Veterans of Foreign Wars of the
United States of America
General MacArthur Memorial Post No. 392
2408 Bowland Parkway, Virginia Beach, Virginia 23454
PH: (757) 486-5875
                                    

 

VFW Post 392 Newsletter Page

 MONTHLY NEWSLETTER

From VFW Post 392 Canteen Manager Shelly Hughes:

 

VFW Post Members, Good Day!

  I wanted to address a few issues we are having with regard to our access control system door locks, electronic key fobs, and their usage. The purpose of the newer system of door locks and key fobs is to protect our members and our employees from unnecessary risks. The system only works if we as a group use it appropriately. Having said that please follow the procedures listed below:

  1. Please bring your fob with you when visiting the Post. This saves the bartenders from having to confirm your membership and authorization to use the facility. If guests accompany you, they must be signed in immediately upon arrival.

  2. Opening the door(s) and allowing access to our Post is the responsibility of the bartender on duty. Please don't open the door for anyone that doesn't have their fob. Again, this is the responsibility of the bartender on duty.

  3. Never allow access to the Post to anyone that you don't personally know. We need to know their reason for wanting access and review photo identification for all individuals that are not known members.

  4. Never, under any circumstances, should any exterior access door be propped open without the express permission of the Quartermaster, Canteen Manager, or bartender on duty, and then only for long enough to move deliveries or equipment through the door. Exterior doors will not be left open if unattended.

   Violations of this policy will be reported to the House Committee Chairperson for action.

  If you need a replacement fob or haven't picked up your fob from the Post, please see the bartender on duty or Quartermaster John Phillips.

   If you have any questions, please let me know.

 

Shelly Hughes

Canteen Manager

canteenmanager392@gmail.com

757-486-5875

  

 It is our pleasure to present to you the latest edition of RED, WHITE, and BLUE THREE NINETY TWO's Monthly Newsletter. The June 2023 Newsletter is now available for your review. In it you will find messages from Post and Auxiliary Leadership, upcoming events, recent past events, birthdays, passings, Canteen information, and longevity awards. Please take time to review the Newsletter in its entirety to see what YOUR VFW Post is doing for our members and community. Also note that the printed hard copy of the Newsletter is only current as of the time of publication - events are subject to being added, changed, or deleted, and the electronic copy found below is updated for that month. For the most up to date calendar of events, click on the link on the left to view our Calendar page.

  Scroll down to see links to the past year's worth of Newsletters. At the bottom of the page is contact information for our Virginia State VA Representatives in Virginia Beach and updated information (as of 12/25/2021) regarding changes to TRICARE.

Addition of Social Security Administration Information Page

If you look at the links to the left, you will see we have added the SSA Info link, which takes you to a new page where information from the Social Security Administration is posted for your review and as needed, action. Please take a look and if there are SSA related items we need to add, send them via email to webmaster@vfw392.org.

CHANGES IN SERVICES AND SCREENING AT THE HAMPTON VA HOSPITAL AS OF 4/8/2022

Comrades and Sisters, please note the following info provided by the VA Hampton Medical Center: COVID and Pharmacy Tent operations ceased on April 8, 2022. Pre-procedure screening is now conducted in building 110, room D316. For non pre-procedure testing, please go to the Emergency Room. All Pharmacy needs returned to the main Pharmacy on the ground floor in building 110 on April 11. Effective April 11, 2022 Covid Vaccination Clinic has moved from Bldg. 114 to Bldg. 110B, 2nd floor, room 2C-150 & 2C-151, in Prime 6.

The attached document contains reproductive health facts and guidelines determined by the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense. Click here to download the PDF file.

 

MESSAGE FROM THE VFW ADJUTANT GENERAL REGARDING

 "CLAIM SHARKS"

Comrades,

 

For the last week our Communications Department has been working on a couple of videos that we are now putting out on Social Media to counter the ads that the “Claims Sharks” are just now starting to put out.  They are not Camp Lejeune ads; these are ads by firms stating they can handle veterans claims and get the veteran all the benefits they deserve or can help them increase their existing claims.  Of course, there is a cost to this, and it comes out of the veterans pocket and the Veteran has already paid through their service.

 

While our Washington office is busy working on the legislative side to address these “Claims Sharks”, we on the fraternal side can make sure we do our best to starve the “Claims Sharks” so they do not have enough to eat.  I am sure many of you have heard about combined arms through your service.  It is important that while we work diligently in D.C. we must also work just as hard out in the trenches by combining that one-two punch of combined arms. 

 

I am adamant that the VFW show up to any fight where veterans need us.  The two ads below are the ads that will be going out on Social Media nationwide to show our members, those veterans who need us and the rest of the world that we are present on the battlefield of veteran’s advocacy and always will be.

 

Please pass this email on to the members in your respective Departments and ask them to look for them on Social Media.  I would ask that when they see our ads on whatever Social Media channel share and or tag them with other veterans and their families.

 

These two are a start. More are being developed. 

 

Any questions, concerns or compliments please let me know.

