American Cold War Veterans and Victims of Communism

We will be holding a joint ceremony to honor all Victims of Communism, and all American Veterans of the Cold War on June 14.



---- Jerald Terwilliger Chairman Emeritus American Cold War Veterans "We Remember" ---------------- "And so the greatest of American triumphs... became a peculiarly joyless victory. We had won the Cold War, but there would be no parades." -- Robert M. Gates, 1996

Another Cold War Veteran On A Mission

A Navy Veteran from Dixon, CA is in our battle to have Cold War
Veterans recognized. He has made it his quest to ensure that all Cold Warriors receive what they deserve.

He feels he is alone in this, but he is not, our organization American Cold War Veterans have been trying for 15 years or
more to convince Congress to authorize and DoD to issue a Cold War Service Medal.

This year the bill in the House of Representatives H.R. 1419
The Cold War Service Medal Act 2017 is the latest attempt to
reach this goal.

Please ask your Representative to cosponsor this bill and vote for passage. Ask all your family and friends to do the same. Also ask
both of your Senators to introduce a companion bill in the Senate.
From Another Veteran Trying For Cold War Recognition

---- Jerald Terwilliger Chairman Emeritus American Cold War Veterans "We Remember" ---------------- "And so the greatest of American triumphs... became a peculiarly joyless victory. We had won the Cold War, but there would be no parades." -- Robert M. Gates, 1996

Cold War Service Medal 2017

The struggle for recognition for Cold War Veterans continues, a fight that has been ongoing for at least 15 years.

On March 7 2017 Representative David Young, Republican  representing Iowa's third district introduced a new bill
H.R. 1419 The Cold War Service Medal 2017 that would
authorize a Cold War Medal to be issued to those who served
in the military between 1945 and 1991.

The long struggle to contain Communism cost many American
lives. Remember Korea and Vietnam were part of the  Cold War

In total there were over 81,481 battle deaths the Cold War ranks
as third most combat deaths. So the old line of "no shots were fired" is proven to be false and misleading.

Everyone in the United States (and much of the free world)
owes much to these brave men and women who placed their
lives in danger every day.

Contact your Congressman/woman ask them to cosponsor
this bill H.R. 1419 The Cold War  Service Medal Act 2017.
Also contact both of your Senators ask them to introduce a
companion bill in the Senate. And ask all your family and
friends to do the same. We need all the support we can get.

Those of you that belong to the VFW, American Legion,
AmVets or any other Veterans Service Organization, ask your
leadership to back the American Cold War Veterans in this
deserving and long delayed recognition and respect for
the Cold War Warriors.

The Cold War ended in 1991, 26 years is too long to wait for
these men and women to be told that what we did mattered
and we as a nation should thank all of them.

Let this be the year that our quest finally comes to fruition.

---- Jerald Terwilliger Chairman Emeritus American Cold War Veterans "We Remember" ---------------- "And so the greatest of American triumphs... became a peculiarly joyless victory. We had won the Cold War, but there would be no parades." -- Robert M. Gates, 1996

Veteran's I.D. Card-VA Answer To Question

Some of you may be aware of the bill H.R. 91 The Veteran's I.D. Card Act of 2015. This bill was passed by the House and the Senate and signed by President Obama becoming Public Law 114-31
on 07/20/2015.

This directs the Department of Veterans Affairs to issue a VA ID card to those veterans who did
not retire from our Armed Forces, nor are they enrolled in the VA Health Care System.

This is a simple ID Card, it does not entitle the bearer to VA benefits. It would be an easy way
for someone to prove that they are indeed a Veteran.

There are many business and enterprises that offer discounts to Active Duty and Veterans. For those
not covered by the retired/VA proof is usually a DD-214 which carry some information that many
do not want made public. So this ID Card is perfect, an official US Government issued method
of identification and verification of being a Veteran.

The bill as written said that within 60 the VA could begin to issue these cards.  More information can
be found in earlier posts, scroll down for that info.

I contacted the VA and questioned when the cards would be issued. Here is the response from the VA.

