The following represents the District VII History with changes (1) - (5) incorporated.  This supercedes the history dated 1 May 2002.  All change (5) entries are underlined.

Note: This history is written in order of the District Commander's year (June - June) vice the calendar year.

Until June 1993, the VFW Posts in the Philippines had been in VFW District I. At the 1993 Department of Pacific Areas Convention delegates voted to create District VII - Philippines, the District would consist of Post 2585 in Angeles City, Post 9892 in La Union and Post 11447 in Barrio Barretto.  On 23 October 1993 District VII - Philippines was mustered in and District Officers were installed by Department of Pacific Areas Commander William Penn.

October 1993 - 1994

Commander:  Rhett Webber, Post 9892

Senior Vice Commander:  Jerry Bristle, Post 11447

Junior Vice Commander:  Paul Morgenthal, Post 2485

 - The initial District VII Convention was held in November and hosted by Post 2485 in Angeles City.

 - District Officers and Post members attended the Veterans Day Observation at the Clark Cemetery. Veterans Day at the cemetery is hosted by Post 2485.

 - In December, Post 11447 hosted the Department of Pacific Areas Mid-Term Council of Administration in Barrio Barretto.

 - In March, District Officers attended the National VFW meeting in Washington, DC.

 - The April District Convention was hosted by Post 9892 in La Union. 

 - In May, District Officers and Posts participated in the 3rd Annual Chile Cook-Off and Miss Chili Pepper Contest at the Seabreeze Resort in La Union.  The Cook-Off is sponsored by Post 9892 and the Post won 3rd Runner Up in the Chili Contest.

 - District Officers and Post members attended the Memorial Day Observation at the Clark Cemetery. Memorial Day at the cemetery is hosted by American Legion Post 123, Angeles City.

 - District VII designated as an All American District. Commander Webber had the distinction of being the first District VII All American Commander.

 - In June, District Officers and Post members attended the 28th Department of Pacific Areas Convention in Angeles City.  The convention was hosted by District VII and Post 2485.

 1994 - 1995

Commander:  Jerry Bristle, Post 11447

Senior Vice Commander:  Paul Morgenthal, Post 2485

Junior Vice Commander:  Emory Russell, Post 9892

  - District Officers and Post members attended the 2nd Annual Barrio Beach Bash in Barrio Barretto. The Beach Bash is sponsored by Post 11447.

 - The August District Convention was hosted by Post 11447 in Barrio Barretto.

 - The November District Convention was hosted by Post 2485 in Angeles City.

 - District Officers and Post members attended the Veterans Day Observation at the Clark Cemetery. Veterans Day at the cemetery is hosted by Post 2485.

 - In December, Post 11447 hosted the Department of Pacific Areas Mid-Term Council of Administration in Barrio Barretto.

 - In March, District Officers attended the National VFW meeting in Washington, DC.

 - The April District Convention was hosted by Post 9892 in La Union.

 - District Officers and Post members attended the Memorial Day Observation at the Clark Cemetery. Memorial Day at the cemetery is hosted by American Legion Post 123, Angeles City.

 - District VII designated as an All American District. Commander Bristle was the second District VII All American Commander.

 - Post 2485, Angeles City designated as All American Post and Commander Edward Lyons designated as All American Post Commander.

 - In June, District Officers and Post members attended the 29th Anniversary Department of Pacific Areas Convention in Angeles City.  The convention was hosted by District VII and Post 2485.

 1995 - 1996

Commander:  Paul Morgenthal, Post 2485

Senior Vice Commander:  Emory Russell, Post 9892

 Junior Vice Commander:  Robert Evans, Post 11447

 - District Officers and Post members attended the 3rd Annual Barrio Beach Bash in Barrio Barretto. The Beach Bash is sponsored by Post 11447.

 - The August District Convention was hosted by Post 11447 in Barrio Barretto.

 - In October, District Officers and Post participated in the 4th Annual Chile Cook-Off and Miss Chili Pepper Contest at the Bali Hai Resort in La Union.  The Cook-Off is sponsored by VFW Post 9892.  The Post 9892 Ladies Boosters entry won Miss Chili Pepper Contest.

 - The November District Convention was hosted by Post 2485 in Angeles City.

 - District Officers and Post members attended the Veterans Day Observation at the Clark Cemetery. Veterans Day at the cemetery is hosted by Post 2485.

 - In December, Post 11447 hosted the Department of Pacific Areas Mid-Term Council of Administration in Barrio Barretto.

 - The April District Convention was hosted by VFW Post 9892 in La Union. Election and Installation of 96-97 year officers was accomplished.

 - District Officers and Post members attended the Memorial Day Observation at the Clark Cemetery. Memorial Day at the cemetery is hosted by American Legion Post 123.

 - District V11 designated as an All American District.  Commander Morgenthal was the third District VII All American Commander.

 - Post 2485 designated as All American Post.  Commander Kenneth Schaefer designated as All American Post Commander.

 - In June, District Officers and Post members attended the 30th Anniversary Department of Pacific Areas Convention in Angeles City. The convention was hosted by District VII and Post 2485.

1996-1997

Commander:  Emory Russell, Post 9892

Senior Vice Commander:  Robert Evans, Post 11447

Junior Vice Commander:  Kenneth Schaefer, Post 2485

 - District Officers and Post members attended the 4th Annual Barrio Beach Bash in Barrio Barretto. The Beach Bash is sponsored by Post 11447.

 - The August District Convention was hosted by VFW Post 11447 in Barrio Barretto

 - VFW Post 124 was mustered in on 17 October 1996.  Department of Pacific Areas Commander Robert Zaher installed the new officers.

 - In October District Officers and Post participated in the 5th Annual Chile Cook-Off and Miss Chili Pepper Contest at the Bali Hai Resort in La Union. The Cook-Off was sponsored by Post 9892.  Post 124's entry, was elected Miss Chili Pepper.  Post 2485 won 2nd Runner Up in the Chili Contest.

 - The November District Convention was hosted by VFW Post 2485 in Angeles City.

 - District Officers and Post members attended the Veterans Day Observation at the Clark Cemetery.  Veterans Day at the cemetery is hosted by Post 2485.

 - In December, Post 11447 hosted the Department of Pacific Areas Mid-Term Council of Administration in Barrio Barretto.

 - The April District Convention was hosted by VFW Post 9892 in La Union. Election and Installation of 97-98 year officers was accomplished.

 - During the April District Convention Commander Russell adjourned the meeting in order that members could attend the ANZAC Day Observation at the Coconut Grove Resort.  The ANZAC Day Observation was sponsored by the Angeles City Branch of the Returned and Services League of Australia.  Department Commander Robert Zaher was one of the guest speakers.

 - Department Commander Bob Zaher and District VII members participated in the last Golf Tournament at the old Camp John Hay Golf Course.  The tournament was sponsored by VFW Post 124, Baguio.  Prizes for the tournament were furnished by Commander Zaher and Comrade John Butt.

 - District Officers and Post members attended the Memorial Day Observation at the Clark Cemetery.  Veterans Day at the cemetery was hosted by American Legion Post 123.

 - District VII designated as an All American District. Commander Russell was the fourth consecutive District VII All American Commander.

 - In June, District Officers and Post members attended the 31st Anniversary Department of Pacific Areas Convention in Angeles City. The convention was hosted by District VII and Post 2485.

 

1997 -1998

Commander:  Robert Evans, Post 11447

Senior Vice Commander:  Kenneth Schaefer, Post 2485

Junior Vice Commander:  Larry Senato, Post 124

 - In July District Officers and Posts participated in the 5th Annual Barrio Beach Bash at Barrio Barretto. The Bash is sponsored by Post 11447.

 - Commander Robert Evans attended the July monthly meeting of Post 9892.

