NEWS

<body topmargin=0 leftmargin=0 marginheight=0 marginwidth=0> <table cellpadding=0 cellspacing=0 border=0><tr> <td valign="top" colspan=3 height=90 BGCOLOR="#333366" TEXT="#080000" background="72eb85a3.jpg"> <div> <FONT SIZE="5" COLOR="#FFFFFF" FACE="Arial" ><B>Department of New Jersey Marine Corps League</B></FONT><B>    </B><B> |     </B><A HREF="index.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Department of New Jersey Marine Corps Le"><B>home</B></A></div> <div> <A HREF="id20.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Dept Officers">Dept Officers</A><B>   |   </B><B>NEWS</B><B>   |   </B><A HREF="id191.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Events">Events</A><B>   |   </B><A HREF="id19.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Contact Us">Contact Us</A><B>   |   </B><A HREF="id192.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Uniform Regs etc">Uniform Regs etc</A><B>   |   </B><A HREF="id21.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="IMPORTANT LINKS">IMPORTANT LINKS</A><B>   |   </B><A HREF="id22.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Calendar">Calendar</A><B>   |   </B><A HREF="id182.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="NJ PACK">NJ PACK</A><B>   |   </B><A HREF="id143.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Photos">Photos</A><B>   |   </B><A HREF="forms.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Forms">Forms</A><B>   |   </B><A HREF="id211.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Special">Special</A><B>   |   </B><A HREF="id17.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE=" MISSION"> MISSION</A></div> <div> </div> </td> </tr><tr> <td valign="top" width=210 BGCOLOR="#333366" TEXT="#080000" background="72dd2e83.jpg"> <bR> <bR> <bR> </td> <td valign="top" height=390 width="100%" BGCOLOR="#FFFFFF" TEXT="#080000"> <div> NEWS & INFORMATION</div> <bR> <div> Hotline for the Dept. of Military and Veterans Affairs of NJ 1-866-VETS-NJ4U </div> <div> Counseling hotline 1-866-838-7654</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <FONT SIZE="5" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><B>Check out</B></FONT><FONT SIZE="1" COLOR="#0000BF" FACE="Wingdings 2" >   </FONT><FONT SIZE="5" COLOR="#0000BF" FACE="Wingdings 3" > </FONT><A HREF="https://www.motomail.us/login.cfm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="https://www.motomail.us/login.cfm"><IMG SRC="6a1b9190.gif" border=0 width="185" height="25" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></A></div> <div> <B> <A NAME="february_2006"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>July 2009</B></div> <bR> <div> <A HREF="#reports" TITLE="NEWS"><B>Reports</B></A></div> <div> <B> <a href="HTMLobj-2522/thank_you_letter09.doc"><u>Letter From The Outgoing Department Commandant</u> </a>  </B></div> <div> <B> <a href="HTMLobj-2074/2006NationalBylawsComplete.pdf"><u>National Bylaws</u> </a>       </B></div> <div> <B> <a href="HTMLobj-2378/Dept._of_NJ_Bylaws_2009.doc"><u>Dept Bylaws 2009</u> </a>  </B></div> <div> <A HREF="#va_secretary_expects_big_impact_from" TITLE="NEWS"><B>VA Secretary Expects Big Impact From Post-9/11 GI Bill</B></A><B> </B></div> <div> <A HREF="#overlooked_veterans_benefit" TITLE="NEWS"><B>Often Overlooked Veterans Benefit</B></A></div> <div> <A HREF="#board_of_trustees_pnc_s_and_department" TITLE="NEWS"><B>MCL Board</B></A><A HREF="#board_of_trustees_pnc_s_and_department" TITLE="NEWS"><B> Recommendations on Saluting the Flag</B></A></div> <div> <A HREF="#department_burialteam" TITLE="NEWS"><B>Department BurialTeam</B></A></div> <div> <A HREF="#subject_to_those_who_have_gone_before" TITLE="NEWS"><B>Message from the Commandant of the Marine Corps</B></A></div> <div> <A HREF="#honor_and_respect" TITLE="NEWS"><B>Honor and Respect</B></A></div> <div> <B> <a href="HTMLobj-2173/Cogress_Letter__Sgt_Lawrence_Hutchins__9-12-07.pdf"><u>Sgt Hutchings Letter</u> </a>  </B></div> <div> <A HREF="#new_membership_fees" TITLE="NEWS"><B>Membership Fees</B></A></div> <div> <A HREF="#support_sought_for_bill_which_proposes" TITLE="NEWS"><B>Support H.R. 345</B></A><B> </B><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <div> <A HREF="#drive_for_stamp_honoring_rhe_fallen_at" TITLE="NEWS"><B>Beruit Stamp</B></A></div> <div> <A HREF="id24.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Commandants Letter"><B>Department  Commandant's Letter</B></A><B> </B></div> <div> <A HREF="#marine_corps_league_policy_on_political" TITLE="NEWS"><B>Marine Corps League Policy On Political Participation</B></A></div> <div> <A HREF="#new_rules_for_mcl_medal" TITLE="NEWS"><B>New Membership Medal Rules</B></A></div> <div> <A HREF="#new_rules_for_mcl_medal" TITLE="NEWS"><B>New Rules for Marine Corps League Medal</B></A></div> <div> <A HREF="#tax_exempt_advisory" TITLE="NEWS"><B>Tax Exempt Advisory</B></A></div> <div> <A HREF="#drivers_needed_va_medical_facilities" TITLE="NEWS"><B>Drivers Needed</B></A></div> <div> <A HREF="#need_a_live_bugler_for_a_veteran_s" TITLE="NEWS"><B>Need A Live Bugler For A Veteran's Funeral?</B></A></div> <div> <B> <a href="HTMLobj-2175/MCL_License_Plate_Application_-_Dept_of_NJ.pdf"><u>MCL License Plates</u> </a>  </B></div> <div> <A HREF="#new_rules_for_bethesda_visits" TITLE="NEWS"><B>Rules for Bethesda Visits</B></A></div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B> <A NAME="va_secretary_expects_big_impact_from"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>VA Secretary Expects Big Impact From Post-9/11 GI Bill </B></div> <div> By Donna Miles </div> <div> American Forces Press Service </div> <bR> <div> WASHINGTON, April 6, 2009 - All systems are on track for this summer's rollout of the new Post-9/11 GI Bill, which Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric K. Shinseki said he expects to have as monumental an impact as the original World War II-era GI Bill of Rights. Shinseki, who served as Army chief of staff from 1999 to 2003, told American Forces Press Service he understands the excitement over the new program that goes into effect Aug. 1. </div> <bR> <div> The new GI Bill will provide the most comprehensive educational benefits since the original bill, officially called the Servicemen's Readjustment Act of 1944, was signed into law. </div> <bR> <div> Many veterans who served after Sept. 11, 2001, will be eligible for full tuition and fees, a new monthly housing stipend and an annual stipend of up to $1,000 for books and supplies. Reservists and National Guard members who have been activated for more than 90 days since 9/11 will have access to the same GI Bill benefits. </div> <bR> <div> And for the first time, those enrolled in the Post-9/11 GI Bill program will be able to transfer unused educational benefits to spouses or