March 15, 2005

According to articles in the New York Times written by William Galberson on March 10 and 11, 2005 Federal Judge Jack B. Weinstein may have ended a "controversial Vietnam-ear chapter of American history". The judge ruled against a group of Vietnamese who were suing for billions of dollars in damages and would force the United States to pay for environmental clean up of Vietnam. According to press reports the suit claimed that the defoliant, which contained the highly toxic substance dioxin, left a legacy of poison in Vietnam that caused birth defects, cancer and other health problems and amounted to a violation of international law. In a 233-page decision the judge said the complainants did not make their case.

BRAC Looks at Fort Hamilton

The Fort Hamilton Citizens Action Committee, LTD has organized a petition drive to save Ft Hamilton. The Department of Defense is currently examining Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC). Fort Hamilton and the 106 Air Rescue Wing in West Hampton is under investigation for closure. Fort Hamilton the only active duty military base in New York City and the 106 ARW in West Hampton provides a vital service. Send your concerns to Donald H. Rumsfeld, Secretary of Defense, 1000 Defense Pentagon, Washington DC 20301-1000.

VA Budget Opposition

Republican Senator Larry Craig, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs has come out against at least 2 of the 3 major problems with the proposed 2006 VA budget. Sen. Craig and his fellow republicans have come out against the increase from $7 to $15 for prescription drugs and against cuts to state veteran's nursing homes. What the chairman is not opposed to is the proposed $250 per year enrollment fee for category 7 & 8 veterans. Seniors it appears have been able to block changes to social security. Now it is up to veterans to protect their benefits.

Vietnam Wall Experience

The Town of Oyster Bay is featuring the 3/4 size replica of the Vietnam War Memorial this spring at Marjorie R. Post Community Park, Unqua Rd and Merrick Road, Massapequa, NY. The Wall a powerful reminder of the price of freedom will be open to the public April 29-May 1, 2005. Veteran volunteers are asked to call 516 797-7900.

UVO to Recognize WWII Veterans

Joseph Reale, President of the Reserve Officers Association of Long Island is planning a Memorial Day Ceremony for Sunday May 29, 2005 at Eisenhower Park. This annual event sponsored by the United Veterans Organization will feature veterans of World War II. WWII veterans should submit their names and addresses to the UVO so they can be officially invited. Contact: Joseph Reale, 2nd VP UVO, 23 Fern Street, Floral Park, NY 1001-3207 or online ltcreale@optonline.net.

New York City for $25 a Day?

Yes, for rates starting at $25 per day the Soldiers', Sailors', Marines & Airmen's Club can be your Hotel in New York City. Located in Midtown Manhattan, 283 Lexington Ave (bet.36th and 37th Sts) this private club is open to Active Duty, Reserves, Guard, Retired and Veterans. As their advertising brochure says, the offer "convenient, affordable, safe, no frills accommodations". For reservations and information call 212-683-4374.

Suozzi Sends Bulletproof Vests to Family Support Group

When a 5th grader whose father is serving with the 642nd Aviation Support Battalion in Iraq sent County Executive Thomas R. Suozzi a letter requesting bulletproof vest for his father and other soldiers the response was positive. Fifty two used bulletproof vest were discovered in the Probation Department. These vests have been turned over to the 642nd Family Support Group and will be mailed to their soldiers. Our soldiers have the best equipment in the world but extra vests will be used to "harden" military vehicles.

Military Families Guests at STAND UP

Military families with a member serving overseas are invited to attend a STAND UP for MILITARY FAMILIES on Monday May 2, 2005 at the Oceanside Knights of Columbus 2985 Kenneth Place, Oceanside, NY 11572 from 5-9PM. The Knights will provide a free dinner for the family members, children will be entertained by the North Shore Children and Family Guidance Center and 20 representatives from, Military Federal, State, County and private health care providers will be on hand to provide information. Call 516-572-8452 for free tickets.

Veterans Breakfasts

The United Veterans Organization is hosting a Legislative Breakfast Sunday, April 10, 2005 at the 1st Marine Corps District, 605 Stewart Ave Garden City, NY. The breakfast starts at 0830. Tickets cost $10. Military chow is featured. Call Joel Tuchfeld 1st VP UVO for tickets 516-546-4272.

Town of Huntington is hosting a Support our Troops Breakfast Saturday June 18, 2005 at the Huntington Town House. Call 631-351-3012 for more information.

VFW Remembers POW/MIAs

All veterans are invited to attend a Remembrance Service for POWs and MIAs at the St. Francis DeChantel Church, 1390 Wantagh Ave, Wantagh, New York(Southern Parkway to Exit 28s Wantagh Ave,1/2 mile south) on Saturday, April 30, 2005 at 1200 hours. All veterans organizations are welcome to bring their colors. Call Thomas A. Bennet, Chairman POW-MIA, District 1 at 516-437-6248.

Remember the Nassau County Veterans Monument Fund, Inc needs your help to build a Monument for the Vietnam War veterans call 516-681-8214