VVA Michigan State Council

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VIETNAM VETERANS OF AMERICA

MICHIGAN STATE COUNCIL

Plymouth VFW 6695

Plymouth-Canton Chapter 528

General Membership Meeting

March 3, 2024

Call to Order: The meeting was called to order by President John Riling, in Plymouth, Michigan at 10:00 AM. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, a moment of silence was observed for the POW-MIAs and those serving in harm’s way with the opening prayer by Tom Meinhardt.

National Anthem sung by 528 AVVA member Dennis Waling.

Approval of the Agenda: Motion by 1083/154 to accept the agenda as printed, motion passed.

Approval of the minutes: Motion 9/313 to approve the minutes of 12/03/23, motion passed.

Introduction of guests: Chapter 528; Bob Dew, Ron King, Terry Wells, John Spencer,

Rick Waling, Mike Schlott, AVVA 528 – Dennis Waling, Norma Demerly, Bryan Bentley

Chapter 267: Jim Walker

Canadian veterans: “Canadian Vietnam Veterans Memorial Association” & “North Wall Riders Association” who are working on the Be Counted project. Mike Soucie, Keith Tracy, CJ Scott,

Ron Bisnaire, Paul Lauzon, Tom Miller, Jim Scherpe, Bonnie Burian

Congresswoman Debbie Dingell was unable to attend our meeting as she was required to be in Washington DC per President Biden’s request to work on the budget. POTUS bumped us.

John is making arrangements for her to receive the VVA Honorary Life Membership and Achievement Award for her contributions in support of veterans at the April National BOD.

Roll Call of Officers:

President John Riling - Present

Vice-President Ken Rogge – Excused Secretary Gary Estermyer - Present

2^nd Vice President Duke Mayo – Present Treasurer Floyd Carmichael - Present

Roll Call of Chapters: 9 Jack Devine P, 18 Tom Sibley A, 31 E, 73 Bob Elliot A,

109 John Gibbs P, 110 Ralph Sharp A, 133 Tom Romein P, 142 Michael Goode P,

154 Steve Bago P, 175 Joe Mishler A, 180 Joe Coullard E, 237 Jerry Cummings A,

259 Mike Goodpaster P, 264 Ronald Schrieber A, 267 Phil Smith P, 274 Duke Mayo P,

284 Dennis Bringard A, 287 David Huffman A, 310 Tim Driscoll P, 313 Terry Ivey P,

380 Vic Romback E, 387 A, 390 Charlie Martin A, 494 A, 528 Ron King P,

571 Dennis Peterson A, 583 Wayne Trapp A, 882 Terry Frank A, 1047 Joe Prato E and

1083 Tom Meinhardt P

Present – 12 Absent – 14 Excused – 4 A quorum is present.

President’s Report (given after Treasurer report): John welcomed everyone to the VFW 6695 hall in Plymouth for this meeting. He thanked Plymouth-Canton Chapter 528 for hosting and asked 1^st VP Bob Dew to say a few words. John attended the CSCP and National BOD meetings in January as well as chairing the National Veterans Benefit Program meetings. He will be attending those April meetings next month as well.

John also reported that the law firm Bergman & Moore has now been retained by VVA National to handle all the appellate claim work. Seven attorneys and staff have been terminated.

John, Gary Estermyer and Jack Devine will be attending the May 1-3, 2024 MVAA Leadership Summit in Detroit. John also spoke about the upcoming MSC Convention in Marquette.

The National Leadership Conference in August is something to plan for. Room rates at the Silver Legacy are $49 + taxes on Monday-Thursday and $149 + taxes on Friday-Saturday!

Further Leadership details will soon be available at www.vva.org and in VVA Veteran.

There is a free airport shuttle and Bergman & Moore will be offering advanced VSO training.

1^st Vice-President’s report: John gave the membership report, see Committee Reports.

2^nd Vice-President’s report: Duke Mayo announced that he continues to reach out to northern chapters including the Petoskey area and those in the UP. Duke also attended the funeral of Chapter 274’s 1^st Vice President Neil Hartwick.

Secretary's Report: Gary Estermyer discussed the upcoming MSC Convention and the flyers he had available which includes; hotel reservation form, banquet/luncheon reservation form and most importantly the ad book flyer. All chapters are strongly encouraged to help buy & sell ads to help offset convention expenses. MOH recipient James McCloughan and Lt Gen “Jack” Bergman have been invited to attend and speak to our members. A flag retirement ceremony will take place at Chapter 380 HQ (down the road from Holiday Inn) Friday evening, May 31

and on Saturday, 1:00 PM Sandie Wilson will speak at a Military Toxic Exposure Seminar.

Our Saturday evening banquet will feature MOH James C. McCloughan and Lt Gen (ret) “Jack” Bergman, USMC Vietnam veteran and current Congressman, Michigan District 1.

Gary has listed the chapters that will be holding elections next month, see New Business.

Gary had emailed blank chapter election and finance reports to all those chapters. Copies of the forms are available today also. As the delegates should know, the official deadline for filing both election and finance reports to National and MSC is July 15, 2024. He will be updating the chapter contact list as reports are received. Feel free to bring a copy of your chapter reports to our next meeting on June 2, 2024, in Marquette.

Treasurer's Report: Floyd Carmichael reviewed the finance report dated 12/04/23 – 03/01/24. He had transferred $30,000 from the General Fund to the VSO account due to the State being slow in their monthly processing. He also has received funds from the car program and the VVA National VSO grant. The SC bills are being paid in a timely manner and the monthly deposits of random donations continue. Floyd reminded the delegates that all chapters need to submit their annual finance report to MSC and to National by July 15.

If your chapter treasurer has questions simply contact Floyd at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Announcements: Tim Driscoll, Charles S. Kettles Chapter 310, announced that due to their efforts a section of I-94 has been renamed “Washtenaw County Vietnam Veterans Memorial Highway” to honor the 76 county veterans who died in Vietnam and the 2 MIA’s. Dedication

will take place @ the Washtenaw County Vietnam Memorial on March 29th at 10:00 AM.

Mike Goodpaster, president of Downriver Chapter 259 announced a March 29^th “National Vietnam War Veterans Day” ceremony in Wyandotte at 6:00 PM.
Jim Walker, Dearborn Chapter 267 announced the 2024 Michigan Kidney Walk at the Detroit Zoo event on Sunday, May 19, 7:30 AM – 10:00 AM. Joint sponsorship opportunity for a table was discussed as kidney disease can in some cases be linked to agent orange exposure. A 3-way agreement was proposed and agreed upon; $300 from MSC (VSO Program), $300 from Chapter 528, $300 from Dearborn Chapter 267 and $100 from a 267 member.
Warriors and Caregivers United (WACU), www.wacu.org, will be having a live auction fundraiser on May 17^th, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM, at the Ypsilanti Depot Town Freighthouse.

Tickets are $15 at the door or advance tickets are $20 which includes ½ off a meal at the

Sidetrack Bar & Grill from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM only, booze not included.

Two former Miss Michigan musicians will be there to sing & entertain.

Check out the website or call John K. for further details, (734) 645-8647.

Duke announced that Cheboygan Chapter 274 will be selling raffle tickets in June.

Committee Reports:

Agent Orange: Sandie reported that AO Town Hall notices will be posted on the www.vva.org website under EVENTS, which will be more user friendly. Sandie will hold a “Military Toxic Exposure Seminar” on June 1 in Marquette. She passed out National Birth Defect Registry business cards with a QR code on the back. More affected Vietnam veteran families should register with this 1^st of a kind agency. The website of; https://birthdefects.org/veterans-research/ may be used to submit your child’s case. Sandie continues to monitor the child autism issue in which studies show Tylenol taken during pregnancy contributes to this disease.

There are currently 19 additional A.O. presumptive issues for women veterans. Research is ongoing on whether some of those conditions also apply to men. Ranch Hand study (Air Force) of veteran samples still remains an issue as well.

Government Affairs: Jack Devine reported the 2024 MVAA Leadership Summit will be held May 1-3, at the DTE building in Detroit. There will be 8 sessions, similar to last year which included; Keynote speaker, Veterans Benefits, Networking with Veteran Service Providers, Working with your Legislators, Aiming for Zero (suicide prevention), What’s Next, VEO & Building Communities, Underserved Veteran Populations in Michigan (The Big Picture) and Aligning Focus (Building veteran-friendly communities).

Jack has also been made aware of “National Lifers of America” an incarcerated group.

Jack announced Senate 22 and House Bill 7333 have been introduced to rename the W. Palm Beach VA Medical Center to Thomas H. Corey. Michigan support is encouraged. In Michigan boiler-plate language has been submitted to increase the Coalition budget by $500,000.00.

At the VVA National level, Jack is chairing the Legacy Task Force committee.

Membership: January National Membership Affairs report; 91,092 total VVA membership, 12,183 in Region 5, 4,889 in Michigan, Chapter 154 still holding down 5^th with 810 members.

Dual AVVA/VVA memberships were at 784.

Chapters are supposed to report to National their deceased members.

Missing In America: Phil Smith reported Stinson Funeral Home apparently took some unclaimed veteran cremains to GLNC. He is attempting to confirm this.

National Cemetery: Floyd Carmichael reported a current total of 44,350 burials at Ft. Custer. Ft. Custer’s new director, Rodney Heard is working out well. The AmVets bell tower has recently been fixed. All the cemetery roads are to be repaved, expansion plans may include space for an additional 3-4,000 casketed gravesites and 4-6,000 cremains. Another committal shelter and a maintenance garage are also planned to be built. Floyd continues to volunteer on Tuesday’s at Ft. Custer where he has accumulated over 5,600 volunteer hours and over 20 years on their Honor Guard. 1,400 wreaths were laid during Wreaths Across America.

Tom Meinhardt reported that GLNC new total of interments since opening is 62,855. 962 this FY and 236 in the month of January. GLNC will be switching over to all-weather flags soon.

Approximately 24,000 wreaths were laid for the Wreaths Across America project.

A fundraising golf outing event is planned for August 24, 2024 in Lapeer.

POW-MIA: 1,577 - RVN & surrounding SE Asia area.

Floyd reported that 5 sets of WWII and 1set of Korea remains have recently been identified.

It’s not clear how many Canadian Vietnam veterans may have been POW-MIA.

Product Sales: John Riling is looking at options of shipping product inventory to Reno.

“My Exchange” is a good site to check out for flags.