Recently you requested assistance from VA. Below is our response. If you wish to reopen this issue, you may do so within the next 14 days. Thank you for allowing us to be of service to you. Response By Email (Dept of Veterans Affairs) (09/02/2015 02:45 PM) While VA intends to issue Veteran ID cards to all veterans in the near future,we await more information and instructions on the issuance of these cards. At present, the Department of Veterans Affairs provides a Veterans Identification Card (VIC) for veterans to use at VA medical facilities. The VIC is issued only to veterans who are eligible for VA medical benefits and only for the purpose of identification and check-in for VA medical appointments. The card protects personal privacy by not showing Social Security Numbers or dates of birth on the front of the cards. VA has Service Connected, POW and Purple Heart (PH) indicators on the new VIC. Veterans who have been awarded service-connected status after their VIC has been issued or SC status is not properly documented on their card, will need to present their letter showing their SC rating to the eligibility clerk at the local VA Medical Center where they obtain treatment. After verification, the eligibility clerk will submit a request to National Card Management Directory (NCMD) System for a new card to be issued to the veteran. Once a veteran has his/her picture taken for the new card at the VA medical facility, the card will be mailed to the veteran at the address that has been provided. To ensure that a veteran receives the new VIC card, the veteran should please verify that VA has the correct address on file. If the U.S. Postal Service cannot deliver the card, it will be returned to the facility at which the card was requested. The card will then be held in a secure location at the facility for 90 days. If the card is not picked up within the 90-day period, the card will be destroyed. With regard to the use of veteran ID cards for store discounts, please note: If these are valid store discounts for Veterans, a Veteran's DD-214 and a driver's license or non-driver's license should be appropriate. The VIC is the only ID card offered for veterans by VA; if a store will not accept this proof of veteran status, please check with your State's division of Veterans Affairs to see if they offer this service. For all information about Veterans Identification Cards (what it is, how to get one, what to do if lost or stolen, when it can be used, etc.) go tohttp://www.va.gov/healthbenefits/vhic/ for details.

So it looks like the usual VA waiting game. I am guessing another 4 to 5 months. Remember the VFW was against this while the bill was in progress; and the VA seemed not to be in favor of it either.

---- Jerald Terwilliger Chairman Emeritus American Cold War Veterans "We Remember" ---------------- "And so the greatest of American triumphs... became a peculiarly joyless victory. We had won the Cold War, but there would be no parades." -- Robert M. Gates, 1996

New York Veterans To Receive Refund For Drivers License/State ID Card

New York Veterans who had the "Veterans" designation put on their Drivers License/State ID card will receive a
 rebate from the state.

When the "Veteran" designation was first available to be put on the drivers license/ID card on or
after Oct. 3, 2012 the state charged veterans

a fee of $12.50 for the "privilege" of having this included on the license/ID card.

Gov. Cuomo signed the bill in early August, but it has not yet taken effect. It is expected
 to be enacted soon.

The refunds will go to 10,834 veterans with an amount totaling $134,030. Those veterans
who paid the fee will not have to do anything

further, the Department of Motor Vehicles will issue the refunds automatically.

Thank you New York for doing the proper thing for our Veterans, the original fee
should never have been charged to begin with. Veterans

have given more than their fair share, and deserve the recognition and respect they have earned.

---- Jerald Terwilliger Chairman Emeritus American Cold War Veterans "We Remember" ---------------- "And so the greatest of American triumphs... became a peculiarly joyless victory. We had won the Cold War, but there would be no parades." -- Robert M. Gates, 1996

Pennsylvania District To Honor Cold War Veterans

In Pennsylvania, State Representative Martin Causer (R-Turtlepoint) has announced plans to Honor
Cold War Veterans from the 67th Legislative District; including Cameron, McKean, and Potter counties. If you live in this area you are invited to attend the ceremony. Contact information is
listed below, I hope all Cold War Veterans in the area join in the occasion.

Little things like this add up and it is a step in the right direction. Now if we could only grow this to a National level and have Congress take notice and stand up for Cold War Veterans.

It is the hope of the American Cold War Veterans to have the Cold War Service Medal issued to those who served during this long struggle to contain Communism, which we did do. Also in the future
plans are to have a Cold War Memorial built in Washington, DC

“The Cold War was a prolonged and very trying time in our nation’s history,” Causer said. “The men and women who served during this time played a vital role in preventing the spread of communism and preserving our democracy. They are certainly deserving of our thanks and appreciation.”

Causer is inviting veterans who served between Sept. 2, 1945, and Dec. 26, 1991, to take part in a recognition ceremony in Bradford this fall. To participate in the ceremony, veterans are asked to register by contacting Causer’s offices in Bradford (814-362-4400), Coudersport (814-274-9769) or Kane (814-837-0880), or sign up online at www.Rep.Causer.com.

The information requested will include the veteran’s name, address, contact information, branch of the armed services in which they served, rank and time of service. Widows or widowers of deceased service members are also invited to participate in the ceremony.

