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General Orders #3
November 2024
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MONTHLY ZOOM MEETING
Thursday, November 21, 2024
8 PM EST / 7PM CST / 6 PM MST/ 5 PM PST
All Members and Patriots Welcome
LOGIN ONLINE: https://zoom.us/j/4981732263
Meeting Code - 2020
Call in via telephone: 1-929-436-2866
Enter this Meeting ID: 4981 732 263
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National President
Fran Holtgreven
A Message from our National President
Veterans Day 2024 in Washington D.C. was a beautiful fall day. The sunrise was spectacular and very welcome since it rained all night. The day started early at 6 AM, breakfast was eaten and then up to the room to change clothes, I knew if I wore my clothes that were laid out and went down to breakfast, I would spill my coffee all over me. The Sr. Vice Commander, Jr. Vice Commander, my Patriot Bill and I were in the car at 8 AM on our way to the office to pick up the MOPH flag. Off we went to Arlington National Cemetery, but for some reason we missed our turn due to construction and took a lovely tour past the Washington Monument, Lincoln Monument, Viet Nam Wall and the back of the White House! Not much traffic and wonderful views of all the beautiful buildings. We arrived at Arlington National Cemetery and went through security and jumped on the trolly to go to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier where we would sit in a box and listen to the President and the other keynote speakers along with other Veterans Service representatives after another security check. Then the Commander and I presented a beautiful wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. We all hustled to the 1 PM Vietnam Veterans Memorial. We were a little late, but the Sr. Vice Commander and Jr. Vice Commander had gone earlier to represent the MOPH and I am so happy to say that Chris Day and her husband, Gerry, were in attendance to represent the MOPH Auxiliary. A wreath was presented and off we all were again. Sr. Vice and Jr. Vice Commanders were off to the Military Woman’s Memorial where a program included formal military honors, keynote speakers, veteran’s remarks and a wreath laying ceremony. The Commander, Regional IV Commander, my husband and I were off to the Korean Monument. A short service with keynote speakers, music and honors to the Korean Veterans was held. The Region IV Commander and I then presented a wreath. Then off we were to meet up with our party at the Military Woman’s Memorial. Even though we were late, it was a special ceremony where woman veterans spoke about their service to the United States.
I am so proud to have been able to accompany these MOPH patriots. This was a long day, but a wonderful experience and an honor to represent the MOPH Auxiliary.
And a very special “thank you” to Chris for accompanying and helping us show our respect for all veterans.
Please think of attending these services; by working together we show all veterans that we honor, respect and appreciate their service to us and our country.
Fran
Fran Holtgreven
National President, MOPHA
Fran.MOPHA@Gmail.com
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Special Edition to General Orders written by Auxiliary Member Chris Day: Dept of Florida
Veterans Day, November 11, 2024.
On Veteran’s Day, November 11, 2024, it was my great honor to be at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial (“The Wall”). Together with my husband, recipient of two purple hearts from his service in Vietnam, we flew to Washington, DC, to take part in the ceremony. The Wall is a vivid reminder of the promise to NEVER FORGET. I took the Purple Heart Preamble with me, and during the ceremony I silently reaffirmed the pledge to sponsor our Purple Heart principles.
We were also able to visit several other memorials.
· The Vietnam Women’s Memorial, dedicated in 1993, to honor the women who risked their lives to service their country. Many were nurses, physicians, air traffic controllers, communication specialists, and intelligence officers.
· The Three Servicemen Statute, which depicts three soldiers, purposely very young people, unveiled on Veterans Day, 1984. This is a powerful tribute honoring our Vietnam Veterans, many of whom serviced at a very young age. 2024 is the 40th anniversary of the statute.
· In Memory Plaque dedicated was dedicated in 2004. It reads: “In Memory of the men and women who served in the Vietnam War and later died as a result of their service. We honor and remember their sacrifice.” This memorial is of special importance to me, since our family lost our brother-in-law to chemical toxicity complications (agent orange). He was part of a five generation of soldiers. The year 2024 marks the 20th Anniversary of the In Memory plaque.
· One additional highlight of the program was the explanation of the In Memory program which creates an honor roll online for families who lost a Vietnam veteran to service-related complications. Information and applications can be obtained through VVMF.org/inmemory.
It was incredible to be in this hallowed space and be part of honoring the Vietnam Veterans on this special day. Chris Day, Department of Florida.
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National Sr. Vice President
Teviah L. Gilliard
As we gear up for the holiday season, let’s take a moment to celebrate two special occasions that remind us of the power of gratitude and resilience: Veterans Day and Thanksgiving.
