Wildfleken Veterans Association Headlines

VA Health Care

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Some of you know that I am a disabled veteran since 1995. The VA is and has been my primary health care provided since I was medically discharged in 1995. I have no real complaints for the care that they have provided me. I can't deny that I haven't had some problems, but I have always over come them. Okay let me get to my point. I have noticed some changes in the way we are processed for an appointed. For example when you showed up for an appointment you normally would see a triage nurse where she takes your vitals and ask why you are there. That's it. However, now they are asking for your family history, if you have been depressed, are you having any difficulty in getting around etc. etc. This all started about 6 months ago and it is getting more intense. Do yourself a favor. LIE. Tell them your family lived till their 90's. I believe they are going to use this information for a 'End of Life" category. I truly believe your care will start to drop off depending on factors referenced to your family history and illnesses. The information they are collecting goes into a database which will give a average life span of everyone. If you tell them you Mother died at a young age of cancer and your father died after having a heart attack at 55 then the likely hood of you living past 60 is very possible. Percentages of Probability so to speak. When this system is caught up and you are over 60 they will more or less tell you to take 2 aspirins and call them in the morning. I am 100% service connected. I have been since I was 51. I am now 65 and going strong. How much more health care and compensation will I continue to receive under the Obama Health care plan. What I see in my future is dismal at best. In 1990 I had a quintuple Coronary Bypass. This year it is 19 years. Every year it gets harder for me to get around. I could be looking at needing a new heart in a year or two or will it be 2 aspirins, Think about it.

Are we repeating history?

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Islamic extremist group reportedly linked to Al Qaeda held its first official conference on U.S. soil in an attempt to step up Western recruitment efforts. Members of Hizb ut-Tahrir � a global Sunni network with reported ties to confessed 9/11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and Al Qaeda in Iraq's onetime leader Abu Musab al-Zarqawi � met Sunday inside a Hilton hotel to host a conference, "The Fall of Capitalism and the Rise of Islam." This conference is tied to implementing Sharia Law through out the world.
Sound Familiar? Read history. The American Nazi Party did exactly the same thing at Madason Sqaure Garden in NY before the Second World War. Are we about to see the making of the third world war? I wouldn't bet against it. A lot of us are to old to do anything about it but we all can fight against it by doing one thing. Educate our Children and Grand Children. Teach them History. Because we are about to repeat it. Frank Gaffney former Ass't Deputy Secretary of Defense expresses concern about this and the security of our freedom at the Center for Security Policy

Arab Festival 2009

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Here is a perfect example of what we should expect from radical Muslims. What they don't understand is that the Constitution Of the United States of America gives us the right of Freedom of Choice. Freedom of Speech, Freedom of Expression And it seems they are using these freedoms against us. However, I will never agree to Sharia Law. And if Sharia is ever forced on our society, I will protect the Constitution to the fullest extent of the Oath I took. They have a right to expression and choice but they don't have the right to force Sharia Law and side step the Constitution. Watch the following video. This is a video of David Wood and Nabeel Qureshi asking questions at Arabfest, Dearborn, Mich. The date is June 21st, 2009. There was a booth at the festival which had a banner titled "Islam: Got Questions we have answers Click here to see this Sharia in Michigan.

If this doesn't make you angry, nothing will.

Wildflecken Veterans Association

What I just heard on the news this morning of Feb. 15th made me sick. It seems the UN is now asking for 0.7 percent of the stimulus package. Over 5 Billion Dollars. They claim they need to help people outside of the United States. This would be on top of the 0.2 percent of the GNP we give them every year. The United Nations has to go. We need to send them to France. I remember the seventies under Carter. 11% unemployment, 21% Mortgage Interest and double digit inflation. I don't remember a stimulus package. We all rode it out and we got over it. I say any Company who can't make it let them fold, they brought it upon themselves. There has been many a farmer who folded and no one bailed them out. I feel so bad for my grand children. They are going to be paying 50% income tax or better to get us out of this hole that we keep digging. I am so glad I am nearing the end of my time on the face of the earth. I hope our young people realize how their futures are being stolen. I hope they throw everyone one out of office and bring in those who want the United States to be a Republic in a Democracy with the all the freedoms that we have all enjoyed in the past. But what I am hearing now is that we are getting closer and closer to a Socialistic State. Nationalizing Banks, Nationalizing the Health Care system, The Fairness Act or more appropriately "Media Controlled Act" I sometimes wonder why we wore a uniform. Is it all now in vain.

The Fairness Act here is another Bogus thing the far left is pushing. I guess the far Liberal Left doesn't know how to compete. They tried talk radio (Air America) and failed, so now they want us to pay for them for equal time on the radio the same way we now pay through taxes for NPR (National Public Radio) and take away guys like RUSH. This is all pathetic.

SCAMS

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Between the condition of the economy this year and the Christmas season these holidays will not be depressing enough without adding SCUMBAG SCAMS. I just received one of those donation calls from a guy who acts like he knows me. You know the type..... Hey Don! This is Keven... I say Hi, and then the bull shit starts. "I am from the Professional Firefighters Association of Georgia" I said "Really" he says "Really" and I asked "What part of Georgia are you calling from?" His answer... a resounding "CLICK" yup he hung up. Asshole! Don't be fooled by these brainless twits. Fire Departments or associations representing them DO NOT solicitate funds using a public conveyance. As is any of our great Law Enforcement Agencies and their associations. These are SCAMS. Low life morons who take advantage of our first responders efforts to protect us as we sleep under the blankets of security. DO NOT, I SAY AGAIN.... DO NOT DONATE a penny to these fools. If they can prove they adhere to the IRS 501 rules I can guarantee you that for every dollar they get, the organization they soliciting for might see a dime if that much. They are the lowest form of scum on the face of the earth.. Now if you want to make a donation to your local volunteer fire department, drop by one of the stations and ask what the address is to mail a donation. Other than that tell the idiot who calls that he is an idiot or just hang up. If you have been the target of a SCAM add a comment to this article.

A necessary evil

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Just blowing steam.

In past years I have been a member of Teamsters Local 804. I have worked with and helped put Ron Carey in office later to become President of the Teamsters Union. (Which didn't turn out to good for him). I was also a member of the once called The Mechanics and Machinists Union. I have supervised union employees and always received the greatest respect from most. The rest I fired. I happen to like unions. I think they are a very necessary evil. After moving south to a right to work state I see what exploitation larger companies are perpetrating against hard working people. They are under paid and over worked. When the ask for raises, for the most part they would get fired. The usual response from the empty suits are "If you don't like it, leave". The State of Arkansas is trying to resend the "Right to work" for the reasons, it is hurting their economy. Having said all this doesn't mean I am positively in support of all unions. They have faults. The first thing that comes to mind is the right of unions to look into Company books. This approach has put all of but a few news papers in NYC out of business, lord knows how many across the country. Wildcat strikes is another reason unions have become weak. They are wrong and they produce no results but loss of pay. But again it is my opinion that this Country needs unions. Blue collar workers need protection. White collar workers have Lawyers. Who protects those people without unions? Companies on a whole do not adhere to Federal/State Labor Laws. Case in point the Factory in Illinois. No one is guaranteed a job for life. Companies go out of business. But They don't go out of business over night. The bean counters always know when the last buck runs out. These workers got the shaft big time. Bonuses and Severance pays are pre-negotiated perks. If it isn't there, then they don't get it. But Federal Law Requires each employee is given a 60 day notice of proposed lay offs. These Illinois workers weren't given any notice. My hat goes off to these workers for standing for their rights under the law. Kudos to them and Kudos to the Governor of Illinois who has just suspended all transactions with Bank of America. Everyone should take a lesson from all this. "DON'T BE SHEEP" if you want to be sheep then be PREPARED TO BE LED TO RUIN. Just because someone says you can't do it, doesn't mean you can't. Do your homework, research and speak with specialized Attorneys. I guess I said enough. Now I feel good.

Love you all and yours and Merry Christmas

Mac.

How about a Raise

Wildflecken Veterans Association

I just got finished sending out a letter to the DAV and VFW. (See below) Did you know that the Disabled Veterans of this country hasn't received a catch up raise in over 60 years? Yes this is true. Oh I know we get COLA.. big deal. 2008 was 2.8% WOW! I can buy another loaf of bread with that. 2009 will be the biggest COLA increase in years at least 6%. But there is a thing called CORE Inflation which isn't included in COLA. CORE Inflation is Fuel and Food. This has gone up over 27% over 2008. The Active Duty Military, USAR, NG get catch up raises every few years along with COLA. These catch up raises commensurate with what you would make doing the same job on the civilian side of the house. What about the Disabled Vets who are at 100% Service Connected Compensation who aren't allowed to work. What about the pay difference if they were working in their trade on the civilian side. This is appalling. I have not heard any Candidate nor have I read or heard any comments addressing this issue from organizations like the DAV and the VFW. Where are they? Where is the support? Where is the backbone. I don't know about you but I am feeling betrayed.

"RESOLUTION NO. 053 INCREASE DISABILITY COMPENSATION"

Where are we with the above resolution? Why aren't the Candidates McCain and Obama using this resolution as a talking point in their campaign? Why isn't the DAV making a issue of this? I watch and read the news all the time. I read the VFW, DAV, magazines and nothing. In the mean time I and I know many like me are sinking deeper into that abyss call BROKE. I am starting to get angry. I am starting to feel betrayed by the VFW the DAV, and the US Government. I wrote all of you once before about a projected time in which I will loose my home. I set that at 5 years from now. And that was about a year ago. I can no longer keep it maintained. Make some noise! Show some backbone! Get us that raise. Remember us.

Sincerely
Don McLaughlin
USA, Ret.

Delta no longer a viable means of transportation

Wildflecken Veterans Association

I took a Delta flight out of Atlanta's Hartsfield Airport on the 13th of Aug 2008 to attend a graduation of one of my granddaughters. I purposely used a carry on bag and a computer case that fit within the carry on guidelines that is set forth buy TSA and Delta. I fact it was smaller then the size recommended.
After I arrived at Atlanta Hartsfield I was amazed at the cordial attitude of the TSA employees while passing through the baggage check points.
I boarded a large passenger jet that had 6 rows of seats and flight attendants that were absolutely charming. And to beat all I had a two seats all to myself. Remember now I deliberately brought a small carry on bag the would fit easily in the overhead compartment and my attach� case with a computer notebook in it. The carry on also had a notebook in it. This computer is strictly used for my work on network websites. And being the freelance photographer that I am the computer in my attach� case is dedicated to that endeavor.

Let me tell you about "For our troops Collage"

Wildflecken Veterans Association

A friend of mine SFC Figueroa a Veteran of Desert Storm and IRAQ and who I had the honor of serving with embarked on a mission of great importance. Retired U.S. Army Reserve Sergeant First Class Miguel Figueroa along with acclaimed artist Marc Gagnon together for the first time in art history join together to raise awareness for the U.S. Military. �For Our Troops Collage". Marc and Miguel's goal is to raise money and awareness for an A+ rated military charity, known as the Fisher House. These houses are built for the Wounded Warrior's Families. Read the article below and learn about Fisher House and click here "For Our Troops Collage" and buy a T shirt. Your money will go towards the building of more houses in the Florida Area for the Families of our great Warriors.

This is a condensed version of an Article taken from the Fisher House Website.

A Fisher House� is "a home away from home" for families of patients receiving medical care at major military and VA medical centers. The homes are normally located within walking distance of the treatment facility or have transportation available. There are 38 Fisher Houses, with five more in construction.
Typically, the houses are 5,000+ to 16,000 square foot homes donated by the Fisher family and Fisher House� Foundation. Each house is designed to provide eight to 21 suites. All are professionally furnished and decorated in the tone and style of the local region. The houses can accommodate 16 to 42 family members. They feature a common kitchen, laundry facilities, spacious dining room and an inviting living room with library, and toys for children. A Fisher House� is a temporary residence and is not a treatment facility, hospice or counseling center. The program began in 1990, and has offered more than 2.5 million days of lodging to more than 110,000 families.