The event is open to all veterans residing in the 67th Legislative District, which includes Cameron, McKean and Potter counties, as well as their family members. Everyone who registers will be contacted with information about the ceremony when it is scheduled.

Causer previously hosted events to honor veterans of World War II, Korea and Vietnam. He plans to honor veterans who served in the Persian Gulf conflict and other subsequent operations in the future.

---- Jerald Terwilliger Chairman Emeritus American Cold War Veterans "We Remember" ---------------- "And so the greatest of American triumphs... became a peculiarly joyless victory. We had won the Cold War, but there would be no parades." -- Robert M. Gates, 1996

Now That Congress Is in Recess

The month of August is here, that means that Congress is in recess for the month; and everyone is back in their home state.

Now is the time to call the local office, closest to you, of your elected official. Ask for a meeting with said official. A chance to look them in the eye and present your case. Get your facts together first, then

put it on the table. 

Be polite, courteous and smile. Then discuss Veterans issues...VA problems, maybe your experience with VA; other general concerns about our Armed Forces and Veterans, our US Military and the budget crisis.

Then....ask your Representative to cosponsor H.R. 2067 The Cold War Service Medal Act of 2015 and be sure to vote for passage when it reaches the floor for a vote.

Ask BOTH of your Senators to introduce an identical bill in the Senate. We need it on both sides to gain any traction. It is too late to have it included in the NDAA, so stand alone bills from the House and the Senate have to happen.

If anyone seems a little wishy-washy about it ASK THEM WHY NOT. 

Also ask for an investigation into the USS LIberty and the coverup. There has never been an official Congressional investigation into the murder of 34 Americans and wounding of another 174. 

An attack by the IDF (Israel Defense Force) on a clearly marked American

ship; practically unarmed,  with the purpose of killing all onboard and sinking the ship.

We as Cold War Veterans have been waiting since 1991 for recognition, it is time. The USS Liberty 

Veterans have been waiting since 1967 to get the truth, to finally know the why and the who.

DoD did have a very quick and brief investigation and called it a case of "mistaken identity."

The huge America Flag flying from the mast, and the big hull numbers on the side meant 

nothing to those who attacked the Liberty.

Write the letters, send the faxes, send the emails, make the phone calls, make the visits;  do it often.

Remember that you can visit or call the local office anytime. You can call the DC office and

ask to speak to their Veterans/Military aide and tell them what you want them to know.

---- Jerald Terwilliger Chairman Emeritus American Cold War Veterans "We Remember" ---------------- "And so the greatest of American triumphs... became a peculiarly joyless victory. We had won the Cold War, but there would be no parades." -- Robert M. Gates, 1996

Peace Cross Bladensburg, MD

The battle to save the Bladensburg Cross is still going on.

The Bladensburg Cross was dedicated in 1925 to honor 49 men from Prince George's County
that perished in WWI. The Memorial was funded by local residents and The American Legion.
It is now owned by the Maryland National Capital Park and Planning Commission.

The Memorial is listed as a nomination on the National Register of Historic Places by the
Prince George's County Historic Preservation Committee in April 2015.  The Peace Cross
is listed as an Historic Place, but is not yet listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The American Humanist Association and three individuals filed a lawsuit in 2014 asking that
the Memorial be removed because of its implied religious nature as a Christian symbol, thus
violating their Constitutional rights. The Cross is located on property owned by the State
of Maryland; and the plaintiffs said it goes against the First Amendment.

A very brave woman Renee Green is spearheading the effort to save the Memorial. In an
interview she said "In order for people to make a decision, they had to know the history.
They have to understand it." Green went on to say "It's a WWI Memorial dedicated to the
49 men who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. It represents peace."

In January 2015 Renee Green submitted another application for the Memorial Peace
Cross to be nominated to the National Register and it was accepted.

Although the Memorial's application has been accepted this does not stop the lawsuit, so
it will continue to drag out for some time.

More information can be found at www.savethepeacecross.com
There is also an official Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Save-The-Peace-Cross/1539886132901090

Our Veterans should never have a Memorial or Monument that is dedicated to those who served
our country moved or violated in any manner. Those who served did so at the risk of
their lives, and so many did give their lives to protect our Nation.

---- Jerald Terwilliger Chairman Emeritus American Cold War Veterans "We Remember" ---------------- "And so the greatest of American triumphs... became a peculiarly joyless victory. We had won the Cold War, but there would be no parades." -- Robert M. Gates, 1996

Mt. Soledad Cross Memorial Saved

This should be an end to the long and costly fight to save the Mt. Soledad Cross.

The Mt. Soledad Memorial Association purchased the land where the Cross is located from
the Department of Defense to save the 43 foot cross that had been erected in 1954.

