BITS ‘N PIECES

(Dates shown indicate when it was put on the web.)

NOV 2000

The cost of The 2001 RETIRED MILITARY PERSONNEL HANDBOOK is still only $9.95 plus $3.00 S&H. You may order it online by going to the publications section of the website http://www.armedforcesnews.com or by calling a 24 hour toll-free order line (888)333-9335. You may also mail your order in with payment to: FEDweek, P.O. Box 71900, Richmond, VA  23255. 

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+ We have been notified by his daughter, Stella Wilson, that MAJ. Max R. STALBAUM died in OCT 1997 and that his widow Maureen STALBAUM died in DEC 99.

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Chick CECCHINI Will enter Walter Reed Hospital on 28 NOV for jaw restoration.

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The following note was received from COL (Ret) James B. KISSINGER, USAF in response to a letter we sent to inactive members.

“Thanks for your letter re. my membership.  I didn't forget the nominal dues payment, I just decided that it was time to bow out at this point in time when I only know two of your active members - Leroy LEGER and Ed BIRD.  You have a fine organization which you folks in the Army can be proud of.  I only spent five years in the pinks and greens, and I do not regret a minute of service with a diamond insignia on my chest.   I wish you all the best.”

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Bob RADOMSKI responded to my periodic check up via e-mail that: 

“I am doing just great. I drive the car and am leading a normal life. The pathology report showed no additional cancer.  He above works in strange ways. The pain of the kidney stone was what found the tumor. Without it who knows what would have happened. We were to leave in 2 days, after I went to the ER, for a 3 week trip into China.  This wasn't my year.” (ED: Be patient Bob, China will still be there when you get well.  Besides, I know that you always have trip insurance.)

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Al DURNING responded to an inquiry that his cancer was contained within the prostate and they are sure?? that they got it all.  No chemo. No radiation. 

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Carl ROTZ had a Hip replaced 18 Sep. and is doing well.  He even got back on the golf course after 6 weeks and went bowling a week later --- should not have bowled as soreness developed - but all is OK now.   (ED: This information was provided by Bob Radomski and Carl,after a follow up.)

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Jim CALHOUN is in Hospice care because of cancer.  Bob Radomski passed this information to us on 21 Nov 2000.

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Dan SOUTH has a new web page for RAFINCO.  It is to help the NCOs talk with each other.   http://home.talkcity.com/MemoryLn/dansouth/rafinco.html

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Bill ANDERSON & Richard ROBSON have rejoined the RAFINO group.

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CW4 Roy MORIN wrote that Harold (Hal) KASSERMAN had gotten a computer to help keep up to date. Roy went to the first Advanced Enlisted Finance class with Hal, at Ft Ben Harrison in January 1942. Hal probably remembers the expression often used by one of the instructors. " HOLY SHELLACK MY FEET ARE FREEZING" Major Fraser I seem to recall.  (ED: Kass, can you remember back that far?)

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CW4 Roy MORIN suggests that anyone who has a vision problem and needs more than a magnifying glass to read the computer monitor should get WEB TV like he did.  Roy has full Internet and E-Mail capability.  He is connected to a 30 in. TV. which eliminates the squinting over a small screen and has a wireless keyboard so he doesn't have to bend over a desk keyboard or use a mouse.   He just sits in a comfortable armchair and punches the keyboard. Roy says this is much easier for an older fellow.  (ED: You can find all you need to know about WEB TV at www.webtv.com .  Or search on keyword AOLTV if you are of the AOL persuasion.)

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DEC 2000

LTC James R. LOVE has a new e-mail address.  It has been entered on the Membership Roster of this Web site.

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The Department of Defense has agreed to call the new health coverage for medicare-eligible beneficiaries "TRICARE-for-Life".

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SGM Merle DAYE has been diagnosed with a cancerous tumor in the mouth.  It has been there about four months and has not caused a problem but a cat scan said it was 95% sure it was cancer on DEC 12th or 14th the DR. believes he will be able to remove the tumor by laser.  Through a cut in the throat he will remove all the lymph nodes he can find, follow this up with radiation treatments and be satisfied he got all the cancer.

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COL CHICK CECCHINI has provided the following blow by blow account of his lengthy encounter with the medical staff of Walter Reed Army Medical Center.