So come on people dig deep and get a "T" Shirt from "For Our Troops Collage"

God Bless You all.
Mac

Just Remembering the Good times At Wildflecken

Wildflecken Veterans Association

This post submitted by jimmy wayne walker -
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I remember being stationed with 498TH MP Detachment, 2nd AD, as part of Reforger (Brigade 75) on the Hill at Wildflecken. I remember thinking, boy, what a long walk, if you had no way up that hill! Many times while on patrol, I would follow the soldiers who were walking up the hill back to their barracks to make curfew. I am certain most of the soldiers hated seeing the MPs come into the bars and tell them that curfew was at midnight, and had to make that last beer go super fast, and hump it on foot up the hill. We didn't have alot of Courtesy patrols available for everyone. Once in awhile, we'd grab a couple of guys who were pretty intoxicated going up the hill and give them a ride to their units. There were some hard core MPs and then there were some that were human and tried to see both sides of the picture. Especially for those guys in the Engineers and in 215, 3rd ID, who were always in the field. I did meet alot of great people, and the beer and food was excellent. Loved the Kreuzberg Monastery especially. I really miss that part of my life, serving those three years on the Hill. What such great memories.

Some ideas on how to fight the rising cost of living

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Here are a few ideas I am doing now and plan to do in the very near future.

Most of us are either on Social Security, VA Compensation or both and or Retirement. And for the most part only received a 2.3 percent increase for COLA.

Q, How do I fight the rising cost of Gas?
A. I now keep a list of things we need to get like Coffee, Hardware etc. etc. on the fridge and when it gets to be quite a few the we drive to the store.

Q. How do we handle those everyday items?
A. We have networked with the neighbors and we try to tell everyone when we are going to the store and ask if anyone needs anything. So far this has resulted in my using my car maybe once a week.

Q. What about the rising cost of food.

Wildflecken Veterans Association

This post submitted by Richard Truluck
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I thought back in the seventies that I'd ever miss Wildflicken Training Area. After all these years I miss the view coming down off the Rock

WHERE TO BUY YOUR USA-GAS

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Gas rationing in the 80's worked even though we grumbled about it. It might even be good for us!

The Saudis are boycotting American goods.

Lets return the favor.

An interesting thought is to boycott their GAS.

Every time you fill up the car, you can avoid putting more money into the coffers of Saudi Arabia Just buy from gas companies that don't import their oil from the Saudis. Nothing is more frustrating than the feeling that every time I fill-up the tank, I am sending my money to people who are trying to kill me, my family, and my friends. I thought it might be interesting for you to know which oil companies are the best to buy gas from and which major companies import Middle Eastern oil.

Manteuffel-Kaserne / Daley-Barracks of Bad Kissingen, Germany

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Ladies, Gentlemen,

it comes with great pleasure to announce that after weeks of hard work historic Manteuffel-Kaserne / Daley-Barracks of Bad Kissingen, Germany finally found its own place of rememberence in the internet. If you have a chance, please visit Daley Barracksand find out about this no longer existing place that wrote at least some of the Cold War's history.

A big Thanks goes out to all of you who donated information and pictures to this project during the past weeks. Special Thanks to Norbert for the historic pictures of Manteuffel-Kaserne and Daley-Baracks, Erwin for the info and crests on all Bad Kissingen units, Bob S. for the extensive info he gathered on eaglehorse.org and Sam for the Bad Kissingen photos of 1962.

All "Insiders": Please review the site for possible errors or false information, everybody else, please spread the word and let everybody who might have a connection to Bad Kissingen know.

By the way, comments and critics are always welcome :-)

Best Regards,
Heinz Leitsch

Stimulus Payment Schedule for Tax Returns Received and Processed by April 15th

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Direct Deposit Payments

If the last two digits of your Social Security number are: Your economic stimulus payment deposit should be sent to your bank account by:
00 � 20 May 2
21 � 75 May 9
76 � 99 May 16

Paper Check

If the last two digits of your Social Security number are: Your check should be in the mail by:
00 � 09 May 16
10 � 18 May 23
19 � 25 May 30
26 � 38 June 6
39 � 51 June 13
52 � 63 June 20
64 � 75 June 27
76 � 87 July 4
88 � 99 July 11

Economic Stimulus Package [03] -------------- (6 Steps to take)

Wildflecken Veterans Association

ECONOMIC STIMULUS PACKAGE UPDATE 03: The Bush Administration recently signed new legislation - the Economic Stimulus Act of 2008 - into law that will give more than 130 million Americans as much as $152 billion to redistribute back into the economy. The payment amounts will equal the amount of one's tax liability on their 2007 tax return up to $600. That amount doubles for joint tax filers up to $1,200. For taxpayers with little or no tax liability, but $3,000 or more in qualifying income, they may be eligible to receive $300 (for single filers) or $600 (for joint filers). And, tax payers with children will receive an additional $300 for each child. Taxpayers who make more than $100,000 a year you will not receive a refund. However, not all Americans are eligible to receive the full $600 rebate. Six things you can do to qualify for the tax rebate are:

1.) File Your 2007 Income Tax Return - Not only may you have a tax refund coming your way, you many also qualify for a stimulus payment check.
2.) File Early - The IRS will send out checks through December, but why wait? Get it in early and you are likely to receive your stimulus payment earlier.
3.) E-file - Give yourself the convenience, speed and assurance that your income tax return is received.
4.) Zero Income, Zero Tax and Zero Payment.Make Sure You File - Certain qualifying individuals, including seniors, who meet this criteria and may not typically file an income tax return, will need to file, by filing a paper Form 1040A or Form 1040.
5.) Watch Out for Your Two IRS Notices - Most taxpayers will receive two notices from the IRS; one explaining the stimulus payment program and another confirming the recipients' eligibility, the amount and the approximate time table for the payment. Save the second notice to help in preparing your 2008 tax return next year.
6.) Vets Must File the Right Form - Veterans' benefits recipients must file Form 1040X to list non-taxable benefits, if they have already filed a 2007 return and received less than $3,000 in qualifying income; or for those who are normally not required to file an income tax return, they must report their benefits of $3,000 or more on Form 1040A or Form 1040, to establish their eligibility.

You never know what you will find when you start digging.

Wildflecken Veterans Association

When the construction on the new PX/Commissary began somewhere around May 19, 2005 at Grafenwoehr, and when digging for the foundations the construction workers uncovered this huge monster, a big cannon! As they excavated more they were able to uncover more of it and to their surprise they found a buried 8.8mm Howitzer How long it has been buried is a mystery I'm sure. But I am sure they will find out if they don't already know. Once they got it on a flat bed they were able to take it to a repair shop and maybe it would make a good static display. It looks in pretty good shape. I bet a lot of people are saying WOW! What a find! You can see the photos in a larger view in the Unit Photo Album under the Grafenwoehr category.

Legacy of Ashes

Wildflecken Veterans Association

If a society were to be judged by the way it treats its military veterans, then all of us who live in the greatest nation in the world and those who lead us should be condemned for our shameful neglect and callous disregard for those who have defended us. The following link shows a news broadcast that is so shameful it brings tears to my eyes. I have no idea how long it will run. Watch it now before it is pulled. Click KSDK TV What you will see is the down right neglect of thousand of cremains of our most valuable citizens. Veterans ashes in rusted and dented cans stacked on shelves in a warehouse like cans on a supermarket shelf. Although they were unclaimed by family members, they should have been claimed by our elected leaders. After all it was they who asked them to defend. They should have had the decency to order a fitting burial for these Veterans.

I just visited a grave site where 250 fallen Soldiers from the Civil War are interned. 248 Confederate and 2 Union Soldiers.

Windows Vista [02] -------------------- (Installing New Software)

Wildflecken Veterans Association

WINDOWS VISTA UPDATE 02: With Windows Vista, it you can encounter a whole array of issues every time you try to install a new piece of software, a new utility, a new driver or anything else for that matter. And those problems are usually caused by one of three things:
1.) A conflict between the new program and one you already have installed on your computer.
2.) A problem within the new application itself.
3.) An improper installation or problems with the installation.

MP training emphasizes war zone strategy to help improve Iraqi, Afghan By Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes. European edition, Thursday, February 7, 2008

Wildflecken Veterans Association

GRAFENW�HR, Germany - Soldiers from the 793rd Military Police Battalion have been training here to deploy to Iraq and Afghanistan later this year to serve as mentors to police forces in those countries. Click here to see photos related to this story. (Members will have to login to see full view)
Battalion Sgt. Maj. Michael Cieslewski, 42, of Naugatuck, Conn., said the training was a combined mission rehearsal exercise for Wiesbaden's 212th MP Company, which is bound for Iraq, and Hohenfels' 527th MP Company, which is headed to Afghanistan. The training wrapped up Wednesday.
First Lt. John Crumley, 36, of Sacramento, Calif., the battalion training officer, said both units will form police transition teams that will work with the Afghan National Police and Iraqi police.
During the exercise, the MPs interacted with German-speaking role players in a mock village that was assumed to be in Iraq when 212th soldiers visited it and in Afghanistan when 527th soldiers were there.

H.R. 4986: National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008 Is now LAW

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Sponsor: Rep. Ike Skelton [D-MO]
Cosponsors [as of 2008-01-30]
Rep. Duncan Hunter [R-CA]
Status: Introduced Jan 16, 2008

Passed House Jan 16, 2008
Voted on in Senate - Passed
Signed by President Jan 28, 2008

This bill has become law. [Last Updated: Jan 29, 2008]

You can read the entire text version of the bill at the following link:

H.R. 4986 National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008

Read more for more information regarding Disabled Veterans.

U.S. Vets: A Profile

Wildflecken Veterans Association

According to the U.S. Census,
America's 23.7 million veterans are broken down as follows:
Vietnam War Era 34%
Peacetime 26%
1990 to present 19%
WWII 19%
Korean War Era 13%

NOTE: Total more than 100% because some vets served in a second war.

By Race, Ethnic Background:
White 82.8%
Black 10%
Hispanic 5%
East Asian, Pacific 1.2%
American Indian 1%

7% of Vets are woman
17.4 Million vets voted in 2004 presidential election
74% of all vets voted vs. 63% of the general public.
25% of all veterans hold at least a bachelor's degree.
Military Wide education level in better than two years of college, which is higher than their civilian counter part.

Public Views on Veterans

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Various poll results released around Veterans Day revealed some interesting insights on public views of Veterans. Some 71% of Americans have a favorable opinion of Vets, according to a Rasmussen Reports survey. About 45% consider Veterans Day one of the Nation's most important holidays. More than one-third (36%) of Americans have close friends or relatives who died in the armed forces.
And analysis by the Pew Research Center for the People and the Press found that 66% of the public believes that press coverage of returning war vets is insufficient and 61% feel their personal experiences are under reported.

A blast from the past................

Wildflecken Veterans Association

There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think about some of the guys I met in Wildflecken especially those who have become brothers. Just a few short years ago I caught up with two of them Jim Tamsy and Bill Petty. After 40 years of not seeing each other it became an emotional reunion. Now some more good news. This is another guy who like the others I never forgot. On Saturday the morning of Dec 8th 2007 1020 hrs I turned on my computer to check my e-mail and popping out of about 30 e-mails jumps the name Joe Colarusso Subj: Blast from the past. It said "Is this the same Mac that used to pal around with Joe Colarusso? and he left his phone number and I called immediately..... He answered I said "Jose!" and with some excitement in his tone he said "Yeah!" and if you new Joe you would recognize the way he says "Yeah" I said "This is Mac" I think right about that time both of our eyes started to well up. I haven't seen Joe in 35 + years. We talked for an almost two hours but not enough time to catch up. I don't think there is any thing in the world that could describe the feelings you get when after 40 years you finally catch up to a fellow brother in arms who became your family. I mean you knew everything about each other. Mix that all in with your tour in Wildflecken and you have a part of your life that will stay with you forever. Welcome Home Joey! Welcome Home.

Suicide Hotline....

Wildflecken Veterans Association

I was depressed last night so I called Lifeline.

Got a call center in Pakistan.

I told them I was suicidal.

They got all excited and asked if I could drive a truck.

Dr. James Peake (Lt. Gen. Ret.) should NOT be confirmed as the new VA Secretary.

Wildflecken Veterans Association

The following article was taken from the VA Watch Dog site.
I'm going to make this short and sweet.

Dr. James Peake (Lt. Gen. Ret.) should NOT be confirmed as the new VA Secretary.
Just like the candied-apples that get handed out at Halloween, we have a pretty, sweet exterior...but, inside we have a rotten apple. Dr. Peake is being sold to the American people as a doctor and decorated military veteran. While he is both, these do not qualify him to be VA Secretary. Listed below are six reasons Dr. Peake should NOT be confirmed.I'm going to make this short and sweet.

