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which won second place nationally from VVA. We plan and hold events for members and friends. We support veterans in the community.”
“And, through the national organization we make sure Vietnam veterans get quality health care through the Department of Veterans Affairs. It also assures continuation of DVA’s Vet Centers, is initiating legislation to appeal DVA claims decisions, and to assure services for those veterans exposed to toxic substances, and continues to work toward a full accounting for all MIAs and POWs.”
Local chapter member Ellis “Bootie” Smith said, “Finding and joining the VVA chapter here is probably the second or third best things to happen to me in my life.”
Sam said there are still issues about the war in Vietnam which separate people and he is a case in point. “My brother said he’d have gone to Canada if he’d been drafted. I lost my biological brother over the war. But, I gained another brother , when I met Bootie. I found the brother I’d always wanted.”
Sam said the commitment and level of involvement locally has surprised the state chapter. “Lou James, my mentor, is former state council president and the one who guided us in starting our chapter. But we surprised him, even national couldn’t believe we got off the ground so fast. He said we’ve done more than some chapters which go back 10 years.”
The VVA state convention will take place the week of June 21 in Richmond at the Holiday Inn on Broad Street. Jay Katzen, (R-31st) and John J. “Butch” Davies, (D-30th) will be speakers at the convention. Mr. Katzen is a member of the VVA.
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