 - The August District Convention was hosted by VFW Post 11447 in Barrio Barretto.

 - In October, District Officers and Post participated in the 6th Annual Chile Cook-Off and Miss Chili Pepper Contest at the Bali Hai Resort in La Union.  The Cook-Off is sponsored by Post 9892.

 - On 30 October, Past All American Department Commander Ralph Milward, Past All American Department Commander Bob Zaher and Past All American District VII Commander Emory Russell attended the First Anniversary Celebration of Post 124.

 - On 1 November Commander Robert Evans resigned and Senior Vice Commander Kenneth Schaefer moved up to the Commander position, Junior Vice Commander Larry Senato moved to Senior Vice Commander and Robert Zaher was elected Junior Vice Commander.  Past Department Commander E. Ralph Milward installed the new Officers.

 - The November District Convention was hosted by Post 2485 in Angeles City.

 - District Officers and Post members attended the Veterans Day Observation at the Clark Cemetery.  Veterans Day at the cemetery is hosted by Post 2485.

 - Commander Schaefer attended the December monthly meeting of Post 2485 as District Commander.

 - In December, Post 11447 hosted the Department Mid-Term Council of Administration in Barrio Barretto.

 - The February District Convention was hosted by Post 124 in Baguio.

 - On 7 March, Commander Schaefer and District VII members supported the Mt Arayat Shrine Oasis in their annual auction to support Shrine programs.

 - Commander Kenneth Schaefer and Past Department Commander Robert Zaher attended the March monthly meeting of Post 11447.

 - Commander Kenneth Schaefer and Post 2485 Commander Lafayette Donaldson were invited to attend Recognition Day at the Malabanias Elementary School. Commander Schaefer and Commander Donaldson were given a Letters of Appreciation for their support of the school.

 - Commander Kenneth Schaefer, along with Post 2485 Commander Lafayette Donaldson and Post members, attended a ceremony at the cemetery in which the Filipino American Memorial Endowment (FAME) presented Post 2485 P50,000 for Clark Cemetery maintenance.

 - On 11 April, Commander Kenneth Schaefer attended the 11th Anniversary celebration of Post 2485.

 - In April, Commander Schaefer attended the Installation Dinner of Post 2485.

 - The April District VII Convention was hosted by Post 9892 in La Union.  The election and installation of 98-99 year officers was accomplished.  Department Junior Vice Commander Emory Russell installed the new officers.

 - During the April District Convention, Commander Schaefer adjourned the meeting in order that members could attend the ANZAC Day Observation at the Coconut Grove Resort.  Commander Schaefer was asked to give a short address.  The ANZAC Day Observation was sponsored by the Angeles City Branch of the Returned and Services League (RSL) of Australia.

 - District VII designated as an All American District.  Commander Schaefer was the 5th consecutive District Seven All American Commander.

 - On 13 May, Commander Schaefer installed the Post 9892 officers for the 98-99 year.  Past Department of Pacific Areas Robert Zaher also attended.

 - On 14 May, Commander Schaefer installed the Post 11447 officers for the 98-99 year. Post 2485 Commander Lafayette Donaldson and Past All American Department Commander Robert Zaher also attended.

 - On 19 May, Commander Schaefer attended the Post 124 installation of 98-99 officers.  Past Department of Pacific Areas Robert Zaher also attended.

 - In June, District Officers and Post members attended the 32nd Annual Department of Pacific Areas Convention. The convention was hosted by District VII and Post 9892 at La Union. National VFW membership Chairman Thomas Kissell also attended.

1998 -1999

Commander:  Larry Senato, Post 124

Senior Vice Commander:  Robert Zaher, Post 2485

Junior Vice Commander: Melvin “O.B." O'Briant, Post 11447

 - District VII and Post 2485 will host the 33rd Department of Pacific Areas Convention and 30th Grand Scratch at Angeles City in June 1999.

 - In July. District VII Senior Vice Commander Robert Zaher, Junior Vice Commander O.B. O'Briant, other District VII Officers and District Posts participated in the 6h Annual Barrio Beach Bash at Barrio Barretto.  The Bash is sponsored by Post 11447.

 - The August District VII Convention was hosted by VFW Post 11447 in Barrio Barretto.

 - District VII Commander Larry Senato attended the monthly meeting of Post 9892.

 - On 17 October, Commander Larry Senato, Senior Vice Commander Robert Zaher and other District VII Officers and Posts supported the 7th Annual Chili Cook-Off at La Union. The annual Chili Cook-Off is sponsored by Post 9892.

 - At the Chili Cook-Off, Post 124 was presented a trophy for the best chili and Post 2485 received a plaque for second place.

 - The District VII VOD representative was Nathan B. Jones, a 11th grade student at Faith Academy in Manila. He was sponsored by VFW Post 2485.  This was the initial year for District VII participation in the VOD program. Young Mr Jones will represent District VII in the Department VOD Program.

 - The November District VII Convention was hosted by VFW Post 2485 in Angeles City.

 - District Officers and Post members attended the Veterans Day Observation at the Clark Cemetery. Veterans Day at the cemetery is hosted by Post 2485. MOC Grand Commander Emory Russell also attended.

 - Senior Vice Commander Robert Zaher attended the Post 2485 Fund Raising Social at the Bonanza Hotel on 28 November.

 - Post 11447 hosted the Mid Term C of A and Grand Scratch in December at Barrio Barretto. In attendance were VFW National Senior Vice Commander John Smart, VFW National Junior Vice Commander John F. Gwizdak, Candidate for National VFW Junior Vice Commander Joe Salas, and District 16 National Council Member Tom Elliott.

  - On 14 December, Post 2485 hosted a working breakfast, briefing and tour of the Clark Cemetery for VFW National Senior Vice Commander John Smart, VFW National Junior Vice Commander John F. Gwizdak, Candidate for National VFW Junior Vice Commander Joe Salas, and District 16 National Council Member Tom Elliott.  During the briefing and tour Post Commander Donaldson, Post Senior Vice Commander Hubbard (and Cemetery Chairman) and Department Commander Frank Sass solicited help for the cemetery.  Also attending were Tom Tompkins and his wife, Post 9555; Richard Keeley, Post 9467; District III Commander James Mayo, Post 8180; Robert Crittenden, Post 8180; Von Stevens, District II Commander; Donald Carnahan, Post 9612 and Roy Banning, Post 2485.

 - Senior Vice Commander Robert Zaher attended a reception at the Post 2485 Post Home for VFW National Senior Vice Commander John Smart, VFW National Junior Vice Commander John F. Gwizdak, Candidate for National VFW Junior Vice Commander Joe Salas on 14 December. Also attending were, District 16 National Council Member Tom Elliott, Department Commander Frank Sass and MOC Grand Commander Emory Russell.

 - The District VII winner in the Youth Essay Committee Contest was Tyrone Vega, son of Comrade and Mrs George Van Nostern, Angeles City. Young Mr Vega was sponsored by VFW Post 2485.  He was the initial District VII entry.

 - The February District VII Convention was hosted by VFW Post 124 in Baguio Department Senior Vice Commander Emory Russell also attended.

- On 4 April, District VII Youth Assay winner Tyrone Vega was presented a certificate and check for $100 by District VII Youth Assay Chairman Kenneth Schaefer. Young Mr Vega was the initial District VII winner and sponsored by VFW Post 2485.

 - The April District VII Convention was hosted by VFW Post 9892 in La Union.  Election for the 1999 - 2000 year officers were held.  Department Senior Vice Commander Emory Russell installed the officers.

 - Past All American District VII Commander Kenneth Schaefer installed the 1999 - 2000 year officers for Post 9892.

