May 15, 2010

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHAPTER

VIETNAM HELICOPTER PILOTS ASSOCIATION

President Gary Hurelle called the meeting to order at 1015 at American Legion Post Number 1. Present were Hal Bergdahl, Rick Beaver,  Walt Wise, John Hargleroad, Brian Wold, Greg Mann, Robert Brightwell, Fred Lyssy, Brian Foote and yours truly Ed Fickes, who acted as secretary. Brightwell paid or repaid his 2010 dues, which Fickes will deposit on Monday.

Approval of April minutes was motioned by Mann – 2^nd by Wold …unanimous.

Approval of Treasurer’s Report was motioned by Fickes – 2^nd by Wise…unanimous. Fickes added he received a check not listed for the 2010-11 Museum Tags and his purchase of cookies, water and coffee cups for last months Honor Flight ‘Welcome Home’. He mentioned and it was agreed by all that it went extremely well and all who attended and helped greet the WWII Vets were rewarded by the experience. The September Honor Flight date has been set and will be for a Sunday to D.C. and Monday return to avoid the weekend crowds at the WWII Memorial. Also Stan Cass is taking applications for next April’s trip from veterans.

A short discussion of the cockpit installation was held and an excellently detailed ½ scale model assembled by Bergdahl (thankyou), was used to determine that size will probably require the cockpit to be placed forward in the trailer at the bar-end/window side to avoid traffic congestion. Email from Bill Robie, who was unable to attend detailed his ability to: Get the following -  seat  tracks, seat belt floor attachment castings, and pedal adjustment knob for $50…  Air speed indicator,  and possibly a course indicator – $20 each. Membership voted to authorize Robie to obtain all these items for the project. Further Robie mentioned that Chip Parfet leased the area where we now have the trailer stored to a third party.  We need to move the trailer by the end of May.  Chip has offered a replacement location about 500’ further east, along his rear property line, just to the west of his back shop building and just south of the irrigation ditch and Hwy 58.   The location is pretty well visually blocked from 8^th St. by 2 buildings, but is not fenced.  We can get electrical power from his shop building at no cost. Membership voted to have Robie take Mr. Parfet up on his offer – at least for the short run. Also Robie said he may be able to find someone in the Golden area with a tractor cab unit to move the trailer and is here asked to do so – if Robie has a problem locating a tractor/driver he is to contact Fickes who will find one. Robie is to contact Beaver or Hurelle to help supervise the relocation.

Also Robie is asked to find a Golden location (Buffalo Rose or Blue Canyon) for the June meeting and invite Chip Parfet for a free lunch and a thank you for his help over the years. After the meeting weather permitting, Beaver would like to have a work session at the new Museum location.

Beaver asked the membership to authorize Fickes to purchase a second ceiling vent fan for the Museum, if the leak can’t be fixed in the last original vent – membership approved. Other discussion on the ‘technical aspects” of the Museum/Cockpit were held after the meeting adjourned.

Email from Don Rice concerning confirmation of the August 14^th date for the Chapter BBQ at the Leprino’s Hanger at Metro/Jeffco Airport was reviewed and the Chapter voted to hold the BBQ and August Meeting on that date. Greg Mann will attempt to contact other combat helicopter crewmembers and invite them to attend. Chapter members and all others will be asked to RSVP to Greg Mann, g_e_mann@yahoo.com   with the number of family and friends attending, as we believe 75 – 80 is the maximum number we can serve and handle at the hanger. Members and guests will have preference and be asked to bring a covered dish, side or desert to share…as well as their beverages of choice (just as at past BBQ’s)…Any invitees will be asked to only bring their interest in conversing with a group of old Vietnam Helicopter Pilots and sharing stories and good times. The Chapter will cover the costs related to the meat, basic BBQ accompaniments, condiments, extra beverages, soda and water.  I believe the Start time is the same, food service beginning at 1100hrs – 1200. A short membership meeting will be held at some point. Final details on the BBQ will be available after the June meeting.

Meeting was adjourned at 1130…Most members stayed, some to discuss the Museum, most BS and tell a few lies over a drink or two.

Respectfully Submitted,

Ed Fickes Substitute Secretary

17 APRIL 2010

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHAPTER

VIETNAM HELICOPTER PILOTS ASSOCIATION

President Gary Hurelle called the meeting to order at 10:35 am at The Blue Canyon Grill on 13^th and Washington Streets in Golden, Colorado.

Members Present: Gary Hurelle, Walt Wise, Ed Fickes, Bill Robie, Bill  McPherson, John Grauff, John Hargleroad, Rick Beaver, Brian Wold, Hal Bergdahl, Phil Lanphier, Greg Mann and Jim McNamee.

Introductions: Because we had a new member (Bill McPherson from Cripple Creek) in attendance, Gary asked everyone to introduce themselves and state their Vietnam tour details.

The minutes of the March meeting, prepared by Ed Fickes, were approved (Walt Wise moved, Rick Beaver seconded).  The Treasurer’s Report for April was approved (Ed Fickes moved, Rick Beaver seconded).

Helicopter War Museum (HWM): Rick Beaver was designated as chairman of the cockpit display build.  His main helpers probably will be Jerry Marshall, Bill Robie, and Hal Bergdahl, although everyone is encouraged to help whenever and however they can.  The current status is that it is still in the design phase, although we have most of the parts necessary.  The big news is that Bill McPherson donated his Huey seat (which he sat in most nights on his deck and smoked a cigar and sipped a single malt scotch), to the museum to replace the damaged one we currently have (see below).  Thank you, Bill.  Also, John Hargleroad displayed and donated several TM’s and other documents to the museum.  Thank you, John.

Current Status:  Once the design is completed, which should be soon with Bill Robie and Hal Bergdahl working with Rick on it, Jerry Marshall, Bill, and Rick will build the display.

Missing museum instruments: Bill Robie mentioned that we still need the following instruments for the display:

Vertical velocity indicator

Radio compass

Torquemeter

OMNI indicator

Airspeed indicator

Clock

If any members have any of these instruments that they would be willing to loan or donate to the museum, or if they know where we can get any of them, please get in touch with Bill.

Cripple Creek Armed Forces Appreciation Day: Gary asked Bill McPherson to give an update on what is happening with regard to the August celebration in Cripple Creek.  As background, Cripple Creek has held an Armed Forces Appreciation Day for several years to honor veterans and current service members in Colorado.  Our chapter has displayed the museum at the celebration for the last 2 years, thanks to the generosity of the city, which has paid for the museum’s transportation expenses and lodging for chapter members who accompanied it.  It was a great event for the museum, and for those of us who attended.

