Autumn calls us to remember sacrifice, strengthen fellowship, and continue serving veterans and their families.

It is hard to believe that the September 11 terrorist attacks on America occurred 25 years ago. For many of us, the memories remain as vivid today as they were on that tragic morning. Do you remember where you were when you first heard the news? Do you remember how you felt as the events unfolded?

I can recall experiencing two very different emotions. First, I was overwhelmed with disbelief. It was almost impossible to comprehend how such devastating attacks could happen in the United States and occur almost simultaneously. The scenes unfolding on television seemed unreal, more like something from the pages of a Tom Clancy novel than real life.

The second feeling I remember was one of profound admiration and awe. While millions of Americans watched in horror, first responders immediately sprang into action. Firefighters, police officers, emergency medical personnel, and countless others never hesitated to enter burning buildings in an attempt to rescue complete strangers. They knowingly placed themselves in harm’s way so that others might live. These brave men and women embodied the very definition of heroism. Many paid the ultimate price through their selfless service and commitment to others.

The VFW Charter states that one of our founding purposes is to perpetuate the memory and history of our dead. As veterans, we understand the importance of honoring those who have sacrificed for their fellow Americans and for our nation. I can think of no better way to observe Patriot Day on 9/11/2026 than by taking a few moments to remember those who lost their lives and to honor those who answered the call without hesitation. May we never forget their courage, sacrifice, and enduring legacy.

Thank you to all who continue to serve our post. Your volunteerism supports our mission through your time, generosity, and energy. All members in good standing are welcome to the meetings, which are held every second Thursday of the month at 6 p.m.

The House Committee oversees the Post building, grounds, and canteen operations, including management, financial oversight, rentals and subleasing, safety, and improvements. We have taken several steps to operate responsibly and stay aligned with our mission. These steps include reducing kitchen hours, hiring a canteen manager, upgrading our security system, installing an AED (Automated External Defibrillator), and continuing to welcome input that supports improvement, growth, and necessary change.

As a member in good standing, you have the right to be heard, ask any questions and be involved. Your House Committee members have a legal fiduciary obligation to actively participate, oversee and act in the organization’s best interest.

Email: hcomm4676@gmail.com

Respectfully,
House Chair Melvin “Mel” Yamamoto

1 Peter 4:10: “God has given each of you a gift from His great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another.”

September and October are filled with many opportunities to celebrate, recognize, remember, and assist our veterans and their families. This is also an excellent time to give thanks for all the blessings and freedoms we have in this land.

This is also the beginning of our new auxiliary programs and requirements year. While some programs are added, modified, and/or deleted, our organizational objectives remain the same: to assist the post and members of the post whenever possible; to maintain true allegiance to the government of the US and fidelity to its constitution and laws; to foster true patriotism; to maintain and extend the institutions of American freedom and equal rights and justice to all men and women; and to preserve and defend the USA from all her enemies.

Our leadership and membership strive to preserve our post home with an environment that belongs to all veterans; a place of refuge and comfort. A place that provides social opportunities and recreation that foster both emotional and physical benefits. Helping veterans and their families is an important part of being a good Christian. The Bible teaches us to serve those around us with love and kindness. Serving others not only benefits them, but it also brings us closer to God and builds our faith. Let’s use our talents for the benefit of our post and auxiliary, not for personal glory or gain.

May we hold in special prayer each member of our Armed Forces, our veterans, their family members, and the families of those who have given the ultimate sacrifice that our country may remain strong, united, and without defeat. Please pray for all members who are ill and struggling with life’s afflictions; pray for their caregivers and medical teams, first responders, and pray for the families of our departed members.

Chrystal Coble
VFW Auxiliary Chaplain

At the MOCA Grand Convention the following individuals from UCKISHE 55 MOCA were elected: Chrystal Coble, Grand Treasurer; Elaine McNulty, Grand Guard; and David Bigham, Grand Trustee #1, and Banner Bearer. Our newly elected Grand President is Diane Amerault, from Armadillo 88. Her theme is “Lighting the way for our She-roes and Heroes!”

As we move into the future, our Supreme President, Dawn Van Tassell, has encouraged every auxiliary member to continue strengthening our relationship with our VFW auxiliary. We are not competing organizations; we are complementary organizations. As VFW Auxiliary members we serve veterans, their families, and our communities through many programs and initiatives. As MOCA members we have one specific purpose, “Keep ’Em Smilin in Beds of White.”

Chrystal Coble
UCKISHE MOCA 55 President

Mondays: Bingo at 5 p.m.

Tuesdays: Pinochle from 5–7 p.m.; bass clubs on selected Tuesdays.

Wednesdays: Blessing Box at 11 a.m.; scheduled Post, Auxiliary, and veterans-group meetings.

Thursdays: Dart League at 7 p.m.; selected committee and community-group meetings.

Fridays: R.E.D. Shirt Friday; Happy Hour Music and Karaoke at 6 p.m.

Schedules and event details are subject to change. Please consult the online calendar before attending.