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May 2020

A Publication of the Brevard Veterans Council & Veterans Memorial Center

Remember When ? VFW Rockledge Post 4534 Honor Guard leading the combined Rockledge / Cocoa City Memorial Day Parade 2012

Brevard Veterans Council, Inc. & Veterans Memorial Center, Inc.

400 South Sykes Creek Pkwy / Merritt Island, FL 32952-3547

Office 321-453-1776 / DAV Service Office 321-452-1774

Current Edition Editor: Don Pearsall 321-313-2444

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I hope everyone is doing well. I know it's real hard staying home do-

ing nothing. I am following 157 episodes of the Andy Griffiths Show,

making sure all the quarters in my quarter bank are facing the same

way, and in general, looking forward to the phone calls where they

want to pay off my student loans or say they are returning my call re-

garding my knee surgery.

It is a good time just to relax a bit although our Center is not making

any money. As you will read throughout, we are just sitting by not do-

ing anything.

By Dean Schaaf

By Don Pearsall

This past month we have had to take some challenging and

stressful steps to combat this COVID-19 virus pandemic

which has changed our way of life and how we conduct busi-

ness and social encounters. We have been successful in con-

ducting some “virtual” meetings which may continue to be

the way we go in the immediate future. It is different, and

to some of us challenging, but does keep us in contact with

co-workers and loved ones. Hang in there for a little while

longer.

Kudos to those in our organization that are keeping the cen-

ter functional while we recover. We are making some

changes to our Courier in format and content, so bear with

us for this shortened version. However, we want to keep in

contact with our members, so enjoy and KEEP SAFE!

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By: Secretary Bill Muckler

April followed March with extremely limited activity at the Center as the Center was

closed by Brevard County to contain the anticipated spreading of COVID19, the Co-

rona virus. This prompted the Executive Committee to hold a fourth Emergency Meet-

ing on Wednesday 22 April 2020 at 1300. In attendance were Don Pearsall, Dean

Schaaf, Bill Muckler, Ted Schmid, Kristi Blanchard and Donn Weaver. This was the first

video teleconference meeting held by the Committee. The Committee met three

times in March.

The Executive Committee has continued to function in a leadership role to ensure the

Council and Center are maintained and all obligations are met. Minutes/notes have

been taken and kept during the meetings.

Minutes for the Board of Directors Meetings and the Membership Meetings are avail-

able electronically by sending an email request or by simply requesting to be added to

the email list. For questions or comments concerning the meetings, or the minutes,

send an Email (wmuckler@gmail.com) or pick up a print copy of the minutes before

the meetings.—Bill Muckler, Secretary

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We are experiencing difficult times. Many people are very concerned about what is go-

ing on in our Country, and what we will we will return to when this is finished. President

Franklin Roosevelt during another very dark time in our country said “We have nothing

to fear, but fear itself.”

We must have courage; we must be ready for whatever is to come. In England at a time

when they were not sure if their society would survive or if they would become the

slaves of the Nazis It was the leader of their country Winston Churchill who said. “Never

give in. Never, never, never.” Many of us are doubting ourselves as we self-quarantine, as

we have no physical contact of any kind with another person, we forget who and what

we are. Let’s look to a child’s book for strength.

“Always remember you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, smarter

than you think and twice as beautiful as you’ve ever imagined.” – Dr. Seuss Things in our

world are changing, many are either afraid of change or can’t accept change.

“Be the change that you wish to see in the world. “ Mahatma Gandhi

The leaders of our country seem to be at odds with what to do. I think General George

Patton said it best. “If everybody is thinking alike, then somebody isn’t thinking.” Several

thousand years ago Isaiah wrote this passage, that fits perfectly today Come, my people,

enter into your rooms, and shut your doors behind you. Hide yourself for a little mo-

ment, until the indignation is past. (Isaiah 26:20)

Remember May 8 is V E Day, May 10 is Mother’s Day, May 16 is Armed Forces Day, and