children. </div> <bR> <div> "It has been a long time since we've had an education initiative that includes tuition fees [and a] housing allowance, [and] takes care of all of the requirements required to go to school," Shinseki said of the program. This will enable veterans to focus on their studies, he said, without the distractions of figuring out how to pay for them. </div> <bR> <div> Shinseki said he expects the Post-9/11 GI Bill to have as big an impact as the original GI Bill. That law provided college education or vocational training for millions of returning World War II veterans, loans so they could buy homes or start businesses, and unemployment compensation while they looked for jobs. </div> <bR> <div> By the time the original GI Bill ended in July 1956, 7.8 million World War II veterans had taken advantage of the education and training programs it funded, and another 2.4 million had signed up for VA-backed home loans. </div> <bR> <div> "What that bill did for the country was to change the course of our history and the latter half of the 20th century," Shinseki said. "When those veterans went back to their communities with their college degrees, they ended up being our leaders in religion, education, business, government – you name it." </div> <bR> <div> The Post-9/11 version "has the opportunity to create in the 21st century the same kind of impact for development, ... social change [and] leadership across a lot of institutions," he said. </div> <bR> <div> The program will be administered and funded by VA, and represents a "huge investment" by the United States in its veterans, Shinseki said. </div> <bR> <div> This, he said, sends a strong, unmistakable message. </div> <bR> <div> "I think young veterans who come back and participate in [in the Post 9/11 GI Bill] will begin to understand how much they are valued [and] how much their service is valued, just by the opportunity here," he said. </div> <bR> <div> Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates advocated expanding education benefits as a way to recognize troops' service while supporting both recruiting and retention. Gates first heard the transferability concept floated during a meeting with a military spouses' group at Fort Hood, Texas, and pitched the idea to then-President George W. Bush. Bush promoted the idea and ultimately signed the Post-9/11 Veterans Education Assistance Act of 2008 into law on June 30. </div> <bR> <div> A whopping 97 percent of servicemembers surveyed in August said they plan to take advantage of the new benefits provided in the Post-11 GI Bill, said Bill Carr, deputy undersecretary of defense for military personnel policy. </div> <bR> <div> "Enormous interest has been expressed in the transferability provision and how it would work, because so many in the force have families," Carr said. He noted that half of the military force is married. By the time troops have served six years of duty, about two-thirds have families. </div> <bR> <div> To qualify for transferability under the Post-9/11 GI Bill, servicemembers must have served six years on active duty or in the Selected Reserve, and must commit to another four years. But Carr said the rules could be tweaked soon to allow mid- or late-career troops to qualify, even if they can't sign on for another four years of duty due to service restrictions. </div> <div> <A HREF="#february_2006" TITLE="NEWS"> <a href="" target="_top" csb-linktype="URL"><img src="HTMLobj-2481/o.jpg" alt="TOP" border="0" align="bottom" csb-maintain-proportions="1" width="100" height="20" csb-button="Cap-Blue" csb-font="" csb-font-bold="False" csb-font-italic="False" csb-font-strikethrough="False" csb-font-underline="False" csb-font-size="8" csb-font-color-o="0" csb-font-color-h="0" csb-font-color-p="0" csb-font-horiz="Center" csb-font-verti="Center" csb-font-left="0" csb-font-top="0" csb-img-hover="1" csb-img-press="1" csb-img-preload="0" csb-img-backcolor="16777215" onmouseout="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2481/o.jpg'" onmouseover="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2481/h.jpg'" onmouseup="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2481/h.jpg'" onmousedown="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2481/p.jpg'"></a>  </A></div> <bR> <div> <B> <A NAME="overlooked_veterans_benefit"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>Overlooked Veterans Benefit</B></div> <bR> <div> The Special Pension for Veterans’ Aid and Attendance pays up to $1,644 a month, $19,736 annually, toward assisted living, nursing homes or in-home care for veterans 65 and older who served at least 90 days and one day during wartime — stateside or overseas. Veterans and their spouses can receive up to $23,396 annually and spouses of deceased veterans, $12,681. </div> <div> Yet, an estimated $22 billion a year goes unclaimed, said <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>Don Soard</U></FONT>, a volunteer with Operation Veteran Aid in <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>Oklahoma City</U></FONT>. In 2007, only 134,000 seniors nationwide received the benefit, which was established in 1952. </div> <div> "Literally hundreds of thousands don’t even know about it,” Soard said. "Due to incomplete information, many disqualify themselves on income or assets or find the paperwork too burdensome.” </div> <div> Streamlined processSoard helps families complete the necessary forms, so that approval comes in four to six months. The process is streamlined for vets who are blind or have memory issues and widows with medical needs, he said. Most applicants qualify and payments are retroactive, Soard said. The few who are denied on excessive liquid assets can seek financial advice to qualify, he said. </div> <div> Soard started his volunteer mission two years ago, following the deaths of two family members who served in WWII. </div> <div> "If they’d known about this benefit, they’d have a much better quality of life in later years,” he said. "Without it, many vets are forced to go on <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>Medicaid</U></FONT>.” </div> <div> <U>Oklahoma</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > is one of nine states where the welfare program doesn’t cover assisted living costs. Assisted living often can be an alternative to a nursing home when 24-hour skilled care is not an absolute need, said </FONT><U>Willie Ferguson</U><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >, executive director of Legend at Rivendell in Oklahoma City. </FONT></div> <div> "But if someone just has Social Security and a small pension, it’s not enough to live here,” Ferguson said. </div> <div> According to a 2008 <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>MetLife</U></FONT> survey, assisted