Hi to all!  Here is a status report on "my operation".   I believe all of  you were aware of the impending operation on my jaw and the several postponements.  But just to give you a starting point, I had the first operation in late Dec 99 in the lower left gum area to remove what was initially diagnosed as a benign cyst.  As it turned out the pathology exam of the tissue removed showed it to be a tumor -- but not the bad kind.  However, it indicated the need for removal of the bone in the lower left jaw which had been infected.  My civilian doctor's personal schedule did not allow for him to do it until mid-July.  Through a stroke of luck I ended up at Walter Reed Army Medical Center for a second opinion.  It came about that the chief of the Maxillofacial Dental Surgery service agreed to take on the operation inasmuch as WRAMC is a teaching hospital.  Scheduling it became a problem again.  Finally 31 August was to be it.  Then, due to an infection in the jaw area, it had to be moved up to 2 Nov.  Then, a week or so before that date, I had the temerity to come down with a case of bronchitis.  The anestheologists insisted that the operation not happen until at least two weeks after the final dose of the antibiotic necessary to clear that up, which ended up being the 28th of November 2000.  Now comes the current report.

I was called in before the operation to have my teeth wired in advance of the operation instead of the final phase in order to reduce the length of time I'd be under anesthesia. 

Then came the day FINALLY, I.e., 28 Nov 2000.  All went well until the actual work on taking out the offending jaw bone.  (This part of the operation was to be done entering the jaw from outside -- not inside as the mouth is considered too dirty often leading to infections.  Okay by me, of course.  However, as it turned out the surgeons found that the tumor had again spread back into the gum.  So, in effect, the very first operation had to be repeated to remove any infected gum.  Then, they still had to do removal of the infected jaw replacing it with titanium bar and part of my hipbone.  Instead of a six hour job it got to be an 8 hour one.  Further, to reduce the risk of infection in the mouth, I’ve been set up for feeding liquids ("Ensure" nutritional supplement) through a tube which runs from my right nostril directly down into my stomach.  Needs to be done every 2 hours for at least a week.  (I don't even get to taste the stuff!).  Of course, I'm quite sore in my jaw and also the left hip.  Sleeping is a chore -- with about two feet of feeding tubing hanging out of my nose (I look like an elephant.) 

This has to go on for at least two weeks.  Following that and no infection complications, I can look forward to 6-8 weeks of feeding with a large syringe.  But, at least, I'll be able to taste this blenderized food as I will be squirting this soft or liquid diet into the back of my mouth. 

Except for follow-up visits to Walter Reed, I'm stuck in the apartment simply doing the slow process of feeding myself.  Then, of course, follows the further dental work which I need to be able to chew again -- to be maybe the beginning of February or March 2001.  That program figures to take another six months.  Guess I'm looking forward to my eating first steak around Labor day next. 

But please understand that I consider myself extremely lucky to have been in the hands of the Walter Reed surgeons (four worked on me at the same time) plus a lot of others attending to duties in the operating room.  Besides them there are the other specialists who worked on me throughout the operation, into ICU, and then a recovery ward.  I've been assigned a splendid nutritionist who has been very helpful already. 

So, that is my dry report on "the operation".   I cannot speak on the telephone at all so this Email business is my means of communications with you all and the rest of the outside world for the time being.  Believe me, I'm truly looking forward to all of this being over with.  Thanks for your most kind inquiries and get well cards and calls.  (ED note: Chick don’t forget that you are telling your story to over 300 members on the web site.  Unfortunately you just missed the RAFINO Report which is at the printer.  Plan on having your first steak on the RAFINO Cruise in September 2001.  Our prayers will be with you all the way. Please update us weekly.)

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SOCIAL SECURITY COLA for 2001 of 3.5% has been announced for the checks arriving in January 2001.

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COLA FOR MILITARY RETIRED PAY has been announced at 3.5%.  This same increase will apply to Survivor Benefit Plan annuities, Veteran compensation payments, Dependency and Indemnity Compensation and pensions

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TROA announced In a special legislative update that on Monday, October 30, the President signed the FY 2001 Defense Authorization Act into law -- including provisions authorizing TRICARE-for-life and pharmacy coverage for Medicare-eligibles, and allocating part of the government surplus to establish a trust fund that will make this coverage a mandatory entitlement that will not have to compete for funding with the rest of the Defense budget.  This is to be effective October 1, 22001. You can subscribe to the free Legislative Update letter at www.troa.org/LegislativeUpdate.asp

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SGM Merle DAYE is recovering nicely from the surgery of 14 December.  He still has a lot of trouble swallowing and cannot eat hard foods yet.  Is living on soups, broths, ensure and other liquids. Sure hope the swelling and pain goes away soon.  (ED:  Those who know Merle can appreciate his efforts to have the DR include “and other liquids” in his prescription.)

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Irv and Jeanne LECKER have changed their ISP.  The new e-mail address is on the web site roster.

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JAN 2001

+ LTC Bernard REDDY died on 7 SEP at age 89.                  

