VETERANS NEWSLETTER
1st Quarter 2016
A message from
James J.
Tedesco III
Highlights
Benefits
3
Stolen Valor
7
Jobs
9
Scholarships
10
Moving Wall
12
Tracers 5K
14
Events
16
Post Calendars
17
County
Executive
Every November
11th we come together to remember
those who serve and have served our country on Veterans Day. These brave soldiers,
sailors, airmen, Marines, Coast Guardsmen
and reservists are the reason why we enjoy
the many freedoms we have today across
the country. But our veterans should be recognized and celebrated all year long for
their many contributions and that is why
these past 12 months my Administration has
strived to help veterans by donating more
than two dozen computers to Veterans of
Foreign Wars Posts, Legion Halls and other
veterans services nonprofits across the county. We’ve also made great strides toward
Volume 36
helping veterans receive the job training, education, health care and social services they
need to lead happier, healthier lives.
My Veterans Services team – which only had
two employees in the previous Administration –
now has more than twice that number in staff
to advocate for the veterans across Bergen
County who need our help and can be reached
at 201-336-6325 should you need assistance. We have also implemented an initiative
to help homeless veterans find affordable
housing and are well on our way toward the
goal of ensuring no veterans are living on the
streets or in the need of food. And as we get
ready to start this next calendar year, we are
brainstorming and preparing to implement
even more initiatives to help our veteran population. I cannot say this enough – thank you for
your service. You are appreciated and we will
never stop trying to find ways to help return
the favor for your dedication and commitment
to public service. Have a Happy Holiday Season and a wonderful New Year.
James J. Tedesco III
County Executive
BOARD OF CHOSEN FREEHOLDERS
Dr. Joan M. Voss
Chairwoman
Steven A. Tanelli
Vice Chairman
John A. Felice
Chair Pro Tempore
Maura R. DeNicola
David L. Ganz
Thomas J. Sullivan, Jr.
Tracy Silna Zur
DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES
Jane C. Linter
Director
DIVISION OF VETERANS SERVICES
A.J. Luna
Director
Susan Krause
Editor/Secretary
One Bergen County Plaza, 2nd Floor
Hackensack, NJ 07601
(201) 336-6325  Fax (201) 336-6327
[email protected]
From the desk of the Director of Veteran Services ~ A.J. Luna
Let me begin by wishing
everyone a Happy New
Year! I hope you were able
to spend some quality time
with your loved ones during
this season. I am proud and
happy to announce that Bergen County has been leading the charge to end veteran homelessness in our county
for 2015. We are very
fortunate to have strategic
partners in place to quickly
address this issue. Our partners include: the Bergen
County Shelter, Catholic
Charities, Soldier On,
Community Hope, and North
Action Hudson Community.
The Division established an
aggressive outreach strategy
which included hiring a veteran part-time to work in the
Shelter to identify all the residents who are veterans. We
worked closely with the Bergen County Shelter to coordinate services for whatever the
veterans need. Many of your
“Tracers” donations have been
able help our veterans get
back on their feet and get
them into better housing situations. We have housed over
70 veterans and their families.
I know you can all agree that
we can always improve.
There will be more affordable
housing units coming in 2016 in
the municipalities of Paramus,
United We Stand
SEPTEMBER 11, 2001
Emerson, and Northvale.
Please look for the announcements in local newspapers or
www.socialserve.com. If you
know a veteran who needs
this, please have them call the
Office at 201-336-6325.
We are striving to help as
many veterans as we can by
assisting them.
TRANSPORTATION FOR VETERANS
Bergen County
Division of Community Transportation
201-368-5955
Call to learn more about the various
transportation options available to our veterans.
Flag Distribution
Phone: 201-336-6328
Each year, the Division of Veterans Services
provides various veterans groups and Boy Scout
Troops with United States flags for Memorial
Day placement on the graves of war veterans
buried in Bergen County cemeteries.
COMING SOON: THE MOVING WALL COMES TO BERGEN
COUNTY—MAY 19-23, 2016
"The Moving Wall" is the half-size replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, DC and has been touring the country for thirty plus
years. When John Devitt attended the 1982 dedication in Washington, he
felt the positive power of "The Wall." He vowed to share that experience
with those who did not have the opportunity to go to Washington. John,
Norris Shears, Gerry Haver, and other Vietnam veteran volunteers built
The Moving Wall. It went on display for the first time in Tyler, Texas in
October of 1984. Two structures of The Moving Wall now travel the USA
from April through November, spending about a week at each site. See
more inside on page 12 about how you can be part of this event or call
Fred Hayo, Bergen County Veterans Services, 201-336-6330.
TRACERS WANTS TO END HOMELESSNESS FOR VETERANS IN BERGEN COUNTY BY HELPING
HOMELESS VETERANS AND VETERANS IN DANGER OF BECOMING HOMELESS, AND GIVING
A HAND TO HOMELESS VETS, NOT A HAND-OUT. WORKING TOGETHER, WE CAN DO IT.
Bergen County Military Service Medal
Bergen County offers a service medal to all
county residents, currently living or who died in
the county, who have been honorably discharged
from the U.S. military. The Bergen County
Military Service Medal will also be awarded
posthumously to county residents.
Hire a Vet Program
Phone: 201-336-6329
The division maintains a list of
available employment opportunities, and
regularly calls on industry and
organizations seeking employment
opportunities for veterans. Staff
attempts to match the veteran
with employer needs.