living in Oklahoma averages $2,346 a month, while nursing homes cost $153 a day for a private room. </div> <div> Of 73 Legend residents, nine receive the veterans’ special pension, including <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>Tom Bowen</U></FONT>, 77, of Moore. </div> <div> "Until I toured this operation, I had no idea the benefit was available,” said Bowen, a retired engineer technician from the <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>Federal Aviation Administration</U></FONT> who served stateside during the Korean Conflict. </div> <div> Bowen recently moved into the Legend facility following several mini strokes and a diagnosis of short-term memory loss. </div> <div> "It’s been pretty hard trying to handle expenses on my own and being able to replace savings,” said <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>Marie Bowen</U></FONT>, his wife of 57 years. Finding a nearby facility and learning about the special veterans’ pension has been a godsend, she said. </div> <bR> <div> <A HREF="#february_2006" TITLE="NEWS"> <a href="" target="_top" csb-linktype="URL"><img src="HTMLobj-2445/o.jpg" alt="TOP" border="0" align="bottom" csb-maintain-proportions="1" width="100" height="20" csb-button="Cap-Blue" csb-font="" csb-font-bold="False" csb-font-italic="False" csb-font-strikethrough="False" csb-font-underline="False" csb-font-size="8" csb-font-color-o="0" csb-font-color-h="0" csb-font-color-p="0" csb-font-horiz="Center" csb-font-verti="Center" csb-font-left="0" csb-font-top="0" csb-img-hover="1" csb-img-press="1" csb-img-preload="0" csb-img-backcolor="16777215" onmouseout="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2445/o.jpg'" onmouseover="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2445/h.jpg'" onmouseup="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2445/h.jpg'" onmousedown="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2445/p.jpg'"></a>  </A></div> <bR> <div> <B> <A NAME="board_of_trustees_pnc_s_and_department"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>Board of Trustees, PNC’s and Department Commandants –</B></div> <div> <B>During a meeting of the National Board of Trustees at the Midwinter Conference -</B></div> <bR> <div> There was an open discussion with regards to the decision by Congress authorizing Military Veterans to render a “hand salute” when not in uniform, and the ALMAR from CMC which seemed to indicate a different interpretation.  There have been many questions from Marine Corps League members across the country, asking for direction.</div> <div> The Board of Trustees issued this direction:  “The basic Marine Corps League uniform item is the Marine Corps League cover (fore-and-aft cap or p-cutter as it is referred to).  When a member of the Marine Corps League is outdoors and wearing his/her MCL Cover, they are considered to be in uniform and should render a hand salute as appropriate honors to the American Flag.  When indoors at a League function (other than a Banquet, Dinner, etc.) it is appropriate to wear the MCL Cover.  In that situation, it would also be appropriate to render a “hand salute” when the American Flag passes by (Colors are Presented).  If you are uncovered indoors, “hand over the heart” is the appropriate action. </div> <div> The decision as to whether to render a “hand salute” or “hand over the heart” when NOT in authorized Marine Corps League uniform (Marine Corps League Cover) is a matter of personal preference.  In other words, whether you are wearing “no cover”, a baseball cap, etc., if the MCL uniform IS NOT involved, the decision is a “matter of individual personal preference”.</div> <div> This subject will be covered in the upcoming “Semper Fi”, however because there have been so many questions regarding this issue, we are disseminating it now to ensure that all of us are on the same page when the question arises.</div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <div> <A HREF="#february_2006" TITLE="NEWS"> <a href="" target="_top" csb-linktype="URL"><img src="HTMLobj-2358/o.jpg" alt="TOP" border="0" align="bottom" csb-maintain-proportions="1" width="100" height="20" csb-button="Cap-Blue" csb-font="" csb-font-bold="False" csb-font-italic="False" csb-font-strikethrough="False" csb-font-underline="False" csb-font-size="8" csb-font-color-o="0" csb-font-color-h="0" csb-font-color-p="0" csb-font-horiz="Center" csb-font-verti="Center" csb-font-left="0" csb-font-top="0" csb-img-hover="1" csb-img-press="1" csb-img-preload="0" csb-img-backcolor="16777215" onmouseout="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2358/o.jpg'" onmouseover="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2358/h.jpg'" onmouseup="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2358/h.jpg'" onmousedown="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2358/p.jpg'"></a>  </A></div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B> <A NAME="department_burialteam"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>Department BurialTeam</B></div> <div> It is my pleasure to announce that the Department of New Jersey, Marine Corps League is devising the implementation of a <B>Department Burial Team. </B>If plausible, this team would consists of members from throughout the Department's membership and would be responsible for assisting with military burials.</div> <div> Currently, this task is handled by active duty and reserve Marines, but due to obvious commitments elsewhere, it is not always possible for them to fulfill this duty. So as to assist whenever the need becomes necessary, the Department's Burial Team would render the duty for providing our deceased brethren the military honors so rightfully earned and deserved.</div> <div> The Burial Team would be comprised as follows:</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Aria006c009500e600000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Full Team of 20 Marines consisting of 6 body bearers and 1 QIC; 7 Riflemen and 1 QIC;</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Aria006c009500e600000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">4 Color Guard (2 flag bearers and 2 riflemen), and 1 bugler.</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Aria006c009500e600000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Partial Team of 8 Marines consisting of 4 body bearers; 2 flagmen, bugler and 1 QIC.</div> <div> Ideally, our aim is to establish a full team of 20 Marines, however, if necessary, adequate ceremonies can be conducted by using a partial team of 8 Marines.</div> <div> Members of the Burial Team would be gathered from all parts of the state, and divided into "regions" for easier assignment to details. Practice would most likely be held at the West Trenton Reserve Barracks where our State Meetings are held, but other issues such as uniforms, etc. are yet to be determined.