Draft meeting minutes, 17 April 2010 (continued)

Unfortunately, the city has elected new leadership, and they have decided to replace the tribute to the armed forces with a motorcycle rally, which will take place August 20^th to the 22^nd.  Because of this development, we will not be displaying the museum.

As a result of these developments, Bill has resigned as the City Manager.  However, the city council asked Bill, who served 30 years in the Army, to serve as military liaison.  He accepted, and is planning a ceremony at the city’s veterans’ memorial on August 22^nd.at 1300.  The ceremony will feature a speech by Fort Carson’s Commanding General along with other events.  Several of the members present expressed interest in attending, and Bill said he would keep us posted about the details.

Gary asked if there was anything that we, as a chapter, could do about the demise of the armed forces tribute.  Bill stated that his wife is the owner, publisher, and editor of the Cripple Creek newspaper (“The Gold Rush Newspaper”), and stated that we could write to the paper and express our thoughts.  Bill Robie moved that we send a letter to the editor, and Ed Fickes seconded the motion.  The motion passed, with the caveat that we submit the article to appear in the paper after the August event.  The chapter secretary will draft the letter.  However, members were encouraged to write their own letters prior to the event if they desired.

Helicopter War Museum Venues: As of now, we don’t have any venues set up for the museum this year.  That is good in a way, because we are working on the cockpit display.  However, that shouldn’t take all summer to complete, and we need to try to set up some venues later this summer and fall.  Bill Robie suggested that members should be alert for possible venues and contact Ed Fickes (Operations Officer) or Jim McNamee (Curator) if they have any suggestions.  Jim also stated that we should try to arrange more showings at schools because education about the Vietnam War is one of our main purposes for the museum.

Message about AAAA from member Charles Bogle: On a related note, Jim mentioned that he had heard from member Charles Bogle, who mentioned that he is working with the Pikes Peak Chapter of AAAA to reactivate that chapter. He also stated that he was “… hoping we can have an open house at Fort Carson this summer that may include the airfield.   More information will be provided as it becomes available.  It would be good to touch and feel some of the new equipment and simulators. The (Helicopter War) museum might be of real interest to some of the unit members and families.  Vietnam is just history to these ‘kids.’   I (Chuck) sent a message suggesting renewals/new AAAA memberships to RMCVHPA members, but never saw any distribution. For those that who might be interested, AAAA has been successful in getting a number of the NG folks from Buckley as members.  There should be some opportunities for some intra generational mutual benefits.”   Charles also stated that AAAA renewals can be made through the AAAA website.

Tricare: Walt Wise mentioned that he was keeping up with the budget process in Washington, and it looked as it Tricare benefits would not be affected this budget cycle.  However, he said that it was a real possibility that they would be targeted in the future, and that members should stay abreast of developments.

Draft meeting minutes, 17 April 2010 (continued)

Honor Flight Reception: Ed gave an update on the Honor Flight Reception for WWII vets returning from a visit to the WWII Memorial in D.C. scheduled for April 24^th at 8:00 pm.  He said

that it would be held at the Signature Flight Facility at DIA and that he would send out directions and a reminder on the RMCVHPA Chat Page.  He said that he would arrange for coffee and doughnuts, but that the music and other details were being covered by others.  He said all that members had to do was show up to meet and greet.  He said that members who have participated in the past have had an enjoyable time, and that the veterans were very appreciative.

VHPA Reunion: Rick stated that he is arranging a dinner for Chapter members and guests on Saturday night during the reunion on Coronado Island.  The dinner, suggested by Mike Law at a restaurant suggested by member Rex Gooch, is shaping up to be very well attended.  You probably have seen the discussions on the Chat Page.  Rick is compiling a list of attendees and would like anyone who is interested in attending to let him know.  The latest he can accept reservations is on the Thursday of the reunion.

August BBQ: Ed discussed the ongoing plans for an August BBQ for chapter members and also guests from other helicopter flight crew organizations at the Leprino Aviation Hanger at the Rocky Mountain Regional Airport.  He stated that the chapter’s master BBQ’er, Don Rice, wasn’t sure which Saturday in August he could get off to do the cooking (he is a pilot for Leprino Aviation), but that the chapter should pick a date and he would see what he could do.  The members present decided on August 14^th, even though it was 1 week before the regular meeting date, because it would be more convenient for members who wanted to attend the Cripple Creek ceremony (see above).  Ed said that he would contact Don and see if that date would work for him.

The members present also discussed who would be invited and how, and who would pay for the event.  They decided that we should form a planning committee (Bill Robie and Ed Fickes volunteered to work on it) to identify organizations comprising military combat helicopter crews of any war and send them invitations.  The invitations would ask for RSVPs with numbers planning to attend for our planning purposes.  The members decided that chapter members would be charged a nominal fee to help cover expenses, and that any excess expenses would be paid for out of the General Fund.  The BBQ would be free for guests from other organizations.  Greg Mann agreed to help identify the organizations that we should invite.  If anyone has any knowledge of local organizations involving combat helicopter crews, they should contact Bill or Greg.

Last Man Standing Organization?: The discussion about the BBQ led to a brief discussion about expanding our organization membership to include, at the minimum, any combat helicopter pilots.  This discussion will be ongoing.  Bill McPherson said that he also belongs to the North Carolina Chapter, and their membership is open to all military helicopter pilots.

Clothing Sales: Jim stated that he went by our clothing supplier’s location (River Graphics) and it was empty.  He tried to call them, but did not get an answer.  One of the members stated that Greg McMahon knew a clothing supplier/embroiderer that may be able to help us.  (Note: after the meeting, River Graphics returned Jim’s call.  They changed their location to 4880 E Pacific Place, near I-25 and Evans.  Jim will try to get a catalog and take orders for clothing on May 15^th.)

Elections: Jim mentioned that we had one nominee each for president and vice president, but none for secretary/treasurer.  After discussion, the president/vice president nominees from the last meeting switched, with Walt Wise becoming the president nominee and Phil Lanphier the vice

Draft meeting minutes, 17 April 2010 (continued)

president nominee.  Rick Beaver then nominated Jim McNamee as secretary/treasurer, and Ed Fickes seconded it.  Nominations for all three positions are still being accepted.  The election will be held at the June meeting, and the new officers will assume their posts in July.

Mullen High School Donation: Phil Lanphier mentioned that the Mullen High School Parents Club donated $200 to the Helicopter War Museum for our participation in the memorial for Vietnam War Medal of Honor winner helicopter pilot CPT Jon Swanson at Mullen HS in October 2009.  We will send a letter of appreciation to them.

