Tag Archives: Iowa National Guard

Commanders Call – September 2017

August is just about over. Man Oh Man! Where does the time go?School has started again, then it’s time for football.

Just a reminder to mark your calendar.  Oct 11th is the membership dinner for the AMVETS, Auxiliary, and the Son’s. Social hour 5 pm, dinner 6pm.

August 18 was our first fish fry in approximately 9 years. It was a great success. People enjoyed themselves and thought the fish was great. We would like to thank everyone for coming and hope to see them next, September 15th 5:30PM to 7:30PM. Thanks to all the people that put in hours organizing and working the fish fry. Special thanks to Tim and Tom Miller from Sumner for guiding us through the first fish fry. Check your WAVP calendar so you don’t miss out on all the activities.

Condolences go out to the Meyer Family. Herb passed away August 12. Herb has done so much for the AMVETS and the Waverly Shell Rock School. It would fill a book with all of his accomplishments. He will be greatly missed.

Also, our condolences goes out to the Schuler Family. Ken passed away August 1st.

If you have any questions or concerns feel free to contact me.

 

Commander

Bob O’Hare

bobohare201@gmail.com

319-404-2311

Welcome to AMVETS Post 79, Waverly Iowa!

With a charter dating back to 1947, the Waverly AMVETS post 79 and its Auxiliary has a longstanding history of service, both to its community, and its veterans.  As we look to the future, we hope to continue the principles which have sustained our mission over the years.  As we make this transition, we look forward to many new projects which will extend our mission into the next generation of service members who, like their predecessors wish to make a better community for those with which they work and live.

 

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We invite you to join us and experience the fellowship of veterans, wives and friends of veterans, both past and present.  Pride in service extends beyond the ranks of the military, and we would be honored to count you among our honored members.

If this is your first time visiting our new page, please take the time to go through our Tutorial.  Please come back on a regular basis, check Latest News and In Memorium for current information.

Commanders Call – July 2016

Ted Lanske 319-240-0734 tedsph98@aol.com

Ted Lanske
319-240-0734
tedsph98@aol.com

*Hard to believe another six months have gone by and the days start getting shorter.  If you get the chance, celebrate this time of the year with any outside activity you enjoy.  I find that even the simplest of things; fire pit on a nice evening with a glass of wine, sitting outside with a morning cup of coffee in the early a.m., enjoying the sound of nature in solitude, are pleasures that so much of the world cannot or will not be able to ever enjoy.  With all our faults and a government we may question, we still live in a country where these things are possible, because of the Veterans before us and those that serve now.  Help AMVETS help Veterans- – – – – – – – – – – – – – – enjoy your summer.

* I attended our State Convention in Marshalltown and was very disappointed in the turnout of AMVETS.  Each year the count of attendees goes down and very few new faces for the future.  It doesn’t help, when we continue at the State level without a good form of communication.  Our State web site has not been updated for a year and without a State newsletter, I understand the resistance to become involved.  That is why I truly appreciate the support I receive from our Post 79 members and those that let me know they check out our newsletter, facebook– Amvets post 79 and go to the web site- www.amvets79.us.  I believe for Post 79 and the WAVP to be successful and continue, communication is the key, and any way we can do that is a plus and would welcome suggestions from you.

*AMVETS is still experiencing problems with both the Department and National regarding membership records and renewal.  If you receive a renewal notice this past month or two, please contact Carl Benning or myself and let us know.  The more information we receive, the better, as we try to correct the problem.

*I have asked in the past, but ask again, whether you are an AMVET, AMVETS Auxiliary, or a Sons member and do any volunteer work, donate blood, have donated goods to your church, Goodwill or similar organization; please let one of your officers know.  This is important, as it demonstrates the commitment to be a non-profit organization.

*Due to several little items, the decision was made at AMVETS State Convention to hold the 2017 convention in Marshalltown.  The AMVETS Convention Corporation will be looking at our facility for 2018 but also will be considering a State Executive Committee (SEC) meeting for early next year.  Presently, the Waverly Area Veterans Post (WAVP) is in the process of hiring a facilities manager, (decision should be made by 1 July) and this person will have their hands full with a lot of responsibilities and decisions.

*The representatives for AMVETS on the WAVP board, effective July 1 will be James Brandau, Carl Benning and Bob O’hare.  If you have concerns or suggestions regarding the WAVP, these are the individuals you should contact.  The other individuals on the board are: Darrel Blasberg, Larry Buchholz, Hank Bagelmann, Martin Heering, Michael Kukral, Richard Miller, Lee Schissel, Bob Davidson, and Roger Metzger.  The annual WAVP meeting, open to the public for comments and questions, with installation of the new representatives is scheduled for July 19, 2016 at 6:00 p.m. at the WAVP (208 8th Ave. SW).  The latest updates on opening, grand opening, state firemen’s convention, and facilities manager should be available.