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FINANCE IS 100+ %:

Seven out of seven 44's made O6.  The 8th in that year group put in her retirement papers before the list came out.  We also had two below the zone
guys.  Two names don't appear on the list, as they "don't exist."  Chuck Gibson (in the zone) and Bob Cook (BZ).  Others: Richard Shrank, Aaron Gillison, Billy Ray Smith, Kevin Troller, Doug Bonner, and Jim Leonard in the zone; and Chuck Kuyk BZ.

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DFAS Cleveland's Fax Service
DFAS Cleveland advises that there is now a toll free fax number that can be used for transmitting inquiries concerning retired pay related issues.  This fax service should preclude the use of "snail mail" or long waits attempting to get through on the busy DFAS toll free number. The fax number is:  1-800-469-6559.

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Dick DARCY and his son Conal are back safely from skiing the top of the Austrian Alps.

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VA COLAs 3.5 Percent
Monthly payments from the Department of Veterans Affairs for service-connected disability compensation and pensions have been raised by 3.5 percent. The cost-of-living adjustment also applies to survivors receiving death pensions or dependency and indemnity compensation. The hike parallels the increase in the cost-of-living adjustment legislated for Social Security recipients. Visit http://www.armedforcesnews.com to see the new rates.

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NEW ARMY SLOGAN:
The Army's long-standing recruitment slogan is out and the new one -- "An Army of One" -- has replaced it.

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FEB 2001

REPORT FROM CHICK:

On 9 January, my doctors removed my feeding tube (six weeks to the day after it was put in during the operation) and also snipped the wires which kept my jaws clamped shut -- replacing them with rubber bands just like a youngster with braces.  I'm scheduled to have all of the rest of the metal work around my teeth taken out this Friday, the 19th.  My healing is coming along well enough that I've been given the go-ahead to commence eating whatever I like and can manage with my atrophied jaw muscles.  I've found out that only the softest of foods are welcome and tolerated for the moment BUT, at least, I'm actually eating and tasting honest-to-goodness food once again!  Of course, there is still some time (maybe 3-4 months) before the replacement jaw stuff will have hardened enough to allow phase 2 to start, i.e., the implant work leading to a partial -- a process projected to take about six months to complete.  However, just having gotten rid of that damn feeding tube makes me feel like a liberated man!  Regards, Chick

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+Art PERRY died 7 August 2000. His widow's phone # is 646-5627. Art was cremated and his ashes are being held by Betty until they can be buried together.   Art was listed in the RAFINO Report # 25 as Date unk.  This information was furnished by Donna Keyes

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LTC Johnnie  & Carolyn BEALE have moved from Alexandria, VA to Fayetteville, GA

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Joe GOETTE  sent the following message, "My OCS Class #21 (Dec23.1943) was the last Finance Class of WWII.  It was the 1st 4-month class!  Please send my regards to COL Fletcher YOUNG - the only classmate of mine on the RAFINO roster.  Thank you."  (Ed. This message has been relayed to COL Young.)

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LTC Edward BARTO sent the following message to COL. Mikkelson, I request that you remove me from the RAFINO membership rolls. I came into the Finance Corps in 1951 from AntiAircraft Artillery while I was with the Audit Agency in Germany. Except for a stint at the Finance School heading the Extension Course Department, I had little contact with Finance Officers. So, my problem is that I know so few Finance Officers that receiving and looking over the RAFINO Report means little to me. I vaguely remember Chick Cecchini and Russ Chapin, and that is about it.  (Ed note:  Ed we are sorry to lose you and Phyliss from the organization.)

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+Cindy Pope Studeman provided the following report thru Dan South.

My father, MSG Thomas E. POPE, Jr., died on January 18, 2001 at the age of 71.  Dad spent 42 years serving his country, 21 in the Army and the next 21 with the National Park Service, retiring in Grand Coulee, WA in 1992. He was an avid outdoorsman and loved camping, hiking, and boating.  

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Al DURNING furnished the following status of his bout with cancer.  Apparently after my prostate surgery, in July, there was a pocket of fluid adjacent to or in a large muscle that runs across my left groin to my left leg.  Last month I came down with what I thought was the Flu.  I lost 15 pounds in 14 days, mostly from temperature and sweating.  But I couldn't lift my left leg more then three inches off the floor without severe pain in the left groin area.  Eventually a Cat Scan showed that the fluid collection had shrunk in size but had become infected.  I've been on antibiotics for six week with four more to go.  Am due for another Cat Scan Monday to see if the abscess is gone.

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Al DURNING also provided proof that he is moving up in the street, if not in the world.  His new address is 1140 Draymore Court, Hummelstown, PA 17036-9018.

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+ COL. Louis P. BULDAIN died 24 OCT 2000 at age 85 from prostate cancer.  He retired in August 1969.  Bob Radomski tells me that he and Bob Teasdale were in the same Advance Class with Lou in 59-60.