First, a THANK YOU to our incredible veterans! These amazing patriots have risen to the challenge time and time again, showing us what true grit and dedication look like. We’re beyond grateful for their service and sacrifice. Their stories inspire us to tackle our own challenges with the same spirit of determination and hope.
As we move into Thanksgiving, let’s carry this spirit of gratitude forward. It’s a time to appreciate the big and small blessings in our lives and to rise to the challenge of supporting and uplifting each other. Whether it’s sharing a meal, lending a helping hand, or simply being there for one another, let’s make this season one of connection and kindness.
To all our veterans (and their families), thank you for your unwavering bravery and for always rising to the challenge. And to our friends and members, let’s embrace the Thanksgiving spirit with hearts full of gratitude and joy.
Yours In Reverent Patriotism,
Teviah
teviah.gilliard@yahoo.com
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National Secretary
Judy Fiddler
An update about our files...I have sorted through ALL the boxes with minutes, financials and closed Units and Departments and have delivered 3 of the six boxes to the company that will be digitizing them. The other 3 boxes will go when the first batch has been completed. To think that I started this at the end of August with 10 plus plastic tubs to now 6 than to just thumbdrives is just a great feeling of accomplishment. There were days that I thought I would never see the end.
PLEASE consider taking on this position when I leave next July. I will help in any way possible.
I also serve as my Department's secretary and this past week, our Department President and I went Christmas shopping for our military families in Ohio. Happy to say that we spent $1,500.00 on toys, stuffed animals, board games, journals and books. Just so proud of our Department.
On a sad note...Many who attended past National Conventions will remember Barbara Burr. At National she served as National Sgt at Arms for several years. She also served as the Department of Ohio Secretary and Chaplain for a short time. Barbara will be missed by all who knew her.
However you celebrate the upcoming holidays, please have a safe, happy and glorious celebration...Happy Thanksgiving....Judy
Judy
mophauxsec@gmail.com
330-880-3364
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National Americanism Officer, Sgt at Arms, VAVS Rep, and CDCE Grant coordinator
Linda Varejcka
CAREGIVERS
A quote: Prioritizing self-care can be one of the bravest things you can do for yourself. Something very easy to do is listening to music. This time of year, I'm very anxious to listen to the good old Christmas songs. The put me in a better mood and put spring in my step. One self-care group we did nothing but listen to several self-care, soothing songs from various artists. Just 30 minutes. It was great. You can go out to the web and look for self-care music to see is some you like and there are some on u-tube. If you close your eyes and listen they can relax, give you hope and spirit etc. Just think just 30 minutes or less "for yourself".
GRANT
We just once again received from the Foundation $$$ to help make a different in our Veterans lives. This installment was $10,000.00 Do you know of a Veteran that was impacted by the tornadoes, hurricanes, wildfires. The max for requesting is $2000.00 but that would help do something. Please let me know so we can figure out how to help.
WANTED
What did your unit do to honor our Veterans on Veterans Day, Purple Heart Day the holidays, how are you presenting and showing your Patriotism???? I want to compline our accomplishments for the annual report and also the National Leadership. But please do now not when the reports are do.
Also I'm in need of the Reps/Deps copies of the AJR's. (annual joint reviews) The chiefs were to meet with you in October and to give you this information. (hours/donations, goals etc) I have only received a couple.
WAYS and MEANS
Don't spend those dimes, collect them. If you prefer you can still save the dollar bills with "F" for Fran, "A" for Auxiliary or pick your own letter. Do a bakeless bakesale or a no frills dinner night out for all your members (not just those that attend your meetings) Be creative!!!!! We will be selling the shirts again. There will be only a few designs and there will be a window for ordering. More to come regarding that.
COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS
Wishing you all a "Very Blessed Thanksgiving".
God Bless you ALL.
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LASTLY, But Not Least! In each of the next General Orders, a hidden image will be available for you to find. The image, a hot air balloon, will have the words "find me!" written on it. When you find it, email me with the location, before the beginning of the upcoming Zoom meeting and a name will be drawn from those lucky enough to have found the hot air balloon. The winner will be announced during Zoom and a prize will be awarded.
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FIND ME! I look like this (but you'll have to find my hidden version to win a prize!
Linda
jfvarejcka@windstream.net
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National Chaplain
Gwendolyn Gilliard
From the Desk of the Military Order of the Purple Heart Auxiliary National Chaplain
November 2024
VETERANS DAY NOVEMBER 2024
Veterans Day (also known as Armistice Day) was established in 1919 by President Woodrow Wilson to honor WWI veterans. It became a legal holiday in 1938. After changes to include WWII and Korean War veterans, as well as all veterans of all wars, President Ford signed the final date of November 11, 1978 into law to make it the traditional day to honor all veterans. The oldest Veterans Day parade was held in Birmingham, Alabama, in 1947.
