QuAD CITIES CHAPTER 299 WWW.QCVVA299.

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We sleep safely in our beds because rough men stand ready in the night to visit violence on those who would harm us.George Orwell

DECEMBER 2012

CHAPTER 299
VETS IN CRISIS HOTLINE 1.800.273.8255 John Katherman 309.799.7995 johndar2@mchsi.com Vice President-Terry Lynch barb.terry.lynch@gmail.com Secretary-Ron Roman 563.359.3234 ronzor01@Live.com Treasurer-Terry Kramer 309.799.7763 kramertn@sbcglobal.net Membership - Larry Tschappat 309.788.2729 let289@hotmail.com Veteran Service Officers (VSO) Al Butch Huber-VSO 309.721.1453 Steve Lowther-VSO 309.737.2954 VVA National Offices 800.882.1316 VA Outpatient Clinic Bettendorf 563.332.8528 VA Med Cent IA City 319.338.0581 & 800.346.1843 IL Dept of Veterans Affairs VSO Dan Bebber 309.793.1460 RI Cty Vet Ast & VSO Todd Harlow 309.558.3546 VET Cent - Fred Wyemouth 309.762.6954 IL Vet Employ Reps Ken Lilly & John Tolle 309.764.8731 IA Vet Affairs & VSO David Woods 563.326.8723 Honor Guard Co-Captains Dennis Laird - Funerals 309.278.3452 Andy Anderson - Parades C: 563.940.5980 C. Norris & J. Kerr IA Workforce Vet Reps, 563.445.3200

A ChristmAs messAge Your President

As most of us spent approximately two-three years away from home during our time in the military, we all experienced missing our family at some Holiday. Christmas 1969 was no different for me. I arrived in Vietnam on February 20th and was assigned to an infantry company of the First Cavalry Division. We spent almost all of our time deployed from one LZ or another, always looking for Charlie. I was forced to spend Easter in the bush, and even missed Fr. Morettis service because my squad was on perimeter guard. Later, in the Fall, I was lucky enough to be assigned to a rear job with Battalion S-2 at a new FSB located near a district capitol where their were lots of refugees, including Montagnards and Vietnamese farmers, who had all been brought to live there temporarily. As assistant S-2 NCO, someone figured I would be of some service when, each week, we sent out a team to set up a medical clinic for the refugees. I guess I was supposed to gather intelligence! One week in late December, we set up our clinic at the refugee school. Besides the fact that we were actually helping the children medically, they really liked to

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interact with us. Kids are kids, no matter where they are, and they were no different. Besides treating their health issues, and throwing a ball with them, we also gave them some gifts. We always took c-ration items including soap, shampoo, whatever else we could find, and of course, candy. Im not sure if those Vietnamese kids had seen American candy before, but it was like we had given them the World! Their teachers told them not to eat too much at once or they would be sick. They still beamed like it was the best present they had ever been given and I guess it made us feel pretty good too. It made me feel as if I had helped those Vietnamese kids experience Christmas, even though it was something not usually found in their culture. Merry Christmas to you all! John Katherman President Vietnam Veterans #299

upcoming chapter 299 events PRESIDENTS MESSAGE; PAGE 8 ARMY a message from barrie gibson INSIDE: MiNuteS ANd MOtiONS; PAge 2 albracht receives third silver star HeRO ANd NFL LegeNd; PAge 9 WWW.

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VVA299 BoArd of dIrectors meetIng- 9 octoBer2012 VVA299 memBershIp meetIng-16 octoBer 2012
the Vets Home in Mautino, IL and the The Caf on Vine for our participation and donations. A request from the Boys and Girls Clubs was tabled until clarification of whether we have already given to them this year. Terry Kramer confirmed Comments by President Please keep Craig Morton in previous donation to Boys your thoughts and prayers. and Girls Clubs in March, so they are not eligible for Hes battling Multiple additional funds this year. Myeloma. Bob recommended cash donations of $400 each to Present were: President Christian Care Mens Center John Katherman, Dennis and Caf on Vine to help Laird, Paul Eaves, Larry their programs. We have Tschappat, Terry Kramer, given extra food to both Ron Roman, Terry Lynch, of these organizations, but Ray Hamilton, Jerry Goodwin, Jim Loveless, Bob they have not been official recipients of cash donations Brooks. in the past. Terry Kramer confirmed also that we Committee Reports had given a donation to Christian Care previously Membership Larry this year. No additional Tschappat reported 404 funds can be allocated until members, 209 are Life. next year. Additionally, it AVVA at 40 members, 12 are Life. If a vet is classified was recommended to give as permanently hospitalized $400 to Humility of Mary for their Vets Homeless (even at home) they are Outreach Program for eligible for a free VVA membership. Contact Larry housing. Motions were if you know of an individual moved, seconded and approved for both who may qualify. donations of $400 each to Caf on Vine and Humility Charities Bob Brooks of Mary. Frenchy Eaves received thank yous from Call to order by President John Katherman with the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence remembering our fallen and missing Brothers and Sisters. brought up a donation to Toys for Tots, which we have supported previously. They have contacted us previously. It appears we did not receive a request in 2012. Frenchy moved and was seconded and approved for a donation of $200 when we have in hand a request. Jerry Goodwin discussed a letter he received requesting donations for phone cards for wounded active duty who are recovering in Germany. Jerry will look into this further and bring to the membership meeting. Treasurer Terry Kramer reported the monthly financial information. The Report was accepted as submitted. Old Business

