Ryan Lake - Nov 9, 2024
It was another great Veterans Day outing & celebration for VVA chapter 1069 members, spouses and their family members at Mike Ryan's lake property! Use the link below to read the full report with pictures.
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Veterans Family Day Outing
Ryan Lake - Nov 9, 2024 |
It was another great Veterans Day outing & celebration for VVA chapter 1069 members, spouses and their family members at Mike Ryan's lake property! Use the link below to read the full report with pictures. |
Dec 2023 Christmas Parade
VVA Chapter 1069 - El Campo, TX |
VVA Chapter 1069 participated in the El Campo Christmas parade, held on Thursday, December 7th, 2023. This was the 6th time that our chapter participated in the Christmas parade. Please click on the link below to see a detailed report of the parade, including pictures of the float preparation and pictures taken during the parade. |
Veterans Family Day Outing
Ryan Lake - Nov 11, 2023 |
It was another great Veterans Day outing & celebration for VVA chapter 1069 members, spouses and their family members at Mike Ryan's lake property! Use the link below to read the full report with pictures. |
ECISD Veterans Day Parade
El Campo, Texas, Nov 17, 2023 |
The El Campo ISD again hosted a Veterans Day parade for the 3rd year in El Campo, Texas. The parade was held on Friday, November 17, 2023, from 8:15 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. The Veterans met at the El Campo Civic Center parking lot at 8:10 a.m., and the paraded started at 8:15 a.m., with the El Campo High School Band performing the “Star Spangled Banner” and “TAPS” to honor fallen soldiers. Veterans then followed the parade leader to each El Campo ISD campus, including the St. Philips Catholic School. Click on the link below to read the full report. |
Nov 2023 LNRA Veterans Dinner
VVA Chapter 1069 - El Campo |
On Friday, November 10, 2021, several chapter members and spouses attended the Lavaca Navidad River Authority (LNRA) Veterans Ceremony & Appreciation Dinner, held at the Brackenridge Main Event Center. The Main Event Center is located just outside of Brackenridge park, at the North end of Lake Texana, between Ganado and Edna. Use the link below to read the report with pictures. |
Vietnam War Veterans Day Fellowship
Columbus, Texas - March 29, 2023 |
El Campo VVA Chapter 1069 and 4 other local area VVA Chapters (Columbus, Hallettsville, Schulenburg & Victoria) together, planned and attended a Fellowship Gathering to honor "National Vietnam War Veterans Day" on March 29, 2023. The event was held at Columbus hall located in Columbus, Texas. Over 100 VVA members (of the 5 VVA Chapters) and their spouses attended the event! Total attendance was approximately 200+. This was the second year the chapters have held the event. Note that this event was open only to members of the 5 mentioned chapters. Use the link below to read the full report with pictures. |
Dec 2022 Christmas Party
VVA Chapter 1069 - El Campo |
Texas VVA Chapter 1069 held its 11th annual Christmas Party at Mikeska's BBQ in El Campo. Approximately 65 members, spouses & guests attended this year's Christmas party! The Social hour lasted from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Wine, beer, punch & snacks were enjoyed before the meal, with a gift raffle following the meal and a short meeting. Chapter Vice President, Larry Monroe (picture at left, far right), served as host for the evening event. The evening dinner was catered by Mikeska's BBQ. The membership enjoyed roast beef, buttered mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, salad, with peach cobbler & ice cream for dessert. The Mikeska staff really did a wonderful job preparing and serving the meal and the chapter thanks them for the great job they did. Click on the link below to read the full report, with pictures. |
Dec 2022 Christmas Parade
VVA Chapter 1069 - El Campo, TX |
VVA Chapter 1069 participated in the El Campo Christmas parade, held on Thursday, December 1st, 2022. This was the 5th time that our chapter participated in the Christmas parade. Please click on the link below to see a detailed report of the parade, including pictures of the float preparation and pictures taken during the parade. |
Veterans Family Day Outing
Ryan Lake - Nov 12, 2022 |
It was another great Veterans Day outing & celebration for VVA chapter 1069 members, spouses and their family members at Mike Ryan's lake property! Use the link below to read the full report with pictures. |
ECISD Veterans Day Parade
El Campo, Texas, Nov 11, 2022 |