</div> <div> Gentlemen, this is an opportunity for us, as Marine Corps Leaguers, to fulfill a primary objective of the League - to assist our Corps and fellow Marines. Please discuss this topic with your respective Staffs and membership. Questions, comments, concerns or complaints can be directed to Perry Piwowarski, PC of the West Hudson Detachment #209, who can be reached at (201) 955-1176.</div> <div> Semper Fidelis,</div> <div> Perry Piwowarski</div> <div> Past Commandant</div> <div> West Hudson Detachment #209</div> <bR> <div> <A HREF="#february_2006" TITLE="NEWS"> <a href="" target="_top" csb-linktype="URL"><img src="HTMLobj-2179/o.jpg" alt="TOP" border="0" align="bottom" csb-maintain-proportions="1" width="100" height="20" csb-button="Cap-Blue" csb-font="" csb-font-bold="False" csb-font-italic="False" csb-font-strikethrough="False" csb-font-underline="False" csb-font-size="8" csb-font-color-o="0" csb-font-color-h="0" csb-font-color-p="0" csb-font-horiz="Center" csb-font-verti="Center" csb-font-left="0" csb-font-top="0" csb-img-hover="1" csb-img-press="1" csb-img-preload="0" csb-img-backcolor="16777215" onmouseout="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2179/o.jpg'" onmouseover="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2179/h.jpg'" onmouseup="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2179/h.jpg'" onmousedown="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2179/p.jpg'"></a>  </A></div> <bR> <div>  <A NAME="honor_and_respect"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>Honor and Respect</div> <bR> <div> The Marine Corps League Foundation suggests that your detachment consider making an automatic donation (usually $ 25.00) to the foundation <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >you lose a member. They will then send a special certificate for presentation or direct mailing to the family of the deceased member if an address s provided.  The certificate acknowledges a donation made in memory of the deceased member.  The certificate provides a lasting tribute and the money goes to the League scholarship and youth programs. </FONT></div> <bR> <bR> <div> <A HREF="#february_2006" TITLE="NEWS"> <a href="" target="_top" csb-linktype="URL"><img src="HTMLobj-2046/o.jpg" alt="TOP" border="0" align="bottom" csb-maintain-proportions="1" width="100" height="20" csb-button="Cap-Blue" csb-font="" csb-font-bold="False" csb-font-italic="False" csb-font-strikethrough="False" csb-font-underline="False" csb-font-size="8" csb-font-color-o="0" csb-font-color-h="0" csb-font-color-p="0" csb-font-horiz="Center" csb-font-verti="Center" csb-font-left="0" csb-font-top="0" csb-img-hover="1" csb-img-press="1" csb-img-preload="0" csb-img-backcolor="16777215" onmouseout="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2046/o.jpg'" onmouseover="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2046/h.jpg'" onmouseup="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2046/h.jpg'" onmousedown="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2046/p.jpg'"></a>  </A></div> <bR> <div> <B> <A NAME="subject_to_those_who_have_gone_before"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>Subject: TO THOSE WHO HAVE GONE BEFORE</B></div> <div> <B>UNCLAS 111320Z APR 07</B></div> <div> <B>CMC WASHINGTON DC(UC)</B></div> <div> <B>TO AL ALMAR(UC</B></div> <div> <B>ALMAR 020/07 </B></div> <div> <B>MSGID/GENADMIN/CMC WASHINGTON DC CMC//</B></div> <div> <B>SUBJ: TO THOSE WHO HAVE GONE BEFORE//</B></div> <div> <B>1. TO BE A MARINE IS TO BE A PART OF SOMETHING THAT REPRESENTS THE BEST OF OUR NATION. IT IS TO ACCEPT A WAY OF LIFE THAT EMBODIES SELFLESS SERVICE - TO DEFEND THOSE WHO CANNOT DEFEND THEMSELVES, TO THRIVE IN THE HARDSHIP AND SACRIFICE EXPECTED OF AN ELITE WARRIOR CLASS, TO MARCH TO THE SOUND OF THE GUNS, AND TO ABLY SHOULDER THE HERITAGE CREATED BY THOSE WHO HAVE GONE BEFORE US.</B></div> <div> <B>2. ONLY A FEW AMERICANS CHOOSE THE DANGEROUS AND NECESSARY WORK OF FIGHTING OUR NATIONS ENEMIES. AS A CONSEQUENCE OF THAT CHOICE, SOME HAVE PAID THE ULTIMATE PRICE, JOINING THE HONOR ROLL OF HEROES WHO BUILT THE NOBLE LEGACY OF OUR CORPS. FOR THOSE OF US WHO CARRY ON THAT LEGACY, IT IS OUR OBLIGATION TO HONOR THOSE FALLEN MARINES.</B></div> <div> <B>AS MARINES GATHER IN CELEBRATION OF OUR HISTORY, WE GATHER IN THE SHADOWS OF GREATNESS - THOUGH OUR FALLEN CAN NO LONGER PARTICIPATE IN OUR TRADITIONS, THEY WILL ALWAYS BE A PART OF US AND WHO WE ARE.</B></div> <div> <B>3. THEREFORE, I AM DIRECTING THAT ALL UNIT MESS NIGHTS AND MARINE CORPS BIRTHDAY BALL CELEBRATIONS INCLUDE WORTHY AND APPROPRIATE TRIBUTES TO OUR FALLEN COMRADES. SUBSEQUENT CHANGES TO THE DRILL AND CEREMONIES MANUAL WILL REFLECT THIS REQUIREMENT. THROUGH MEANINGFUL REMEMBRANCE, THE SACRIFICES OF "THOSE WHO HAVE GONE BEFORE" WILL NOT BECOME DISTANT MEMORIES, BUT WILL LIVE ALWAYS IN OUR WARRIOR CULTURE.</B></div> <div> <B>4. SEMPER FIDELIS, JAMES T. CONWAY, GENERAL, U.S. MARINE CORPS,</B></div> <div> <B>COMMANDANT OF THE MARINE CORPS//</B></div> <bR> <div> <A HREF="#february_2006" TITLE="NEWS"> <a href="" target="_top" csb-linktype="URL"><img src="HTMLobj-2043/o.jpg" alt="TOP" border="0" align="bottom" csb-maintain-proportions="1" width="100" height="20" csb-button="Cap-Blue" csb-font="" csb-font-bold="False" csb-font-italic="False" csb-font-strikethrough="False" csb-font-underline="False" csb-font-size="8" csb-font-color-o="0" csb-font-color-h="0" csb-font-color-p="0" csb-font-horiz="Center" csb-font-verti="Center" csb-font-left="0" csb-font-top="0" csb-img-hover="1" csb-img-press="1" csb-img-preload="0" csb-img-backcolor="16777215" onmouseout="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2043/o.jpg'" onmouseover="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2043/h.jpg'" onmouseup="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2043/h.jpg'" onmousedown="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2043/p.jpg'"></a>  </A></div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <div> <B> <A NAME="support_sought_for_bill_which_proposes"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>Support </B><B>Sought For Bill</B><B>, Which Proposes That "</B><B>The Dept. of the Navy" Be Changed to "The Dept. of the Navy and Marine Corps"</B><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >.</FONT></div> <bR> <div> Please call your Congressmen <B>House Switchboard: (202) 226-4101 </B>and Senators <B>Senate Switchboard: (202) 224-3121 or  their</B><B> </B><B>local offices</B> and ask them to pass  bill <B>H.R 346</B> to make the Dept. of the Navy, the Dept. of the Navy and Marine Corps.