*Please check the calendar for July activities, food nights, steaks, breakfast and the Heritage Days parade.  I am hoping that the hard work and support by several people (the team) in getting the WAVP trailer fixed up and prepped to be used as a float will pay off and all organizations be involved.  Thanks to Bob & Sally O’hare, Vernon Sebilsky, Fox Tire and Walker’s Auto Salvage for being on the trailer team.  We all know there is no I in Team, but still have those that start too many sentences with I want, but should ask, “What will help make the WAVP better or more successful?”.

* May all of you have a safe, enjoyable and family filled July 4th weekend and summer.

Commanders Call – April 2016

Ted Lanske at Iowa Veterans Cemetery and SUBVETS Tribute

Ted Lanske at Iowa Veterans Cemetery and SUBVETS Tribute

*Spring is here and this being Iowa, add a few thoughts to the list (speed limit, seat belt, etc.) when you are driving.  Children running, bicycles, skateboards and other outside activities where safety is the last thing in a young mind, probably some older minds too, so please, become observant when driving.  It is also the time where we share the roads and highways with farm equipment that is slow moving and seem to appear out of nowhere.  Please add a few minutes to your travel time, don’t reach for another sip of coffee or Mountain Dew; keep your eyes alert and your mindset on driving.

*Update on the WAVP:  Project is progressing rapidly inside the building, with electrical, plumbing, duct work, and H/AC in different stages of completion.  Windows are in, ceiling grid work and insulation being installed.  A Grand Opening date is set for October 8th 2016 at 1200 hrs after the breakfast.   The opening date will be prior to the Grand Opening with several guesses and estimates as to an actual date, and I will try to keep you informed as more reliable and updated construction information becomes available.

*As the opening date approaches, the Board and Committees are looking for involvement from everyone and anyone that has ideas of activities or time to volunteer at the new facility. This will be a work in progress as time moves on as some ideas may not work or may need adjustments.  Please contact any of our AMVETS Board Members with your input or questions.

*We have our AMVETS Auxiliary along with the Sons looking ahead to the Heritage Days activities coming up July 15-17.  In the last few years, these subordinate groups have been the only organizations involved in the actual parade and thoughts have been to broaden this into a WAVP experience.  If anyone has ideas or suggestions in regards to this, please contact me, either by phone or email.

*Please check the upcoming calendars, as AMVETS will continue a monthly steak fry, normally the 1st or 2nd Saturday of the month.  As of now, these are scheduled into the month of August, to be held at the present location (Legion Post).  Check out the Auxiliary’s Thursday food night schedule on the calendar too.

*In another month, AMVETS and subordinates will be selecting or electing Officers for 2016-17.  We need some people to step up and be willing to give a few hours of their time each month.  I promise, you will not be thrown under the truck, but it is crucial that some offices be filled.  Unless someone asks to be Post Commander; you are going to be stuck with me for now.  It was suggested that representation in regards to the WAVP remain as “status quo”; so therefore again, no changes are planned.  That said; any active member is entitled and encouraged to attend and participate at the meetings.  The more people involved equals more and better ideas for the future.

*If anyone, AMVETS, Auxiliary, Sons, or Supporter would be interested in serving or helping in some manner when the new WAVP facility becomes operational, please contact me.  This facility was designed and built to be active, and your help is needed.  HOW CAN WE MAKE AND KEEP IT ACTIVE?  Maybe you have ideas, contacts or experience we could use.  Ex. “Do you have the ability to teach people how to face book or email?”, “Teaching quilting?”, or some other skill or interest.

*AMVETS and Veterans lost a great supporter with the passing of Duane Liddle.  Duane may not have served in the military, but he certainly served this community by being a watchdog of our City Council.  We may not have agreed with him 100%, but no one came to the meetings more prepared and that includes the City staff.  Thank you Duane.

*Last item:  Thank you Wanda/Carl Benning and Jean Lanske for their involvement and volunteer time with the Foreign Food Fair at the Marshalltown Iowa Veterans Home.  A chance to appreciate how hard the staff and volunteers work to make this such an outstanding facility.

*Scholarship applications are available at the High School, which are presented by AMVETS, Auxiliary and Sons.  Otherwise contact me and I will get them or direct you to the appropriate contact.

 

Help AMVETS help Veterans

Commander Call – March 2016

Ted Lanske 319-240-0734 tedsph98@aol.com

Ted Lanske
319-240-0734
tedsph98@aol.com

*First, I would like to express my thanks to Michelle Ferguson for everything she has done this past year.  I may be biased, but believe there are many people that agree; she was the one that led us through this past year at the Canteen and helped make it a success.   Thank you Michelle.