Social Security Myths] ---------------------------- (Insolvency)

Wildflecken Veterans Association

SOCIAL SECURITY MYTHS: Following are five myths about the causes and impact of Social Security's anticipated Insolvency:
1. Social Security isn't a big-deal problem because, absent any change, the system will be able to pay 75% of promised benefits in 2041. Even those reduced benefits would be larger, in real terms, than what current retirees receive: Those numbers are correct; the implication isn't. Social Security represents the only source of income for one-third of elderly households and more than half the income for another third. No one wants to see those benefits suddenly slashed by a quarter

Veteran Charities Review ------------ (VVA Solicitation)

Wildflecken Veterans Association

VETERAN CHARITIES REVIEW UPDATE 02: The following was reported by Tom Waskovich, former Executive Director of the Special Operations Association: "The last week I have received calls from the VVA soliciting money for homeless veterans and also a Navy affiliate wanting money to send packages to the troops.

TV Analog to Digital Conversion ---------- (Did you know?)

Wildflecken Veterans Association

TV ANALOG TO DIGITAL CONVERSION: The US Department of Commerce has announced that on 17 FEB 09 all television broadcast in the United States will convert from analog to digital (i.e. DTV) format. Although the conversion will not take effect until 2009, the conversion boxes should be available JAN 08. Following are some consumer questions with answers regarding the conversion and the Converter Coupon Program:

Dear John Letters

Wildflecken Veterans Association

All of us have know someone who has received a Dear John letter. They are just like IED's. You don't know when they are coming and how much damage they will cause. We have seen the devastation it causes to the Soldier who receives it. It doesn't even have to be a Dear John letter but a letter about how the spouse can't pay the rent or bill collectors knocking at the front door.

COLA 2008 UPDATE a big 2.3%

Wildflecken Veterans Association

COLA 2008 UPDATE 08: The Department of Labor announced that next year's COLA (Cost of Living Adjustment) be 2.3%. The increase will apply to military retirees and their survivors, as well as Social Security annuities and certain other federal payments. Civilian federal retirees will receive a COLA of 2.0%. This is the lowest increase since 2004. The cost of living increase was 2.7 % in 2004, 4.1% in 2005 and 3.3% in 2006. COLAs are set by comparing the change in the consumer price index for wage earners and clerical workers from the third quarter of one year to the third quarter of the next year. The COLA is lower this year than last due to a drop in energy costs in August and September. Counterbalancing the COLA for Medicare beneficiaries will be a rise in Medicare premiums of $2.50, to $96.40 a month. The COLA is effective on 1 DEC 07 and will appear in your JAN checks.

FTC debunks Cell-phone Scare Message

Wildflecken Veterans Association

CELL-PHONE SCARE MESSAGE: The FTC has again stated that despite the claims made in e-mails circulating on the Internet, consumers should not be concerned that their cell phone numbers will be released to telemarketers in the near future, and that it is not necessary to register cell phone numbers on the National Do Not Call Registry to be protected from most telemarketing calls to cell phones. Federal Communications Commission regulations prohibit telemarketers from using automated dialers to call cell phone numbers. No cell phone directory is imminent. Because automated dialers are standard in the industry, most telemarketers would be barred from calling consumers on their cell phones without their consent even if a directory were issued. For more info on the subject refer to the FTC Website.

SALUTING THE FLAG:

Wildflecken Veterans Association

The Senate has passed legislation to ensure that veterans and service members can salute the flag when not in uniform. The bill S.1877, sponsored by Sen. James Inhofe [R-OK] would address the ambiguity of current law, which states that veterans and service members not in uniform should place their hand over their hearts, without specifying whether they can or should salute the flag. Inhofe said,

FLY THE FLAG ON 911

Wildflecken Veterans Association

On Tuesday, September 11th, 2007, the sixth anniversary of 9/11 an American flag should be displayed outside every home, apartment, office, and store in the United States . Every individual should make it their duty to display an American flag on this anniversary of our country's worst tragedy. We do this in honor of those who lost their lives on 9/11, their families, friends and loved ones who continue to endure the pain, and those who today are fighting at home and abroad to preserve our freedoms and way of life.

In the days, weeks and months following 9/11, our country was bathed in American flags as citizens mourned the incredible losses and stood shoulder-to-shoulder against terrorism. Sadly, those flags have all but disappeared. Our patriotism pulled us through some tough times and it shouldn't take another attack to galvanize us in solidarity. Our American flag is the fabric of our country and together we can prevail over terrorism of all kinds.

Remember, all of us walked the wall one way or another to protect the West and America from the communist scurge. Unfold those flags and let them fly.

Let see what names have a ring to them.

Wildflecken Veterans Association

On the DEMOCRATE side:
President Hillory Clinton.... Yikes! Gives me the chivers.
President Barack Hussein Obama..... There damn sure aint no ring there.
President Al Gore...... WHO! OH! NO! Can't be. How did he get in this?
President John Edwards..... Has a ring but there is a crack in it.
President Bill Richardson.... Has a ring, seems like a stand up guy.
President Wesley Clark.... Generals just don't make good Presidents.
President Joe Biden.... That had a ring, now it's just a thud.
President Dennis Kucinich...... you can hit that bell all day long and it won't ring.
President Mike Gravel.... Who?
President Chris Dodd.... No clue what a ring is.

On the REPUBLICANS side:
President Mitt Romney..... Now that is a ring.
President Rudy Giuliani.... Another good ring,but with a lot of baggage
President Fred Thompson....This had a good ring. But you can't hear it.
President John McCain.... Good ring, but fading.
President Sam Brownback.....No ring at all.
President Ron Paul.....Maybe Pope Ron Paul.
President Mike Huckabee....I heart Huckabee's Maybe but I don't think so. VP, maybe.
President Tom Tancredo..... I like this guy. Has a different ring.
President Newt Gingrich..... Maybe in 2012 Big ring.
President Duncan Hunter.....No ring at all.Starting hear something.

The above article is not and was never intended to reflect a Republican partisan opinion of this site. It was meant to be humorous and to possibly spark some discussion. This site has always tried to be a non partisan site. However, it wouldn't take a rocket scientist to see which side of the United States I favor.

Tim Robbins (Jane Fonda's Replacement)

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Tim Robbins makes me want to loose my lunch. I watched the Bill O'Rielly show the other day. Mr. O'Rielly did a piece on Tim (jihadist) Robbins and repeated some comments Mr. Jihadist Robbins made. You can read the transcripts here Tim (Jihadist) Robbins the new replacement for Jane Fonda. Read this I would love to see your comments about this guy. Remember....He has a right to say what he wants. But do we have a right not to see his movies?

Cold War Medal back on the table

Wildflecken Veterans Association

The House approved the 2008 Defense Authorization bill (H.R. 1585) May 17th. One of it's components (section 556) would create a Cold War Victory Medal to recognize U.S. Veterans who served honorably between Sept. 2nd 1945, and Dec. 26th 1991. A similar proposal (S. 1097) is pending in the Senate. The Pentagon is opposed (of course) because of the cost, which it estimates at $250 Miliion. Supporters say it would be closer to $11 Million because only 5% of the 24 million eligible vets would apply. The Congressional Budget Office projected 3 million vets would seek the medal at a cost of $32 million. Rep. Robert Andrews (D-N.J.), who sponsored the House measure said the medal should be approved, regardless of cost: "The United States would be a very different place today if the Soviet Union was still a viable, active military force."

Editors Note: Would apply? Shouldn't this Medal be issued to all eligible Veterans without having to apply?

AFRC SHADES OF GREEN Armed Forces Recreation Center Resort on Disney World in Lake Buena Vista, Florida

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Shades of Green, the Armed Forces Recreation Center Resort on Disney World in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, recently announced the commencement of its Salute to Veterans Program. This program expands current eligibility to allow any honorably discharged veteran the opportunity to stay at Shades of Green Resort during the months of September 2007 and January 2008. Under the guidelines of the special program, you do NOT need to be a military retiree but you will need a valid DD214 indicating Honorable Discharge. Shades of Green, Surrounded by one of the best golf courses in Florida, completed a full renovation and expansion in 2005. For more information about the resort refer to the Shades of Green website or call (407) 827- 8387.

Awards Replacement -- Where to Write

Wildflecken Veterans Association

AWARDS REPLACEMENT: Retirees who have lost medals or decorations, or never received ones they earned, may request them at any time. The government will generally replace lost or destroyed decorations for service or valor at no cost. There may be a charge for campaign ribbons and badges. At the Strelz you can view decorations and ribbons, Army right breast pocket ribbons for citations and commendations, specialty and staff badges for each service, U S Merchant Marine ribbons, plus State and Other Foreign Decorations. Former service members and the survivors of deceased veterans can obtain replacement medals or make appeals by writing to their respective service below.

James McEachin, Hero and Actor a must read.

Wildflecken Veterans Association

I was asked by Lawrence Ayers a representitive of a true National Icon and Korean War Hero, Mr. James McEachin.(http://www.jamesmceachin.com ) I know this man from TV and Movies. I had no idea of his background until Mr Ayers has asked me to link James McEachin's courages history on our website to also include Mr. McEachin's new film site http://www.oldglorythemovie.com )a tribute to veterans. Old Glory is receiving rave reviews from veterans all over the world. Mr Ayrers has included some additional information on Mr. McEachin below for you to review. The information includes his valor and Silver Star for his service in the Korean War, and his acting and writing career. Mr. McEachin travels the country visiting veteran hospitals and giving moving speech's from his award winning CD. He will be a guest speaker at the GI Film Festival this May in Washington DC. ( http://www.gifilmfestival.com )Mr. McEachin is available to speak at military functions and events this coming year. I have included Mr. McEachin's contact information at the end of this e-mail.

Thank you for taking time to review this information!

Lawrence Ayers

How to make sure you are recieving your e-mail

Wildflecken Veterans Association

HOW TO MAKE SURE YOU GET YOUR EMAIL: Because of spammers, many inboxes. Unfortunately, in the ever-escalating war between spammers and ISPs/mail services, many are accidentally caught in their cross-fire. The result is that ISPs or mail services often filter out email that you specifically ask to receive, such as newsletters. After you subscribe/join, you should take the following �whitelisting� steps to ensure that you actually will receive it.
- "Whitelist" the Bulletin�s Email addees in the Email Program on Your Computer
- "Whitelist" the Bulletin�s Email addees in the Spam Filter Software on Your Computer

- "Whitelist" the Bulletin�s Email addees at your ISP (Earthlink, Comcast, etc.) or Mail Service (Hotmail, Yahoo mail, etc.)

Thunderbirds 2007 Show Schedule ------- (Dates & Locations)

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Here is something to take the grandkids to.

THUNDERBIRDS 2007 SHOW SCHEDULE: The U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, "Thunderbirds," has announced its 2007 air show schedule featuring 68 shows in 21 states and nine European countries. The 2007 schedule is as follows:

- MAR: 24 & 25 -- Luke Air Force Base AZ; 31 -- Point Mugu Naval Base Ventura County CA

- APR: 1 -- Point Mugu Naval Base Ventura County CA; 14 & 15 -- Eglin AFB FL. ; 21 & 22 -- Barksdale AFB LA; 28 and 29 -- Langley AFB VA

- MAY: 5 & 6 -- Fort Lauderdale , FL; 12 & 13 -- McGuire AFB, NJ; 19 & 20 -- Andrews AFB, MD; 26 & 27 -- Wantagh ( Jones Beach ), NY

- JUN: 2 & 3 -- Davenport IA; 9 & 10 -- Sacramento CA; 16 & 17 - Pittsburgh; 23 & 24 -- Galway , Ireland; 26 -- Krzesiny Air Base , Poland; 28 -- Mihail Kogalniceanu , Romania; 30 -- Ankara , Turkey

- JUL: 1 -- Graf Ignatievo , Bulgaria; 4 -- Aviano AB , Italy; 7 & 8 -- Evreux Field , France; 14 & 15 - Royal Air Force Fairford , Eng; 25 -- Cheyenne WY; 28 & 29 -- Dayton OH

- AUG: 11 & 12 -- Niagara Falls , NY; 15 -- Atlantic City , NJ; 18 & 19 - Chicago; 25 & 26 -- Otis Air National Guard Base, MA

- SEP: 1 to 3 - Cleveland; 8 -- Minot AFB ND; 15 -- Hickam AFB HI; 22 & 23 -- El Paso TX; 29 & 30 -- Columbus OH

- OCT: 6 & 7 -- Pope AFB NC; 13 & 14 -- Miramar Marine Corps Air Station CA; 20 & 21 -- Moody AFB Ga.; 27 & 28 -- New Orleans

- NOV: 3 & 4 -- Cape Canaveral FL; 10 & 11 -- Nellis AFB NV

The Thunderbirds will also commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Air Force throughout their 2007 season. "We are representing six decades of air dominance this year," Colonel Robbins said. "The Air Force and Thunderbirds of today uphold the pride and professionalism that millions of Airmen have displayed for 60 years."