May25 is Memorial Day

GOD BLESS AMERICA

By: Chip Hanson

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FROM THE FRONT LINES

CLOSED BUT STILL MOVING FORWARD By: Donn Weaver It has been six weeks since the Veterans Memorial Center (VMC) closed our doors to the public in line with Federal, State and County Park Guidelines. You might be sur-prised to learn about just a few of the projects our members have been safely able to accomplish despite that closure, one of which, the Winter Soldiers, is featured sepa-rately. Also, we have had a team of several people working at the VMC M-F 0800-1200 to maintain, clean and support many of the projects below and respond to the inevitable question from a veteran who stops by. BVC Chairman Don Pearsall and VMC Operations Manager Bob Doyle and others from around the county have been spearheading FEMA and County Disaster Relief efforts focused through VMC. They provide meals, water, food, MED PPE and yes, even toilet paper, to health care facilities, first responders and homeless veterans, wherever there is a need in a five county area. VMC also is a Hospice of St. Francis (HOSF) drop off point (M-F 0900-1100) MED/PPE donations including homemade masks now in high demand especially in elder care facilities for Winter . They have delivered over 82,000 meals not just to Brevard, but other parts of the state. In some cases, veterans considered "At Risk" were moved into motels funded by the 501C 3 agency Veterans Connections to a New Life, a troop support network in Brevard County A VERY SPECIAL DONATION: Despite Brevard Schools being closed, demands to go to distance learning and all the other challenges of today, a clear indication of how the community cares and wants to support the VMC was received on 21 April. Teachers and Students of Longleaf Elementary School had decided in January to do some fund raising after hours to support veterans. After some exposure by some of them via VMC Museum and other visits, they chose the VMC for their donation. COVID-19 13 March closures stopped the plan but it had already raised $519.05. Ted Schmid, our Treasurer deposited the check and sent off a very nice thank you note to the school which had hoped to award it a a monthly General Meeting. Longleaf Elementary will be added to our Wall of Support and Honor in the VMC Foyer when the trophy com-pany we use returns to work. Gray Hall Reborn: Several VMC members, especially Nick Sine, Ed Pingston, Bob Doyle, Pat Clendenin, (OTHERS ?), have worked for over four weeks to rebuild and repaint the lower walls of the Gray Hall to protect them against dry wall damage .

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Above: Nick Sine and Bob Doyle take a short break from waxing floors in

Gray Hall

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Finished Job on April 29

(Left) Planning continues and donations have been

received by the Boy Scouts for our latest VMC ap-

proved Eagle Scout Project— The Flag Retirement

Burning Pit in the Park. The Scouts are ready to start

as soon as COVID-19 County rules permit

Troop 343 Eagle Scout Candidate, Jacob Huff at the Pit's future site. Could also be a great Scout Campout facility!!

(Right) New mood lighting and sound

system has been installed

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MIRA Project Update: - Donn Weaver Larry Lallo, the Director of the Merritt Island Redevelopment Agency (MIRA) called the VMC in late April to provide some updates related to our great Veterans and Memorial Park.

Just before COVID-19 VMC and MIRA successfully completed an Application which was accepted by the Brevard County Tourist Development Council (TDC). The re-quest was to partner with MIRA on a $2M plus project to create a Veterans Amphi-theater and associated facilities in the VMP. MIRA and the County have pledged sub-stantial funds toward the 2021-22 project as well. TDC has requested VMC and MIRA be ready this summer to further brief the project to TDC in mid-summer. We were glad to see the first stages of several weeks of hard work and applications were ac-cepted. On County Parks/Recreation plans for two decades, we are closer than ever to seeing this major VMC and Merritt Island Community Upgrade, but realistic that COVID-19 and lost tourist revenues will have a say as to timing.

VMP Phase II Improvements: Mr. Lallo confirmed all permitting is complete and

funding for this $900,000 plus project is completed. VMC is contacting the lead County Project manager to confirm a start date, which being construction, should be possible even during these times as you observe many such projects still ongoing in March and April in the county.

VMP Phase II includes park lighting/electric outlets; irrigation system; 1.9 more path

miles; planting of many dozens of trees (including our Memorial Trees) and other plants; etc.

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The UHAUL Building Project: MIRA is working with UHAUL on some code revisions, but

there is substantial activity at the site now. Over two years ago VMC worked with MIRA

and others to approve the UHAUL plan. If you noticed the now empty billboard struc-

tures on the North Side of the building, will be the frame for military style cut outs to

help blend the building into the VMC entrance.