PTSD / Veterans Health Care: Sandie Wilson announced that PTSD remains a major problem with all veteran age groups however the VA claims they can treat PTSD patients in 13 visits.

Veteran’s with asbestos related health issues should file a claim with the VA and consider joining the class action lawsuit. The Women’s Center at the AAVA is to be dedicated soon.

Phil needs a letter from MSC to name a VVA Detroit VAVS representative.

The Detroit VAMC is completing a 16 suite Fisher House build on Woodward Avenue, north of W. Grand Blvd. and just 2 miles from the John Dingell VA Hospital.

Veteran’s Benefits / Service Program: Gary Estermyer reported that we have 14 accredited staff; 11 service officers, 2 admin. and 1 Director/CVSO. Gary is to step down as Director to Asst. Director position and Rob Lichy will become the new Director.

Recoveries: FY22 - $15,721,015 FY 23 - $11,218,931+ FY 24 - $5,668,674

Nov - $2,240,174 Dec - $1,595,201 Jan - $1,833,299

Detroit RO, McNamara Building, 477 Michigan Avenue, Room 1226, Detroit 48226 is open

with appointments preferred (313) 961-9568 for hearings and face-to-face meetings.

Our service officers have been participating in many VA PACT Act events state-wide.

The entire staff is expected to attend VSO advanced training in Reno this August.

Veteran’s Incarcerated and in the Justice System: Phil Smith reported there are now 28 Veterans Treatment Courts in MI and more are needed.

AVVA: Penny Meinhardt has attempted to invite all Michigan AVVA members to attend the convention in Marquette.

New Business:

Keith Tracy spoke about their efforts to locate and invite all those Canadians who served in the US Armed Forces during Vietnam to the 30^th Annual Memorial service in Windsor on 07/06/25.

Information/registration can be found at; www.canadiansinvietnam.com/be.counted or call, Keith Tracy at 519-796-1452 or CJ Scott 519-259-7555 regarding the “Be Counted” project.

Discussion was held, Motion 1083/142 to hold MSC meetings on Saturday’s @ 1:00 PM.

Motion passed and this will take effect on the Sep/Oct 2024 meeting.

Discussion was held, Motion 154/313 for the MSC to meet 4 times yearly, motion passed.

AVVA & VVA upcoming meetings & events:

April 2024 – Chapter elections

April 18-20, 2024 – VVA National BOD/CSCP/Veterans Benefit Committee meeting,

Double Tree Hotel, 8777 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring, MD

May 31, 2024 – Flag retirement ceremony, Chapter 380 building, Marquette, MI

June 1, 2024 - Opening ceremony (time TBD)

Military Toxic Exposure Seminar, Holiday Inn, 1:00 PM

Banquet, Holiday Inn, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM

June 2, 2024 - VVA & AVVA Annual/Election meeting, 10:00 AM

1951 US 41 West, Marquette, MI (906) 225-1351

August 20-24, 2024 – National Leadership Conference, Silver Legacy, Reno, NV

Sep/Oct, 2024 – VVA & AVVA general membership meetings (date & location TBD)

December 1, 2024 – VVA & AVVA general membership / Christmas luncheon

(date & location TBD)

August 5-9, 2025 – National VVA Convention – New Orleans, LA, Marriott

Closing prayer Tom Meinhardt

Adjournment: 1:18 PM

Minutes taken by Secretary Gary Estermyer

_______________

Southgate, MI – Downriver Chapter 259

General Membership Meeting

December 3, 2023

Call to Order: The meeting was called to order by President John H. Riling at 10:00 AM.

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, a moment of silence was observed for the POW-MIAs and those serving in harm’s way with the opening prayer by Floyd Carmichael.

Posting of the Colors: Southgate JROTC

Approval of the Agenda: Motion by 528/154 to accept the agenda as printed, motion passed.

Approval of the minutes: Motion 267/528 to approve the minutes of 10/08/23, motion passed.

Introduction of guests: Jack McManus, Tom Burke, Pat Kline, Don Cannon,

Canadian Vietnam vets: Keith Tracy, Richard Gidner, Ron Diznar, Tom Eller, CJ Scott (friend)

Downriver Chapter 259: Craig Wilson, Ken Hunroe, Bob Ferstle, Bob Barley, Russ Hayward and Dave & Nancy Gyorke (KP duty today) and 259 AVVA member Rhonda Brown.

Roll Call of Officers:

President John Riling - Present

Vice-President Ken Rogge – Present Secretary Gary Estermyer - Present

2^nd Vice President Duke Mayo – Present Treasurer Floyd Carmichael - Present

Roll Call of Chapters: 9 Jack Devine P, 18 Tom Sibley A, 31 William Collins E,

73 Bob Elliot A, 109 John Gibbs E, 110 Ralph Sharp A, 133 Tom Romein P,

142 Don Cannon P, 154 Mike Schneider P, 175 Joe Mishler A, 180 Joe Coullard A,

237 Jerry Cummings A, 259 Mike Goodpaster P, 264 Ronald Schrieber A, 267 Phil Smith P,

274 Duke Mayo P, 284 Dennis Bringard A, 287 David Huffman A, 310 Tim Driscoll P,

313 Terry Ivey P, 380 Vic Romback E, 387 A, 390 Charlie Martin A, 494 A,

528 John Spencer P, 571 Dennis Peterson A, 583 Wayne Trapp A, 882 Terry Frank A,

1047 Joe Prato A and 1083 Tom Meinhardt E

Present – 10 Absent – 17 Excused – 3 A quorum is present.

President’s Report: John welcomed everyone and announced that VVA General Counsel Patricia Harris is now the Interim Director of the National Veterans Benefit Program. John will be attending the January 18-20, 2024 National BOD/CSCP meeting in Silver Spring, MD. As secretary of the Veterans Benefit Committee, Gary Estermyer will also be attending.

As Commander of the Commander’s Group in Michigan John will be attending their next meeting on December 11, 2023 along with Gary as the MSC secretary.

John spoke about the MSC 40^th anniversary dinner at Baldo’s Italian Restaurant last night.

In attendance was National President and former MSC President Jack McManus, National Vice President Tom Burke and his wife Robin, Pat Kline & Don Cannon former MSC presidents and members of chapters 142, 259, 267, 274, 310, 313, 528. The food and company was great.

John also announced that he had attended the Veterans Day ceremony at Ft. Custer National Cemetery in Agusta, MI under clear skies and enjoyed a nice lunch afterwards.

He also participated in a veteran’s program at an Ann Arbor senior facility called All Seasons.

John will be driving down to Ohio for their Christmas state council event next week and he’s leaving for Florida on December 21, 2023. John then began discussion on the June 1-2, 2024 MSC Annual/Election meeting in Marquette, MI. Most delegates in attendance indicated they would attend the meeting in Marquette. It is hopeful all the Upper Peninsula chapter will also make the drive over. Discussion began on inviting MOH recipient James McCloughan to speak at the MSC annual meeting. There are fees to be considered and finances were discussed.

MOTION by 310/528 to invite McCloughan, motion passed. Then there was discussion to also invite U.S. Representative John (Jack) Bergman, retired USMC General. MOTION 267/154 to invite Bergman, motion passed.

1^st Vice-President’s report: Ken Rogge announced that he has resolved the IT issues he was having with the MSC website www.vvamsc.org. Ken continues to welcome chapter articles, photographs and flyers of upcoming events.

The “Vietnam Veterans Michigan Foundation, Inc. (VVMFI) is open for accepting applications for assistance and Ken has a page on the website for the Foundation.

2^nd Vice-President’s report: Duke Mayo announced that he recently worked with two MI chapters that were on National’s suspended list and was able to get them on line. He continues to reach out to northern & UP Michigan chapters. Duke is recovering nicely from his hip surgery while continuing his rehab.

Secretary's Report: Gary Estermyer reported that according to his records there will be 22 chapters holding their elections next month in April. Gary will email and mail blank chapter election and finance reports to all those chapters. Copies of the forms are available today and they are available at www.vva.org also. As the delegates should know, the official deadline for filing both of these reports to National and MSC is July 15, 2024. Gary will be updating the chapter contact list as reports are received. Feel free to bring a copy of your chapter reports to our Annual meeting on June 2, 2024, in Marquette, MI.

Treasurer's Report: Floyd Carmichael reviewed the finance report dated 10/09/23 – 11/30/23. He had transferred $60,000 from the General Fund to the VSO account due to the State being slow in their monthly processing. VVMFI balance is now over $17K. The SC bills are being paid in a timely manner and the monthly deposits from National and random donations continue. One of the recent MSC raffle winners donated half of her $100.00 winnings back to MSC. Floyd reminded the delegates that all chapters need to submit their finance report annually to the State Council and to National by July 15.

If your chapter treasurer has questions simply contact Floyd at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

National VVA President: Jack McManus congratulated MSC for it’s 40^th anniversary. Jack was our 6^th MSC president serving from 1990-1995. He’s proud of our accomplishments and wishes us continued success. He’s received numerous suggestions for National to continue funding chapters and state councils. He has established a Legacy Task Force and named Jack Devine to chair that committee. He mentioned the upcoming VVA Leadership Conference in August in Reno and is hopeful for a better turnout than in 2022. The National staff will determine whether to continue the Leaderships beyond 2024 based upon the numbers.

National Vice President: Tom Burke welcomed everyone and he also congratulated us on 40 years of representing VVA in Michigan. Tom mentioned there have been some staff changes at National but changes are inevitable and we will work through them. Tom is very concerned about the VA benefit and hospital branches as the turnover is significant, read his article in the November/December issue of The VVA Veteran for further details on that. Tom confirmed that veteran benefits and legislative advocacy are very important to our legacy.

Canadian Vietnam Veterans: The Canadian veterans spoke about their roles building and maintaining the Canadian Memorial on Riverside Drive in Windsor. The Memorial was dedicated in July 1995 and the Canadian Vietnam Veterans Memorial Association (CVVMA) was founded. They estimate 40,000 Canadians, mostly men, served in the U.S. Armed Forces between 1959-1975. They have a mission to identify those veterans so they may be identified and given a proper “Welcome Home”. That project is called ‘Be Counted’ and they are seeking our help in locating those veterans. If you know a Canadian who is perhaps living in the states now please have them reach out to; www.canadiansinvietnam.com. They are also planning a 30^th Annual Memorial Service and rededication of the Canadian Vietnam Veterans Memorial on July 6, 2025. You may also contact; Keith Tracy – (519) 796-1452- This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or C.J. Scott – (519) 259-7555 – This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information.

