Events - Vietnam Veterans of America Suffolk County
Transcription
Events - Vietnam Veterans of America Suffolk County
VIETNAM VETERANS ADVANCE http://www.vva11.org Official Publication of Chapter #11, Vietnam Veterans of America, Farmingville, New York ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★ Events October, November, December 2013 Oct. 5 Steps for Vets 9:00 am Golf Course, VAMC, Northport, NY Oct. 11 Fishing Trip 8:00 am Celtic Queen, Port Jefferson, NY Oct 25 General Meeting 8:00 pm 286 Hawkins Road, Centereach, NY Oct 27 All Carvalheira Dedication 2:00 pm Vietnam Veterans Memorial Garden VAMC, Northport, NY Nov 2 Vietnam Veterans Memorial Garden 9:00 am Vietnam Veterans Memorial Garden VAMC, Northport, NY Nov 8 Wall of Wars Dedication 2:00 pm Vietnam Veterans Memorial Garden VAMC, Northport, NY Nov 9 Dignity Wall Stone Dedication 2:00 pm Calverton National Cemetery Nov 10 Veterans Day Ceremony 1:30 pm Line-up Pinelawn National Cemetery Nov 11 Veterans Day Ceremony 12:30 pm Line-up Calverton National Cemetery Nov 22 General Meeting 8:00 pm 286 Hawkins Road, Centereach, NY *2nd Wednesday of every month at Calverton National Cemetery 9:45 am NOA Service. Welcome Home! 2013 - 2014 Officers Rich Kitson President Cell: 942-0105 Clarence Simpson Home: 447-1271 Vice President Dave Higgins Secretary Home: 736-0737 Tony Raiona Home: 399-0244 Treasurer Charlie Waters Home: 751-1886 Assistant Secretary 2012 – 2013 Board of Directors BRUCE ANTIN 484-4699 FRANK D’AVERSA 265-7525 ROGER GAULDEN 563-1787 BILL HOLOP 243-9148 MIKE WILLIAMS 516-769-8537 JAMES O’DONNELL 516-752-2915 BILL BAESSLER 697-1300 DAVE SINCLAIR 928-9352 Rich Toth 277-0583 Randy Schnittger 516-731-4465 Standing Committees MEMBERSHIP Frank D’Aversa 265-7525 GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS Rich Kitson 942-0105 FINANCE Tony Raiona 399-0244 VETERANS AFFAIRS Dave Higgins 736-0737 Homeless Veterans Clarence Simpson 447-1271 Nominating Bill Baessler 697-1300 POW / MIA James O’Donnell 516-752-2915 Patient Welfare / PTSD Dave Sinclair/Walter Stobie 928-9352 VETERANS BENEFITS Ron Romaszka 853-8387 PUBLIC AFFAIRS Roger Gaulden 563-1787 Frank D’Aversa 265-7525 Clarence Simpson Dave Higgins MINORITY AFFAIRS Clarence Simpson 447-1271 WOMEN VETERANS Maria Miller 399-0244 CONSTITUTION Bill Baessler 697-1300 Clarence Simpson 447-1271 AVVA LIAISON Susan Sinclair 928-9352 Nacola Wilson 849-2825 Rose D’Aversa 265-7525 Mary Schnittger 516-731-4465 Jean Palladino Maria Miller 399-0244 INCARCERATED VETS Ralph Zanchelli 665-5323 Frank D’Aversa 265-7525 COMMUNITY SERVICES Clarence Simpson 447-1271 Randy Schnittger 516-731-4465 Agent Orange Rich Clark 516-924-4471 Bruce Antin 484-4699 Employment & Business Randy Schnittger 516-731-4465 Chaplain Monsignor Charles R. Fink St. Philip Neri’s Rabbi Paul Swerdlow VA Hospital Chaplain Chapter 11 Assistance Center & Service Office State Delegates Bob Moore 277-8105 Rich Toth 277-0583 Bruce Antin 484-4699 (631) 751-1813 Ad-Hoc Committees VA Hospital Rich Kitson 942-0105 Pinelawn Rich Toth 277-0583 Merchandise Sales Dave Sinclair 928-9352 Rich Clark 516-924-4471 Newsletter & Photography Tony Raiona 399-0244 Clarence Simpson/Nacola Wilson 447-1271 849-2825 COLOR GUARD James O’Donnell 516-752-2915 BALD HILL Bill Baessler 697-1300 James O’Donnell 516-752-2915 BENEVOLENT Frank D’Aversa/Dave Sinclair 265-7525 698-9352 Bill Baessler 697-1300 FUND RAISING Bruce Antin 484-4699 Roger Gaulden 563-1787 VIET VET RIDERS Tony Raiona 399-0244 CALVERTON VOLUNTEER RECRUITMENT Dave Higgins 736-0737 Bill Holop Don Howe 589-1917 243-9148 VETS COURT Ralph Zanchelli 665-5323 Frank D’Aversa 265-7525 Become a Volunteer at the Northport VAMC Volunteers provide many important functions and services throughout the Medical Center and help make our patients’ stay more enjoyable. Volunteers can perform a number of services that can match the many skills and talents which they have with the many VAMC assignments. Questions? Call Bill Holop, Volunteer Recruiter VVA Chapter #11 631-243-9148 ***************************************************************************** NYSC’s Funeral Guide “When a Veteran Passes Away: A Planning Guide for the Surviving Family” is the title of a new fact-filled reader-friendly pamphlet put together by the New York State Council. The booklet contains, among other