E-MAIL PETITIONS

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Has anyone ever forwarded you an e-mail that has a petition attached to it? Well, these are called e-petitions and they usually deal with something that may be going wrong in the world. For instance, a few of the more recent ones have been for lowering gas prices and for our troops.

MEDICARE CUT BACKS

Wildflecken Veterans Association

As things stand, unless Congress takes action before then end of the 109th session, users of Medicare and Tricare will found it much more difficult in 2007 to find a physician that will treat them. Effective 1 JAN 07 the Medicare sustainable growth rate (SGR) formula will cut payments to physicians and health care professionals by 5.1% which will cause many providers to drop their participation in the program.

OVERSEAS TROOP GIFT GIVING

Wildflecken Veterans Association

If you would like to share a holiday greeting or send a goodie package to a loved one or �any soldier� overseas, here are a few of the many places that could help:

DoD Announces Installation Realignment in Germany

Wildflecken Veterans Association

The Department of Defense announced today that the United States will cease operations at several U.S. Army Europe communications, training, support, and housing sites in Germany and return them to the host nation in fiscal 2007.
In light of today's security environment and the U.S. European Command's force structure realignment and transformation, it was determined that the capabilities provided by these installations are no longer required. Facilities affected by this decision are:
- Digital European Backbone sites: Melibokus, Koenigstuhl, Stocksberg, Bonstetten, Friolzheim, Hohenstadt, Heidenheim
- Brandhof Radio Relay Site and Reinwarzhofen Radio Relay Facility, Ansback area
- Hohe Warte Local Training Area, Giessen area
- Amberg Family Housing and Pond Barracks, Vilseck area
- Blink Family Housing, Bremerhaven area
- Darby Kaserne, Nuernberg
- Edingen Radio Receiver, Heidelberg area
- Gruenstadt Communications Station, Mannheim area
- Osterfelderstrasse Housing Area (partial return of the Unaccompanied Officer Quarters), Garmisch
As with all stationing actions, the United States coordinated with host nation officials before making this announcement.
For additional information regarding this announcement, please contact U.S. Army Europe public affairs at +(49)-6221-578934.

Verify Military Service

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Web-based Third Party Request for verification of Military Service is now available.
Does your potential employer or a financial institution need to verify your military service?
Web-based Third Party Request is now available for Army Reserve Soldiers and some retirees to establish authorization for employers and financial institutions to login, view, and print designated portions of their military personnel files in order to confirm military service.

Soldiers will be guided through a series of steps to establish a Personal Identification Numbers (PIN) and to select the documents and data that can be viewed by a third party requester. Soldiers will need to provide their PIN and AKO email address to the employer or financial institution seeking the information.

Members of the Army Reserve, including but not limited to, Individual Ready Reserve, Individual Mobilization Augmentee, Troop Program Unit, and Active Guard Reserve Soldiers, and some Army retirees must use their Army Knowledge Online login information to access Third Party Request through the U.S. Army Human Resources Command Website. To do this Login Here:

History of Veterans Day

Wildflecken Veterans Association

VETERANS DAY: World War I - known at the time as "The Great War" - officially ended when the Treaty of Versailles was signed on 28 JUN 19 , in the Palace of Versailles outside the town of Versailles , France. However, fighting ceased seven months earlier when an armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, between the Allied nations and Germany went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. For that reason, 11 NOV 18, is generally regarded as the end of "the war to end all wars." In November 1919, President Wilson proclaimed 11 NOV as the first commemoration of Armistice Day.

VETERANS DAY Wear your Medals

Wildflecken Veterans Association

The Honorable R. James Nicholson, Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and leaders of major veterans organizations on 18 OCT called on America's veterans to help kindle a new spark of patriotism on Veterans Day 11 NOV by wearing the medals they earned during military service.

WOW! Where does the time go.

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Air Force's Stealth Fighter Fleet Heads Toward Retirement

By Staff Sgt. Matthew Bates, USAF
Special to American Forces Press Service
HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M., Oct. 31, 2006 � After 25 years of storied service, the F-117 Nighthawk, the Air Force's first stealth fighter, is about to retire.

Air Force Capt. Christina Szasz prepares an F-117 Nighthawk for takeoff at Holloman Air Force Base, N.M., Oct. 27. The jet was part of a 25-ship formation celebrating the Nighthawk's 25th anniversary and 250,000th flying hour. The Air Force's F-117 fleet is eing retired. Photo by Senior Airman Brian Ferguson, USAF

The technology that once made it unique has now caught up to it, and newer fighter aircraft are joining the

fleet. Still, the Nighthawk was the first of its kind, a fact anyone who has pent time around the aircraft is quick to point out. Many of these people gathered here Oct. 29 to commemorate 25 years of Nighthawk istory at the Silver Stealth ceremony. Members of the F-117 community, past and present, were on hand to pay homage to the aircraft's illustrious history, a history that contains as many secrets as it does legends.

Part of the Air Force's arsenal since 1981, the Nighthawk was the stuff of science fiction. It could fly across enemy skies and through the world's most advanced radar systems without being detected. This capability allowed the ircraft to perform reconnaissance missions and bomb critical targets, all without the enemy knowing who or what had hit them.

Historical Significance ( A Must Read )

Wildflecken Veterans Association

I get many e-mails everyday. Most are jokes, some is junk, but there are a few that make an impact. Here is one that I hope you will pass along to others. It's basic History 101.

Sixty-three years ago, Nazi Germany had overrun almost all of Europe and hammered England to the verge of bankruptcy and defeat, and had sunk more than four hundred British ships in their convoys between England and America for food and war materials.

Visit Camp Wildflecken

Wildflecken Veterans Association

It�s time to come back! Since so many people asked for it � here it is: Border Tours takes you back to the beautiful Rhoen-area for a long or short visit. They offer full service: Help to find a hotel, pick up at airport, transportation, assistance in all matters like check in at hotel and everything and � most important � arrange a visit of the now German Army Installation of Wildflecken with the German military. But it�s not only Wildflecken: Border Tours also offers tours to historic cities like Fulda, Wuerzburg, Bad Kissingen and Bad Brueckenau as well as tours along the former border that divided Germany into East and West for several centuries. An English speaking guide will be with you all the time. It's time to come back.

For more information contact Heinz Leitsch

An Attorney

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Read this and make a copy for your files in case you need to refer to it someday. Maybe we should all take some of his advice!
A corporate attorney sent the following out to the employees in his company.

Cold War Medal back on radar

Wildflecken Veterans Association

As reported in the Army Times: Reps. Robert Andrews, D-NJ and Jo Ann Davis, R-Va., are trying to get support for the Cold War Medal Act, which would require a medal to be created and distributed to those who served honorably in the military from Sept. 2, 1945 to Dec. 26, 1991. "The Cold War was not just an ideological struggle: it was a large scale military campaign to prevent a third world war through deterrence and military deployments," the two lawmakers said in a letter to colleagues.

What's next: The bill, HR 2568, has only 12 sponsors, but it isn't the bill that Andrews and Davis are worried about. A provision ordering the Cold War Medal in included in the much larger 2007 defense authorization bill passed by the House. The two lawmakers are trying to garner a big enough show of support for the idea so that the proposal makes it to the final version of that larger bill. Last year, at a similar decision point, the Cold War Medal language was dropped from the final bill because of Pentagon objections. It will take support from more than 12 House members to change that.

Wildflecken Veterans Reunion

Wildflecken Veterans Association

All Members and potential Members.

A planned Wildflecken Veterans Reunion is in the works. Right now the idea is to have it in the spring of 2007 in Nashville, Tennessee. So far we have received a big YES from a large number of members. We are still waiting to hear from many more with their interest. We are currently working on Hotel accommodations, meals, tours of Nashville and Guest Speakers. We hope to have a band for some fun and dancing. Of course all spouses, and/or guest are welcomed.
Times and Dates to be announced. Telephone numbers will be provided for travel information and questions in general. We will keep everyone informed as to any changes. Hope to see as many of you as possible. In the mean time if you have any questions you can contact me
Don McLaughlin or
Sam Compton.

Drinking Beer!

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Pay day was the best day of the MONTH. For most of you it was twice a Month. Back in 61 I was paid 117.00 bucks a Month in cash. Before I could clear the pay line, First Shirt would make us donate a buck to every charity that was represented on the pay line. And lastly there was the guy you borrowed money from. 5 bucks for 7 and half. After you settled with him you were lucky to walk out with 50 bucks in your pocket. But being the soldier I was I managed to adapt. Lets go down town! Drink some flip tops. The first four days of the month I and most of everyone else lived like millionaires. Best food, woman and beer. By the end of the month we were into the loan shark for 30 bucks or so and eating C-Rats for snacks. (MRE's to you young troops) Unless you knew the cook (grin) However, there was one place we all managed to go. The Monastery. You remember the Monastery... Where the Monks made the beer that most of Germany only seen during Fasching and Oktoberfest. The Monastery made it all year around. It was Wildfleckens best kept secret. Just recently I was e-mailed by a fellow WVA Member (John) asking me if I could remember the name of the place. I always thought it was the Monastery. The only thing I remember is getting up there. I could never remember how I got down. Anyway, John e-mails me back and said he found the name and it was staring him right in the face all the time. He had a beer stein on his desk with the name of the Monastery "Klosterbrauerei Kreuzberg/Rhon seit 1731". He even found the Monastery Website for it. Check it out. Some very good photos that I am sure will bring back some great hangovers... I mean memories. John has also provided a link for a webcam of Wildflecken. Pretty neat stuff.

Stolen VA Laptop Turned in to FBI

Wildflecken Veterans Association

By Steven Donald Smith American Forces Press Service.

WASHINGTON, June 29, 2006 � The stolen Department of Veterans Affairs laptop computer and hard drive containing the personal information of more than 26 million veterans were turned in to the FBI yesterday, the Veterans Affairs secretary said before Congress today.
Reports indicate that the FBI has made a preliminary determination that data contained on the computer and hard drive has not been accessed.

There have been no reports of identity theft or other criminal activity related to the stolen computer, R. James Nicholson told the House Veterans Affairs Committee. He added that the VA would still honor its promise of free credit monitoring for a year.

An unnamed individual turned over the laptop and hard drive to FBI officials in Baltimore. No persons are in custody at this time, officials said.

The laptop and hard drive were stolen from the Montgomery County, Md., home of a VA employee on May 3. Government officials do not believe the data on the laptop was the target of the burglary, and consider the break-in a random theft.

"This has brought to the light of day some real deficiencies in the manner we handled personal data," Nicholson said. "If there's a redeeming part of this, I think we can turn this around."

Coalition Forces Kill Top Terrorist in Iraq

Wildflecken Veterans Association

BAGHDAD, June 8, 2006 � Jordanian terrorist leader Abu Musab al-Zarqawi died in an air strike north of Baghdad yesterday evening, U.S. officials have confirmed. Army Gen. George W. Casey Jr., commander of Multinational Force Iraq, announced Zarqawi's death during a press conference with Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki and U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Zalmay Khalilzad today.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, coalition forces killed al Qaeda terrorist leader Abu Musab al-Zarqawi and one of his key lieutenants, spiritual advisor Sheik Abd-Al-Rahman, yesterday, June 7, at 6:15 p.m. in an air strike against an identified, isolated safe house," Casey said.
Tips and intelligence led forces to Zarqawi and some of his associates who were conducting a meeting approximately eight kilometers north of Baqubah when the air strike was launched, Casey said.
"Iraqi police were first on the scene after the air strike, and elements of Multinational Division North arrived shortly thereafter. Coalition Forces were able to identify Zarqawi by fingerprint verification, facial recognition and known scars," he said.
Zarqawi and al Qaeda in Iraq have conducted terrorist activities against the Iraqi people for years in attempts to undermine the Iraqi national government and coalition efforts to rebuild and stabilize Iraq, U.S. officials in Iraq said. He is known to be responsible for the deaths of thousands of Iraqis.
"Zarqawi's death is a significant blow to al Qaeda and another step toward defeating terrorism in Iraq," U.S. officials said in a statement.
"Although the designated leader of al Qaeda in Iraq is now dead, the terrorist organization still poses a threat as its members will continue to try to terrorize the Iraqi people and destabilize their government as it moves toward stability and prosperity," Casey said. "Iraqi forces, supported by the coalition, will continue to hunt terrorists that threaten the Iraqi people until terrorism is eradicated in Iraq."