Announcements:

Wreaths Across America – Saturday, December 16, 2023.

Without objection the MSC will donate 30 wreaths each for Fort Custer & GLNC and 15 wreaths for Grand Rapids Home for Veterans cemetery.

Committee Reports:

Constitution/Bylaws: Gary Estermyer announced the revised VVA constitution is now available @ www.vva.org. If any delegate wants to submit an amendment to the MSC bylaws they can do so at any time.

Election Committee: Jack Devine announced that he has recruited Phil Smith and Vic Romback to serve on the committee with him. He then opened nominations for officers;

President – John Riling, who accepted.

1^st Vice President – Mike Goodpaster, who accepted.

Tom Meinhardt, who was absent

2^nd Vice President – Duke Mayo, who accepted.

Secretary – Gary Estermyer, who accepted.

Treasurer – Floyd Carmichael, who accepted.

Nominations were then closed until the next meeting in March 2024.

Fundraising: Duke Mayo reported that MSC had a profit of $2,044.00 from the last raffle.

He is not confident we should pursue another similar raffle at this time. Any and all suggestions are welcome for another fundraiser. Gary spoke briefly about the www.charitymania.com fundraiser but that also mandates selling tickets and we don’t have much success in that area.

Government Affairs: Jack Devine reported on the upcoming MVAA Leadership Summit to be held May 1 - 3, 2024 in Detroit. Jack mentioned that as the chair of the National Legacy Task Force he wants to include BOD members and state council presidents on the committee.

Jack remains very active with the Commanders Group on the legislative affairs committee.

He announced that MVAA has a new director, Brian Love. It turns out the recent budget that was approved by the state included language that pulled funds out of the Coalition grant.

This shortage actually helps the argument that the grant should be increased $500,000 next FY.

The property tax waiver legislation also recently passed, improves the process for those entitled to that benefit.

Membership: Ken Rogge gave this report based on the recent October National Membership Affairs report; 90,979 total VVA membership, 12,170 in Region 5, 4,899 in Michigan.

Chapter 154 is now in 5^th place nationwide with 811 members.

Missing In America: Phil Smith reported that Stinson Funeral Home still has four unclaimed veteran cremains in their possession that they won’t release. The MSC sent them a letter in hopes of getting their cooperation but apparently to no avail.

National Cemetery: Floyd Carmichael reported he doesn’t have a current total of burials at

Ft. Custer but its approx. 43,000. Ft. Custer has a new director, Rodney Heard. All the cemetery roads are to be repaved, expansion plans may include space for an additional 3-3,500 casketed gravesites and 4-6,000 cremains. Another committal shelter and a maintenance garage are also planned to be built. Ft. Custer “Wreaths Across America” program is planned, Dec. 16^th.

POW-MIA: 1,578 - RVN & surrounding SE Asia area. Laos and Cambodia recovery missions are on going.

Product Sales: John Riling and his crew set up at the All Seasons facility but are done for the season now. John is seeking a reasonably priced vendor for a new MSC challenge coin.

V.A.V.S.: The program has been formally changed to “The Center of Development and Civic Engagement”. We will continue to recognize it as Veterans Affairs Voluntary Service. Phil Smith and Tim Driscoll reported that VA hospitals are open for visitation however masks are still required in the ICU areas. Volunteer hours should still be submitted to Phil and donations to Volunteer Services are always welcomed.

Veteran’s Benefits / Service Program: Gary Estermyer reported that we have 14 accredited staff; 11 service officers, 2 admin. and 1 Director/CVSO. The staff recently completed training at Higgins Lake and Gaylord. We’re looking forward to training in Reno during the August Leadership Conference in Reno, NV.

Recoveries: FY22 - $15,721,015 FY23 - $11,218,931+

July - $1,766,632 Aug. - $2,125,777 Sep. - $2,180,646 Oct. - $1,554,007

Detroit RO, McNamara Building, 477 Michigan Avenue, Room 1226, Detroit 48226 is open

with appointments preferred (313) 961-9568 for hearings and face-to-face meetings.

Our service officers continue to participate with the VA at PACT Act events statewide.

AVVA: Penny Meinhardt thanked everyone who supported their gift card fundraiser.

23 cards were donated which resulted in a $460.00 profit for them.

Life membership applications were submitted for the entire VSO staff.

New Business: According to the secretary’s records the following chapters will hold elections in April 2024: 9, 18, 73, 109, 142, 154, 175, 237, 259, 264, 284, 287, 310, 380, 387, 390, 494, 528,

571, 583, 882, 1083

AVVA & VVA upcoming meetings & events:

January 18-20, 2024 – VVA National BOD/CSCP/Veterans Benefit Committee meeting

Double Tree, 8777 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring, MD

March 3, 2024, 10:00 AM – VVA & AVVA general membership meetings

Plymouth-Canton Chapter 528 @ VFW Post 6695

1426 S. Mill Street, Plymouth, MI 48170

April 2024 – Chapter elections

June 1, 2024 – Possible A.O. Town Hall event, afternoon, Holiday Inn, Marquette, MI

Possible flag retirement ceremony, evening @ Chapter 380 HQ

June 2, 2024 – VVA & AVVA Annual/Election meeting

Holiday Inn, 1951 US 41 West, Marquette, MI (906) 225-1351

August 20-24, 2024 – National Leadership Conference, Silver Legacy, Reno, NV

August 5-9, 2025 – National VVA Convention – New Orleans, LA, Marriott

Closing prayer Floyd Carmichael

Adjournment: 12:35 PM

Minutes taken by Secretary Gary Estermyer

Red Roof Inn Comfort Inn Plymouth

39700 Ann Arbor Road 40455 Ann Arbor Road

Plymouth, MI 48170 Plymouth, MI 48170

734.459.3300 734.455.8100

Many other hotels in nearby Canton / Livonia area.

Chateau at Black Mountain

Cheboygan, MI – Chapter 274

General Membership Meeting

October 8, 2023

Call to Order: The meeting was called to order by 1^st Vice President Ken Rogge at 10:00 AM. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, a moment of silence was observed for the POW-MIAs and those serving in harm’s way with the opening prayer by Tom Meinhardt.

Approval of the Agenda: Motion by 180/310 to accept the agenda as printed, motion passed.

Approval of the minutes: Motion 267/1083 to approve the minutes of 07/23/23, motion passed.

Introduction of guests: Dan Ashcraft, former MSC vice president.

Roll Call of Officers:

President John Riling - Excused

Vice-President Ken Rogge – Present Secretary Gary Estermyer - Present

2^nd Vice President Duke Mayo – Present Treasurer Floyd Carmichael - Present

Roll Call of Chapters: 9 Dave Gurtowsky P, 18 Tom Sibley A, 31 William Collins A,

73 Bob Elliot A, 109 John Gibbs P, 110 Ralph Sharp A, 133 Tom Romein E,

142 Michael Goode A, 154 Steve Bago P, 175 Joe Mishler A, 180 Joe Coullard P,

237 Jerry Cummings A, 259 Mike Goodpaster E, 264 Ronald Schrieber A, 267 Phil Smith P,

274 Duke Mayo P, 284 Dennis Bringard A, 287 David Huffman A, 310 Tim Driscoll P,

313 Terry Ivey P, 380 Vic Romback P, 387 A, 390 Charlie Martin A, 494 A, 528 Gary Estermyer P, 571 Dennis Peterson A, 583 Wayne Trapp A, 882 Terry Frank A,

1047 Joe Prato A and 1083 Tom Meinhardt P

Present – 11 Absent – 17 Excused – 2 A quorum is present.

President’s Report (written report read by Ken Rogge, copy attached.)

1^st Vice-President’s report: Ken Rogge announced that in regard to the MSC website www.vvamsc.org he’s been dealing with additional IT issues (audio) as he’s now working with a new rebuilt computer. Ken continues to welcome chapter input as he works out the bugs.

The “Vietnam Veterans Michigan Foundation, Inc. (VVMFI) is open for accepting applications for assistance and Ken has a page on the website for the Foundation.

2^nd Vice-President’s report: Duke Mayo announced that he has attempted to reach out to northern & UP Michigan chapters. He was hopeful that Pat Kline of Petoskey would be at our meeting today, however Pat is a no show. Duke has some hip surgery scheduled next month so he’ll be slowed down for recovery and rehab. We all hope everything goes well.

Duke attended many convention meetings and in the Membership Affairs committee meeting he found it very interesting to read about the age groups of VVA members, copy of chart attached. Duke agreed the audio system in the main convention ballroom was terrible.

Secretary's Report: Gary Estermyer reported that he has not received chapter election reports from chapters 73, 175, 264, 287, 387 and 583. Some of those chapters may have sent National a copy but not the MSC secretary. As the delegates should know, the official deadline for filing the election and finance reports to National and MSC was July 15, 2023. Gary has been updating the chapter contact list as reports are received. If you haven’t already filed feel free to bring a copy of your chapter reports to our next meeting on December 3, 2023, in Southgate, MI.

Gary also attended multiple convention sessions including Veterans Benefits & constitution.

He provided copies of the DMVA “Michigan Vietnam Veteran Recognition Certificate” application, also attached.

Treasurer's Report: Floyd Carmichael reviewed the finance report dated 07/20/23 – 10/02/23. All the bills are being paid timely and 2 donations ($2,000 & $5,000) were received. VVMFI balance is now over $18K. Floyd reported he has received all the chapter finance reports.

If your chapter treasurer ever has questions simply contact Floyd at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Floyd reported the weather in Orlando in August is hot! Convention business ran fairly well.

National At-Large Director: Sandie Wilson was re-elected as a National At-large Director at the convention. She will continue to chair the Agent Orange Committee. Sandie is hopeful AO Town Halls will increase across the country. She will travel and participate if asked. Her contact info is; (734) 216-4862 and This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Sandie continues to encourage chapters and state councils to continue their work even after the National level closes, TBD.

See your copy of The VVA Veteran, Sep/Oct 2023, for a full convention report.

Committee Reports:

Agent Orange: Sandie reported that the Birth Defects Registry now has 10 states actively participating, www.birthdefects.org. Claims should be submitted for affected children and grandchildren of veterans who served overseas where AO was used or stored. The Denver RO handles all those claims. She reminded the delegates that a law was passed for AO research by President Obama and was thereafter ignored by President Trump. This research is still needed. There is also a need for further AO research for male veterans. It is noted that October is Agent Orange awareness month. The other health issue Sandie is following is child autism. She cites studies/research that show Tylenol taken during pregnancy can contribute to autism which can take 3 years before being diagnosed.