Cooker Ray Hamilton reported on recent events and amounts collected. He reminded the Board that funds are expended to prepare the meals and the event checks trail for income by a month or so. Final accounting is expected to return to the Chapter a nice return on our investment of time and money. The group, with Dan Carothers and Jim Honor Guard Dennis Parrishs help, is working Laird reported on 2 recent on improvements to the funerals and several upcoming events in October system for next year, including: improvements to and November, including the burner and regulator our Vets Day dance and system, to improve festival of Trees Parade. consistent heating; Please see STS for specific improvement to the storage schedule of events. and setup system, and other improvements. If Vet2Vet Paul Frenchy Eaves reported the last trip youd like to help out in the to Iowa City VA until spring future, please contact Ray will be on 10/17. Visits over Hamilton. He continues to need names for volunteers the winter will be to local for next year. Nursing/Assisted Living homes.
minutes cont. on page 3

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Golf Outing This years outing was another great success for the committee, which netted over $10,000 for their efforts. One of our largest fund-raising events, these funds helps with the charitable donations the Chapter makes throughout the year. Veterans Day Dance The table and dance floor configuration has been improved, to help eliminate crowded areas. Web Site Ray initiated discussion on e-mails hes received for information, as he is still listed as the President. It was agreed that the website needs to be kept more current, with upcoming event particularly. John will contact Joe Murphy regarding this issue. New Business The State Council meeting will be held at the Hilton in Springfield, IL. on 15 Dec 2012. Larry brought up the use of e-mails for emergency Board decisions, discussion and voting. Terry Lynch discussed progress working with Danny Witherspoon to develop a flyer for use in local outreach to the minority communities. 50 baskets each will be donated to needy vets and others for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Ford Dealers will be participating in a U-DriveIt program, donating $20 to charity for each driver test-driving a new Ford on a specific date. Meeting adjourned at 2025 hours. Respectfully submitted, Ron Roman, Secretary Membership Meeting-16 October 2012 Meeting Called to Order by President John Katherman. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited followed by a moment of silence remembering our fallen and missing Brothers and Sisters. The invocation was given by Paul Lane. 25 Members were present. Presidents Comments John introduced member Bruce Petersen who gave a slide presentation on cemeteries for veterans in the U.S. and overseas. A quote from the presentation was very memorable, given the upcoming annual celebration of Veterans Day: Only two defining forces have ever offered to

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die for you Jesus Christ and the American Soldier; one died for your soul and the other for your freedom. Approval of Minutes Jerry Goodwin moved that the Minutes for the 18 September 2012 Membership meeting be approved. Motion was seconded by Jim Kerr and approved by members present after correction was made that Danny Weatherspoon, not Gary Park, was working with Terry Lynch on an outreach membership flyer. Committee Reports Membership President John reported for Larry Tschappat, 404 members, 209 Life and AVVA has 40 members. Charity Bob McSparin reported the committee recommended donating $400 for the Humility of Mary Shelter for Vets. Bob Brooks moved, motion seconded and approved. The committee also recommended donating $400 for Caf on Vine. Bob Brooks moved, motion was seconded and approved. The committee also recommended donating $200 to the Orion VFW/ Legion to help offset the cost of the reception following naming of