Army streamlines service uniforms to one blue Army Service Uniform

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Decision reflects simplicity, utility, quality and tradition
Army service uniforms will be streamlined to one blue Army Service Uniform, the Army announced today.
"World-class Soldiers deserve a simplified, quality uniform. The blue Army Service Uniform is a traditional uniform that is consistent with the Army's most honored traditions," said Sgt. Maj. Of the Army Kenneth O. Preston.
"We have all of these variations of uniforms - green, blue and white," said Army Chief of Staff Gen. Peter J. Schoomaker. "It makes sense for us to go to one traditional uniform that is really sharp and high quality and which Soldiers will be very proud to wear. And that's what we've done by adopting this blue Army Service Uniform that reflects simplicity, quality, utility and tradition."
Many Soldiers already own an Army blue uniform (now to be called the Army Service Uniform) and may continue to wear it. Improvements will be made to the fabric and fit. Reduction of the number of uniforms will reduce the burden on Soldiers for purchases and alteration cost.

TELEPHONE DIALING TIP

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Tired of spending an inordinate amount of time having to listen to a machine that tells you how to reach a human to answer or deal with your problem or question. A shortcut to this can be found at the Gethuman Database. Before calling those large companies check it out . Here you will find either the telephone number, the button number to punch, or the word to say to reach a human. The companies are listed by genre. A purely alphabetical list is also available. Be sure to leave feedback so Gethuman can continue to improve this time and money saving service.

Veterans Data stolen

Wildflecken Veterans Association

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has recently learned that an employee, a data analyst, took home electronic data from the VA, which he was not authorized to do. This behavior was in violation of our policies. This data contained identifying information including names, social security numbers, and dates of birth for up to 26.5 million veterans and some spouses, as well as some disability ratings. Importantly, the affected data did not include any of VA's electronic health records nor any financial information. The employee's home was burglarized and this data was stolen. The employee has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of an investigation.

COLD WAR MEDAL

Wildflecken Veterans Association

COLD WAR MEDAL: Congress approved a Cold War Medal in its 2002 National Defense Authorization Bill (NDAA) but left final authorization up to Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld. DoD said in late January 2002 that the medal would not be authorized. The House version of last year's fiscal 2006 NDAA contained provisions for a Cold War medal, but a joint conference committee struck it out. This year the idea has resurfaced. Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-NY) and Rep. Robert Andrews (D-NJ) have introduced S.1361 and H.R.2568 respectively that would direct the Defense Department to issue such a medal. Service members and DoD civilians who served honorably at any time between Sept. 2, 1945, through Dec. 26, 1991 would be eligible. The chairman of the Cold War Veterans Association estimated that 20 million Americans served during the Cold War. According to the association, 357 U.S. soldiers lost their lives in action during the Cold War. Others were injured, or kept as prisoners of war. The numbers may pale in comparison to other wars, yet this was a time of highly tense and very secretive missions, when soldiers were told to hold their fire, but be ready to return fire if ordered. The proposed legislation would face stiff opposition from DoD because of funding concerns and because a Cold War medal could reduce the prestige accorded other medals awarded during the same era. As a substitute, Public Law 105-85 authorized a Cold War Recognition Certificate for Cold War participants.

Immigration (Illegal that is)

Wildflecken Veterans Association

This post submitted by Mac -
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Why is it that protest that question US Law always takes place on May 1st? May 1st is a Communist holiday. Coincidence? I think not. Think about it. Remember back in the sixties when all troops were restricted to post. It was a day for Communist to go toe to toe with Anti Communist groups and rally against each other. May 1st is and always will be a Communist Holiday. I guess Stalinist, Maoist and Marxism-Leninism are still rearing their ugly heads. What say you?

Understand What a Flag Draped Coffin Really Means!

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Do you know that at military funerals, the 21-gun salute stands for the sum of the numbers in the year 1776?

Have you ever noticed the honor guard pays meticulous attention to correctly folding the United States of America Flag 13 times? You probably thought it was to symbolize the original 13 colonies, but we learn something new every day!

The 1st fold of the flag is a symbol of life.

The 2nd fold is a symbol of the belief in eternal life.

The 3rd fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veterans departing the ranks who gave a portion of their lives for the defense of the country to attain peace throughout the world.

The 4th fold represents the weaker nature, for as American citizens trusting in God, it is to Him we turn in times of peace as well as in time of war for His divine guidance.

The 5th fold is a tribute to the country, for in the words of Stephen Decatur, "Our Country, in dealing with other countries, may she always be right; but it is still our country, right or wrong.

The 6th fold is for where people's hearts lie. It is with their heart that They pledge allegiance to the flag of the United! States Of America, and the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for all.

The 7th fold is a tribute to its Armed Forces, for it is through the Armed Forces that they protect their country and their flag against all her enemies, whether they be found within or without the boundaries of their republic.

The 8th fold is a tribute to the one who entered into the valley of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day.

The 9th fold is a tribute to womanhood, and Mothers. For it has been through their faith, their love, loyalty and devotion that the character of the men and women who have made this country great has been molded.

The 10th fold is a tribute to the father, for he, too, has given his sons and daughters for the defense of their country since they were first born.

The 11th fold represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon and glorifies in the Hebrews eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

The 12th fold represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in the Christians eyes, God the Father, the Son and Holy Spirit.

The 13th fold, or when the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost reminding them of their nations motto, "In God We Trust."

Teddy Rosevelt

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Theodore Roosevelt's ideas on Immigrants and being an AMERICAN in 1907.

"In the first place, we should insist that if the immigrant who comes here in good faith becomes an American and assimilates himself to us, he shall be treated on an exact equality with everyone else, for it is an outrage to discriminate against any such man because of creed, or birthplace, or origin. But this is predicated upon the person's becoming in every facet an American, and nothing but an American...There can be no divided allegiance here. Any man who says he is an American, but something else also, isn't an American at all. We have room for but one flag, the American flag... We have room for but one language here, and that is the English language... and we have room for but one sole loyalty and that is a loyalty to the American people."

Theodore Roosevelt 1907

Shipping a Care Package to US Troops has just become easier.

Wildflecken Veterans Association

This post submitted by Mac - -
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Are you considering sending a care package to US Troops? Can't find that box to ship it in? Well guess what? The USPS has the answer. Now you can obtain from the USPS a free kit with all the tape, boxes and envelopes you will need to mail care packages to soldiers. just call (800) 610-8734 and request a "Military Kit." So..What are you waiting for?

Re-Visiting Wildflecken

Wildflecken Veterans Association

This post submitted by Thomas Bruce Feeney - -
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I arrived at the replacement station in Frankfurt on Oct. 30 1972 along with 40-50 other GI�s. We were put up for the night there and were allowed to go out on the town for beer and brats. The next day we all assembled into a large room where our assignments were handed out. They assigned us out in groups of 3-5 with one guy being the leader of the group. I waited and waited for my name to be called. Finally, the last one, the sergeant said �Feeney!, You�re going to Wildflecken!� Then he kinda smiled at me like he knew something that I didn�t know. I had no idea what or where Wildflecken was but I was going there by myself. I was assigned to A.Co. 54th Engr. Bn. I had to change trains twice on the way there. I was a little unsure of myself and kept bugging the train conductor �How much further?� I arrived at the Widflecken train station at about 10:30pm Oct. 31st,1972. Halloween. Payday Night. Wildflecken. It was cold and very foggy. Remember the fog? When I walked out of the station there was a big statue of a woodsman with his axe drawn back ready to swing. It scared the crap out of me. Looking down towards town I could see lights thru the fog and I heard someone screaming in the distance. Where the hell am I? After a few minutes an Army jeep pulled up and a soldier climbed out. This was my ride. The guy was Sp4 Eddie Wheeler, my first contact. Eddie was a good friend and a great guy. I understand that he has since gotten his eyes fixed, one of them was slightly crooked. My first night in Wildflecken, hardly anyone talked to me, but the second night�.. whew! All the guys in my platoon came around to say hi and got me completely wasted. It was the beginning of a great lovehate relationship. I wrote to my young wife back home to tell her all about it. She accused me of making the whole thing up! �Don�t you want me to come?� She cried. �I can�t find it on any map.� Anyway, she eventually came over and life went on.

Like all of you who were there know, Wildflecken was an amazing place (in retrospect) Most of the time I absolutely hated it and couldn�t wait to leave. I kept my short-timers calender for a long time. Short!, 99 days! I remember nearly freezing to death on several occasions, Guard duty at the ammo dump. Standing in line at the mess hall, Reporting for pay at the Rec Center on payday, Endless days in the MotorPool, Bridging exercises. Life in the barracks, Shamming, Massive stereo systems, Playing spades, etc., etc.

It was also a great time and I made life long friends there. Wildflecken left a n impression on me and helped to form my life. I look back on it with much fondness now.

Friends; Dennis Hocomb, David Overstreet, David Santiago, Greg Zawatski, John koole, Mark Zits, Ricky Roher, so many others that I can�t remember the names of. I wish there was a year book or something like that. The company commander at that time was Cpt. George A. Woodbury.

Why Cold War medal was Rejected

Wildflecken Veterans Association

I have always been an advocate of the Cold War Medal to be issued to Veterans that stood the watch from 1945 to 1991. But deep in the recesses of my mind I knew this wouldn't happen any time soon. If you have been keeping up with Federal Budget Cuts and spending, including those benefits regarding VA Health care to veterans you would see the writing on the wall as I do. "NO MONEY" The following is an excerpt from the VFW Magazine.

A provision in the 2006 Defense authorization bill that would have created a Cold War Victory Medal was dropped, before the bill was signed into law. The House had approved the measure, but in negotiations with the Senate the medal was rejected because of opposition from the Pentagon. VFW's Director of national Security and Foreign Affairs Michael Wyson says the pentagon opposed it for two reasons: the Cost is prohibitive, and the Defense Department issued a certificate to recognize Cold War vets in 2001. The pentagon estimates that between 14 and 16 million veterans would be eligible for the medal and it would cost taxpayers between $27 to $35 for each medal and certificate awarded. The total cost for the award could be between $378 Million and $528 Million dollars. Wyson added that the Pentagon further claims that a variety of individual unit and service awards already available are sufficient and recognizes military and civilian federal service during the Cold War. The pentagon further claims that a variety of individual unit and service awards already available are sufficient recognition for Cold War service. VFW delegates approved Res 471 calling for a Cold War foreign service medal in 2003. The resolution still stands.
What might work is if every Veteran offered to purchase their Medals, maybe the Pentegon would cave. Think about it.

VA Panel Hearing Change 01 Minor improvement

Wildflecken Veterans Association

House Veterans Affairs Committee Chairman Steve Buyer (R-IN), who recently unleashed a torrent of criticism from veteran service organizations (VSOs), has reversed his original decision and extended from 3 minutes to 30 minutes the amount of time VSOs may have to present testimony regarding legislative priorities. Testimony from VSOs on the President's budget request and proposed policy initiatives, however, will still be limited to three minutes, a restriction which all the VSOs consider to be totally inadequate and counterproductive. VSOs reacted angrily when Chairman Buyer last November decided to do away with a decades-long tradition in which veterans groups presented their legislative agenda to a joint meeting of the House and Senate Veterans Affairs Committees.

Photography Franchise Offer Contest for vets

Wildflecken Veterans Association

TSS Photography, a youth photography franchise formerly known as The Sports Section, has announced it will award a franchise territory worth $20,000 to a retired or honorably discharged member of the Armed Forces. The 250,000-population territory can be anywhere in the country where TSS Photography does not have a current franchise. The winner will receive the franchise territory, plus $5,000 in equipment and three nights at the TSS Photography Convention Hotel for training and public relations support for their opening for a total value of $30,000. Candidates must submit an essay focusing on what their service to America has meant to them, why they would be an excellent franchise owner and why TSS Photography would be their franchise of choice. The essay should demonstrate previous entrepreneurial ambition, and dedication or commitment to their communities through activities such as involvement in local organizations, donations to charitable causes, or youth outreach. For additional information refer to www.tssphotography.com.