 - Commander (elect) Robert Zaher, District Officers, Department Senior Vice Commander Emory Russell and members from VFW Posts 9892 and 2485 attended the ANZAC Day Observance held at the Coconut Grove Resort, La Union on 25 April. All attendees attended a social immediately after the ceremony.

 - On 28 April, District VII Voice of Democracy Kenneth Schaefer Chairman (Post 2485) presented Nathan Jones a Certificate and $100 cash award for finishing First Place in the District VII Voice of Democracy Contest. Young Mr Jones was sponsored by Post 2485 and the Post winner.  He is from Faith Academy in Manila.. Post 2485 Commander Lafayette Donaldson, Senior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard and Post Voice of Democracy Chairman Roy Banning also attended the presentation.

 - On 22 May, Commander Larry Senato attended a Ceremony/Dinner for the installation of Post 2485 1999-2000 year officers in Angeles City. Past All American District VII Commander Kenneth Schaefer was the installing officer. MOC Grand Commander and Department Senior Vice Commander Emory Russell, Past All American Commander Ralph Milward. Past All American District VII Commander Paul Morganthal, Senior Vice Commander (elect) O.B. O'Briant and Junior Vice Commander (elect) B.K. Hubbard also attended.

  - Commander Senato and District officers and Post members attended the Memorial Day Observance at the Clark Cemetery. The Memorial Day Ceremony was organized by American Legion Post 123.

 

1999 - 2000

Commander:  Robert Zaher, Post 2485

Senior Vice Commander:  Melvin "O.B." O'Briant, Post 11447

Junior Vice Commander:  B.K. Hubbard, Post 2485

 - The July District VII meeting was held at VFW Post 11447 in Barrio Barretto. It was sponsored by VFW Post 11447.

 - Commander Robert Zaher and District officers attended 7th Annual Barrio Beach Bash in Barrio Barretto. The Beach Bash was sponsored by VFW Post 11447. Commander Zaher and Senior Vice Commander O.B. O'Briant participated in the Beach Bash Parade.

 - Commander Robert Zaher and Junior Vice Commander B K Hubbard participated in a VFW Post 2485 Appreciation Night for Junior Past VFW Post 2485 Commander Lafayette Donaldson.    - In August, Commander Robert Zaher and Past All American District VII Commander Kenneth Schaefer attended the National VFW Convention in Kansas City.

 - On 9 October, Commander Robert Zaher and Junior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard attended a Post 2485 Social at the Bonanza Hotel in Angeles City.

 - On 14 October, Commander Robert Zaher and Adjutant Ralph Milward attended the 3rd Anniversary of Post 124.

 - Commander Robert Zaher, Junior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard, District officers and Posts attended the 8th Annual Chili Cook-Off at the Bali Hai Resort in La Union. The Cook Off is sponsored by Post 9892.  The Post 9892 entry in the Miss Chili Pepper Contest won first place.  Post 124 placed second in the Chili Contest.

 - The November District VII Convention was hosted by VFW Post 2485 in Angeles City.

 - District VII Senior Vice Commander O.B. O'Briant. Junior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard, Post officer and Posts attended the Veterans Day Observance at the Clark Cemetery. Members also attended the Post 2485 Picnic at the Post Home.

 - On 14 November, Department of Pacific Areas Commander Emory Russell, District VII Commander Robert Zaher and District VII Junior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard (Post 2485 Commander) cut the ribbon at the new Post 2485 Post Home Grand Opening.  Light pu pus were served after the opening.

 - On 4 December, Commander Robert Zaher, Junior Vice Commander B K Hubbard and Post

2485 members, wives significant others and supporters gathered to fill the give-a-way bags for

the Pearl Buck Foundation Home where Santa Claus passed out the gifts.  District Commander

Zaher was Santa Claus.  National VFW District 16 Council Member Tom Elliott joined in the

festivities.

 - National VFW District 16 Council Member Tom Elliott transferred his membership to Post

2485 on 5 December.

  - The Department of Pacific Areas Mid-Term C of A was held in Barrio Barretto on 11-12 December.  It was sponsored by Post 11447.  Commander Robert Zaher, Junior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard and District VII officers and Posts attended.  John Gwizdak. National VFW Senior Vice Commander Joe Ridgely National VFW Quartermaster General, Ray Sisk, candidate for National JVC from California and Darrell Benken VFW supporter from Kansas were also present.

 - After sufficient recovery from a heart attack and stroke Senior Vice Commander O B O'Briant

made a couple of appearances at Post 11447 during the Mid Term Council of Administration.

 - Commander Robert Zaher and Junior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard attended a Post 2485

Social for John Gwizdak, National VFW Senior Vice Commander Joe Ridgely, National VFW

Quartermaster General.  Also present were Department Commander Emory Russell, Senior Vice

Commander Paul Gasperson, Junior Vice Commander Bill Wichmann, Junior Past Department

Commander Frank Sass and National VFW District 16 Council Member Tom Elliott.

 - The District VII VOD representative was Nathan B Jones a Senior at Faith Academy, Manila. He was sponsored by VFW Post 2485 This was the second straight year young Mr Jones won the Post 2485 and the District VII VOD Programs.  He will represent the District in the Department VOD Program.

 - Commander Robert Zaher and Junior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard attended a

luncheon/meeting of the Rotary Club of Clark Centennial at the Four Seasons Restaurant on Clark

Field. The guest speaker was Spike Nasmyth, a former Viet Nam POW and member of Post

2485.

 - Junior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard attended the Department of Pacific Areas, District V

meeting in Pattaya Beach, Thailand on 15 January.

 - District VII and Post 2485 winner, Mr Nathan B. Jones, a Senior at Faith Academy in Manila. won the Department VOD Contest.  He will represent the Department of Pacific Areas in the National VOD Contest.

 - Miss Maera I. Busa of International School Manila won the District VII Youth Essay Contest

She will represent the District in the Department Contest.  Miss Busa was sponsored by Post

2485.

 - Commander Robert Zaher and members from District VII Posts participated in a Golf

Tournament at the Baguio Country Club. The tournament was sponsored by Post 124 on 10

February.  After the tournament a social and raffle drawing was held a the Post 124 meeting place

(Linda's Restaurant in Baguio).

 - The February District VII Convention was hosted by VFW Post 124 in Baguio on 11 February.

 - On 21 March, Commander Robert Zaher and Junior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard attended a wake for "Mick” O'Brien, very popular Angeles City resident and President of the Returned &

Services League (RSL) of Australia,  Angeles Branch.  The wake was held at Moon Doggies in

Angeles City.

  - On 7 April, Commander Robert Zaher, Junior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard, National VFW District 15 Council Member Tom Elliott and Post 2485 members attended the dedication and unveiling ceremonies for the American Military Memorial at the Capas National Shrine.  The shrine is dedicated to the over 1600 Americans that lost theirs lives while in the POW at Camp O'Donnell.  The shrine contains a replica of a cross constructed during the POW Camp days and a list of the names of those who perished.  Comrade Leroy Becraft, Post 2485 member and former POW, assisted in the unveiling of the monument.  Guests included U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines Thomas Hubbard, Philippine Secretary of Defense Orlando S. Mercado, COL Rafael R. Estrada, PA (Ret), Philippine National Commander Defenders of Bataan/Corregidor, Major Richard Gordon, Adjutant Battling Bastards of Bataan, and Beth Day Romulo Filipino-American Endowment.