American Legion Post 344 Auxiliary Food Support: The Legion AUX based at the VMC

and led by Dorothy Walsh as President continues to collect food and other supplies at

the VMC to support homeless and on the edge veterans and their families who are

homeless or in dire straits due to the economic shut down. The Story and this photo

were included in the 16 April edition of Veteran Voice Newspaper. Great job in tough

times.

Dorothy Walsh supervises while Chaplain Chip blesses the bounty of donated food for distribution.

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Museum Upgrades: Working in the Baker room with plenty of social distancing, Museum Asst Curators Ed Pingston and Kristi Blanchard have gone and sorted hun-dreds of museum donations during this time. When we all get back there will be some great museum upgrades as a result.

Ed Pingston sorts and remembers some great Vietnam War artifacts. Kristi refused to pose so Ed is in a Roger photo three times!

The Veterans memorial Center Mu-

seum is pleased to announce the

newest addition to our soon-to-be

expanded Vietnam War display and

collection, The M-79 Grenade

Launcher. This iconic weapon is a

single-shot, shoulder-fired, break-

action, grenade launcher that fired a

40mm x 46mm grenade and first appeared during the Vietnam War. Because of its distinc-

tive report when fired, it earned the nicknames of "Thumper", "Thump-Gun", "Bloop

Tube", "Big Ed", "Elephant Gun", and "Blooper" among American soldiers. Australian units

referred to it as the "Wombat Gun". The M-79 could fire a wide variety of 40mm rounds,

in Explosive, Anti-personnel, Smoke, Buckshot, Illumination, and Flechette (Pointed steel

darts).

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Brevard Troop Support

This especially a hard time for homeless or needy veterans to maintain social distancing since

they share food, fires and what not. Last month in April, Veterans Connection to a New Life

the Non-Profit foundation that handles Brevard County Troop and Family Support had as-

sisted 8 veterans. The focus this month was to get veterans that have under lying health is-

sues off the bus stop benches and into motels. They did that until their funds ran out.

They also offer Substance Abuse programs that comply with the VA standards. The 501 C (3) is

solely funded by donations from the private or corporate sector, and appreciates any financial

assistance that is offered. Visit their website at: http//connectionstoanewlife.com

This is a trying time with everyone encouraged to confine themselves. They also have Certi-

fied Counselors available to help with the stress and

anxiety. The focus of their troop support is:

Transitioning from military to civilian life

Family Acceptance and understanding

Financial Services and assistance with expenses

PTSD and SA Counseling

Moving from the woods to a home or apartment

Helping families adjust to the transition

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April at the VMC — Great Fishing with social distancing. We also average more than 100 visitors per day enjoying the VM Park and fishing bridge

here.

OTHER NEWS NOTES Though impossible to list everything in this space and since social distancing means it is impossible for one person or even a group of max 5 people to know what else is going on, here are just a few more March/April accomplishments: We Obtained a 2x3 foot sign of the Pledge of Allegiance for the Boys and

Girls Club of Cocoa which does not now even have a US Flag! VMC and MOAACC just began to support the Club when COVID-19 hit.

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The Red Cross Donated a beautiful desk, some great chairs and other office items too the VMC which we picked up in mid-April and will move into the building when we have more hands on deck.

The Family of MG John Cleland USA, Ret who died in 2017 and was in the first class

of the Florida Veterans Hall of Fame and a frequent VMC visitor and speaker (he earned three CIBs in WWII, Korea and Vietnam) donated for some special bricks and a future bench in the Memorial Plaza.

The first phase of power washing, lawn trimming, and brick, wall, plaque. statue refurbish-

ing took place in March until early April. It will resume as such companies are allowed to reopen. It is a yearlong project that will greatly enhance our plaza.

Submitted by: donnweaver2020@gmail.com Donn Weaver Veterans Memorial Center Special Projects Coordinator 757-871-6576

Everyone has been asking what are the plans to give the Courier a modern facelift. I have no

idea. I am going to experiment with some new software I just purchased so each month there

may be a few subtle changes. I think we should concentrate on advertising. It is a great source

of local income for the center. Happy advertisers spread the word. It’s the little things that

count like stopping to visit them on occasion just to be sure they are satisfied, they know we

care, and above all, patronize them..

