MONTHLY ZOOM MEETING

Thursday, June 20, 2024

8 PM EST / 7PM CST / 6 PM MST/ 5 PM PST

PATRIOTS & GUESTS INVITED

LOGIN ONLINE: https://zoom.us/j/4981732263

MEETING ID: 4981732263

Passcode - 2020

Call in via telephone: 1-929-436-2866

Enter this Meeting ID: 4981 732 263

National President

Barbara Hale Ray

The Red, White, and The Blue

What does it mean when you see this Flag waving in the crisp morning sky? What emotions surface from you just to see it fly?

Sometimes it is hard to put our expressions on paper or talk about feelings we wish to share with others.

Flying a flag can evoke a wide range of emotions, often depending on the context, the flag itself, and personal experiences. Here are some common feelings that flag flying might evoke:

1. Pride: Seeing a flag, especially one representing your country, community, or a

cause you support, can fill you with a sense of pride and belonging.

2. Patriotism: A national flag can evoke a deep sense of patriotism, reminding you

of your homeland and its values, history, and achievements.

3. Unity: Flags often symbolize unity and solidarity, bringing people together under

a common identity or cause.

4. Respect: Flags are often flown to show respect, whether for a country, a group of

people, or a particular cause.

5. Remembrance: Flying a flag can be a way to honor and remember those who

have served or sacrificed.

6. Hope: Flags can be symbols of hope and resilience, especially in times of

struggle or after a significant event.

7. Joy: Seeing a flag flying during celebrations, such as sporting events or festivals,

can evoke feelings of joy and excitement.

I found when I drove in the Commerce City Parade a little while ago, I witnessed all

seven emotions displayed by drivers on I70 in Colorado. I drove our black truck all

dressed up with five Red, White, and Blue flags waving for all to see. To me, I was

so filled with pride and all-over ecstatic feelings, I just couldn’t contain myself with

pride.

No matter how much education you feel you know about the flag, there are many

opportunities you must use to educate people, especially younger generations about

the history and significance of the flag and the nation’s heritage.

Here are 10 interesting facts about the American Flag:

1. There have been 27 versions of the American Flag

2. The flag can be displayed for all 24 hours with proper illumination.

3. The colors were chosen carefully. The founding fathers wanted the colors to have

meaning, not just to look pleasing. Red symbolizes hardiness and valor, white

symbolizes purity and innocence and blue represents vigilance, perseverance

and justice.

4. The current design wasn’t professionally made. High school student, Robert G.

Heft, of Lancaster, Ohio who submitted the design in the contest in1958. It was

chosen out of over 2,500 submissions by President Dwight Eisenhower.

5. The current flag is the only one to have lasted more than 50 years.

6. A snippet of the flag the Star-Spangled Banner was written about was sold in

2011 and a 2” x 5” swatch of it was sold for $38,000. The rest of the flag is on display at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History,

7. The Flag has a National Day of Recognition. Flag Day which celebrates the

anniversary of the Flag Resolution of 1777, was established by the Proclamation

of President Woodrow Wilson on May 30th, 1916 after years of local celebrations.

8. Flags should be disposed of in a “dignified manner.” You can burn it with dignity.

9. The flag can touch the ground and still be used. If a flag is soiled or touches the

ground, it can be washed and dry cleaned and continue to be used.

10.Five American Flags have made it to the moon. Neil Armstrong is the person we

see with an American Flag, but 5 additional Apollo missions, 12, 14, 15, 16 and 17

ended with an Astronaut placing a flag on the moon.

I have 3 wonderful neighbors’ kids to write, “What Red, White, and Blue Means to

Me”. Below are their articles in their own language, depending on their grade level.

1. The meaning of Red, White, and Blue:

By Sophia Muresan

The meaning of red, white, and blue is a bigger meaning than a flag and it shows the people how they served our country and states. It shows to never give up and kindness and loyalty.