 

Through your service, YOU’VE ALREADY PAID FOR VA CLAIMS ASSISTANCE! Don’t let the “Claim Sharks” take part of what’s yours. Contact a VFW Accredited Service Officer today!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-fecyOlhtV8

 

Through your service, YOU’VE ALREADY PAID FOR ACCESS TO VA BENEFITS. You’ve also earned the backing of America’s largest war veterans organization. So let our Accredited Service Officers help you file your VA claim AT NO COST and steer clear of “Claim Sharks.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1uvnbrPliCw

 

Dan West

Adjutant General

Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States

406 W. 34th Street

Kansas City, Missouri 64111

816.968.1110

www.vfw.org

Join at www.vfw.org/join/eligibility

 


Please note that this prohibition includes vaping and e-cigarettes. Smoking is permitted on the covered patio.

Please refresh the page to ensure you're seeing the most recent version.

 

 

Tweets by @VFWPost392
The current and past year's Newsletters
(Click the link to open the Newsletter)
The current VFW Magazine
(Click to view Magazine)
 
June 2023 Newsletter Online
May 2023 Newsletter Online
April 2023 Newsletter Online
March 2023 Newsletter Online
February 2023 Newsletter Online
January 2023 Newsletter Online
December 2022 Newsletter Online
November 2022 Newsletter Online
October 2022 Newsletter Online
September 2022 Newsletter Online
August 2022 Newsletter Online
July 2022 Newsletter Online
June 2022 Newsletter Online

 

E-Newsletter & Updates
Would you like to have the latest newsletter delivered to your e-mail inbox?  Sign up here for your monthly free copy of the "VFW 392 Newsletter", which is sent out towards the end of each month.  If you have not received any electronic correspondence from the Post and wish to do so, please sign up below. Your name and/or e-mail address will not be shared with or sold to anyone else.

The Newsletter contains post updates, messages from the post leadership, special features, and news about important topics relevant to veterans and today's active-duty, Reserve and Guard members.

Important: If you do sign up or currently receive e-mail notifications from the post, please ensure you add webmaster@vfw392.org to your contact list to ensure the e-mails are not sent to your SPAM folder.
 
Subscribe to the  VFW Post 392 Mailing List__
To unsubscribe, click this button ---->
_Unsubscribe_

Please note that we are now accepting advertisements within our Newsletter.

NEWSLETTER ADVERTISING & PRICING
All ads are paid advertisements, and are not endorsed by the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

The prices are as follows:
Ad Size – Price per Duration
Full Page – Monthly $150.00
Full Page – Quarterly $400.00
Full Page – Yearly $1500.00
½ Page – Monthly $75.00
½ Page – Quarterly $135.00
½ Page – Yearly $775.00
¼ Page – Monthly $50.00
¼ Page – Quarterly $135.00
¼ Page – Yearly $450.00
Business Card – Monthly $30.00
Business Card – Quarterly $80.00
Business Card – Yearly $275.00

Be Seen In Our Newsletter!

VFW Post 392 is offering advertising space within our newsletter. We have a monthly circulation of over 2100, and unlimited potential via this website.
All content must be submitted to and approved by the Post prior to the 15th of each month.

If you are interested in purchasing advertisement space within our newsletter, please contact
Patrick Doyle, Post Quartermaster, at 486-5875 or via e-mail at vfwpost392@gmail.com.



VFW Post 392 On Facebook And Twitter
While the Post Newsletter is only updated monthly, regular updates about happenings at the Post are posted to both the VFW Post 392 and VFW Post 392 Auxiliary pages on Facebook. Additionally, Post 392 can now be found on Twitter, at https://twitter.com/VFWPost392
To keep up with current events, click the appropriate page name above or the links on the left side or bottom of any page on this website and you will be taken to that page.

POST 392 LEGACY CEILING TILES

VFW Post is now selling 2' x 2' Legacy Ceiling Tiles that can be hung in the Canteen or Main Hall Ceiling at the Post. They are very high quality and can be ordered at the Post for $65.00. You may obtain one for yourself, or to memorialize any veteran whose service you wish to honor. This includes members of our Auxiliary!

There are already over thirty in place, and they look great!! The order form can be downloaded by clicking here. Here are some examples of Legacy Tiles already in place. Click the image to see full size. You can view additional tiles and get additional information by opening the August 2021 MOCA Insert.

 

Letter from VFW Post 392 Member Stu Carson

Regarding Old Dominion Honor Flight Mission 4 

On April 22nd, 2023, VFW Post 392 member Stu Carson was one of several bus loads of veterans honored with a free trip to Quantico VA and Washington D.C. as part of Old Dominion Honor Flight Mission #4. Stu was escorted by Post 392 Past (an incoming) Commander Troy Wagers. Below is a letter Stu wrote detailing his trip and thanking those involved in the ODHF mission. To see a full size copy of the letter, simply click on it to open it. Our thanks to Stu for his gracious words!!