</div> <bR> <bR> <div> <A HREF="#february_2006" TITLE="NEWS"> <a href="" target="_top" csb-linktype="URL"><img src="HTMLobj-2018/o.jpg" alt="TOP" border="0" align="bottom" csb-maintain-proportions="1" width="100" height="20" csb-button="Cap-Blue" csb-font="" csb-font-bold="False" csb-font-italic="False" csb-font-strikethrough="False" csb-font-underline="False" csb-font-size="8" csb-font-color-o="0" csb-font-color-h="0" csb-font-color-p="0" csb-font-horiz="Center" csb-font-verti="Center" csb-font-left="0" csb-font-top="0" csb-img-hover="1" csb-img-press="1" csb-img-preload="0" csb-img-backcolor="16777215" onmouseout="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2018/o.jpg'" onmouseover="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2018/h.jpg'" onmouseup="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2018/h.jpg'" onmousedown="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2018/p.jpg'"></a>  </A></div> <bR> <div> <B> <A NAME="drive_for_stamp_honoring_rhe_fallen_at"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>Drive for Stamp Honoring the Fallen at Beruit</B></div> <bR> <div> The families of US Marines killed in the first battle in the Global War on Terror have been trying for over 20 years for the U.S. Postal Service to issue a commerative stamp that recognizes the ultimate sacrifice that was made by 241 American peacekeepers in October, 1983. Six of those killed as a result of injuries sustained in Beirut, Lebanon were proud to call New Jersey "Home" and were taken from us way too soon in life. Their names are inscribed into the Beirut Memorial in Jacksonville, NC just outside the gates of Camp Lejeune. </div> <bR> <div> NAME                                            SERVICE   RANK    DEATH         STATE    HOMETOWN </div> <div> Burley, William F. ........                    USMC   ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. NJ ..        Linden, NJ </div> <div> Cox, Manuel A. ............                   USMC  ... SGT ....  12/04/1983 ..  NJ ..       Union City, NJ </div> <div> Dramis, George L...........                USMC  . .. LCPL .. 01/30/1984 .  NJ ..        Cape May Court House </div> <div> Estler, Sean F. ...........                     USMC . . . PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. NJ ..        Kendall Park, NJ</div> <div> Innocenzi, Paul G. III ....                    USMC . . WO1 .     10/23/1983 .  NJ ..        Trenton, NJ</div> <div> Langon, James J. IV .......               USMC ... LCPL ...  10/23/1983 .  NJ ..         Lakehurst, NJ</div> <div> During the past 20 years, the USPS and it's Citizen's Stamp Advisory Committee have given a number of reasons why they will not issue a stamp for that infamous day. But perhaps none of them stings more harshly than this one - "<I>Beirut did not mean that much to American History and not enough people were killed.</I>" </div> <div> Over the years, stamps have been unveiled and issued both in series and individually for many of this nation’s politicians, cartoon characters, actors, insects, birds, racehorses, rockstars, Santa Claus, composers, flowers, etc….. the list is endless. For reference, last year’s commemorative stamps can be viewed at - <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U>http://www.usps.com/communications/news/stamps/2005/sr05_054.htm</U></FONT> . If the USPS and CSAC feel that these stamps and numerous more are worthy of casting a stamp die to commemorate their moment of fame, they need to be aware of the consensus of the families, citizens and comrades of the fallen heroes which is to do the right thing - unveil and issue a postage stamp to honor the peacekeeping mission in Beirut, Lebanon 1982-1984. </div> <div> The objective is to have this stamp commissioned on/before the 25th Anniversary of October 23, 2008. In order to accomplish this mission, we must bring tremendous pressure to bear, NOW, on those responsible for determining which stamps get approved. Your postcards will help. </div> <div> As not all of the New Jersey Detachments have websites or eMail addresses, I am starting out by first sending this notice to those that do. The rest I will pursue via snail mail. Please review the attached information and share it with any fellow Marines who can assist us in this endeavor. </div> <div> Semper Fi, </div> <div> Joe Heintjes, Corporal </div> <div> USMC 1981 - 1985</div> <bR> <bR> <div> <A HREF="#february_2006" TITLE="NEWS"> <a href="" target="_top" csb-linktype="URL"><img src="HTMLobj-2011/o.jpg" alt="TOP" border="0" align="bottom" csb-maintain-proportions="1" width="100" height="20" csb-button="Cap-Blue" csb-font="" csb-font-bold="False" csb-font-italic="False" csb-font-strikethrough="False" csb-font-underline="False" csb-font-size="8" csb-font-color-o="0" csb-font-color-h="0" csb-font-color-p="0" csb-font-horiz="Center" csb-font-verti="Center" csb-font-left="0" csb-font-top="0" csb-img-hover="1" csb-img-press="1" csb-img-preload="0" csb-img-backcolor="16777215" onmouseout="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2011/o.jpg'" onmouseover="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2011/h.jpg'" onmouseup="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2011/h.jpg'" onmousedown="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2011/p.jpg'"></a>  </A></div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <div> <B> <A NAME="marine_corps_league_policy_on_political"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>MARINE CORPS LEAGUE POLICY ON POLITICAL PARTICIPATION IN LOCAL, STATE, AND NATIONAL ELECTIONS</B></div> <bR> <div>  As we are about to conclude the mid-term elections of 2006, it has been brought to my attention, on more than one occasion I’m sad to say, that apparently members of the Marine Corps League have appeared with candidates in TV and newspaper advertisements and photos that gives the appearance these Leaguers are offering an endorsement by the Marine Corps League for their candidacy. </div> <bR> <div> The following is the Marine Corps League’s <U>POLICY</U> on the aforementioned subject taken from the National Bylaws and Administrative Procedures, Chapter One, Section 110:</div> <div> <U>SECTION 110 – POLICY</U></div> <div> (b) The Marine Corps League shall never take part in any labor or management dispute or issue, and it shall be ever non-sectarian, non-political, and non-partisan; nor shall it be based on the grounds of race, color, creed, nationality, or sex; nor shall it be used as a medium of political ambition or preferment; nor shall former or present military rank or former or present civilian position be used as the basis for special consideration or preferment.