Constitution/Bylaws: Gary Estermyer announced that the MSC supported National proposed constitution amendment was passed at the convention without objection. The 2023 revised constitution can be found on the VVA website, www.vva.org.

Election Committee: In Chairman Jack Devine’s absence Gary Estermyer reported that Jack had not yet formed his committee. He is working on creating election process guidelines.

Nominations for officers may begin at the Dec. 3^rd meeting.

Fundraising: Duke Mayo then held the drawing for the 2023 Summer Raffle. The winners were: 1^st Prize - $250.00 – Sandie Wilson (ticket 1295), 2^nd Prize - $150.00 – Michelle Fejedeem (ticket 0240) and 3^rd Prize - $100.00 – Lynne Martinez (ticket 0221). The MSC profit was $1,941.00. Duke thanked all the chapter sellers for their support.

Gary Estermyer spoke about a possible future Charity Mania fundraiser.

Membership: Ken Rogge gave this report based on the recent National Membership Affairs report; 90,755 total VVA membership, 12,156 in Region 5, 4,899 in Michigan.

Chapter 154 is still in 5^th place nationwide and the only MI chapter in the top 25.

Dual AVVA/VVA memberships are now at 748.

Missing In America: Phil Smith reported he had received news that Stinson Funeral Home in Detroit was going to cooperate in releasing the unclaimed veteran cremains in their possession. On behalf of the MSC a letter urging Stinson cooperation had been mailed to them. Phil has been trying to contact them to finalize the details.

National Cemetery: Floyd Carmichael reported that Ft. Custer National Cemetery is now over 44K interments. Ft. Custer has another new director, Rodney Heard. All the cemetery roads are to be repaved, expansion plans may include space for an additional 6-8,000 new gravesites.

A new committal shelter, columbarium and a maintenance garage are also in the planning stage.

Seven sets of unclaimed veteran cremains were recently interred.

Veterans Day ceremony @ Ft. Custer will be Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, 11:00 AM, 11/11/11.

Great Lakes National Cemetery (GLNC) 2023 Veterans Day ceremony will be 11/11/11.

Tom Meinhardt reported GLNC held 425 services last month, 4,498 services YTD and 61,898 services since opening in October 2005. GLNC will also be repaving the driveways. They will be switching over to polyester flags on Nov. 13^th. The advisory committee reported they profited $11,800 from a recent golf outing fundraiser.

POW-MIA: 1,578 - RVN & surrounding SE Asia area.

Product Sales: John Riling had reported he was able to cover expenses in Orlando and sales were about average at Kokomo which greeted him with rather cold temps.

PTSD / Veterans Health Care: Sandie Wilson announced that PTSD remains a major problem with all veteran age groups. Sandie also reported the VA has plans to open women veteran health clinics.

V.A.V.S.: Phil Smith and Tim Driscoll reported that earlier COVID issues have been relaxed. Individual and group visits are generally permitted and encouraged. Volunteer hours should still be submitted to him and donations to Volunteer Services are always welcomed. Masks may still be required for long term care unit visits. Tim also shared that veteran suicides remain a very real concern and that such an incident recently occurred with a chapter member.

Veteran’s Benefits / Service Program: Gary Estermyer reported that we again now have 14 accredited staff; 11 service officers, 2 admin. and 1 Director/CVSO. We hired Bethany for the receptionist and she is waiting for final VA/OGC accreditation processing. Two other new hires are in training at this time. The VSO contact and schedule information handout is being tweaked to include new locations for some members of our staff. The entire staff attended training in Higgins Lake and Gaylord, MI.

Recoveries: FY21 – $13,925,883 FY22 - $15,721,015 FY23 - $11,218,931

Detroit RO, McNamara Building, 477 Michigan Avenue, Room 1226, Detroit 48226 is open

with appointments preferred (313) 961-9568 for hearings and face-to-face meetings.

Our service officers continue to participate with the VA at PACT Act events statewide.

Gary also spoke about the Michigan property tax waiver law which was changed to favor the veteran and their surviving spouse.

Veteran’s Incarcerated and in the Justice System: Phil Smith reported there are now 28 Veterans Treatment Courts in Michigan and more are needed.

AVVA: Penny Meinhardt reported they had a busy National Convention in Orlando where all the officers were elected and much discussion was held on their amendments.

AVVA will again hold their gift card fundraiser at the Dec. 3, 2023 meeting. They are asking for donations of $25.00 gift cards that will be sold for $15.00.

New Business:

See www.vva.org for convention highlights.

Tentative plans for a 40^th MSC anniversary dinner in the Downriver area on Dec. 2, 2023.

After discussion MOTION 180/267 to pay for lifetime AVVA membership for all VSO staff, motion passed.

After discussion MOTION 267/313 to donate $1,000.00 to the POW-MIA Committee of Michigan for repair/replacing of brickwork @ Oakland Hills Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Novi, motion passed.

After discussion MOTION 267/154 to encourage chapters to donate $1.00 per member to support Fisher House of Michigan, motion tabled 180/380 until Dec. 3 meeting.

Vic Romback volunteered his chapter 380 to host the 2024 MSC Annual Meeting at the Holiday Inn in Marquette in May or June (date TBD). MOTION 267/154 to support, motion passed.

Unfinished Business: Phil Smith reported on the Commanders Group ‘Veteran of the Year’ project which received 8 nominees. Tom Wilson of the Dearborn Allied War Veterans group was selected as this year’s winner. Tom is also a member of Dearborn Chapter 267.

Phil, John Riling and many other veterans were in attendance at the Sep. 28^th Tiger game @ Comerica Park for Tom to throw out the first pitch and receive his award.

AVVA & VVA upcoming meetings & events:

October 8, 2023 – VVA/AVVA general membership meeting in Cheboygan

The Chateau at Black Mountain

October 19-21, 2023 – VVA National BOD/CSCP/Veterans Benefit meeting

DoubleTree, 8777 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring MD

John, Gary & Rob Lichy (Asst. VSO Director) attended

November 11, 2023 – Veterans Day – ceremonies throughout the state and

30^th Anniversary of the Vietnam Women’s Memorial in DC

December 2, 2023 – MSC 40^th Anniversary dinner - Baldo’s Italian restaurant

7:00 PM 20051 Telegraph Road, Brownstown, MI 48174

December 3, 2023 – VVA / AVVA general membership & Christmas luncheon

10:00 AM Downriver Chapter 259 @ VFW Post 9283

16200 Dix-Toledo Road, Southgate, MI 48195

January 18-20, 2024 – VVA National BOD/CSCP/ Veterans Benefit meeting

DoubleTree, 8777 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring, MD

March 2024 – VVA / AVVA general membership meetings (location & date TBD)

May / June, 2024 – VVA / AVVA annual/election meeting (dates TBD)

Holiday Inn, 1951 US 41 West, (906) 225-1351 Marquette, MI 49855

August 20-24, 2024 – National Leadership Conference, Silver Legacy, Reno, NV

August 5-9, 2025 – National VVA Convention – New Orleans, LA, Marriott

Closing prayer Tom Meinhardt

Adjournment: 11:55 AM

Minutes taken by Secretary Gary Estermyer

Lodging in the Southgate, MI area:

Hampton Inn Hampton Inn Holiday Inn Express

13555 Prechter Road 16400 Southfield Road 13333 Heritage Center

Southgate, MI 48195 Allen Park, MI 48101 Southgate, MI 48195

734.463.1885 313.383.9730 833.617.1943

Comfort Inn & Suites Comfort Inn

3600 Enterprise Drive 18950 Northline Road

Allen Park, MI 48101 Southgate, MI 48195

313.323.3500 833.900.2501

____________

VFW Post 1008

Oakland County Chapter 133

General Membership Meeting

July 23, 2023

Call to Order: The meeting was called to order by President John Riling, in Waterford, Michigan at 9:00 AM. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, a moment of silence was observed for the POW-MIAs and those serving in harm’s way with the opening prayer by Tom Meinhardt.

Approval of the Agenda: Motion by 310/267 to accept the agenda as printed, motion passed.

Approval of the minutes: Motion 109/267 to approve the minutes of 05/21/23, motion passed.

Introduction of guests: Tom Burke, National VP – Richard Arthur, OH SC President –

Michael Dolan, IN SC President - Gary Hanson Chapter 9 – Vance McCrumb Chapter 310 - Russ Howard & Ken Hunroe Chapter 259 - Bob Dew, Terry Wells & Al Sneath Chapter 528 – Ed Jackson & Al Tarlo Chapter 133

Roll Call of Officers:

President John Riling - Present

Vice-President Ken Rogge – Present Secretary Gary Estermyer - Present

2^nd Vice President Duke Mayo – Present Treasurer Floyd Carmichael - Present

Roll Call of Chapters: 9 Jack Devine P, 18 Tom Sibley A, 31 William Collins A,

73 Bob Elliot A, 109 John Gibbs P, 110 Ralph Sharp A, 133 Tom Romein P,

142 Michael Goode P, 154 Steve Bago A, 175 Joe Mishler A, 180 Joe Coullard A,

237 Jerry Cummings A, 259 Mike Goodpaster P, 264 Ronald Schrieber A, 267 Phil Smith P,

274 Duke Mayo P, 284 Dennis Bringard A, 287 David Huffman A, 310 Tim Driscoll P,

313 Terry Ivey P, 380 Vic Romback E, 387 A, 390 Charlie Martin A, 494 A,

528 Dennis Bielskis P, 571 Dennis Peterson A, 583 Wayne Trapp A, 882 Terry Frank E,

1047 Joe Prato E and 1083 Tom Meinhardt P

Present – 11 Absent – 16 Excused – 3 A quorum is present.

President’s Report (given after Treasurer report): John welcomed everyone to VFW Post 1008 hall in Waterford for this meeting. He thanked Oakland County 133 for hosting and providing lunch today and to the VFW post for providing the meeting space.

VetsVOA has now received the necessary accreditation from OGC to process VA claims.

John had been offered a Board position on VetsVOA but turned it down due to a potential conflict of interest. John mentioned that the National veterans benefits committee will be meeting during the upcoming convention. He has a July 27 invitation to attend a Lansing meeting with the Lt. Governor & other veterans regarding veteran suicide.

Discussion on the proposed constitutional amendments and resolutions follows this meeting.

