of tickets and then reselling the tickets to comrades, auxiliary members, or the general public. First prize for the winning ticket to the individual is $50,000, and there are 516 lesser cash awards, as well. However, posts also win in this raffle, as the winning post gets $7500 (when the raffle is over) and 30% value of all tickets sold in their name. The company Paws 4 Vets is a spinoff of Paws 4 People, begun 12 years ago by Terry Henry. It is a taxexempt, non-profit 501c3 organization, and its website is www.helpkyria.eom.

Changes to the VFW National By-Laws

Votes at the 111th VFW National Convention, held in August in San Antonio, Texas, have resulted in several important changes to the VFW National By-Laws and Manual of Procedure. These changes will materially effect the operations of the Department of North Carolina, and all other departments, districts, and posts in the nation. First, the Convention floor voted to adopt "subscription dues." This system is the same type used by magazine subscriptions, where a subscriber's annual payment starts from the time it is paid and is not hooked to a calendar year. In the case of the VFW, the dues year is currently from 1 January to 31 December. This does not change no matter when a comrade pays his dues. Under the new system, a comrade who first becomes a member in April (for example) will have his membership year go from 1 May to 30 April. He will then receive series of reminders during "his" membership year, worked by a system yet to be devised by National Headquarters. Posts, districts, and departments will be enabled to see whose membership ends when, so that they will be able to contact those comrades to urge them to "re-up." The All-State and All-American post and district membership requirements will be based on a set date, like they are now, but it won't necessarily be the calendar year. Also, under this system, a new member will not get possible credit for up to 18 months membership, such as he gets today if he first joins in July. Information on implementing this new subscription dues system will be forthcoming from National. Another change is to the structure of the National Council of Administration. Currently, North and South Carolina share a council member, and is a comrade who is elected for two years :from one state, and then a different comrade elected for two years from the other state. Under the new system, each department (state) in the VFW will have its own council member. Instead of each council member having one vote on the Council, the number of votes per representative will be based on the number of comrades in that state. Also, terms of council members will gradually be increased across the country to four years instead of two. A significant result of this change will be a savings of travel funds for National Headquarters, and a more equitable distribution of votes. A third change is the establishment of three permanently-sitting committees at the National level. These will be the National Veterans Service Advisory Committee, the National Committee on Awards and Citations, and the Trust Fund Committee. These three committees will establish continuity and advise the Commander-in-Chief on the practice and procedures for representation by service officers, the determination of authorized awards or citations, and the custody of monies provided by donors. Two important proposals that were defeated by the Convention floor were any change to the current Men's Auxiliary structure and participation, and a change to when all officers at post, district, and department level would take command. Those two systems will remain the same as currently.

Department of North Carolina To Receive Widow's Bequest

The Department of North Carolina has been informed by VFW National Headquarters that it will receive a bequest from a VFW widow in the amount of $600,000. Patsy Lee Clark, the widow of VFW Life Member James Stanley Clark of Durham Post 2740, left various bequests to many veterans' organizations that do good work for soldiers, veterans, and their families. Comrade Clark died in November 2006, and Mrs.. Clark passed away last April. National Quartermaster General Larry Maher told the department headquarters that Mrs.. Clark directed that the funds be forwarded to the VFW Foundation in Kansas City, and be distributed from there. Quartermaster General Maher stated the department should begin receiving payments after the next National Council of Administration meeting, who will decide how it is to be distributed. Also included in Mrs. Clark's generosity apparently are the VFW National Home for Children in Eaton Rapids, Michigan, which will receive $600,000, the Disabled American Veterans for transporting veterans back and forth to VA Medical Centers, which will receive $200,000, the USO for supporting soldiers in airports and other venues, which will receive $200,000, and the even the Durham Post 2740, which is slated to receive $5000. Mrs. Clark reportedly lived very simply after Comrade Clark's death, and nobody suspected she had an estate worth over $5,000,000. She stipulated in her bequest to the department that the money be used to support veterans services. "This is a very important moment in the history of the Department of North Carolina," said State Adjutant/ Quartermaster Bruce Edwards. "We currently spend over $80,000 annually to operate our veterans' service office in Winston-Salem under State Service Officer Cleo Summers, and only receive about $25,000 from VFW National Headquarters to offset part of that cost. Of course, we are grateful for all funds received from National to support our North Carolina veterans, but this bequest will certainly help the Department's financial position while simultaneously helping our Tarheel State veterans. "

