Oct 05

Of a war he once fought in, and the deeds he had done. In his exploits with his buddies. They were heroes, everyone!

And tho’ to his neighbors, his tales became a joke. For alas they did not know of the places where he spoke.

But we will hear his tales no longer, for the man has passed away. For the world is much poorer cause a Soldier died this day.

He won’t be mourned by many, just his children and his wife. For he lived an ordinary, very quiet sort of life.

He had a job and family, going quietly on his way. Since the world won’t note his passing, Tho’ a Soldier died today.

When politicians leave this earth, their bodies lie in state. While thousands note their passing, and proclaim that they were great.

It is the greatest contribution, to the welfare of our land. When some jerk breaks his promise, and cons his fellow man.

Or the ordinary fellow, who in times of war and strife. Goes to serve his country, and offers up his life!

The politician’s stipend, and the style in which he lives. Is often disproportionate, to the service that he gives.

While the ordinary soldier, who offers up his all. Is paid off with a medal, and perhaps a pension small.

It is so easy to forget them, for so many times it’s so. That our Bobs, Jims and Johnnies, went to battle, but we know.

It is not the politicians, with their compromise and ploys. Who won for us that freedom, that our country now enjoys.

Should you find yourself in danger, with your enemies at hand. Would you really want a politician with his ever shaky stand?

Or would you want a soldier-his country and his kin. Just a common soldier who would fight until the end?

He was just a common soldier, whose ranks are growing thin. But his presence should remind us, his likes we will need again.

If we cannot do him honor, while he is here to hear his praise. Then at least give him honor at the end of his days!

Respect each other for we know not how long we are here for. This is a long poem but worth it.

You can access your DD214 online at http://vetrecs.archive.gov . Check it out. For general information on VA benefits and programs, visit the VA'sat http://www.va.gov . VA has developed a specific AgentWeb Page in conjunction with the help line. It can be seen at http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/21/benefits/herbicide .

We all know of the devastation that hurricane Katrina caused. We have a donations jar on the bar if you would like to donate.

Come out for men’s night and watch your favorite team play on the new BIGSCREEN TV. There will be drink specials during the games.

WEST PLAINS – Feature length and documentary films, art displays and several guest speakers with ties to the Vietnam War are scheduled to be part of the activities that are being held along with the week-long visit of the Moving Wall in West Plains. The Moving Wall, a half-size replica of the 493-foot, six-inch black granite Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall that stands in the Mall in Washington, D.C., will be on display Oct. 3-9 on the east side of the West Plains Civic Center. The wall contains the names of 58,245 servicemen and women who died or were declared missing in action as a result of the conflict. The exhibit is being co-sponsored by the AmVets Post 98 Ladies Auxiliary and the Missouri State University-West Plains University/Community Programs (U/CP) department. The Moving Wall exhibit will close at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 9, with a special ceremony featuring Brig. Gen. Carl Johnson-retired.

From the Commander

To all members. We have improved the Post for your enjoyment and entertainment, YET you do not come out for the functions that we have here at Post 639. I am disappointed, and very confused as to WHY. We have a Catfish dinner every third Friday of each month. ( all you can eat for Under Ten Bucks plus other items on the menu). The Ladies Auxiliary has a dinner on the 1st Saturday of each month, and Gene hosts Karaoke that same night. Crowds are picking up, but, we have 500 members and only 25 to 40 come out. In the next 3 months we will be having several events. In October there will be a Halloween party so dress up and have fun here with us. On November 4th the Veterans from Mount Vernon will be here, and also don’t forget the Veterans Day Parade. The Sons of the Legion will be hosting our Thanksgiving dinner this year so try to be here for that. December 4^th, we will again be hosting the annual Toys For Tots motorcycle run. Future events are…The Children’s Christmas Party, The New Years Eve Party and other great events still in the making. If you have not been coming out to the Post or going to the Bingo hall on Fridays, try to do so. This helps support the Ladies Auxiliary and our Post.