Michael Leaf Road. Bob Brooks moved, seconded by Jim Kerr and passed. Honor Guard Andy Andersen reported on recent and upcoming events. Please refer to the issue of STS for a complete listing. Andy also reported on $300 in donations so far this month. Vet2Vet Frenchy Eaves reported the upcoming visit to the Iowa City VA hospital tomorrow, 10/17. This is the last out of town trip until spring, resuming trips to Iowa City in April. Please see the STS for upcoming scheduled local visits to nursing and assisted living homes. Treasurers Report Terry Kramer reported the monthly income and expenses. The report was accepted as presented. Old Business Hog Roaster Several recent events were held at various Group O locations. The season is wrapping up and the cooker will be mothballed for the winter.

minutes cont. on page 4

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albracht awarded 3rd silver star

Bill Albracht was awarded his third Silver Star at an Award Ceremony at 10:00 AM, on 15 December 2012. The Ceremony took place at Headquarters, First Army, Rock Island Arsenal. Colonel Steve Merkel, First Armys Chief of Staff, with Congressman Bobby Schilling in attendance, will present the Award. This Ceremony was open to the public. During the height of the Vietnam Conflict, Bill was to be transported by a conventional helicopter to the Special Forces camp at Bu Prang to receive this Award. This was done despite the high winds that had grounded all other helicopters, including Medevacs, for that day. However, as Bills helicopter landed at Bu Prang, and he was preparing to board it, Bill discovered that four US soldiers at Bu Prang had been gravely wounded in recent firefights but could not be airlifted by Medevacs to better facilities because of the high winds that day. Typical of Captain Albracht, he asked his pilots to take the wounded with him and transport them to a medical facility first...before taking him on to Ban Me Thuot for the ceremony. But by the time the helicopter had delivered the casualties to a distant field hospital and finally brought Captain Albracht to Ban Me Thuot, the commanding general was forced to depart, after patiently waiting as long as he possibly could. Thus, this well-deserved recognition has been delayed for 43 years! For those who dont know why this Award came to be, here is the back-story: For valor far above and beyond the call of duty in combat during the siege and evacuation of Fire Support Base Kate near Bu Prang in the Central Highlands of the Republic of Vietnam from 28 October through 2 November, 1969. Fire Support Base Kate, a remote outpost for a US Army artillery battery secured by a Civilian Irregular Defense Group (CIDG) under the command

of Captain William L. Albracht, was first besieged on 28 October by massive North Vietnamese infantry and artillery units as part of a larger strategy to seize the provincial capital of Ban Me Thuot and conquer the whole of Dak Lak province. Though the North Vietnamese forces were many times larger than Kates defenders, Captain Albrachts calm and reassuring leadership enabled his forces to withstand wave after wave of initial attacks. On 29 October, he himself carried a

grievously wounded trooper to safety under withering enemy fire, and then risked his life again by exposing himself in open ground to direct incoming Medevac helicopters for his men. During one of the landing attempts, when he spotted the launch of an enemy rocket toward the Medevac, he managed

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membership report
As of 25 NOV 12, we have a total of 384 VVA members. Our newest LIFE members are Dennis Scrutchfield, Paul Lane and John Schneck. Our latest 3-year renewal is Ken Stearns, and our newest annual member is Jordon Willis. Welcome aboard, guys !! AVVA Chapter 299 has 42 members currently. Id like to recognize Jim Clark for his 3-year renewal. Way to go, Jim !! To all VVA & AVVA members....please remember that if a date appears behind your name on your newsletter mailing label, its indicating you need to pay your dues. Still not sure, call me at (309) 7882729 and I will be glad to answer any questions you might have. Last, I regret to report the deaths of two former members: Harry Bottorff on 10 OCT 12 (Army) and Alvin Al Collins Jr on 28 AUG 12 (Navy). Our condolences to both their families. Respectfully, Larry Tschappat Membership Chairman

chapter varsity JacKets ~ stay warm & looK cool doing it!
A Chapter Varsity Jacket order will be placed soon. This made in the USA Official Chapter 299 Black Varsity Jacket has black leather sleeves, 100% black wool body and (you guessed it) black insulated interior is and is an absolute steal at the prices below. Now add the beautifully embroidered full color VVA logo with CHAPTER 299 on the left breast and you have thee coolest jacket coast-tocoast - border-to-border. Our Chapters intent of selling these fine jackets for half what is charged retail, is to advertize who we are and promote interest in what we do. Prices are as follows: XS, S, M, L, XL : 2X, 3X : M Tall 2XL Tall : 4X, 5X, 6X : 3X-T, 4X-T, 5X-T : $115 $120 $120 $125 $130

editor.vva299@gmail.com with your order. Payment due on delivery. Checks are to be made out to VVA 299. AND to our many members that are unable to attend meetings due to time or distance, WE SHIP!