The battle began in the late 1980s, when the ACLU and the Jewish War Veterans sued to have
the cross removed; saying that it was against their constitutional rights. Claiming it violated the
separation of Church and State.

It is not proper that the Association should have been forced to purchase the land from the
government.

Preserving this monument which is a tribute to all fallen members of our Armed
Forces, which is part of a larger memorial with over 3,700 plaques honoring veterans of
various wars.

At a price of $1.4 million the land consists of one-half acre that surrounds the Cross it seems
like a very costly venture, but one that is well deserved to honor our fallen veterans.

California Representative Duncan Hunter and Senator Dianne Feinstein were instrumental
in writing and the passage of legislation that made this possible.

In a related attack on a memorial, in 2012 a court ruled that the Mohave Desert Cross owned
by the National Parks Service could be sold to the VFW. The VFW will maintain the Cross.

All our nation's veterans should hail this victory and the ensured safety of another Memorial
to our fallen brothers and sisters.

---- Jerald Terwilliger Chairman Emeritus,  American Cold War Veterans "We Remember" ---------------- "And so the greatest of American triumphs... became a peculiarly joyless victory. We had won the Cold War, but there would be no parades." -- Robert M. Gates, 1996

Veteran's I.D. Card Update -Veterans Affairs

On July 20, 2015 President Obama signed into law H.R. 91 The Veteran's I.D. Card Act of 2015.

This directs the VA to issue an ID card to those who served honorably in the Armed Forces.

This is just for identification and to prove you are actually a veteran. It does not grant any VA benefits
or access to military bases.

For the many business and private enterprises that offer discounts to veterans and service members, most of whom require proof of service, this should make things easier. It will be a federal issued
ID, and you will no longer have to carry a copy of your DD-214.

The bill as written said that VA could begin to issue the card in 60 days. VA will have to make sure
that all plans are in place and they are ready to go. It might take a little longer than that

For some reason it appears that the VFW was against this idea, claiming it would further burden
the VA. The American Legion while not against the ID Card stated some of the same things as
the VFW.

There was also a member of the VA who spoke against the card in a Congressional meeting. So
that might make things a little more difficult.

To obtain the ID Card you will have to go to the VA with copy of your DD-214 and pay a small
fee, which has yet to be determined. So this makes it cost neutral to the government.

As more plans are finalized the VA should publish information on availability and procedures needed,
places to obtain this card.


---- Jerald Terwilliger Chairman American Cold War Veterans "We Remember" ---------------- "And so the greatest of American triumphs... became a peculiarly joyless victory. We had won the Cold War, but there would be no parades." -- Robert M. Gates, 1996

H.R. 91 Veteran's I.D. Card Act of 2015

The House of Representatives recently passed a bill H.R. 91 The Veteran's I.D. Card Act of 2015.

This bill would direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to issue an Identification Card to any veteran
who asks for it.

There are many business and social establishments that offer discounts or free services to members
of the Armed Forces and/or Veterans.

Veterans who fulfilled the required length of service to retire, and those Veterans who are enrolled
in the VA Health Care system are issued Identification Cards as proof of service.

Any Veteran who did not retire, or is no in the VA Health Care does not have a valid Identification
Card, and must provide a copy of their DD-214 as proof of service.

The DD-214 is cumbersome to carry and also contains certain information that the Veteran may
not want to provide.

A valid Identification Card issued by the U.S. Government would eliminate the need to carry a
copy of a DD-214 and would serve as proof of military service.

The VA already has across the country a means in place to provide and ID Card. It would be a simple and expedient manner to manufacture and distribute such a card.

This would be at not cost to the government. The Secretary would determine the cost to provide
such an ID card; and that cost would be paid by the Veterans requesting this card.

The bill was sent to the Senate for consideration. After adding an amendment, the bill was passed.
Now the bill must go back to the House since the two bills are not identical.

The office of the bill's author Representative Vern Buchanan stated that the bill should be passed
in the House quickly and sent to President Obama for final approval.




---- Jerald Terwilliger Former Chairman American Cold War Veterans "We Remember" ---------------- "And so the greatest of American triumphs... became a peculiarly joyless victory. We had won the Cold War, but there would be no parades." -- Robert M. Gates, 1996

H.R. 501 Veterans And Service Members Employment Rights and Housing Act of 2015

An important piece of legislation now in the House of Representatives will help ensure fair and equal treatment of Veterans and Military members

avoid potential discrimination in the housing market and in the workforce.