Visit Your Post's Website

Every post in North Carolina has their own website. It takes a minute to visit your post's site. Just log in to: www.vfwwebcom.org/northcarolina

Members of SC Chapter 3 of Rolling Thunder regularly visit Calabash VFW Post 7288 to make sure there's a new POW/MIA flag flying and to have a proper dedication of the banner. This time, though, the visit by the two dozen motorcycle riders followed a heavy thunderstorm on Friday, August 5th and they came with heavy hearts. During the brief early evening ceremony they fulfilled their mission of dedicating the new POW/MIA flag that is proudly flown in front of the Post but especially touching was a moment of silence for Barry Livingston, a Chapter member and Vietnam veteran who passed away less than an hour earlier following a long battle with cancer. The Rolling Thunder organization is made up of volunteers who donate their time to making sure those missing from all wars are remembered and that future veterans are protected from being left behind.

Page 2 THE VFW LEADER

The VFW Leader is published quarterly by the Department of North Carolina Veterans of Foreign Wars at 917 New Bern Avenue, Raleigh, North Carolina. Editor........................Bruce Edwards News stories, photographs and other matters for publication should be addressed to Editor, VFW Leader, P.O. Box 25337, Raleigh, N.C. 27611. Correspondence regarding subscription and circulation should be addressed to VFW Leader, P.O. Box 25337, Raleigh, N.C. 27611.

JUL/AUG/SEP 2011
Dear Editor,

THE VFW LEADER

City, Charlotte, Cherry Point, Davidson County, Eno River, Nathaniel Greene, Havelock, Jacksonville, Mecklenburg, New Bern, New River, Raleigh Durham, Randolph , County, and Swansboro. Young Marine units are community-based programs lead by dedicated adult volunteers. Many of these volunteers are former, retired, active duty, or reserve Marines who believe passionately that the values they learned as Marines had a positive affect on them. It is through these caring adults that Young Marines learn the inner values of Honor, Courage and Commitment. Adult volunteers are individually screened by the National Headquarters based on background information and recommendations provided with each person's registration. For more information feel free to go to the national website at www. youngmarines.com or contact me at: commander@gngym.org, 336263-3697 Thank you for your time. Unit Commander, Nathaniel Greene Young Marines Regimental Commander 2nd NC Regiment, Young Marines

"Department Headquarters normal operating hours 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday thru Friday. Closed for holidays: New Years Day, Martin Luther King's Birthday, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day."

Letters to the Editor

Logan Nicole Beyer, 5201 Trent Woods Drive, New Bern, NC 28562, Arendell Parrott Academy, Voice of Democracy 3rd place national finalist To all the veterans in the VFW North Carolina State Department and their corresponding Ladies Auxiliary: coming. The food was great, the speakers were entertaining, and I so much appreciate being invited to join you. But there is so much more that I feel indebted to you for! Thank you for sponsoring the Voice of Democracy program as a whole. Thank you for choosing me to put on that airplane to Washington, DC, for what became one of the most memorable and monumental weeks in my life. Thank you for all the opportunities you have created in my life and that I know you will continue to create in the lives of students like me. And thank you for your service to the United States of America. We truly are the land of the free because of the brave, and the brave is you. God bless you all and all of your families, and may He continue to bless this great nation!