See or call Jim Hixson (309.792.0068) or e-mail him at

SHOuLdeR tO SHOuLdeR iS bROugHt tO YOu eAcH MONtH bY: BILL ALBRACHT & JIM LOVELESS NEWSLETTER CO-EDITORS SeAN MuRPHY - cHAPteR WebMASteR & NeWSLetteR cOORdiNAtOR JIM HIxSON; MANAGING EDITOR [ 309 ] 792-0068 E-MAIL = NxG211@QCONLINE.COM

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2012 vva 299 color guard Vets dAY dAnCe & PArAde

hog roaster news 2012

We are conducting our last VVA Chapter 299 luncheon roast of the year at Suburban Construction, Davenport, Iowa on December 14 for the Suburban employees. Suburban Construction is a repeat customer and a good VVA 299 supporter. The roaster will undergo some efficiency modifications this winter and the catering committee is anticipating the purchase and modification of a logistical support trailer for future roast use. This will be done pending approval of the Board of Directors and the membership during the off-season. Through the efforts of Bob Jackson and Dan Carothers and their collective computer skills, the catering aspect of the Chapters fund raising capabilities vis-a-vis the hog roast venue has become more efficient and manageable with the implementation of computerized record keeping and accounting procedures with the application of the Excel Program. Thanks Dan and Bob

Purchase of a Dinner Entree includes 1 house drink of your choice. Present this coupon when ordering. Compliments of Bud Canfield!
Offer expires 2/28/13.

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Ann mArgret.... viet nam1966

Richard, (my husband), never really
talked a lot about his time in Vietnam, other than he had been shot by a sniper. However, he had a rather grainy, 8 x 10 black and white photo he had taken at a USO show of Ann Margret with Bob Hope in the background that was one of his treasures. A few years ago, Ann Margret was doing a book signing at a local bookstore. Richard wanted to see if he could get her to sign the treasured photo so he arrived at the bookstore at 12 oclock for the 7:30 signing. Before her appearance, bookstore employees announced that she would sign only her book and no memorabilia would be permitted. Richard was disappointed, but wanted to show her the photo and let her know how much those shows meant to lonely GIs so far from home. He presented the book for her signature and then took out the photo. When he did, there were many shouts from the employees that she would not sign it. Richard said, I understand. I just wanted her to see it. She took one look at the photo, tears welled up in her eyes and she said, This is one of my gentlemen and I most certainly will sign his photo. I know what these men did for their country and I always have time for my gentlemen. With that, she pulled Richard across the table and planted a big kiss on him. She then made quite a to-do about the bravery of the young men she met over the years, how much she admired them, and how much she appreciated them. There werent too many dry eyes among those close enough to hear. She then posed for pictures and acted as if he were the only one there. Later at dinner, Richard was very quiet. When I asked if hed like to talk about it, my big, strong husband broke down in tears. Thats the first time anyone ever thanked me for my time in the Army,.

That night was a turning point for him. He walked a little straighter and, for the first time in years, was proud to have been a Veteran. Ill never forget Ann Margret for her graciousness and how much that small act of kindness meant to my husband. I now make it a point to say Thank you to every person I come across who served in our Armed Forces. Freedom does not come cheap and I am grateful for all those who have served their country.

If youd like to pass on this story, feel free to do so. Perhaps it will help others to become aware of how important it is to acknowledge the contribution our service people make. *submitted by Dan Johnson

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a rescue position about five kilometers away. The enemy responded with a heavy machine-gun attack on the escaping column as soon as it left Kates perimeter, but the captains tireless leadership kept the troops intact and moving. For the next six hours, Captain Albracht continued to lead his men through the pitch-black jungle, often within earshot of the North Vietnamese patrols who were frantically hunting them, until they reached the border of a clearing whose far side might contain the Mike Force or might contain certain death from a waiting North Vietnamese ambush. Ordering his column to remain concealed on the border, Captain Albracht, in an incredible act of personal bravery, proceeded alone across the clearing, found the Mike Force, then crossed the clearing twice more to return to his column and