 

PATRIOTIC CREATIVE ART COMPETITION - CLOSED 3/31/2023

This is a reminder that the deadline for the Patriotic Art Contest sponsored through the Auxiliary of the VFW was March 31, 2023. Awards were presented during our Community Awards Ceremony on April 13th, 2023.

 

You may recall the Young American Creative Patriotic Art contest covered both Two- and Three-Dimensional Art. New this year was the separation of the two forms of art, giving Three-Dimensional Art its own scholarship funds.

 

Our winner in this category and our others may be viewed on our Community Service page by clicking the link on the left side of this page.

 

Please direct any inquiries to cjmitchell02531@gmail.com

 

Connie J. Mitchell

Scholarship Chairman

Auxiliary VFW Post 392

 

VFW Crowns 2023 National Youth Scholarship Winners

Tennessee high school sophomore takes home first place $35,000 scholarship

 

WASHINGTON (March 6, 2023) – Tonight, during the 76th annual Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Parade of Winners ceremony, the organization proudly presented more than $171,000 in scholarships and awards as it named the national winners of its 2023 Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen youth scholarship competitions.

 

Sponsored by Twisted X, the Parade of Winners event featured the 53 national VFW Department (state) winners, along with Twisted X CEO and president, Prasad Reddy.

 

VFW National Commander Tim Borland was joined by VFW Auxiliary President Jane Reape to present this year’s national Voice of Democracy first place winner, Scotland Stewart, with the top $35,000 T.C. Selman Memorial Scholarship. Stewart, a sophomore at Franklin County High School in Winchester, Tennessee, was sponsored by VFW Post 1893 in Estill Springs, Tennessee. Watch as he delivered his winning essay during this evening’s ceremony on this year’s theme, “Why is the Veteran Important?”

Graphical user interface

Second place winner Siri Corson, a junior at Fillmore Central High School in Harmony, Minnesota, sponsored by VFW Post 6893 and its Auxiliary in Preston, Minnesota, was awarded the $21,000 Charles Kuralt Memorial Scholarship. Gina Wierzbowski, a senior at Mystic Valley Regional Charter School in Malden, Massachusetts, sponsored by VFW Post 620 located in Stoneham, Massachusetts, was named the third place winner and awarded the $15,000 VFW Scholarship. All other state winners received at least a $1,000 college scholarship. See the complete list of 2023 Voice of Democracy national winners.

 

Also featured during tonight’s awards ceremony was the 2023 Patriot’s Pen first place winner, Leighton Peters. Sponsored by VFW Post 2204 and its Auxiliary in Rice Lake, Wisconsin, Peters was awarded the top Patriot’s Pen prize of $5,000. Watch as she delivered her winning essay during this evening's ceremony on this year’s theme, “My Pledge to Our Veterans.”

 

The Patriot’s Pen second place winner, Nolan Green, sponsored by VFW Post 8731 in Monticello, Minnesota, will receive a $4,000 award, while third place winner Makayla Cole, sponsored by VFW Post 5675 and its Auxiliary in Odessa, Missouri, will receive a $3,500 award. See the complete list of 2023 Patriot’s Pen national winners.

 

Learn more about the VFW Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen programs here.

 

 

Scholarship Judging Completed - Winners Announced

SCHOLARSHIP NEWS (11/13/2022):

 The deadline date for the VFW Post 392 Voice of Democracy (VOD) Audio Essay Contest, the Patriot’s Pen (PEN) Essay Contest, and Teacher of the Year has passed. We have judged these three contests and I am pleased to report the winners of these contests are:

Voice of Democracy:

·       First Place – Anna Serrano, a student of Oaktree Academy

·       Second Place – Nathanial Swindle, a student at Ocean Lakes High School

·       Third Place – Jessica Fortin, a student at Bayside High School.

Patriot’s Pen:

·       First Place – Brooks Jolly, a student of Star of the Sea School

·       Second Place – Bryson Cox, a student of Star of the Sea School (Selected for advancement to Department of VA competition)

·       Third Place – Christopher Field, a student of Star of the Sea School

Teacher of the Year:

 Janet White, a 30+ year veteran of the US Marine Corps, who currently teaches Physical Education at the Star of the Sea School and helps promote flag etiquette and patriotism among her students. She was entered in the contest for the Middle School level. Her entry has been selected for advancement to Department of VA competition.

 

  I also want to thank our volunteers who helped, whether it be counting the words of the PEN contest or judging both the PEN and VOD contests.  Our volunteers were Sarah Davis, Ann Marie Brothers, Marisa “Ri” Tanner (a member from Back Bay Post 1211) and Deborah Ward.  I also want to give a big thanks to Bob DeChamplain, who was in the kitchen preparing for the Buddy Bobby dinner and who graciously agreed to take time out to break the tie in our VOD contest.

 

  Our first-place winner for the VOD contest will now advance to VFW District 2 for consideration.  Due to the number of entries we received for the PEN contest, we are able to advance our top three winners to District 2 for consideration.

