VFWMG UNIT 4-4149
ACTIVITIES REPORT - December, 2007
2007 CHRISTMAS TOYS FOR TOTS: The Unit stayed busy
helping the Salvation Army with the gathering, organizing, wrapping and
distribution of the toys. We received word that the project had fell
short of gifts for little girls, ages 9-11. We put the word out of the
need and almost overnight the need was met. People were very
generous. According to the local media the drive this year
provided in excess of $100,000 in toys to the area children, that
otherwise would not have presents from Santa Claus. Our Post being the distribution
point for the project gave the Group a new appreciation of the work that goes
into this endeavor. We salute the Salvation Army - job well
done.
WELCOME HOME RIDES: We are proud to say that many more of our
service men and women were welcomed to Midland by our Group and by the Patriot
Guard Riders. We will finish out the year with over 100 Welcome
Homes. We provide the families with helpful information concerning
V.A. benefits as well as VFW Military Assistance Program. The
events are often covered by the media which offers a very positive
exposure of our Group and the VFW.
WEST TEXAS TROOP SALUTE - CHRISTMAS FOR THE TROOPS: This was a
citywide effort to gather and send articles to the Troops serving
overseas. Members of the Group provided assistance in gathering items and
preparing 300+ packages for mailing. Packages included, clothing, books,
videos, CD’s, DVD, personal hygiene products, gum, snacks, sunglasses, insect
repellent, stationary, etc.
MIDLAND WISHES THE TROOP A MERRY CHRISTMAS: Our members
participated in a project of the Permian Basin to send over 5,000 Christmas
Cards to the troops. The members gathered cards from area elementary
students to be included.
WEEKLY RIDES: Though the weather is less than
co-operative, we manage to ride on ocassion. The group
provides literature covering the VFW and it’s programs and flags.
Efforts to recruit membership is a part of every ride.
OPERATION UPGRADE: The group is available with labor
and finances to help with necessary repairs and operations of the
Post.
BENEVOLENCE: Cards and flowers were provided
for bereaved families and hospitalized Veterans.
Lamon Lusk Sanchez Veterans Home, Big Spring, TX : The Auxiliary
members of the Group hosted a Christmas party for the residents. As
they always do, they furnished food and gifts to thank the
Veterans for their service.
Here
is one of the Veterans enjoying the Santa bubble blower.
During
the party the Veterans demonstrated their talents. One Marine plays on
the harmonica while a sailor sings, "Joy to the World".
Operation-Uplink and VetJobs: Each of us carry VFWMG
cards that we distribute which include information regarding the aspects of
this program as part of M.A.P.S. We have opportunity on a regular
basis to direct various Veterans and their families to the services offered by
the VFW. We emphasize the availability of help with phone cards and
job placement.
Permian Basin Vietnam Memorial: The Group
donates money and time to this beautiful and sacred memorial, that is the Pride
of West Texas.
Local Military Assistance: The group participated in the
rebuilding of the home of an active duty marine. The home was damage by a
storm.
National Guard Armory - Charlie Company: One of the
Unit members spoke at the Guard's Christmas party this year. Three active
duty members of the military were recruited as members to our Post.
As
we say goodbye to 2007, a very good year, we do so with a total membership
of 62. We are looking forward to a new year with anticipation of
opportunity to serve our fellow Veterans and our Community. Our
presence is a positive one . . . we can be proud of the accomplishments so
far this year.
Our
Group extends Best Wishes to the VFWMG and hope your 2008 proves to
be prosperous and successful. Hope to see you at Mid-Winter in
Austin. Until then - keep riding with pride in the VFW
organization. Remember, when you are wearing the vest, what you
show the people around you, is how we will all be judged. Ride
with HONOR and INTEGRITY.
Start the year off right. Easy
ways to stay in shape in the new year.