 

*Thanks to all that supported the Ladies Valentine Steaks.  What a great evening and from my perspective, a great social gathering with friends, family and meeting some new people.  Conditions are not perfect for grilling, but very few complaints and none serious. Several visitor compliments from Post 49, Cedar Falls.

*Don’t forget that the Sons of AMVETS will be doing steaks on Saturday, March 5th 5:30 – 8:00 pm.  Please come and support them; although not a large group, the Sons have been there in many ways, quietly supporting us.  On March 24th, the AMVETS Auxiliary will be hosting food night with a menu of chicken noodle over biscuit with green beans and desserts.   March 31st, our past Canteen Coordinator scheduled the AMVETS Commander back doing Chicken Wings plus sides.  (The only thing he can get right without screwing it up according to her)  J The Louisiana hot sauces will be there for the BRAVE.

*If you are an AMVET and have either a daughter or son that meets the requirements of our Auxiliary or Sons, please talk to them about becoming a part of these groups.  They can be as active as they choose, but this is a way for them to show their support for those that have served or are serving.  Contact Ted Lanske, Jean Lanske or John Mohlis if there are questions.

*It is that time of year where the sun may be in your eyes while driving early morning or evening with the added problems of thawing and freezing on the highways.  Momentary blindness or sudden patches of ice lead to numerous accidents so give yourself some extra time and be safe.

*Reminder:  Please utilize 319-483-9287 to call the WAVP Canteen, and on Facebook – Amvets Ladies Auxiliary Post 79, Waverly. IA for up to date information.  Not on facebook?  Then if you have children or grand children close by or frequently visiting, have them hook up to the facebook connection and link for you.  Tell them it’s “payback time”, but smile when you say it and you may be surprised what gets posted.  Don’t forget to check out our website www.amvets79.us  while you have them handy.

Facebook – Amvets Ladies Auxiliary Post 79, Waverly, IA

*Final comment; If you have a friend or acquaintance sitting at home, now is the time with nicer weather to invite them out and stop at the Canteen.  We do serve non alcohol drinks if desired.

*FYI:  Please pass this along to anyone who may have a child or grandchild that is a senior in high school and is looking at furthering their education.  Our local AMVETS Auxiliary will have scholarship applications at the WSR High School Counselor’s office.  They need to be picked up and completed according to directions on the form.  The Iowa Department of AMVETS also has scholarships available for graduating seniors.  These applications will be available at WSR High School also.  If you have questions, please contact me and I will try to have applications available.

*If your AMVETS membership card is unreadable or lost, you can get a replacement for $5.00 or a gold replacement for $15.00.  You can go on line to National or again contact me and I will process it through the internet and you should have it within two weeks.

Help AMVETS help Veterans

Commanders Call – December 2015

wavp logo 3WAVP update as of 11/20/15:  Lower level floor concrete floor has been completed.  Steel supports, concrete core deck installed and 3” concrete floor poured on that, which is the floor for second level.  Steel for stairwells is scheduled for delivery, other steel and exterior walls also scheduled for delivery.  For those that are in warmer climates, we have been under a week of rain, strong wind and now winter snow warnings, so some work has come to a temporary halt.

Ted Lanske 319-240-0734 tedsph98@aol.com

Ted Lanske
319-240-0734
tedsph98@aol.com

*This past month, we have lost two wonderful gentlemen, Veterans, family men, and community members.  It was my pleasure to share time with them being involved in Veteran’s activities, but even better when we could just sit and visit, sharing our experiences and family stories.  I wish to express to the families of Harold Lindeman and Harry Janssen; my prayers and God’s Blessings to all of you and know they left our world just a little better.

*I express my “Thanks” to all that attended our membership dinners, both the Men and the Ladies.  Your support is extremely important at this time as we prepare in the next 12 months to move into our new facility.  I realize and understand that some individuals are disappointed that more information is not provided, but we are trying our best at providing information in pictures on the web sites, slide show presentation on the one TV and occasionally with the Table talk/Latest News pieces I write.  I spend on an average, between 20-30 hours per week volunteering as custodian/maintenance at the Post or meetings/writing/etc. and like some of you, exasperated that things are not progressing faster.  Let me assure you, that there are other members on the board that put more hours than that into this project and will continue to do so.  BUT:  the WAVP is now under construction, progress is being made and we are at a point that the involvement of ALL our organizations and supporters are needed.  Do you have a vision of what the WAVP could be doing; for Veterans, for our community, for our schools, or something outside the box, please contact me, James Brandau or Carl Benning.  Ideas without leadership are like a ship without a Captain, going nowhere.  WE NEED YOU.