Everyone please contact your Representative ask them to become cosponsor to bill H.R. 501 Veterans and Service Members Employment Rights and

Housing Act of 2015.

Many active duty service members, and many veterans, face difficulty in obtaining Housing due to the fact that it is still a commonly held

opinion that said members or veterans might turn dangerous at some point.

The same outdated beliefs apply in the job market. Veterans return from active duty to find in some cases that the job they held before

military service no longer exists (or has been filled..etc). 

Some veterans, (or active duty personnel seeking additional employment) have struggled for years in hopeless search for a job. Employers find

it difficult to accept military training as equal to civilian job skills.

Other employers may in fact think that an active duty, or former military member would be disruptive to their current workforce, and

might become violent at any moment. 

H.R. 501 would make it illegal to discriminate against anyone for their military service, in the workplace or in housing 

There are currently several dozen bills in the House addressing discrimination with many cosponsors. It is important that this bill to address

citizens in the Veteran Community and all members of our Armed Forces be acted upon quickly. It is time to protect the men and women

who protected our nation.

Our friends and brothers and sisters in arms, members of AMVETS agree and believe that this important legislation should have

every Representative sign on as cosponsors and that this bill should be passed immediately.

---- Jerald Terwilliger Chairman American Cold War Veterans "We Remember" ---------------- "And so the greatest of American triumphs... became a peculiarly joyless victory. We had won the Cold War, but there would be no parades." -- Robert M. Gates, 1996

H.R. 2067 Cold War Service Medal Act of 2015

A new bill H.R. 2067 introduced by Representative Steve Israel and 7 other members of the House
of Representatives on April 28, 2015 would authorize a Cold War Service Medal.

Please contact your Representative asking him/her to become a cosponsor to H.R. 2067 The Cold
War Service Medal Act of 2015. It is very important that members of Congress see that there is
strong support for this bill and medal within the Veteran Community. Veterans are a very large
voting block and if enough veterans reach out to their elected official, said officials will take notice.

Cold War Veterans have been attempting to have this medal authorized for several years. Bills have
been introduced in both the Senate and the House, these bills have been read and the  sent to the
Armed Services Committee of the Senate/House for further consideration.

There have been provisions written into the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to
authorize the medal. In 2001 the NDAA included such a provision. The wording of that provision
was that "the Secretary "may" issue a Cold War Medal. At that time the Department of Defense (DoD)
declined to allow the medal to be issued.

DoD has objected on two main issues: Cost, DoD has vastly over estimated the cost of issuing this
medal. Not every Cold War Veterans would apply for the medal at one time. It would take several
years for word to spread, and many veterans might not even apply for the medal. So this objection
is not strong enough to deny the medal.

The other reason DoD has objected is "duplication of awards" There have been instances when
both the Armed Forces Service Medal and the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal have been
issued. So this objection also is meaningless and invalid.

Another fallacy is "not a shot was fired", many lives were lost during America's Longest War,
lasting from Sept. 1945 to Dec. 1991. Communist forces shot down our planes from the sky,
our ships were attacked, troops on the ground were attacked. There are still over 120 Missing
In Action fromt he Cold War.

America won the Cold War, we stopped the spread of Communism and freed millions of people
from the oppressive regimes they suffered under.

President George H.W. Bush and many other leaders of our nation and other countries all
have made comments abut the end of The Cold War.

Now some 24 years after the end of the Cold War our veterans are still not recognized or
remembered. Often Cold Warriors are told they are not "veterans" as they did not serve
in a combat zone.

Yet the many places where American blood was spilled, and lives were lost, Armed Forces
members injured or captured can not be ignored. Do not forget that Korea, Vietnam and
other "Hot Spots" were all part of the Cold War.

Our numbers are steadily declining as we grow older and depart this mortal plane. Is that why
DoD continues to block all attempts for recognition-they are just waiting for us all to pass away?

So now is the time, contact your Representative asking them to cosponsor H.R. 2067 The
Cold War Service Medal Act of 2015 and urge for the bill to be brought to the full floor for
a vote; and vote for passage.

Also contact both of your Senators asking them to introduce a bill with the wording of
H.R. 2067.




---- Jerald Terwilliger,  Chairman Emeritus,  American Cold War Veterans "We Remember" ---------------- "And so the greatest of American triumphs... became a peculiarly joyless victory. We had won the Cold War, but there would be no parades." -- Robert M. Gates, 1996

Cold War Service Medal Act 2015

On April 28, 2015 Congressman Steve Israel (D-NY3), and Congressman David Jolly(R-FL13)
introduced a new bill H.R. 2067 The Cold War Service Medal Act 2015.