1^st Vice-President’s report: Ken Rogge reported he is having IT issues with the website recently is and working to correct the problems, www.vvamsc.org. Ken continues to welcome chapter input. The “Vietnam Veterans Michigan Foundation, Inc.” (VVMFI) is accepting applications for assistance and Ken has a page on the website for the Foundation.

2^nd Vice-President’s report: Duke Mayo reminded the delegates that his chapter Cheboygan 274 will be hosting the October 8, 2023 MSC meeting. Duke continues his attempts to reach out to northern U.P. chapters including the Petoskey area. He’s not getting much response.

Secretary's Report: Gary Estermyer reported that according to his records there are now eight chapters that have not sent him their election reports. Those chapters are; 31, 73, 175, 264, 287, 387, 571 and 583. Gary had emailed and mailed blank chapter election and finance reports to all those chapters. As the delegates should know, the official deadline for filing both election and finance reports to National and MSC was July 15, 2023. Gary or John will check with National membership to confirm the status of all Michigan chapters. Gary has been updating the chapter contact list as reports are received.

Treasurer's Report: Floyd Carmichael reviewed the General Account finance report dated 05/22/23 – 07/20/23. He had paid Himrod & Associates for our audit and submitted the SC 990 to IRS and to VVA National. He has issued 8 grant checks to chapters for convention expenses. He also has received funds from the car program and National membership rebates.

VVMFI balance is now over $18K and Floyd will create a grant application form. The SC bills are being paid in a timely manner and the monthly deposits of random donations continue.

National At-Large Director: Sandie Wilson also reported the importance of delegates expressing their opinions on the future of VVA at the upcoming National Convention.

In her opinion agent orange should be the major issue of concern among our membership.

Sandie asks the questions, “What can we do in our time left and who will take over?”

While the VVA Veteran’s Initiative (VI) program continues, Sandie fears it may be losing

its effectiveness. Grant & Mokie were able to meet with senior members of the Vietnam leadership during a recent trip.

National Vice President: Tom Burke announced that Phillip Waite (AF Col., ret.) has been hired recently as the new managing director to handle the day-to-day operations.

Tom offered his opinion on the upcoming convention and suggested VVA only has about 3 constructive conventions left. That means the 23^rd biennial convention in 2027 would be the final one. The date of February 29, 2028 could be the dissolve date of VVA National.

He noted that state councils and chapters can continue their missions if they choose.

Our national political clout will naturally be gone at that time. VetsVOA is being promoted as a separate entity to take over the VVA veterans benefit program. This plan has been favorably received by OGC which offers legal opinions and advice. Whenever the dropdead date arrives Tom believes that VVA may be gone but not forgotten. Tom announced that the main convention hotel at the Rosen Center is full and the overflow hotel the Rosen Plaza is about ½ mile away. Tom is aware 856 delegates have registered and that number could increase to 900.

It has also been determined that the 2024 VVA Leadership Conference will take place at the Silver Legacy in Reno, NV. The date for Leadership is TBD.

Announcements: John Riling announced that he is waiving the $5 out-of-uniform fee for this meeting. Recipients of the VVA Achievement or Commendation Medal should wear them. Phil Smith of Dearborn Chapter 267 announced they will have their annual golf outing on August 27^th at Inkster Valley Golf course. Hog Heaven fundraiser in September will have prizes of $10K, $5K and $3K. There will be a PACT Act event in Dearborn on July 28^th, 4 – 7:00 PM.

Tom Meinhardt of Chapter 1083 will be holding a Reverse Raffle on Sep. 16, $50 ticket gets you dinner & drinks. Dennis Bielskis of Chapter 528 reported they will be having a Steak Fry on August 25, 5 – 7 PM, at the VFW Post 6695 in Plymouth, $20 a ticket.

Vance McCrumb of Chapter 310 announced they will have their annual Pig Roast at the Saline American Legion on August 26^th, dinner, product sales and music 1 – 9:00 PM.

Gary Hanson of Chapter 9 discussed the Keith Famie, Detroit/Auto documentary carried by PBS. Member Dave Gurtowsky is in it and it may be viewed nationwide soon.

Michael Dolan, IN SC president announced that the Grissom Air Museum in Peru, IN will be having a B58 Hustler reunion the weekend of 09/29 – 10/01/23 for anyone interested.

Committee Reports:

Agent Orange: Sandie Wilson stated the obvious that Agent Orange exposure continues to cause illness and death to those who served in contaminated areas. Research is overdue and still needed on this issue. A VVA sub-committee recently traveled to the Denver RO to check on Spina Bifida/child birth defect claims. It was discovered only 2 women vets filed claims.

Sandie also reported on the child health issue of autism. Studies and research are now showing that Tylenol taken during pregnancy is a leading cause of autism. Researchers are now warning that by 2030 up to 50% of children in the school system will be autistic to some degree.

Constitution/Bylaws: Gary Estermyer had submitted the MSC supported National Convention proposed constitutional amendment and it will be discussed at the convention.

Fundraising: Duke Mayo spoke about the 2023 Summer Raffle fundraiser. These $5.00 tickets are available for distribution to chapters today. For each ticket sold $1.00 will go to the seller’s chapter. It is imperative that chapter support (selling & buying tickets) is crucial for a successful raffle. The drawing date is October 8, 2023 @ 11:00 AM during our meeting in Cheboygan. Prizes are; 1^st - $250.00 / 2^nd - $150.00 / 3^rd - $100/00.

Government Affairs: Jack Devine reported he has been involved with the MVC legislative discussion to incorporate a roll-over clause as part of a permanent budget. The Jacobetti home for veterans is to be renovated. Jack reported that any future sites for veterans homes cannot be on leased property, which was a problem for the Detroit site.

Membership: Ken Rogge gave this report based on the recent National Membership Affairs report; 90,436 total VVA membership of which 1,442 are women, Chapter 154 is now in 5^th place nationwide and the only MI chapter in the top 25.

Missing In America: Phil Smith reported there were 2 unclaimed veteran cremains that were honored in the Dearborn Memorial Day parade. Unfortunately, those cremains have not yet been released by Stinson Funeral Home to be interred at Great Lakes National Cemetery.

Without objection, MOTION to contact/write Stinson to urge release of those cremains.

Two Army veteran unclaimed cremains were interred recently at Ft. Custer National Cemetery.

National Cemetery: Floyd Carmichael reported a current total of 43,418 burials at Ft. Custer. Ft. Custer had a new director, Andre Logan who has since taken on the duties at Great Lakes National Cemetery. All the cemetery roads are to be repaved, expansion plans may include space for an additional 3-4,000 casketed gravesites and 4-6,000 cremains. There are up to 750 acres available for expansion which includes a scatter area. Also, another committal shelter and a maintenance garage are in the planning stage.

Tom Meinhardt reported that Great Lakes National Cemetery (GLNC) new total of interments since opening is 60K+, 2,500 YTD and 614 in June. GLNC is planning a golf outing fundraiser on September 27^th in Lapeer, MI.

POW-MIA: 1,578 total which includes 1,238 from Vietnam, 285 Laos, 48 Cambodia and 7 from China territorial waters. Floyd also did some research and found there are still 72,248 missing from WWII, 7,508 from Korea, 186 from the Cold War and 5 from the Gulf War. 81,500 is the total of American’s MIA.

Some 09/15/2023 POW/MIA ceremony plans include; Oakland Hills Memorial Garden in Novi @ 6:00 PM with Debbie McClain, president of the POW Committee of Michigan as emcee,

Sue Scott of the National League of Families will emcee the event @ Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton Twp. and Marty Eddy will emcee the event at VFW Post 2233 in Detroit.

On 09/16/2023, 4:00 PM there will be a POW/MIA Plaques of Honor ceremony at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Island Park in Mt. Pleasant.

Product Sales: John Riling and his crew is looking forward to driving down to Orlando for the upcoming VVA National convention and then Kokomo in September. He will be staging an inventory counting party soon also.

PTSD / Veterans Health Care: Sandie Wilson announced that PTSD remains a major problem with all veteran age groups however the VA claims they can treat PTSD patients in 13 visits.

Veterans with asbestos related health issues should file a claim.

Mike Dolan reported that a large number of Indiana veterans are filing hypertension claims.

Mike and his team are working hard with his Indiana benefit program.

Tim reported that Washtenaw Community College recently hosted a Vet Fest and it had a light turnout which may have been affected by the Ann Arbor Art Fair event.

Phil reported he had received his first VAVS report from the Jacobetti facility in Marquette.

Veteran’s Benefits / Service Program: Gary Estermyer reported that we still have 14 accredited staff; 11 service officers, 2 admin. and 1 Director/CVSO. The hand-out of all our VSO’s contact and schedule information will soon be up on the MSC website and copies were available now.

Recoveries: FY21 – $13,925,883 FY22 - $15,721,015

The process of reporting recoveries has changed and we are going to use the old and new system to provide future numbers.

Detroit RO, McNamara Building, 477 Michigan Avenue, Room 1226, Detroit 48226 is open with appointments preferred (313) 961-9568 for hearings and face-to-face meetings.

Our service officers have been participating in many VA PACT Act / Vet Fest events, including Fowlerville, Genessee County and the Calhoun County Fair.

Our staff will be attending service officer training at the Higgins Lake DNR after the convention in August and more training offered by MVAA at TreeTops Resort in Gaylord in October.

VVA is quite concerned with the Caregiver benefit as 98% of claims have been denied.

VVA National service benefit office plans to settle all the legacy claims by Sep. 1, 2023.

Veteran’s Incarcerated and in the Justice System: Phil Smith reported there are now 28 Veterans Treatment Courts in MI and more are needed. One female veteran is in the program.

AVVA: Penny Meinhardt reported they are preparing for their National Convention in Orlando where all the officers will be elected. Each chapter’s AVVA representative will be recognized as a delegate at their convention. Penny will provide $300.00 for each delegate. Project Friendship donations will go to the National Birth Defects Registry in Orlando.

New Business: See www.vva.org for convention updates.

Phil Smith reported that applications for Veteran Of The Year are lagging. He asked the delegates to consider a member for consideration.

Thursday, September 28, 2023, 1:10 PM, will be Veterans Appreciation Game @ Comerica.

Tickets are now $30.00 per person, in groups of 10 or more which includes a drink & hot dog. Call Jackson Billings, Ilitch Sports Entertainment @ (313) 471-3178 or email him with a credit/debit card.