The El Campo ISD again hosted a Veterans Day parade for the second year in El Campo, Texas. The parade was held on Friday, November 11, 2022, from 8:15 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. The Veterans met at the El Campo Civic Center parking lot at 8:10 a.m., and the paraded started at 8:15 a.m., with the El Campo High School Band performing the “Star Spangled Banner” and “TAPS” to honor fallen soldiers. Veterans then followed the parade leader to each El Campo ISD campus, including the St. Philips Catholic School. Click on the link below to read the full report. |
11 Veterans Honored
Augie Limas - Oct 15, 2022 |
Long time Chapter member Augie Limas (photo left) was honored for his Vietnam War service at the Leon County Expo Center in Centerville Texas and nearby Leon County Exhibit hall in Buffalo Texas, on Saturday, October 15th, 2022. Use the link below to read the full report with pictures. |
Vietnam War Veterans Day Fellowship
Ammannsville, TX - March 29, 2022 |
El Campo VVA Chapter 1069 and 4 other local area VVA Chapters (Columbus, Hallettsville, Schulenburg & Victoria) together, planned and attended a Fellowship Gathering to honor "National Vietnam War Veterans Day" on March 29, 2022. The event was held at the KJT hall located in Ammannsville, Texas. Over 100 VVA members (of the 5 VVA Chapters) and their spouses attended the event! Total attendance was approximately 200+. As far as we know, this was the first time a gathering like this has taken place in this part of Texas. Note that this event was open only to members of the 5 mentioned chapters. Use the link below to read the full report with pictures. |
Dec 2021 Christmas Party
VVA Chapter 1069 - El Campo |
Texas VVA Chapter 1069 held its 10th annual Christmas Party at Mikeska's BBQ in El Campo. Approximately 95 members, spouses & guests attended this year's Christmas party! The Social hour lasted from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Wine, beer, punch & snacks were enjoyed before the meal, with a gift raffle following the meal and a short meeting. Chapter President, Joe McCreary, served as host for the evening event. The evening dinner was catered by Mikeska's BBQ. The membership enjoyed roast beef, buttered mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, salad, with peach cobbler & ice cream for dessert. The Mikeska staff really did a wonderful job preparing and serving the meal and the chapter thanks them for the great job they did. Click on the link below to read the full report, with pictures. |
Dec 2021 Christmas Parade Float
VVA Chapter 1069 - El Campo, TX |
VVA Chapter 1069 participated in the El Campo Christmas parade, held on Thursday, December 2nd, 2021. This was the 4th time that our chapter participated in the Christmas parade. Thursday was a pleasant overcast day in El Campo, with temperatures in the 60s. All of which resulted in thousands of parade well-wishers lining the entire parade route. Please click on the link below to see a detailed report of the parade, including pictures of the float preparation and pictures taken during the parade. |
2021 Veterans Day Parade
VVA Chapter 1069 - El Campo |
VVA Chapter 1069 members & spouses attended and participated in the El Campo ISD sponsored Veterans Day Parade, held on November 11, 2021 in El Campo, Texas. |
Nov 2021 LNRA Veterans Dinner
VVA Chapter 1069 - El Campo |
On Thursday, November 11, 2021, several chapter members and spouses attended the Lavaca Navidad River Authority (LNRA) Veterans Ceremony & Appreciation Dinner, held at the Brackenridge Main Event Center. The Main Event Center is located just outside of Brackenridge park, at the North end of Lake Texana, between Ganado and Edna. Use the link below to read the report with pictures. |
VVA Chapter 1069 - El Campo, Texas
2021 Vietnam Veterans Family Day Outing
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Texas VVA Chapter 1069 held its 6th annual Veterans Family Day outing. Many members, spouses and family members of the Vietnam Veterans of America, VVA Chapter 1069, of El Campo, Texas, attended a Vietnam Veterans Family Day outing at Ryan Lake, on Saturday, November 13, 2021. The outing was hosted by Mike and Nancy Ryan, supporters of all Veterans organizations and Veterans in the Wharton County area and great friends of VVA Chapter 1069. VVA Chapter 1069 sends a big Thank-You to Mike & Nancy, for a great outing and wonderful catered meal. Click on the image to the left to view or print the full size photo. |
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The Everyday Heroes organization of El Campo, Texas, held its annual fundraiser banquet on Wednesday, Oct 6, 2021, in the El Campo Civic Center. Everyday Heroes is a local organization that helps Veterans by providing daily transportation to & from various Veteran medical facilities in the area, including Houston. Approximately 30 Members & spouses of VVA Chapter #1069, of El Campo, attended and participated in the fundraiser.