This bill was introduced with 7 cosponsors, and has been sent to the House Armed Services Committee.

The Cold War was waged for more than 45 years as the United States and our allies combated
the spread of Communism, from 1945 through 1991.

There were many lives lost in this decades long battle. Despite the common misconception that
"Not a shot was fired", our planes were shot down from the sky by Communist forces, our ships
were attacked and damaged, troops on the ground were attacked and killed and or wounded

Korea, Vietnam, the Congo, Lebanon, Granada, Panama, Dominican Republic and many other
"hot spots" were all a part of the Cold War.

Many members of the Armed Forces were placed in dangerous and difficult situations on a daily
basis; often during missions that even today remain classified, and we were not; and still not
allowed to speak of what we did to family or friends.

Now, more than 25 years since the downfall of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War;
we should finally bestow on our veterans the thanks of a grateful nation. It is time to offer these
veterans the respect and honor they so deserve.

Contact your Congressman/Congresswoman urging them to become a cosponsor to H.R. 2067
and demand the bill be brought to the full floor for a vote, and vote for passage.

Please also contact your Senator asking them to introduce a similar bill in the Senate immediately,
let us not wait another year, do it now.


No longer allow our Cold Warriors to be a forgotten and dismissed generation of veterans.



---- Jerald Terwilliger Former  Chairman American Cold War Veterans "We Remember" ---------------- "And so the greatest of American triumphs... became a peculiarly joyless victory. We had won the Cold War, but there would be no parades." -- Robert M. Gates, 1996

2014 Cold War Medal

On June 5, 2014 Congressman Steve Israel of New York introduced a bill to authorize the Cold War
Service Medal. It if H.R. 4807 The Cold War Service Medal Act of 2014.

We all know how important this is to our Cold Warriors, as our numbers are declining due to age.
The Cold War ended 23 years ago, and we are still waiting and petitioning Congress and DoD to
authorize and issue the Cold War Service Medal.

Please contact your Representative ask them to cosponsor H.R. 4807. You can go to their website
and leave an email, get their phone number and call their office, write a regular mail letter (be advised
it may take two weeks to get delivered), ask for a visit at either their Washington office or the local office in your area.

You can also go to POPVOX here https://www.popvox.com/bills/us/113/hr4807
You wil have to create an account if you do not already have one. Then you can post your comments
and it will be sent directly to your Representative.

Then contact both of your Senators ask them to introduce legislation similar to H.R. 4807.

We need a big push from everyone to get this accomplished. I have been told in the past that there
was not enough support from veterans in the past and is a possible reason the previous bills never
got through the Armed Services Committee in both the Senate and House.

Lets make this the year this medal finally becomes a reality, and all our brave men and women
finally get the recognition we have been seeking for so many years.

America: It Is Time To Say Thank You to our veterans.

---- Jerald Terwilliger Chairman American Cold War Veterans "We Remember" ---------------- "And so the greatest of American triumphs... became a peculiarly joyless victory. We had won the Cold War, but there would be no parades." -- Robert M. Gates, 1996

Cold War Veteran Honors Fellow Cold Warriors

Press of Atlantic City

By LUCIA C. DRAKE, Staff Writer

Robert Haller will spend this Memorial Day as he has for many years, remembering and honoring all members of the American military.

But there is one group of veterans in particular that the Egg Harbor Township resident thinks about especially at this time of year: those he refers to as the Cold War veterans.

A South Jersey native, Haller is himself a Cold War veteran, serving in the U.S. Navy and in the U.S. Merchant Marine from 1974 to 1992.

Haller served in Operation TAGOS, a mission to collect underwater acoustic data in support of Cold War anti-submarine warfare operations during the 1980s.

It is his belief that the Cold War with the former Soviet Union is too often overlooked in history, and the dangerous work done by those enlisted men and women in the early days of nuclear activity and the Iron Curtain has gone widely unrecognized.

Now semi-retired, he feels compelled to get more support for Cold War veterans and to show how important they were in this country's fight against terrorism.

"Those were dangerous missions, and our job was to protect the United States of America," Haller, 57, said recently from his home. "I voluntarily served because I love my country so much. I have always lived by the code of duty, honor and country."

Mostly, he said, he would like to see credit given that is justly due.

The author of two books, "Life of a Bluenose" (2006) and "Adventures of a Cold War Veteran" (2009), Haller has spent years lobbying the Department of Defense for legislation to authorize a Cold War Victory Medal for veterans.