things, advice on how to apply for death and burial benefits, including burial in a VA-run national cemetery, how to arrange funeral honors, as well as a good deal of information specific to family members who live in New York. You can download a copy at the State Council’s web site, http://nyvietnamvets.org/w-a-v-p-a.php From the President’s Desk . . . Dear Chapter Members, The summer was full of VVA events including the Southampton Parade and almost three months of weekly summer concerts ending with a firework display on August 28th at VAMC Northport. To list all the wonderful men and women who came out in their Green Jackets to assist veterans from our Community Living Centers weekly would be virtually impossible in this publication. I will tell you that your efforts and the efforts of the DAV Transportation Network have resulted in our Chapter being looked upon by many other organizations as leaders in volunteerism which results in Vets Helping Vets. The men who work weekly at the Veterans Court have now extended their involvement to not only the Suffolk County Jail but also to Phoenix House and have shared their success with the leadership in the Bronx VAMC. That Committee is comprised of ten men and women who wear Green Jackets that are Vets Helping Vets at its best. Their integrity and power are examples that serve as guidelines for our veterans who have had difficulty with the law. The Steps for Homeless Vets took place on the VA golf course and was a success. Once again if I attempt to name everyone who assisted, I would run the risk of leaving someone out. You know who you are and not only I, but all Chapter Members thank you for your efforts. The men and women I refer to are all on the second and third page of this publication. If you wish to be part of something very special when it comes to Vets Helping Vets simply pick an event on the cover and make a call to any board member, officer, or any committee member. The most significant event that will occur for us as a Chapter will be on November 8, 2013 at 2pm behind the Chapel at the VA Hospital where our Wall of Wars will be unveiled. Jimmy O’Donnell and our Color Guard will begin the ceremonies not only at this event, but also at Pinelawn and Calverton Veteran Day Ceremonies. On a personal note, I was very fortunate to have my mother until she almost reached her 90th birthday. She was no stranger to this chapter because as a Gold Star Mother she attended twenty Breakfasts and got to know many of you personally. The cards, flowers and well wishes that you have extended, have made a huge impact on myself and my family. I extend my heartfelt thanks to you all. See you at our next meeting on October 25, 2013 to discuss the Wall of Wars. Semper Fi, Rich Kitson Wall of Wars Over the years, the veterans of this country, along with their families have protected us time and again so that we may live as free people in this country we love. The veterans alive today understand the sacrifices they have made – and they understand, honor, and respect the sacrifices of those that served before them. There, in Northport, at the Medical Center, exists a place of tranquility and safety for our veterans - and for all visitors – to reflect on these sacrifices and our nation’s great history. In 2009, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Garden was constructed. Building upon this Memorial Garden and a stage and patio was added in 2011…and now it is time to add the third and final phase of this project: “The Wall of Wars”. Spanning from the American Revolution, to today’s global War on Terror, the Wall will include twelve granite monuments that each depict a period of history in America Veterans, their families and friends, and visitors of all ages will be able to walk among the monuments and reflect on the history of this country and those that have served, sacrificed, and died for the protection of our freedom. Imagine the veterans visiting, healing, and living at the Medical Center having a place to sit and quietly reflect on what they and those before them have achieved. Imagine the therapeutic effects of sharing these reflections with their fellow service members, or their children and grandchildren. The Wall of Wars will become a place to honor, remember, and educate. In time, we plan to add features such as audio