Special guest speaker was Marcus Lutrell. Marcus is a retired United States Navy SEAL, who received the Navy Cross for his actions in 2005 facing Taliban fighters during Operation Red Wing. Marcus gave a very interesting presentation. Use the link below for more information about Marcus.
Click Here for a full Report & Pictures
2020 Christmas Party
Chapter Vice President Leonard Sternadel |
Texas VVA Chapter 1069 held its 9th annual Christmas Party at Mikeska's BBQ in El Campo. Approximately 40 members, spouses & guests attended the Christmas party. Attendance was lighter this year due to the Covid virus, but still a great turnout! Social distancing and face masks were the order for the event. The Social hour lasted from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Wine, beer, punch & snacks were enjoyed before the meal, with a gift raffle following the meal and a short meeting. Chapter Vice President, Leonard Sternadel, served as host for the evening event (see photo at left). The evening dinner was catered by Mikeska's BBQ. The membership enjoyed chicken fried steak, buttered mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, salad, with peach cobbler & ice cream for dessert. The Mikeska staff really did a wonderful job preparing and serving the meal and the chapter thanks them for the great job they did. Click on the link below to read the full report, with pictures. NOTE: Leonard received special recognition during the meeting portion of the party, so be sure to read the entire report! |
VVA Chapter 1069 - El Campo, Texas
2020 Vietnam Veterans Family Day Outing
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Texas VVA Chapter 1069 held its 5th annual Veterans Family Day outing... Many members, spouses and family members of the Vietnam Veterans of America, VVA Chapter 1069, of El Campo, Texas, attended a Vietnam Veterans Family Day outing at Ryan Lake, on Saturday, November 14, 2020. The outing was hosted by Mike Ryan (far right in photo), supporter of all Veterans organizations and Veterans in the Wharton County area. Thanks Mike, for a great outing and wonderful chicken noodle soup cooked on site, along with chicken salad sandwiches! Click on the link below to read the report, with pictures. |
Everyday Heroes Fundraiser Banquet
El Campo Civic Center, 10/21/2020
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The Everyday Heroes organization of El Campo, Texas, held its annual fundraiser banquet on Wednesday, Oct 21, 2020, in the El Campo Civic Center. Everyday Heroes is a local organization that helps Veterans by providing daily transportation to & from various Veteran medical facilities in the area, including Houston. Approximately 40 Members & spouses of VVA Chapter #1069, of El Campo, attended and participated in the fundraiser. Special guest speaker was Shilo Harris (photo at left), a wounded veteran of the Iraqi war. Click on the link below to read the report. |
Wreaths Across America Ceremony 2019
Oaklawn Cemetary, El Campo, 12/14/2019
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Members of VVA Chapter #1069 participated in the Wreaths Across America ceremony, held at Oaklawn Cemetery in El Campo, on Saturday, December 14th, 2019. Chapter Vice President, Leonard Sternadel thanks those members who attended and/or participated the ceremony, and also expresses his gratitude to those members who volunteered to later place wreaths at various cemeteries in Wharton County and other surrounding Counties. |
2019 Christmas Party
Chapter President Frank Laitkep and spouse Gertrude |
VVA Chapter #1069 held its 8th annual Christmas party on Wednesday, December 11th, 2019. The party was held in the banquet room of Mikeska's BBQ, located off Hwy 59 in El Campo, Texas. There were 100+ total attendees, which included Chapter members, their spouses and guests. Good food, friendly camaraderie, and plenty of refreshments were had by all. The Chapter would like to thank Gerry & Nick Mikeska for being such great supportors of VVA Chapter 1069. The Chapter would also like to thank the entire Mikeska staff for all the hard work and effort they put into the planning and serving of our Christmas party meal. They all did one heck of a job! |
Dec 2019 Christmas Parade Float
VVA Chapter 1069 - El Campo, TX |
VVA Chapter 1069 participated in the El Campo Christmas parade, held on Thursday, December 5th, 2019. This was the 3rd time that our chapter participated in the Christmas parade. Thursday was a pleasant overcast day in El Campo, with temperatures in the 70s. All of which resulted in thousands of parade well-wishers lining the entire parade route. Please click on the link below to see a detailed report of the parade, including pictures of the float preparation and pictures taken during the parade. |
Vietnam Veterans Family Day Outing
Nov 9, 2019 - Mike Ryan Lake