Next Meeting: The May meeting will be at 10:00 am on May 15^th at the American Legion Post No. 1 on I-25 and Yale.

Gary adjourned the meeting at 12:10

Submitted by Jim McNamee, Secretary/Treasurer

Post Meeting Activities:

Lunch after meeting: Most of the members stayed for lunch after the meeting.  It should be noted that the Blue Canyon Grill went above and beyond for us, dedicating a server for the entire meeting as well as letting us use the basement bar area for the meeting.

Helicopter War Museum Visit and Donations: After the meeting and lunch, several members (Bill McPherson, John Hargleroad, Gary Hurelle, Ed Fickes, Bill Robie, Hal Bergdahl, Phil Lanphier, and Jim McNamee) met at the museum’s storage site to accept Bill M’s and John’s donations to the museum and have a toddy to toast them.

March 20, 2010

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHAPTER

VIETNAM HELICOPTER PILOTS ASSOCIATION

President Gary Hurelle called the meeting to order at 1015 at American Legion Post Number 1. Present were Hal Bergdahl, Rick Beaver, Doug Neil, Bill Robie, Walt Wise, John Hargleroad, Jerry Marshall, Greg Mann, Phil Lanphier, John Grauff, Mike Law and yours truly Ed Fickes, who acted as secretary.

Minutes and Treasurer’s Report. February meeting minutes were approved (with the correction that Walt Wise is Vice President). In the absence of Treasurer, Jim McNamee,  both the February and March Treasurer’s reports where approved as submitted by Jim in advance of the meeting. Dues of $20 were collected from Greg Mann and will be deposited by Fickes.

Business and Committee Reports:

● Rick Beaver reported on last week’s meeting of the Museum Improvement Committee and outlined the phases of construction and installation of the pilot’s and mock cockpit, cabinets and jump seat – after much discussion and input, all were asked to watch the yahoo site for information concerning needs and wants as the plans develop.

●Walt Wise gave an update on the fact that the new healthcare bill should not affect those on Tri-care also reminded all that if they do not have a VA Service agent working on their behalf – they should get one soon.

●Ed Fickes reported on the summer “Open House BBQ” and it was decided to give Don Rice August 14^th and 21^st as possible dates for the picnic at Leprino’s Hanger at Jeffco/Metro Airport. Once Don has selected best date for him – plans will be developed as to how best invite others associated with [‘Combat’, ‘Helicopter’, ‘Service’]. Mann volunteered to handle this task and it will include an RSVP requirement, as well as a limit on number of guests/kids that non-members can bring (limited by totals we can serve and feed – to be set by Don Rice). Hopefully the Museum improvements will be well along and it can be setup at Leprino’s. Depending on availability – we may or not have flying or static display helicopters available. We would hope to obtain the RSVPs and charge only members and accept donations from other attendees.

●Ed Fickes also reported about feedback from Bill McPherson in Cripple Creek concerning this year’s event and possibility of getting some floor cleats for future jump seat installation in the Museum. Bill’s response to Fickes’ inquiry was that those recently elected in Cripple Creek were no longer veteran friendly and were going to hold a motorcycle rally instead. McPherson has resigned as City Manager, but is still in possession of his UH-1M. He has offered, and members voted to accept, his donation of his personal pilot’s seat for use in the Museum – members also voted to hold the April 17^th meeting in Golden (most likely at the Buffalo Rose – Robie will confirm) to accept delivery from Bill at the Museum. Members authorized Fickes to purchase 2 bottles of single malt scotch for the presentation – one for Bill and one to share.

●Ed Fickes reminded all of the “Honor Flight – Welcome Home” the chapter will host at Signature Flight Hanger on Saturday April 24^th –expected time is 2000hrs, details will follow. Members authorized the purchase of water, cookies, etc for this event. Also the Evans, CO VFW will hold a benefit all you can eat breakfast to benefit the Honor Flight on Sunday March 28^th -0830-1100 – Presentation of plaque to Bill Brewster, who has hauled the Museum to venues for the past 5-6 years, will be made – more info to follow.

●Gary Hurelle reminded of elections at the June meeting, which resulted in tendering of several nominations: Phil Lanphier/President and Walt Wise/VP- more nominations welcomed at future meetings. ●Meeting was adjourned at 1145.

Respectfully submitted,

Ed Fickes, Acting Secretary

February 20, 2010

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHAPTER

VIETNAM HELICOPTER PILOTS ASSOCIATION

President Elect Walt Wise called the meeting to order at 1010 at American Legion Post Number 1. Present were Hal Bergdahl, Rick Beaver, Doug Niel, Bill Robie, Bob Simms, John Hargleroad and yours truly Ed Fickes, who acted as secretary.

Minutes and Treasurer’s Report. January meeting minutes were approved as posted on the website. In the absence of Tres – Jim McNamee, there was no Treasurer’s report. Dues of $20 were collected from Hal Bergdahl…Rick Beaver purchased a VHPA polo shirt of $18 and made a $2.00 donation and $2.00 in ‘welcome home’ bracelet sales at Legion Post #1 were accounted for and will be deposited by Ed Fickes next week along with a check for at model sale at the Greeley Airport.

Walt reminded all that if they do not have a VA Service agent working on their behalf – they should get one soon…also that he expect the government to be looking at VA and retired military benefits and healthcare as a way to make their programs work.

A long discussion was had on membership – more directly new/renewed membership and how we can continue to grow. The thought being we could become more inclusive and not limited as currently to VN pilot’s and crewmembers. The general consensus was that we should hold a summer “Open House”, BBQ if you will and invite all those associated with [‘Combat’, ‘Helicopter’, ‘Service’], hereafter called the “Associated Group’…It was suggested that Contact be made to Don Rice as to the date and availability of the Leprino Hanger for this. (Ed Fickes will contact Don). Once a date has been set and selected – invites will be made to all members of organizations and individuals, who would qualify to become part  of the “Associated Group” and their spouses. We would hope to obtain RSVP’s for such an event and charge only members and accept donations from other attendees.

Helicopter War Museum Committee. Robie reminded all that the HWM improvement committee is scheduled to meet March 11^th in Golden…notice to be sent out via yahoo group.

Bill Robie updated on the status of the future of ‘Model Sales’, as a source of fund raising…with the new ownership of the model distributorship the costs of model to us may become prohibited and/or we may be able to pre-purchase ‘lots’ of models, say 25 – 50 at a cost allowing us to resell at a respectable profit.

Mention was made of the expense of certain events at the upcoming 2010 VHPA Reunion in San Diego – regardless a show of hands indicated 7 of the 8 members present plan to attend.