Other changes will be more photographs, interesting military stories and some other things,

maybe a little humor. Who knows. Although there will be graphics and lots of colors, it won’t

matter with the online edition. But, because of cost, only a limited number of copies will be

made, and those maybe set up a little differently. I also would like to form a small Courier

Committee to work advertising, set up etc. Anyone have ideas or suggestions, please give me

a shout. All Departments will have a deadline of the 24 th of the previous month. Late entries

after the 29th will not be accepted unless it’s an emergency

- Don Pearsall

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To be sure you are reading our newsletter, each month there will be a letter hidden some-

where in the Courier. Maybe in an advertisement, an article or photo perhaps, You need to

find it, tell me by emailing (bvccourier@gmail.com) where you found it and I will enter your

name for a drawing for something, I don’t know what yet. Don’t tell anyone else, even if they

ask where you found it, it improves your chances of winning. The monthly letters will spell

out a word. You need to know that word.

I think the VMC should be a fun place. We have a rare family here. Most all military, which

gives us the right to poke fun at each others branch of service. That’s OK, but never let an out-

sider do it. We have a unique camaraderie. I want to make it a pleasure to read the new Cou-

rier.

I once had a lot of fun and a challenge adding a military crossword puzzle using terms from all

the services. The new Courier will be informational, and a newsletter many will look forward

to reading

Our Courier is a reflection of who we are. It needs to grow the way we are. This is your publi-

cation. Not mine, not Dean’s so it’s up to all of you to tell us what you want. We don’t want to

produce trash. Remember this publication not only reaches our members, but many others

like the County Commissioners, the main media outlets and others, not to mention it is also

available in the main lobby of the Center.

We also wish to have all you artists out there help us with a design contest Give us a new

Front Page layout and Courier logo. Give us your best thoughts.

A Publication of the Brevard Veterans Council

and Brevard Veterans Memorial Center

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Submitted by: donnweaver2020@gmail.com Donn Weaver Veterans Memorial Center Special Projects Coordinator 757-871-6576

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On March 13, 1942 ,the U.S Army officially launched the training of War Dogs for the newly

formed K-9 Corps ? Well over a million dogs served on both sides during WW I, carrying

messages along the complex network of trenches, and providing some measure of psycho-

logical comfort. The most famous to emerge from any war was “Rin Tin Tin”

- Paul Harvey

He was as a puppy found by Army infantryman Lee Duncan, inside one of the ru-

ined burned out kennels next to a German barracks outside of Darmstadt, Ger-

many, during WW I.

He found a mother German Shepherd cowering with her two pups, which were

only a few days old. He named the pups Rin Tin Tin and Nanette, after little yarn

puppets that the French children played with. The French children gave these

puppies to American soldiers as good luck charms. He was brought to the United

States, where he made his film debut in the 1922, staring in the unknown silent

film “ The Man From Hell’s River”. As a bona fide animal movie star, Rin Tin Tin

made the little known dog Breed German Shepherd famous across the country.

Rinty (His original name) Died in December 1941, of Pneumonia

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At the time of this writing, we are still very much engaged with our war to stop or at

least limit the illness and death caused by the Corona virus. Although our state has

not yet experienced 14 days of decline in new cases and deaths, I have read that we

are close. It appears that our state has avoided “overwhelming” our medical systems.

The fact that the “curve” is leveling off, indicates that most of our family, friends and

neighbors are following the guidance and directives from our medical science experts

and government leaders.

In the next week or so, when we reach the point of a steady and consistent decline in

new Corona virus cases and associated deaths, then we will look to our local and

state plans for “reopening” our businesses, medical and dental practices, schools and

churches and other integral institutions which make America the great nation that

it is! This next phase in getting our nation “back up and running” is essential. At the

same time, we must be cognizant that if we don’t do the appropriate things at the

right time, we could start a “second wave” which could result in the same or worse

consequences.

It appears that the “restart” of our community will be gradual and in “phases”

according to the physical setting and ways in which people interact within each

organization. For instance, we know that using virtual technology for meetings,

regular cleaning of surfaces, “social distancing” and the wearing of facemasks are just

a few practices which will be “generally accepted” for the foreseeable future.