Veterans Day is not just a holiday; it’s a reminder of the bravery and dedication of those men and women who have served. It’s a day to reflect on the freedoms we enjoy and the price paid for those freedoms and privileges. As we honor our veterans, let’s also commit to supporting them in tangible ways—whether through volunteering, advocating for their needs, or simply expressing our gratitude with a simple acknowledgement of the simple words- thank you.
From a somewhat personal perspective, I start each day by thanking God and my veteran at home. Whenever I see a veteran on the outside, I make it a point to salute and say, “Thank you for your service, sir/ma’am! May God bless you.” This gesture is often met with honor, appreciation, a tear or two, maybe a smile, and sometimes surprise. Despite some saying people don’t care anymore, many of us deeply appreciate the sacrifices made by our veterans in service to our country and its citizens. Thank God for our veterans! I’m also reminded through one of my favorite patriotic songs (Eternal Father, Strong to Save, although a Navy hymn) the diverse and challenging environments where they served, whether on land, sea or air. The hymn’s significance resonance with all branches of the military services. Its themes of trust, protection, divine guidance and dependence, thus reflecting the values of patriotism, honor and sacrifice that are central to military service. It makes me shout Halleluiahs and thank You God for His promise of His constant presence of not ever leaving us alone.
Let us as the citizens of the United States of America join together to pay tribute and celebrate our esteemed Veterans of our great nation and humbly pray according to your own faith:
Father God, as we come humbly before Your Throne of grace and mercy, thanking You for this day; thanking You for the opportunity on this Veterans Day 2024 to lift up every Veteran, men and women, of our nation’s armed forces who gave of themselves selflessly. May they feel Your presence and know that You know each of them by name as we pay tribute to them through You. Please bring healing to each of those who still hurt from their past experience into the presence of Your amazing grace, mercy and eternal love through this commemoration as we honor them. We pray that they will seek to draw closer to You, as You are open to receive them to grant them peace and comfort that surpasses all human understanding. Lord renew their spirits, refresh their strength in hope and faith, and to keep a good heart as thy seek You. Bless their families and friends who stands in the gap with extra measure of patience and understanding.
May we continue to recognize Veterans Day as an everyday event, honoring the sacrifice, duty, dedication, courage, perseverance, and commitment of our veterans, fallen heroes, and active duty personnel. Almighty God, we say “thank you” to them and their families, trusting in You. Help us prove worthy of their sacrifices and set an example for future generations. May this prayer reach our strong, brave, and resilient veterans, our defense Armed Forces including our civil servants, and all who are in harm’s way, including law enforcement and first responders. Please keep them covered in Your armor with hope and strength.
Lord, continue to protect and bless America, and may America bless You. We pray with eternal gratitude, giving You all the honor, glory, and praise. In Your Holy Name, Shalom. Amen.
You’ve heard it, said it, now let’s honor and remember: “IT IS THE VETERAN”
IT IS THE VETERAN
(Author unknown)
It is the VETERAN, not the preacher, who has given us freedom of religion.
It is the VETERAN, not the reporter, who has given us freedom of the press.
It is the VETERAN, not the poet, who has given us freedom of speech.
It is the VETERAN, not the campus organizer, who has given us freedom to assemble.
It is the VETERAN, not the lawyer, who has given us the right to a fair trial.
It is the VETERAN, not the politician, who has given us the right to vote.
It is the VETERAN, who salutes the Flag, who serves under the Flag.
And I add:
May God bless our Veterans and their families,
May God continue to bless America,
and
May America bless the “IN GOD WE TRUST”!
HAPPY VETERANS DAY 2024!
“…The Lord is with thee, thou mighty man of valor.” (Judges 6:12 KJV)
“The Lord my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in Him and I am heled: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song I will praise.” (Psalm 28:7 KJV)
“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.”
THANK YOU TO ALL VETERANS FOR YOUR SERVICE!
Another Day to Celebrate EVERYDAY- THANKSGIVING
With Gratitude
According to Wikipedia:
“Thanksgiving is a national holiday celebrated on various dates in the United States, Canada, Grenada, Saint Lucia, Liberia, and unofficially in countries like Brazil and the Philippines. It is also observed in the Dutch town of Leiden and the Australian territory of Norfolk Island. It began as a day of giving thanks for the blessings of the harvest and of the preceding year. Thanksgiving is celebrated on the second Monday of October in Canada and on the fourth Thursday of November in the United States and around the same part of the year in other places. Although Thanksgiving has historical roots in religious and cultural traditions, it has long been celebrated as a secular holiday as well.”