The March 20^th meeting will be held at the American Legion Post #1 at I-25 & Yale.

The meeting was adjourned at 1115.

Respectfully submitted,

Ed Fickes, Acting Secretary

16 JANUARY 2010

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHAPTER

VIETNAM HELICOPTER PILOTS ASSOCIATION

President Gary Hurelle called the meeting to order at 10:00 am at American Legion Post No.1.

Members Present: Gary Hurelle, Walt Wise, Ed Fickes, John Grauff, Doug Neil, Fred Lyssy, John Hargleroad, Jerry Marshall, Rick Beaver, Phil Lanphier, Pat Mahany, Bob Simms (new member), Jeff Roy (guest speaker and new member) and Jim McNamee.

The minutes of the November meeting were approved (Walt Wise moved, Ed Fickes seconded).  The Treasurer’s Reports for December and January were approved (Ed Fickes moved, Walt Wise seconded).

Helicopter War Museum (HWM): Rick Beaver reported that he and a couple of other members worked on the museum recently and made some minor repairs, including installing a new battery.  He also stated that he and Jerry Marshall were going to get together soon to design the cockpit display, and that work on it would start when the weather is warmer, probably in April.

Holiday Parties: Gary mentioned the two holiday parties hosted by chapter members John Grauff (on December 5^th) and Greg Mann (on December 12^th).  He thanked John and Greg for the parties and expressed the hope that they would do it again next year.

Update on “Children” in the Military: Pat Mahany mentioned that his son, an Army Helicopter Pilot stationed in Iraq, recently was promoted to CW3.  He also was awarded his second Air Medal with “V.”  Jim McNamee reported that one of his sons, an Army Quartermaster Corps First Lieutenant, is back in Baumholder, Germany following a 14-month tour in Iraq.  His other son, an F-16 pilot, recently finished his second tour in Iraq and is being transferred to Korea.

Fort Logan Walkway Plaque: Gary asked members if they were still in favor of possibly putting a plaque or monument commemorating the chapter at the Fort Logan National Military Cemetery.  The members agreed to have him look into the matter by acclamation.

VHPA Reunion: Jim McNamee mentioned the upcoming reunion, which will be held in July at the Marriott Hotel in the San Diego Harbor area.  Jim said that the registration form was on the VHPA website, but that the details for the agenda weren’t available yet.  (Note—Mike Law provided a detailed description of the activities on the chapter chat page on January 21^st.  Thanks Mike.  The information is now available on the VHPA website as well, and online registration should be available by the end of January.)  About one half of the members present indicated that they planned to attend.

Call for new HWM Curator: Jim asked for a volunteer to step forward to be the new HWM curator.  He has been curator since we started the museum and feels as if it’s time for a new perspective.  He also stated that he travels a lot and cannot devote the time that he would like to improve the museum.  If anyone is interested in assuming the curator position, or you would like more information, please contact Jim at 303-513-0619 or hawk36101@msn.com.

HWM Improvement Committee: Jim stated that it has been a while since the committee met and he would like to have another meeting to discuss museum improvements.  He will try to set up a meeting in late February, after he gets back from visiting his son in Germany.

Draft meeting minutes, 16 January 2010 (continued)

Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH): Walt Wise introduced special guest (and new chapter member) Jeff Roy, the immediate past MOPH National Commander.  Jeff, a helicopter pilot in Vietnam, has spent a considerable amount of time in places such as Congress working for veterans.  He began his discussion by stating that the MOPH is a valuable source for veterans applying for VA benefits, even if they haven’t been awarded the Purple Heart.  He stressed that it was important to have an advocate when filing for VA benefits and that MOPH service officers were among those chartered by congress to represent veterans before the Veterans Administration.  In addition, the MOPH is one of only four organizations that have attorneys that are authorized to represent service members who appeal claim denials in Washington.  There is an MOPH service officer co-located with the VA in Lakewood and one at the VA Hospital in Cheyenne.  The contact information is on the MOPH website at www.purpleheart.org.  A lifetime membership in the MOPH for those who qualify is only $50, and the money supports the MOPH’s efforts on behalf of veterans before Congress and the VA.  Donations also help fund the efforts.

Jeff stated that the MOPH was chartered by Congress as a service officer organization in 1932.  MOPH has 170 service officers in the United States.  These service officers handled over 25,000 new cases last year.  The MOPH computer system is nation wide and any service officer can access your records.  This is important if you are traveling and require VA care.

Jeff said that it is important for veterans to wok with a service officer for another reason—spouses have survivor benefits on claims, and the service officers will help them get the benefits.  Veterans need to execute a Power of Attorney with a service officer so that they can work with survivors.  It is important that veterans register in the VA system even if they don’t have any problems now.

He also mentioned that the service officers are very familiar with the compensation procedures, including those related to Agent Orange exposure.  The service officers keep up with the changes in presumptive disorders and will notify veterans for which they are advocates of any changes in Agent Orange policies, as well as other pertinent information.  Another thing of importance to chapter members—helicopter pilots have been determined to have higher than normal exposure to Agent Orange because of frequent landings and hovering in Agent Orange treated areas.  If you haven’t had an Agent Orange review and evaluation, you need to have one.

Jeff’s closing statement was “There is a big difference in being in the service officer system and not being in the system” in terms of processing time.

A lot of discussion followed about VA benefits, Agent Orange, etc.  The session was very interesting and valuable.  We owe Jeff Roy thanks for taking time from his busy schedule to talk with us (he was going to Washington, D.C. the week following the meeting to meet with members of Congress about veterans’ issues).

Next Meeting: The February meeting will be at 10:00 am on February 20^th at the American Legion Post No on I-25 and Yale.

Gary adjourned the meeting at 11:50.

Submitted by Jim McNamee, Secretary/Treasurer

21 NOVEMBER 2009

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHAPTER

VIETNAM HELICOPTER PILOTS ASSOCIATION

President Gary Hurelle called the meeting to order at 1005 hours at American Legion Post No.1.

Members Present: Gary Hurelle, Walt Wise, Ed Fickes, Brian Foote, Danny O’Connor, John Grauff, Doug Neil, Hal Bergdahl, Tom Landis, Fred Lyssy, Greg McMahon, Greg Mann, Bill Robie, Carl Tafoya (new member), and Jim McNamee.

The minutes of the September and October meetings were approved (Doug Neil moved, Walt Wise seconded.)  The Treasurer’s Reports for October and November were approved. (Ed Fickes moved, Hal Bergdahl seconded.)

Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH): Walt Wise stated that Jeff Roy, the immediate past MOPH Commandant, could not attend the meeting as scheduled because of MOPH duties.  Jeff, a helicopter pilot in Vietnam, was scheduled to attend because he is a great source of information, having spent a considerable amount of time in places such as Congress working for veterans.  The MOPH is very helpful with veterans applying for VA benefits, even if they haven’t been awarded the Purple Heart.  Walt said that Jeff hoped to be able to attend the January or February meeting along with a service officer who could help chapter members file for VA benefits.  Walt and others stressed that it was important to have an advocate when filing for VA benefits.  There is an MOPH service officer co-located with the VA in Lakewood.  Also, Carl Tafoya mentioned that there is one at the VA Hospital in Cheyenne.

Walt also mentioned that if you are 65 years old and select the VA as your primary health care provider, the government will rebate your Part B Medicare payments.  The form is on the VA website.  A lot of discussion followed about VA benefits, Agent Orange, etc.

Bill McPherson’s honorary membership: A member asked if we had offered Bill’s honorary

1-year membership for donating Huey cockpit parts and paying the shipping expenses and Ed stated that he had.  He also submitted Bill’s completed membership application.

Evans VFW Breakfast Fundraiser: Jim McNamee asked Gary if the chapter had sent a thank you note to the Evans VFW for their donations to the Helicopter War Museum (HWM).  The VFW donated $600 that they raised at their August 30^th breakfast to our museum.  They also donated $200 to the museum for our support at the State VFW Convention in June.  The Evans VFW, located at 3501 State Street in Evans, has breakfasts on the first and last Sundays of every month and donates the proceeds to various charities and organizations.  Jim said that he would draft a thank you letter for Gary’s signature.

Chapter Website Use: A member mentioned the inappropriate use of the chapter’s Yahoo chat page for political, religious, and other statements.  Bill Robie reiterated his recent message on the page that “This Yahoo Group was set up to facilitate communication between members of RMC-VHPA for business associated with RMC-VHPA only.  The Group only has value if all members stay with it and don’t unsubscribe due to unnecessary and unwanted e-mail overload.  No politics, religion, jokes, forwards of unoriginal material, and even no patriotic prose and pictures.  There are too many other sites where you can that kind of stuff if you want it.”  The majority of the members present seemed to be in agreement with this policy.

Draft meeting minutes, 21 November 2009 (continued)

HWM Huey Cockpit Project: Gary asked about the planning/construction progress.  Neither of the main construction engineers for the project (Rick Beaver and Jerry Marshall) was present, however, so a general discussion ensued.  We are still missing some instruments, but some of the members said that they might be able to get them if they knew which ones were missing.  Bill Robie said that he would inventory the instruments and compare what we have with the -10 and send out a list.  Some discussion followed about the sequence of events (e.g., building a platform in the HWM for the display, etc.), and Gary said that he would talk with Rick to see about his availability and plans.  If Rick is available, we may start construction in January.  A member also asked about cabinets for displays, and Greg McMahon stated that he may be able to get some.  He will call Rick to discuss this issue.

VA Cookie Party: Gary, who had to miss the last meeting, asked about the status of the annual Christmas party at the VA Hospital.  Ed mentioned that the members decided at the last meeting to skip this year because of scheduling conflicts with the VA Hospital.  Discussion followed about the possibility of having a pig roast at the VA this spring or summer, and Jim agreed to call the VA and discuss it.  There may be a problem because of the new VA policy about not allowing unpackaged food at VA Hospital events.

Holiday Parties: Gary mentioned the two holiday parties being hosted by chapter members John Grauff (on December 5^th) and Greg Mann (on December 12^th).  All members and guests are invited.  John and Greg passed out invitations and directions, which also have been provided on the chapter chat page and in messages from Brian Foote.  Contact John or Greg for further information.

“Welcome Home” Wristbands: Ed talked briefly about the wristbands we have for sale for $2, which have a Vietnam campaign ribbon motif and cost 71 cents apiece.  The proceeds go to the HWM Operating Fund.  He said that he had sold 100 to Larry Frazier at cost (as previously agreed).

Chapter Clothing and Hats: Gary mentioned that Jim had shirts that members had ordered and also hats for sale.  He has extra shirts and hats for sale at very reasonable prices.  Jim also stated that he will get a catalog from River Graphics and start planning another order, including winter jackets if there is enough interest.

VHPA Reunion: Walt mentioned the upcoming reunion, and said it should be a good one.  Several members indicated that they would attend.  Jim said to keep an eye on the VHPA website because registration usually opens in January or February.  The reunion will be held in July at the Marriott in the San Diego harbor area.

Calendars: Greg Mann handed out 2010 VHPARMC calendars and also Air Life calendars.

Next Meetings: As usual, there will be no December meeting (but see the above party notices).  The January meeting will be at 10:00 on January 16^th at either American Legion Post No. 1 or the Buffalo Rose in Golden.  A notice will follow.

Gary adjourned the meeting at 1110 hours.

Submitted by Jim McNamee, Secretary/Treasurer

VIETNAM HELICOPTER PILOTS ASSOCIATION

Meeting Minutes, October 17, 2009

Buffalo Rose, Golden, CO

Meeting called to order at 10:45 am by VP Walt Wise.

10 members in attendance.

1. Treasurer’s report not available.

2. Minutes from previous meeting not available.

3. Phil Lanphier reported that the event at Mullen High School posthumously honoring helicopter pilot and MOH receipient CPT Jon Swanson went very well. The event was held Friday 10/9. Duplicate classes honoring Swanson and discussing the Vietnam War were held, one each in the morning and in the afternoon. Visiting the Museum trailer was included in the event. Chapter members participated in the classes, as well as hosted in the Museum. An estimated 850 students and teachers attended. Ceremonies and recognition of military veterans took place at Friday evening’s football game half-time. The Museum was set up Thursday, and packed up for travel and moved on Saturday to a location in Golden.

4. Many instruments for the Huey cockpit instrument panel were received as a donation from Bill McPherson, Cripple Creek.

Motion made to send a complimentary 1-year RMC-VHPA membership to McPherson as thanks for donation and cost of shipping. Motion seconded and approved unanimously.

5. Flyer for John Grauff’s Christmas Party on 12/05 in Johnstown handed out .

6. Greg Mann offered date options for his annual Christmas Party. Saturday, 12/12, 5:00 pm, was selected.

7. Ed Fickes will check on date availabilities for the traditional VA Hospital cookie party.

8. A thank-you and expense reimbursement was made to donor of the Huey seat, collective, cyclic, and instrument panel.

9. American Legion Post #1 will donate a mannequin as soon as all parts are found.

10. Chapter officers need to provide an updated list of member contact information. Robie to make request for current member information thru Chapter Yahoo Group.