gram is affectionately called "Boot Camp." The youth learn general subjects such as history, customs and courtesies, close order drill, physical fitness, and military rank structure. After graduating from Young Marine "Boot Camp", the youth have the opportunity to learn more new skills, earn rank, wear the Young Marine uniform The Young Marines is a youth and work toward ribbon awards. education and service program Young Marines earn ribbons for for boys and girls, ages 8 through achievement in areas such as leadcompletion of high school. The ership, community service, swimYoung Marines promotes the ming, academic excellence, first mental, moral, and physical devel- aid and drug resistance educaopment of its members. The pro- tion. gram focuses on character building, leadership, and promotes a The Young Marine Obligation, healthy, drug-free lifestyle. The Creed, and our core values of Young Marines is the focal point leadership, Discipline, and for the U.S. Marine Corps' Youth Teamwork, helps us in mainDrug Demand Reduction efforts. taining and holding true to our motto of "Strengthening the lives The mission of the Young Marines of America's youth". is to positively impact America's future by providing quality youth Since the Young Marines' humble development programs for boys beginnings, in 1958, with one and girls that nurtures and devel- unit and a handful of boys, the ops its members into responsible organization has grown to over citizens who enjoy and promote a 240 units with 10,000 youth healthy, drug-free lifestyle. and 3,000 adult volunteers in 46 states, the District of Columbia, Upon joining a local Young and, Germany, Japan and affiliMarine unit, youth undergo a 26- ates in a host of other countries. hour orientation program, gener- In North Carolina there are 15 ally spread out over several weekly Young Marine units in North meetings. This orientation pro- Carolina. Camp Lejeune, Capital I was reading the recent copy of the VFW Leader, when I came across an article on the Sea Cadets. While this is an outstanding youth organization, I would like to bring to our attention another youth organization - The Young Marines.

Partnership for Medicare Benefits

SUBJECT: Medicare Chairman per year may pay more according to a sliding scale (call us if you Semi-Annual Report have questions) 1. The VFW VA/NC Partnership was established in 2005 to provide b. Medicare Part A (In- Patient a one-stop source for all things Hospital) Deductible Increase: Medicare. Since then, we have From $1100 to $1132 been an advocate for thousands of comrades and sisters in helping c. Medicare Part B Annual guide them in choosing health Deductible Increase: From $155 and drug plans that best fits their to $162 needs. More importantly, we also provide 24/7 service working d. Annual Election Period Dates medical/prescription their behalf. Change! Medicare Advantage (including prescription drugs) 2. Changes to Medicare for 2011- enrollment period has changed 2012 season (2012 Premiums/ from Nov 15th -Dec 31st to: Oct 15th to Dec 7th each year. It is very Deductibles not yet released). important to get this word out to a. Medicare Part B Premium our members since many over the Increase: From $110.50 to $115.40 years have waited until the last per month (normally deducted week of December to call us for from your social security check). help. If they do this year, we will Some people will remain at the be unable to help them because $110.50 rate. Single member the enrollment window closes on earning over $85K/married with 7 December. Being stuck in the combined earnings over $170K wrong plan can be very costly as they change each year. 3. Armed Forces Benefit Association (AFBA) provides free $1000 Life Insurance policy to First Responders! AFBA, known well by military personnel, is a non-profit association started after WWII by General Eisenhower to provide benefits for active duty, guard, and reserve military. Until recently, benefits were available only to military personnel, but as a result of the 911 Commission, AFBA is now extending their benefits to active Police/Fire/EMS first responders. Call Comrade Charlie Sloan or Jeff Magg anytime at 1-866-6332226 for assistance. Charles E. Sloan Dept of Virginia Partnership Chairman

Words cannot fully express the gratitude I feel towards you. Not only have you served this nation and protected the liberties that we all hold dear, but you have touched my life so deeply on a very personal level. I suppose the first of many things I need to say thank you for is the Voice of Democracy State Banquet that you sponsored on February 4, 2011. Coming to our state's capital on a Friday was certainly an exciting way to start the weekend, and everyone I met in the time I Sincerely, Logan spent there was so kind and wel-

TAPS

The newly renovated and painted VFW State Recruiting Trailer is availabale for sign out and pick up by contacting the State VFW Headquarters at 919-828-5058. It comes complete with recruiting documents and patriotic giveaways.

THE VFW LEADER IS ONLINE!

