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Tuesday, October 15, 2024

Veterans in Touch – Shout out to youth

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In these troubled times, we sometimes hear about bad and crazy things that are happening in schools. Well, here is some positive news.

Kennedy Junior High School and Maplebrook Elementary School collected $1,500 during the weeks leading up to Veterans Day.

The Kennedy Student Council decided this year they would design and sell T-Shirts honoring Veterans. The design was done by a 6th grade student. Their enterprise netted $1,100 which was presented to the VFW on Veterans Day. They put Shark Tank to shame. I want these young entrepreneurs in my company.

Maplebrook sold Buddy Poppies this year and presented the VFW with a bucket full of cash in the amount of $400. All of this money went in to the Relief Fund at the Post.

You’ve heard me say many times that all monies in the Relief Fund only can be used to help Veterans and Veterans causes. Some of those areas are Patriot Pen and Voice of Democracy student writing and oratorical contests, teacher of the year, policeman and firefighter of the year, Operation Uplink, and funding the monthly Hines visits to the spinal cord unit. These are just a few programs we support. There are many others that are too numerous to list.

I say to you that when you see Veterans out distributing Buddy Poppies around Memorial Day 2016 give generously.

Since it’s January, it’s time to make some resolutions. For me, the biggest resolution is to be more positive and not so cynical. I vow to look at the good in a situation or event whenever possible. I also will continue my efforts to get Veterans signed up for VA Healthcare and help or direct them in filing claims for benefits and compensation.

For you, two resolutions that you should make are to know where your DD-214 or discharge papers are. I can’t tell you how many times Veterans are trying to file a claim or need the DD-214 and don’t know where it is located.
Secondly, get signed up for VA Healthcare. In these times of uncertainty with healthcare, it is an option you may use.

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Mike Barbour
Mike Barbour
Mike Barbour is a Service Officer, American Legion Post 43, and regular contributor to PN. Also contact him at mbarbour@wowway.com.
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