2. What Red, White, and Blue Means to Me

From Juliette B.

Since I am from America red, white, and blue are just normal colors to some people but to me they mean a lot more. Red means fallen soldiers as in their blood to honor them as much as we can. White means the states because in most states all across the world statues are white in their paint. Blue means the ocean as in how the

colors of a flag means much more to me.

3. What Red, White, and Blue Means to Me

By Joaquin B.

The American flag holds a special significance, and its colors carry deep symbolism. Understanding what these colors represent

provides insight into the values and principles that the flag embodies. The color red, with its vibrant hue, symbolizes courage and bravery. It serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifice and courage displayed by the American people throughout history. Whether in times of conflict or crisis, the red in the flag represents the

unwavering spirit and resilience of the nation. In contrast, the color white reflects purity and innocence. It stands for the hope and unity that binds the diverse population of the United States together. As a symbol. As a symbol of peace and

harmony, the white in the flag represents the collective aspirations for a better future.

Finally, the color blue embodies vigilance and justice. It serves as a reminder of the determination and resilience of the American people in upholding the values of freedom and equality. The blue in the flag represents the commitment to justice and the continuous pursuit of a better society for all. In conclusion, the American flag’s red, white, and blue collectively symbolize the courage, unity and justice that are fundamental to the nation’s identity. Understanding the profound meanings behind

these colors reinforce the importance of honoring and respecting the flag as a symbol of the values and principles that define the United States.

Flag Day or Red, White, Blue Day commemorates the adoption of the American Flag

and is a time to reflect on the country’s history, celebrate its achievements, and reaffirm their commitment to its ideal. Ultimately, the emotions associated with flag flying are highly personal and can vary widely among Seeing the red, white, and blue, particularly in the context of the American flag can evoke a variety of strong emotions and associations.

Barbara

BarbaraR.MOPHA@gmail.com

National Senior Vice President

Fran Holtgreven

80th Anniversary D-Day at Omaha Beach, Colleville-sur-Mer, Normandy, France:

Fran's account of her visit to Normandy: June 8, 2024

It is Saturday and the weather is bright and sunny, and we have finally arrived at Omaha Beach.  Our first stop is Overlord Museum on Omaha Beach where we are amazed at all the artifacts and information that we will need to really understand what happened 2 days before, 80 years ago. 

Parades, memorials, and military demonstrations are still being held throughout the Normandy region during the commemorative 80th anniversary D-Day celebration. D-Day will be celebrated June 1-9, 2024.  Every year villages, towns and cities in England and France celebrate the landing on June 6, 1944.  Great Britain starts the celebration on June 5 because that is the day 156,000 men, 7,000 ships, 10,000 vehicles and 11,590 allied aircraft started for the Normandy Beaches which led to the defeat of Nazi Germany and signaled a turning point in their lives.    People dressed in vintage 1940 attire walked the streets and roads of Normandy.  A parade of 150 vintage military vehicles from Europe, Britain and the United States, that were brought to France to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day, drove in front of the museum to Omaha Beach.  People of all ages, with flags from the United States, Britain and France attached to the vehicles waved at the crowd.  At the Normandy American Cemetery 172 acres are the final resting place of 9388 military personnel.  49 States are represented, 307 unknown soldiers, 38 set of brothers buried side by side, 1 Medal of Honor, and 4 women are buried at the Normandy American Cemetery.  1557 American remains have never been found.

It was an honor to present a small wreath and a minute of silence to the heroes who fought and died here. 

(Photos of Fran's experience can be found at the end of General Orders.)

Fran

Fran.MOPHA@gmail.com

National Junior Vice President

Teviah Gilliard

Hello and Happy June! 