YOU CAN NOW READ AND PRINT THE ISSUES OF THE VFW LEADER BY GOING TO THE DEPARTMENTS COMPUTER WEBSITE AT WWW.VFWWEBCOM.ORG/NORTHCAROLINA IF YOU NO LONGER FEEL IT NECESSARY TO RECEIVE A PAPER COPY OF THE VFW LEADER IN THE MAIL, PLEASE FILL OUT THIS FORM AND MAIL IT TO THE DEPT. AT PO BOX 25337, RALEIGH, NC 27611. YOU WILL BE ABLE TO READ THE SAME NEWS ONLINE, AND THE FEWER PAPER COPIES MAILED WILL SAVE THE DEPT. BOTH PRINT AND MAIL COSTS! NAME_________________________________________________________________________________ ADDRESS_____________________________________________________________________________ CITY ________________________________________________________________________________ _ STATE__________________ZIP_____________________________ THATS
RIGHT!

THE VFW LEADER

COMMANDERS COLUMN
that we draw from. They realize, as do we, that the larger the group we can pull from the larger we can grow our membership. As we enjoy the many benefits that come from our differences we have to be mindful of one thing: to always be respectful of the diversity of different opinions. We often talk about membership and attracting the younger generation to our ranks. If we don't respect the diversity of their opinions we will never retain their membership. We all joined the VFW to continue our service to the Nation and our fellow veterans. We need to be mindful of that when we conduct our business. New and different ideas are not necessarily bad ideas. As long as we achieve the desired outcome, what difference does it make whose idea we use to get there. We should never discount the opinion of a comrade whose motivation is to help veterans. Encouragement, patience, and most of all compromise are the best ways to deal with our differences. Differences of opinion and our willingness to embrace them are part of what makes us so great. It gives us a dynamic not every group enjoys. We should do our best to welcome people of all backgrounds into our membership, along with their diverse opinions. It can only make us stronger and better able to complete our mission of service.

JUL/AUG/SEP 2011

Page 3
have traveled quite a bit throughout the State. As you probably know, we have a few problems within the VFW and Ladies Auxiliary. Maybe the problem is that we are overworked by not having enough of our members to attend meetings and participate in our programs. We need more members to take time out once a Month to attend Post meetings. I feel it would take some of the pressure off of the few that are doing all of the work. I would like to encourage each of you to become more active in your Post and its activities. Please try to attend your next meeting and remember the purpose of the VFW and Ladies Auxiliary, is to assist all Veterans and their families. The only way to accomplish our goals is to work together in harmony. Perhaps I am over-stepping my boundary, but I realize something has to be done to keep the VFW and Ladies Auxiliary from losing so many members. If you have problems within your Post and Auxiliary, if possible resolve them locally before they get out-ofhand. Make sure you attend your next meeting, and take a member with you. Yours in Comradeship, Ted Briggs, Sr. Vice Commander

SR. VICE COMMANDER COLUMN

JASON SCHOOLCRAFT
Part of what makes the VFW so great is its diversity. Walk into any post and you will find veterans from all walks and backgrounds. Our ranks include men and women of all races, creed, and origins spanning conflicts from WWII through Operations Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan) and Iraqi Freedom (Iraq). Our membership literally encompasses every piece of the American fabric. With our diverse membership comes a wealth of ideas and experiences that can help to move the VFW successfully into the future. We should embrace the blessings of diversity that we enjoy. Many organizations envy the large pool of members

TED H. BRIGGS
Hi Comrades and Sisters, This has been a busy year so far, I

JR. VICE COMMANDER COLUMN

this office to the best my ability and always seminating information to all of you. But don't forget, it also provides you the means strive to exceed your expectations. to communicate with the Department. This My travels around the state these past two-way communication is key to our conmonths brought me in contact with several tinued success. Shared information, your posts and districts. I am impressed with ideas, and teamwork, help us expand our the dedication and focus on our mission capabilities, and allows our membership that I see everywhere. Programs like Voice to grow. of Democracy, Patriots Pen, and Teacher of the Year are gaining interest. Veterans Teamwork and two-way communication Assistance and Community Service are also will create the foundation that makes pergaining momentum. I believe that we will forming our mission a shared experience. out-perform last years efforts. Well done, It also promises that our organization will achieve continued success in the future. Comrades. Lets make this happen. ERNIE ALLIS If there is any place for improvement, it is the need for increased attendance at Ernie Allis Comrades: meetings. This need for representation and I want to thank the membership for giving attendance includes Post meetings, District Jr. Vice Commander me the honor to serve as your Junior Vice meetings, and C of A's. These meetings are Commander. I will perform the duties of the primary means and methods of dis-