 - On 9 April, Commander Robert Zaher, Senior Vice Commander O.B. O'Briant (Post Commander 11447) and Junior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard (Post Commander 2485) attended a Post 2485 sponsored a Memorial to the survivors and those who gave their lives in the Bataan Death March/POW Camps at Camp O'Donnell.  The Memorial was held at KM Marker 112 on the road to Camp O'Donnell.  A wreath was laid by Department Senior Vice Commander Paul Gasperson, Commander Robert Zaher, Senior Vice Commander O.B. O'Briant, Junior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard, Fleet Reserve Association, Branch 46 President Ted "Shorty" Phillips and Comrade Leroy Becraft, a former POW and Post 2485 member.  Members from Post 2485 Post 11447 and American Legion Post 10 were in attendance.

 - On 12 April, Post 2485 celebrated it's 13th Post Anniversary.  Approximately 80 comrades wives and significant others were in attendance for drinks and light pu pus.  Commander Robert Zaher and Junior Vice Commander (Post Commander) B K Hubbard represented District VII Guests included Department Senior Vice Commander Paul Gasperson. Department Junior Vice Commander Bill Wichmann; District 16 Council Member Tom Elliott: Past All American Department Commander Ralph Milward, Past All American Department Commander Frank Sass Past All American District VII Commander Paul Morganthal, Past All American District III Commander Roy Banning, Past Grand Commander John Welsh and Past All State Commander Lafayette Donaldson.

  - The April District VII Convention was hosted by VFW Post 9892 in La Union on 15 April Elections for the 2000-2001 year were held Department Commander Emory Russell installed the new officers. District VII Commander Bob Zaher present Post member with the following awards:

Commander's Plaque for 100% + Membership and a Travel Bag

  * Commander Bill Lawrence, Post 124

  * Commander B.K. Hubbard, Post 2485

  * Commander Tim Aukshun, Post 9892

  * Commander O.B. O'Briant, Post 11447

Plague for `Upkeep of the Clark Cemetery" and Flag Set

  * Al Mitchell., Post 2485

  * Ed Rubio, Post 2485

Plague for "Outstanding Job as Department Convention Chairman" and National Senior Vice Commander John Gwizdak pin

  * Ken Schaefer, Post 2485

Coffee Cup and Key Chain

  * Tom Morrison, Post 9892

Coffee Cup and National Senior Vice Commander John Gwizdak pin

  * Roger Limle, Post 9892

VFW Ball Can and Belt Buckle

  * Noel Kramer, Post 124

VFW Ball Cap and National Senior Vice Commander John Gwizdak pin

  * Seam Squirrel Art Gaspard, Pup Tent 7

  * Seam Squirrel (elect) R.C. Cox, Pup Tent 11

  * Seam Squirrel Werner Koslovski, Pup Tent 15

  * Frank Hilliard, Post 9892

  * R.C. Cox, Post 11447

  * Ralph Milward,

Post 2485 Flag Set

  * Ted "Shorty" Phillips, Post 11447

  * Larry Duke, Post 124

National Senior Vice Commander John Gwizdak pin

  * Jerry Prinz, Post 2485

 - Commander Robert Zaher and Junior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard (Post 2485 Commander)

were selected as members of the All Pacific Team.  Junior Vice Commander Hubbard was appointed Team Captain.

  - On 17 April, Commander Robert was named All Pacific District Commander, Junior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard (2485 Post Commander) was named All Pacific Post Commander and Comrade Paul Morganthal, Post 2485, was named All Pacific Quartermaster.  Comrade Hubbard was named Captain of the All Pacific Team.

 - On 22 April, Post 2485 hosted a luncheon for Post, District VII and Department Voice Of Democracy (VOD) winner Mr Nathan Jones.  Young Mr Jones a student at Faith Academy Manila was accompanied to the luncheon by his parents, Mr and Mrs Lawrence Jones, brother Caleb, sister Keris and a counselor from the Faith Academy, Ms Susan Swearinger.  Mr Jones told about his recent VFW sponsored trip to Washington and delivered his speech.  Commander Robert Zaher presented young Mr Jones a check for$ 100.00 for winning the District VII VOD Contest and All American District VII and Post Commander Kenneth Schaefer (Department VOD Chairman) presented him with a Department VOD Certificate a U.S. Savings Bond for $500.00. Senior Vice Commander O.B. O'Briant (Post 11447 Commander) and Junior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard (Post 2485 Post Commander) were also in attendance.  Approximately 30 members of Post 2485 and Post 11447 attended.

 - Commander Robert Zaher, members of Post 2485 and various Angeles City Veterans organizations attended the ANZAC Day Observance at the Clark Cemetery.  This annual observance is sponsored by the Returned & Services League (RSL) Angeles City Branch.

 - Department Commander Emory Russell, Junior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard, Post 9892 Commander Tim Aukshun and 9892 Post members attended the ANZAC Day Observance at the Coconut Grove.

 - On 28 April, Junior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard attended at Post 2485 Memorial Service for Comrade Orie (Roy) Royce.

 - On 4 May, Junior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard (Commander, Post 2485) and Post 2485 Senior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz attended a luncheon at the Makati Shangri-La Hotel sponsored by the Pearl S. Buck Foundation International Inc. (PSBI).  Post 2485 received an award for their continued support of the Pearl Buck Foundation Home in Angeles City.

 - On 6 May, Junior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard, Post 2485 Cemetery Chairman Albert Mitchell and Post 2485 Cemetery Maintenance Supervisor Edwardo Rubio were invited to Corregidor Island for the dedication of the new WWII Nurses Monument and the opening of the newly renovated Pacific War Museum.

 - On 11 May, Junior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard presented the District VII Post Youth Essay Contest winner, Miss Maera Busa, a check for $50 and a Department of Pacific Areas Youth Essay Plaque.  Miss Busa is 8^th grade student at International School and was sponsored by Post 2485.

 - The installation of Post 2485 2000-2001 year officers was held 27 May at the 2485 Post Home. Department Commander Emory Russell was the installing officer.  District VII Commander Robert Zaher, District VII Senior Vice commander O.B. O’Briant (Post 11447 Commander) and Junior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard were present.

 - Junior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard, and Past All American District VII Commander Kenneth Schaefer attended the Post 11447 Fun Day Activities at Barrio Barretto.

 - On 29 May, Junior Vice Commander B. K. Hubbard and Post 2485 members attended the Memorial Day Observance at the American Cemetery, Manila.

  - Commander Robert Zaher, Senior Vice Commander O.B. O’Briant, Junior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard, Posts and Post members  attended the Memorial Day Observance at the Clark Cemetery.  The Memorial day Observance is sponsored by American Legion Post 123 and supported by the Post 2485 Cemetery Staff.

 - On 30 May, Post 2485 sponsored a Farewell Luncheon for Joe Cooley, Deputy Director, VA Regional Office, Manila.  Junior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard hosted the luncheon.  The luncheon was attended by various Veterans organizations in the Angeles City Area.

 - On 6 June, Junior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard (Post 2485 Commander) and Post 2485 members attended  the dedication of the new Bamban War and Remembrance Memorial at Bamban, Tarlac.

2000 - 2001

Commander:  O.B. O’Briant, Post 11447

Senior Vice Commander:  B.K. Hubbard, Post 2485

Junior Vice Commander:  Tim Aukshun, Post 9892

 - On 3 July, Post 11447 hosted the District VII Convention at Barrio Barretto.  District officers, Posts and Post members attended.

 - On 3 July, District officers, Posts and Post members braved inclement weather to attend the Post 11447 Barrio Beach Bash.  The Beach Bash was finally canceled due to the weather and flooding in Zambales Province.

 - Senior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard and Junior Past Commander Robert Zaher attended the 101^st VFW National Convention in Milwaukee, WI.  Commander Zaher was designated All American District Commander, 1999-2000 and Senior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard was designated All American Post 2485 Commander, 1999-2000.

 - At the October Post 2485 General Membership meeting Post Commander Jerry Prinz presented an “All Pacific District Commander” hat to Past District Commander Robert Zaher and a “All Pacific Post Commander” hat to District VII Senior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard.