Phil Richardson

Adjutant’s Report

The 2006 Membership cards are in. You can mail your dues in to the Post. But if you wish to pay at the bar when you come in, leave

it with the Bartender. If I’m present I will help you renew your membership due’s. Let’s make 100% before Jan. 1^st in membership. We have 260 unpaid members. If you are one of these members then lets get it done. You are what makes this post go forward with your dues.

J.C. Ponder

Ladies Auxiliary

Well we had the drawing for the beautiful tablecloth done by Verla Robertson. The winner was Shelly McAninch with ticket # 602262. Congratulations. Lance’s party went well and we all enjoyed it. We had a good district meeting and we wish all the ladies, good luck and it was nice to have you in the house. On Oct 1st there will be a BBQ rib dinner with lots of extras. Hours are from 4:00 to 7:00 @ $5.00 a plate. Gene will then do karaoke from 7:00 to 12:00. Octoberfest on the 7th will be a big day for us with the Shhh..auction from 5:00 to 10:00 pm. We will have chili, and a cake walk in which 1/2 of the proceeds will go to Sherwood school. I hope to see you there because it is going to be a great day. Oct.15th is the retirement party for a special ROSE MAN, his wife, Katie, and Rich Richardson with dinner at 6pm and live entertainment at 8pm. Dish to pass will be appreciated. They will all be inducted into the “Honey-Do Club. The Post Halloween party will be on Saturday Oct. 29th Kids party is from 1 to 3 pm and the adults party is from 7 to 10. Dress up and be here for the fun. Thanks to all the ladies in the Auxiliary just because. Starting in Oct. please send your auxiliary membership renewals to Teresa Chandler 1267 E. Berkley St. Springfield MO 65804. She is your new Vice President and a great help to us. I’ve enjoyed being the V.P. for the year but have moved on. Please send your renewals in to Teresa as soon as you can. A special thank you goes out to the B.H.B. for all your help. Thanks to Jay for moving our Iraq collection barrel to the bingo hall every week. There is going to come a day when something special will happen to all the good people that have helped me. Say something kind to someone today, and every day.

Beverly Miller-President

Chaplain’s Report

Mr. James Cooper passed away this month, so keep Mark Cooper in your prayers for the loss of his Dad. This is a very hard time for the Cooper family. David Conchis had a major operation at Cox South. Let’s not forget David in our thoughts and prayers also. Think of Lance Shockley who broke his foot and is facing surgery. I watched the movie A Deer Hunter the other night and at the end of the movie was an appropriate prayer that everyone can say: God bless America land that I love. Stand beside her and guide her with a light through the night from above. From the mountains to the prairies to the ocean white with foam God bless America my home sweet home - God bless America OUR home sweet home. Don’t forget our military men and women and our POW’s and MIA’s in your prayers. They need our prayers and support more than ever now.

Bob Carroll

Bar & Kitchen Report

I would like to start by thanking Greg Carr for the wonderful job that he is doing on the kitchen. I would also like to thank those of you that have used the kitchen and done a good job cleaning up after yourselves. If we all keep up the good work, we can once again have a kitchen to be proud of. Thank you to all who have donated aluminum cans for our recycling project. On Oct. 3^rd we took in 93 lbs. of cans and made $43.20. Sam received $21.60 for the rose garden. J.C. received the same amount for postage for the newsletter. On Monday nights during the football game we will be having drink specials. ALL beverages will be on special. We will also be serving snacks. So come out and watch the game with us, and cheer on your favorite team.

Pat Beattie-Manager

The Veterans Voice Page 3

Editors Report

I would just like to thank all the members who have supported Pat & I in the last few months. The bar is making money for the Post and we are all having a great time with the karaoke show on the first Saturday of the month. Every Monday come out and watch football on the BIGSCREEN TV and cash in on the drink specials. The surprise birthday party, that was arranged by Dea, for Lance Shockley was a huge success and I thank all who attended. Mick’s Golf outing on Saturday went on, even through the rain-and the snacks that Mick provided were enjoyed by the golfers. Thanks to Chris for making the wings and helping to clean up the kitchen. The Early Bird Party was great and the munchies & food were just what the doctor ordered. The blues band (PAWN SHOP) was excellent and I even got to play some harp with them. Please let Pat or I know if you know of someone’s birthday or anniversary so it can be included in the newsletter next month. Like the Commander has said, please come out to the Post and benefit from the fun times that are had. Get Involved. Bill Seelye needs people. He is the BINGO chairman and he doesn’t care if you come out to help or come out to play. JUST COME OUT!