Bergen County Clerk's Office
The Honorable John S. Hogan ~ Bergen County Clerk
To obtain a Veteran's Honorary
Service card, Veterans must fill
out an application, and present a
copy of their Separation Papers
from Active Duty (DD-214
Form) or the WSAGO 53-55,
NAVPERS 553 or NAVMC 790,
along with valid photo identification. Veterans can also verify
with our office if their service
records are already on file with
the county. There is no charge
for filing military service records
or for the issuance of the card.
Copies of Honorable Discharges
form DD-214 that have been
filed with the Bergen County
Clerk are available upon request
to Veterans of their immediate
family. Veterans who are residents of Bergen County may
apply for a Veterans Peddler License. There is no fee, but you
need a copy of your DD-214. A
Veteran Peddlers License is issued by the County Clerk's office
in the county where the Veteran
currently resides. The license
allows the holder to hawk or sell
goods or merchandise within the
State of New Jersey without the
need to apply for any additional
peddler’s license. For more information contact the Bergen
County Clerk’s Office at 201336-7000 or via e-mail:
[email protected].
BERGEN COUNTY VETERANS NEWSLETTER  1st QUARTER 2016
WHAT VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES SHOULD
KNOW WHEN APPLYING FOR VA PENSION BENEFITS
WHAT ARE PENSION BENEFITS?
Pension is a needs-based benefit paid to a wartime Veteran and his/her survivor(s). A Veteran
may generally be eligible if he/she:





was discharged from service under other than dishonorable conditions, AND
served 90 days or more of active military, naval or air service with at least 1 day during a
period of war*, AND
his/her countable income is below the maximum annual pension rate, AND
meets the net worth limitations, AND
is age 65 or older, OR is shown by evidence to have a permanent and total non-serviceconnected disability, OR is a patient in a nursing home, OR is receiving Social Security
disability benefits.
*Veterans who entered active duty after September 7, 1980, must also have served at least 24
months of active duty service. If the total length of service is less than 24 months, the Veteran
must have completed his/her entire tour of active duty.
Aid and Attendance (A&A) is an increased monthly pension amount paid to a Veteran or
surviving spouse. You may be eligible for the increased A&A amount if:

You are eligible for basic pension benefits
AND


You require the aid of another person in order to perform activities of daily living, such
as bathing, feeding, dressing, toileting, adjusting prosthetic devices, or protecting
yourself from the hazards of your daily environment, OR
You are bedridden, in that your disability or disabilities require that you remain in bed
apart from any prescribed course of convalescence or treatment, OR
Note: Disabilities determined by VA to be related to your military service can lead to monthly non-taxable
compensation, enrollment in the VA health care system, a 10-point hiring preference for federal employment and other
important benefits. Ask your VA representative or Veterans Service Organization representative about Disability
Compensation, Pension, Health Care, Caregiver Program, Career Services, Educational Assistance, Home Loan
Guaranty, Insurance and/or Dependents and Survivors’ Benefits.
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4 BERGEN COUNTY VETERANS NEWSLETTER  1st QUARTER 2016


You are a patient in a nursing home due to mental or physical incapacity, OR
You have corrected visual acuity of 5/200 or less, in both eyes, or concentric contraction
of the visual field to 5 degrees or less.
Housebound is an increased monthly pension amount paid to a Veteran or surviving spouse who
is substantially confined to his or her home because of permanent disability. You may be eligible
if:



You are eligible for basic pension benefits AND
You have a single permanent disability evaluated as 100-percent disabling AND, due to a
disability or disabilities, you are permanently and substantially confined to your
immediate premises, OR
You have a single permanent disability evaluated as 100-percent disabling AND another
disability or disabilities, independently evaluated as 60-percent or more disabling.
What do I need to know about the organizations that are offering assistance with claims for
pension benefits?
The U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging (Committee) found that some organizations are
misrepresenting themselves while helping Veterans and survivors apply for VA pension.



In a June 2012 hearing, the Committee addressed concerns that some organizations are
marketing financial products and services to enable claimants whose assets exceed the
VA pension program’s financial eligibility thresholds to qualify for VA pension benefits.
The Committee also learned these organizations may charge substantial fees for products
and services that may not always be in claimants’ best long-term interests.
You can access a video of the hearing on the Committee’s website.
The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) published a report, Veterans’ Pension
Benefits: Improvements Needed to Ensure Only Qualified Veterans and Survivors Receive
Benefits, GAO-12-540. GAO found that:





There are over 200 organizations that market financial and estate-planning services to
help pension claimants with excess assets meet financial eligibility requirements for
pension benefits.
These organizations consist primarily of financial planners and attorneys who offer
products such as annuities and trusts.
Some products and services provided, such as annuities, may not be suitable for elderly
Veterans because they may not have access to all their funds for their care within their
expected lifetime without facing high withdrawal fees.
These products and services may result in ineligibility for Medicaid for a period of time.
Some organizations charged fees, ranging from a few hundred dollars for benefits
counseling to $10,000 for establishment of a trust.
Who can help me file a claim for VA pension, including pension at the aid and attendance
or housebound rates?