 - Post 2485 held a Post Commander’s Appreciation Night for Junior Past Commander B.K. Hubbard (District VII Senior Vice Commander) on 13 October.  Attendance included Past All American District VII Commander Robert Zaher and Past All American District VII Commander  Kenneth Schaefer and approximately 70 Post members and their guests.  The 225^th Navy Birthday of the United States Navy was also observed with a special cake and a moment of silence was conducted for the victims of the USS Cole terrorist attack.

 - District VII Commander O.B. O’Briant and Health Visions Corp presented the Post 124, Post 2485, Post 9892, Post 11447 and Fisher House at Tripler Hospital, Hawaii with wooden service plaques (Navy, Army, Marines, Air Force and Coast Guard).

 - On 21 October, Commander O.B. O’Briant, Senior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard, Junior Vice Commander Tim Aukshun, District officers, Posts and Post members attended  the 9^th Annual Chili Cook-Off at La Union. The Chili Cook-Off is sponsored by Post 9892, Kuto - Pup Tent 7 and the Bali Hai Resort.  First Place is the Chili Judging went to Kuto - Pup Tent 7 (Post 9892).  Miss Cefia Quizon, won first place in the Miss Chili Pepper Contest.  Miss Quizon represented both Post 2485 and Rhapsody Bar in Angeles City. 

 - On 10 November, Post 2485 hosted the Quarterly District VII Convention in Angeles City.  District officers, Posts and Post members attended.

 - On 11 November, Commander O.B. O’Briant, District officers, Posts and Post members attended the Veterans Day Observation at the Clark Cemetery and the Post 2485 Veterans Day Picnic at the Post 2485 Post Home.  Veterans Day activity at the cemetery is sponsored by Post 2485.

 - Senior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard attended the Veterans Day Observation at the American Cemetery and Memorial, Manila and the Philippine Memorial Libingan Ng Mga Bayani.

 - Commander O.B. O’Briant, Senior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard, District Officers, Posts and Post members attended the Department of Pacific Areas Mid Term Conference in Barrio  Barretto.  The Mid Term was hosted by Post11447 and MOC Kuripots - Pup Tent 11.

 - Commander O’Briant, District officers and Posts supported the Post 124 Fun Day and Golf Tournament at Baguio Country Club in Baguio on 8 February.

 - On 9 February, Post 124 hosted the District VII Convention at Baguio.  District officers, Posts and Post members attended.

 - Commander O’Briant, District officers and Posts supported the 8^th Barrio Barretto Beach Bash on 16-19 February.  The Beach Bash is sponsored by post 111447 and MOC Kuripots - Pup Tent 11.

 - On 9 April, VFW Post 2485 conducted the Second Annual Bataan Death March Memorial Ceremony was held at Capas National Shrine (near the site of the WWII POW Camp at Camp O’Donnell).  In attendance were COL Russell Lewey, USAF, Defense Attache, U.S. Embassy, Manila; Department Commander Paul Gasperson; District VII Commander O.B. O’Briant; Senior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard; Junior Vice Commander Tim Aukshun; Leroy Becraft, Post 2485 member and former WWII POW; members from Post 9892, Post 11447, American Legion Post 10, American Legion Post 94, Angeles City DAV Chapter and the Returned & Services League (RSL) of Australia. 

 - The District VOD winner this year was Derek A. Smith from Faith Academy, Manila.  He was sponsored by Post 2485.  In addition to awards from the Post, he received a check for $100 from the District VII.  Post 2485 Commander Jerry Prinz; Post 2485 Senior Vice Commander Buddy McGuire and District VII VOD/Youth Essay Chairman Kenneth Schaefer made the awards at Faith Academy. 

  - The District Youth Essay winner was  Jessica D. Gabriel from International School, Manila.

She was sponsored by Post 2485.  In addition to awards from the Post, she received a $50.00 check from District VII.  Miss Gabriel was also the Department winner and will represent  Department of Pacific Areas in the National VFW Youth Essay Contest.  Post 2485 Commander Jerry Prinz; Post 2485 Senior Vice Commander Buddy McGuire and District VII VOD/Youth Essay Chairman Kenneth Schaefer made the awards at International School. 

 - On 22 April, Post 9892, Post 2485, Senior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard, Past Department Commander Robert Zaher,  Past Department Commander Emory Russell supported the Earth Day Underwater-thon at Coconut Grove Resort, La Union on 22 April.  The event was sponsored by Junior Vice Commander Tim Aukshun and his diving company Ocean Dive.

 - On 25 April, Post 9892 hosted the District VII Convention at La Union.   District elections were held.

 - On 25 April, Post 2485 members attended the ANZAC Day Observance at Clark Cemetery.  This observance is sponsored by  the Returned & Services League of Australia, Angeles City Branch.

- District officers, Posts and Post members attended the ANZAC Day Observance at the Coconut Grove Resort, La Union, 25 April.  This observance is sponsored by members of the

 Returned & Services League of Australia, Angeles City Branch living in the La Union area.  Members from the District VII Convention, at the 9892 Post Home, finished their meeting and attended the ANZAC Day Observance.

 - Senior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard (Commander elect) attended the Fund Rasing Social of Pup Tent 15 at the Bonanza Hotel on 5 May.

 - On 26 May, Senior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard accompanied Dick Jones, Superintendent of the American Cemetery, Manila on an inspection trip to the Cabanatuan Memorial.  Cabanatuan was the site of a WWII POW Camp for Americans.

- On 28 May, Senior Vice Commander Hubbard and Post 2485 officers, Commander Jerry Prinz, Senior Vice Commander Buddy McGuire and Junior Vice Commander Albert Mitchell attended the Memorial Day observance at the American Cemetery, Manila.  Commander Prinz laid a wreath in memory of those who gave their life in the cause of freedom.

 - Commander O.B. O’Briant, Senior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard, Posts and Post members  attended the Memorial Day Observance at the Clark Cemetery.  The Memorial day Observance is sponsored by American Legion Post 123 and supported by the Post 2485 Cemetery Staff.  Commander Paul Gasperson, Department of Pacific Areas also attended.

 - On 17 June, Senior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard and District VII members attended the Grand Fund Rasing Social, sponsored by Pinatubo - Pup Tent 15, at the Bonanza Hotel.

 - On 19 June, Senior vice Commander B.K. Hubbard assumed duties as the MOC Grand Pacific Commander.

 - Commander O.B. O’Briant, Senior Vice Commander B.K. Hubbard, Junior Vice Commander Tim Aukshun, District Posts and members attended the 35^th Annual Department of Pacific Areas at the Maharajah Hotel in Angeles City 18-21 June.  Commander O’Briant accepted a Certificate of Appreciation for the District being over a 100% in membership.  The District also received a $16 rebate for ads sold for the Department Convention Books.

 2001 - 2002

Commander:  B.K. Hubbard, Post 2485

Senior Vice Commander:  Tim Aukshun, Post 9892

Junior Vice Commander:  Jerry Prinz, Post 2485

 - Commander B.K. Hubbard (MOC Grand Pacific Commander) and Junior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz (2485 Post Commander) attended the Pinatubo - Pup Tent 15 June Scratch.  Past Department and District VII Commander Emory Russell and Past District VII Commander Ken Schaefer also attended.

 - On 1 July, District VII Commander and MOC Grand Pacific Commander B.K. Hubbard; Junior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz (Post 2485 Commander) attended the July General Membership Meeting of Post 2485 in Angeles City.

 - On 3 July, Post 11447 hosted the Quarterly District VII Meeting at Barrio Barretto.

 - District Officers, Posts and members joined Post 11447 at their July 4^th Bar-B-Que at the Post Canteen.