narratives and smart phone applications to enhance the visitors experience and highlight the contributions of brave Americans. The 2013 Non-VA Emergency Care Fact Sheet Today, July 10, 2013, I received a most interesting "Fact Sheet" from the VA. The question comes to my mind: "Why did it take the VA 14 years to make these mandatory law facts known to the Veterans?" The NON-VA EMERGENCY CARE FACT SHEET covered the issue of emergency care at non-VA facilities for Veterans receiving VA medical care. The notice originated March 1, 2013, from the VA Chief Business Office, Purchased Care, Denver, CO, YET; it was bulk mailed from the VA Health Eligibility Center, Atlanta GA within the last week. The tone of the notice would indicate that the issue of VA payment of emergency care for VA covered Veterans at private facilities is new and that the VA is doing us all a favor by informing us of this option. The truth of the matter is that this issue of VA payment for private provider emergency care of covered Veterans was mandated by the Veterans Millennium Bill Act of 1999 and has been law since December of that year. I know this to be fact because I took the VA to the BVA -- and won - on this very issue in the year 2005 when the local VA Medical Center refused to pay for a billing for emergency coronary care at the local regional coronary care facility. The BVA ruling was a word-for-word restatement of my appeal arguments and law in support! However, I note that the VA did incompletely state the facts of this act and law. COVERED EMERGENCIES: In the case of ANY (not just VA defined) medical emergency treatment at a private provider the VA must compensate the provider in full, further; if the Veteran is admitted to hospital directly from the private facility ER, the VA must compensate the facility for ALL the Veteran's care ER and admitted care. This also includes compensating any ambulance service involved in the emergency transport. The law DOES NOT state the mandate is for a condition that the VA defines as emergency, it states that in any situation in which a "reasonable and prudent person" would believe a medical emergency exists, where the Veteran is transported to and receives private facility emergency room care, including when the Veteran is admitted to hospital from the ER care, the VA must compensate for all the services. COMPENSATION: This compensation is to be such that the Veteran then owes NOTHING on the bills for the private care. Under this law the VA's version of "reasonable and customary" billing does not apply, rather; the local area reasonable and customary billing amount talks precedent -- the amount the insurance companies would reimburse the medical facilities is what the VA must pay. VETERANS COVERED: The so called "Fact Sheet" also leads readers to believe that the coverage only applies to Service Connected Veterans which is a direct defiance of the law which states that ANY Veteran eligible for VA medical care is covered for emergency care. This would include Service Connected as well as War Pension covered Veterans, and any Veterans with medical coverage under any other VA plan. Incarcerated Veterans Program Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 11, under the leadership of President Richard Kitson and the entire board. The team consists of Frank D’Aversa (United States Navy), Clarence Simpson (United States Army), Thomas Greenwood (United States Army), Franklyn Carle (United States Airforce), Donald Howe (United States Airforce), Ralph Zanchelli (United States Navy), Fred Callice (PH) (United States Army), and Steven Tillman, Social Worker, (Northport Veterans Hospital). Purpose We let the Veterans know we care about them. We tell them they are our Brothers. They served our Country, and we served our Country. Program 1. We supply the Veterans with hand-outs explaining all the benefits available to them. 2. If a Veteran spent any time at the Northport Veterans Hospital, we encourage him to share his experiences at the Hospital. If we are successful in getting a Veteran to share his experience at the Hospital, this will encourage other Veterans to contact the Hospital and get the help they so desperately need. 3. Our next segment is conducted by our Vice President, Clarence Simpson United States Army. Clarence shares passionately his personal experiences he had when he returned home from Vietnam with the incarcerated Veterans. He talks to them about the battles he had with drugs, alcohol, and PTSD. He finishes up by telling them the help he received from the programs at the V.A. Hospital. 