This year is wrapping up quite rapidly- I cannot believe it! The auxiliary's Symposium will be here in no time, and before we even realize it, MOPHA National ZOOM will be upon us! Even with all of the deadlines that have passed, I hope you all are still collecting your F(family), L(Love), and A(Auxiliary) series dollar bills. After you have collected as much as you can, please write out and send your check to MOPHA National Treasurer, Tracy Derr. Many thanks and so much gratitude to those of you who were able to order a Hawaiian-inspired Purple Heart shirts! I sure can't wait until I receive mine and I've been enjoying the feedback that we've gotten over the months. We will share the results of the sales with you during this month's ZOOM meeting on 20 June 2024. See you there!

Teviah

Teviah.Gilliard@yahoo.com

National Secretary

Judy Fiddler

Hi Everyone...Can you believe Spring and June is almost over and the summer solstice is Thursday in the middle of a heat wave. I hope all is staying cool and that you are checking on family, friends and neighbors during this heat.

I want to thank everyone who sent their Installation report in on time. All of Region 1, 2 and 3 were turned in on time. I did not receive 7 this year. We did lose a few Units as well.

I also want to thank the officers who have sent in their year end reports. As a Department President, Region President or National Officer, it is part of your duties to report the activities going on under you. I have not received 14 reports.

Did you know that June 27 is National PTSD awareness day? PTSD is a mental illness that can manifest after experiencing traumatic events in your life. It may not appear for months, even years after the event but can affect a person emotionally, behaviorally and cognitively. Some signs could be anxiety or excessive worrying, irritability/anger, depression or the feeling of hopelessness. It is most often associated with Veterans who were in combat, but can happen to anyone who may have gone through sexual assault, abuse or witnessing a death. 

There is help available for those who suffer. Recognizing the early warning signs is the first step towards overcoming this condition. Those who go through trauma and find ways to cope and move on could have something called acute stress disorder. But if the memories continue to interfere with everyday tasks, this could be a sign of PTSD. Professional support/help is vital to healing and moving on from the past. Contact your local VA for more information.

The National ZOOM convention is still in the planning stages. More information to come very soon. See you soon....Judy

Judy

MOPHAUXSEC@Gmail.com

330-880-3364

National Sgt at Arms, VAVS Rep, Americanism Officer

Linda Varejcka

The 78th Annual VA Voluntary Service, National Advisory Committee (NAC) Meeting & Conference May 14-16, 2024 - St. Louis, Missouri

Educational Workshops I attended: a. Designing Programs for Broader Community Impact, b. Building Equity into Innovation, c. Navigating the Legal Landscape, d. Investing in What Matters.

Zack Gardner was honored at the James H. Parke Memorial Scholarship Luncheon and presented with a $20,000.00 scholarship. Veterans Healthcare System of the Ozarks Fayetteville, Arkansas. He was unable to attend since that was also his graduation day but sent a very nice video. Two other scholarship recipients were present and gave very good reports. National Advisory Committee Male Volunteer of the Year (Soldiers' Angels) VA Northern California Health Care System, Sacramento, CA. National Advisory Committee Female Volunteer of the Year: Diane Erickson (American Legion Auxiliary) VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System, Aurora, Colorado. Community Partnership Award: Todd Greenman VA Battle Creek Medical Center, Battle Creek, MI. Innovation Award: Anit Tyagi, VA Eastern Colorado Health Care system, Aurora, Colorado. VA CDCE Volunteer Supervisor Award: Brenda Barrios VA Palo Alto Health Care System Palo Alto, California. VA CDCE Executive Leadership Award: Demitric Franklin VA Central California Health Care System.

A highlight of the week was sitting with and talking with Dr. Betty Moseley Brown: Designated Federal Officer Caregiver Support Program, Veterans Health Adm.

Some facts you might find very interesting from Annual Report: (These from the 2023 Fiscal year which is October 1, 2022 thru September 30, 2023.