Gene Beattie-Editor

OCTOBER BIRTHDAYS

Gary Wayne-9th

Paula Fleeman-11th

Delores Williams-17th

John & Larry Foss-19th

I’m sure someone will be left out but that is only because no one told me! Gene B.

AMERICAN LEGION FREEDOM CAR

It is amazing how many people do not read a story to completion and assume they know the whole story. What I am talking about is the Number 76 NASCAR representing The American Legion. Team Johnson President Jack Johnson approached the Legion with the idea of putting The American Legion logo out in front of some 75 million fans weekly that attend a NASCAR race. The 76 car will be racing in the Busch Series next year. There will be some ARCA racing this year to expose the young driver to this level of racing. The BIG part of this story is that it has not cost the Legion one cent. The idea is to support the car through NASCAR sales of the Team Johnson shirts, caps, pins, etc. etc. Posts can now make purchases through Emblem Sales and if your order is large enough, you can contact Team Johnson through the Legion website www.legion.org and order the larger quantity at a reduced price. Raffle type events or just selling through the Post is how we need to support this car.Post and each District should appoint a NASCAR Chairman and advise Department of who this person is along with contact information. This information will be forwarded to Team Johnson and that person will receive information to pass on to the others about the car and team. am sure many of you are seeing what can and hopefully will happen. Exposing this car with the Legion logo and an active chairman can bring many new members to our great organization. This is a two way street and I am hopeful that all of you see the possibilities here and do your part. It is up to us so please give this program your support. Your profits can be used to promote and support your own local programs.

MISSOURI BOYS STATE

Our Post has sponsored Nathaniel Paul Aldrich in the American Legion Boys State of Missouri program for 2005. Because of our sponsorship in this program, he has gained invaluable leadership and citizenship skills and knowledge about government that he will use in his school, community and adult life. While attending MBS, he attended the Law Enforcement School of Instruction and was elected to : Deputy Sheriff; fireman, ward I - Ward Committeeman, Ward I - and Model City and County.

If you are interested in what this organization does, the toll free number is 1-877-DIAL-MBS or 660-429-2761.

TENNESSEE SAYS:

A big Git-R-Done and a huge thank you to the Ladies Auxiliary for doing the food preparation for the early bird party. We always tend to overlook them but they are a great asset to this Post. Keep doin’ what you’re doin’ cause it works.

UP AND COMING EVENTS

Oct. 1 ……Rib Dinner 4 to 7

Karaoke With Gene 7 to 12

Oct. 4 ……General Meeting

6:00 PM Dinner

7:00 PM Meeting

Oct. 7…….Ladies Aux. OctoberFest

5 to 10 pm

Oct. 15……..Retirement Party-Sam, Katie & Rich Dinner at 6:00 Band 8:00

Oct. 21…....Fish Fry Friday

5:00 PM until ?

Oct.29…….Halloween Party

Kids-1 to 3 pm Adults 7 to 10 pm

Oct. 31…. E-Board Meeting

6:00 PM

Check with Pat for “Happy Hour” prices on your favorite drinks

What Ya Wait’in For

COME ON IN !!!