4. We introduce Steven Tillman to them, Social Worker at the Northport Veterans Hospital. Steve talks to them about all programs available to them at the Northport Veterans Hospital. 5. On numerous occasions Judge Jack Toomey, the presiding Judge of Suffolk County’s Veterans Court will come to the Suffolk County Jail with the incarcerated Vets Team. Judge Toomey gives an overview to the incarcerated Veterans of ho the Veterans Court operates. After the Judge explains the Vets Court, he opens up the floor for any questions the incarcerated Veterans may have. He answers every question with compassion and concern. We could not ask for a better Judge presiding over the Veterans Court. Judge Jack Toomey is a Vietnam Veteran, United States Army. 6. Throughout the entire session the Veterans are reminded, everything is up to them. They have to reach out and make the phone calls. The team will try to answer any questions the Veterans may have. 7. We help the Veterans fill out the necessary paperwork they will need to apply for the benefits. Conclusion It is our belief, if we help just one of these Veterans, it is all worth it. Submitted by Ralph Zanchelli Suffolk County Veteran’s Court Mentoring Program Mission Statement: The Mission of the Veteran’s Mentoring Program is to support the veteran through their readjustment to civilian life and to act as a friend and ally through this difficult time. Vision Statement: The Vision of the Veteran’s Mentoring Program is that “No veteran is left behind.” Having VVA Chapter 11 veterans participate as mentors is an important part of the Suffolk County Veteran’s Court, as there is a bond that occurs between veterans around the values that are shared by the military and the sacrifices that have been made during military service. The Mentoring Program offers support and encouragement for veterans in the court system by spending one-onone time with the veteran after they appear during the proceedings of the Veteran’s Court. These mentoring sessions usually do not last longer than 10 minutes and give the veteran the opportunity to bring up concerns and get feedback and support from another veteran. The Mentor is a resource to the veteran, NOT A COUNSELOR. VVA Chapter 11 A.K.A. “The green jackets”, has participated as mentors since the veterans court began in February of 2011. Currently, we are the only VSO in Suffolk County, NY to volunteer as mentors in this program. Nine of the veterans in our chapter volunteer in the Mentoring Program. The presiding judge is also a combat Vietnam veteran and also a life member of VVA Chapter 11. As mentors, we are proud to participate in the upcoming graduation of 16 veterans that have completed their treatment successfully. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing a mentee at the VAMC and have him say, “Thanks for caring; thanks for saving my life”. Submitted by Frank D’Aversa IT IS MY DISTINCT HONOUR TO PASS THIS ALONG..... You're a 19 year old kid. You're critically wounded and dying in the jungle somewhere in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. It's November 11, 1967. LZ (landing zone) X-ray. Your unit is outnumbered 8-1 and the enemy fire is so intense from 100 yards away, that your CO (commanding officer) has ordered the MedEvac helicopters to stop coming in. You're lying there, listening to the enemy machine guns and you know you're not getting out. Your family is half way around the world, 12,000 miles away, and you'll never see them again. As the world starts to fade in and out, you know this is the day. Then - over the machine gun noise - you faintly hear that sound of a helicopter. You look up to see a Huey coming in. But. It doesn't seem real because no MedEvac markings are on it. Captain Ed Freeman is coming in for you. He's not MedEvac so it's not his job, but he heard the radio call and decided he's flying his Huey down into the machine gun fire anyway. Even after the MedEvacs were ordered not to come. He's coming anyway. And he drops it in and sits there in the machine gun fire, as they load 3 of you at a time on