You could also send Phil Smith a check/money order or cashiers check payable to him

(memo – Veterans Appreciation) and he will pick up tickets or make arrangements for you: Phillip S. Smith, c/o Veterans Appreciation Game, 7774 Patton Street, Detroit, MI 48228.

You’re on your own for parking: bar shuttle, People Mover, car pool or Chapter 9 lot are options.

Chapter 310 was able to petition state legislators to rename a section of I-94 as the Washtenaw County Vietnam Veteran Memorial Highway.

AVVA & VVA upcoming meetings & events:

August 8-12, 2023 – 21^st VVA National Convention, Rosen Centre

9840 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819

$122.50 – rooms $75.00 – registration Free parking

October 8, 2023 – VVA/AVVA general membership meeting hosted by Cheboygan Chap. 274

Chateau by Black Mountain, 10621 Twin Lakes Road, Cheboygan, MI

ALL ROOMS RENTED OUT. (231) 625-9322

October 19-21, 2023 – VVA National BOD & CSCP meeting @ the Double Tree

8777 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring, MD

December 3, 2023 – 10:00 AM - VVA/AVVA general membership meetings,

MOTION 259/9 to approve hosting by Downriver Chapter 259, motion passed.

VFW Post 9283 – 16200 Dix-Toledo Road, Southgate, MI 48195

July/August 2024 - National Leadership Conference, Silver Legacy, Reno, NV

Date TBD

August 5-9, 2025 – National VVA Convention – New Orleans, LA, Marriott

Closing prayer Tom Meinhardt

Adjournment of meeting: 12:10 PM

Adjournment of pre-convention meeting: 1:10 PM

Minutes taken by Secretary Gary Estermyer

Lodging in the Cheboygan, MI area:

Continental Inn Fleetwood Inn & Suites

613 N. Main Street 889 S. Main Street

Cheboygan, MI 49721 Cheboygan, MI 49721

231.627.7164 231.627.3126

(10% discount for vets)

Creek Side Monarch

231.627.4696 231.627.2143

________________

VIETNAM VETERANS OF AMERICA

MICHIGAN STATE COUNCIL

American Legion Post 257

Battle Creek Chapter 313

General Membership Meeting

May 21, 2023

Call to Order: The meeting was called to order by President John Riling, in Battle Creek, Michigan at 10:10 AM. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, a moment of silence was observed for the POW-MIAs and those serving in harm’s way with the opening prayer by

Tom Meinhardt.

Approval of the Agenda: Motion by 1083/142 to accept the agenda as printed, motion passed.

Approval of the minutes: Motion 142/109 to approve the minutes of 03/12/23, motion passed.

Introduction of guests: Preston Russell, VVA VSO

Roll Call of Officers:

President John Riling - Present

Vice-President Ken Rogge – Present Secretary Gary Estermyer - Present

2^nd Vice President Duke Mayo – Present Treasurer Floyd Carmichael - Present

Roll Call of Chapters: 9 Jack Devine E, 18 Tom Sibley A, 31 William Collins A,

73 Bob Elliot A, 109 John Gibbs P, 110 Ralph Sharp A, 133 Tom Romein E,

142 Michael Goode P, 154 Steve Bago P, 175 Joe Mishler A, 180 Joe Coullard A,

237 Jerry Cummings A, 259 Mike Goodpaster P, 264 Ronald Schrieber A, 267 Phil Smith P,

274 Duke Mayo P, 284 Dennis Bringard A, 287 David Huffman A, 310 Tim Driscoll P,

313 Terry Ivey P, 380 Vic Romback E, 387 A, 390 Charlie Martin A, 494 A, 528 Gary Estermyer P, 571 Dennis Peterson A, 583 Wayne Trapp A, 882 Terry Frank E,

1047 Joe Prato E and 1083 Tom Meinhardt P

Present – 10 Absent – 15 Excused – 5 A quorum is present.

President’s Report (given after Treasurer report): John welcomed everyone to the American Legion hall in Battle Creek for this meeting. He thanked Battle Creek 313 for hosting and American Legion Brian Mohlman for providing the meeting space. John reported that VVA BOD had approved the MOU with ClearTrust Claims LLP. Mr. Geoffrey Bestor of CTC has offered to represent VVA members with their asbestos claims and only charging a 10% fee. This class action lawsuit is independent of VA claims. Mr. Bestor has offered to travel to Michigan maybe in June or July to personally train our service officers on asbestos claims. John attended the CSCP and National BOD meetings in April last month which included a 1 day special meeting with all the directors and officers, as well as chairing the National Veterans Benefit Program meetings. He also had a list of the proposed resolutions and constitutional amendments which is now available at www.vva.org. John also reported that the law firm Bergman & Moore had entered a co-counsel agreement with Beasley Allen Law Firm to offer their service and advice to VVA members regarding the PACT Act / Camp Lejeune water contamination class action lawsuit and to knock down the backlog of VVA claims and appeals.

VetsVOA has now received the necessary accreditation from OGC to process VA claims.

John also reported he has various office furniture and equipment for sale to a good home.

John, Gary Estermyer, Jack Devine, Duke Mayo and Rob Lichey (VVA VSO Asst. Director) had attended the May 3-5 MVAA Leadership Conference in Traverse City. He also attended a meet and greet with Gov. Whitmer to discuss veteran legislative business. John also attended a recent Chapter 154 meeting and presented the VVA Achievement Medal to Marty Eddy and Debbie Pineau (POW-MIA Committee of Michigan).

1^st Vice-President’s report: Ken Rogge announced that MSC is now working with new website management which is much more user friendly. Check out the updates Ken has been working on, www.vvamsc.org. Ken continues to welcome chapter input. The “Vietnam Veterans Michigan Foundation, Inc.” (VVMFI) is open for accepting applications for assistance and Ken has a page on the website for the Foundation.

2^nd Vice-President’s report: Duke Mayo announced that his chapter Cheboygan 274 will be hosting the October 8, 2023 MSC meeting. Duke continues to reach out to northern chapters including the Petoskey area and those in the UP, some of which we haven’t seen in years.

Duke reported he thought the Leadership Summit event was well planned and executed.

Secretary's Report: Gary Estermyer reported that according to his records there were 24 chapters that were to hold their elections last month. Gary had emailed and mailed blank chapter election and finance reports to all those chapters. Copies of the forms are available today also. As the delegates should know, the official deadline for filing both election and finance reports to National and MSC is July 15, 2023. Gary or John will check with National membership to confirm the status of all Michigan chapters. Gary will be updating the chapter contact list as reports are received. Feel free to bring a copy of your chapter reports to our next meeting on July 23, 2023, in Waterford. Gary was also impressed with the turnout and information provided at the Traverse City MVAA event.

Treasurer's Report: Floyd Carmichael reviewed the finance report dated 03/13/23 – 05/20/23. He had transferred $20,000 from the General Fund to the VSO account due to the State being slow in their monthly processing. He also has received funds from the car program and National membership rebates. VVMFI balance is now over $17K. The SC bills are being paid in a timely manner and the monthly deposits of random donations continue. Floyd reminded the delegates that all chapters need to submit their annual finance report to MSC and to National by July 15.

If your chapter treasurer has questions simply contact Floyd at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The MSC is currently offering $750.00 National Convention grants. Floyd has the application and it’s on the website.

National At-Large Director: Sandie Wilson also reported the importance of delegates expressing their opinions on the future of VVA at the upcoming National Convention. The future of VVA chapters and state councils will also be discussed. Chapters should begin to consider what issues are important to them. POW-MIA has always been a top priority for VVA but how important is it today? Sandie had attended the DOD 50^th Commemorative event in DC earlier this month and she was not impressed. The weather was hot, not enough shade nor available fluids. Events were to spread out, too much walking.

Announcements: Terry Ivey of Chapter 313 reported on the June raffle they were running. There will be a daily winner of prizes from Litchfield Outdoors. $20.00 a ticket.

Terry also announced his chapter is having a going-out-of-business product sales sale.

Phil Smith of Dearborn Chapter 267 announced they will have their annual golf outing on August 27^th at Inkster Valley Golf course. Hog Heaven fundraiser in September will have prizes of $10K, $5K and 4$3K.

Committee Reports

Agent Orange: John entertained a motion 154/142 to approve Sandie Wilson as the new Agent Orange committee chairperson. Sandie agreed as long as Mike Goodpaster would be the co-chair. Motion passed. Sandie reported there are currently 19 additional A.O. presumptive issues for women veterans. Studies continue to research whether some of those conditions also apply to men. She is aware that due to staff shortages the Birth Defects Registry data input is affected.

Constitution/Bylaws: Gary Estermyer had submitted the MSC supported National Convention proposed constitutional amendment. To insert language in Article II, Section 6, A and/or Article II, Section 8 … “The state council president may appoint the Election Committee Chair as with all the other committee chairs, without objection.”

Finance Report: Floyd reported that the Smile.Amazon donation program has ended, effective on Feb. 20, 2023, however we should expect one more donation. Floyd had spent over 14 hours to complete an economic census report.

Government Affairs: Jack Devine reported in March on the MVAA Leadership Summit that was held May 3-5, 2023, in Traverse City. There were 9 sessions, which included; Keynote speaker, Veterans Benefits, Networking with Veteran Service Providers, Working with your Legislators, Aiming for Zero (suicide prevention), What’s Next, VEO & Building Communities, Underserved Veteran Populations in Michigan (The Big Picture) and Aligning Focus (Building veteran-friendly communities). MOH recipient James C. McCloughan was a guest speaker.

Jack was a co-presenter on one of the sessions. The Legislative Priority packet he co-produced on behalf of the Commanders Group was presented to the MI Senate and House Veteran Affairs Committee members and all the MSC delegates. One important bragging right is the fact that for the $4.25 million received from the State grant the Coalition has returned $660 million in recoveries in the State!

Membership: Ken Rogge gave this report based on the recent National Membership Affairs report; 89,990 total VVA membership, 12,061 in Region 5, 4,872 in Michigan.

Chapter 154 is now in 5^th place nationwide and the only MI chapter in the top 25.

Dual AVVA/VVA memberships are slowly climbing towards 700.

Missing In America: Phil Smith reported there will be 2 unclaimed veteran cremains that will be honored in the Dearborn Memorial Day parade, May 29, 9:30 AM. The Great Lakes National Cemetery ceremonies for those veterans will take place 1 week after Memorial Day.