FROM YOUR CHAPLAIN

A. G. PARKER
Hey Children!! All is weill! Looking forward to seeing you in Raleigh! Lov' ya!! A little bit Frances and The Chap

SUPPORT YOUR VFW

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JUL/AUG/SEP 2011

THE VFW LEADER

VFW Joins in Houston National Cemetery Censorship Lawsuit

KANSAS CITY, MO, July 1, 2011 - Last Year's National Commander of America's largest and oldest major combat veterans' organization is appalled over allegations of religious censorship at one of the nation's national cemeteries, calling it a case of "bureaucracy running amok." VFW, American Legion, and The National Memorial Ladies over allegations of religious hostility and unlawful censorship by the VA and its director of the Houston National Cemetery. "They've told the VFW and the American Legion that they cannot have prayer during the burial services of our veterans, unless "This is a point in case of bureauthe family requests it in writing cracy...or rather, a classic example Texas-based Liberty Institute and submits the prayer for preof a bureaucrat running amok. has filed suit on behalf of the approval," said Liberty Institute In spite of VA policy, the cemetery director is making up her own rules and has imposed hurtful, unilateral restrictions of her own choosing," said Richard L. Eubank, the Immediate Past National Commander of the 2.1 million -member Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. and its Auxiliaries. general counsel Jeff Mateer. The VA, meanwhile, insists its national cemeteries welcome appropriate religious recitations. The "VA values and respects every veteran and their family's right to a burial service that honors their faith tradition," said Keith Ethridge, director of VA's National Chaplain Center. The Houston cemetery superintendent has declined to speak to the media, despite numerous requests. "Generations of patriotic Americans have fought, bled and died to help defend the U.S. Constitution - that great document provides and guarantees fundamental rights of religious expression and freedom of speech. Those basic tenets are clearly being violated at the cemetery and that simply cannot be tolerated," concluded Eubank.

Veterans News Meaning of The Draped Coffin

VA Extends Coverage for Gulf War Veterans: Veterans of the first Gulf War, as well as current operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, now have a smoother path toward receiving health care benefits and disability compensation for nine diseases associated with their military service. A final regulation published in the Federal Register relieves veterans of the burden of proving these diseases are service-related: Brucellosis, Campy, lobacter jejuni, Coxiella Burnetii (Q fever),' Malaria, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Nontyphoid Saimollella, Shigella, Visceral leishmaniasis and West Nile virus. Shinseki added the new presumptions after reviewing a 2006 National Academy of Sciences Institute of Medicine report on the long-term health effects of certain diseases suffered among Gulf War veterans. He also extended the presumptions to veterans of Afghanistan, based on NAS findings that the nine diseases are prevalent there, as well. The new presumptions apply to veterans who served ~ Southwest Asia beginning on or after the start of Operation Desert Shield on August 2, 1990, through Operation Desert Storm to the present, including the current conflict in Iraq. Veterans who served in Afghanistan on or after September 19,2001, also qualify. Veterans' Benefits Act of 2010 Passes Senate: The Senate passed a comprehensive veterans' benefits package now headed to the White House for the president's signature. If signed into law, this bill will expand insurance options for disabled veterans, upgrade compensation benefits and employment protections, authorize VA construction projects, and allow VA to keep using private physicians to quickly and accurately provide veterans with disability evaluations. The Veterans' Benefits Act of 2010 (H.R. 3219, as amended), includes the following: . Raises an automobile assistance benefit for disabled veterans from $11,000 to $18,900. . Authorizes federal grants to provide job training, counseling, placement, and child care services to homeless women veterans and homeless veterans with children. . Substantially increases the maximum levels of supplemental insurance for totally I disabled veterans, as well 'as Veterans' Group Life Insurance and Veterans' Mortgage Life Insurance.' . Provides retroactive Service members' Group Life Insurance benefits for troops .who were traumatically injured between October 7,2001 and November 30, 2005, regardless of where their injury occurred. .Clarifies that the Uniformed Service Employment and Re~employment Rights Act prohibits wage discrimination against members of the Armed Forces. New Montgomery GI Bill Rates Announced: The VA released this Fiscal Year 2011 Montgomery GI Bill payment rates. This year the MGIB rates Increased by 4% to ! $1,426 a month, making the total value of the older GI Bill program over $51K (for 36 months) for those who have not started using their benefit. Unlike the Post 911 GI Bill, the MGIB rates for full-time, three-quarter, half-time and less than half-time are relatively straightforward. A student veteran carrying a full load (normally 12 semester hour units) earns the full monthly payment rate of $1,426 while the half time student would get half that amount ($713). VA Distributing Disability Benefits to Vietnam Vets: The VA has begun distributing disability benefits to Vietnam Veterans who qualify for compensation under recently liberalized rules for Agent Orange exposure. Up to 200,000 Vietnam Veterans may be eligible to receive VA disability compensation for medical conditions associated with Agent Orange. Veterans interested in applying for disability compensation based on chronic b-cellleukemias, Parkinson's disease or ischemic heart disease, should visit the Agent Orange Fast Track Claims Processing System or call 1-800-8271000.

