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

VA Issued Veterans ID Card

At long last the VA will begin to issue a photo Veterans ID Card to every honorably discharged Veteran. You do not need to be enrolled in the VA Health Care system.

We have pushed for this for many years, and in 2015 Congress finally approved it. The VA plans to begin issuing these ID Cards
in November, almost two years after the bill was passed and
signed into law.

This means that you will no longer have to carry a copy of your
DD-214 with you to prove you are a veteran. This will come in
handy in the many places that offer special terms or discounts for military and veterans.

More information from Military dot com
Veterans Photo ID Card


---- 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

Press Release for Cold War Service Medal H.R. 2067

Here is the Press Release from Representative Steve Israel
As of today Fri May 22 there are 13 cosponsors to H.R. 2067
Please continue to contact your Representative to become cosponsor. Ask both of your Senators to introduce similar legislation in the Senate

News Release

Rep. Israel Recognizes Memorial Day and Honors Forgotten Heroes of the Cold War

Joins Local Veterans to Announce Bipartisan Legislation to Create Cold War Service Medal

Up to 35 Million Service Members May be Eligible for the Medal

Hicksville, NY— Congressman Steve Israel (D-Huntington) joined Nassau County Legislator Rose Marie Walker, Commander Bill Walden and over a dozen Long Island veterans to recognize Memorial Day, which falls on Monday, May 25^th, and announce the introduction of legislation to honor members of the U.S. Armed Forces who served during the Cold War.

For generations, the United States has honored combat veterans or veterans of foreign wars proudly, but has failed to properly recognize the veterans who served during the Cold War in order to prevent a nuclear war. According to the U.S. Department of Defense, an estimated 35 million service members may be eligible for the medal.

“On Memorial Day we honor and remember the generations of brave Americans that selflessly gave their lives in defense of our freedoms,” saidRep. Steve Israel. “Today I ask that as a country we honor those forgotten veterans who bravely served our country during the Cold War without parades, celebrations or so much as a public thanks.  It is long past time that they receive the proper recognition that they deserve for protecting our country, and the world, from the grip of communism and nuclear war. New Yorkers have a long and storied tradition of honoring our veterans, and presenting these men and women with the medal they have earned is the least we can do to recognize their courage and sacrifice.”;

“As Vice Chair of the Veterans and Senior Affairs Committee, I thank Congressman Israel for his tireless work to support our veterans in Nassau County and across New York. Cold War Veterans have been overlooked for far too long and this medal will be a major step in helping them receive the recognition they deserve,” saidNassau County Legislator Rose Marie Walker.

“I am proud to join Congressman Israel in supporting a Cold War Service Medal because the men and women who served during the Cold War answered the call to protect our nation just like the veterans that came before them. Presenting them with a medal to honor their service will help future generations remember that their sacrifice helped prevent the next world war,” saidBill Walden, Commander of the Hicksville VFW.

North Shore LIJ Veterans Program Specialist Anthony Silvera said, “I want to personally thank Congressman Israel for giving me and the millions of other men and women who served during the Cold War the opportunity to be recognized for our service. This medal is a symbol for generations to come of our commitment to our country and our country’s commitment to our veterans.”;

"'Cold War' is a term that perhaps invites stereotypes, but involved many shades of warfare-conventional and unconventional, open and in the shadows. We served in places most of the world never heard of and in locations that routinely made headlines. Our numbers include volunteers and draftees, active duty service members, reservists and members of the National Guard.  For 46 years, Cold War veterans served with pride and honor around the globe as guardians of America's freedom.  Sometimes, the Cold War turned very hot, and we accepted that risk. Now we, our families, and our friends welcome the introduction of the Cold War Service Medal Act of 2015 by Rep. Steve Israel  to insure that the service and sacrifice of  Cold War veterans is understood, remembered, and recognized,” saidCharles H. Nalls, Director, American Cold War Veterans.  

Rep. Israel’s bipartisan legislation, The Cold War Service Medal Act of 2015 (H.R. 2067), creates the Cold War Service Medal, for members of the U.S. Armed Forces who were honorably discharged after having served on active duty during the Cold War, including service during the Korean and Vietnam wars. Eligible veterans must haveserved on active duty for at least 24 consecutive months during the Cold War, which spans from September 2, 1945 to December 26, 1991, deployed outside the continental United States for at least 30 days during that period, or performed other Cold War service as the Secretary of Defense may prescribe. 

Since joining Congress, Rep. Israel has been an advocate for local veterans, securing more than $8.1 million in overdue payments for Long Island veterans, and supporting improvements for veteran’s health care and veteran’s benefits.

##


---- 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

Registration Form For American Cold War Veterans Convention

REGISTRATION-AMERICAN COLD WAR VETERANS CONFERENCE AND COMMEMORATION

April 30-May 1, 2015

Washington D.C.

Name:

Address:

Telephone:

E-Mail:

For Arlington Cemetery memorial-Pass Required to Enter Post

Automobile year, color, make, model:

Tag number and state:

If you can you take passengers, how many?

