Picture at top of page

Picture at top of page
In 1945, Marines persevered to victory in the Battle of Iwo Jima.

Sunday, November 23, 2014


A Message from the Commandant


Thanksgiving is a uniquely American holiday that reflects many of the deep seated beliefs of the country.  Despite our issues and problems, we, as a nation, have been blessed with resources and opportunities.  Many of have been blessed with good fortune or talents that have allowed us to thrive or to at least be reasonably assured of health and comfort.  I hope that each of you are able to have good fortune and opportunity and encourage you to use your talent and resources to help those who may not have been as fortunate.
As Commandant, I am very thankful for the support, participation, and energy of members and supporters.  We have continued to be an active detachment with growing participation and interest.  If each of us can find an extra hour here or there, we will progress as a unit.  I thank you all for what you do and hope that each of you has a fruitful and rewarding holiday.


November Meeting Update


The November meeting was conducted as scheduled on November 17 with 15 members in attendance.  Previous meeting minutes were accepted without objection. 

 The next meeting will be Tuesday, December 16, during which a meal will be provided.  Start time will be moved up to 7:00 PM to allow more time for dinner.   Members are encouraged to bring a gist for the NE Center for Homeless Veterans.  Socks, warm clothing, gloves and similar items are needed


Report of the Paymaster


Paymaster Bill Costello reports that we are in good financial shape.  All obligations have been met and funding to support outreach is on hand.

Toys for Tots

Committee Chair Richard Douglas reported that Pods are in place and warehouse space has been arranged in Everett.  Boxes and posters are in short supply.  The program kicked off on 12 November and will end officially on 12 December.  After the official end, collected toys may be stored for distribution next year.

NOTE:  The detachment will participate in the Natick Christmas Tree Lighting at Natick Common on  30 November from 2:30 until 4:45 PM.  Member are encouraged to attend in uniform as this is in support of the Toys for Tots Program.

Report of the Chaplain  : Sick and Distress

Member Jack Cunningham has had medical issues.  The son of National Senior Vice Commandant Richard Gore passed away.  Chaplain Mike Whalen encourages members to notify him of members or family in distress so that appropriate card can be sent.

A moment of silence was observed to acknowledge Ed Jolley.  Past Commandant Paul Carew read a proclamation that was presented at the Natick Town meeting recognizing Ed's many contributions to the town.  A room in the Natick Community Center will be named for Ed Jolley.  The detachment will donate funding for creation and installation of a plaque.

Marine Rose Program

Marines Jim Hastings, Warren Griffin, Mac MacEntagert, and Dave Gentes participated in the Rose program in November for a combined total over $2000.

The Rose Program is an easy and successful fund raiser.  Members are encouraged to consider participation in the future.   Even one hour of collecting will be helpful.  Roses and training are provided.  This is a good way to make the MCL more visible in the community and meet people who enjoy talking about the MCL and its mission.  It is not hard and it raises funds.  Why not give it a try?

Detachment Attire

Metrowest Detachment Sweatshirts are available in either red or green for $30.  Wouldn't it make a perfect Christmas card to have a picture of everyone in matching sweatshirts?  What wife would not love one of these for those cold winter nights?   Sweatshirts can be ordered at a meeting or by contacting Jim Hasting at snopymike@aol.com or by phone at 508 369 6227 or 508 966 0364.











VA Visitation and Bingo

The next scheduled Bingo and visitation will be held on Wednesday,  Dec 3 at 7:00 PM at the Jamaica Plain VA.  This is greatly appreciated by the patients and requires only about two hours.  Members are encouraged to participate.

Good of the League

 Motions were made and passed to contribute $200 in gift cards for the veterans program in Westborough, and to contribute to defer the cost of the Veterans Day Dinner in Natick.

Warren Griffin proposed that members bring in gifts for the New England Shelter for Homeless Veterans.  John MacEntagert added a proposal that the detachment establish on-going program of support for the shelter.  This will be explored with the shelter.

Paul Carew raised the fact that Pearl Harbor Day will be observed at the Morse Institute in Natick at 7:00 PM.