Total Donations: $81,102,650 - Unique Donors:  44,847 - Number of Donations:  85,829, - Regular Scheduled Volunteer Hours:  3,254,607, - Occasional Volunteers:  59,954, - Occasional Volunteer Hours:  280.083, - total Regular/Occasional Volunteer Hours: 3,534,690, TOTAL VOLUNTEER HOUR VALUE (from independent sector ($31.80 per hour)

$112,403,142, Total Resource Impact: $193,505.792 WOW!!!

WANTED:

Does anybody know where I can get copies of the three books written and Illustrated by: Heather French Henry.

Pepper's Purple Heart, (a Veterans Day Story) Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Jellybeans, (a fourth of July Story and What Freedom Means to Me, (a Flag Day Story). 

She spoke at an auxiliary meeting at Nationals several years ago. They sold for $15.00 each. I got a set for the 3 grandkids I had at the time and now would like to buy a set for my other 2 grandkids.

 If I could find them I would consider getting a 3rd set and donate to the grandkids school library. Or if someone has in their bookcase and would like to sell as long as in good condition I would consider that also.

Linda

JFVarejcka@windstream.net

Social Media Communications Officer

Amanda Flener, PNP

Send us your photos to share!

Amanda

aflener1@gmail.com

Also from the Desk of the MOPHA National Chaplain - June 2024

Chaplain’s Note and Zoom:  The last Chaplain’s Zoom had to be rescheduled. 

Let’s try it again for this month on the fourth Thursday, 27 June, please.

There are a few important items that needs to be discussed-looking forward to seeing you.

Prayer Request: This is your Time-it will be ‘Your Prayer’; please join in:

“They were all continually united in prayer.” (Acts 1:14)

 … And in closing Father God, thank You for being our Heavenly Father Whom by Your presence demonstrates what a loving Father is like. Thank You for being so loving, kind, generous and forgiving. We ask Abba that our earthly Fathers will seek You, look to You for wisdom and an increase in knowledge and to be imitators like You with Your help. We ask that their hearts and minds will be open to receive what Your grace and mercy offers. We lift up all fathers, grandfathers, and loving memories of fathers who are no longer with us, those present, future; those separated from their children for unknown reason; and those longing to be a father-we ask that You bless and keep them Father God, thank You. We lift up all of the events creating pain and anguish we’re experiencing to Your Sovereignty. We thank You for hearing our prayers and meeting us at our needs and concerns according to Your purpose. Thank You for Your power and Your immeasurably love, Your sweet, amazing grace and mercy that endures forever, we declare in Your Holy Name of Jesus, Bless You Father. AMEN.

^“But those who hope in the Lord    will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles;   they will run and not grow weary,    they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:21(NIV)

To God be the glory! Take care, stay beautiful, stay cool, stay hydrated, stay safe, stay aware and prepared, stay abundantly blessed and always in God’s grace! And don’t forget the sunscreen.

Humbly in His Love,

Peace, Patriotism and Prayer

Gwendolyn,

 National MOPHA Chaplain

Numbers 6:24-26

Chaplain.MOPHA@gmail.com

REGIONAL NEWS

REGION 5

We would like to extend an enormous "THANK YOU" to Region 5's Unit 375 in Colorado for generously donating $4,000 to the MOPHA National Fund.

OUR HEARTS ARE FULL!!!!

THANK YOU AGAIN for your kindness and generosity!

REGION 2

Region 2 President

Karen Larabel

GREETINGS REGION 2

Whenever we Military Order of the Purple Heart Members are together, we always salute our flag that we love. A history on “Making of the Flag” – Mary Pickersgill (1776-1857), 37

year old widow was contracted in the summer of 1813 to sew two flags for Fort McHenry in Baltimore, Maryland. The one that became the Star-Spangled Banner was 30 x 42 foot garrison flag; the other was a 17 x 25 foot storm flag for use in inclement weather. Mary was experienced at making ships’ colors and signal flags. She filled orders for many of the military and merchant ships that sailed into Baltimore’s busy port. Mary had help from her daughter Caroline (13yo); nieces Eliza Young (13yo) and Margaret Young (15yo);

and Grace Wisher (13 yo) African American indentured servant. Mary’s mother, Rebecca Young, from whom she had learned flagmaking, may have helped as well.