board. Then he flies you up and out through the gunfire to the doctors and nurses and safety. And, he kept coming back!! 13 more times!! Until all the wounded were out. No one knew until the mission was over that the Captain had been hit 4 times in the legs and left arm. He took 29 of you and your buddies out that day. Some would not have made it without the Captain and his Huey. Medal of Honor Recipient, Captain Ed Freeman, United States Air Force, died last Wednesday at the age of 70, in Boise , Idaho May God Bless and Rest His Soul. I bet you didn't hear about this hero's passing, but we've sure seen a whole bunch about Lindsay Lohan, Tiger Woods and the bickering of congress over Health Reform. Medal of Honor Winner Captain Ed Freeman Shame on the media!!! Now... YOU pass this along. Honor this real hero. Please. Submitted by : Chaplain Paul Swerdlow, VAMC, Northport, NY DEDICATON TO AL CARVALHEIRA Summer Concert Series Arrival of Vietnam Veterans Wall of Wars Panel Vietnam Veterans Information Day STEPS FOR HOMELESS VETS Agent Orange Overview Many Vietnam veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange continue to experience health problems related to their exposure, but not all of them are able to claim disability benefits through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA). Although a recent VA ruling is making compensation more accessible for those with Parkinson’s disease, ischemic heart disease and hairy cell leukemia, there are still thousands whose illnesses are not considered service-connected by VA. For many Navy and Coast Guard vets, the problem in proving their health problems are related to their military service begins with their off-shore duty. Because Agent Orange (AO), a blend of toxic herbicides used to remove leaves from trees that provided cover for enemy forces, was predominantly sprayed over jungles, the VA presumes services connection only for those who can prove they had “boots on the ground” or served on inland rivers. Many veterans who served on ships off the coast of Vietnam, so called “blue water” veterans, were exposed to the chemical when planes over-sprayed their ships or shifting winds blew the toxins seaward, but their service does not automatically provide presumptive status for AO-related illnesses. ***************************************************************************** Help Locate POWs, MIAs The Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office’s (DPMO) mission is to resolve cases of personnel who are still unaccounted for from past wars and to help find and recover remains, if possible. Rod Millner, is an intelligence research analyst for DPMO, is asking veterans to contact him if they have any information on the whereabouts of missing service members from World War II. Sometimes veterans kept journals which have this information about friends who were killed in action (KIA), but they don’t think it’s useful to anyone. Veterans who have such knowledge are encouraged to contact DPMO with information that could lead to the recovery of that Soldier or Sailor’s remains. You can also call Mr. Millner at 703-699-1268 or e-mail him at Rodney.Millner@osd.mil. To learn more, visit the DPMO web page at www.dtic.mil/dpmo. My healthevet My Health, My Care: 24/7 Online Access to VA VA Allergies and Adverse Reactions Information for Patients Contact: Valerie Drautz, 631-261-4400 - Ext. 5358 - Empowering Veterans - Improving Health Outcomes - 24/7 Access to VA Information How to find VA Allergies and Adverse Reactions on My HealtheVet Log on to: www.my health.va.gov Select: Go to My HealtheVet and press Enter Other Important Features: VA Prescription Refills, VA Appointments, Medical Libraries, Wellness Reminders WE NEED YOU IN THE VIETNAM VETERANS OF AMERICA MEMBERSHIP ELIGIBILITY AND DUES Open to any Vietnam Era Veteran who served in the U.S. Armed Forces for purposes other than training during the period from February 28, 1961 to May 7, 1975. NOTE: Reservists who were on Active Duty for Training are NOT eligible for Veterans Status according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. ANNUAL MEMBERS: INDIVIDUAL MEMBER An Annual Dues Paying Member Who is a Vietnam Era Veteran. (IMD) ASSOCIATE MEMBER An Annual Dues Paying Member Who is NOT a Vietnam Era Veteran. (ASO) LIFE MEMBERSHIP: LIFE MEMBER A