Attended the Benjamin O. Davis VFW Post 311 Third Annual Commander’s Ball & Scholarship Awards Dinner last night. It is always a pleasure to support this great Post and to raise funds awarded to deserving college students in the Southland. Post 311 is called an “All American” Post. This honor is given to VFW Posts that meet rigorous criteria such as membership, money raised, programs administered and so forth. Out of the 375 or so VFW Posts in the state, only four hold the All American designation. The guest speaker was Dr. Damon Arnold, former Director of the Illinois Department of Public Health. He is a retired Army Colonel, formerly serving in Medical and other postings. The Mistress of Ceremonies was the talented and hard working Stacey Baca of ABC 7 News who did a tremendous job. Senator Mike Hastings was there, along with many local elected officials and dignitaries. It was great to “tux up” with my fellow vets; many of these events are old home week affairs. It was also great to see my old friend and martial arts mentor Dr. Shorty Mills. The seven time World Champion was also a SEAL during Vietnam. A great evening.