National Cemetery: Floyd Carmichael reported a current total of 43,206 burials at Ft. Custer. Ft. Custer had a new director, Andre Logan who has since taken on the duties at Great Lakes National Cemetary. All the cemetery roads are to be repaved, expansion plans may include space for an additional 3-4,000 casketed gravesites and 4-6,000 cremains. Another committal shelter and a maintenance garage are also planned to be built.

Fort Custer is in need of flag poles and additional flags.

Ft. Custer “Day of Remembrance” program is planned, May 28, 2023 @ 2 PM.

Great Lakes National Cemetery (GLNC) Memorial Day ceremony will be on May 28^th @ 1 PM.

Tom Meinhardt reported that GLNC new total of interments since opening is 59,112, 1,781 this FY and 268 in April. GLNC will have a flag retirement ceremony on June 14, 2023 and they will have a golf outing fundraiser on August 26^th.

Motion 1083/313 to donate $100.00 for the golf outing. Motion passed.

POW-MIA: 1,579 - RVN & surrounding SE Asia area.

Floyd reported in March that 8 WWII and 5 Korea remains have recently been identified. Floyd also did some research and found there are still 72,248 missing from WWII, 7,508 from Korea, 186 from the Cold War and 5 from the Gulf War. 81,500 is the total of American’s MIA.

Product Sales: John Riling is looking forward to the upcoming VVA National convention and then Kokomo in September. He will be staging an inventory counting party soon also.

PTSD / Veterans Health Care: Sandie Wilson announced that PTSD remains a major problem with all veteran age groups however the VA claims they can treat PTSD patients in 13 visits.

Veteran’s with asbestos related health issues should file a claim.

V.A.V.S.: Phil Smith and Tim Driscoll reported that COVID restrictions at most VA facilities have relaxed, no more masks. Individual and small group visits are generally permitted and encouraged. Weekly bingo games have also resumed. Monetary donations are always welcomed. Volunteer hours are down by 30%, probably due to the pandemic. Tim also announced that the Ann Arbor VAMC has room for an additional Fischer House facility to have 16 rooms. The Detroit VAMC plans to build a Fischer House which will have 26 rooms.

Tim said that Betty (VVA VSO) continues to get complements from vets he speaks with.

He also gave a shout out to Home Depot who helped his chapter with the Ypsilanti Veteran’s Memorial.

Recoveries: FY21 – $13,925,883 FY22 - $15,721,015 FYTD - $11,218,931

February - $2,217,340 March - $2,286,107

Detroit RO, McNamara Building, 477 Michigan Avenue, Room 1226, Detroit 48226 is open

with appointments preferred (313) 961-9568 for hearings and face-to-face meetings.

Our service officers have been participating in many VA PACT Act events.

Gary also spoke about the Michigan property tax waiver change which now only applies on the homestead where the veteran lives or had resided if deceased.

Veteran’s Incarcerated and in the Justice System: Phil Smith reported there are now 28 Veterans Treatment Courts in MI and more are needed. One female veteran is in the program.

AVVA: Penny Meinhardt reported they are preparing for their National Convention in Orlando where all the officers will be elected. Each chapters’ AVVA representative will be recognized as a delegate at their convention. Penny will provide $300.00 for each delegate. Project Friendship donations will go to the National Birth Defects Registry in Orlando.

New Business: See www.vva.org for convention updates. Phil Smith also reported that applications for Veteran Of The Year are lagging. He asked the delegates to consider a member for consideration. He will also probably ask the Commanders Group for an extension to receive applications. He also will meet with Comerica Park personnel about enhancing the program.

AVVA & VVA upcoming meetings & events:

July 23, 2023 – VVA/AVVA general membership meeting hosted by Oakland Cty. Chapter 133,

*** 9:00 AM *** VFW Post 1008, 1690 Airport Road, Waterford, MI 48327

August 8-12, 2023 – 21^st VVA National Convention, Rosen Centre

9840 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819

$122.50 – rooms $75.00 – registration Free parking

October 8, 2023 – VVA/AVVA general membership meeting hosted by Cheboygan Chap. 274

Chateau by Black Mountain, 10621 Twin Lakes Road, Cheboygan, MI

(231) 625-9322

December 3, 2023 – 10:00 AM - VVA/AVVA general membership meetings in Howell, MI

August 5-9, 2025 – National VVA Convention – New Orleans, LA, Marriott

Closing prayer Tom Meinhardt

Adjournment: 12:10 PM

Minutes taken by Secretary Gary Estermyer

Lodging in the Waterford, MI area:

American Inn & Suites Cass Lake Hotel Also check numerous hotels

7076 Highland Road 120 S. Telegraph Road in Clarkston & Auburn Hills

Waterford, MI 48327 Waterford, MI 48341 area

(248) 666-8555 (855) 516-1090

__________

F. O. Eagles Hall

Jackson Chapter 109

General Membership Meeting - March 12, 2023

Call to Order: The meeting was called to order by President John Riling, in Michigan Center, MI at 10:00 AM. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, a moment of silence was observed for the POW-MIAs and those serving in harm’s way with the opening prayer by Floyd Carmichael.

Approval of the Agenda: Motion by 310/154 to accept the agenda as printed, motion passed.

Approval of the minutes: Motion 154/109 to approve the minutes of 12/04/22, motion passed.

Introduction of guests: Tom Burke, National Vice President

Cheryl Gawne, DAR State Chair Commemorative Events

Chapter 109; Michael Finch, Bill Stoka(sp) and Edith of AVVA

Roll Call of Officers:

President John Riling - Present

Vice-President Ken Rogge – Present Secretary Gary Estermyer - Present

2^nd Vice President Duke Mayo – Present Treasurer Floyd Carmichael - Present

Roll Call of Chapters: 9 Jack Devine P, 18 Tom Sibley A, 31 William Collins P,

73 Bob Elliot A, 109 John Gibbs P, 110 Ralph Sharp A, 133 Tom Romein A,

142 Michael Goode A, 154 Steve Bago P, 175 Joe Mishler E, 180 Joe Coullard E,

237 Jerry Cummings A, 259 Mike Goodpaster P, 264 Ronald Schrieber A, 267 Phil Smith P,

274 Duke Mayo P, 284 Dennis Bringard A, 287 David Huffman A, 310 Tim Driscoll P,

313 Terry Ivey P, 380 Vic Romback E, 387 A, 390 Charlie Martin A, 494 Ray Essenmacher A, 528 Gary Estermyer P, 571 Dennis Peterson A, 583 Wayne Trapp A, 882 Terry Frank E,

1047 Joe Prato A and 1083 Tom Meinhardt E

Present – 10 Absent – 15 Excused – 5 A quorum is present.

President’s Report (given after Treasurer report): John welcomed everyone to the Eagles hall in Michigan Center for this meeting. He thanked Jackson 109 for hosting and the Eagles personnel for providing the meeting space. John reported that VVA BOD has approved the MOU with ClearTrust Claims LLP. Mr. Geoffrey Bestor of CTC has offered to represent VVA members with their asbestos claims and only charging a 10% fee. This class action lawsuit is independent of VA claims. Mr. Bestor has offered to travel to Michigan maybe in June or July to personally train our service officers on asbestos claims. John attended the CSCP and National BOD meetings the weekend of January 18-21, 2023, as well as chairing the National Veterans Benefit Program meetings. Gary Estermyer serves as secretary of the VBP committee. John also reported that the law firm Bergman & Moore has entered a co-counsel agreement with Beasley Allen Law Firm to offer their service and advice to VVA members regarding the PACT Act / Camp Lejeune water contamination class action lawsuit.

VetsVOA is still on hold pending accreditation from OGC.

VVA National will have a tent near the Mall during the DOD 50^th events from May 11-13, 2023, www.vietnamwar50th.com. There will be displays, exhibits, entertainment at the event.

It was mentioned that the Space Force is underrepresented at times. A Space Force flag should be added to the other branches on display. On March 22 John had attended the Dearborn South unofficial VVA meeting in Florida. John also reported he has various office furniture and equipment for sale to a good home.

On the Region 5 front, John and Mike Goodpaster had just traveled to Illinois for their state council meeting. John is exploring the option of holding individual state pre-convention meetings instead of holding one weekend meeting for all the Region 5 states.

John also suggested our members should consider becoming dual VVA/AVVA members, which is $50 lifetime and includes voting rights at AVVA meetings.

1^st Vice-President’s Report

Ken Rogge announced that MSC is now working with new website management which is much more user friendly. Under the new system Ken noted there has been 43 visits to the site for the month of February. Check out the updates Ken has been working on, www.vvamsc.org. Ken continues to welcome chapter input. The “Vietnam Veterans Michigan Foundation, Inc. (VVMFI) is open for accepting applications for assistance and Ken has a page on the website for the Foundation. MOTION by 259/267 to donate $5,000.00 to the Foundation from the MSC general fund, motion passed.

2^nd Vice-President’s report: Duke Mayo announced that his chapter Cheboygan 274 would like to host the October 2023 meeting. MOTION by 274/310 to hold the October 8 meeting at The Chateau by Black Lake, motion passed. Duke continues to reach out to northern chapters and those in the UP, some of which we haven’t seen in years. John Gibbs reported he has been in contact with some veterans in the Lansing area who have expressed interest in re-forming a chapter. John will investigate further.

Secretary's Report

Gary Estermyer reported that according to his records there will be 24 chapters holding their elections next month in April. Gary had emailed and mailed blank chapter election and finance reports to all those chapters. Copies of the forms are available today also. Chapters not holding elections this year (they are on a 2-year cycle) are; 9, 109, 133, 284, 882 and 1083. As the delegates should know, the official deadline for filing both of these reports to National and MSC is July 15, 2023.

Gary will be updating the chapter contact list as reports are received. Feel free to bring a copy of your chapter reports to our next meeting on May 21, 2023, in Battle Creek.

Treasurer's Report: Floyd Carmichael reviewed the finance report dated 12/05/22 – 03/05/23. He had transferred $20,000 from the General Fund to the VSO account due to the State being slow in their monthly processing. He also has received funds the car program. VVMFI balance is now over $17K. The SC bills are being paid in a timely manner and the monthly deposits from National and random donations continue. Floyd reminded the delegates that all chapters need to submit their finance report annually to the State Council and to National by July 15.

If your chapter treasurer has questions simply contact Floyd at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The MSC will again be offering the National Convention grants in 2023, without objection the amount will be increased to $750.00. Floyd has the application and it’s on the website.