All Americans should be given this lesson. Those who think that America is an arrogant nation should really reconsider that thought. Our founding fathers used God's word and teachings to establish our Great Nation and I think it's high time Americans get re-educated about this nation's history. Pass it along and be proud of the country we live in and even more proud of those who serve to protect our. 'GOD GIVEN' rights and freedoms. I hope you take the time to read this... to understand what the flag-draped coffin really means. Here is how to understand the flag that laid upon it, and is surrendered to so many widows and widowers. Have you ever noticed the Honor Guard pays meticulous attention to correctly folding the United States of America flag 13 times? You probably thought it was to symbolize the original 13 colonies, but we learn something new every day! The 1st fold of the flag is a symbol of life. The 2nd fold is a symbol of the belief in eternal life. The 3rd fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veterans departing the ranks who gave a portion of their lives for the defense of the country to attain peace throughout the world. The

4th fold represents the weaker nature, for as American citizens trusting in God, it is to Him we turn in times of peace, as well as in time of war, for His divine guidance. The 5th fold is a tribute to the country, for in the words of Stephen Decatur, 'Our Country, in dealing with other countries, may she always be right; but it is still our country, right or wrong.' The 6th fold is for where people's hearts lie. It is with their heart that they pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for all. The 7th fold is a tribute to its Armed Forces, for it is through the Armed Forces that they protect their country and their flag against all her enemies, whether they be found within or without the boundaries of their republic. The 8th fold is a tribute to the one who entered into the valley of the shadow of death, that we ought see the light of day. The 9th fold is a tribute to womanhood and Mothers, For it has been through their faith, their love, loyalty and 'devotion that the character of the men and women who have made this country great has been moulded. The 10th fold is a tribute to the father, for he, too, has given his sons and daughters for the defense of their country since

they were first born. The 11th fold represents the lower portion of the seal I ~ of King David and King Solomon and glorifies in the Hebrews' eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. The 12th fold represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in the Christians' eyes, God the Father, the Son and Holy Spirit. The 13th fold, or when the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost reminding them of their nation's motto, 'In God We Trust.' After the flag is completely folded and tucked in, it takes on the appearance of a cocked hat, ever reminding us of the soldiers who served under General George Washington, and the Sailors and Marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones, who were followed by their comrades and shipmates in the Armed Forces of the United States, preserving for them the rights, privileges and freedoms they enjoy today. There are some traditions and ways of doing things that have deep meaning. In the future, you'll see flags folded and now you will know why. Share this with the children you love, and all others who love, what is referred to as the symbol of Liberty and Freedom.