PURPLE HEART STAMP Not being Discontinued

Wildflecken Veterans Association

With the recent increase in postal rates, supporters of the Purple Heart Stamp were concerned that the Postal Service might discontinue the stamp which honors the heroes who have received the Purple Heart Medal. With support from a petition and letter writing campaign launched by Sen. Hillary Clinton's office and the Military Order of the Purple Heart, the Postal Service announced last week that the Purple Heart stamp is coming back as a 39-cent version. There was clearly a tremendous amount of public support for keeping the stamp in circulation.

US military chiefs expressed outrage over a reprehensible Washington Post cartoon

Wildflecken Veterans Association

US military chiefs expressed outrage over a reprehensible Washington Post cartoon which used a soldier who has lost his arms and legs in battle to portray the state of US military readiness. "We're all very upset about that," General Peter Schoomaker, the army chief of staff told reporters. Schoomaker and the other military chiefs took the unusual step of signing a joint letter to the Washington Post blasting the cartoon by Tom Toles,the newspaper's editorial cartoonist. Using the likeness of a service member who has lost his arms and legs in war as the central theme of a cartoon was beyond tasteless, the letter said, which the Post published Thursday. It was signed by General Peter Pace, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the vice chairman and the heads of the army, navy, air force and marine corps. The cartoon, which was published January 29, showed a heavily bandaged soldier with no arms or legs. At his side,

US Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld, dressed as a doctor, says I'm listing your condition as battle hardened. The cartoon alluded to comments Rumsfeld made last week rejecting a

House VA Panel Hearing Plan Mutes Veterans� Voices David E. Autry (202) 314-5219 January 23, 2006 Author

Wildflecken Veterans Association

WASHINGTON�An overhaul of legislative hearings announced by the chairman of the House Veterans� Affairs Committee seems deliberately designed to marginalize the influence of the nation�s veterans on funding levels for the Department of Veterans Affairs and other important public policy issues, according to the Disabled American Veterans.
Last November Committee Chairman Steve Buyer (R-Ind.) decided to end a decades-long tradition that gave veterans groups the opportunity to present testimony regarding a wide range of legislative priorities before a joint session of the House and Senate Veterans� Affairs Committees. The DAV and other organizations tried, unsuccessfully, to get Rep. Buyer to reinstate those joint hearings, which they viewed as an invaluable tool in formulating public policy toward America�s veterans.

Looking for photos of Shaq while at Wildflecken 1985-88

Wildflecken Veterans Association

This post submitted by Eric Hamilton -
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We are producing a documentary film about Shaquille O'Neal (for A&E Biography) and I am desperately trying to locate photographs from the four years when Shaq lived at Wildflecken.

Shaq is an army brat and he and his family lived at Wildflecken between 1985 and 1988 while his father, Phil Harrison, was stationed there.

What many people don't know is that Shaq basically became a good basketball player at Wildflecken. And more importantly, Shaq credits his time at Wildflecken as when he turned his life around - he went from being a "juvenile delinquent" (his words) to getting his head on straight and dedicating himself to becoming a good student and basketball player.

LAPTOP HARDWARE SECURITY

Wildflecken Veterans Association

A laptop computer is an essential tool, but it also creates all kinds of security problems. Think of your laptop as $1,000 in cash. Would you leave that much cash sitting on a table unprotected, in the front seat of a car, or in an unattended office or hotel room? Here are five ways to prevent your laptop from being stolen:

H.R.1815 National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2006 has the following provision: SEC. 565. COLD WAR VICTORY MEDAL

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Subtitle H--Decorations and Awards
SEC. 565. COLD WAR VICTORY MEDAL.
(a) Authority- Chapter 57 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new section:

`Sec. 1134. Cold War Victory Medal
`(a) Medal Authorized- The Secretary concerned shall issue a service medal, to be known as the `Cold War Victory Medal', to persons eligible to receive the medal under subsection (b).
The Cold War Victory Medal shall be of an appropriate design approved by the Secretary of Defense, with ribbons, lapel pins, and other appurtenances.

Listen Up - Attention to Detail

Wildflecken Veterans Association

The following e-mail was sent to a fellow Member Evans Crockett of WVA. A Mrs. Soldie Ronk the author of the e-mail is seeking some information for a friend on the where abouts of a Richardson Cleveland. His service dates are 1954 to 1956 and was stationed in the Bamberg area. I know that some of you were stationed in that area during those years. So, put you thinking caps on. If you can remember anything about this fellow, it sure would make someone very happy.

Dear Mr. Crockett,

My name is Mrs. Ronk and I live in Bamberg Germany.I am writing you on behave of a relative whose speaks only german. He has been searching for an individual who was stationed in Wildflecken Germany During the years 1955-56. In his search we came across your Email. Maybe you could be of help to us. We are looking for a black male by the name of Richardson Cleveland or Cl. Rich. perhaps stationed at 373rd INF Armored BN, Tankdriver No.24? or unit 33rd INF. Scout Dog Platoon. He also worked at the EM and NCO Club as a door keeper during 54-56. His last known adress was in Sarasota Florida, Cornstreet 6? during 1954. He was at the time befriended with a woman named Elli Eisenhut who worked as a maid on post in Wildflecken at a Marjor Lagrunn,s house. Perhaps this information is of no use for you but if you could give us any information on how to find this person, should he still be alive, I would be thankful. My adress:

Mrs. Soldie Ronk
Meisenweg 596158
Bamberg, Germany
or you can e-mail her at

Soldieronk@yahoo.com

EMERGENCY ALERT

Wildflecken Veterans Association

If you receive an e-mail from the FBI with an e-mail address of post@fbi.gov with attachment DELETE IT NOW. the body of the message is as follows:

Dear Sir/Madam,

we have logged your IP-address on more than 30 illegal Websites.

Important:
Please answer our questions!
The list of questions are attached.

Yours faithfully,
Steven Allison

*** Federal Bureau of Investigation -FBI-
*** 935 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Room 3220
*** Washington, DC 20535
*** phone: (202) 324-3000

For all intense and purposes this e-mail looks to be legitimate. But IT IS NOT. The FBI is currently in an active investigation to find out how this e-mail was generated. DO NOT OPEN THIS E_MAIL. DELETE IT NOW.

Mac

PTSD REEVALUATION Update 03:

Wildflecken Veterans Association

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) secretary announced 10 NOV it will NOT review the files of 72,000 veterans currently receiving disability compensation for post-traumatic stress disorder. VA's Inspector General reported on 19 MAY 05 an examination of the files of a sample of 2,100 randomly selected veterans with disability ratings for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The IG cited insufficient documentation in the files and a dramatic increase in veterans filing for disability compensation for post-traumatic stress disorder since 1999. The VA having completed a careful review of those 2,100 files cited in the IG's report concluded the problems with these files appeared to be administrative in nature, such as missing documents, and not fraud. In the absence of evidence of fraud they are not going to put affected veterans through the anxiety of a widespread review of their disability claims. Instead they are going to improve the training of VA personnel who handle disability claims and toughen administrative oversight.

A Message from LT Ilario Pantano USMC

Wildflecken Veterans Association

This Veterans Day please put your goodwill into action. There are many men and women still overseas and if you know of any personally and have their address, please send them a note or a package.
Below is the address for the men I served with that are now in Iraq for their 3rd combat tour. These men are America?s warriors and I would be grateful if you could show them some support.

ANY MARINE
2nd Battalion, 2nd Marines, Easy Company
Unit 73070
FPO AE 09509-3070

Especially useful are magazines, new or old, which provide some escape from the routine of combat. A copy of a local paper commemorating Veterans Day would make these heroes feel connected, or even just a sports section as it truly is the thought that counts.

Thank you and Happy 230th Marine Corps Birthday.

I remain Semper Fidelis,
Ilario Pantano

Happy Veterans Day. - We Shall never Forget

Wildflecken Veterans Association

COLA 2006 UPDATE 03

Wildflecken Veterans Association

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that recent jump in energy prices boosted the Consumer Price Index another 1.5% in September. That resulted in a 4.1% COLA based on the increase in average costs from the third quarter of 2004 to the third quarter of 2005 -- this 4.1% percentage increase is the increase that will be applied (in most cases) to military retired pay, Social Security, Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) annuities and veterans' (VA) disability compensation as of 1 DEC 05. The increases will first appear in January 2006 paychecks. This is the largest COLA since the 1991 increase of 5.4%. The month-by-month inflation track and historical CPI/COLA information can be seen at www.moaa.org/controller.asp?pagename=lac_issues_second_career_cola. Newly retiring members receive a somewhat smaller, partial COLA for the year of their retirement, because they already received a January military pay raise (which also raised their retired pay) during their retirement year:

DISASTER PREPAREDNESS Are you prepared?

Wildflecken Veterans Association

This post submitted by Mac - -
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The devastation from Hurricane Katrina has made us all stop to consider our level of disaster preparedness. Are you confident you'd know what to do in the event of an emergency? Do you have everything you need to deal with a fire, earthquake, storm, or other disaster? If your answer to either or both questions is no, now is the time to do something about it. Following are some excellent online resources to help you get started and assist you in being better prepared before disaster strikes:

The New Members Photo Album "UPDATE"

Wildflecken Veterans Association

This post submitted by Mac - -
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The photo album is back on line. The newest features include the abilty to change the look of the album to one of several styles of your choice. An intergrated upload feature and more informative method of discribing your photographs. The best is if someone wanted to swipe one of your photos by cut and pasting they will only get a pixel. Plus each photo is watermarked with the WVA logo. This is for you protection as well as mine. OK having said that you now can log into the album. Use the same username and password you use for the site. There is another great advantage to this method. You can now directly link to the photo album without having to log into the site. Have fun and lets see some more photos uploaded.

LOCATING VETERANS:

Wildflecken Veterans Association

If asked, the government is prohibited from arbitrarily releasing the names and addresses of citizens by the Privacy Act of 1974. However, various federal agencies do provide locator services, some formal and others not, and will forward your correspondence. The Armed Forces World-Wide locators will forward letters to former members of some services receiving retirement pay for active duty or reserve service. Refer to bulletin article titled "Locator Services via Letter" for procedures and addresses. Some other alternatives are:

911 We Will Always Remember

Wildflecken Veterans Association

I am sure we will always remember 911. permanently imbedded in our memories as was Pearl Harbor forever burned into the minds of the Greatest Generation.Now we have Hurricane Katrina which will probably be written in history books as the worst catastrophe to ever hit the United States. If there was anytime to be united it is now. We must stop the blame game. Be a part of the solution. If you are unable to help monetarily, or sending supplies or material items. Then listen. That's right, provide a shoulder to lean on, an ear to listen, a hug of assurance. All this builds confidence. It provides hope and out of hope brings unity and out of unity brings strength and from strength will bring life. Tomorrow is the 4th anniversary of 911.

Wildflecken

Wildflecken Veterans Association

This post submitted by Josepha Reppline Wetch - -
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I have to say that Wildflecken was one of my favorite places. A lot of soldiers probably hated it because they were in the middle of nowhere.Well the fact is there were a lot of things to do,you didn'necessary need a car,buses and trains were running constantly.Taxi,s were very reasonable and parties were happening all over the place....Josie

IMPORTANT RESCUE INFORMATION

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Coast Guard and Rescue Coordination Center are no longer taking rescue requests by phone due to overwhelming number of calls.

ALL rescue requests (even from within DHS) must be submitted via the Coast Guard web site.

Cold War News

Wildflecken Veterans Association

I am proud to announce a new feature to our website. Francis Gary Powers, Jr. Founder of the The Cold War Museum has granted permission to add his Newsletter to the Wildflecken Veterans Website. We must keep the Cold War and the events that led to it's Victory alive. The Cold War Newsletter will now be a Monthly feature viewable from the Main Navigation Menu. Gary and his team need our support.

The Flying Saucer Sled

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Being a cook with HHQ 2/15 had its benefits. No bed check, POV, Class A pass, room in the mess hall. Other than being in the field most of the time it wasn't bad. The best day was payday. I made 117.00 bucks a month. By the time I got past all the donations and the local loan shark I was left with, maybe 70 dollars. So for the first 4 or five days we all lived like millionaires.