When looking at what’s happening within our world today some have shared that it’s hard to think of celebrating the Thanksgiving Holiday-would you say that’s understandable? I have found that despite the unprecedented activities, violence and atrocities against humanity, I trust in GOD and still declare that our Creator does not sleep or slumber and HE works in ways that we cannot see. And, HE is why we can still appreciate our blessings regardless of our broken world.
It has been said that when we express gratitude (i.e., thank you) to another person, we are also saying, “Thank You” to God. Also, that gratitude is good medicine for the heart and soul. So let us continue in (each your own) faith and in prayer for those who are in harm’s way and those less fortunate without the comforts we have as we each count our many blessings, one by one, with a heart of thanksgiving and gratitude to our God, every day! Let us purposely become a grateful person of gratitude for others such as our family and friends, other people, our peace, joy, love, and yes, even difficult moments whereas a lesson is learned, the last movement made of our bodies, the eyes we have to see, the voice we have to raise, the hands we have to feel with, the ears we have to hear with, the heart that beats and pumps the living source of blood throughout our bodies, the opportunity to be a blessing to someone else, the grace, the kindness, the forgiveness, a God Who loves us (John 3:16,17), the list goes on, and on, and on of blessings/gifts from God that we can be grateful for to pass on to others-every day, every hour.
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With deep sadness…
In Memoriam
Almighty God I His Infinite Wisdom called to Eternal Reward the following Member(s)
(Always sad to share but never too late to Pray, express Condolences, or send cards)
“… mourn with those who mourn.” Romans 12:15
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Gale Loberg PA Unit 1994 (10/18/24) www.copelandfuneralhomes.com/obituary/Gale-Loberg (8/14/24)
Helen Glass: Age 101. Martha Washington Recipient in She was the recipient of PNP Diane Petrini's Martha Washington Award in 2018. Helen, a WWII Veteran was named
Her recollection of her WWII career can be accessed on this link:
The Digital Collections of the National WWII Museum : Oral Histories | Oral History
Susie Seydel-Pitman National Member at Large (10/21/24)
Barbara Burr OH Unit 31, Barbara served as National Sgt at Arms for several years as well offices on the local and Department level. (11/7/24) Cards can be sent to Patriot Robert Burr & Family, 807 Wallace Drive, Delaware, OH 43015
____________________________________________
Prayers Request: Ongoing prayers for those affected by the destructive disasters of hurricanes, tornadoes, flooding, fires, and other environmental –life changing catastrophes.
For those unknown/unspoken, including those grieving, in harm’s way, the unhomed, the needy and hungry; those incarcerated or lonely; marriages, disenfranchised; children, environment and atmospheric events, political and religious leaders, military, medical and educational professionals, volunteers, those in harm’s way.
Sick: Homebound/Hospital:
Prayer request for Austin Fath (LA 177), son of PNP Colleen Orfanello who is recovering from emergency surgery due to a car accident. 211 Chimaera Lane Slidell, LA 70458
Shut In: Unspoken requests
November Birthdays: Happy, Happy Birthday to all of November 2024 Birthday Celebrants! November Birth Flowers: Chrysanthemum and Peony. November Birthstone: Topaz and Citrine.
Share your date so we can celebrate with you.
A Few of November Observances:
NATIONAL NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH: “Rock Your Mocs”
National Family Caregivers Month (over 90 million in the U.S.)
Daily:
1: All Saints’ Day
2: All Souls Day
3: Daylight Savings Time
4: Use Your Commonsense Day
5: Election Day
6: National Nacho Day
7: National Hug a Bear Day
8: National Cappuccino Day/ National STEM/STEAM Day 9: World Freedom Day
10: UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS BIRTHDAY, SEMPER FI!!!
11: VETERANS DAY (Thank you Veterans!!!)
