Sgt James F Carty, DS VFW Post 1545

We are hoping that our members can find the time to attend our monthly meetings in order to keep our post moving forward

In almost 100 years, as a Veteran presence on the mountaintop, we are faced with not holding onto our charter, mostly due to the lack of member participation serving veterans and the community as we have over the past 96 years. 

The VFW guidelines require that there be officers’ positions filled and programs being maintained. Membership is also guided by the By-laws of the VFW National Headquarters.

In recent years, our membership has declined due to members moving away and passing away. While we have installed some new members, participation by current and new members is non-existent. This is much the same reason that our Auxiliary had to turn in their charter. 

I will report on our VFW Post golf outing next week. It’s always a great day out playing a round of “best ball” golf and having fun trying not to lose too many golf balls into the woods. Christman’s Windham House does such a great job with the arrangements that make it so much fun. 

The deadline is fast approaching in August to file a claim with the earliest possible effective date for benefits in accordance with the Honoring our PACT Act of 2022 (P.L.117-168). 

Prospective claimants who submitted an intent to file notice by Aug. 14, 2023, must follow up with a completed claim within 365 days to preserve eligibility for retroactive benefits dating back to the law’s enactment. 

More than 53,000 veterans have been discharged from military service because they sustained injuries while serving our country in combat.  

These veterans were denied the ability to accomplish their military career goals, by no fault of their own.

To make matters worse, the benefits they receive as a medical retiree are reduced if they receive earned VA benefits.   

This demeaning offset, created by Congress to save money, forces those who have shed blood, sweat, and tears for our country in combat to do without benefits they need to provide for their families. 

We must ensure that benefits for combat-wounded veterans are improved, not eroded. Act and Tell your Senator.

Personally, I had a very nice weekend with family and friends. Had my grill cooking and everyone had a good time. So nice to have a BBQ and have fun with the ones you love. 

As a veteran, there are times I think of comrades I served with that didn’t get the chance to have that. How fortunate for me to be able to enjoy that. 

Please keep our troops still serving our country in your thoughts and prayers and may God Bless America.

Marc Farmilette – Post 1545 Commander