11. Next meeting scheduled for Saturday, 11/21, 10:00 am, at American Legion Post #1. Guest will be Jeff Roy, former National Commander of the Military Order of Purple Heart.

12. Discussion on adding the ½ Huey cockpit to the Museum, plus other upgrades.

Meeting adjourned 11:30 am, followed by lunch at Buffalo Rose.

After lunch, members traveled short distance to Museum trailer location on 8th Street in Golden to inspect and discuss ½ Huey cockpit installation. Protective covers placed on outside trailer tires. Fickes took Huey seat frame to investigate nylon web covering. Robie took cyclic to repair broken grip.

Respectfully submitted, Bill Robie

19 SEPTEMBER 2009

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHAPTER

VIETNAM HELICOPTER PILOTS ASSOCIATION

President Gary Hurelle called the meeting to order at 1010 hours in American Legion Post No.1.

Members Present: Gary Hurelle, Ed Fickes, Brian Foote, Mike Law, John Grauff, John Hargleroad, Walt Winters, Phil Lanphier, Doug Neil, Hal Bergdahl, Tom Landis, and Jim McNamee.

The minutes of the August meeting were approved with a correction introduced by Jim McNamee (the Evans VFW donated $200 to the Helicopter War Museum Maintenance and Development Fund instead of the $400 stated in the draft).  (Ed Fickes moved, Mike Law seconded.)  The Treasurer’s Reports for July, August and September were approved. (Mike Law moved, Phil Lanphier seconded.)

Honor Flight: Gary, Ed and Mike talked about the reception that the chapter hosted at DIA for 132 WWII veterans returning from an Honor Flight visit to the WWII memorial in Washington, D.C.  The reception was on September 12^th at the Signature Flight Facility, They reported that the reception was very successful and a great experience.  The chapter provided refreshments and member Bruce Cameron arranged for a song and dance duo to entertain the veterans.  The chapter probably will host two receptions a year in the future.  Gary proposed an “attaboy” for Ed for arranging the receptions, and the members responded with kudos.

Recognition for Bill Brewster: Jim proposed that the chapter give Bill Brewster, owner of B&B Trucking in Greeley, recognition for the transportation support he has provided for the Helicopter War Museum (HWM) since its inception.  Bill was an infantry company commander in the 173^rd Airborne Brigade in Vietnam.  He provides a tractor to transport the trailer at his cost, and often transports it to local venues for no cost.    His support has been invaluable.  The members approved the proposal, to include recognition at the museum’s venues and a Huey model and plaque for Bill.  Phil will provide the recognition and award, and Ed will provide nose art for the Huey.

Evans VFW Breakfast Fundraiser: Ed and Gary talked about the breakfast fundraiser that the Evans VFW had for the HWM on August 30^th.  The VFW donated the proceeds from the event to our museum ($600).  They also donated $200 to the museum for our support at the State VFW Convention in June.  Several members and some wives attended the breakfast and reported that it was very good.  Ed mentioned that they have breakfasts on the first and last Sundays of every month and that we should support them if we are in the area.  The Evans VFW is located at 3501 State Street in Evans, which is adjacent to Greeley.

Huey Parts: Hal mentioned that we should continue to search for Huey parts for the museum.  We have a good start on the cockpit display, but could use more.  Tom said that he may be able to get more parts from his contact.  The members discussed building the cockpit display once the trailer is located in Golden (after the Captain Swanson event at Mullen—see below).  (Note–Bill Robie is arranging space for the trailer in the Golden lot where we built the museum so that we can work on the display there.  If we are able to relocate the trailer to Golden, we probably will hold some future meetings/work parties there.)

Draft meeting minutes, 19 September 2009 (continued)

Mullen High School event: Phil, Ed and Mike talked about the Mullen High School event which will include testimonials to Captain Jon Swanson, an MHS graduate who won the Medal of Honor as a helicopter pilot in Vietnam.  The chapter previously decided to participate in the event and display the Helicopter War Museum.  Members will address classes in addition to being museum docents.  The classes will be in the gymnasium on Friday morning, October 9^th.  There also will be a veterans’ recognition event during halftime of the football game that night, with all attending veterans invited onto the field. The museum will be located in the parking lot just outside the main stadium gate.  We will set it up Thursday afternoon, October 8^th, and man it through halftime on Friday night.  Lunch will be provided to members on Friday.

Ed Fickes passed around a duty roster for museum docents and class participants.  If you want to participate, please contact Ed.  Phil also will prepare a schedule and a notice for Brian to send to members when we get closer to the event.  Ed, Phil and Mike will work on a shadow box depicting CPT Swanson’s feats.

Mike mentioned that between four and six pilots who flew with CPT Swanson will attend the event.  He asked that anyone who could provide lodging for the pilots contact him. He also talked about CPT Swanson’s heroics and the efforts since them to honor him.

Phil mentioned that the media would be there, and Mike stated that this would be a great opportunity for us to begin our school education campaign, which was one of the initial reasons we built the museum.  He also stated that we should send an article about the event to the VHPA “Aviator.”  He mentioned that the magazine is always looking for articles, and that members should consider submitting them.

Military Order of the Purple Heart: Gary mentioned that Walt Wise has arranged for the current MOPH Commandant, Jeff Roy, to be present at the at the November meeting along with a service officer.  Jeff, a helicopter pilot in Vietnam, is a great source of information because he has spent a considerable amount of time in places such as Congress working for veterans.  The MOPH is very helpful with veterans applying for VA benefits, even if they haven’t been awarded the Purple Heart.  Gary encouraged members to attend the November meeting.

“Welcome Home” Wristbands: Gary mentioned that Ed has purchased wristbands that we will use as fundraisers.  The wristbands have a Vietnam campaign ribbon motif and cost 71 cents apiece.  We will sell them for $2, with the proceeds going to the HWM Operating Fund.  He sold about a dozen to members.

Chapter Clothing and Hats: Gary mentioned that Jim had shirts that members had ordered and also hats.  He has extra shirts and hats for sale at very reasonable prices.

Heritage Square Outing: Gary mentioned that Bill Robie is willing to set up a Heritage Square Opera House outing.  The Opera House puts on an entertaining melodrama with a buffet dinner for a reasonable price.  Several members expressed interest.  Gary will contact Bill to arrange it.

Chapter Message Site: Gary mentioned the Yahoo site that Bill has set up for messages.  He asked that members use it only for chapter business and refrain from using it for other purposes.

Draft meeting minutes, 19 September 2009 (continued)

57^th AHC Reunion: Brian passed along a message from member Terry Sullivan—The 57^th AHC is having a reunion in Colorado Springs September 24^th through the 26^th. Contact Terry for details.

