Third Quarter 2023
WORD FROM THE DETACHMENT COMMANDANT
Another Department convention is over and we have passed a new Set of By-Laws and Administrative Procedures, which our Detachment is in compliance with. They have been approved by the National Judge Advocate and have been distributed to the various Detachments in the Department of Virginia. If anyone is interested in seeing them I have copies.
As for the Detachment our Toys for Tots Campaign is in a state of transition. Our Coordinator has stepped down due to personal reasons, which she shared to the Detachment at our April Meeting. I wish to thank Ms. Tonja Phillips for plus years of leadership as the area coordinator. This job is demanding and she did a NOTEWORTHY job for the children of the Shenandoah Valley! Moving forward, Jim Wolfe has agreed to head the Toys for Tots Campaign this coming year (for one year more) but we will need to have someone else in training to take over next year.
A group of longtime volunteers along with Jim and I have had a meeting to discuss our plans moving forward. I believe we can proceed with a more comprehensive group approach to take some of the stress and time commitment this position requires. I have prepared letters to business’ seeking financial contributions, which I plan on sending out soon to replenish our depleted balance in our Toys for Tots fund. Additionally, I have a letter to groups, troops, Organizations, schools, Fire and Police Departments, etc soliciting volunteer help when we start putting boxes out and help picking up, moving and distributing the toys. If anyone wishes to be considered for the follow on Coordinator position let Jim or me know of your desire. If you know someone outside of the League you think would be interested or a good fit also let us know. Someone within the current Detachment need not fill this position, but they would be under the support and guidance of the Detachment since we are the sponsors of the program.
We have put off the BBQ Cook off Fund Raiser until next year and hope to have the time to organize, Advertise, and facilitate a good turnout of not only contestants but public support of the event.
We participated in the 4th of July Parade in Middletown VA and the Winchester 2023 Apple Blossom Festival. A great time was had at both events handing out toys to children, advertising Toys For Tots and promoting the Winchester MCL.
I encourage you all to attend the Monthly Detachment Meeting every Third Tuesday of the Month at 6:30 PM at the American Legion Post 21 back room. We need everyone involved in the planning of the activities of the Detachment in order to succeed in our efforts.
The Marine of the Year Society (past members) have selected this year’s Marine of the Year Doug Anderson (retired GySgt) and Associate Marine of the Year, Ms. Anne Brunch (longtime faithful volunteer).
A very Special recognition goes to MCL member, Mr. Merrill K Hausenfluck who was awarded the Chapel of Four Chaplains Silver Humanitarian Service Medallion for his long-standing dedication and service to the community and veterans affairs in the Valley! OUTSTANDING accomplishment!
Semper Fi,
Phil
| MCL Upcoming Events – 6 Months | |
| Detachment Events | State and National |
| Detachment Monthly Meetings: 18 Jul 15 Aug 19 Sep 17 Oct 21 Nov 19 Dec (TBD) | Marine Corps Ball celebrations: TBD |
| Toys For Tots Kick-off: TBD | |
| BBQ & Open House 14 Oct 2023 1200-1700 American Legion Post 21 Winchester, VA | |
| Detachment Officers | ||
| Billet | Name | Contact |
| Commandant | Phil Parsons | 540-323-2928 |
| Sr. Vice Commandant | Vacant | |
| Paymaster | Jim Wolf | 540-327-4127 |
| Web Master Sergeant | Tom Harper | membership@winchestervamcl.org |
| Public Affairs Officer | Doug Anderson | Dk_lfande@msn.com |