</div> <div> The Marine Corps League wants and strongly encourages <U>ALL</U> its members and family to exercise their Constitutional duty to vote. With that said, our membership can not give the impression that the League supports <U>ANY</U> one candidate or political party. That said, wearing a Marine Corps League cover or any part of the Marine Corps League uniform to a political function would violate our National Bylaws.</div> <div> I enjoin you, as the leadership of the Marine Corps League, to ensure all those members under your charge review the Marine Corps League’s Policy as outlined above and ensure it is adhered to. Thank you for taking the time to read this memorandum. The League needs your total support on this issue. Give my personal best wishes to everyone as we prepare to celebrate our 231<FONT SIZE="1" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >st</FONT> Birthday. God Bless America.</div> <bR> <div> JACK RYAN</div> <div> National Commandant</div> <bR> <bR> <div> <A HREF="#february_2006" TITLE="NEWS"> <a href="" target="_top" csb-linktype="URL"><img src="HTMLobj-2008/o.jpg" alt="TOP" border="0" align="bottom" csb-maintain-proportions="1" width="100" height="20" csb-button="Cap-Blue" csb-font="" csb-font-bold="False" csb-font-italic="False" csb-font-strikethrough="False" csb-font-underline="False" csb-font-size="8" csb-font-color-o="0" csb-font-color-h="0" csb-font-color-p="0" csb-font-horiz="Center" csb-font-verti="Center" csb-font-left="0" csb-font-top="0" csb-img-hover="1" csb-img-press="1" csb-img-preload="0" csb-img-backcolor="16777215" onmouseout="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2008/o.jpg'" onmouseover="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2008/h.jpg'" onmouseup="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2008/h.jpg'" onmousedown="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2008/p.jpg'"></a>  </A></div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <div> <B> <A NAME="new_rules_for_mcl_medal"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>New Rules For MCL Medal</B></div> <bR> <div> At the National Convention t was decided to award the MCL Membership medal to all members of the Marine Corps League as of their joining date.  Prior to this a member had to have belonged for 5 years to be eligibile for this medal.</div> <bR> <bR> <div> <A HREF="#february_2006" TITLE="NEWS"> <a href="" target="_top" csb-linktype="URL"><img src="HTMLobj-2004/o.jpg" alt="TOP" border="0" align="bottom" csb-maintain-proportions="1" width="100" height="20" csb-button="Cap-Blue" csb-font="" csb-font-bold="False" csb-font-italic="False" csb-font-strikethrough="False" csb-font-underline="False" csb-font-size="8" csb-font-color-o="0" csb-font-color-h="0" csb-font-color-p="0" csb-font-horiz="Center" csb-font-verti="Center" csb-font-left="0" csb-font-top="0" csb-img-hover="1" csb-img-press="1" csb-img-preload="0" csb-img-backcolor="16777215" onmouseout="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2004/o.jpg'" onmouseover="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2004/h.jpg'" onmouseup="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2004/h.jpg'" onmousedown="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2004/p.jpg'"></a>  </A></div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="646" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=CENTER HEIGHT= 26 WIDTH="622"><div> <B> <A NAME="drivers_needed_va_medical_facilities"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>Drivers Needed VA Medical Facilities</B><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="7"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="26" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="7" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="7"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="26" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="7" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <div> The Disabled American Veterans, Dept. of NJ are committed to purchase three (3) vans for East Orange and Lyons Hospital for the year 2009. They need drivers. if you are interested please call the DAV, State Dept. headquarters at 609-396-2885. </div> <bR> <div> <A HREF="#february_2006" TITLE="NEWS"> <a href="" target="_top" csb-linktype="URL"><img src="HTMLobj-2000/o.jpg" alt="TOP" border="0" align="bottom" csb-maintain-proportions="1" width="100" height="20" csb-button="Cap-Blue" csb-font="" csb-font-bold="False" csb-font-italic="False" csb-font-strikethrough="False" csb-font-underline="False" csb-font-size="8" csb-font-color-o="0" csb-font-color-h="0" csb-font-color-p="0" csb-font-horiz="Center" csb-font-verti="Center" csb-font-left="0" csb-font-top="0" csb-img-hover="1" csb-img-press="1" csb-img-preload="0" csb-img-backcolor="16777215" onmouseout="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2000/o.jpg'" onmouseover="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2000/h.jpg'" onmouseup="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2000/h.jpg'" onmousedown="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2000/p.jpg'"></a>  </A></div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <div> <B> <A NAME="new_membership_fees"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>Membership Fees</B></div> <bR> <div> <B>Regular and Associate Membership dues are set by each detachment.</B></div> <bR> <div> <B>LIFE Membership Fees -You must already be a "Member in Good Standing". That means becoming a member and paying your initial dues first. Yes, according to the Bylaws, you could join the League, pay your dues and then pay your Life Membership Dues all in the same day. </B></div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B>Age            Fee</B></div> <div> <B>-35           $ 500.00</B></div> <div> <B>36-50      $ 400.00</B></div> <div> <B>51-60      $ 300.00</B></div> <div> <B>61-           $ 150.00</B></div> <bR> <div> <B> </B></div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <div> <A HREF="#february_2006" TITLE="NEWS"> <a href="" target="_top" csb-linktype="URL"><img src="HTMLobj-1994/o.jpg" alt="TOP" border="0" align="bottom" csb-maintain-proportions="1" width="100" height="20" csb-button="Cap-Blue" csb-font="" csb-font-bold="False" csb-font-italic="False" csb-font-strikethrough="False" csb-font-underline="False" csb-font-size="8" csb-font-color-o="0" csb-font-color-h="0" csb-font-color-p="0" csb-font-horiz="Center" csb-font-verti="Center" csb-font-left="0" csb-font-top="0" csb-img-hover="1" csb-img-press="1" csb-img-preload="0" csb-img-backcolor="16777215" onmouseout="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-1994/o.jpg'" onmouseover="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-1994/h.jpg'" onmouseup="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-1994/h.jpg'" onmousedown="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-1994/p.jpg'"></a>  </A></div> <bR> <div> <B> <A NAME="tax_exempt_advisory"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>Tax