Vietnam Era Veteran who has fully paid his/her life member dues. (LMP) LIFE MEMBER TIME PAYMENT A Vietnam Era Veteran who is on a time payment plan to become a Fully Paid Life Member. Time payment plan must be completed in a twelve month period. (LMT) ASSOCIATE LIFE MEMBER PAID An Associate member who has fully paid his/her life member dues. (ALP) ASSOCIATE LIFE MEMBER TIME PAYMENT An Associate member who is on a time payment plan to become a Fully Paid Associate Life Member. Time payment plan must be completed in a twelve month period. (LMT) DUES: Annual Dues are $ 20.00 per year for individual or associate members OR $ 50.00 for a 3 Year Membership (You save $10.00) LIFE MEMBER PAYMENTS, BASED UPON YOUR CURRENT AGE, Are As Follows: 49 and Under $250.00 NOTE: Proof of Age Must Accompany All 50 to 55 $225.00 Life Member Applications. 56 to 60 61 to 65 66 and Over $200.00 $175.00 $150.00 DD214 MUST ACCOMPANY ALL APPLICATIONS FOR VIETNAM VETERANS _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ I am a Vietnam Era Veteran – Copy of DD214 is Required DUES $ 20.00 or $ 50.00 I am NOT a Vietnam Era Veteran, but would like to be an Associate Member of VVA Renewal of Membership Address Change (Indicate Changes Below) LIFE MEMBERSHIP: VIETNAM ERA VETERAN ASSOCIATE I wish to contribute and to be kept informed. Enclosed is my contribution of $____________ Name ________________________________ Telephone____________________ Address ___________________________________________________________ City _________________________________ State _______ Zip_____________ Email ____________________________ Questions? Call (631) 751-1813 Please make your check or money order payable to: Vietnam Veterans of AmericaMail to: VVA Chapter 11, PO Box 518, Farmingville, NY 11738-0518 MEMBERSHIP All Are Welcome Membership is open to both men and women. Friends, supporters, and families. We encourage associate membership. If you served in the U.S. Armed Forces anytime from February 28, 1961 to May 7, 1975, you are eligible for membership in Vietnam Veterans of America. Dues are $ 20.00 per year. ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★ VIETNAM VETERANS OF AMERICA CHAPTER 11 SERVICES & PROGRAMS TIMOTHY DUFFY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP Annual scholarship for dependents of Vietnam veterans. SSGT. ALAN F. SCHAEFER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP Annual scholarship for Vietnam era veterans. POW/MIA REMEMBERANCE SCHOLARSHIP Annual scholarship for Vietnam era veterans, their dependents and Chapter 11 members. AGENT ORANGE INFORMATION POW/MIA INFORMATION SOCIAL & COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES QUARTERLY “Interchange” NYS PUBLICATION MONTHLY “Veteran” NATIONAL PUBLICATION QUARTERLY “Vietnam Veterans Advance” NEWSLETTER ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★ Web Site Addresses Veterans Employment & Training Services www.dol.gov/vets Governor’s Program to Hire Disabled Vets www.cs.state.ny.us N.Y.S. Dept. of Labor Workforce NY www.labor.state.ny.us Helping Young Vets In Employment (Senator Craig) http://veterans.senate.gov Public Law 107-288 – Jobs for Veterans Act www.hirevetsfirst.org Helmets to Hard Hats www.helmetstohardhats.org Center for Minority Affairs www.va.gov/centerforminorityveterans Gravesite Locator http://gravelocator.cem.va.gov New York State Council Web Site www.NYVietnamVets.org Vietnam Vets Donation Pickup www.WePickUp.com Community Directory VA Regional Office (212) VA Medical Center-Northport (631) Suffolk County Dept. of Labor Hauppauge (631) Babylon (631) Riverhead (631) NYS Dept. of Labor – OVOPs Hicksville (516) Hauppauge (631) Patchogue (631) Riverhead (631) Small Business Administration (631) Woman’s Coalition – 24 Hrs. (631) Suffolk Cty. Veterans Service Agency Hauppauge (631) Riverhead (631) NYS Div.of Veterans Affairs (631) Northport VA Medical Center (631) Response ( 24 Hours) (631) Alcoholics Anonymous (631) Al-Anon / Al-Ateen (631) Gamblers Anonymous (631) Parents Anonymous (800) Narcotics Anonymous (718) Pot / Pills Anonymous (631) Child Abuse (800) Domestic Violence (800) Newsletter Fax (631) (631) Vietnam Vets Donation Pick Up (631) 620-6901 261-4400 853-6775 661-8600 284-6100 934-8516 952-6630 758-7712 727-4870 454-8080 566-8833 853-8387 852-1410 952-6432 261-4400 751-7500 