Commemorative Cold War medals are available for sale by private vendors, and Congress did issue a certificate in 1999, but to date there is no official congressional medal, he said.

"I just feel so strongly about the work we did," said Haller, who served aboard the sub-hunter USNS Stalwart and achieved the rank of QMED, the highest unlicensed position in the Merchant Marines, before becoming an officer. "We were the first lines of defense during the height of the Cold War."

With U.S. troops still fighting terrorism, an official Cold War medal would validate the important role men and women in the armed services provided at that time, he said.

In writing of his military service, his goal was to educate readers about the sacrifices members of the military made in the fight against communism.

A member of the American Legion, AmVets, the Navy League and Knights of Columbus, as well as an associate member of several F.O.P. lodges, Haller said he knows what it's like to experience post-traumatic stress and hopes his insights can help other veterans.

An avid writer of fiction, poetry and commentary, Haller also dabbles in art work and plays classical violin. He is working on another military memoir about the Cold War, which he said might be called "Life of a Bluenose, Part II."

"There's a lot to get off my chest, a lot of things that need to be said on behalf of all Cold War vets," he explained.

When he raises his American flag this Memorial Day, as he does daily, Haller said he will offer a silent prayer for all service members who gave so much to help make possible the freedoms every American enjoys today.

---- Jerald Terwilliger Chairman American Cold War Veterans "We Remember" ---------------- "And so the greatest of American triumphs... became a peculiarly joyless victory. We had won the Cold War, but there would be no parades." -- Robert M. Gates, 1996

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America It Is Time To Recognize And Honor Cold War Veteans

Cold War Veterans in the United States have been ignored, disrespected and forgotten since the
end of the Cold War.

The American Cold War Veterans have been attempting to convince Congress to authorize and direct DoD to issue a Cold War Medal, so far we have been unable to get that done.

Another of our goals is to have a Cold War Memorial built in Washington, DC to honor all those
who served during America's Longest War, even if it was undeclared. We have not yet seen that
come to fruition.

Well, it seems that we are getting beaten again, Russia is going to erect a Cold War Memorial
before we get ours out of the planning stage

A memorial commemorating Soviet soldiers who died in conflicts around the world during the Cold War era will be built on Poklonnaya Hill in Moscow. 

Russian lawmaker Frantz Klintsevich told journalists on February 11 that the memorial will form an architectural ensemble around an existing monument honoring some 15,000 Soviet soldiers who died during the Soviet war in Afghanistan from 1979 to 1989.

According to Klintsevich, the names of about 10,000 Soviet soldiers who perished in conflicts in other countries will be inscribed on stone tablets along the alley leading to the memorial complex, which will be completed this summer.

The Soviet Union was involved in more than 30 conflicts in some 29 countries, including Afghanistan, Angola, Ethiopia, Yemen, and Nigeria.

----

So now once again we say Wake Up America. Stand up for our veterans, it is past time to

honor and recognize these brave men and women.

---- Jerald Terwilliger Chairman American Cold War Veterans "We Remember" ---------------- "And so the greatest of American triumphs... became a peculiarly joyless victory. We had won the Cold War, but there would be no parades." -- Robert M. Gates, 1996

Military Veterans Serving In Congress Decline Again

Perhaps the biggest reason that Congress is ignoring or downplaying our military and our
veterans is the fact that each year fewer and fewer Members are veterans or still serving
in the military

The 113th Congress now is session has only 108 members or 20 percent that are veterans or
still serving in our military. That figure is 10 less than the 112th Congress.

These numbers break down to 88 veterans in the House-this includes 2 female Members and also
2 delegates. The Senate has 18 veterans of Military Service.

According to lists from GQ Roll Coll, these Members have served during WWII, Korean War, Vietnam War, Persian Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, Kosovo as well as during times of peace
(read Cold War). Many have served in the Reserves and National Guard.

Eight House Members and one Senator are still serving in the Reserves, and six House Members
are still serving in the National Guard. Of special interest, Both female veterans are Combat
Veterans.

The diminishing numbers of veterans follow the steady decline of the number of Members who
have served in the military. In 1981-1982 the 97th Congress 64 percent were veterans, and in
1971-1972 the 92nd Congress 73 percent were veterans.

So, as the number of veterans in Congress declines, so to does the number who would look
favorably on current military and our veterans.

It also means that fewer understand the Cold War and it's meaning. The Cold War gets pushed
further into the corner of darkness, neglect, and indifference.

And, the chances for a Cold War Service Medal seem to shrink exponentially, it seems that
no one wants to remember the Cold War. No on except those veterans who placed their lives on
the line and faced danger every day in places far from home in harsh and trying times. Never
sure if "this is a drill" or if "the ballon went up."