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Many members, spouses & family members of the Vietnam Veterans of America, VVA Chapter 1069, of El Campo, Texas, attended a Vietnam Veterans Family Day outing at Ryan Lake, on Saturday, November 9, 2019. The outing was hosted by Mike Ryan, supporter of all Veterans organizations and Veterans in the Wharton County area. Thanks Mike, for a great outing and wonderful BBQ meal cooked on site! |
Texana Veterans Ceremony & Dinner
Nov 7, 2019, Brackenridge Center
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Several VVA Chapter 1069 members & spouses attended the annual Texana Veterans Ceremony and Dinner, held on November 7, 2019, at the Brackenridge Main Event Center, located near Lake Texana. |
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Many Members of VVA Chapter #1069 attended the EveryDay Heroes 2019 annual Fundraiser event, held in El Campo, Texas. The Fundraiser was held on Wednesday, Oct 9, 2019, at the El Campo, Civic Center. EveryDay Heroes is a local Veterans Support organization, based in El Campo, that provides various help for local veterans. VVA Chapter 1069 Vice-President, Leonard Sternadel and chapter member Ronnie Miller presented the "Missing Man Table" (image left) rememberance ceremony to all those attending the event. CLICK HERE to Read the Full Report |
Nada/Garwood Gadabouts Society
Vietnam Veterans Luncheon 2019
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Members of VVA Chapter #1069 and their spouses attended the annual Vietam Veterans luncheon & program, sponsored by the "Nada/Garwood Texas, Gadabouts Society" and "Everyday Heroes, Inc." The event was held Thursday, June 27, 2019, at the Nada Community Center Fellowship Hall. The guest speaker was Clayton Ryan, officer of "Everyday Heroes, Inc.", of El Campo, Texas, a Veterans Service organization. The annual meal and program is to show support for all Vietnam Veterans in the Wharton and surrounding Counties area and was held in honor of Vietnam Veterans service to our Country. Click on the link below to read the full report of the event, with photos. |
Roy P. Benavidez
Hwy-71 Dedication Ceremony
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Members of VVA Chapter #1069 participated in the Hwy Naming Ceremony for Congressional Medal of Honor recipient and Vietnam War Veteran, Roy P. Benavidez, Ceremony, held on Saturday, March 23rd, 2019, at the El Campo Civic Center. A big Thank-You to those VVA Chapter 1069 members who attended the ceremony, including chapter member, Paul Francoeur, who provided the photos and event details. |
Wreaths Across America Ceremony 2018
Oaklawn Cemetary, El Campo, 12/15/2018
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Members of VVA Chapter #1069 participated in the Wreaths Across America ceremony, held at Oaklawn Cemetery in El Campo, on Saturday, December 15th, 2018. Chapter President, Leonard Sternadel (far left in photo) thanks those members who attended the ceremony, and also expresses his gratitude to those members who volunteered to later place wreaths at various cemeteries in Wharton County and other surrounding Counties. |
2018 Christmas Party
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VVA Chapter #1069 held its 7th annual Christmas party on Wednesday, December 12th, 2018. The party was held in the banquet room of Mikeska's BBQ, located off Hwy 59 in El Campo, Texas. There were 100+ total attendees, which included Chapter members, their spouses and guests. Good food, friendly camaraderie, and plenty of refreshments were had by all. The Chapter would like to thank Gerry & Nick Mikeska for being such great supportors of VVA Chapter 1069. The Chapter would also like to thank the entire Mikeska staff for all the hard work and effort they put into the planning and serving of our Christmas party meal. They all did one heck of a job! |
Vietnam Veterans Family Day Outing
Nov 10, 2018 - Mike Ryan Lake
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VVA Many members, spouses & family members of the Vietnam Veterans of America, VVA Chapter 1069, of El Campo, Texas, attended a Vietnam Veterans Family Day outing at Ryan Lake, on Saturday, November 10, 2018. The outing was hosted by Mike Ryan, local supporter of all Veterans organizations and Veterans. Thanks Mike, for a great outing and wonderful meal! |
2018 Fishing Party in El Campo
 Sternadel Catfish Pond |
VVA Chapter #1069 held its annual Fishing party at the Sternadel pond on Sunday, June 3rd, 2018. We had a total attendance of 35+ members, spouses & guests. As the photo on the left shows, there was plenty of cover provided to protect folks from the hot sun while they were fishing or just sitting around enjoying the opportunity to visit with each other. Even an inflatable jump-house was provided for the kids! Click on link below for a complete report of the event with pictures included. |
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Memorial Day 2018 Ganado, Texas 
American Legion Post #346Leonard Sternadel Guest Speaker |