 

  This year we had a teacher from Bayside Middle School who desired to run their own program. Under the rules governing both VOD and PEN, this is allowed, but they must follow the same procedures we follow. I provided them with the information they needed, including a score card which sets the criteria the essays were to be judged on. It is my understanding about 15 students participated in the in-school contest.  The winner was then forwarded to me to be included in the judging the conducted by Post 392. I received high praises from the two teachers who were involved, saying they thought it was a wonderful contest and a great experience for the school and students alike.

 

   Up next are the Continuing Education Scholarship which ends February 15th, the Scout of the Year Scholarship which ends March 1, and the Patriotic Art contest which ends March 31st. As mentioned previously, the Art program was broken into two separate contests starting this year, one for two-dimensional art and one for the three-dimensional art.

 

   Again, thanks to all who helped to support the Scholarship Program. 

 

Connie Mitchell

Scholarship Chairman

Auxiliary VFW Post 392

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

 

INFORMATION FROM VFW NATIONAL HQ REGARDING CAMP LEJUNE CLAIMS

VFW, Bergmann & Moore Collaborate to assist with Camp Lejeune Claims

The goal of the relationship is to assist and guide veterans and military families affected by toxic water exposure at Camp LeJeune.

WASHINGTON (Nov. 9, 2022) — For nearly a decade, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and the law firm of Bergmann & Moore have worked together to provide effective legal representation for veterans with VA disability benefit appeals before the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims. Through a renewed agreement, the VFW is entrusting Bergmann & Moore with guiding and assisting its members in navigating the Camp Lejeune Justice Act (CLJA).

“Ensuring veterans harmed in the line of duty are made whole has been a guiding principle for the VFW since our founding more than 123 years ago,” said VFW National Commander Tim Borland. “We are honored to expand our association with Bergmann & Moore to ensure veterans and their families who benefit from filing a lawsuit are represented by someone who has their best interest at heart.”

In August, the VFW-championed SFC Health Robinson Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act of 2022 was signed into law. Along with the most significant expansion of health care and benefits in more than a century, Section 804 of the PACT Act, known as the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, authorizes veterans and military families who were exposed to toxic water at Camp Lejeune from August 1953 to December 1987 to file a federal tort claim for harm caused by such exposure.

“Since the PACT Act added another recourse for veterans and their families suffering the effects of toxic exposure at Camp Lejeune, getting the right legal advice is crucial,” added Borland. “That’s why we turned to our long-trusted relationship with Bergmann & Moore to provide the best counsel possible for those we assist.”

The VFW cautions its members and supporters to avoid predatory law firms advertising endlessly on television and other media. To assist those who wish to join the Camp Lejeune Justice Act lawsuit determine if a law firm has their best interest at heart, the VFW has established six guiding principles. Bergmann & Moore has a proven track record of treating our members honestly and fairly and has agreed to (1) cap attorney fees at a reasonable rate, (2) no upfront costs, (3) work with the VFW to ensure veterans explore their earned Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits, (4) counsel claimant on the impact of the offset included in the Camp Lejeune Justice Act before accepting an award, (5) encourage VFW membership to eligible veterans, and (6) provide resources to support the VFW Service Officer Program.

“The goal of the agreement between VFW and Bergmann & Moore is to ensure VFW members who file a Camp Lejeune claim receive the greatest benefit and understand what they may be giving up as a result of any offset,” said Glenn Bergmann, Bergmann & Moore’s Managing Partner. “The Camp Lejeune Justice Act contains broad offset language that no one is talking about. Understanding whether an award under the CLJA will result in an offset of VA care or benefits will allow VFW members to make an informed decision before they accept the one-time benefit.”

To date there are differing opinions on the meaning of the offset language. The VA is expected to release regulations related to this in the coming months. The VFW continues to encourage its members and supporters to consult with a VFW-Accredited Service Officer to determine whether filing a lawsuit is the right step for them. This includes determining how the offset required by the law impacts their VA benefits and any possible award from a Camp Lejeune Justice Act claim. 

The Camp Lejeune Justice Act potentially offers historic benefits to veterans and their families.  However, these benefits need to be carefully evaluated by a firm that understands VA disability benefits. The VFW encourages anyone who served or lived at Camp Lejeune from Aug. 1, 1953, to Dec. 31, 1987, to visit vfw.org/CampLejeuneHelp or call 800-898-9450.

 

-vfw-

 

About the VFW: The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. is the nation's largest and oldest major war veterans organization. Founded in 1899, the congressionally chartered VFW is comprised entirely of eligible veterans and military service members from the active, Guard and Reserve forces. With more than 1.5 million VFW and Auxiliary members located in nearly 6,000 Posts worldwide, the nonprofit veterans service organization is proud to proclaim “NO ONE DOES MORE FOR VETERANS” than the VFW, which is dedicated to veterans’ service, legislative advocacy, and military and community service programs. For more information, or to join, visit our website at vfw.org

 


The quarterly VFW Department of Virginia Newsletter has been published. To open the full 20 page PDF file, click on the image below.