Fake Heroes Prosecution options proposed.

Wildflecken Veterans Association

FAKE HEROES: Rep. John Salazar (D-CO) has introduced "The Stolen Valor Act of 2005" (H.R. 3352), which would authorize authorities to prosecute individuals who falsely claim to rate military decorations, medals, or badges.

How many of you remember the Troop Ship you sailed on.

Wildflecken Veterans Association

I remember boarding the USNS Gordon at the Brooklyn Army Terminal in Late August of 1961. It took us 7 and

half days to get to Breminhaven. I sailed with 1600 GI's and almost all of the guys I did basic with. I left the ship in Breminhaven and was the only one going to Wildflecken.33 Months later I boarded the USNS Darby and met up with most of the same guys I sailed with on the Gordon. It's another experience I will never forget. We'll cover more on this later.

AGENT ORANGE ELIGIBILITY, Fort Gordon Retiree E-Notes, JUL 05

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Military retirees, who served in Vietnam between 1962 and 1975 or Korea in 1968 and 1969 are presumed by the Veterans Administration to have been exposed to Agent Orange .

BRAIN CANCER LINK TO SARIN, USA TODAY Liz Szabo article 25 JUL & VVA News Flash 26 JUL 05

Wildflecken Veterans Association

A study commissioned by the military and performed by the Institute of Medicine has found an increase in brain cancer deaths among Gulf War veterans. The institute advises the government on health policy. About 100,000 of the 350,000 Army soldiers in the Persian Gulf could have been exposed to the nerve agent sarin after soldiers blew up two large ammunition caches in Khamisiyah, Iraq, in MAR 91. Included in the caches were weapons containing sarin and cyclosarin, nerve agents which can cause convulsions and death. At the time, the military didn't know that the destroyed Iraqi rockets contained sarin but subsequently United Nations inspectors found that some of the weapons did. Those exposed showed no immediate signs of exposure to chemical warfare. The military has since contacted about 300,000 veterans who were in or near areas that might have been affected. The potential hazard area, where shifting winds could have carried traces of chemicals, extended at times as far as Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.

Hanoi Jane is at it again

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Doesn't this woman get it? From sitting on a canon with the North Vietnamese Army, to saying that Georgia's poor is the same as a third world country and now she is going to get involved again with her anti war rhetoric. I have nothing against anyone not being in favor of our actions in Iraq, you have a right to disagree. Hanoi Jane hasn't a clue about voicing her opinion in a forum where these subjects are discussed in an intelligent way. What I am afraid of is she'll end up standing in a Baghdad street somewhere wearing a rag around her head and holding an AK-47 with a bunch of insurgents and getting more GI's killed. I inserted a POLL where you can vote whether she should do this or not.

�2005 Authors. All opinions expressed in this or these articles are the posters and do not necessarily reflect those of the site owners

U. S. to Return 11 Bases to Germany in Fiscal 2006 By Jim Garamone

Wildflecken Veterans Association

WASHINGTON, July 29, 2005 � About 6,100 soldiers will be affected by the United States returning 11 bases to Germany in fiscal 2006, Defense Department officials said today.

The return of the bases is part of the Army's transformation effort that will result in the 1st Infantry Division returning to Fort Riley, Kansas.

�2005 Authors. All opinions expressed in this or these articles are the posters and do not necessarily reflect those of the site owners

Site announcements

Wildflecken Veterans Association

It has dawned on me that some of you would like a copy of some of the articles listed here. I know you it won't allow you to right click and save, but you can mail the article to yourself or others by merely clicking the mail button just below the article.You will receive an e-mail with a link back to the site. Click that link and then you will be able to cut and paste.

Soldiers Capture Terrorists Seen Planting Roadside Bomb American Forces Press Service

Wildflecken Veterans Association

WASHINGTON, July 23, 2005 � U. S. soldiers captured nine terrorists July 22 after they were seen placing an improvised explosive device, military officials in Baghdad reported today.

The soldiers saw two vehicles pull to the side of a road north of Forward Operating Base Kalsu. Nine men armed with AK-47 assault rifles got out and began placing an improvised explosive device. The soldiers engaged the men with small arms fire and captured five wounded terrorists. Four others, one of them wounded, fled and were captured by another U. S. patrol. The wounded terrorists were taken to the 86th Combat Support Hospital in Baghdad. The remaining three are being held for questioning.

�2005 Authors. All opinions expressed in this or these articles are the posters and do not necessarily reflect those of the site owners

Wilflecken -1952-1955 This post submitted by GEORGE WALTON

Wildflecken Veterans Association

I arrived in Wildflecken in November 1952. I was a member of a contingent of replacements for the 373rd Armored Infantry Battalion-7th Army Unit. We were the first Caucasians to arrive to integrate an all black unit. I was a PFC at the time having served in the Korean War, Co K, 31st Inf. Regt, 7th Inf. Div. The unit still had half-track vehicles for movement. We later became the first unit in Europe to receive the new armored personnel carrier. We had a good well knit battalion, well trained and morale was very high. I was 18 years old at this time. I progressed thru the ranks and by the time I was 20 years old I was a Sergeant First Class. I stayed in the Army for 28 years, retired in May 1979 as a Command Sergeant Major. I live in Nashua Iowa. Address: PO Box 782, Nashua, Iowa 50658 email:� nashuaalton7@msn.com . I� doubt that you have any members who were in Wildflecken at this time period. If there is anyone who wants to know what it was like in those days I would be happy to hear from them.

DoD Releases Study on Link Between Agent Orange and Diabetes Jul 06, 2005

Wildflecken Veterans Association

The Department of Defense released today the latest report of the Air Force Health Study on the health effects of exposure to herbicides in Vietnam, which includes the strongest evidence to date that Agent Orange is associated with adult-onset diabetes. This supports the findings from earlier reports in 1992 and 1997.

When Eagles Learn to Fly by Pfc. Jamie A. Goldstein 2nd Battalion, 58th Regiment Jan. 14, 2005

Wildflecken Veterans Association

High atop a mountain,
The newest look around.
In their hearts they yearn to jump,
But to the nest, they're bound.
They see what's going on abroad,
And it consumes their thoughts.
There's shoes to fill and prey to kill,
And targets to be caught.
They may be mean, they may be angry,
Strong may be their drive.
But all of that means nothing,
'Til these eagles learn to fly.

New Feature

Wildflecken Veterans Association

I have added a new feature to the site. If you scroll down to the bottom of the page and look to the left where it says Visitors Online you will see your username. If there is any other members logged in you will see their names as well. Sometimes you might see 3 or more on line but only see 1 other member, then that means that only you and the other member is logged in and the others are just visitors. You can click on member names and see their profile or send them a private message (PM).

2005 POW/MIA Recognition Day Poster Unveiled, By Rudi Williams

Wildflecken Veterans Association

WASHINGTON, June 16, 2005 � The 2005 POW/MIA Recognition Day poster was unveiled here June 15 in honor of the sacrifices made by prisoners of war and servicemembers still unaccounted for, spanning World War II to Operation Iraqi Freedom.
About 140,000 copies of the 2005 POW/MIA Recognition Day poster are being sent to ships at sea, military installations worldwide, Veterans Affairs medical facilities and to veterans and family organizations.

Photo courtesy of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office. Click on photo or here for High Resolution image copy..

AOL ADVISORY UPDATE

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Because of the AOL program's filter system I have no idea who is and is not receiving Bulletins or Newsletters and or having problems with what they do receive. AOL & Compuserve (or any other subsidiary of AOL) users experiencing difficulty receiving Bulletins and Newsletters and other messages can in many cases rectify this problem by accessing and adjusting the spam settings in their AOL program as follows

Master Military Records Index

Wildflecken Veterans Association

I have just installed the list of contacts and index of the Master Records Index. Here you will find address and links for everything from your Military Records to Film and Archives. At the bottom of each of these articles is a MAIL button. Mail a copy of this article to yourself for your own records. Click here for Record Index

�2005 Authors. All opinions expressed in this or these articles are the posters and do not necessarily reflect those of the site owners

Attack on a US Naval Ship the USS Liberty by Israeli RDF.

Wildflecken Veterans Association

I just watch the hour long documentary on the Discovery Channel about the Attack on the USS Liberty Ship on June 8th 1967 by Israeli Air and Sea forces.The documented evidence proves that Israel new they were attacking an American Ship but went ahead and did it anyway. At the top of my list of what pisses me off is they did it with extreme prejudice with the sole purpose of killing everyone on board to keep secret what their real intentions where with the war against Syria. Who else is on this list you ask? Our own Government. Why isn't anyone making any effort to investigate this atrocity? Why aren't the individuals who perpetrated this crime brought to justice? Who the hell are the Israeli's to get away with this murder? You guys need to visit the USS Liberty.Org and see for yourself what they are going through.

�2005 Authors. All opinions expressed in this or these articles are the posters and do not necessarily reflect those of the site owners

Army announces new Combat Action Badge eligibility - June 10, 2005

Wildflecken Veterans Association

WASHINGTON (Army News Service, June 10, 2005) -- The Army announced this week the eligibility requirements for its new Combat Action Badge.
The requirements are laid out in a Department of the Army letter published on June 3. The letter also discusses changes to the Combat Infantryman Badge and the Combat Medic Badge.
click here to read the letter, which is posted on the Military Awards Branch page of the Human Resources Command webpage: Changes to the Combat Infantryman Badge and the Combat Medical Badge and the Establishment of the Combat Action Badge. Information on processing procedures for the CAB may also be found at the Military Awards Branch page.)

�2005 Authors. All opinions expressed in this or these articles are the posters and do not necessarily reflect those of the site owners

U.S., Russian Soldiers assault Grafenwoehr in Torgau �05 By Karl Weisel June 6, 2005

Wildflecken Veterans Association

GRAFENWOEHR, Germany (Army News Service, June 6, 2005) � More than 400 U.S. and Russian Soldiers trained together in Germany and Russia during Exercise Torgau 2005 May 23 to June 3.

A 1st Armored Division and Russian Soldier shake hands at the small arms range of the Russian army�s Vystrel Training Center May 26. The Soldiers exchanged unit patches a few moments earlier. Master Sgt. David Melancon

�2005 Authors. All opinions expressed in this or these articles are the posters and do not necessarily reflect those of the site owners

To all Present and Future Members of Wildflecken Veterans Website

Wildflecken Veterans Association

I think I am about at a point where the site is looking pretty good. However, since it is only from one perspective "Me" I need your feedback. Remember. My first tour was a cook. If I tried to feed everyone the stuff I liked I would probably end up feeding about 2 guys. Having said that, it is very important for you to tell me what you would like to see and have done to the site. I know I can't make everyone happy, but I can sure try. -You can Contact me here- Or better yet, leave a comment below.

The Wildflecken Veterans is considered a Content and BLOG site. What do I mean by that? It incorporates content of any given subject and it also allows you as members to add your own news and comments. This is where the BLOG comes in. BLOG is short for Web log. It uses RSS (Really Simple Syndication) A good source for learning about RSS can be found here.
The articles and comments that are entered are picked up by other sites to view on their websites. If you were to click on the RSS Button at the bottom of this article you would see code that would appear that something wasn't working. This is just the opposit. This is the code that is picked up by other sites for that article. Starting to make sense? Other sites that can pick up these feeds would be other Blogging sites, Military sites, some local news agencies and possibly prime time news agencies. So make sure when you write something it represents our ideals and values as Americans.

There will be a major upgrade to the site around October of this year. The format of this site will stay the same but with more features, easier, and understandable login process and a better administration functions which would be transparent to the member. The change over will be seamless and possibly a short outage.

Commemoration Salutes Americas Greatest Generations -- Old and New

Wildflecken Veterans Association

By Petty Officer 3rd Class John R. Guardiano, USN American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, May 30, 2005 � America's top military leaders -- the commander in chief, secretary of defense, and chairman of the joint chiefs of staff -- commemorated this Memorial Day

The rumor mill is back in operation

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Rumor has it that the Cold War Medal is back in play. Forget it! As long as Donald H Rumsfeld is the SECDEF it ain't gonna happen. You'll just have to wait until the next administration and hope they will agree that that Cold War Military needs the Medal issued.

If the Powers to be at the VFW read this, it sure will boost the membership. Now, if Hillary gets in you can forget it for another 4 years and probably many more benefits. In the mean time keep calling your representatives.