*My thanks to everyone that came to the Veterans Day activities at the Centre’,  the volunteers, Bremer County VA, WAVP Honor Guard, Speaker Carl Benning and the biggest THANKS to Jim Vowels and the WSR Band.  AMVETS will not be the coordinator for Veterans Day 2016, but I would hope that it will be in the new facility and we pack the place.  With vision, volunteers and a “Captain”, Veterans Day 2016 should be one for the history books.

*REMINDER:  2016 memberships are due for all, so please renew now and if you were a past social member, stop at the Canteen and renew as a 2016 WAVP Patriot Supporter.  Many of our past social were and are more supportive of the WAVP than some of our Veterans and I accept and appreciate that.

*Christmas season and holidays are upon us, and if you are looking for a special long lasting gift for a young Veteran, think of a Tribute brick recognizing his service.  Are you thinking of a year-end donation, then add to your pledge or make another donation to the WAVP.  YUCK, but tax time is just around the corner.

*From my Family; we wish all of you a “Merry Christmas”, “Happy Holidays” and safe journeys.  Try making someone’s holiday just a little better by:  adding something to the Auxiliary’s box at the Canteen, a toy in “A toy for tots box”, if your church has a giving or gift tree, donation to Bremer County VA for Veterans or homeless shelter, or loose change in a red kettle.  We still live in the greatest country in the world and the generosity of Americans when a disaster strikes elsewhere is proof of that.  Sometimes the greatest gift you can give is your time; visit a sick or home bound friend, help or assist someone to church, volunteer someplace or complete the phone call you have been thinking about for the last year.  Truthfully, I need to take some of my own suggestions.  May God Bless all of you.

 

Help AMVETS Help Veterans

SSgt. Maurice L. Fevold – MIA since 1944

From the Commander:   Although this Airman was not an AMVET, I felt it was appropriate since on several occasions I have mentioned the job the JPAC team and the dedication of the Joint Prisoner of War/Missing in Action Accounting Command does.  This is an example of why the U.S. is special; we never stop looking for our POW/MIA’s.

This was provided through the Iowa National Guard and the office of Col. Greg Hapgood, Public Affairs Officer.

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IOWA WWII AIRMAN RETURNS HOME 70 YEARS LATER image001FOLLOWING DISCOVERY OF REMAINS IN BELGIUM

Nearly 70 years after completing his final bombing mission, Staff Sgt. Maurice L. Fevold is returning home to Iowa.
Fevold, a 21-year old Badger/Eagle Grove, Iowa native was assigned to the 599th Bomber Squadron, 397th Bomber Group (Medium), U.S. Army Air Corps. On Dec. 23, 1944, the first day of aviation operations for the Battle of the Bulge, Fevold, along with five other crew members, took off from Saint Quentin, France onboard a B-26G Marauder bomber aircraft to attack an enemy-held railroad bridge in Eller, Germany. Their aircraft was shot down by enemy anti-aircraft fire near Seffern, Germany, which borders Belgium. A total of 10 U.S. aircraft were recorded as lost in the vicinity of Seffern during this specific mission.

Fevold, the aircraft’s armorer-gunner, and the entire crew were officially declared deceased on Dec. 23, 1944, but their remains were never recovered. In November 2006, the Joint Prisoner of War/Missing in Action Accounting Command – Central Identification Laboratory (JPAC) received information of a possible aircraft crash site near Allmuthen, Belgium. In March 2007, a JPAC Investigation Team surveyed the purported crash site, where human remains and physical evidence were recovered in 2012 by JPAC personnel.

In 2014, JPAC’s Research and Analysis Group concluded a historical association existed between the artifacts and human remains recovered at the Belgium excavation site and Missing Air Crew Report #11985 from World War II. Mitochondrial DNA testing positively identified the remains as belonging to Fevold and other crew members from the missing aircraft.

Maurice Fevold was born Feb. 21, 1923 near Badger, Iowa to John and Carrie (Thorson) Fevold. He grew up in the Badger/Eagle Grove, Iowa area and was a 1941 graduate of Eagle Grove High School.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Jeanette Prime. He is survived by great nephews and great nieces: William Bushman of Missouri; Robert Sweeney of Hawaii; Michael Sweeney of Washington; Vicki Riley of Iowa; and Shelly Everheart.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, Oct. 20 at 2 p.m. at Bruce Funeral Home, followed by interment at the Blossom Hill Cemetery, Badger, Iowa (located northeast of Badger on 110th St. and Racine Ave.), with full military honors provided by the Iowa National Guard. The public is welcome to attend the visitation, funeral, and graveside service.