BERGEN COUNTY VETERANS NEWSLETTER  1st QUARTER 2016
An individual generally must first be accredited by VA to assist a claimant in the preparation,
presentation, and prosecution of a claim for VA benefits—even without charge. VA accredits
three types of individuals for this purpose:



Representatives of VA-recognized Veterans service organizations
Independent claims agents
Private Attorneys
• A searchable list of accredited representatives, agents, and attorneys is available at the VA
Office of the General Counsel website: www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/index.asp
• VA accreditation, which is for the sole and limited purpose of preparing, presenting, and
prosecuting claims before VA, is necessary to ensure that claimants for VA benefits have
responsible, qualified representation.
• VA regulations allow a one-time exception to this general rule, which allows VA to authorize a
person to prepare, present, and prosecute one claim without accreditation. The assistance must be
without cost to the claimant, is subject to the laws governing representation, and may not be used
to evade the accreditation requirements.
• Preparation and presentation of a VA claim includes, among other things, gathering the
information necessary to file a claim for benefits, completing claim applications, submitting claim
information to VA, and communicating with VA on behalf of a claimant.
• A VA-accredited attorney or claims agent, who is also a financial planner, may assist a claimant
with a claim for A&A. However, financial planners may not use their VA accreditation for the
purpose of promoting or selling financial products.
• If VA determines that an accredited attorney or agent is using VA accreditation for an improper
purpose, VA may suspend or cancel the individual’s accreditation.
Can an accredited attorney or claims agent, who is also a financial planner, charge a fee for
preparing a claim for A&A?
No. An accredited attorney or claims agent may generally charge claimants a fee only after an
agency of original jurisdiction (e.g., a VA regional office) has issued a decision on a claim, a
notice of disagreement has been filed, and the attorney or agent has filed a power of attorney and
a fee agreement with VA.
An exception applies when an accredited attorney or claims agent receives a fee or salary from a
disinterested third party. A third party is considered disinterested only if the entity or individual
would not benefit financially from the successful outcome of the claim.
We note that some individuals charge a pre-filing “consultation” fee to inform a Veteran or
survivor about VA benefits that may be available to them. In certain states, a license to practice
law may be required to provide and charge a fee for such “consultations,” which may be
considered giving legal advice.
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6 BERGEN COUNTY VETERANS NEWSLETTER  1st QUARTER 2016
• Such “consultation” fees are unlawful if they are charged after a Veteran or survivor becomes a
VA claimant by expressing to the attorney or agent an intent to file a claim for VA benefits.
• A “consultation” fee may not be tied to the outcome of a claim filed with VA if the attorney or
agent provides any claims assistance–that is, an attorney or agent cannot agree to refund the fee
if, after the attorney or agent assists with a VA claim, VA ultimately denies the claim. Such a fee
would amount to an unlawful contingency fee or advance payment for assistance with an
application for VA benefits.
• VA-recognized Veterans service organizations, including their accredited representatives, are
not permitted to receive fees for their services in connection with a VA claim in any instance.
• If VA determines that an accredited attorney or agent is improperly charging a fee for preparing,
presenting, or prosecuting a claim prior to the filing of a notice of disagreement, VA may suspend
or cancel the individual’s accreditation.
Is it permissible to offer a guarantee that a claimant will be awarded A&A or that the
processing of a claim will be expedited?
No. Such promises are patently misleading because VA is ultimately the adjudicator of claims for
VA benefits.
If VA determines that an accredited attorney or agent has misled or deceived a claimant regarding
benefits or other rights under programs administered by VA, VA may suspend or cancel the
individual’s accreditation.
For more information, call Toll-Free 1-800-827-1000 or visit www.va.gov .
Local: Veterans Service Office
Bergen/Passaic (Veterans Service Officer)
125 State Street, Suite #109
Hackensack, NJ 07601-5435
(201) 996-8050 / 8051  Fax: (201) 996-8009
Local: VA Hackensack Clinic, Medical Clinic
385 Prospect Ave.  Hackensack, NJ 07601
Phone: (201) 342-4536
Features
• Primary care services for veterans in the New Jersey and surrounding areas.
• Behavioral Health services including individual, group and family counseling.
• Handicapped Accessible: full and easy access for all veterans.
• Personal Care: Highly qualified primary care providers, specialty care referrals to the East
Orange and Lyons Campuses.
• Laboratory: Blood drawing services available.
• Prescriptions: Routine prescriptions processed through the mail or My HealtheVet.
BERGEN COUNTY VETERANS NEWSLETTER  1st QUARTER 2016
Standard Services
All appointments are scheduled prior to visit.
• Primary Care
• Nutrition
• Social Work
• Mental Health
Specialty Clinics
Clinics meet on specific days and appointments are scheduled prior to visit.
• Teleretinal (Diabetic Eye Screening)
• Women's Health
Visit www.newjersey.va.gov/locations/Hackensack.asp for more information.
'NEW JERSEY STOLEN VALOR ACT' NOW LAW
Legislation sponsored by the New Jersey
General Assembly – Vince Mazzeo, Bob
Andrzejczak, Joseph Lagana, Raj Mukherji,
Cleopatra Tucker, and Carmelo G. Garcia –
to crack down on individuals who demean
members of the U.S. Armed Forces by
falsely impersonating veterans or active
duty military in order to try and receive
various perks has been signed into law.
The law (A-4104) was inspired by recent reports of a growing trend in which veterans and activeduty troops record people they believe are faking military service, often times to try and receive
various perks, and post the results on social media. In one of the most recent videos, which has
received nearly five million hits on YouTube, a veteran at the Oxford Valley Mall in
Pennsylvania questions a man in army fatigues who claims to have served in Afghanistan and
Iraq as a member of the elite Army Rangers, but clearly appears unfamiliar with proper military
protocol.