A group of VVA Chapter #1069 members and spouses attended a Memorial Day Program on Monday, May 28th, 2018. The event was held in Ganado, Texas, and was sponsored by the Ganado American Legion, Post #346. Our chapter President, Leonard Sternadel was invited to speak at the program (see photo at left). The Legion leadership also offered a special open invitation to our entire membership to also attend the event. The Legion put on a wonderful and patriotic program. After the program, a full menu breakfast was served by the local KCs to everyone that attended. VVA Chapter 1069 would like to thank Ganado American Legion Post #346 for inviting VVA Chapter 1069 to participate in and attend the Memorial Day Program. Use the link below to read the complete report of the Program, along with more photos. |
2017 Christmas Party
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VVA Chapter #1069 held its 6th annual Christmas party on Wednesday, December 13th, 2017. The party was held in the banquet room of Mikeska's BBQ, located off Hwy 59 in El Campo, Texas. There were 112 total attendees, which included Chapter members, their spouses and guests. Good food, friendly camaraderie, and plenty of refreshments were had by all. The Chapter would like to thank Gerry & Nick Mikeska for being such great supportors of VVA Chapter 1069. The Chapter would also like to thank the entire Mikeska staff for all the hard work and effort they put into the planning and serving of our Christmas party meal. They all did one heck of a job! |
2017 Vietnam Veterans Family Day
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The photo at left shows some of the chapter members of VVA Chapter 1069 that attended the Vietnam Veterans Family Day event at Ryan Lake. The outing was held on Veterans Day, Saturday, 11/11/2017. Much thanks to Ryan & family for hosting the event for all Vietnam Veterans of VVA Chapter 1069 and their family members. Everyone had a great day of camaraderie and good fishing! Over 70 people attended the outing. Use the link below to see more photos taken at the event. |
2017 NG Family Day
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The photo at left shows the chapter members of VVA Chapter 1069 that attended the National Guard Family Day event. The VVA Chapter members helped setup the food serving line and then also served the food to all the National Guard and their family members. Estimated overall attendance to the event were 300+. Leonard Sternadel, President of VVA Chapter 1069 would like to thank all those chapter members (and spouses) who came out to help with the event. Use the link below to see more photos of our chapter members taken at the event. |
Veterans Appreciation Day
Garwood/Nada Gadabouts Society
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Members of VVA Chapter #1069 attended a Veterans Appreciation Day in Garwood Texas on June 15, 2017. The event was sponsored by the Garwood/Nada Gadabouts Society. The event was held at the Lehrer Memorial United Methodist Church, in Garwood, Texas. Use the link below to read the complete summary report of the event with many photos included. |
2017 Agent Orange Town Hall
 Victoria College Emerging Technology Complex |
VVA Chapter #1069 was one of the sponsors for the Agent Orange/Hepatitis-C Town Hall meeting that was held Saturday, March 18, 2017, in Victoria, Texas. The event was a huge success! The event was held at the Victoria College Emerging Technology Complex, located in Victoria, Texas. Use the link below to read the complete summary report of the event with many photos included. |
2016 Christmas Party
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VVA Chapter #1069 held its 5th annual Christmas party on Wednesday, December 14th, 2016. The party was held in the banquet room of Mikeska's BBQ, located off Hwy 59 in El Campo, Texas. There were 100 total attendees, which included Chapter members, their spouses and guests. Good food, friendly camaraderie, and plenty of refreshments were had by all. The Chapter would like to thank Gerry & Nick Mikeska for being such great supportors of VVA Chapter 1069. The Chapter would also like to thank the entire Mikeska staff for all the hard work and effort they put into the planning of our Christmas party. They all did one heck of a job! |
Vietnam Veterans Family Day
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Saturday, November 12th, 2016, was a good day for VVA Chapter 1069 members and their families as they enjoyed a wonderful afternoon of commaraderie, fishing and good food in the country. Use the link below to see more photos of our chapter members taken at the event. |
2016 NG Family Day
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The photo at left shows the chapter members of VVA Chapter 1069 that attended the National Guard Family Day event. The VVA Chapter members helped setup the food serving line and then also served the food to all the National Guard and their family members. Estimated overall attendance to the event were at least 200+. Luckily, the rain held off during the outdoor event and the weather turned out to be very pleasant. Leonard Sternadel, President of VVA Chapter 1069 would like to thank all those chapter members (and spouses) who came out to help with the event. Use the link below to see more photos of our chapter members taken at the event. |