Myers Calls Guantanamo Torture Reports

Wildflecken Veterans Association

By Petty Officer 3rd Class John R. Guardiano, USN American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, May 29, 2005 � The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff took strong exception today to recent media reports of systemic torture and abuse of prisoners at the U.S. military prison in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The International Committee of the Red Cross "has been at Guantanamo since day one," Air Force Gen. Richard B. Myers told Chris Wallace on "Fox News Sunday." "It is essentially a model facility."

America Supports You: Indiana Jeweler Creates Sterling Tribute By Samantha L. Quigley

Wildflecken Veterans Association

WASHINGTON, May 27, 2005 � An Indiana jeweler has put a new twist on the well-worn bracelets supporting various causes.

Indiana jeweler Jan Marten designed a sterling silver bracelet in support of the troops. All proceeds beyond the cost to make the bracelet are being donated to the Indiana National Guard Relief Fund. Courtesy photo.
Jan Marten owns J.S. Marten Jewelers in Carmel, Ind., a store that boasts a patriotic spirit.

Moment of Remembrance Aims to Put Memorial Back in Memorial Day

Wildflecken Veterans Association

By Rudi Williams American Forces Press Servi
WASHINGTON, May 26, 2005 � The National Moment of Remembrance on Memorial Day is an act of national unity, remembrance and rededication to the ideals upon which the nation was founded, the executive director of the White House Commission on Remembrance explained.
At 3 p.m. local time on May 30, Major League Baseball games will stop, Amtrak train whistles across the nation will blast, and hundreds of other nationwide participants will ask Americans to pause for the National Moment of Remembrance for the nation's fallen, said Carmella LaSpada.

U.S. Mint Strikes Marine Corps Commemorative Silver Dollar

Wildflecken Veterans Association

WASHINGTON, May 26, 2005 � The U.S. Mint at Philadelphia celebrated National Military Appreciation Month May 25 with the ceremonial strike of a new commemorative coin, the 2005 Marine Corps 230th Anniversary Silver Dollar.

The Marine Corps 230th Anniversary Silver Dollar represents the first time the United States has honored a branch of the military with a commemorative coin

National Guard and Reserve Mobilized as of May 25, 2005

Wildflecken Veterans Association

This week, the Army, Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps announced a decrease in the number of reservists on active duty in support of the partial mobilization, while the Coast Guard number remained the same. The net collective result is 367 fewer reservists mobilized than last week.

At any given time, services may mobilize some units and individuals while demobilizing others, making it possible for these figures to either increase or decrease. Total number currently on active duty in support of the partial mobilization for the Army National Guard and Army Reserve is 144.459; Naval Reserve, 3,536; Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve, 9,577; Marine Corps Reserve, 10,818; and the Coast Guard Reserve, 585. This brings the total National Guard and Reserve personnel, who have been mobilized, to 168,975, including both units and individual augmentees.

A cumulative roster of all National Guard and Reserve personnel, who are currently mobilized, can be found at Department of Defense

Last 25th ID Unit in Afghanistan Prepares to Redeploy to Hawaii By Staff Sgt. Bradley Rhen, USA

Wildflecken Veterans Association

FORWARD OPERATING BASE SALERNO, Afghanistan, May 25, 2005 � After a year in Afghanistan, the soldiers of Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, Combined Task Force Thunder are preparing to redeploy to Hawaii. Army Col. Gary H. Cheek, commander of Combined Task Force Thunder (center), and Command Sgt. Maj. Edmund Murrell, CTF Thunder command sergeant major (right), walk with Capt. John Sego, commander of Company B, 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, and a member of the Afghan National Army during a foot patrol Nov. 5, 2004, in Sehla, Afghanistan, in Paktika Province.

Here is a paragraph from page 17 of HEAVEN & HELL -- THE WAR DIARY OF A GERMAN PARATROOPER (1988) by Martin Poppel

Wildflecken Veterans Association

"In August (1939) we went to Wildflecken troop training grounds. The marches, exercises, night alerts, the shooting and radio practices were all even worse than before. Every day we fell into our beds completely exhausted. In action later on, we realized time and again how valuable this training had been for us. Sweat saves blood, that was a truism that was often confirmed later. We didn't know it yet though, so we cursed and swore at everything and everyone, at every stripe and every star. However, this tough training eventually began to produce results. After a major Regimental exercise the Signal Communication Platoon was singled out for special praise by Oberstleutnant Grazy, an excellent Austrian officer. After our period at the troop training grounds ended, I never forgot one of our mottos about the damn place:
Lieber den ganzen Arsch voller Zwecken, als vierzehn Tage Wildflecken. (Better an arseful of nails than two weeks at Wildflecken

Followup Lt. Pantano Case. Art. 32 Investigating Officer Delivers Report and Recommendations:

Wildflecken Veterans Association
Charges Preferred on 1 Feb 2005 Against Lt. Ilario Pantano Be Withdrawn and Dismissed

Yesterday, May 12, 2005, Major Winn, the Article 32 Investigating Officer for the charges against 2nd Lt Ilario Pantano, USMC, delivered his report and recommendations for disposition of the charges against Lt Pantano. In a thorough report describing the evidence, and more importantly, the credibility of Lt Pantano's chief accuser, Sgt Daniel Coburn, the investigating Officer recommended that the charges preferred on 1 February 2005 be withdrawn and dismissed by the Commanding General, 2d Marine Division. The charges against Lt Pantano included: pre-meditated murder, dereliction of duty, conduct unbecoming an officer, and wrongful destruction of private property.

Task Force Danger Welcomed Back to Germany By Jim Garamone American Forces Press Service

Wildflecken Veterans Association
WASHINGTON, May 16, 2005 � Army leaders recognized the Iraq service and sacrifice of members of Task Force Danger at a ceremony in Kitzingen, Germany, today.
Army Secretary Francis Harvey told the soldiers of the 1st Infantry Division that their service in Iraq was crucial to the success of the Iraqi elections held Jan. 30.

The "Big Red One" was the center of the 22,000-member Task Force Danger, headquartered in Saddam Hussein's hometown of Tikrit -- the heart of the Sunni Triangle.

�2005 Authors. All opinions expressed in this or these articles are the posters and do not necessarily reflect those of the site owners

Col. David H. Hackworth, 1930-2005: Legendary U.S. Army Guerrilla Fighter, Champion of the Ordinary Soldier

Wildflecken Veterans Association

NEW YORK, May 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Col. David H. Hackworth, the United States Army's legendary, highly decorated guerrilla fighter and lifelong champion of the doughboy and dogface,

groundpounder and grunt, died Wednesday in Mexico. He was 74 years old. The cause of death was a form of cancer now appearing with increasing frequency among Vietnam veterans exposed to the defoliants called Agents Orange and Blue.

�2005 Authors. All opinions expressed in this or these articles are the posters and do not necessarily reflect those of the site owners

Heros you don't hear about on the news

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Those of you who might not know, the man on the left is the Commandant of the Marine Corps, and he is proud to know the man on the right. Maybe you'd like to hear about a real American, somebody who honored the uniform he wears. Meet Brian Chontosh.

�2005 Authors. All opinions expressed in this or these articles are the posters and do not necessarily reflect those of the site owners

DoD BRAC Recommendations Expected to Save Nearly $50 Billion

Wildflecken Veterans Association
Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld announced today that the department�s recommendations to close or realign military facilities in the United States will better position U.S. forces to confront this century�s threats....A complete list of bases recommended to BRAC an update can be found here

�2005 Authors. All opinions expressed in this or these articles are the posters and do not necessarily reflect those of the site owners

Committee Reviewing Military Pay Package By Donna Miles American Forces Press Service

Wildflecken Veterans Association
WASHINGTON, May 11, 2005 � A new committee is studying the military compensation system to come up with ways to bring it more in line with what servicemembers want and operational needs demand. The Defense Advisory Committee on Military Compensation held its first public meeting today to explain its marching orders from Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld: to take a look at the current system and recommend how to make it better.

�2005 Authors. All opinions expressed in this or these articles are the posters and do not necessarily reflect those of the site owners

Update...on Marine Lt Pantano Murder Trial posted April 26th

Wildflecken Veterans Association
Last week I e-mailed Lt Pantano and commited our support for him. Today I received this e-mail from the Lt.

Mac, thanks warrior.
Thank you for the tremendous support. Last week was brutal on the family, but we are optimistic that the result will be a positive one. I hope to follow up with you in more detail soon.

Molon Labe, (See Meaning)

Ilario Pantano
2nd Lt USMC

�2005 Authors. All opinions expressed in this or these articles are the posters and do not necessarily reflect those of the site owners

April 22, 2005 Posted by an Army Lieutenant in Iraq

Wildflecken Veterans Association
For those of you who are planning to rotate through Iraq on one of the many OIF tour packages, here are some things to keep in mind.

1. The Big Red Button: If you find yourself in a car with a toggle switch taped to the steering wheel, don�t push it. (An Iraqi informant, trying to prove his worth to the Americans, stole a prepared car bomb. While driving the CB to the American post, the driver apparently flipped the toggle switch taped to the steering wheel and detonated the bomb�)

�2005 Authors. All opinions expressed in this or these articles are the posters and do not necessarily reflect those of the site owners

A US Marine is accused of Murder.

Wildflecken Veterans Association
Back in April 2004, 2nd Lt. Pantano, was confronted by two Iraqis who came toward him despite his order in Arabic to stop He shot and killed both of them. Booby-trapped suicide bombers are killing Iraqis by the score and some have even feigned surrender in order to get close to U.S. soldiers. But the Marine Corps sees it as murder and filed charges against him on Feb. 1. 2005

�2005 Authors. All opinions expressed in this or these articles are the posters and do not necessarily reflect those of the site owners

Georgia Troops out to redeem their 1991 snub during first Gulf War

Wildflecken Veterans Association
I just finished reading an article written by Russ Bynum of the Associated Press about Georgia Troops out to redeem 1991 snub. Guardsman want to erase criticism of being unfit to fight in the first Gulf War. Let me give you my opinion about being unfit. There has always been revelry between the Citizen Soldier and the Active Duty Military. And there always will be. In 1961 as a Regular Army Soldier in basic training we were always told that if we needed extra cleaning supplies to get it from the US (Draftees) and Reserve Training Areas......

LIVING WILL

Wildflecken Veterans Association
Having a document that specifies in advance what medical treatment someone wants if they are severely incapacitated and facing death makes the situation much better for everyone and eases the agony that relatives and friends often encounter. So far about 25% of American adults have one. A living will usually authorizes providing, withholding or withdrawing procedures that would prolong the life of someone in a terminal condition. Hospitals are not the ideal settings for discussing living wills and other health-care decisions.

LIVE FEED from the Pentagon. (Very Good Stuff)

Wildflecken Veterans Association
Anyone who is interested in watching a live feed from the Pentagon can order it from selected Cable and Satellite Companies. At this time DirectTv does not carry it. Click here to find out how you can get this Channel. If you can't receive it you can watch it right here by clicking here. Direct TV is being difficult in accepting the idea of carrying the Pentagon Channel. So What I did was to collect as much information about them that I thought would help in changing their minds. If you are a Direct TV subscriber......

VA HANDBOOK:

Wildflecken Veterans Association

The 2005 edition of "Federal Benefits for Veterans and Dependents" is now available for reading or downloading on the VA web site at http://www1.va.gov/opa/vadocs/fedben.pdf (about 840kb).

WORKING OUT

Wildflecken Veterans Association

If you can read this without laughing, there is something wrong with you. This is dedicated to everyone who ever attempted to get into a regular workout routine.....

How to get your Military Records

Wildflecken Veterans Association

Get your Military Service Records Get your Military Medical Records Get your Military Medals and/or Awards

Facts About the 1973 St. Louis Fire and Lost Records

Wildflecken Veterans Association

The National Archives and Records Administration is the official depository for records of military personnel separated from the U. S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard....

Take the advice of a Corporate Attorney

Wildflecken Veterans Association

1. The next time you order checks, instead of having your first name, have only your initials and last name put on them. If someone takes your checkbook.....

A Pirate

Wildflecken Veterans Association

A pirate walked in to a bar and the bartender said......

Wildflecken Veterans has gone International

Wildflecken Veterans Association

We all remember the days we spent in Wildflecken, Germany but we have forgotten who else has served there.....