 - Post 2485 selected as a VFW All American Post and District VII Junior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz (Commander Post 2485) selected as an All American Post Commander.

 - On 1 July, District VII Commander and MOC Grand Pacific Commander B.K. Hubbard; Junior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz (Post 2485 Commander) attended the August General Membership Meeting of Post 2485.

 - On 14 August, Commander B.K. Hubbard and Senior Vice Commander Tim Aukshun (Post 9892 Commander) attended the August General Membership meeting of Post 9892 in La Union.

 - The Returned and Services League (RSL} of Australia, Angeles City Branch observed Long

Tan Day on 18 August.  Long Tan was a battle of the Viet Nam War involving Australian Forces.

Commander B.K. Hubbard and Comrade Jack Turner, Post 2485, represented the Post.   

 - Commander B.K. Hubbard attended a meeting of the Board of Directors of the Filipino-American Memorial Endowment (FAME) on 11 September.  Post 2485 Commander Jerry Prinz requested he serve on the FAME Committee to restore/replace the Bataan Death March Markers.  - As part of the National VFW Patriotic Weekend, the following were hosted or attended:

   * On 18 September, Commander B.K. Hubbard, Junior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz and members of Post 2485 and Post 11447 attended a Prayer Breakfast, sponsored by American Legion Post 123 and DAV, for the victims of the terrorist attacks on the US East Coast.   Members of the Angeles City Veterans groups were in attendance (DAV, American Legion Post 10, American Legion Post 123, American Legion Post 94, Beagles, RSL and SFA)

   *  Post Commander Gene Gann, Post 11447 members, wives and significant others attended a at Memorial for victims and their families.  The service was held at the Subic Bay Special Economic Zone Chapel on 19 September.

   *  On 22 September, Post 9892 held a Special Memorial Service for the POW/MIA and 11 September victims and their families.  The service was held at the 9892 Post Home on 22 September.

   *  Post 124 conducted a Special Memorial Service for the POW/MIA and 11 September victims and their families.

   *  Commander B.K. Hubbard, Junior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz (Post 2485 Commander) attended a Tribute to POW/MIA and Memorial Service for the 11 September Tragedy.  The function was held 22 September at the Post 2485 Post Home.  Approximately 50 Comrades, friends and guests were in attendance including members of the Filipino, British and Australian communities.

   *  Commander B.K. Hubbard, Junior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz (Post 2485 Commander) attended a Memorial Prayer Breakfast in honor of the 11 September tragedy victims. The function was held 23 September at the Post 2485 Post Home. Approximately 65 Comrades, friends and guests were in attendance including members of the Filipino, British and Australian communities.

 - Comrade Tom Elliott, Post 2485 and Department Adjutant, represented the Department, District VII and Post 2485 at the 100^th Anniversary of the “Balangiga Encounter” (Filipino Version) or “Balangiga Massacre” (American Version).  The anniversary celebration was held Friday, 28 September at Balangiga, Samar.

 - On 9 October, Commander B.K. Hubbard, at the request of FAME, attended a preview of a new commercial video “MacArthur, I Shall Return”.  The video was shown at the American Chamber of Commerce, Manila.

 - Post 2485 officers conducted the VFW grave side burial ceremony for MSGT Leroy Becraft, USAF on 11 October 2001 at the Clark Cemetery.  Comrade Becraft was a WWII POW of the Japanese, captured at Corregidor in 1942, then sent to Japan to do forced hard labor in the coal mines until his release in 1945.  During his time in the coal mines, he sustained back injuries that were to follow him the rest of his life.

 - On 13 October, Post 2485 hosted a Social/Fund Raiser a the Bonanza Hotel, Angeles City.  Commander B.K. Hubbard, Junior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz (Post 2485 Commander), Post 2485 members, friends and guests enjoyed and afternoon of comradery, pasta and cold drinks.  Members of Post 11447, the RSL and Beagles and American Legion Post 123 were also in attendance.                                                                          

 - On 10 November, Post 2485 hosted the Quarterly District VII Meeting in Angeles City.  District officers, Posts and Post members attended..  District VII membership stood at 98.5%.

 - On 11 November, Senior Vice Commander Tim Aukshun, Junior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz (Post 2485 Commander), District officers, Posts and Post members attended the Veterans Day Observation at the Clark Cemetery and the Post 2485 Veterans Day Picnic at the Post 2485 Post Home.  Veterans Day activity at the cemetery is sponsored by Post 2485.

 - Commander B.K. Hubbard, Past All American District VII Commander Ken Schaefer, Post 2485, and District Quartermaster Frank Hilliard, Post 9892,  attended the Veterans Day Observation at the American Cemetery and Memorial, Manila.  Veterans Day activity at the American Cemetery is sponsored by the Department of Veterans Affairs, Manila.

 - The District VII winner in the Voice of Democracy (VOD) Program was Mr Christopher

B. Stapleton.  Young Mr Stapleton is a sophomore at Faith Academy, Manila.  He was sponsored by Post 2485.  He also won at the Department level and will represent at the National level.

 - On 17 November, District VII Commander B.K. Hubbard and Post 2485 members, wives and significant others supported the Beagles in their Appreciation Night at the Dog House in Angeles City.

 - District VII Commander B.K. Hubbard ,Senior Vice Commander Tim Aukshun (Commander, Post 9892) and Junior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz (Post 2485 Commander) attended the 10^th Annual Chili Cook-Off.  The Cook-Off was sponsored by Post 9892/Pup Tent 7 and held at the Bali Hai Beach Resort on 24 November.  All District VII Posts and Pup Tents were represented.

 - District VII Commander B.K. Hubbard ,Senior Vice Commander Tim Aukshun (Commander, Post 9892) and Junior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz (Post 2485 Commander) District officers, Posts and members attended the Department of Pacific Areas 36^th Mid-Term Convention..  The Mid Term, was held in Barrio Barretto on 7-9 December, was sponsored by Post 11447 and Pup Tent 11.  In attendance were VFW National Senior Vice Commander Ray Sisk; Marcus Butler, VFW National District 16 Council Member; and Gary Kurpius, Commander, Department of Alaska (Post 10221), candidate for VFW National Junior Vice Commander.

 - On 10 December, Post 2485 hosted a working breakfast/briefing on the Clark Cemetery for VFW National Senior Vice Commander Ray Sisk; VFW National District 16 Council Member Marcus Butler; and Gary Kurpius, Commander, Department for Alaska (Post 10221).  In attendance were Department Commander Bill Wichmann; District III Commander Bob Henault; District IV Commander Orville Humfleet, Butch Malone, Post 9612; Jack McDonald, Post 11447; Junior Past Department Commander Paul Gasperson.  District VII Commander B.K. Hubbard and Post 2485 Cemetery Maintenance Supervisor Ed Rubio conducted the briefing.  The group was invited to a walking tour of the cemetery after the breakfast/briefing.

 - On 10 December, Post 285 hosted a Social in honor of VFW National Senior Vice Commander Ray Sisk; Marcus Butler; VFW District 16 National Council Member; and Gary Kurpius, Commander, Department for Alaska (Post 10221).  In attendance were District VII Commander B.K. Hubbard; Senior Vice Commander Tim Aukshun;  Junior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz (Post 2485 Commander); Department of Pacific Areas Commander Bill Wichmann; Department Senior Vice Commander Dick Keeley; District III Commander Bob Henault; District IV Commander Orville Humfleet; Junior Past Department Commander Paul Gasperson; and  members of Posts 9612, 11447, 727, 10216.  Numerous wives, friends and significant others were also present.

 - District VII Commander B.K. Hubbard attended the District V Meeting in Pattaya Beach, Thailand.

