Fort Sherman Chapter #9, Disabled American Veterans Lead Idaho
Arnold L. Howe, USAF, Retired, was elected Commander of the 5,000 disabled veterans who have been wounded, gassed or injured in time of war. Commander Howe of Post Falls was honored at the annual state convention held Saturday in Idaho Falls. As Commander, Howe will be responsible in coordinating the efforts of 15 Chapters and 8 Auxiliary units with VA Medical Centers in Boise, Salt Lake City, Spokane and Walla Walla. He will guide Chapter support of the three Idaho State Nursing Homes in Boise, Lewiston and Pocatello. The DAV Van program has 16 vans providing free transportation for any veteran needing transportation in Idaho and he will oversee the statewide recruitment of volunteer drivers and the procurement of the vans.
Gregory Bacon, Sr., of Post Falls will assist the state commander from his new office of State Senior Vice Commander. Mike Kostur, Jr., will continue as a member of the State Finance Commander.
"It is unusual for a Chapter to have so many members in the highest levels of state leadership at the same time," said Robert Hunt, Chapter Adjutant and past state commander, "We are all very proud of them all." "They will have enormous responsibilities and they will guide state officers and each Chapter in cooperating with the National DAV goals."
Hunt stated that, 'Commander Howe has just completed eight successful years as a Chapter Commander here locally and is experienced and capable of leading the state DAV." Both the State Commander and State Adjutant attend schooling at the National Headquarters in Cold Springs, Kentucky, just south of Cincinnati. While there, is addition, to being briefed on all areas of DAV operations, they will meet other State Commanders and develop personal relationships with National Officers and headquarters staff. The result is a veterans charitable organization that stays focused on it mission, without overlap and waste.
Commander Howe will work with the Idaho Congressional delegation and state legislators in ensuring that every disabled veteran and their surviving spouses and orphans are cared for. Past Commander Hunt stated, "The DAV mission will not end until every injured and wounded veterans receives all the care they deserve. We are one group who would love to see our membership decline in numbers. It is not declining."
Robert B. Hunt, QMC, USN, Ret.
Chapter Adjutant
2536 W. Falling Star Loop
Post Falls, Idaho 83854
208 773-1074
cinc@frontier.com