Christmas Gathering at John Grauff’s: John announced that he and his daughter, Laurel, will host their annual Christmas party on December 5^th.  All members are invited.  Jim mentioned that this is an event not to miss, with decorations similar to Macy’s and hospitality second to none.  Details will follow.

Upcoming Meetings: The October 17^th meeting probably will be at the Buffalo Rose in Golden. It will be followed by a museum work party (the museum will be transported after the Mullen event to the same lot in Golden where we originally built it so that we can work on the cockpit display).  Rick Beaver and Jerry Marshall are going to be the OIC’s for building the display.  Details will follow.

Unless otherwise decided and published, the meetings from November through May will be at the American Legion Post No. 1 on I-25 and Yale on the third Saturday of the month.  There will be no meeting in December, although we may host our annual cookie party at the VA Hospital that month.

Gary adjourned the meeting at 1130 hours.

Submitted by Jim McNamee, Secretary/Treasurer

27 JUNE 2009

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHAPTER

VIETNAM HELICOPTER PILOTS ASSOCIATION

President Rick Beaver called the meeting to order at 1005 hours in the Leprino Aviation reception area at the Rocky Mountain Regional Airport.

Members Present: Walt Winters, Walt Wise, Phil Lanphier, John Grauff, Bob Stewart, Jerry Marshall, Don Rice, Mike Silva, Rex Gooch, Hal Bergdahl, Swede Holmgren, Danny Cram, Tom Landis, Ed Fickes, Bill Robie, Fred Lyssy, Rick Beaver, Brian Foote and Jim McNamee.

Minutes of the May meeting were approved, (Walt Wise moved, Fred Lyssy seconded) as was the Treasurer’s Report for June (Ed Fickes moved, Phil Lanphier seconded).

Chapter Officer Elections: Rick discussed the fact that no one had volunteered or been nominated for Vise President or Junior Member at Large.  The new officers, including the new President, Gary Hurelle, are due to take office on July 4^th.  Rick stated that some of the members had suggested that we eliminate the Member at Large positions (allowing the current members at large to finish out their terms) because those officers are hardly ever consulted or utilized by the President.  He also said that the members had proposed having the VP’s term be only 1 year, rather than having an automatic succession to President.  This would result in having to elect two positions every year after this year (President and VP), but may encourage people to run for VP.  The final suggestion was that the Secretary/Treasurer be an elected position, rather than an appointed one.  After some discussion, all of the proposals passed unanimously (Walt Wise moved, Walt Winters seconded).

Following the vote, Walt Wise volunteered to run for VP, and was elected unanimously.  Rick then nominated Jim McNamee to continue as Secretary/Treasurer, and he also was elected unanimously.  The chapter officers for the next year, therefore, will be: President-Gary Hurelle; Vice President-Walt Wise; Senior Member at Large-Roger Patterson; Mid-term Member at Large-Fred Lyssy; and Secretary/Treasurer-Jim McNamee.  There will be no Junior Member at Large.

Jim mentioned that the chapter by laws would have to be changed, and Rick said that he would chair a committee to draft the new by laws.  Any member that wants to volunteer to help is encouraged to do so.  (Note—the members present acknowledged and approved the fact that the new officers were elected before the by laws were changed.)

Chapter website: The website currently is down for a transition to a new webmaster.  Ed Fickes son is taking it over, and is exchanging information with the current webmaster, Brian Foote’s son.  Ed said that the website should be back up soon (note—it is now back up).

Military Order of the Purple Heart: Walt Wise mentioned that the current MOPH Commandant, Jeff Roy, was going to be present at the BBQ and encouraged members to talk with him.  Walt said that the MOPH was a great organization and was especially helpful with veterans applying for VA benefits.  Jim mentioned that the MOPH had an office in the VA building in Lakewood.

Mullen High School event: Phil Lanphier talked about Mullen’s plan to honor CPT Jon Swanson, an MHS graduate who won the Medal of Honor as a helicopter pilot in Vietnam.  The chapter previously decided to participate in the event and display the Helicopter War Museum.  Members also will address classes.  The event will be held October 8^th and 9^th at Mullen

Meeting minutes, 27 June 2009 (continued)

in conjunction with other events commemorating the armed forces.  Ed Fickes will coordinate with Phil and will send out a duty roster for museum docents.

Honor Flight:  Ed mentioned that the chapter has been asked again to host a reception at DIA for WWII  veterans returning from an Honor Flight visit to the WWII memorial in Washington, D.C.  The reception will be September 12^th at the Signature Flight Facility.  Members who attended the last reception, including Bill Robie, reported that the event was very worthwhile.  Ed will be sending out a duty roster.  Also, Ed would like members to suggest bands or singing groups that would like to participate.

Cripple Creek Museum trip: Ed discussed the August 8^th and 9^th museum trip to Cripple Creek for its annual Armed Forces Appreciation Day.  The chapter previously approved participation.  Cripple Creek will pay for the museum’s transportation expenses and also will provide lodging for chapter members working the event.  Ed passed around a signup roster.

Museum Memorabilia: Bill Robie mentioned that we are still looking for memorabilia for the museum.  He mentioned that member Charles Bogle had donated a collective and cyclic for a planned cockpit mockup, but that we still need several other components.  If anyone has any leads, he should contact Bill, Ed Fickes, or Jim McNamee.

New Members and Dues: New chapter members Bob Stewart and Swede Holmgren signed up and paid their dues.  Rex Gooch and Walt Winters also paid their dues and Danny Cram updated his membership information.

.

Rick adjourned the meeting at 1100 hours.

Following the meeting, Don and Donna Rice hosted an excellent BBQ.  Also, chapter member Jerry Marshall gave several helicopter rides.  Chapter friend Randy Jensen also gave a few guests rides in his personal helicopter.

Note:  These minutes have been updated with new information since the meeting.  The information is current as of August 14, 2009.

Submitted by Jim McNamee, Secretary/Treasurer

President Ed Fickes called the meeting to order at 1015 hours at the Rio Grand Restaurant in Lone Tree, Colorado.

Minutes and Treasurer’s Report. Secretary/Treasurer Jim McNamee presented the minutes from the November 10th meeting, which were approved with one change (Roger Patterson stated that he was at the meeting, which was not noted (Motion-Mike Law, Second-Roger Patterson). Jim also presented the November and December 2007 and January 2008 Treasurer’s Reports, which were approved without changes (Motion-Phil Lanphier, Second- Mike Law)

Annual Dues. Jim mentioned that the $20 annual membership dues are due. Members may send them to Jim at 5 Summit Cedar Dr, Littleton, Co, 80127, payable to RMCVHPA.

