New Member Spotlight
News
Honoring our Korean War Veterans
By Harold Rodenberger
About three years ago, this newsletter featured a story by our member, Al Simpson, about his memories of Korea in August, 1953. It was a moving story of an eye witness to the “Big Switch” operation as prisoners were exchanged after the war.
Last winter, during the annual Christmas Party held in our post home, Al Simpson was able to reminisce about his experiences in Korea with one of our newer members, Pio Park, and some members of his family.
A little later that night, Pio told me, “It is because of your country and soldiers like Al, that Korea is free and our people are able to live in freedom and enjoy prosperity.”
I have often remembered that scene and Pio’s words have echoed in my mind ever since. This was a genuine tribute from those who were helped by our veterans. Other people who have been helped have expressed similar sentiments wherever our veterans have served.
The Korean Conflict has often been called “the forgotten war” or a “police action” by Americans. Our veterans who served there and the families of those who died there will not forget the war. The Government of the Republic of Korea wants to honor those vets with the Korean Ambassador for Peace Medal.
If you served in Korea during that war, desire to, but have not received this medal, please contact our quartermaster to coordinate attendance at an award ceremony.
During the 65 years since the armistice was signed in July, 1953, the Korean peninsula has been a study in contrasts. South Korea has had its ups and downs but has progressed steadily toward freedom and prosperity. North of the DMZ, on the other hand, those years have seen endless misery and hardship for the people.
These past couple months, there have been some favorable signs that peace may come at last to the Korean peninsula. It’s still early and there have been aborted efforts in the past but I hope this time will be a charm and a peace treaty will finally replace the armistice.
In Memoriam: Bob Ferguell
During the April business meeting the post charter was draped with a black cloth for the following comrade who recently passed away. The charter will stay draped for 30 days in his honor.
Bob Ferguell – U.S. Army; Vietnam War. See obituary here.
2nd Quarter 2018 Newsletter Available for Download
Ballard Eagleson VFW Post 3063’s 2nd Quarter 2018 print newsletter is available here. Highlights include From the Commander column; Quartermaster Update; Tiny House Homeless Encampment Moves to Northlake; Auxiliary President Recognizes District, State Officers; New Member Spotlight; and MIA Comrades: Let Us Know How You Are Doing.
Auxiliary President Recognizes District, State Officers
By Donna Limric
The members of the Post 3063 Auxiliary are working hard to rebuild our organization. Our goal is to become strong and active. We now have a business license for the auxiliary, so we are recognized by the state! Thank you to our treasurer Liz Guncay for all your hard work!
I would like to recognize the help from auxiliary members outside our post. First a huge thank you to District 2 Auxiliary President Lois Mezek. Louis has been to every meeting, and there by phone and e-mail with whatever we need. She has been guiding us every step of the way. The following individuals have also been of great help: State Jr. Vice President Kathi Naff, State Conductress Barbara Moore, and State President Laurie Lukas. Finally, the post itself has been enthusiastically encouraging us while affording us the space to get back on our feet.
Our auxiliary’s first event will be a book sale on May 5–6. The hours will be announced very soon. We will have fliers and post the hours on our Facebook page. This will be the same weekend as the grand opening weekend of the Nordic Museum. Please come down and explore what we have to offer. The proceeds from the book sale will benefit the Heroes in the Ballpark fund.