12: Chicken Soup for the Soul Day
13: World Kindness Day
14: World Diabetes Day
15: National Clean Out Your Refrigerator Day
16: International Day of Tolerance
17: National Homemade Bread Day
18: Mickey Mouse Day
19: National Camp Day
20: World COPD Day
21: Use Less Stuff Day
22: National flossing Day
23: Family Volunteer Day
24: National Sardines Day
25: National Brand Day
26: National Health Day
27: National Jukebox Day 28: THANKSGIVING DAY
29: Black Friday/Buy Nothing Day
Weekly Observances:
1-7: National Fig Week
13: National Kindness Week
Second week: National Nurse Practitioner Week//Dear Santa Letter Week//National Young Readers Week
Third week: Geography Awareness
Week Before Thanksgiving: National Hunger & Homeless Awareness Week
American Education Week
Week of Thanksgiving: National Bible Week//Better Conversation Week
Two Weekends Before Thanksgiving: National Donor Sabbath
Monthly Observances:
American Diabetes Month
Aviation History Month
Banana Pudding Lovers Month
Bladder Health Month
Gluten Free Diet Awareness Month
International Bereaved Sibling Month
National Veterans and Military Families Month
National Children’s Month
National Gratitude Month
National Sleep Comfort Month
Please join in prayer and according to your faith:
Dear Heavenly Father and Mighty God,
Thank you for Your amazing and eternal love. We humbly bow our heads and hearts before You on this Thanksgiving Day 2024 celebration and every day acknowledging the blessings and gifts You have bestowed upon us and within us. You are present with us daily-never leaving us alone, in every situation-every breath we breathe, every step taken-thank You Lord, thank You that in Your kindness-Your love, You continue to give us Hope. May we never take for granted but be forever grateful for Your every good and perfect gifts. We ask Lord that You bless those who have not and humbly ask for Your provision, infinite wisdom and generous Mercy and Comfort, thank You. Bless You Lord!
We ask that this prayer covers all throughout the world as well as this journey is travelled. Gracious Lord, for all You are and do, thank YOU! Thank You for hearing our prayers. May Your strength, please, we ask keep us strong; as we purposefully shall remain greatly and eternally grateful being blessed, in faith, hope, love, peace and forgiveness seeking in Your righteousness-renewing our spirits; and continuing in trusting, believing, declaring victory in Your blessings, in Your Holy Name, Amen.
“Enter His gates with thanksgiving in his courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name.” Psalm 100:4
“Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for His steadfast love endures forever!”
Psalm 107:1
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”
Philippians 4:6
"Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.”
Colossians 4:2
Please pass-it-on to others, thank you. Have safe, blessed, awe-inspiring and grateful celebrations!
Humbly In Patriotism, Peace, Prayer, Love, Service and Eternal Gratefulness,
Gwendolyn Gilliard
National Chaplain
Chaplain.MOPHA@gmail,com
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National Region 2 President
Linda Bellis
November is a month of gratitude. While we as a nation honor our veterans on November 11th each year, I know that all of us with the MOPHA honor the men and women every single day. A lot of us volunteer at the VA Hospitals, getting the veterans from the vans into their appointments. We also help at nursing homes; bringing items for the veterans, doing bingo, throwing birthday celebrations and helping with parties. And just as we are thankful for their sacrifices, they are thankful for our efforts and support.
Like many of you during this time of reflection, I remember the efforts of my loved ones who have served. My dad Verner fought in WWII and the Battle of the Bulge, and was honored with a Purple Heart and Silver Star. He taught how to honor the flag, how to fold it correctly, and the importance of honoring our veterans. My husband Dave, who took 2 tours in Vietnam and received a Purple Heart, inspires me every day. I am very thankful to them and every one of our veterans, and I make every effort to ensure the next generation remembers their sacrifices.
I work at a high school, where I remind the students it's the veterans who gave us the right to buy bread any day of the week. We can go to whatever church we want, and go to worship any time. Students have books, desks, a building that they go to. We can vote, work whatever job we want, and we can protest and have freedom of speech. It's because of these amazing men and women who did this for us.
To all of those who help and have helped our veterans - thank you, your efforts do not go unnoticed. Enjoy your time with family and friends this Thanksgiving!
Linda "Bellis" Bellis
Region 2 President
lbellis719@msn.com
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A word from your webmaster and Social Media Officer
Friends, We will be hosting our FUNdraising shirt sales soon. We will be unveiling the 2025 designs soon.
Our website is under construction. Completion is expected to be December 1, 2024.
Minutes from the 2024 National Convention will be shared soon. With over 12 hours and 800 pages of transcript, these things take time. They are currently in the verification stage of our final 3 hours of the meeting. (Whew! I will be glad to have them completed)
WE WANT YOUR NEWS & PHOTOS!
Send them to AFlener1@gmail.com for submissions to our social media sites!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Colleen Orfanello, PNP &
Amanda Flener, PNP
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GREAT JOB COLORADO UNIT 423! We welcome:
Celia Albrecht
Serenity Albrecht
Leilani Albrecht
Dayton Albrecht
Dottie Thomas
Denise Logue
Emily Campbell
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