“Anyone who attempts to obtain any financial benefit or perks by knowingly lying about their
military or veteran status really stoops to a new low,” said Mazzeo (Atlantic). “These 2 examples
of Stolen Valor demean those who have served in the military and those who have sacrificed and
lost their lives in defense of our nation. It is my hope that this legislation and its harsh penalties
will help dissuade anyone from continuing this heinous practice.”
The law, designated the “New Jersey Stolen Valor Act,” cracks down on these imposters by
making it a crime of the third degree, with a mandatory minimum fine of $1,000, to knowingly
misrepresent oneself as a veteran or member of the military for the purpose of obtaining money,
property or another benefit by wearing the uniform or any medal or insignia authorized for use by
the members or veterans of the United Armed Forces or the organized militia.
“Every soldier earns each and every stripe or promotion with hard work and dedication to their
country,” said Andrzejczak (Cape May/Atlantic/Cumberland). “To impersonate a veteran and
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8 BERGEN COUNTY VETERANS NEWSLETTER  1st QUARTER 2016
benefit from the service and sacrifice of real military men and woman is disgraceful. It deserves
punishment to the fullest extent of the law.”
Currently, state law makes it a crime of the fourth degree to knowingly present oneself as a
veteran or a member of the military with the intent to deceive, but not necessarily for the purpose
of obtaining any kind of benefit, by wearing a military uniform or medal or insignia.
“The invaluable experience and knowledge of military men and women cannot be easily
duplicated,” said Lagana (Bergen/Passaic). “There should be a penalty those who try to
impersonate them and take advantage of military perks and benefits offered in New Jersey.”
“Service men and women put their lives on the line in the most dangerous of situations to protect
our freedoms here and abroad,” said Mukherji (Hudson). “Impersonation of a soldier is nothing to
take lightly. Men and women have earned their status as members of the U.S. Armed Force and
must be given the respect and honor they deserve for their service.”
Additionally, the law will make false statements regarding oneself as a recipient of any
decoration or medal of the U.S. Armed Forces or organized militia for the purpose of obtaining
money, property or another benefit a crime of the third degree, with a mandatory minimum fine
of $1,000.
State law does not presently prohibit false statements about military or veteran status.
Federal law prohibits both the unauthorized wearing of a military uniform or any distinctive part
thereof and false statements as to receipt of military decorations or medals for the purpose of
obtaining money, property, or some other tangible benefit.
“Impersonating a military officer in order to take advantage of special benefits is a despicable act
and it should be a crime in New Jersey,” said Tucker (Essex), chair of the Assembly Military and
Veterans’ Affairs Committee.
“Individuals who impersonate the military are mocking the sacrifices made by real service men
and women,” said Garcia (Hudson). “This law makes it clear that this behavior will not be
tolerated in New Jersey.”
Any fines collected under the law will be dedicated to the Military Dependents Scholarship Fund,
established by this recently-signed law (A-2849). The fund will provide college scholarships to
the spouses and children of those killed, missing in action or disabled in the Post 9/11 Operation
Noble Eagle, Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, or Operation New Dawn.
(Source: Paul Nichols, www.bergendispatch.com)
BERGEN COUNTY VETERANS NEWSLETTER  1st QUARTER 2016
HIRING AMERICA TV SHOW HITS RECORD NUMBER OF
STATIONS IN SYNDICATION
NEARLY 200 ACROSS THE NATION CARRY THE
WEEKLY PROGRAM HELPING
VETERANS FIND WORK
Hiring America—the nation’s only television program devoted to helping veterans leaving the
military find good jobs—is now being carried by 195 TV stations nationwide … the largest
number in its two-year history. And it’s able to do it via the production support of the VFW. And
it continues to gain momentum.
“We’re really proud to be providing vital information and advice on employment, careers, new
job opportunities, interviewing techniques and tips to the men and women of the armed forces,”
said Bill Deutch, executive producer and creator. “And our audience keeps growing as vets, their
families, friends, well-wishers and potential employers follow the show,” he lamented. “But we
couldn’t do it without the help of friends like the VFW.”
With major cuts in U.S. military having been in place over the past few years—and with the
downsizing of military personnel—literally thousands of career veterans have been asked to make
the transition from the armed services to civilian life. And there are more to come.
They will be looking to parlay their military experience into civilian jobs—and the conversion
more often than not isn’t easy. But there is something very different out there via Hiring
America—and it’s available to just about all of them.
“The VFW is once again delighted to support Hiring America in its mission
of helping our veterans prepare for and find good jobs,” related Adjutant
General John E. Hamilton. “And it’s wonderful to see the increased
interest among television outlets—and viewers—across the nation in
recognizing the practical needs of our military personnel as they prepare
for life outside the military. We believe the show—and its content—reflect
the strengths and goals of our organization.”
Again hosted by television news reporter Gigi Stone—whose credentials
include Good Morning America and ABC News—the 30-minute programs cover a wide spectrum
of guests—those with expertise and knowledge in career counseling and guidance; CEOs and
other business executives with real world experience and success stories; and former veterans and
military personnel in the news.
The show is the brainchild of entrepreneur Bill Deutch who also serves as executive producer. He
has committed the last five years of his life to bringing the concept from a dream to reality. “I
can’t think of any more worthwhile endeavor than supporting and helping the men and women of
our military,” he said. “I’m also very grateful to the VFW and the rest of our sponsors for making
a second season of Hiring America possible.”