National VVA Vice President: Tom Burke and his spouse Robin had also attended the Illinois state council meeting and decided to double down and attend our meeting also. Tom reported that VVA National President Jack McManus has scheduled, April 20^th, an all day SC presidents and directors meeting to discuss the future of VVA. Tom personally thinks we (VVA) have maybe 3 more effective conventions to conduct our business. The aging veteran community has many issues to deal with. Tom and many of us are attending an increasing number of funerals.

Tom has read some national statistics that state approximately 1,500 Vietnam veterans die each month in the U.S... The dissolution plan of 2019 speaks to many relevant issues however Household Goods fundraiser and staff issues were not addressed. National VVA is now starting to exert some pressure on OGC to approve accreditation of VetsVOA which will be an option for VVA POA’s in the future. OGC finds it intriguing that VVA is the only organization that has endorsed a new entity to transition it’s benefit program in the future.

Tom is involved in the National VVA budget conversation which is also extremely important.

Tom emphasized the importance of the upcoming National Convention in August 2023. He encouraged all chapters to send their delegates. Check www.vva.org for convention details.

National At-Large Director: Sandie Wilson also reported the importance of delegates expressing their opinions on the future of VVA. It is hoped there will be answers to the questions of VVA chapters and state councils being able to continue their work even after the National level closes. Sandie mentioned that all VVA chapters have their own EIN number. Chapters should begin to consider what issues are important to them.

National essentially believes veteran benefits and legislative advocacy are very important. POW-MIA has always been a top priority for VVA but how important is it today?

Announcements

John Gibbs (109) announced his chapter will be holding an open house on Mar. 29^th and they will be holding a raffle on April 29^th. ^.

Mike Schnieder (154) announced his chapter will feature their Traveling Wall, a pinning ceremony along with a DAR presentation on March 29^th.

Mike Goodpaster (259) announced his chapter will have a ceremony at the Wyandotte Vietnam Veteran Memorial with speakers, Canadian Vietnam veterans and a DAR presentation on 3/29.

Phil Smith (267) announced his chapter is planning their 21^st Annual Dinner Dance.

Tim Driscoll (310) announced his chapter will participate with the Ann Arbor VAMC event on the 29^th. Most VA hospitals will also have events honoring Vietnam veterans.

John Riling announced that IL has an Unknown Soldiers display from Rome, GA.

Cheryl Gawne, DAR Special MI Commemorative Event Coordinator then made her presentation to MSC. John Riling accepted the DOD Partnership Award from her.

Committee Reports

Constitution/Bylaws: Gary Estermyer announced that he is withdrawing his proposed MSC bylaw amendment relating to the Election Committee.

Instead, he will now present 2 motions for the delegates to vote on, one after the other.

MOTION 1 – Effective immediately to make the Election Committee Chair an elected position.

2 votes for, 9 votes against, motion failed.

MOTION 2 – Effective immediately to make the Election Committee Chair an appointed position. 10 votes for, 0 votes against, motion passed.

Without objection President John Riling appointed Jack Devine as Election Committee Chair.

Gary then presented a National Convention proposed amendment.

To insert language in Article II, Section 6, A and/or Article II, Section 8 … “The state council president may appoint the Election Committee Chair as with all the other committee chairs, without objection.”

The delegates voted 11-0 to approve moving this proposal forward.

Finance Report: Floyd reported that the Smile.Amazon donation program has ended, effective on Feb. 20, 2023, however we should expect one more donation.

Fundraising

Duke Mayo spoke about a Cabela’s gift card or cash raffle fundraiser. He suggests a top prize of $500.00. Duke recommends that for each $5.00 ticket sold $1.00 would go to the sellers chapter. It is imperative that chapter support (selling & buying tickets) is crucial for a successful raffle. The delegates voted to support this fundraiser. Duke plans to have the drawing date at our October 8, 2023 meeting in Cheboygan.

Government Affairs

Jack Devine reported on the upcoming MVAA Leadership Summit to be held May 3-5, 2023, in Traverse City. There will be 9 sessions, which include; Keynote speaker, Veterans Benefits, Networking with Veteran Service Providers, Working with your Legislators, Aiming for Zero (suicide prevention), What’s Next, VEO & Building Communities, Underserved Veteran Populations in Michigan (The Big Picture) and Aligning Focus (Building veteran-friendly communities). MOH recipient James C. McCloughan will also speak.

Jack also spoke about the Legislative Priority packet he co-produced on behalf of the Commanders Group. This informational packet will be presented to the MI Senate and House Veteran Affairs Committee members and all the MSC delegates. One important bragging right is the fact that for the $4.25 million received from the State grant the Coalition has returned $660 million in recoveries in the State! The Coalition is also pushing for a rollover clause of the state grant money. The current state veteran homes are located in Grand Rapids, Chesterfield Twp., Marquette (plans to rebuild), Detroit (future plans to build) and Traverse City/Clare area (future plans to build). There are also plans to seek a Federal cemetery in Crawford County and perhaps in the Upper Peninsula in the future. We also support hyperbaric health care, keeping the Michigan Veterans Trust Fund strong and functioning and reviewing the Michigan Vietnam Veteran Bonus act.

Membership

Ken Rogge gave this report based on the recent National Membership Affairs report; 89,486 total VVA membership, 12,061 in Region 5, 4,874 in Michigan.

Chapter 154 is now in 5^th place nationwide and the only MI chapter in the top 25.

Dual AVVA/VVA memberships are slowly climbing towards 700.

Missing In America

Phil Smith reported that he now has four unclaimed veteran cremains in his possession that will be honored in the Dearborn Memorial Day parade, May 29, 9:30 AM. The Great Lakes National Cemetery ceremonies will take place 1 week after Memorial Day.

National Cemetery

Floyd Carmichael reported a current total of 42,925 burials at Ft. Custer. Ft. Custer has a new director, Andre Logan. All the cemetery roads are to be repaved, expansion plans may include space for an additional 3-4,000 casketed gravesites and 4-6,000 cremains. Another committal shelter and a maintenance garage are also planned to be built. Floyd has retired from their Honor Guard with over 5,500 volunteer hours but will still serve on their Advisory Board. Floyd will also now volunteer on Tuesday’s in the front office answering the phone. Ft. Custer “Day of Remembrance” program is planned, May 28, 2023 @ 2 PM.

Great Lakes National Cemetery (GLNC) Memorial Day ceremony will be on May 28^th @ 1 PM.

POW-MIA

1,581 - RVN & surrounding SE Asia area.

Floyd reported that 8 WWII and 5 Korea remains have recently been identified. Floyd also did some research and found there are still 72,248 missing from WWII, 7,508 from Korea, 186 from the Cold War and 5 from the Gulf War. 81,500 is the total of American’s MIA.

There was recent news that the National POW-MIA League of Families was going to disband.

However, they did in fact receive a sizeable donation to allow them to continue.

Product Sales: John Riling is looking forward to the upcoming VVA National convention and he is also seeking design suggestions for a new MSC challenge coin.

PTSD / Veterans Health Care

Sandie Wilson announced that PTSD remains a major problem with all veteran age groups. Sandie also reported the VA has plans to open women veteran health clinics.

V.A.V.S

Phil Smith and Tim Driscoll reported that COVID issues (masking required) still persist at most VA facilities, so most group volunteer efforts/activities are on hold. Individual visits are generally permitted and encouraged. Volunteer hours should still be submitted to him and donations to Volunteer Services are always welcomed. Tim also announced that the Ann Arbor VAMC has room for an additional Fischer House facility to have 16 rooms. The Detroit VAMC plans to build a Fischer House which will have 26 rooms.

Veteran’s Benefits / Service Program

Gary Estermyer reported that we still have 14 accredited staff; 11 service officers, 2 admin. and 1 Director/CVSO. The hand-out of all our VSO’s contact and schedule information will soon be up on the MSC website and copies were available now.

Recoveries: FY21 – $13,925,883 FY22 - $15,721,015

Oct. - $1,517,109 Nov. - $1,468,864 Dec. - $1,551,213 Jan. - $2,178,298

Detroit RO, McNamara Building, 477 Michigan Avenue, Room 1226, Detroit 48226 is open

with appointments preferred (313) 961-9568 for hearings and face-to-face meetings.

Our service officers have been participating with the VA at PACT Act events.

Gary also spoke about the Michigan property tax waiver change which now only applies on the homestead where the veteran lives or had resided if deceased. Michigan is still assisting IL veterans until VVA National hires someone to take over.

Veteran’s Incarcerated and in the Justice System

Phil Smith reported there are now 28 Veterans Treatment Courts in Michigan and more are needed.

AVVA

Betty Pike reported they are preparing for their National Convention in Orlando where all the officers will be elected. Each chapters’ AVVA representative will be recognized as a delegate at their convention. Treasurer Floyd Carmichael made a motion (from the Executive Committee) to donate $2,000.00 to MI AVVA to help offset convention expenses. Motion passed.

New Business

See www.vva.org for convention updates

AVVA & VVA Upcoming Meetings & Events

April 20-23, 2023 – National VVA BOD & CSCP meeting, Silver Spring, MD

8777 Georgia Avenue, DoubleTree

May 3-5, 2023 – MVAA Leadership Summit, Traverse City, MI VFW hall

May 11-13, 2023 – DOD Vietnam 50^th event, DC, www.vietnamwar50th.com

May 21, 2023 – 10:00 AM - MSC/AVVA General Membership meeting

American Legion Post 257 Battle Creek Chap. 313

7475 B Drive North Battle Creek, MI

June / July 2023 – Region 5 pre-convention meetings, in OH, IN, IL

July 2023 – VVA/AVVA general membership meeting (date & location TBD, Howell?)

August 8-12, 2023 – 21^st VVA National Convention, Rosen Centre

9840 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819

$122.50 – rooms $75.00 – registration Free parking

October 8, 2023 – VVA/AVVA general membership meeting in Cheboygan

The Chateau by Black Lake lodge

August 5-9, 2025 – National VVA Convention – New Orleans, LA, Marriott

Closing prayer Floyd Carmichael

Adjournment: 12:55 PM

Minutes taken by Secretary Gary Estermyer

Lodging in the Battle Creek, MI area:

Fairfield Inn Red Roof Inn Holiday Inn

4665 Beckley Road 5050 Beckley Road 12812 Harper Village Drive

Battle Creek, MI 49015 Battle Creek, MI 49015 Battle Creek, MI 49014

269.979.8000 269.979.1100 269.979.0500

Vietnam Veterans of America Michigan State Council