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to warn the crew safely away just in time, but was himself wounded by shrapnel from the rockets impact. He steadfastly refused evacuation for treatment, however, both then and later during the siege. By 1 November, relentless attacks by the enemys larger forces had reduced Kates defenders to only a hundred and fifty US and allied soldiers who were now in imminent danger of being overrun. Resupply flights and daytime air support by helicopter gunships had halted because of enemy ground fire, and evacuation was the only option left. So as nightfall brought a moonless darkness on that date, Captain Albracht still ignoring his own woundspersonally led his forces into the nomans-land of the jungle to join up with a II Corps Mobile Strike Force, also known as a Mike Force, that had fought its way to

lead it into the Mike Force perimeter. These combined forces then managed to return through enemy lines to the safety of the Special Forces camp at Bu Prang. At the end of those six harrowing days on 2 November, Captain Albrachts personal bravery, self-sacrifice, and uncanny tactical skills had enabled the defenders of Fire Support Base Kate to not only defend their outpost to the last possible moment, but also to escape against all odds from what would have undoubtedly been a

victorious massacre by the enemy. Because of Captain William L. Albracht, a hundred and fifty US and allied soldiers lived to fight another day. * submitted by Ed Kiely

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A messAge From barrie gibson

I am Barrie Gibson, 299 life member. I was diagnosed with mesothelioma April 2011. I took Chemo until Dec 2011 when I went to Chicago for a removal of meso tissue on the outside of my right lung. That was removed Feb 2012. March, 2012 I had radiation to remove a lump. Then back to Chemo. That was until October, 2012. I went to the National Cancer Center in Maryland this month. I was told there is nothing else that can be done. I am on hospice now for the next 2 to 3 months. I am very positive about all this and have put my faith in the Lord, Barrie

from Joe haJny today: november 21, 2012

Joe is the poet who wrote the poem Welcome Home which he has read at several of the dances. I have been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. This came out of nowhere! All of those who know me cannot believe it. I had been experiencing abdominal pain in my right quadrant as well as discomfort in my right shoulder blade. When I went to my family doctor on Oct. 19 for my annual prostate exam (which was okay), I listed the symptoms I had been experiencing. He recommended the CT Scan. Everything has been a whirlwind ever since. I have undergone various procedures: CT Scan; endoscopy ultrasound; radiation simulation; and PET scan. The current plan is for me to undergo radiation therapy and chemotherapy for an approximately six-week period. Vince Lombardi, the famous Green Bay Packers and the greatest coach of all time, once stated: Its not whether you get knocked down. Its whether you get back up. I have been knocked down a few times in life and I have always gotten back up. However, for this bout I will need all of your support. Please e-mail me with supportive comments or mail me goofy Get Well cards that will make me laugh and smile. My address is: Joseph Hajny 109 Briar Court Washington, Illinois 61571-1905. I would deeply appreciate your efforts and support. Peace, Love, Tie-Dye Joseph Hajny

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New Business Bob Brooks reported plans are moving along well for the Thanksgiving and Christmas Basket program. Hy-Vee has been able to again keep our cost at $25 per basket. Anyone with the name of a vet in need or a vets relatives names, please get them to Bob for vetting. Richard Vanderleest won the $25 drawing and donated it back to the Honor Express. Life Membership drawing was won by Paul Lane. Meeting adjourned at 2040 hrs. Respectfully submitted, Ron Roman, Secretary

merrY ChristmAs And hAPPY new YeAr

As we wrap up Year 2012 we must encourage all to be thankful we are home in the United States of America. It is likely most reading this remember holidays far from home. Chapter 299 has busied itself all year visiting sick and hospitalized Veterans at Veterans Administration Medical Center in Iowa City, State Veteran Homes and private facilities where Veterans reside. Our Vet 2 Vet program managed by Frenchy Eaves is a win win for all; Volunteers and hospitalized Veterans. Chapter 299 participated in the annual Golf Tournament, the Criterium Bike Races and Grand Prix Races and our Welcome Home Veterans Day Dance were big successes. The Chapter Hog Roaster, chaired by Ray Hamilton and his Merry Band of Volunteers continues building a larger following of devotees who cant get enough of their pulled pork sandwiches, great service and is our Chapters largest fund raiser for Community based food basket and charitable donations programs. AVVA is a big part of these successes. Our Color Guard remains the face of Chapter 299 making appearances at ball games, parades and Military Funeral Honors to pay a last Salute to our fellow Veterans. All the above occur from Volunteers despite the weather conditions, with no regard to our advancing age. - and our elections of Officers and Board members ensure Chapter 299 is run well on a month-to-month basis. Your Shoulder-To-Shoulder editors wish to take this opportunity to thank all our Volunteers, Chapter Officers, Board and Chairmen. May you all have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy New Year. JL, BA, JH

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