Opposing View on Free Speech: Vulgarity is Not a Message

Other countries regulate public speech. The First Amendment prohibits such laws here. VFW holds dear and cherishes the First October 06, 2010 Amendment and the right of USA TODAY By Richard L every citizen to express himEubank self freely. While in uniform, VFW members have fought in every war and conflict to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution: They, better than most, know that most Americans have inherited the luxury of freedom while not having accomplished anything to earn it. USA TO DAY's VIEW: Does First Amendment protect protests at military funerals? But the media are wrong to confuse freedom of expression in the Snyder case. The Phelpses did not happen to picket within sight of Matthew Snyder's funeral. They announced their intention to hijack the event. They stood at the church entrance, forcing the procession to reroute, and - contrary to media reports - they were still THE MEDIA ARE WRONG TO CONFUSEFREEDOM OF EXPRESSION IN THE SNYDER CASE fewer than 300 feet away from mourners. They published an insult filled "Epic" about the Snyder family. Albert Snyder was not a passerby who happened to dislike what he heard; he was the victim of harassment. Second, no one watching the Phelpses' funeral protest would have understood their "message." The Phelpses believe that American soldiers die because of the country's tolerance of homosexuality: But their signs didn't say that. They said, "You're Going to Hell" and "Thank God for Dead Soldiers" and depicted males engaging in anal intercourse. There is no "message" here, only vulgarity and insults. Third, Matthew Snyder was not gay. No one in his family holds public office or is outspoken on gay rights. The Phelpses randomly picked the Snyders. Shielding their conduct from liability gives them free rein to show up at any funeral spouting anti-gay epithets and to write hatefilled tirades about any person. The First Amendment does not protect such arbitrary persecution. Finally, the Snyder case is not about whether the government can prohibit the Phelpses from protesting. Albert Snyder asks merely that he be compensated for harm. Snyder presented evidence that the Phelpses' conduct made him vomit, interfered with his mourning process and worsened his diabetes. The First Amendment may exist to protect unpopular speech, but private lawsuits exist so that those who cause injury will be held accountable to their victims. If we deprive these victims of legal recourse, they may seek retribution in ways that are far less palatable. Richard L. Eubank is Past National Commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States.

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JUL/AUG/SEP 2011

THE VFW LEADER

THE VFW LEADER PRESIDENT'S COLUMN

are working hard with Auxiliaries to address their concerns and insure they are in good working order. Others are working on new Auxiliaries. If you can help my Chief of Staff, please contact her. It's all about team work.
BARBARA ICARD By now you should have

JUL/AUG/SEP 2011

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Teacher of the Year Award

I would like to reflect on a couple outstanding events. The first event is the Department training session - ''The Flying Squadron." At this time I want to express to the Veteran's of Foreign Wars my appreciation for inviting the Ladies Auxiliary to this session. It is always an honor to work beside our Comrades it also gave the ladies an opportunity to have a one on one workshop and time to discuss problems and solutions. By now most of you have had your District meetings. I hope that you have received allot of information. Some of you have had a school of instruction. If not, you need to have one soon. The other event was my official visit to Durham VA Hospital, at which I gave our annual donation. It was received by Dr. John Shelburne, Chief of Staff. Our Durham VAVS Rep set up my visit and was their with another volunteer. Ronni Miller; Director of Volunteers, gave us a tour of the hospital and nursing facility. Our donation this year will go to female veterans care which is in tune my project "Aiding And Assisting Female Veterans." We had a wonderful afternoon. Thank you Ronni.

already gotten your information out to the schools about Voice Of Democracy, Patriot's Pen and Teacher of the Year. You should be available to help your District/ Post to get judges. Be on time. September & October are packed with lots of work. September the 1st you should have helped your Post judging for Buddy Poppy King and/ or Queen', September has been designated as "Suicide Awareness" (The Teardrop Program) month. As we roll out this program to the public do not forget the other programs such as: honoring Gold Star Families and holding tributes for our POWs and MIAs. There is one other issue that weighs heavy on my mind, and that is Homeless Veterans in our State. I have read articles in the newspaper, Is their anything we can do for them? I find it very alarming that we can not, or will not, take care of our men and women who served for us. Please pitch in and help in your community.