Sweatshirts and Hats. Jim displayed Helicopter War Museum (HWM) sweatshirts and chapter hats that the chapter is selling/giving away for donations. The sweatshirts were donated by Fred Lyssy and cost $25 for crew necks and $30 for hooded. Proceeds go to the HWM Operating Fund. The hats cost $8.50 for members and also will be given to HWM visitors for a $15 donation. $6.50 of the hat donation will go to the HWM Operating Fund, and the other $8.50 will be reimbursed to the General fund, which paid for the hats.

Fred mentioned that River Graphics now has the HWM logo set up on its machines, and can make more pieces of apparel if this initiative proves successful.

Taking the HWM to the VHPA San Antonio Reunion. We discussed funding for taking the HWM to San Antonio. We previously had decided that we would not take it if we could not receive $2,000 funding for the transportation by the end of April. To date, we have not procured the funding. Ed mentioned that it may be a moot point because the California Chapter North has not found a place for their trailer, let alone ours, near the hotel. Ed will monitor the situation.

Museum Plaque for Medal of Honor Winners. Mike Law reported that there was a helicopter pilot with Colorado ties who recently was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor (CMH). Captain Jon Swanson was a graduate of Mullen High School and Colorado State University. Mike has been talking with Phil Lanphier, who initially advanced the idea of having a plaque in the HWM to honor CMH winners from the Rocky Mountain Region. A discussion ensued, and the members agreed that it would be a good idea to have a plaque or other recognition (such as a shadow box) in the HWM. They also felt that the recognition should highlight Rocky Mountain CMH winners, but also list all other helicopter air crew recipients as well. Phil volunteered to research the alternatives.

Draft Meeting Minutes, January 19, 2008, continued

VHPA San Antonio Reunion. Mike mentioned that the registration for the reunion would open within a week at www.vhpa.org.

VA Hospital Cookie Party and Possible Pig Roast. Ed and Jim talked about the VA cookie party on December 8th and stated that it was a success. About a dozen members/significant others attended the event or donated treats. Ed and Jim wrote an article about the event for the VHPA Aviator, which Ed passed around. They also mentioned Greg Mann’s party after the VA event. Greg’s party was a great get together, although the weather limited attendance.

Ed also mentioned that the staff at the VA Hospital asked us if we were going to have another pig roast, which was very well received when we did it a couple of years ago. Ed said that he is going to contact our “Pig Roast Expert,” Don Rice, to see if that would be feasible. He will report back in February.

Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH) Memorial. Ed mentioned that the MOPH was going to erect a granite memorial similar to the 091 memorial at Veterans Memorial Park in Greeley and that they were looking for donations. The dedication is set for Armed Forces Day on May 17th, which is our normal meeting day. The members discussed and approved a $100 donation for the memorial (Motion Mike Law, Second Fred Lyssy).

There also was a discussion about having the meeting there that day and displaying the HWM. Jim mentioned that there were not a lot of attendees or donations at the Veterans Day ceremony in November, and that we may have saturated the Greeley market with the HWM. He stated that we need to add exhibits, especially kid-oriented ones, before we exhibit the HWM in Greeley again. Ed mentioned that he knows of a guy in Greeley that has a lot of helicopter parts for sale, and that he will contact him to see if he would be interested in donating/loaning articles to the HWM. The question of whether to attend the memorial dedication was deferred.

St Patrick’s Day Parade. Phil mentioned that he was on the parade committee, and that we should think about having the HWM in the parade and displaying it afterward. It is too late for this year, but the members agreed that we should think about it for next year.

Greeley 091 Reunion. Ed mentioned that the annual Greeley 091 Reunion was planned for Wednesday, February 13th, at the Bayou House on Highway 85 north of Greeley. The cost will be $10.00. Ed will get tickets for anyone who plans to attend. (Note–After the meeting, Ed learned that the reunion celebration will be a BBQ held on April 26th. He will provide further details at the February meeting.)

Last Firebase Meeting. Ed mentioned that there will be a Last Firebase Meeting at the Eaton Country Club on February 16th. The Last Firebase is a Vietnam Veteran organization sponsored by the American Legion. Ed is the current president of the Greeley Chapter.

Sketches by Member Hal Bergdahl. Hal showed photos of excellent sketches he made from photographs of Ed and Jim. He suggested displaying these and other member sketches in the HWM to personalize the exhibits, which the members thought was an excellent idea. Ed will

Draft Meeting Minutes, January 19, 2008, continued

talk with him about it. Mike also talked at length with Hal about the possibility of having his Vietnam sketches in VHPA publications.

Future Meetings/Events. There was a lot of discussion about future meetings/events. Some of the suggestions were:

–The Royal Gorge Train Ride that we previously discussed. Bill Robie is looking into this event, but was not at the meeting. Ed will check with him.

–Fred Lyssy suggested that we could do the Georgetown Loop Railroad and have lunch in the area if the Royal Gorge trip doesn’t work out.

–Ed mentioned that we could take the Winter Park ski train, also. Fred said that he may be able to get lift tickets because he is a volunteer at Copper Mountain. He volunteered to check on the train.

–Jim mentioned that he heard that the VFW Post No. 1 (our old meeting location in Denver) has sold its building and was looking for a new location. If they relocate, we could schedule a meeting there to help them out. Ed said he will check on the relocation.

February Meeting–The February chapter meeting will be held on February 16th at 1000 hours at VFW Post 9644, 2680 W. Hampden, Sheridan, Colorado 80110. Ed will call them and arrange it.

March Meeting–The March meeting probably will be held in Winter Park (see above). Check the website at www.vhparmc.com or watch your e-mail for the latest information.

April Meeting–The members would like to meet in Colorado Springs in an effort to reconnect with members down there. Ed will check with member Terry Sullivan to see if he can help arrange a meeting place and program. We had a successful meeting there last February with a lunch and excellent speaker from Fort Carson that Terry helped arrange.

Ed adjourned the meeting at 1135 hours, and eight members and significant others stayed for lunch.

Jim McNamee, Secretary/Treasurer

(Note for draft only.) Ten members and two guests were in attendance at the meeting. They were Ed Fickes and Debbie Langley, Al and Dottie Harinck, Jim McNamee, Fred Lyssy, Mike Law, Roger Patterson, John Grauff, Hal Bergdahl, Jerry Marshall, and Phil Lanphier. Staying for lunch were Ed and Debbie, Fred and Cathy Lyssy, Roger, Hal, Jerry, and Jim.