The number of Cold War Veterans is also rapidly declining, as age creeps up on us and silently
steals away one more life, leaving one less voice to be heard that wants to tell our story.

Before the last Cold War Veteran passes away America it is time to say Thank You to these
brave men and women.

Urge Congress that this year our nation will remember and recognize these veterans. Ask your
elected officials to introduce legislation that will authorize and DIRECT DoD to issue
a Cold War Service Medal.

Yes, bills have been introduced in the past, but they either are removed during the House/Senate
Committee meetings, or even worse: lie on the desk in their respective Armed Services Committee
and never get to see the light of day; are never brought forth for a vote.

---- Jerald Terwilliger Chairman American Cold War Veterans "We Remember" ---------------- "And so the greatest of American triumphs... became a peculiarly joyless victory. We had won the Cold War, but there would be no parades." -- Robert M. Gates, 1996

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American Cold War Veterans Convention with USS Liberty Veterans

Update: See changes made in RED

There will be a $25.00 charge for the lunch on Saturday that follows the
membership meeting. 

We have made some changes this year for our Annual Meeting and Commemoration. This 

year it will be  held June 6-8 in Washington, DC

 We will lay a wreath at the Victims of Communism Memorial in honor of all those who suffered and 

died during the long struggle under the Communist regime.

We will also be joining with the USS Liberty Veterans Association in their 

Memorial Service for those lost during the attack on the USS Liberty on June 8, 1967.

American Cold War Veterans Annual Meeting and Commemoration-06-08 June 2014

USS Liberty Veterans Association Commemoration

Business meetings, luncheon and address to be held at the Rosslyn Holiday Inn, 

1900 Fort Myer Drive, Arlington, Virginia 22209.

A special room rate of $89.00 is available to conferees. For those who wish to arrive

 early the room rate has been extended

it is now available from June 5 thru June 8 (with checkout June 9 at 12PM)

Please contact the hotel direct at (703) 807-2000 for reservations.  Mention that you 

are with the American Cold War Veterans

 If asked the block code is ACW

The hotel contact Ms. Melanie Smith may be reached by e-mail at 

Melanie.Smith@HIRosslyn.com

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Friday, June 06, 2014

9:00 am-12:00 pm 12:00 pm-1:00 pm 1:30 pm-2:00 pm 3:00 pm-7:00 pm 7:00 pm-9:00 pm

Congressional Visits Lunch-Dubliner Wreath-Laying: Victims of Communism Memorial Registration and Check-In at Holiday Inn Rosslyn Dinner (on your own) Hospitality

Saturday, June 07, 2014

7:30 am to 8:00 am	Breakfast
8:00 am to 10:00 am	Opening of ACWV Business Meeting
10:00 am to 10:30 am	Break
10:30 am to 12:00 pm	ACWV Business Meeting Continues
12:00 pm to 1:30 pm	Lunch-Speaker (tentative): Marion Smith, Executive Dir. Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation
1:30 pm to 2:00 pm	Transit to Arlington Cemetery Cold War Commemoration;  USS Liberty Commemoration
2:00 pm to 4:00 pm	Arlington Cemetery Cold War Commemoration;  USS Liberty Commemoration
4:00 pm to 4:30 pm	Transit to Holiday Inn Rosslyn
5:00 pm to 6:00 pm	Informal Social Hour Followed by Dinner-TBD

Sunday, June 08, 2014

7:30 am to 9:30 am	Breakfast and Religious Observance
9:30 am to 10:15 am	Transit to US Navy Memorial
10:00 am to 10:30 am	Break
11:30 am to 12:30 pm	Commemoration of the USS Liberty and Wreath-Laying- U.S. Navy Memorial
12:30 pm to 1:30 pm	Lunch
1:30 pm to 3:00 pm	Check Out-Holiday Inn Rosslyn
	EVENT COORDINATOR: CH (COL) Charles H. Nalls,  cnalls@canonlaw.org; 202-262-5519

We hope to see you there. If you plan to attend please advise Fr. Charles Nalls cnalls@cannonlaw.org, Frank Tims ftims@aol.com, Al Lepine

ajlepine@roadrunner.com or myself Jerry Terwilliger jerterw@hotmail.com

--- Jerald Terwilliger Chairman American Cold War Veterans "We Remember" ---------------- "And so the greatest of American triumphs... became a peculiarly joyless victory. We had won the Cold War, but there would be no parades." -- Robert M. Gates, 1996