2016 Tribute to Vietnam Veterans
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The photo at left shows the 19 total chapter members & spouses of VVA Chapter 1069 that attended the "Tribute to Vietnam Veterans" program, that was held on Thursday, August 11th at 2:00 PM, at the Wharton County Historical Museum. The program was hosted by the "Comfort Wood Chapter" of the Wharton County "Daughters of the American Revolution" (DAR). Use the link below to read the complete report of the event, along with photos taken at the program. Read the full Report with Pictures Visit the Wharton County DAR Comfort Wood Chapter website |
2016 Veterans Summit in Victoria
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VVA Chapter #1069 members attended the Veterans Summit on Saturday, July 23th, 2016, held in Victoria, Texas. The event was held at the new Victoria College Technology Center. The event was sponsored by Congressman Blake Farenthold. Photo at left shows the booth that our chapter members setup at the event. Approxamately 40 vendors & organizations who provide various services and products for Veterans, attended the event. Congressman Farenthold and several others spoke at the event, including a representative from VA who took questions from veterans during a Q&A session. Nine chapter members and spouses helped setup and man the booth during the day-long event. VVA Chapter 1069 would like to thank Congressman Blake Farenthold and his office staff for inviting VVA Chapter 1069 to participate in the Veteran Summit. Use the link below to read the complete report of the event, along with photos taken at the event. |
Memorial Day 2016 in Ganado
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A group of VVA Chapter #1069 members and spouses attended a Memorial Day Program on Monday, May 30th, 2016. The event was held in Ganado, Texas, and was sponsored by the Ganado American Legion, Post #346. Our chapter President, Leonard Sternadel was invited to speak at the program (see photo at left). The Legion leadership also offered a special open invitation to our entire membership to also attend the event. The Legion put on a wonderful and patriotic program. After the program, a full menu breakfast was served to everyone that attended. VVA Chapter 1069 would like to thank Ganado American Legion Post #346 for inviting VVA Chapter 1069 to participate in and attend the Memorial Day Program. Use the link below to read the complete report of the Program, along with more photos. |
2016 Fishing Party in El Campo
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VVA Chapter #1069 held its annual "Catch-Clean-Fry & Eat" Catfish Fishing party at the Sternadel pond on Saturday, May 14th, 2016. We had a total attendance of 45+ members, spouses & guests. By the late afternoon, we had caught several tubs full of catfish, that were later fried up for some good eats. As the photo on the left shows, there was plenty of cover provided to protect folks from the hot sun while they were fishing or just sitting around enjoying the opportunity to visit with each other. Even an inflatable jump-house was provided for the kids! Click on link below for a complete report of the event with pictures included. |
2015 Christmas Party
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VVA Chapter #1069 held its 4th annual Christmas party on Wednesday, December 9th, 2015. The party was held in the banquet room of Mikeska's BBQ, located in El Campo, Texas, just off Hwy 59. There were 94 total attendees, which included Chapter members, their spouses and guests. Good food, friendly camaraderie, and plenty of refreshments were had by all. |
The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall is Coming to El Campo Texas, July 16-20, 2015
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The Vietnam Veterans Traveling Wall will be coming to El Campo Texas, July 16-20, 2015. VVA Chapter #1069 and its membership, will be participating in the 5-day long event. Several special events and ceremonies are being planned for the entire Saturday, July 18, which has been designated by event planners as Vietnam Veterans Day. Click on link below for more information regarding the 5-day event, including a complete schedule of events and details of the special Memorial Crosses Ceremony that will be presented by the VVA Chapter #1069 membership on the morning (10:00 AM) of Saturday, July 18th. |
2014 Christmas Party
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VVA Chapter #1069 held its 3rd annual Christmas party on Wednesday,
December 10th, 2014. The party was held in the banquet room of Mikeska's BBQ, located in El Campo, Texas, just
off Hwy 59. There were 90+ total attendees, which included Chapter members, their spouses and guests.