District 15 Commander J. Dean Harris presents North Carolina Teacher of the Year Saundra Busic of Sparta with the department certificate.

National Childrens Home Cottage

The North Carolina Cottage at the National Home for Children, taken this fall.

Membership Eligibility

I express my appreciation to all Ladies Auxiliary/ Men's Auxiliary/VFW Members that participated at The Jubilee House for Homeless Female Veterans in Fayetteville. It makes me proud to As I am writing this I am belong to such a great preparing to go to the organization. National Convention. I am truly excited about I give my utmost gratbeing a part of the itude to all your hard events. We are working work so far. with many Auxiliaries through out the State. "United for Peace" My Chief of Staff, along Barbara Icard with many PDPs and Auxiliary members,

Post 891 Surgeon and State Certified Recruiter Kenneth Towe discusses membership eligibility with a member of the 105th Military Police Battalion, of the NC National Guard. The 105th had recently returned from deployment to Afghanistan, and were unpacking personal and unit Supplies at the Army in Asheville.

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Members of Sparta Post 7034 celebrate the opening of the state's newest Blue Star Memorial Highway. First row: Lonnie Joines, Jim Hudson, David Busic, Phil Truitt, Frank Hazard, and Commander, Doug Blevins. Second row: Thomas Owens, Randy Miles, George Royal and Ed Mack Wooten.

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THE VFW LEADER

The Roasterie Coffee Company Creates Return the Favor Coffee

Kansas City, MO - The Roasterie Coffee Company has partnered with the Veterans of Foreign Wars Foundation to create a VFW coffee blend now available for purchase. Ten percent of all proceeds from the VFW blend will be donated to the VFW Foundation's Return the Favor campaign which supports active duty military, veterans and their families. "The VFW Foundation is proud to partner with our hometown coffee company," said VFW Foundation Director John Lowe. "The Roasterie Coffee Company is not only committed to providing the finest airroasted coffee, but also giving, back to the communities it serves." To purchase the VFW coffee blend, please visit www.theroasterie.com/ coffee/causes/vfw-foundation-return-the-favor-blend. The Roasterie has become one of the most nationally recognized coffee roasters by sourcing the best coffee available on the market today. Founded in 1993 by Danny O'Neill in the basement of his Kansas City home, The Roasterie has since grown to become a darling of the specialty coffee industry. The company chooses the innovative air-roasting method to delicately roast each bean with consistency and care. Committed to finding the best coffees from around the world, The Roasterie buys its beans from small, specialty farmers for a fair price.
ADVERTISING POLICY STATEMENT FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF NC's VFW LEADER.
1. The running of any advertisement does not imply or mean that the Department of North Carolina endorses or approves of that product or candidate. The only exceptions to this policy are ads that originate from VFW National Headquarters and its partners/a liates, and ads that state in the ad that the product/candidate is endorsed by this Department. 2. The Editor reserves the right to refuse any advertisement he deems inappropriate. 3. Ads must be submitted to the Editor in black and white, and ready for printing. 4. Finders of advertising will receive a 25% nder's fee when the advertising bill is paid by the advertiser.

Those beans are then roasted using a convection airroasting method, instead of the more traditional drumroasting method, to ensure superior consistency and a tastier, smoother cup of coffee. Since January of 2010, seven of The Roasterie's coffees have received a ranking of 90 or higher on Coffee Review.com; the premier international coffee-buying guide. The VFW Foundation is the official charity of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (VFW), America's oldest and largest service group for combat veterans. Return the Favor is an awareness and fundraising campaign to honor, celebrate and support activeduty military members, veterans and their families. It's mission is to support programs and services that provide financial assistance for military families, free phone calls for service members' overseas, VIP treatment for troops and their families at entertainment events, and morale-boosting events for military units. These programs and services are nonpolitical and provided at no cost to the recipients. The VFW Foundation is one of the nation's highest rated 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. For more information about the Return the Favor campaign or to donate, please, visit www.returnthefavor.org