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10 BERGEN COUNTY VETERANS NEWSLETTER  1st QUARTER 2016
“At the end of the day,” Deutch lamented, “if we help make the transition easier for just one
veteran—make it possible for him or her to succeed in civilian life—Hiring America will have
done its job.”
About Hiring America
Hiring America is the first employment TV program for transitioning veterans and their families.
Our mission is to help veterans and members of the Armed Forces connect with companies that
have jobs available and organizations that support the military community.
Each participating company and organization is carefully selected to participate on the show.
Hiring America looks to companies with strong veteran hiring initiatives and organizations whose
mission it is to provide services that facilitate the transition process. Our goal on each episode is
for the viewer to have the ability to access companies and entities that are actively hiring veterans
today. For industries that are regionally based such as utilities, we give viewers the ability to learn
about how to connect these industries in their own community.
Hiring America is your advocate in the world of veteran employment. For more information
about the show, please contact us.
About the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)
The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. is a non-profit veterans service organization comprised
of eligible veterans and military service members from the active, Guard and Reserve forces.
Founded in 1899 and chartered by Congress in 1936, the VFW is the nation’s largest organization
of war veterans and its oldest major veterans organization. There are more than 1.7 million VFW
and Auxiliary members located in 6,800 Posts worldwide. The VFW and its Auxiliaries are
dedicated to veterans service, legislative advocacy, and military and community service
programs. For more information or to join, visit www.vfw.org.
(Source: www.vfw.org)
BCNJAL NEWS: AMERICAN LEGION SCHOLARSHIP
Bergen County American Legion is pleased to announce the
following scholarship applications and requirements are available:
Oratorical Contest: http://bcnjal.org/oratorical-scholarship-program/
For the below scholarships go to: http://bcnjal.org/scholarships/
(see note) 1.2016 Eagle Scout Scholarship
Bergen County American Legion Gene Howell/Don Holmes
Scholarship (must be a Bergen County Resident or a relative of a
Bergen County Legion Family member).
George Axt Nursing Scholarship
NJVVM 2016 Scholarship Application (New Jersey Viet Nam Memorial)
BERGEN COUNTY VETERANS NEWSLETTER  1st QUARTER 2016
NJ Scholarship Application (must be a natural or adopted dependent of a Legion Member)
1.Includes John Casey Scholarship for Combat Wounded Veterans)
Rochelle Park Post 170 Application (must be a Rochelle Park resident or a relative of a
Rochelle Park Post 170 family member).
For info on Boys State and for an application to apply as a delegate (for schools where there is no
post contact): http://bcnjal.org/boys-state
For info on Girls State: http://bcnjal.org/girls-state
To find a local post’s contact info go to: http://bcnjal.org/list-of-bergen-county-posts
For additional information or questions e-mail [email protected].
For God and Country
We Continue to Serve:
Bob Salvini
Commander
Note: As additional scholarships become available they will be added to this folder, so check
back.
(Source: http://bcnjal.org/scholarship-press-release)
HOLIDAYS, OBSERVANCES, AND EVENTS
January
January 1: New Year’s Day
January 18: Martin Luther King’s Birthday – National Holiday
February
February 2: Groundhog Day
February 4: USO Birthday
February 14: Valentine’s Day
February 15: President’s Day /Washington’s Birthday – National Holiday
February 19: Coast Guard Reserves Birthday
March
March 3: Navy Reserves Birthday
March 4: Mardi Gras
March 13: Daylight Saving Time
March 15: American Legion’s Birthday
March 17: St. Patrick’s Day
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12 BERGEN COUNTY VETERANS NEWSLETTER  1st QUARTER 2016
VISITOR GUIDES NEEDED FOR THE MOVING WALL AT
OVERPECK PARK - MAY 19-23, 2016
The Division of Veterans
Services is sponsoring The
Moving Wall visit to Bergen
County to (1) Help bring
healing to veterans and
families and friends of those
who died or are missing in
Vietnam, especially those who may not have the opportunity to see the Vietnam Veterans Memorial
in Washington DC. The intention is to help close old wounds, not to open them. And, (2) to educate
the community about the war in Vietnam and its impact on our nation and our veterans.
Visitor Guides at The Moving Wall are unpaid volunteers. Their jobs include:
• Help make visits more personal, meaningful, and comfortable
• Provide comfort and emotional support to visitors
• Help visitors find names by using the directories or computer
• Help visitors find names on The Moving Wall
• Make name rubbings or help visitors make name rubbings
• Answer questions about The Moving Wall or the Wall in DC
• Answer questions about the schedule of events
• Help maintain a quiet, solemn, mood near The Moving Wall
• Help keep the area clean
Please indicate on the form in the back of this newsletter, the days and hours you would like to
work. You may fax your form to (201) 336-3627 or e-mail it to [email protected].
Please be sure to complete all areas. We plan to call everyone, to confirm their times and give last
minute details. Feel free to also come at additional times, to perform Visitor Guide duties, or just
visit. However, we do not want anyone to volunteer for such long hours that they endanger their
health or safety.
Visitor Guides will wear yellow hats while on duty, similar to National Park Service Volunteers at
the Wall in DC. If we can acquire enough hats, each volunteer will have their own. If not, please
turn in the hat upon completion of your “tour” each day. You may bring service ribbons, patches,
pins, or buttons to add personality to your hat. Visitor Guides will also be given a bright yellow
nametag with “Visitor Guide” and your name.