They spent about 7 weeks making the two flags. They assembled the blue canton and the red and white stripes of the flag by piecing together strips of loosely woven English wool bunting that were only 12 or 18 inches wide. The 30 X 42 foot flag overwhelmed the cramped rooms of Pickersgill’s house. She moved the operation

across the street to the more spacious Claggett’s brewery. There they assembled the pieces of the flag and placed cotton stars on the blue canton.

With hand over my heart, I salute our flag with you.

Karen

National Region II President

kslarabel1@sbcglobal.net

616-717-1056

REGION 4

PLEASE register for the Auxiliary Symposium in Orlando before July 1st if you plan on attending. Even if you "think" you may attend, in order for us to purchase project items in advance.

There is no charge to attend the Auxiliary symposium.

We hope to have an agenda soon when a final headcount is in.

www.PurpleHeartAuxilairy.org/convention

2024 MOPHA National Convention Will Be VIRTUALY HELD on AUGUST 9-11, 2024

VIA ZOOM.

An Unofficial Auxiliary Symposium will be held during the MOPH National Convention in Orlando July 15-17, 2024. Please register on our website to attend in order for enough items to be purchased.

Convention Items for Sale: (When prompted for a MOPH member number, simply type "None. I am MOPHA")

Convention Coin Only

$6.00

Order Here

​

Convention Coin & Pin

$25.00

Order Here

​

Gala Dinner

July 17, 2024 - Orlando Rosen Plaza

Formal/semi-formal dinner. Please make sure to choose Chicken, Salmon, or Vegetarian meal for each Gala ticket purchased when completing the registration process.

$89/person.

Order Here

​

100% Silk Regimental Tie

$ 49.00

Order Here

​

Convention T Shirts

$ 26-28

Order Here

​

MORE SYMPOSIUM INFO:

For those that would like to purchase a hotel room in Orlando for the Symposium, it is $139 per night plus tax. Please use this link to book a room:

91st MOPH National Convention Hotel Reservations Link

If you are interested in purchasing a Sponsorship/Convention Book advertisement, please click the link below for more information.

Click here for the 2024 Convention Sponsorship form.

Click HERE for information on scooter rentals. The prices range from $35/day to $60/day with a 2-day minimum rental.

NOTE: ***If you are having issues with payment on the Department of Florida registration website, please call your bank and inform them that you are trying to register for the Military Order of the Purple Heart National Convention and the charges are legitimate. ***

Also, there are many Rosen hotels in Orlando, please make sure you will select the Rosen Plaza at 9700 International Drive in Orlando.

SHUTTLE INFO FOR CONVENTION/SYMPOSIUM:

91st MOPH National Convention-Orlando, Florida Transportation

Shuttle Service From MCO-Orlando Airport to Rozen Plaza Hotel:

Friday, 12 & Saturday, 13 July 2024: No Shuttle Service Available.

Sunday, 14 July 2024: Shuttle Service Available from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Please look for Uniformed Sea Cadets who will be at Terminals A & B. They will direct MOPH/MOPHA members and their Guests to the 14 Passenger Shuttles. {Operated by the Sprinter Corp.}

No Shuttle Service Available Monday,15, Tuesday, 16, or Wednesday, 17 July 2024.

Shuttle Service From Rozen Plaza Hotel to MCO-Orlando Airport:

Thursday, 18 JULY 2024. Departures from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

No Shuttle Service Available After 18 July 2024.

THERE IS NO SHUTTLE SERVICE AVAILABLE FROM/TO THE OTHER AIRPORTS IN THE GREATER ORLANDO FLORIDA. 

Click here for the PATRIOT Convention Schedule

Click here for the Gala Schedule

Click here to purchase Raffle Items, including a gas powered scooter!