By; Paul Julian

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In the first phase, we will see the restarting of organizations where employees,

customers and other people do not have to physically interact with each other

on a regular basis. Based upon our steady accumulation of knowledge of this

disease and associated “best practices” for avoidance, we will see the allow a b l e

size of groups being around each other increase and the loosening of “social

distancing” guidelines.

I believe the last or one of the last phases will be the allowance of significant

number of people to be around each other - like at a convention, cultural

performance (e.g. concert) or sporting event. This last phase will probably will

not happen for another 12 to 18 months or until a vaccine or “antidote” is

developed. Please continue to be “mindful” of the impact of your actions on your

self as well as all the other people you “cross paths with” in your day-to-day

active ties.

All of our Librarians miss our colleagues and friends at the Veteran’s Memorial

Center! We will get through this and in time come back stronger than before! Upon

our return, the following are the priorities that we will attend to:

Documenting “Process Improvements” of those practices which are neces-

sary for the efficient operation of our Library/Conference room

Restarting of the LOC VMC Veterans History Project

Making “user-friendly” and otherwise improving the organization of our

books and videos for our Veterans and other patrons

Adding much needed “shelf space” to accommodate additional quality books

that have been donated

Everybody please be safe and try to enjoy this rare opportunity to spend quality time

with your family!

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Become a Booster today and help defray the cost of printing and mailing our newsletter. Only $10.00 per name per year.

Skip and Ruth Bateman (July 2026)

In memory of Noel Lee Bateman

In Memory of Robert M. Best

M.D. Bisset (Sept 2021)

Steve Bodie (July 2020)

Mary Consolato (June 2020)

Bob Estes (April 2021)

Rick & Joan Fugaro (Oct 2020)

John & Cindy Kaufmann (Mar 2022)

J.P. & Donna Longway (Dec 2020)

John & Roberta Martin (Nov 2022)

Fleet Reserve Branch 263 (May 2020)

Rick Leonhart (March 2021)

Mel & Dora Mueller (Mar 2022)

Gary W. Rapp, USMC (Aug 2022)

Don & Barbara Rathbun (Dec 2023)

Jeff & Yvonne Rathbun (Dec 2021)

Tom & Patrice Roseland (Jan 2021)

Space Coast Honor Flight (Mar 2021)

Jim & Anh Tootle (Feb 2022)

Dean & Susan Schaaf (May 2020)

John S. (Tank) Sherman (Sept 2021)

Rheta Campbell Sherman (Sept 2020)

Philip Weiler (Feb 2021)

William C Weimer (Dec 2020)

If you feel your name is missing and that you paid for Booster sponsorship this year, please contact the Treasurer. Thank you for your forbearance and understanding. Fill in your names and send to the BVC along with your check. Please make your check payable to: Brevard Veterans Council. Single Name - $10.00 / Double Names – $20.00

Name(s) _________________________________________________________________

- Mission Statements-

BVC: The mission of the Brevard Veterans Council is to work in conjunction with area veter-ans, local government, and other veterans’ organizations to support and promote the interests and welfare of Brevard County veterans and their families.

VMC: The mission of the Veterans Memorial Center is to maintain and operate a premier facil-ity to support veterans and their families, educate the public, and provide a vibrant memorial to the service and sacrifice of all military veterans through a museum, memorial plaza, library, and park.

- Boosters -

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How well do you know your military history. These questions will be from any branch

of service . Answers on the next page

1) What was the Allies password for the D Day invasion ?

2) What war was the first to have authorized film coverage?

3) Where was the Battle of Bunker Hill actually fought in June 1775?

4) What was the profession of Eva Braun, Adolf Hitler's Mistress ?

5) During the Civil War, How many states fought for the union? And how many

for the confederacy?

- By: Manager Bob Doyle

Hi, I hope everyone is doing well. During your absence, we

completely stripped washed and waxed the floor in the

Gray Hall. (See photos on Page 6) We have been busy here

every day with a skeleton crew cleaning, sanitizing and

maintaining the building and grounds.