Even Santa Clause showed up as can be seen in photo at left.
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2014 Christmas Parade Float
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VVA Chapter 1069 participated in the El Campo Christmas parade, held on Thursday, December 4th, 2014. This was the 2nd year that our chapter participated in the Christmas parade. Thursday was a pleasant overcast day in El Campo, with temperatures in the 70s. All of which resulted in thousands of parade well-wishers lining the entire parade route. Please click on the link below to see a detailed report of the parade, including pictures of the float preparation and pictures taken during the parade. |
VVA Chapter 1069 is sponsoring our annual fundraiser raffle event for 2015. The official drawing will be held on March 11, 2015, during our monthly Chapter meeting. Many thousands of dollars of prizes are being raffled off. See the complete list of all 14 items below. All 100% of the proceeds will stay with Chapter 1069 to be used to fund future chapter projects. Raffle ticket prices/donations are $10 each. For raffle ticket purchase information or any questions regarding the raffle items, please contact James Kulcak, Raffle Chairman (979-543-0025), or Leonard Sternadel, Chapter President (979-543-1122), or any VVA Chapter 1069 member. Good Luck!
You need not be present to win!
2015 Fundraiser Raffle Items:
2014 Kayak Races
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VVA Chapter #1069 held its 1st annual "Great Kayak Races" at the Sternadel pond
on Saturday, September 13th, 2014. We had a total attendance of 25 members and spouses. Click on link below for a
complete report of the event, including pictures.
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2014 Fishing Party
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VVA Chapter #1069 held its annual "Catch-Clean-Fry & Eat" Catfish Fishing party
at the Sternadel pond on Saturday, May 17th, 2014. We had a total attendance of 45+ members, spouses & guests.
By the late afternoon, we had a total of 59 catfish in the tub! Click on link below for a complete report of the
event including pictures.
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2013 Christmas Party
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VVA Chapter #1069 held its 2nd annual Christmas party & monthly meeting on Wednesday,
December 11th, 2013. The party was held in the banquet room of Mikeska's BBQ, located in El Campo, Texas, just
off Hwy 59. There were 78 total attendees, which included Chapter members, their spouses and guests. Good food,
friendly camaraderie, and plenty of refreshments were had by all. Click on the link below for a full party
& meeting report, along with lots of party photos.
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2013 Christmas Parade Float
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VVA Chapter 1069 participated in the El Campo Christmas parade, held on Thursday, December 5th, 2013. Several Chapter members worked on the float preparation. A total of 13 Chapter members attended and rode the float in the parade. Please click on the link below to see a detailed report of the parade, including pictures of the float preparation and pictures taken during the parade. |
VVA Chapter 1069 is sponsoring our annual fundraiser raffle event for 2013. The official drawing will be held on January 8, 2014, during our monthly Chapter meeting. Over $6500 worth of prizes are being raffled off. See the complete list of all 22 items below. All 100% of the proceeds will stay with Chapter 1069 to be used to fund future chapter projects. Raffle ticket prices/donations are $10 each. For raffle ticket purchase information or any questions regarding the raffle items, please contact James Kulcak, Raffle Chairman (979-543-0025), or Leonard Sternadel, Chapter President (979-543-1122), or any VVA Chapter 1069 member. Good Luck!
You need not be present to win!