VFW Youth Contest Prizes Grow as Deadline Approaches
Entries for the Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen contests are due by Oct. 31


KANSAS CITY, Mo. (Sept. 8, 2022) –
The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) is pleased to announce an additional $15,000 will be awarded to the top three Voice of Democracy national winners for the 2022-23 contest. The national first place prize has increased to $35,000, with second and third place national winners now taking home $21,000 and $15,000 respectfully.

 

Deadlines for the VFW’s annual youth scholarship contests are fast approaching. Entries for the Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen essay competitions must be received by a local participating VFW Post no later than Oct. 31.

 

Dedicated to encouraging a better understanding and appreciation of America, the VFW’s Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen essay competitions help foster patriotism among today’s youth. The popular contests also promote friendly competition and reward success in the form of more than $3 million in combined scholarships at the local, state and national levels.

 

The Voice of Democracy audio-essay competition is open to all ninth-12th grade students, with this year’s theme asking students “Why is the Veteran Important?” Annually, more than 25,000 students compete in the competition. Daniela Mare, a junior at Sachem High School North in Lake Ronkonkoma, New York, was named the 2021-2022 Voice of Democracy first place winner. Sponsored by VFW Post 9486 and its Auxiliary in Centereach, New York, she delivered her essay in front of the Statue of Liberty during this year’s virtual Parade of Winners ceremony.

 

Open to eligible sixth, seventh and eighth grade students, this year’s Patriot’s Pen theme asks students to reflect and expand on “My Pledge to Our Veterans.” Syed Ali, an eighth grade student from Lafayette, Louisiana, was named the 2021-2022 Patriot's Pen first place winner. He was sponsored by VFW Post 1982 in New Iberia, Louisiana. He also delivered his winning essay at the annual Parade of Winner’s ceremony. 

 

Student entries, accompanied with a completed entry form, must be submitted to a local participating VFW Post. The deadline for both contests is Oct. 31, 2022.

 

Find your local VFW Post, or read more about the competitions. Additional information can be found further down this page. 

 

VIRGINIA VETERANS AFFAIRS REPRESENTATIVE -

NEW LOCATION AS OF FALL 2022

State Veterans Services had moved as of Summer, 2022. Services are now available at the office in Pembroke Bldg 5, 293 North Independence Blvd, Suite 109, Virginia Beach VA 23462, (757) 552-1884, Fax 757-552-1882. You can also contact the Dept of VA concerning your VA questions and concerns at 1-800-827-1000 or click this link for full information: https://www.dvs.virginia.gov/dvs/locations/virginia-beach-field-office

 

Korean War Legacy Foundation

 

Greetings, 

We hope this email finds you, your family, and the members of your organization well.  Please allow us, at the Korean War Legacy Foundation, to reintroduce ourselves.  Our goal at KWLF, https://koreanwarlegacy.org/about-us/, is to preserve the memory and legacy of the Korean War so that future generations will understand the sacrifices that Korean War veterans made during the war in order to promote democracy and freedom.  

Our organization strives to preserve the memory of the Korean War and those who fought in it.  With this goal in mind, our newest project, THE 22  https://the22koreanwar.org/ , is a website designed to create an online community that honors and memorializes the service of all those who fought in the Korean War.  We hope to have profiles from all 22 participating nations in the war and eventually create lesson plans so that the Korean War has its rightful place in history classes across the country. 

We would like to invite you and your members to not only visit the website, but also create profiles to honor the heroes in your organization.  At KWLF we often feature these profiles on our Facebook page, and we plan on highlighting many of them at the Korean War Veterans Memorial Wall of Remembrance Dedication Ceremony this July in Washington D.C. 

We are aware that the new Korean War Veterans Memorial Wall of Remembrance might be inaccessible to many vets, and we hope that our site, THE 22, will serve as an extension of the memorial to honor both fallen soldiers and all others who served.  Please know that we are a non-profit organization and will never charge or solicit anyone on our websites.  Creation of profiles on THE 22  https://the22koreanwar.org/  is free and advertisement free.  We hope to highlight the VFW Chapter with the most profiles on our website and email blasts. 

Should you have any questions, we would be happy to help you navigate our websites.  

We thank you for your service and dedication to veterans,

Michelle Penyy

Click the image below to open to a PDF file with instructions and live links.

 

 

Quilts of Valor

VFW Post 392, June 20th, 2022

On June 20th, 2022, VFW Post 392 hosted the Patriots Triangle Quilts of Valor group from Williamsburg, VA. We had 15 members and guest sewing new quilts, and also had another ceremony where 4 of our members received a QOV, along with 6 other guests. It was a great day as Post 392 members Ken Macdonald, Patrick Doyle, Tom McGowan, and John Phillips, who each served in the Vietnam area of operations during the Vietnam War, each received a custom made Quilt of Valor. Congrats to them and all the recipients that day. You can click each thumbnail below to see a full size image of the photo.

Boy Scout Troop 71 Eagle Scout Project

US Flag Retirement Ceremony

May 31st, 2022

 

What an honor for Post 392 Commander Troy Wagers and Auxiliary President Dinah Doyle to be able to be part of the flag retirement ceremony during an Eagle Scout Project with Boy Scout Troop 791..thank you and what a GREAT Day!!!

