A message from the Commandant:
January is a time of new starts and we are off to a good one. I am impressed and pleased with the support that the detachment is getting and the participation of members. Anything that is being built depends on a solid foundation. In discussions with other detachment Commandants and with leaders in other veterans' groups, I have come to know that each relies on a sometimes small core of people to keep things going. I have come to appreciate the effort and guidance that I get from Jim Hastings and Mac MacEntegart who both give generously of their time and energy at both the detachment and the state level. Warren Griffin and Paul Carew stay active and engaged with the VA and other activities, in addition to their regular jobs. Bill Costello dependably keeps us up to date on finance and recordkeeping. Richard Douglas has led our Toys for Tots efforts for a few years now and has kept us up to date on the background matters that impact the program. Mike Whalen is a dependable presence who balances a dynamic work schedule, and John Crisafulli is a long time presence who contributes to many efforts.
I have no doubt failed to reference key members but I can promise you that I appreciate their time and effort. My point is that we have a solid foundation of committed members who have worked to keep the detachment going for the past 15 years. We continue to be one of the more active detachments and each of you can be proud of the contribution that you have made to our outreach and other activities. At a time when many similar groups are struggling, we are moving in a good direction. Certainly, we have challenges but we are capable of meeting and overcoming them. Thank you for your time and energy. Together we will build another excellent year.
Thank you to all who assisted in setting up for the state Department that we hosted on 18 January. We were well represented and the help of all is appreciated.
Upcoming Event: NOTE: CORRECT DATE IS FEBRUARY 19
Iwo Jima Day will be observed at the State House on 19 February. The parade will assemble at Faneuil Hall for an 11:30 start. As this is the 70th anniversary, it is expected to be a big event. All members are encouraged to participate in uniform if possible. More details will be forth coming.
January Meeting Notes:
The detachment met as scheduled on 20 January at 7:30 PM with 18 members in attendance. The opening ceremonies were conducted and minutes of the previous meeting read and accepted. The key items that were addressed follow:
New Member :
George Vouros was sworn in as our newest member. George served as a Corpsman in the Pacific during WWII. He recounted some of his experiences in support of numerous landings, including Iwo Jima. We welcome George and look forward to hearing more of his stories.
Golf Tournament:
Jim Hastings outlined the planning for this year's gold tournament. The date has been set for the third Monday in August. This is a good time to start to making contacts for ad sales and raffle donations. This event is our primary fundraiser and really needs the support and participation of as many as possible.
Toys For Tots:
Committee Lead Richard Douglas summarized the program results and recapped some of the learning experiences this year. With Art Enos transitioning out of the leadership role, the program's new leadership is working to stabilize and progress.
Detachment Attire:
Sweatshirts have arrived and are available for pickup via Jim Hastings. Available in red or green, the sweatshirts have attractive graphics and are available for $30.00. Payment should be made to Paymaster Bill Costello.
Charitable Outreach:
A motion was made, seconded, and approved to donate $5000 to the Semper Fi Injured Marines Fund. This is a leading charity that provides much needed support to wounded warriors and their families.
Social Activities:
Jim Hastings, Warren Griffin, and Paul Carew are working as a committee to investigate and plan activities including cookouts for VA patients and a Marine Corps Birthday celebration. This is an opportunity for all members to participate with ideas and assistance.
State Convention:
The MA State Convention will be held on the first weekend in June at the Doubletree Inn in Hyannis. It is beneficial for us to have as many member attend as possible. Please contact me to let me know if you can attend. Sign up sheets and detailed information will be sent and made available at upcoming meetings.