ACWV Member: [ ] Yes [ ] No

Luncheon Buffet only [ ] $25.00

Dinner Buffet only [ ] $35.95

Full event (both meals) [ ] $65.00

Please make checks payable to ACWV and mail to CH (COL) Charles H. Nalls 9329 Harvey Road Silver Spring, Maryland 20910 by 25 April 2015 Questions: acwvdc@outlook.com Phone: (Chaplain Nalls’ Office) 1-888-312-8884

This form does not guarantee a hotel reservation. Please contact the Holiday Inn Rosslyn 1900 Fort Myer Drive, Arlington, VA 22209 Phone 703-807-2000 ext 2200 Fax: 703-522-7480 A special room rate of $99.00 plus tax per night you must mention American Cold War Veterans when making your reservation. Hotel reservations must be made by March 30, 2015.

---- 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

American Cold War Veterans Convention 2015

American Cold War Veterans

Annual Meeting and Commemoration 2015

“We Remember”

30 April-01 May

Washington, D.C.

Holiday Inn Rosslyn

1900 North Fort Myer Drive, Arlington VA 22209

703-807-2000 ext. 2200; 703-522-7480 fax

A special rate of $99.00 (+tax) is available to attendees.

Please mention the American Cold War Veterans when making your reservation.

Room reservations must be made no later than 30 March 2015.

Conference Buffet Luncheon: $21.95/person; Conference Banquet: $35.95/person; Business Meeting Only-25.00; Full Event (both meals) $65.00

Event Schedule

Thursday, April 30, 2015

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-Please Contact Conference Coordinator Lunch-Dubliner Pub Phoenix Park Hotel, 4 F St NW, Washington, DC 20001 Wreath-Laying: Victims of Communism Memorial-Confirmed Speaker Marion Smith, Executive Director, Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation Memorial located at: Massachusetts and New Jersey Avenues and G Street, NW Registration and Check-In at Holiday Inn Rosslyn Dinner (on your own) Hospitality

Friday, May 01, 2015

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--Confirmed Speaker-Dr. Lee Edwards, Chairman, Victims of Communism
1:30 pm to 2:00 pm	Memorial Foundation; Distinguished Fellow, Heritage Foundation Transit to Arlington Cemetery Cold War Commemoration- Section 34, Arlington
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; Dinner-Speaker LtGen Jack Klimp, USMC (ret.) President, National Association of Uniformed Services

Saturday, May 02, 2015

7:30 am to 9:30 am	Breakfast for those staying over
9:30 am	Check Out-Holiday Inn Rosslyn
	Conference Coordinator (e-mail preferred): ACWV Legislative Director CH (COL) Charles H. Nalls 1-888-312-8884 (office) acwvdc@outlook.com

---- 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

Hearts, minds opened to needs of TN veterans at Mount Carmel Veterans Memorial Dedication/Cold War Medal Presentation - The Rogersville Review: News

Hearts, minds opened to needs of TN veterans at Mount Carmel Veterans Memorial Dedication/Cold War Medal Presentation - The Rogersville Review: News



Slowly recognition for the brave men and women who served our nation during the Cold War. Now if only it would spread to the national level and Congress authorize and DoD issue the Cold War Service Medal. Ask you Representative to cosponsor H.R. 4807. Ask you Senators to introduce similar legislation in the Senate to finally recognize and honor our Cold War Veterans.



 ----Jerald Terwilliger ChairmanAmerican 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

Russia To Reopen Intelligence Gathering Facility in Cuba

It appears that Russia will reopen the intelligence gathering facility in Cuba. According to reports
President Putin and the Castro brothers have signed an agreement that will allow Russia to reopen the
Lourdes Signal Intelligence (SIGINT) near Havana.

It was once the largest such facility that the Soviet Union operated outside of Russia, and was
operated by more than 1,500 KGB, GRU and Cuban DGI operatives.

It was able to monitor and intercept a vast amount of commercial and government communications,
covering the southeast U.S. as well as communications between the U.S. and Europe.

Russia was able to monitor and copy commercial satellites communications as well as United
States military, merchant shipping and also NASA space programs.

It should be made clear that now the U.S. Central Command, Souther Command and Special
Forces Command are all located in Florida.

Russia closed the facility in 2001, but in recent years has been negotiating with Cuba to reopen
the facility and it now seems that the deal has been finalized.

Russian President Putin had said that the "goodwill gesture" was not appreciated by the
United States, so Russia now plans to reopen and modernize the facility.

With new and modern equipment it will take far fewer personnel to operate and will be
able to cover a wider area and receive much more information.

So, now Russia will be in the spy game very close to the U.S., and with Russia planning
to become more active in Central and South America, one has to question the reasoning
behind all this.

Putin has said he does not want to start another Cold War, but as Russia continues to
grow their military and introduce new weapons and equipment, the rest of the world
would do well to watch very closely how things progress.

---- 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