 

Vietnam Veterans Pinning Ceremony

March 29, 2022 from 11AM-12PM

Greetings Comrades,

There will be a program at the Virginia War Memorial on March 29, 2022 from 11AM-12PM to honor all Vietnam Veterans.  They will be honoring you and pining on a pin to honor your service in Vietnam.  I will be giving the Invocation at that event. Below is some additional information about the event.  

The Vietnam Veterans Pinning Ceremony will be held March 29, 2022 from 11:00 – 12:00 at the Virginia War Memorial.  March 29th is National Vietnam Veterans Day and Vietnam War Veterans Day in Virginia, a day to honor the men and women who served and sacrificed during the Vietnam War. All Vietnam era Veterans attending the ceremony will receive a pin, honoring their service.

 

We want to recognize as many Vietnam Veterans as possible and ask that you help us spread the word, through your organizations, about this special upcoming event. More information can be found on the Virginia War Memorial Webpage Vietnam Veterans Pinning Ceremony | Virginia War Memorial (vawarmemorial.org)

 

I hope to see you there.  You are long over due to be recognized for your service.

 

Yours in service,

Harold Sayles, Ph.D.

National Chaplain & State Chaplain

Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States

NOTE: IF YOU WERE UNABLE TO MAKE IT TO THIS CEREMONY, YOU CAN CHECK WITH YOUR LOCAL VFW POST COMMANDER TO SEE IF PINS ARE STILL AVAILABLE FOR PRESENTATION TO OUR VIETNAM VETERANS OR THEIR SURVIVING SPOUSES. WE WISH TO ENSURE THAT ALL VIETNAM VETS ARE RECOGNIZED WITH THESE PINS. 

 

SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION UPDATES FOR  APRIL/MAY 2022 - PLEASE REVIEW

THE SOCIAL SECURITY UPDATES HAVE BEEN RELOCATED TO A SEPARATE PAGE. FOR UPCOMING SSA ONLINE AND IN PERSON EVENTS, CLICK HERE.

 

THE 2022 COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARDS CEREMONY WAS HELD ON APRIL 21ST. TO SEE THE REPORT AND PHOTOS, CLICK HERE.

 

SCOUT OF THE YEAR AWARD

YOUNG AMERICAN CREATIVE PATRIOTIC ART

SCHOLARSHIP CONTEST

This is a reminder that the Scout of the Year Award and the Young American Creative Patriotic Art Contest deadline date for entry will come due in the new year.

 

For the Scout of the Year Award, annually, the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States awards three individuals.  These individuals can be Eagle Scouts, Girl Scout Gold Award recipients, Venture Summit Award recipients and/or Sea Scout Quartermasters who have risen above their peers in illustrating the qualities of that rank. Entry to this contest is now Open.

To be eligible for the award, the candidate must:

·       Be the recipient of the Eagle Scout Award, Girl Scout Gold Award, Venture Summit Award or Sea Scout Quartermaster Award.

·       Be a registered, active member of a Boy or Girl Scout Troop, Venturing Crew or Sea Scout Ship at the time the above award was received.

·       Have demonstrated exemplary citizenship in school, Scouting and community.

While there is no minimum age requirement (as along as all other eligibility criteria have been met), the maximum age requirement is 18 years old.  If an applicant reaches their 18th birthday during the nomination year, they remain eligible as long as they are still in high school at the time of the submission deadline of March 1, 2023.

 

It should also be noted that the student does not have to be a military dependent, nor do they need to be related to a VFW or VFW Auxiliary member to participate in this program.  

Documentation Required:

1.   A 3 x 5 picture of the Scout in full uniform.

2.   School Participation Record – single page, one-sided resume indicating your academic achievements, offices held, honors received and significant participation in other activities.

3.   Scouting Record – three pages maximum, one-sided only. Starting from the beginning of your scouting career.

4.   Community Service Record – single page, one-sided resume listing participation in community and religious service organizations (excluding Scouting and school), noting leadership positions held and any recognition received.

5.   Letters of Recommendation – submit three letters no more than two pages in length from:

§    A scout leader.

§    A community member.

§    A teacher/faculty member (if homeschooled, a parent letter is

allowed).

             §    In addition, you may include one or two additional letters, no more than two pages in length from local community members who have special knowledge of the candidate’s abilities/accomplishments.

6.   Completed Entry Form, which contains the complete rules and eligibility requirements can be found at www.vfw.org/community/youth-and-education/scout-of-the-year or by contacting me direct at cjmitchell02531@gmail.com.

Awards are as follows:

$5,000 1st Place National Scholarship

$3,000 2nd Place National Scholarship

$1,000 3rd Place National Scholarship

An entry form must be submitted to VFW Post 392 by no later than March 1, 2023.  Once received, it will then be advanced to state for judging.  If you are chosen to represent the state, your entry form will then advance to National for judging.

In addition to the awards available at the National level as shown above, the individual who is chosen as Post 392’s Scout of the Year will receive an award of $400 at a ceremony held in the Spring of 2022.