 - On 26 January, Post 2485 fielded a team in the Australia Day Fiesta Curry Cook-Off.  The team was captained by Post 2485 Canteen Manager Mike Harrington.  The Post 2485 Team took Second Place in the Curry Cook-Off.

 - On 6 February, Commander B.K. Hubbard, Junior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz, District officers and Posts attended the Post 124 Fun Day held at the Safari Lodge, Baguio.  Earlier in the Day District Comrades participated in the Post 124 Golf Tournament.

 - On 7 February, Commander B.K. Hubbard, Junior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz, members of Post 2485, 9892 and 124 visited the Heinz Woelke Blind School in Baguio.  Past Department Commander and All Star Grand Commander Emory Russell was included in the attendees.

 - The District VII Quarterly meeting was held a the Safari Lodge on 7 February.  Attendance included  Commander B.K. Hubbard, Senior Vice Commander Tim Aukshun, Junior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz, District officers, and Posts.

 - District VII Senior Vice Commander Tim Aukshun (Commander, Post 9892) and Junior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz (Post 2485 Commander) attended the 9^th Barrio Barretto Beach Bash on 14 - 16 February. The Beach Bash was sponsored by Post 11447/Pup Tent 11.  All District VII Posts and Pup Tents were represented.

 - Young Mr Travis Meyer, a student a International School Manila, the Post 2485/District VII winner in the Youth Essay Contest also won at the Department level and went on to represent the Department at the National VFW Youth Essay Contest.  In the National competition he won fifth place.  He will receive the John F. Gwizdak $3,000.00 US Saving Bond Award.

 - On 21 March, in a presentation at Faith Academy, Manila Commander B.K. Hubbard presented Mr Christopher Stableton, the Post 2485/District VII VOD winner a District VII plaque and $100.

 - On 2 April, District VII Commander B.K. Hubbard, Post 2485 members Commander Jerry Prinz, Senior Vice Commander Buddy McGuire, Junior Vice Commander Al Mitchell and Clark Cemetery Maintenance Supervisor Ed Rubio attended a Memorial Ceremony to Commemorate the 60^th Anniversary of the Battle of Bataan.  The ceremony was held at the Manila American Cemetery.  Also in attendance were Senator Daniel Inouye, Hawaii; Senator Ted Stevens, Alaska; Us. Ambassador Francis J. Ricciardone and members of the Battling Bastards of Bataan and approximately 15 survivors of the Death March.

 - District VII Commander B.K. Hubbard and Comrade Ken Schaefer, Post 2485, attended the Fleet Reserve Association (FRA) Frolics (yearly fund raiser) in San Antonio, Zambales on 5 April.

 - On 7 April,  District VII Commander B.K. Hubbard attended the Bataan Death March Memorial sponsored by the Battling Bastards of Bataan.  Post 2485 member Barry Barker (Head of VA Regional Office, Manila) was also present.  The Memorial was held at the Capas National Shrine, Capas, Tarlac.

 - Post 2485 held the 3^rd Annual VFW Death March Memorial at the Capas National Shrine on 9 April.  District VII Commander B.K. Hubbard, Post 2485 members and members from American Legion Post 94, American Legion Post 123, RSL, Shrine Oasis, DAV, SFA, Vietnam Veterans and the Veterans Federation of the Philippines were present.  Post 2485 member Dick Jones (Superintendent, American Cemetery) was also present.  LCOL Christian, USA, JUSTMAG Philippines represented the U.S. Embassy. 

 - Post 2485 and the District presented Youth Essay Awards to students at International School, Manila on 11 April.  2485 Commander Jerry Prinz presented the Post Youth Essay winner, Mr Travis Meyer, a Youth Essay back pack and $100.  District VII Commander B.K. Hubbard presented young Mr Meyer with a District VII plaque and $100.  Commander Jerry Prinz presented second place winner Kimberly Sine with a Youth Essay fanny pack, and $75.  The following students received a Youth Essay fanny pack James Forbe, Phoebe Baker, Serena Roehe, Melanie Herrmann, Jinsoo Kim, Janiea Tan, Geraldine Snits, Heather Was, Kristen Frilcsen and Kristen Sinker.  Senior Vice Commander Buddy McGuire (Commander elect), Junior Vice Commander Al Mitchell and Comrade Ron Barker were in attendance.

 - On 16 April, Post and District members attended a luncheon in honor of in honor of Secretary Anthony J. Principi, Department of Veterans Affairs.   The luncheon was sponsored by Veterans Federation of the Philippines and held at the Manila Hotel.  Past All American District VII Commander Kenneth Schaefer, representing District VII Commander B.K. Hubbard, delivered remarks pertaining to Veterans rights and the Clark Cemetery.  Post 2485 Junior Vice Commander Al Mitchell and Comrades Ron Barker and John Welsh also attended.

 - On 16 April, Post and District members were invited by U.S. Ambassador Francis J. Ricciardone to a  reception in honor of Secretary Anthony J. Principi, Veterans Affairs.  The reception was held at the Ambassador’s residence in Manila.  VFW attendance included  District VII Commander B.K. Hubbard Post 2485 Commander Jerry Prinz, Post 2485 Senior Vice Commander (Commander elect) Buddy McGuire, Post 9892 Commander Tim Aukshun, Department Chief of Staff Emory Russell and Department Service Officer Cecil Johnson.

 - The District VII Quarterly meeting was held at Post 9892, La Union on 25 April.  Attendance included  Commander B.K. Hubbard, Senior Vice Commander Tim Aukshun, Junior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz, District officers, and Posts.  Commander Bill Wichmann and Senior Vice Commander Dick Keeley, Department of Pacif Areas; Grand Pacific Senior Vice Commander Butch Malone were also in attendance.

 - The Returned & Services League (RSL) of Australia, Angeles City Sub Branch, held their annual ANZAC Day Observance at the Clark Cemetery on 25 April.  Approximately 62 area Veterans and Supporters, including District VII members,  were in attendance. The Post 2485 Cemetery Crew supported the Observance at the cemetery.

 - District VII members, who attended the District VII meeting, attended the ANZAC Day Observation at the Coconut Grove Resort , La Union.  District VII Commander B.K. Hubbard, representing the VFW, delivered an address.  A traditional game of Two-Up was held after the ANZAC Day Observance.

 - District officers and Posts attended Memorial Day services at the Clark Cemetery.  Memorial Day services were conducted by American Legion Post 123.  Support at the Cemetery were provided by the Post 2485 Cemetery Crew.

 - Junior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz and officers from Post 2485 attended Memorial Day services at the American Cemetery, Manila. 

 - Commander B.K. Hubbard, Senior Vice Commander Tim Aukshun, Junior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz and District Posts attended the Department of Pacific Areas Convention at Pattaya Beach, Thailand, 17-21 June.  The following awards were presented at the Department Convention Business session:

   *  National Recognition Award, Outstanding Post Community Service Program Activities  

       Post 2485

       Post 9892

       Post 11447

   *  National Recognition Award, Outstanding Post Americanism Activities Program Activities

       Post 124

       Post 2485

       Post 9892

   *  National Recognition Award, Outstanding Post Youth Activities Program Activities

       Post 124

       Post 2485

       Post 9892

       Post 11447

   *  National Recognition Award, Outstanding Post Safety Activities Program Activities

       Post 124

       Post 2485

       Post 9892

       Post 11447

   *  Outstanding Post Voice of Democracy Award/Outstanding Post Youth Essay Award

       Post 124

       Post 2485

       Post 9892

       Post 11447

   *  Outstanding Post WEB Site

       Post 11447

   *  National Community Service Award

       Post 2485

   *  District VII received a Department Certificate of Appreciation for achieving 100% in membership.

   *  District VII Commander B.K. Hubbard received a Department Certificate of Appreciation for the District achieving 100% in membership.