Alcoholic beverages and illegal drugs are not allowed at the site.
Please contact Fred Hayo at the Bergen County Division of Veterans Services at (201) 336-6330
or for more information about how you and your organization can be part of this exciting event.
More details to follow. Please visit www.themovingwall.org to learn more.
BERGEN COUNTY VETERANS NEWSLETTER  1st QUARTER 2016
BERGEN COUNTY HOSTS FIRST ANNUAL
TRACERS 5K RUN AT OVERPECK PARK
On October 25, 2015, the Bergen County Division of
Veterans Services hosted the first annual Tracers 5K run at
Overpeck Park in Ridgefield Park, NJ. Bergen County
Executive James J. Tedesco III kicked off the inaugural
event thanking the volunteers and runners for their support of
the program to end veterans’ homelessness.
A.J. Luna, Director of the County’s Veterans Services,
reminded the crowd that Bergen County is home to the
largest population of veterans in New Jersey and it is the
goal of the county to end homelessness among our veterans
by year end.
County Executive Tedesco
Freeholder Maura DeNicola was on hand to support the cause. Her son, Philip, is a graduate of
the U.S. Naval Academy, and is currently serving as an F-18 pilot.
About Tracers
The goal of Tracers is to end homelessness for veterans in Bergen County by helping homeless
veterans and veterans in danger of becoming homeless, and giving a hand to homeless vets, not a
hand-out. .
Assisting homeless veterans is a top priority for the Bergen County Division of Veterans Services
and its Advisory Board. In 1993, the division addressed this priority by launching Tracers, an allvolunteer group consisting of resident veterans.
The primary mission of volunteers is to locate homeless veterans and link them to communitybased and VA sponsored programs and benefits. Tracers finds veterans shelter and jobs which
provide adequate income.
Tracers works with local veteran groups and other nonprofit organizations, public officials,
business leaders, homeless and formerly homeless veterans.
The program's name, Tracers, was derived from the glow-in-the-dark bullets recognized by U.S.
Military personnel. The veterans who volunteer for Tracers are guiding lights who offer
nontraditional outreach efforts to homeless veterans.
The mission of Tracers is to help every homeless veteran in Bergen County reach selfsufficiency. In addition, Tracers has established a transitional home in the city of Garfield with
support services for eight homeless veterans. The home opened in 2003.
While the exact number of homeless veterans in Bergen County is unknown, the number is
estimated at nearly one hundred. Some veterans in Bergen are without a residence, but they are
not really homeless - the United States is their home. In 1994, Tracers was recognized by Rutgers
University for its innovation and received the coveted New Jersey State and Local Award. In
April 1996, the Volunteer Center of Bergen County, Inc. honored Tracers as a finalist in the adult
volunteer category.
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14 BERGEN COUNTY VETERANS NEWSLETTER  1st QUARTER 2016
Donations to the Tracers program are used to supply bus tickets to jobs, assist in preparing the
veteran for employment, and to fill-in gaps in the service delivery system. Since our inception,
more than $100,000 in bus tickets has been given to homeless vets.
There's no time like the present ... send a check or call (201) 336-6325. Checks can be made
payable to:
County of Bergen - Tracers
Bergen County Division of Veterans Services
One Bergen County Plaza, 2nd Floor
Hackensack, NJ 07601
You can also help by donating $25 - $50 gift certificates redeemable in Hackensack stores such as
Sears, Walmart, Target, Shop Rite, and CVS Pharmacy.
Tracers is also in need of new items such as carrying bags, sweatshirts (large and extra-large)
which may be dropped off weekdays between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Parking is
available and pickup can be arranged for individual cartons weighing less than 25 lbs.
Tracers assures that every penny donated is spent on items and services which help improve the
lives of former members of the United States Military and their families who are now homeless.
(Source: www.bergendispatch.com)
Also you may visit www.fios1news.com/newjersey/leonia-5k-run-benefitsveterans#.Vi4Iwaq9LCR to see Verizon FIOS television coverage of the event.
FITTING TRIBUTE TO GOLD STAR MOTHERS
Gold Star Mother's Day organizers offer thanks
To the Editor of The Ridgewood News:
On Sunday, Sept. 27, 2015, for our fifth year many gathered at Van Neste Park in Ridgewood to
commemorate Gold Star Mother's Day. Gold Star families are the families of our military
servicemen and women killed in the line of duty. The last Sunday in September has been reserved
to honor our Gold Star Mothers by U.S. Presidential proclamation started in 1936. We honor their
sacrifice and stand with them on this solemn
day and every day throughout the year.
A moving ceremony and lighting of
luminaries highlighted the event at which we
were honored to have in attendance Ms.
Linda Christian, the Gold Star Mother of
SSGT Eric Christian of Ramsey (USMC,
Afghanistan - killed May 4, 2013).
BERGEN COUNTY VETERANS NEWSLETTER  1st QUARTER 2016
The American Legion Post 53 and the Ridgewood Gold Star Mother's Day Committee extend our
heartfelt thanks to the Village Council, the Fire Department, Police Department, Signal
Department, Ridgewood Boys and Girl Scouts, Ridgewood Public Schools, Ridgewood High
School Project Interact, Elks Club Army of Hope, Blue Star Mothers North New Jersey Chapter
3, numerous other participants, and the residents of our village, as well as many others in
attendance, for their support to again make this commemorative occasion a resounding success.