 

For the Young American Creative Patriotic Art Contest, this is a reminder that the deadline for entering is March 31, 2023.

 

The scholarship is open to all students in grades 9 to 12, providing they are a U.S. citizen or U.S. national.  The student does not have to be a military dependent, nor do they need to be related to a VFW or VFW Auxiliary member to participate. 

Two-and three-dimensional art is acceptable.  Digital art, photography and jewelry are NOT ACCEPTED.

 

To enter, you submit your application (and artwork) to your local VFW Post, which in this case would be VFW Post 392, Virginia Beach.  Judging will commence immediately following the deadline date.  If chosen as Post 392’s first-place winner, your entry will advance to State, where it will again be judged.  If chosen to represent State, your entry will then advance for judging at the National level.

 

The following is a picture from the first-place national winner from the 2020-2021 year.  The winning prize was $15,000. 

A picture containing text, person, indoor

This was drawn using Acrylic Paint by an 11th Grade student from Bellevue, Washington.

 

For those who make it to the National level, listed below are the awards the top twelve-place winners will receive:

First Place:  $15,000 Award

Second Place: $7,500 Award

Third Place:  $3,500 Award

Fourth-Fifth Place: $1,500 Award

Sixth Place - $1,000 Award

Seventh-Twelfth Place:  $500 Award

 

If you need an entry form, go to www.vfwauxiliary.org/scholarships, scroll down and click on the Young American Creative Patriotic Art Contest.  The entry form sets out the complete rules and eligibility requirements.  You may also contact me for the entry form at cjmitchell02531@gmail.com.

 

As mentioned above, Post 392 judges the artwork for advancing the first-place winner onto State.  Aside from this, Post 392 also chooses a second and third-place winner for the Post level only.  If chosen as Post 392’s first, second and third-place winner, you will receive an award of $300, $200, and $100, respectively, at an Award Ceremony held in the Spring of 2022.

 

Again, the entry form for Scout of the Year must be submitted to VFW Post 392 by no later than March 1, 2023.

 

The entry form of the Young American Creative Patriotic Art contest must be submitted to VFW Post 392 by no later than March 31, 2023.

 

The address to forward your entry form is as follows:

 

VFW Post 392

Attn:  Scholarships

2408 Bowland Parkway

Virginia Beach, VA  23454

 

You may either mail or drop off your entry form.  If mailing, please be sure you give your entry form plenty of time to arrive.  If received after March 1, or 31, respectively, it cannot be accepted.  Should you decide to drop your entry off, the Post is open seven days a week and is open from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.  If directions are needed, the Post telephone number is (757) 486-5875.

 

Connie J. Mitchell

Scholarship Chairman

VFW Post 392 Auxiliary

 

Youth Scholarships - Voice of Democracy and Patriot's Pen (Click here to view on VFW Website)

The VFW is dedicated to promoting patriotism and investing in our future generation. If you are a democracy-loving high school student interested in a $30,000 college scholarship or a patriotic middle school student interested in winning $5,000, these scholarships may be for you.

Voice of Democracy

Established in 1947, our Voice of Democracy audio-essay program provides high school students with the unique opportunity to express themselves in regards to a democratic and patriotic-themed recorded essay.  Each year, nearly 25,000 9-12 grade students from across the country enter to win their share of more than $2 million in educational scholarships and incentives awarded through the program. 

The national first place winner receives a $30,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient’s American university, college or vocational/technical school. A complete list of other national scholarships range from $1,000-$16,000, and the first place winner from each VFW Department (state) wins at least a scholarship of $1,000. Before submitting your essay, read the rules and eligibility requirements, and find your sponsoring local VFW Post as applications must be turned in by midnight, Oct. 31.2022. Download and complete the 2022-2023 Voice of Democracy entry form here.

Entry to this contest is now open for 2022-2023!!

 

The 2022-2023 theme is: 
America: Why is the Veteran Important?

 

About the 2021-2022 winner ...

Daniela Mare, a junior at Sachem High School North in Lake Ronkonkoma, New York, was named the 2021-2022 Voice of Democracy first place winner. Daniela's speech on the theme, "America: Where Do We Go from Here?" won her a $30,000 college scholarship. Daniela VFW Post 9486 and its Auxiliary in Centereach, New York. Watch as Daniela delivered her speech during the VFW's virtual Parade of Winners award ceremony.

Want to catch up on everything that happened this year? You can watch the full virtual Parade of Winners ceremony which was streamed live on Facebook, or see this year's complete list of winners.

 

Patriot's Pen

Each year more than 68,800 students in grades 6-8 enter the VFW’s Patriot’s Pen youth essay contest for a chance to win their share of more than $1.4 million in state and national awards. Each first place state winner receives a minimum of $500 at the national level, and the national first place winner wins $5,000! 