Every Friday night

Pull Tabs start at 4:30

Early Bird starts at 6:30

Guaranteed Pay-out will be $ 3,600

Plus

Progressive

Pull Tabs

The Bingo Hall is located at

2032 West Bennett Street

(Just West of Kansas Expressway)

-Across from The Post Office-

LANCE’S BIRTHDAY PARTY

I would like to thank everyone for all their help in putting together Lance's surprise birthday party. I would also like to thank everyone who came. What a groovy success it was! From the afro sported by Gene to the totally groovy outfits of the bartenders, it was truly a night of peace, love and happiness. To everyone who brought munchies, thank you for the love! To those that helped in the setup and cleanup, thank you soooo much to all of you! Crystal, thank you for chauffeuring me around in your "magic bus" and for all the sisterly love! Peace, sister! Ha ha ! Lenny, thank you for your help both in and out of the kitchen and for making sure I didn't burn anything! Ha ha.. what a bro! Beverly, thank you for your "secret" delivery and always making sure I kept my wits about me and didn't panic too much. Gene...thank you for the fantastic, psychedelic tunes and all around cool crooning! To anyone who helped in any way to make this party the success it was, I will forever be thankful to you for helping put the most beautiful smile on Lance's face that I have ever seen. Thank you to all who came to party and share this night with Lance...you put the "G" in "Groovy" and the "L" in "Love". You're totally outtasight!!

, Dea Gonzales

.S. Lance says "ditto" from him too!

Golfing-The Weed Whackers!!!

month’s outing was such a success, despite the rain delay that, we’re going to continue to have this once a month. This month the Weed Whackers are gathering at Horton Smith G.C. on October 16^th at 8:00am for another blind draw scramble. We will again be having food at the post afterwards just in time for the first football game.It’s okay to just show up; however, try and sign-up at the bar so we have enough tee times reserved. , bring a friend. Golf tip of the month: If you want to shave 6 strokes off your game, skip the 1^st hole !

MICK DUNN

Many girls like to marry a military man - he can cook, sew, & make beds, & is in good health, & he's already used to taking orders..

If you think it’s tough being a Vietnam Vet, try being his wife!

"Well," snarled the tough old Navy Chief to the bewildered Seaman."I suppose after you get discharged from the Navy,
you'll just be waiting for me to die so you can come and pee on my grave." "Not me, Chief!" the Seaman replied."Once I get out of the Navy, I'm never going to stand in line again!"

The General-in-training
There was this General-in-training, and his superiors were asking him questions
"What happened on June 6, 1944?""We stormed the beach at Normandy, which later became known as D-Day, sir!"
"What was the turning point of world war 2?""Battle of the bulge, sir!""What's is the importance of May 12" The Man thought and thought "I don't know, sir!"The superior then said "Well, I'll tell your wife that you forgot her birthday"

The General and the shredder.....A young officer is working late at the Pentagon one evening. As he comes out of his office about 8 P.M. he sees the General standing by the classified document shredder in the hallway, a piece of paper in his hand. "Do you know how to work this thing?" the General asks. "My secretary's gone home and I don't know how to run it." "Yes, sir," says the young officer, who turns on the machine, takes the paper from the General, and feeds it in. "Now," says the General, "I just need one copy."

A Quotable Quote "Radio is just a fashion contrivance that will soon die out. It is obvious that there never will be invented a proper receiver!"
- Thomas Edison

Q & A

Q: What do Baghdad and Hiroshima have in common?
A: Nothing, yet..

Q: How many Iraqis does it take to screw in a light bulb?
A: None. They can't turn them on anyway.

Q: How many Americans does it take to screw in a light bulb?
A: Only one, but he does it from 30 miles away using laser targeting, and at a cost of $800,000.

Q: How many members of the coalition does it take to screw in a light bulb?
A: "We are not prepared to comment on specific numbers at this time."

YOU KNOW YOU’VE BEEN IN IRAQ TOO LONG WHEN: You plan on removing all trees and grass in your yard when you get home so it will look more natural—Your idea of sex is 20 minutes of Instant Messaging with your wife on the computer, OK, 10 minutes, who are you kidding?—A rocket or a mortar really isn't a big deal until the crater it leaves is big enough to trip over in the dark on the way to the latrine.—You drink the water from the tap because you want to drop 20 pounds in two weeks

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Phil Richardson

Ladies Auxiliary

Bar & Kitchen Report