The Heinzen-Ditter & American Legions Veterans Program was a Success!

On Nov. 9, 2019, Dean Sherman and I attended the VFW and American Legion Program.  As usual, the program was well attended with representation from all age groups.  The breakfast was tasty.  And the strength of character and service readily apparent at the VFW.
The Speaker, Major Derek J. Plymate, Ret. reviewed his extensive military history  and some of the  “why” for his service. He served in many dangerous combat zones with temperatures ranging up to 140 F.   On his “safe” days he supervised and moved explosives and munitions of all types. His presentation contained important reminders about service, sacrifice, loss as well as humor.
The many Scouts in attendance listened carefully to Major Plymate’s reflections on service  and his profound respect for other Veterans.  His simple reminder was to always express appreciation to Veterans when possible with “Thanks for your Service ” as this is appreciated.  Plymouth Beyond the Yellow Ribbon clearly agrees with his reminder and observation.
Kudos to Jim Heimerl, VFW Commander and his crew in making this program a success.
Gary Goldetsky, Psy.D, LP, President, Plymouth Beyond the Yellow Ribbon

Thank MN Troops Block Party – September 21

The Minnesotans’ Military Appreciation Fund is partnering with the Hamel VFW and Plymouth Beyond The Yellow Ribbon to throw a “Thank MN Troops Block Party.”  The date for this event is Saturday, September 21st. On that same day the City Of Medina is celebrating “Medina Day” (two blocks down the street). Hamel will be partying from one end of town to the other! I won’t cover things in the Block Party flyer. You can see/read for yourself. Instead I want to tell you why the Hamel VFW and PBYR whole heartedly support the MMAF.
The MMAF awards grants to Armed Forces personnel who have served since 9 /11. Now this is me (Jim) talking and not the MMAF so I may be a little off. I believe grants of $500.00 are given to each Minnesota Veteran with proof of a Honorable Discharge, $2000.00 to a Combat Wounded Veteran and $8000.00 to a Gold Star Family. The MMAF has awarded over 12 million dollars in grants thus far. Had something like this been available to the Vietnam Veterans when they came home it’s possible there wouldn’t have been such lifelong bitterness, scentless suicides and destroyed lives. That’s why every veteran I’ve talked to supports the MMAF and the 2019 Block Party.
So here’s what I’m asking of each of you to do. Almost everyone knows a younger Minnesota veteran who has served since 9/11. They may be a relative, someone at your VFW/ Legion Post or someone at work. Tell them about the MMAF and the “Thank MN Troops Block Party” on September 21st. Encourage them to attend and show up yourself to lend your support. We can’t undo the mistakes of the 60’s-70’s, but we can ensure they never occur again! Please forward this email to the veterans you know. They’ll know what do. Thank You!
Jim Heimerl
Commander Hamel VFW
(651) 261-3111
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