2013 Fundraiser Raffle Items:
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VVA Chapter 1069 will be hosting a Turkey Shoot Benefit at Taiton Community Center on Saturday, Sept 14, 2013. Taiton Community Center is located approximately 9 miles Northwest of El Campo on Hwy 71. The event will start at 1:00 PM. There will be 30 rounds of shooting. The winner of each round will win a $25 gift certificate to Novak's Meat Market (located in El Campo, Tx). Hot Dogs with trimmings, soft drinks and bottled water will be available on the day of the event. For more information, contact David Juranek at: (614) 270-0122. See flyer below. |
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On Saturday, July 27th, members & wives of VVA Chapter 1069 gathered at a local resident's home for a fishing and fish-fry party. A total of 25 attended the event. It was a chance for our VVA members & their wives to get together for some good old 'stand-down' time. Fortunately, the fish were biting and so there was plenty of fried fried fish to go around when it came time to eat. Many thanks to all those who attended the event, brought deserts, and a special big thanks to those guys who helped with the fish (54 total) cleaning. Although it was a pretty hot day, we did get a nice rain shower mid afternoon that cooled things down for the remainder of the day. In all, everyone had a great time and all agreed that we should do this type of event again. CLICK HERE to see more photos of the event |
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One year ago in July 10-16 of 2012, the Vietnam Traveling Wall came to El Campo, Texas. In July of this year 2013, All VVA Chapter 1069 members were invited to participate in a bronze plaque unveiling ceremony for the purpose of memorializing the site where the Vietnam Traveling Wall stood one year ago. The plaque is located on a plot of ground near Northside Elementary and is dedicated in honor of the El Campo area's Vietnam Veterans. About 250 folks attended the ceremony and parade, including members of the local VVA Chapter 1069, Matagorda County Cavalry motorcycle riders, the American Legion, State Rep. Phil Stephenson, El Campo Mayor Richard Young, local National Guard Armory, Patriots and Heroes Outdoors, and many area residents. Sarah Hudgins, an area 'Veterans' supporter, organized the event and also donated the plaque. The bronze plaque reads: "In honor of the men and women of the Armed Forces of the United States of America who served in the Vietnam War ... We will never forget!" Leonard Sternadel, VVA Chapter 1069 president (pictured at left), was one of the speakers. He told the crowd, "By placing this plaque here at the site of the wall, here on school district property, I hope that our students may see the plaque and ask questions about the Vietnam Wall." He then added, "In years past, I'm sure you've all heard derogatory stories about Vietnam veterans, most of which are not true. I'm thankful that's in the past and Americans are now showing an appreciation for us." |
In May of 2013, a stand-down was held at FB Helen for an afternoon of relaxation, camaraderie and good BBQ! The event was held on private property which included a 7-acre pond and camphouse. Approximately 20 members attended the event and a good time was had by all. We would like to express our gratitude to the land owner of FB Helen for the invitation and allowing our chapter members to use the lake facility for our enjoyment, and for being an all around great supporter of VVA Chapter 1069. Be sure to also thank chapter member James Kulcak for picking up the food tab for this event.
During the months of October and November of 2012, the Chapter held its first major fundraiser project. It was a raffle type event whereby tickets were sold for chances at various donated items. The fundraiser was a huge success and brought in over $9,300.00 for the chapter. The much needed money will be used for general chapter expenses and to help fund the various projects that the chapter will be involved with in the coming months.
Also, a very special thanks goes out to Chapter member, James Kulcak, for taking the lead on this major project. Not only did James organize and oversee this entire project, he also donated many of the items in the raffle. Be sure to give James a big thank-you the next time you see him, as it was this project that has given our young VVA Chapter the big monetary start-up boost that it needed. So, Thank You James, for being a BIG contributor to this Chapter and for your service to our country!
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The 1st annual December 2012 Christmas party was held at Mikeska's BBQ banquet room. There were 68 members and guests in attendance. The party was a great success. Fun activities included members bringing a photo of themselves from when they were in Vietnam. Photos were then set out on tables and members then had to view the photos and guess who the person was in each photo. The member with the most correct names received a VVA cap. |
In December of 2012, many chapter members participated in the National "Wreaths Across America" project, whereby Christmas wreaths were placed on the graves of all Vietnam veterans who were killed in the Vietnam war. This included cemeteries located in Wharton and Jackson counties. More information regarding the Wreaths Across America project can be found at the link below.
Click here for Wreaths Across America homepageIn October of 2012, many chapter members participated in "The Parade That Never Was" Weekend Warriors Day parade, held in Victoria Texas. More information regarding this special Vietnam Veterans parade can be found at the links below.
Read about 'The Parade That Never Was' in the Victoria Advocate - photos & video See page-1 photos of 'The Parade That Never Was' in the Victoria Advocate See page-2 photos of 'The Parade That Never Was' in the Victoria Advocate Read what the Beeville Veterans say about 'The Parade That Never Was'In November of 2012, a stand-down was held at FB Helen for relaxation, camaraderie and good BBQ! The event location was held on private property which included a 7-acre pond and camphouse. Approximately 30 members attended the event and a good time was had by all.
Good food, friendly camaraderie, and plenty of refreshments were had by all.