Exempt Advisory</B></div> <bR> <div> Click on the following link to download a copy of the Tax Advsiory Issued by the US Government clarifying the Tax Status of the Marine Corps League and its detachments  <A HREF="#february_2006" TITLE="NEWS"> <a href="HTMLobj-1954/Tax_Exempt_blank.doc"><u>ADVISORY</u> </a>  </A></div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <div> <A HREF="#february_2006" TITLE="NEWS"> <a href="" target="_top" csb-linktype="URL"><img src="HTMLobj-1955/o.jpg" alt="TOP" border="0" align="bottom" csb-maintain-proportions="1" width="100" height="20" csb-button="Cap-Blue" csb-font="" csb-font-bold="False" csb-font-italic="False" csb-font-strikethrough="False" csb-font-underline="False" csb-font-size="8" csb-font-color-o="0" csb-font-color-h="0" csb-font-color-p="0" csb-font-horiz="Center" csb-font-verti="Center" csb-font-left="0" csb-font-top="0" csb-img-hover="1" csb-img-press="1" csb-img-preload="0" csb-img-backcolor="16777215" onmouseout="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-1955/o.jpg'" onmouseover="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-1955/h.jpg'" onmouseup="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-1955/h.jpg'" onmousedown="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-1955/p.jpg'"></a>  </A></div> <bR> <div> <B> <A NAME="new_rules_for_bethesda_visits"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B> Rules for Bethesda Visits</B></div> <bR> <div> The Marine Corps League, Marines Helping Marines Program, <B>will be limited to one visit per week,</B> and that will be Wednesday at 1300. We will be further limited to 3 visitors on the floor at any given time. We may be able to rotate different visitors up to the 5th floor, but that has not been worked out yet.</div> <div> We will also be required to glove and gown up prior to entering the rooms, each and every room.</div> <div> If you plan on visiting send me or Tony Begenwald , <A HREF="mailto:CAROLETONYBEG@aol.com" TARGET="_top" TITLE="mailto:CAROLETONYBEG@aol.com"><U>CAROLETONYBEG@aol.com</U></A>, an e-mail the Sunday prior to the Wednesday you wish to visit.</div> <div> Please forward this to any interested Marine Corps League member.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Note: </B>We have about 30 wounded Marines at Walter Reed Hospital, as out patients, that can be seen on a regular basis. Let me know if you would like to visit there, so far the visiting is not too restrictive at Walter Reed, and those Marines are able to go to dinner and other outings. They have a real need for visitors and mentors.</div> <bR> <div> Semper Fi, Lou Stavely, Chaplain, Dept of Maryland, 301-785-3524</div> <bR> <div> <A HREF="#february_2006" TITLE="NEWS"> <a href="" target="_top" csb-linktype="URL"><img src="HTMLobj-1929/o.jpg" alt="TOP" border="0" align="bottom" csb-maintain-proportions="1" width="100" height="20" csb-button="Cap-Blue" csb-font="" csb-font-bold="False" csb-font-italic="False" csb-font-strikethrough="False" csb-font-underline="False" csb-font-size="8" csb-font-color-o="0" csb-font-color-h="0" csb-font-color-p="0" csb-font-horiz="Center" csb-font-verti="Center" csb-font-left="0" csb-font-top="0" csb-img-hover="1" csb-img-press="1" csb-img-preload="0" csb-img-backcolor="16777215" onmouseout="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-1929/o.jpg'" onmouseover="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-1929/h.jpg'" onmouseup="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-1929/h.jpg'" onmousedown="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-1929/p.jpg'"></a>  </A></div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B> <A NAME="marines_helping_wounded_marines"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>M</B><B>ARINES HELPING WOUNDED MARINES</B></div> <bR> <div> The Gooney Bird Detachment is running a Marines Helping Wounded Marines Program.  Donate the following or Checks (Make Payable to "Gooney Bird Detachment" ) PO Box 1775 New Milford, NJ 07646.  All donations will be sent to wounded Marines at Bethesda Naval Hospital. </div> <div> Items needed:<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >Phone Cards</FONT></div> <div> Electric Razors                                                       Batteries (AA & AAA)</div> <div> DVD Movies (18-28 Age Group)                         Electronic Games</div> <div> Music CDs (18-28 Age Group)                            Board Games</div> <div> Movie Vouchers                                                     Bottled Gatorade</div> <div> Frequent Flyer Tickets                                           Personal DVD Players</div> <div> Tickets to Athletic Games                                     Personal CD Players</div> <div> Easy On-OFF Apparel                                          White Socks</div> <div> Miniture USA and Marine Corps Flags               Tee Shirts</div> <div> Hotel Vouchers                                                      Athletic Shorts</div> <div> Food Vouchers for eateries in the Bethesda area</div> <div> <A HREF="#february_2006" TITLE="NEWS"> <a href="" target="_top" csb-linktype="URL"><img src="HTMLobj-1930/o.jpg" alt="TOP" border="0" align="bottom" csb-maintain-proportions="1" width="100" height="20" csb-button="Cap-Blue" csb-font="" csb-font-bold="False" csb-font-italic="False" csb-font-strikethrough="False" csb-font-underline="False" csb-font-size="8" csb-font-color-o="0" csb-font-color-h="0" csb-font-color-p="0" csb-font-horiz="Center" csb-font-verti="Center" csb-font-left="0" csb-font-top="0" csb-img-hover="1" csb-img-press="1" csb-img-preload="0" csb-img-backcolor="16777215" onmouseout="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-1930/o.jpg'" onmouseover="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-1930/h.jpg'" onmouseup="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-1930/h.jpg'" onmousedown="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-1930/p.jpg'"></a>  </A></div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <div> <B> <A NAME="need_a_live_bugler_for_a_veteran_s"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B></div> <div> <B>Need A Live Bugler For A Veteran's Funeral?</B></div> <bR> <div> Contact<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><U> </U></FONT><A HREF="http://xeml.buglesacrossamerica.org/findabugler.xeml" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://xeml.buglesacrossamerica.org/find">Bugles Across America</A> or  <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><A HREF="mailto:markparadis@earthlink.net" TARGET="_top" TITLE="mailto:markparadis@earthlink.net"><U>Mark Paradis</U></A></FONT></div> <div> <B> <A NAME="dmv_instructions"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B></div> <div> <B>DMV Instructions</B></div> <bR> <div> Click this <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><A HREF="id148.