Congratulations to Patti Bader who has just been named as recipient of the VFW’s 2008 James E. Van Zandt Citizenship Award.

“The VFW Citizenship Award - Awarded for outstanding service contrib to American citizenship. To recognize significant contribution to the spirit of service and dedication to the nation that inspires us to display better citizenship.”

“James E. “Jimmy” Van Zandt was Commander-in-Chief of the VFW three times, and a veteran of three wars (World War I, World War II, and the Korean War). He served as an enlisted man in World War I and retired as an admiral following the Korean War. Descended from a pioneer family in Blair County, Pennsylvania, Jimmy worked his way from newsboy to United States Congressman. Recipients of the award named in Van Zandt’s honor exemplify his dedication to public service, citizenship, and other admirable qualities.”

Patti is certainly very deserving of such an award and she’s been nominated for America’s Favorite Mom. Of course the Lovely and Talented and Downright Sexy Mrs. Hook gets my vote, as does my own mother, but considering neither have been nominated for America’s Favorite Mom I’ll be

Posted by Hook @ 0317 zulu | Comments & Trackbacks (15) | Permalink
This post is filed under: Soldier's Angels

As I mentioned in my initial posting regarding the report cards on Veteran’s Charities, I’ve nothing but high praise for the Soldiers’ Angels. Thanks to the investigative skills of MaryAnn we now have proof to counter the AIP report…

This is from the AIP website’s writeup about Soldiers’ Angels:

“A closer look at one of SA’s programs could dash such hopes about this AIP D-rated charity. (The major reason for this rating is that SA spent only 36% of its total 2006 cash expenses on program services.)”

However, a look at the SA 2006 financial report reveals that:

- Program expenses (support for the Troops) - 64%
- Supporting services (fundraising and admin) - 36%

They reversed the numbers. One should be able to expect more accuracy from a so-called watchdog organization, but apparently one cannot.

Not a single member of SA’s Board receives a salary of any kind. Admin is typically things such as postage, accounting fees, etc. And fundraising in the form of direct mail is a necessity for smaller organizations like SA.

It’s also unfortunate that the financials of organizations like SA cannot take volunteer time/money into account. As Shayna notes, it is an especially large part of what SA does, including hospital/VA visits and the many thousands of Angels who adopt soldiers and support them with their own time (and money!) by sending letters and packages.

As a deployed Command Sergeant Major of a Battalion with over 700 Soldiers I can assure you that support from these Angels is evident throughout my unit. There is not one Soldier in this outfit that has not been touched by the wonderful volunteers from Soldiers’ Angels; they’ve earned an A+ in my book. Sgt Hook out.

Posted by Hook @ 1800 zulu | Comments & Trackbacks (4) | Permalink
This post is filed under: Soldier's Angels

My laptop woes are no more. Thanks for all the help- you know who you are ; )

Sgt Hook out.

Posted by Hook @ 1536 zulu | Comments & Trackbacks (2) | Permalink
This post is filed under: La Vita Dolce & Soldier's Angels

An interesting question, What’s it worth?

What’s it worth to drive to work unafraid your car might explode into flames as a result of an improvised explosive device hidden along your route? What’s it worth to send your kids off to school not worrying if an evil band of hooded men will take their classroom hostage killing several innocent children? What’s it worth to go shopping for more than just the necessities without a bomb going off in the middle of the market? What’s it worth to log onto your computer and read this blog or send an email to a friend or loved one any time of the day you wish? What’s it worth to sit at home and watch two teams battle it out on the football field knowing the losing team is not going to be put to death for their loss?

“dear soldiers’ angels,
i have just received the laptop and blanket and would like to say from the bottom of my heart thank you. what meant the most to me was the coin that was in the card. if there is anything this marine might be able to do for you in the future please ask. your support means a lot to us and countless others that will be going after us. once again thank you.

~semper fi
philip”

What is it worth? Sgt Hook out.

Posted by Hook @ 1415 zulu | Comments & Trackbacks (9) | Permalink
This post is filed under: Heroes & Joint Services & Soldier's Angels

America’s sons and daughters have been in the fight against terrorism for six years now and there are certainly countless ways to show our appreciation. We can offer a pat on the back and a handshake, a smile and a hearftelt “thank you,” a cold beer or a meal are all wonderful ways to thank a Soldier, Marine, Sailor, Airman, or Coastguardsman. But if you really want to show your appreciation, help take care of those in our ranks who have paid dearly, our wounded warriors.

ValourIT provides an excellent opportunity to say Thank You in just the right way. I highly encourage all to show your appreciation and chip in through team Army.

Sgt Hook out.

Posted by Hook @ 0629 zulu | Comments & Trackbacks (4) | Permalink
This post is filed under: Joint Services & Soldier's Angels

I’ve an Army of Soldiers who have received tremendous support from a group of Angels over the past few years and now the lady who organized those efforts has been nominated to be recognized for her work. Vote for Patti Patton-Bader now, that IS an order! Sgt Hook out.

Hotel Tango Tammi.

Posted by Hook @ 0803 zulu | Comments & Trackbacks (4) | Permalink
This post is filed under: Homefront & Soldier's Angels