654-1124 6542827 586-7171 462-6406 805-9835 422-6245 342-3720 942-6906 395-3319 244-7423 582-0242 V A TOLL FREE NUMBERS V A Benefits Education ( GI Bill) Health Care Benefits Income Verification & Means Test Life Insurance Mammography Helpline Special Issues Status of Headstones & Markers TDD for the Deaf 1-800-827-1000 1-888-442-4551 1-877-222-8387 1-800-929-8387 1-800-669-8477 1-888-492-7844 1-800-749-8387 1-800-697-6947 1-800-829-4833 ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★ HAVE A FEW ITEMS YOU’D LIKE TO DONATE? VIETNAM VETERANS OF AMERICA Would greatly appreciate your tax deductible donation of used items. This is our primary source of support for helping veterans. Your support makes it possible for us to continue funding V.A. service offices, providing services to homeless veterans and other necessary programs. Kitchenware Bric-A-Brac Dishes Radios Small Appliances Lamps Jewelry Area Rugs Books Toys Furniture T.V.’s Housewares Other Items CLOTHING ESPECIALLY NEEDED FREE PICK UP (631) 582-0242 www.WePickUp.org Full Service Advertising And Promotional Products Gina’s Custom Promotional Products Apparel Glassware Signs & Banners Desk Items Pens Awards Calendars Bags Executive Gifts Key Tags Computer Accessories Travel & Gift Items and much more! Full Service Advertising Where Brochures Radio Web Sites Television Direct Mail Ads Creative Service One & Full Color Printing and much more! Rich De Clemente Enchanted Flower Shoppe Where Flowers Meet the Heart 1250 Old Nichols Road Islandia, NY 11749 631-234-1403 800-442-5208 Fax 631-610-4519 Associate Member of VVA 11 Proud To Support Our Veterans And All Our Troops Around The World! http://EnchantedFlowers.com Special Discounts to all Veterans and Their Families Gina@EnchantedFlowers.com Bouquets Center Pieces Weddings Gourmet Fruit Baskets Proms Sweet 16’s If you need to promote your business or special event… Contact me anytime, and any day of the week 516-381-5664 Bar/Bat Mitzvah Party Arrangements Baby Showers Sympathy Arrangements Chapter 11 Members Receive a Discount rich@declemente.com SULLIVAN & KEHOE, LLP Attorneys at Law O.B. Davis Funeral Homes Port Jefferson Station, Miller Place, Centereach (631) 473-0360 Gregory C. Muller NYS Licensed Funeral Director Advanced Planning Counselor We Specialize in Veterans Disability Benefit Claims at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs & Social Security Disability and Supplemental Security Income Claims Over 50 Years Combined Experience Michael T. Sullivan, Esq. Proud Vietnam Veteran 44 Main Street 1.800.395.7830 Main Office Kings Park, NY 631.269.1515 Offices Also Located in Riverhead, Manhattan, and Mineola Services & Information Available: Price Guaranteed Prearranged Funerals VVA Chapter 11 Affinity Relationship 10% Discount Planning Ahead Workshops Veterans Burial Benefits Irrevocable Medicaid Trusts Grief Management Library Homeless Veterans Burial Program Dignity Memorial hosts ten locations in Suffolk County and seven locations in Nassau County. Greg is a Lifetime Associate Member of Chapter 11 Call him today at 631.664.4625 *New York State law mandates that all contracts for prearranged funeral agreements executed by applicants for or recipients of supplemental social security income or medical assistance be irrevocable. Meeting Place Brookhaven Town Parks & Recreation Bldg. 286 Hawkins Rd. Centereach, NY Day & Time 4th Friday of each Month 8:00 PM If you were in Vietnam or served during the Vietnam years, you know what it was like. You also know what it’s been like since you got home, right? The problems, the hassles, trying to explain to people who didn’t understand or care. We know. That’s why the Vet Center was set up. 116 W. Main Street Babylon, NY 11702 (631) 661-3930 MEETING ANNOUNCEMENTS The Next General Meeting will be held on the th 4 Friday At 8:00 PM at the Bald Hill Chalet VVA Meetings are open to the public: Spouse, friends and supporters of Vietnam and Vietnam-Era Veterans. We urge all to attend. ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★ VIETNAM VETERANS OF AMERICA Chapter # 11 POST OFFICE BOX 518 VIETNAM MEMORIAL LANE FARMINGVILLE, NY 11738-0518 Non-Profit Org. U.S. POSTAGE PAID Farmingville, NY 11738 Permit No. 18 Forwarding and Return Postage Guaranteed “We Served Our Country When it was Popular To Say No”