 - At the Department Installation/Awards Banquet the Posts received the following awards:

   *  Non-VFW Outstanding Supporter to the VFW - Brian Usher, sponsored by Post 2485

   *  Outstanding  Department Community Activities Chairman - Joe Carsley, Post 2485

   *  Outstanding  Department Surgeon - Cecil “Doc” Johnson, Post 2485

   *  Outstanding  Department Adjutant - Ken Schaefer, Post 2485

   *  Outstanding Department Community Service Post, Post 2485

   *  Outstanding Department Citizenship Post, Post 2485

 

2002 - 2003

Commander:  Tim Aukshun, Post 9892

Senior Vice Commander:  Jerry Prinz, Post 2485

Junior Vice Commander:  Gene Gann, Post 11447                       

 - On 3 July, Post 11447 hosted the Quarterly District VII Meeting at 11447 Post Home in Barrio Barretto.  District officers and District Post members attended.

 - District officers and Posts attended the 4^th of July celebration of Post 11447 in Barrio Barretto.

 - On 22 October, Senior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz attended the dedication of the Bataan Death March Marker at Death March KM19.  This marker is sponsored by the General MacArthur Honor Guard Association.

 - On 22 October, Post 2485 Commander Buddy McGuire, District VII Senior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz and seven 2485 members attended a dedication of the Bataan Death March Marker at KM 19.  This marker was sponsored by the General MacArthur Honor Guard Association, who requested Post 2485 for assistance in the dedication.  Members of the Filipino-American Memorial Endowment (FAME) were also in attendance.

 - Senior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz attended at Social at Post 2485 for the General MacArthur Honor Guard Association.

 - On 10 November, Post 2485 hosted the Quarterly District VII Meeting at the 2485 Post Home in Angeles City.  District officers and District Post members attended.

 - Commander Tim Aukshun, Senior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz, Junior Vice Commander Gene Gann and District officers and District Posts attended the Veterans Day Observance at the Clark Cemetery.  The Observance was attended by numerous Veterans groups, (American, Australian and Filipino) from Angeles City, Barrio Barretto, La Union and Baguio areas

 - After Veterans Day at the Clark Cemetery,  Commander Tim Aukshun, Senior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz and District officers and Posts joined Comrades and Cooties at the Veterans Day Picnic, held at the Post 2485 Post Home.

 - District VII Commander Tim Aukshun, Senior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz, Junior Vice Commander Gene Gann and District officers and Posts attended the 11^th Annual Chili Cook-Off.  The Cook-Off was sponsored by Post 9892/Pup Tent 7 and held at the Bali Hai Beach Resort on 30 November.  All District VII Posts and Pup Tents were represented by Chili Teams and contestants in Miss Chili Pepper contest.  VFW Post 124, Baguio, won first place in the Chili Contest.

 - District VII Commander Tim Aukshun, Senior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz, Junior Vice Commander Gene Gann and  District officers attended the Department Mid Term CofA at Barrio Barretto on 8 December.  All District Posts were represented.  National and Department visitors included National VFW Senior Vice Commander Ed Banas, District 16 Council Member Frank Lamson, and National VFW Inspector General Darrel Bencken. The Department was represented by Department of Pacific Areas Commander Dick Keeley and his staff.  The Mid Term was hosted by Post 11447/Pup Tent 11. 

 - Post 2485 Commander Buddy McGuire and Post members hosted a working breakfast/briefing on the Clark Cemetery on 9 December.  After the breakfast/briefing all attendees were invited to a walking tour of the cemetery.

 - On 9 December, Post 2485 hosted a Social for visiting officers from National, National VFW Senior Vice Commander Ed Banas, District 16 Council Member Frank Lamson, and National VFW Inspector General Darrel Bencken.  District VII Senior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz, Department of Pacific Areas Commander Dick Keeley, Past All American District VII and Department Commander Emory Russell; Past All American District VII Commander Ken Schaefer, Past All American Department Commander Bill Wichmann, District IV Commander Orville Humfleet, Post 2485 Post Commander Buddy Mcguire and approximately fifty 2485 members were in attendance.  National Senior Vice Commander Banas presented Post 2485 with a National VFW check for $3500 to be put toward care and maintenance of the Clark Cemetery.

 - On 6 February, Post 124 hosted the Quarterly District VII Meeting at 124 Post Home (Safari Lodge) in Baguio.  District officers and District Post members attended.

 - Senior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz, Junior Vice Commander Gene Gann, District officers and members of the District Posts supported the Post 11447 Barrio Beach Bash on 21-23 February.  The Beach Bash is sponsored by Post 11447 and Kuripots - Pup Tent 11.

 - The March 2003 issue of the VFW Magazine contained an article on the Post 2485.  The article was about the Post having over 1100 Life Members and being the largest overseas Post (1190).

 - On 28 March, Commander Tim Aukshun presented District VII Voice of Democracy (VOD) winner Miss Patricia Magcalas with a District VII VOD Plaque and a check for $100.  Miss Magcalas is a student at International School of Angeles City and was sponsored by Post 2485.

 - Post 2485 sponsored a “Coalition Day” in recognition of the Coalition Forces currently fighting in Iraq.  This recognition day was held at the Ponderosa Hotel, Angeles City on 18 April. 

District VII Senior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz, Posts member from 2485 and 11447 were present also with Department of Pacific Area Commander Dick Keeley, Department Junior Vice Commander Barney Pastel and Grand Commander B.K. Hubbard.  Approximately 150 personnel were present and organizations represented included, the VFW Post 2485, Pup Tent 15, VFW Post 11447, Pup Tent 11, Post 9612, Pup Tent 1, RSL, Beagles, American Legion Post 123, American Legion Post 10, SFA, Vietnam Veterans, DAV, and representatives from both the British and Australian Embassies.

 - The Department of Pacific Areas announced All State Selections on 21 April with the following results for District VII:

  * All State District - District VII (Commander Tim Aukshun)

  * All State Post - Post 2485 (Commander Buddy McGuire)

  * All State Post - Post 9892 (Commander Emory Russell)

  * All State Quartermaster - Post 11447 (Post Quartermaster Lee Hodges)

 - On 24 April, Post 9892 hosted the Quarterly District VII Meeting at the 9892 Post Home in La Union.  District officers and District Posts members attended.  District VII Membership at 104%.

Past All American District VII Commander Ken Schaefer installed the District officer for the 2003 - 2004 year.

 - District VII Commander Tim Aukshun was elected as Trustee of the John Randall Scholarship Fund and Senior Vice Commander Jerry Prinz (Commander elect) was elected as the Alternate.

 - The Returned & Services League (RSL) of Australia, Angeles City Sub Branch, held their annual ANZAC Day Observance at the Clark Cemetery on 25 April.  Approximately 70 area Veterans and Supporters, including District VII members, were in attendance. The Post 2485 Cemetery Crew supported the Observance at the cemetery.

 - District VII members attended the ANZAC Day Observation at the Coconut Grove Resort , La Union.  Lee Smith from La Union and Post 9892 Commander Emory Russell were guest speakers.  District VII Commander Tim Aukshun laid a wreath made from VFW Buddy Poppies.  District VII Commander (elect) Jerry Prinz, Grand Commander B.K. Hubbard and approximately 15 VFW members representing District Posts were present.  A traditional game of Two-Up was held after the ANZAC Day Observance.

 

2003 - 2004

Commander:  Jerry Prinz, Post 2485

Senior Vice Commander:  Gene Gann, Post 11447

Junior Vice Commander:  Herman Francisco. Post 124

 Submitted by:  (Signed) B.K. Hubbard  District VII Historian

1 May 2003

 Approved by:   (Signed) Tim Aukshun