The essay contest encourages young minds to examine America’s history, along with their own experiences in modern American society, by drafting a 300- to 400-word essay, expressing their views based on a patriotic theme chosen by the VFW Commander-in-Chief. Before submitting your essay, read the rules and eligibility requirements, and find your sponsoring local VFW Post as applications must be turned in by midnight, Oct. 31, 2022. Download and complete the 2022-2023 entry form here

Entry to this contest is now open for 2022-2023!

About the 2021-2022 winner ...

Syed Ali, an eighth grade student from Lafayette, Louisiana, was named the 2021-2022 Patriot's Pen first place winner. His essay on the theme, "How Can I Be a Good American?" won him a $5,000 award. Syed was sponsored by New Iberia, Louisiana, VFW Post 1982.

Watch as Syed delivered his winning essay, during the VFW's virtual Parade of Winners streamed live on Facebook, or see the complete list of 2022 national winners.

 

The 2021-22 theme is: 
My Pledge to our Veterans

 

Attention Teachers! 

NASSP Logo

 

Get Acquainted with VFW's Programs

National Scholarship Programs Brochure

FULL INFORMATION FOR ALL THREE PROGRAMS CAN BE FOUND BY CLICKING THIS LINK: https://www.vfw.org/community/youth-and-education/youth-scholarships

 

UPDATES

Almost a century ago, the VFW National Home for Children began as a place where families left behind by war could remain together. Today, the National Home has evolved to meet the changing needs of America’s military and veterans’ families.

 

 

The Public can now lay flowers on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery for the first time in 100 years.

Click this link for further information.

 

 

BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA > 2020 > News Release: VFW Post 392 and Tidewater Council, Boy Scouts of America Partner for a Retirement for Flags

 

News Release: VFW Post 392 and Tidewater Council, Boy Scouts of America Partner for a Retirement for Flags

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 28, 2020

For more information contact:
Alison Harrison, Assoc. Development Director of Tidewater Council, Boy Scouts of America, 757-497-2688 ext. 372

VFW POST 392 AND TIDEWATER COUNCIL, BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA PARTNER FOR A RETIREMENT FOR FLAGS

Virginia Beach, VA – Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 392 in Virginia Beach held a Retirement for Flags on Sunday, February 16, 2020. Retired flags are tattered, torn, or damaged in some way and are burned when they are turned into the VFW Post for retirement. Approximately 100 flags were retired on February 16.

Post Commander Neil Siegfried and Senior Vice Commander John W. Flavin organized the program. Three groups of NJROTC students were present, along with four Tidewater Council Scouts from Troop 499 in Virginia Beach and one Scout from Troop 164 in Edenton, NC. Many VFW Post 392 members and Auxiliary members were also in attendance.

It was an inspiring ceremony with all Scouts, NJROTC students, and adults taking part in the program. Troop 499 Scoutmaster B.J. Allen did part of the readings, which included excerpts from previous speeches regarding the flag, given by past Presidents. Scout members present were Zachary A., Baran O., Leo H., and Nixon T., from BSA Troop 499 and Ethan T. from Troop 164.

Some of the flags were in strips with the blue field removed and burned separately, while some were small and burned as a whole. The line of people carrying the flags to the burn location was impressive. At the burn location, a VFW Post member was at the ready with a final salute for each flag.

About the Veterans of Foreign Wars
Founded in 1899, the VFW is an organization of war veterans committed to ensuring rights, remembering sacrifices, promoting patriotism, performing community services and advocating for a strong national defense.

About Tidewater Council, Boy Scouts of America
Tidewater Council is the 5th oldest Boy Scouts of America council in the United States, established in 1911. Today, the council serves over 5,300 youth and 2,400 adult volunteers in the Virginia cities of Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Virginia Beach, as well as the North Carolina counties of Camden, Chowan, Currituck, Dare, Gates, Pasquotank, and Perquimans. Boy Scouts of America is one of the world’s largest youth organizations. More information about Tidewater Council, Boy Scouts of America is available by visiting www.tidewaterbsa.com, emailing james.parnell@scouting.org, or calling 757-497-2688.

Changes to TRICARE

Updated December 2021

Starting January 1, 2021, there were some changes to your TRICARE benefits. 

The following will remain the same:

  • TRICARE will continue to offer several different health plans, but will now require some subscribers to pay a subscription fee.
  • All plans meet or exceed the requirements for minimal essential coverage under the Affordable Care Act.
  • Plan availability depends on who you are and where you live.
  • PLEASE NOTE THAT ON DEC 15, 2021, TRICARE WILL MAKE CHANGES IN PHARMACIES SERVING THE PROGRAM. BE SURE TO VERIFY IF YOUR PHARMACY WILL BE IMPACTED!!!
  • What are the copayment changes as of January 1, 2022?
    • Generic formulary drugs will increase from $10 to $12.
    • Brand-name formulary drugs will increase from $29 to $34.
    • Non-formulary drugs will increase from $60 to $68.
    For full information on the changes, go to https://tricare.mil/changes

Copyright © 2010-2023 Veterans of the Foreign Wars of the United States and Veterans of the Foreign Wars of the United States Post 392.
All rights reserved. Privacy Policy