It’s business as normal for us and, there is still plenty to do,

The Gray Hall was the biggest project and has been needing

that for quite sometime. Hope to see you all back here

soon. Stay Safe

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1) Micky Mouse

2) Boer War

3) Breed’s Hill S/E of Bunker Hill

4) Photographers Assistant

5) Union 23 Confederacy 11

- Ted Schmid

The financial review has been completed for the

last 19 months to present date. The Finance Com-

mittee has also submitted the 2020 proposed

budget to President Dean Schaaf and Chairman

Don Pearsall for their review before presenting it

to the board of directors for final approval.

We wish to thank Ted and his team for their expe-

diency of their review and work to keep the Me-

morial Center in a healthy financial state.

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American Legion Post 344 (Last Thursday of Month at 1800 Hours)

American Legion Auxiliary Unit 344 (2nd Thursday of Month at 1730 Hours)

Combat Veterans Motorcycle Club (3rd Saturday at 1100 Hours)

DAV Chapter 123 (2nd Thursday of Month at Noon)

The Fleet Reserve Association Branch 263 (1st Wednesday of Month at 1800 Hours)

Marine Corps League Detachment 513 (1st Thursday of Month at 1800 Hours)

Military Order of the Purple Heart (4th Monday of Month at 1100-1330 Hours)

Navy League (1st Monday of Month at 1800 Hours)

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary (2nd Tuesday of Month at 1800 Hours)

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Exec. Meeting (Last Wednesday of Month at 1800 Hours)

Rolling Thunder FL Chapter 1 (Fourth Sunday of Month at 1400 Hours)

500 × 500

850 × 315

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You Can Advertise Here For $5.00 a month or $50.00 a Year.

Other sizes and prices available

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BVC Chair/VMC Vice Don Pearsaall 313-2444 djp32927@gmail.com

VMC Chair / BVC Vice Dean Schaaf 452-0365 dschaaf@brevard.net

Past Chairman Donn Weaver 613-2403 donnweaver2020@gmail.com

Secretary Bill Muckler 904-318-8166 wmuckler@gmail.com

Treasurer Ted Schmid 863-3640 tedschmid88@gmail.com

Chaplain Chip Hanson 543-7505 chipvietnam@aol.com

3 Year Alex Terrero 759-5543 aja3@bellsouth.net

3 Year Steve Bodie 720-2020 dbodie620@att.net

3 Year Brian R. Whalen 205-5986 whalenbri@hotmail.com

2 Year Ed Pingston 794-9401 edpingstonservices.com

2 Year Ray Norman 452-5376 normanrayl@yahoo.com

2 Year Rich Tomasso 452-8543 rich4400@gmail.com

1 Year Ted Suzor 271-4327 dolfyns21@cfl.rr.com

1 Year Les Beecher 452-1806 les.acp@gmail.com

1 Year TBD

BVC/VMC Leadership Team

Brevard Veterans Council Board of Directors

Veterans Memorial Center Board of Directors

3 Year Doris Hendricks 458-1138 dorisroses@yahoo.com

3 Year Chris Gibson 503-467-6102 dasgibby@hotmail.com

3 Year Jay Longway 449-9037 jpl3x@yahoo.com

2 Year Mike Schulze 202-255-3158 mcschulze@verizon.net

2 Year TBD

2 Year Ernie Hoffman 203-962-9000 ernest-hoffman@hotmail.com

1 Year Dorothy Walsh 426-6736 dwalshusa@gmail.com

1 Year Harry Beaver 507-4228 sgmbeaver@netzero.net

1 Year Lou Rossi 394-1669 No email

DAV Chapter 123 Bill Grooten 453-1776 wgrooten@cfl.rr.com

Fleet Reserve 263 TBD

Museum Curator Dean Schaaf 452-0365

Other Voting Board Members - VMC Bylaws Article IV- Section 3

Veterans Center Non Voting Support Positions

Asst. Secretary Julie Adamson 446-4663 Juliecladamson@gmail.com

Asst. Treasurer Kristi Blanchard 449-1226 kblanc3@yahoo.com

Operations Director Bob Doyle 276-7814 vmcoperations@gmail.com

Security/Asst, Operations Ted Suzor 271-4327

Museum Curator (Assoc.) Alex Terrero 759-5543

Website Joe Davie 636-8644 jdavie@cfl.rr.com

Special Projects Donn Weaver 613-2403

Please send any contact information changes to Don Pearsall at djp32927@gmail.com Area Code is 321 for phone numbers unless noted otherwise