For those who did not get a chance to attend this year, we invite you to join us next year on
Sunday, Sept. 25, 2016, and be part of this notable tribute to Gold Star Mothers.
Maria Bombace, Gold Star Mother's Day Committee
Bob Paoli, Commander, American Legion Post 53
(Source: www.northjersey.com)
THANKS TO TRACERS BENEFACTORS
(10/15/2015 - 11/1/2015)
Gold ($500 and above):
 American Legion Post 128, Teaneck
 Hackensack Policeman’s Benevolent Association Local 9
 Alfred Sanzari Enterprises
Bronze ($100 - $249):
 New Jersey Policemen’s Benevolent Association Local 67, Fair Lawn
 Joann & David Boesch
 Catherine & John Vervoort Jr.
 Horizon Foundation of New Jersey
Boosters (Under or up to $99):
 Mr. & Mrs. Glen Spinella
 Mary Webster & James Metalios
 Louise & Robert Haertel
 Waldwick Memorial VFW Post 1049
 Mary Parnow
15
16 BERGEN COUNTY VETERANS NEWSLETTER  1st QUARTER 2016
EVENTS IN 2016
Every Tuesday: Wood-Ridge VFW Post 3616 & Post Ladies Auxiliary will meet 9:30 am –
11:00 am at Paramus Veterans Home every Tuesday for card playing and socializing with the
veterans that reside the home.
1st Monday: (1/4, 2/1, 3/7)
Paramus VFW Post 6699 will have its monthly bus trip to Atlantic City. The bus will leave from
6 East Winslow Place, Paramus, at 7:45 am. The cost is $30. This trip is open to all. You do not
have to be a post member or a resident of Paramus to attend. There is ample onsite parking
available. The cost is $30. If you have questions or would like to reserve a seat please call Paul
Thompson at 201-320-3210.
2nd Monday: (1/11, 2/8, 3/14)
Catholic War Veterans of Bergen County Bingo at the Paramus Veterans Home (7-8 pm).
4th Monday: (1/25, 2/22, 3/28)
New Milford-Teaneck JWV Post 498 sponsors bingo at the Paramus Veterans Home
(7-8 pm). For more information call Stephen at 201-692-1228.
MOPH 522 Paramus at the Paramus Veterans Home (7:30 pm).
3rd Tuesday: (1/19, 2/16, 3/15)
Rutherford American Legion Post 109 Ward Party East Orange (6 pm).
4th Tuesday: (1/26, 2/23, 3/22)
East District Elks Bingo at the Paramus Veterans Home (7 pm).
3rd Wednesday: (1/20, 2/17, 3/16)
Fairlawn Jewish War Veterans Post 651 bingo at the Paramus Veterans Home (7-8 pm).
1st Thursday: (1/7, 2/4, 3/3)
VVA Chapter 800 (Bergen County) Party at Lyons VAMC (6 pm).
3rd Sunday: (1/17, 2/21, 3/20)
Elmwood Park American Legion Post 147 Third Sunday Pancake Breakfast (8-11:30 am),
1 Legion Place, Elmwood Park. Contact (201) 796-9717.
VETERANS POSTS MEETING SCHEDULE
JANUARY 2016
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1 – Fair Lawn American
Legion SAL 171
2
4 – American Legion
Alexander Stover Post 37
– Waldwick American
Legion Post 57 Walter
Nightengale Ladies
Auxiliary Unit
– Cliffside Park
American Legion Post
126
– Teaneck VFW Post
1429
11 – Rutherford
American Legion Post
109
SAL Squadron 128
5 – Rutherford American
Legion Post 109
Auxiliary Unit
– Lyndhurst American
Legion Post 139
– Fort Lee Post 2342
– Bogota VFW Post 5561
– Bergenfield VFW Post
6467 Ladies Auxiliary
6 – Rochelle Park
American Legion Riders
170
– South Hackensack
Anthony LoPresti VFW
Post 8005
7 – Rochelle Park
American Legion Post
170
– Marine Corps League
Gooney Bird Detachment
434
– Elks Club Lodge 2167
– Elks Club Lodge 2475
Palisades Park/Fort Lee
Lodge
8 – Fair Lawn American
Legion Post 171
Auxiliary
– Fair Lawn American
Legion Post 171
9 – Northern Valley
Chapter 32 of the DAV
12 – Bogota VFW Ladies
Post 5561
– Bergenfield VFW Post
6467
14 – Waldwick
American Legion Post 57
Walter Nightengale
– Rochelle Park
American Legion
Auxiliary Unit 170
15
16 – Paramus VFW Post
6699
17
18 – VVA Chapter 800 Bergen County
19–DAV Bergen County
Chapter 15
– Lyndhurst American
Legion Post 139
13– Waldwick American
Legion Post 57 Walter
Nightengale American
Legion SAL Squad
– Rochelle Park
American Legion SAL
Squad 170
– Ho-Ho-Kus VFW Post
192
20 – Rutherford
American Legion SAL
109
21 – Elks Club Lodge
2167
– Elks Club Lodge 2475
Palisades Park/Fort Lee
Lodge
– Mahwah American
Legion Post 531
– North Arlington VFW
Post 4697
22
23
24
25 – DAV Chapter 49
26
27 – Oakland American
Legion Post 369
– District 2
28 – Teaneck American