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="MV Instructions"><U>link</U></A></FONT> for instructions on how to fill out license plate request </div> <div>  <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#111111" FACE="Arial" ><A HREF="#february_2006" TITLE="NEWS"> </A></FONT><A HREF="#february_2006" TITLE="NEWS"> <a href="" target="_top" csb-linktype="URL"><img src="HTMLobj-1932/o.jpg" alt="TOP" border="0" align="bottom" csb-maintain-proportions="1" width="100" height="20" csb-button="Cap-Blue" csb-font="" csb-font-bold="False" csb-font-italic="False" csb-font-strikethrough="False" csb-font-underline="False" csb-font-size="8" csb-font-color-o="0" csb-font-color-h="0" csb-font-color-p="0" csb-font-horiz="Center" csb-font-verti="Center" csb-font-left="0" csb-font-top="0" csb-img-hover="1" csb-img-press="1" csb-img-preload="0" csb-img-backcolor="16777215" onmouseout="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-1932/o.jpg'" onmouseover="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-1932/h.jpg'" onmouseup="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-1932/h.jpg'" onmousedown="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-1932/p.jpg'"></a>  </A></div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <div> <B></B><B>REPORTS</B><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > <A NAME="reports"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></FONT><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#111111" FACE="Arial" >Click appropriate <IMG SRC="4b532320.gif" border=0 width="50" height="50" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"> or <IMG SRC="4b732320.gif" border=0 width="50" height="50" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></FONT></div> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="2" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="655" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 57 ><NOBR><div> <A HREF="id18.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="NEWS"><B><U><IMG SRC="4b232320.gif" border=0 width="50" height="50" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></U></B></A></div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP><NOBR><div> Report Of National Convention </div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP><NOBR><div>  <a href="HTMLobj-2519/STRENGTH_REPORT__17_June_2009.pdf"><img align="bottom" border="0" width="50" height="50" src="HTMLobj-2519/MarineCorpsLeague.gif"></a>  </div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="282"><div> Strength Report 06/17/2009</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 57 ><NOBR><div> <A HREF="http://www.military.com/MilitaryReport/0,12914,MR_Current,00.html" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.military.com/MilitaryReport/0"><B><U><IMG SRC="4ab32320.gif" border=0 width="50" height="50" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></U></B></A></div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP><NOBR><div> Veterans Benefits Newsletter</div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP><NOBR><div> <A HREF="http://www1.va.gov/opa/pressrel/pressarchinternet.cfm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www1.va.gov/opa/pressrel/pressarc"><B><U><IMG SRC="4b032320.gif" border=0 width="50" height="50" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></U></B></A></div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="282"><div> VA Press Releases</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 57 ><NOBR><div> <A HREF="http://www.state.nj.us/military/admin/highlights.html" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.state.nj.us/military/admin/hi"><IMG SRC="4b532320.gif" border=0 width="50" height="50" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></A></div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="233"><div> NJ Dept of Veterans Affairs Highlights</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP><NOBR><div> <A HREF="http://www.usmcmuseum.org/Store/MCHF/index.asp" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.usmcmuseum.org/Store/MCHF/ind"><B><U><IMG SRC="4b332320.gif" border=0 width="50" height="50" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></U></B></A></div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP><NOBR><div> Latest on Marine Corps Museum</div> </NOBR></tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 57 ><NOBR><div> <A HREF="http://www.va.gov/OPA/feature/" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.va.gov/OPA/feature/"><B><U><IMG SRC="4b532320.gif" border=0 width="50" height="50" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></U></B></A></div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP><NOBR><div> Federal Benefits for Vets</div> <div> Downloadable 2005 Pub</div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="56"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="57" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="56" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="282"><bR> <bR> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <div> <A HREF="#february_2006" TITLE="NEWS"> <a href="" target="_top" csb-linktype="URL"><img src="HTMLobj-2019/o.jpg" alt="TOP" border="0" align="bottom" csb-maintain-proportions="1" width="100" height="20" csb-button="Cap-Blue" csb-font="" csb-font-bold="False" csb-font-italic="False" csb-font-strikethrough="False" csb-font-underline="False" csb-font-size="8" csb-font-color-o="0" csb-font-color-h="0" csb-font-color-p="0" csb-font-horiz="Center" csb-font-verti="Center" csb-font-left="0" csb-font-top="0" csb-img-hover="1" csb-img-press="1" csb-img-preload="0" csb-img-backcolor="16777215" onmouseout="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2019/o.jpg'" onmouseover="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2019/h.jpg'" onmouseup="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2019/h.jpg'" onmousedown="javascript:this.src='HTMLobj-2019/p.jpg'"></a>  </A></div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <div>  </div> <bR> </td> <td valign="top" width=150 BGCOLOR="#333366" TEXT="#080000"> <div> Latest Marine Corps News</div> <bR> <div>  <script language=javascript src="http://www.rssfeedreader.com/rss3/rss.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.military.com%2Frss%2Fmarinenews.xml&newpage=1&chead=&atl=&desc=1&owncss=&eleminate=&auth=&dts=1&width=300&max=10&tlen=0&rnd=1&bt=3&bs=Double&nmb=&ntb=&naf=&nst=&nwd=0&nht=0&dlen=0&lstyle=-1&lc=Blue&bg=White&bc=Gray&spc=1&ims=&tc=&ts=9&tfont=Verdana,+Arial,+Sans-serif"></script>  </div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> </td> </tr></table></body>