Click Here - 1 ticket for $10.00

Click Here - 3 tickets for $20.00

Click Here - 15 tickets for $100

As we approach the end of another impactful year for the Order, it's essential to take a moment to acknowledge and express our deepest gratitude for the invaluable contributions of our Military Order of the Purple Heart Auxiliary members. Your unwavering support, dedication, and selflessness have been instrumental in our group's success and have made a profound difference in the lives of our Patriot members.

Your tireless efforts behind the scenes have provided crucial support and assistance to the order. Whether it's coordinating events, managing logistics, or offering a helping hand wherever needed, your contributions have been the backbone of our operations, allowing us to fulfill our mission effectively.

Your creative fundraising initiatives and resource mobilization efforts have provided vital financial support and resources for the Auxiliary and the programs you support. Whether it's organizing fundraising events, soliciting donations, or securing sponsorships, your dedication to securing the resources you need to fulfill your mission has been truly commendable.

 Beyond your tangible contributions, your friendship, camaraderie, and compassion have enriched the fabric of the Order. Your willingness to lend a listening ear, offer words of encouragement, and share in both the triumphs and challenges of our journey has made the Order stronger, more resilient, and more united.

On behalf of the Order, I want to express our deepest gratitude and appreciation for your extraordinary dedication and your service as the MOPH Auxiliary members. Your commitment to our shared mission of supporting and honoring our Patriots is an inspiration to us all, and we are incredibly fortunate to have you as part of our team.

Thank you for your selfless service, unwavering dedication, and the profound impact you have made with the Military Order of the Purple Heart. Your contributions will be remembered and cherished for years to come.

With deepest gratitude and respect,

Carder Ferguson

National Commander

Military Order of the Purple Heart

2023-2024

ARE YOU CONSIDERING RUNNING FOR A REGIONAL or NATIONAL OFFICE?

If you are considering running for a Region President position or one of a National Officer, please turn in your "Letter of Intent" to Judy Fiddler as soon as possible to be read during our National Convention in August. The deadline has passed, but the letter (ESPECIALLY) if you cannot take place, will allow us to identify and encourage candidates.

We have a nomination for Region 2 and Region 4 Presidents, Regions 1, 3, 5, and 6 are in need of candidates. National Jr. Vice President is also needed.

Do not feel that you are unqualified to run for office. Your leadership team is here to support you on your MOPHA journey.

Webmaster

Colleen Orfanello, PNP

SEEKING VETERANS IN PENSYLVANIA, NEW YORK, MARYLAND, NEW JERSEY, VIRGINIA, OR DC AREA WHO ARE IN NEED OF A WALK-IN SHOWER OR BATH!!!

We are assisting a company who wishes to donate a life-enhancing, and often life-saving Veteran a walk in shower or bathtub. This program is amazing and for the last 11 years, I am always in awe at the service and compassion it gives to the recipient.

PLEASE SHARE! The Veteran does not have to be a Purple Heart Recipient. There is absolutely NO CHARGE for this service. More information will be shared on Thursday night's Zoom.

DID YOU KNOW...

The May/June edition of the Purple Heart Magazine is here. Click the link to view this edition.

This is our last General Orders before the new MOPH term. If you have questions for the new 2024-2025 MOPH leadership team, please let us know so we can receive the answers before our convention in August.

And also, may we honor our Purple Heart Fathers, both living and deceased, that through their service, have provided the link for us to be a party of our beloved Purple Heart Auxiliary.

Colleen

webmaster.MOPHA@Gmail.com

CLICK HERE for the May/June Issue.

Reflecting on the 80th Anniversary of the Normandy Invasion.

Photos by: National MOPHA Sr. President Fran Holtgreven:

CLICK HERE to shop online and support our Auxiliary.

Rada has amazing cutlery and items that would be perfect in your kitchen or to give as a gift.