Legion Post 128
– Wood-Ridge Post VFW
Post 3616
– Wood-Ridge VFW
Post 3616
- Pompton Lakes Marine
Corp Detachment 744
29
30
3– New Milford-Teaneck
JWV Post 498
– Fair Lawn Jewish War
Veterans Post 651
– Fort Lee Jewish War
Veterans Post 741
10
31
VETERANS POSTS MEETING SCHEDULE
FEBRUARY 2016
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1 – American Legion
Alexander Stover Post 37
– Waldwick American
Legion Post 57 Walter
Nightengale Ladies
Auxiliary Unit
– Cliffside Park
American Legion Post
126
– Teaneck VFW Post
1429
8 – Rutherford American
Legion Post 109
– SAL Squadron 128
2 – Rutherford American
Legion Post 109
Auxiliary Unit
– Lyndhurst American
Legion Post 139
– Fort Lee Post 2342
– Bogota VFW Post 5561
– Bergenfield VFW Post
6467 Ladies Auxiliary
3 – Rochelle Park
American Legion Riders
170
– South Hackensack
Anthony LoPresti VFW
Post 8005
4 – Rochelle Park
American Legion Post
170
– Marine Corps League
Gooney Bird Detachment
434
– Elks Club Lodge 2167
– Elks Club Lodge 2475
Palisades Park/Fort Lee
Lodge
5 – Fair Lawn American
Legion SAL 171
6
9 – Bogota VFW Ladies
Post 5561
– Bergenfield VFW Post
6467
10 – Waldwick American
Legion Post 57 Walter
Nightengale American
Legion SAL Squad
– Rochelle Park
American Legion SAL
Squad 170
– Ho-Ho-Kus VFW Post
192
11 – Waldwick American
Legion Post 57 Walter
Nightengale
– Rochelle Park
American Legion
Auxiliary Unit 170
12 – Fair Lawn American
Legion Post 171
Auxiliary
– Fair Lawn American
Legion Post 171
13 – Northern Valley
Chapter 32 of the DAV
14
15 – VVA Chapter 800 Bergen County
16 – DAV Bergen
County Chapter 15
– Lyndhurst American
Legion Post 139
17 – Rutherford
American Legion SAL
109
19
20 – Paramus VFW Post
6699
21
22 – DAV Chapter 49
23
24 – Oakland American
Legion Post 369
– District 2
18 – Elks Club Lodge
2167
– Elks Club Lodge 2475
Palisades Park/Fort Lee
Lodge
– VFW Post 4697 North
Arlington
– Mahwah American
Legion Post 531
– North Arlington VFW
Post 4697
25 – Teaneck American
Legion Post 128
– Pompton Lakes Marine
Corp League Detachment
744
– Wood-Ridge Post VFW
Post 3616
26
27
28
29
7 – New MilfordTeaneck JWV Post 498
– Fair Lawn Jewish War
Veterans Post 651
– Fort Lee Jewish War
Veterans Post 741
VETERANS POSTS MEETING SCHEDULE
MARCH 2016
Sunday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1– Rutherford American
Legion Post 109
Auxiliary Unit
– Lyndhurst American
Legion Post 139
– Fort Lee Post 2342
– Bogota VFW Post 5561
– Bergenfield VFW Post
6467 Ladies Auxiliary
2 – Rochelle Park
American Legion Riders
170
– South Hackensack
Anthony LoPresti VFW
Post 8005
3 – Rochelle Park
American Legion Post
170
– Marine Corps League
Gooney Bird Detachment
434
– Elks Club Lodge 2167
– Elks Club Lodge 2475
Palisades Park/Fort Lee
Lodge
4 – Fair Lawn American
Legion SAL 171
5
7 – American Legion
Alexander Stover Post 37
– Waldwick American
Legion Post 57 Walter
Nightengale Ladies
Auxiliary Unit
– Cliffside Park
American Legion Post
126
– Teaneck VFW Post
1429
14 – Rutherford
American Legion Post
109
SAL Squadron 128
8 – Bogota VFW Ladies
Post 5561
– Bergenfield VFW Post
6467
9 – Waldwick American
Legion Post 57 Walter
Nightengale American
Legion SAL Squad
– Rochelle Park
American Legion SAL
Squad 170
– Ho-Ho-Kus VFW Post
192
10 – Waldwick American
Legion Post 57 Walter
Nightengale
– Rochelle Park
American Legion
Auxiliary Unit 170
11 – Fair Lawn American
Legion Post 171
Auxiliary
– Fair Lawn American
Legion Post 171
12 – Northern Valley
Chapter 32 of the DAV
15 – DAV Bergen
County Chapter 15
– Lyndhurst American
Legion Post 139
16 – Rutherford
American Legion SAL
109
17 – Mahwah American
Legion Post 531
– Elks Club Lodge 2167
– Elks Club Lodge 2475
Palisades Park/Fort Lee
Lodge
– VFW Post 4697 North
Arlington
18
19 – Paramus VFW Post
6699
20
21 – VVA Chapter 800 Bergen County
22
23 – Oakland American
Legion Post 369
– District 2
24 – Pompton Lakes
Marine Corp League
Detachment 744
– Wood-Ridge Post VFW
Post 3616
25
26
27
28 – DAV Chapter 49
29
30
31 – Teaneck American
Legion Post 128
6 – New MilfordTeaneck JWV Post 498
– Fair Lawn Jewish War
Veterans Post 651
– Fort Lee Jewish War
Veterans Post 741
13
Monday