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+ LTC Edward C. ROGERS died 26 AUG 2000 at age 89.  He was retired from the Army in SEP 1958.  His Daughter Pamela provided a copy of his memorial service after receiving the RAFINO Report # 25.  Pamela said that he would “read the magazine from cover to cover, underlining information about friends he knew.  His Army experience was profoundly important to him.”

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+ MAJ Barbara FARRELL was found dead at home on 12/22/99.  Her mail is forwarded to my husband Joe (her brother).  My husband had notified the military office of the Army in Cleveland.  We wanted to inform you so you could notify your members of the RAFINO Society.  (Information furnished by Peggy Farrell after receipt of RAFINO Report # 25.)

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Lynn FREEMAN sent the following message after I helped him with a phone number.  “Thanks for the clue about how to reach Maggie SHEPPARD.  You were correct about the change in Area Code from 6l9 to 858.  We were able to talk last night (31 JAN) and had a wonderful conversation.   I worked for Jerry Sheppard and took over the 2nd FDS account in Giessen, Germany from him.  They were part of my 3rd daughter’s birth.”  

(ED.  This is an example of the difficulty that we have in keeping up with our members.  The area code for San Diego changed and we were not notified.  Fortunately one member sent in a change and I was able to make an educated guess from the new section of the roster.)

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Donald BARLOW sold their house at 10700 Leslie Drive and has a temporary address in Raleigh, NC now.  The new temp address is on the roster.

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CWO3 Robert BRANCH sent a note with his dues, "the new RAFINO Report is a classy newsletter - keep up the good work, it is appreciated by all members." (ED. Thanks Bob.  It helps pass the time when you know that the finished product is appreciated.)

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Russell CHAPIN has taken the plunge and has an e-mail address.  The computer belongs to his granddaughter, but she is willing to share.   The address is on the roster of the web.  Russ cautions us to watch our language since his granddaughter may be listening in.  (ED. Russ, I am proud to promote you into the 21st century.)

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Personnel Recovery Conference Discusses Major Issues.

These issues are covered in an article in the American Forces Press Service.   Mel Richmond, Jr., acting director of operations of the Defense Prisoner of War/Missing Personnel Office is the eldest son of Mel and Mary Richmond.  The whole article is at the URL http://www.defenselink.mil/news/Jan2001/n01262001_200101261.html

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The Finance Corps has a new web site at www.fincorps.org .  It is recommended for your reading and enjoyment.  Charlene Kow, the webmaster, has been a great help to me in getting our web site going.

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+Jim CALHOUN passed away Sunday, 11 Feb 2001.   Bob RADOMSKI and Al ABBOTT spent an hour with him last week. Talked of old times. Jim is to be buried at the Santa Fe National Cemetery on Thursday, 15 Feb 2001. Al Abbott and Bob RADOMSKI will represent RAFINO. Mary Lou and a Friend of Al's will accompany them.   Members of the Military Order of the World Wars will also attend to say good bye to an old friend. Jim and Connie were married 58 years ago, and lived in Albuquerque since about 1970.  

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Bob RADOMSKI reports “during our (Al & I) last visit last week with Jim he could still remember his old Finance friends. We went back to the 40's and 50's talking of old times.  No one's ears were burnt as he spoke highly of all of you. The Finance Corps was his second love.  He was a DMR.  We will miss him.

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Rick DARCY noted Joe Goette's note on the Bulletin Board about the last Finance OCS class in 1943.   I worked for Joe in 1964 at the 63rd Finance Section in Orleans, France as the chief of pay and exam.  Joe was the CO and the ADO.  Atushi (Gary) FUTAMASE was the Cash Control Officer.  Joe has been in Laurel since he retired in '64 or '65.

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Carl ROTZ checked in to report as follows: “I turned 84 on Jan 11, but it was not easy -- I had open heart surgery.   The only inkling that I had a problem were spells on the golf course - over the previous 2 years I would sometimes begin to feel light-headed and get a tightness across my jaw --I would sit down and after a few minutes problem would disappear. Of course each time I would leave the golf course and go home to schedule appointment with Dr. -- many tests later to include those by cardiologist, there was still no inkling as to the problem.  Then early Jan this year I was bowling and got a spell - only this one included tightness across chest and sweating.  Martha was there and herded me off to hospital emergency room - they gave me electrical shock to stabilize my heart beat and loaded me in an ambulance to Pittsburgh Allegheny Hospital.  There catherization revealed heart blockage, so on to operating room for bypass (single).  That took care of birthday party  - and had to cancel cruise to South Carib scheduled for 3 Feb.  I am recovering with worst part adjusting medicine to get blood thinness stabilized at desired level.  All this after hip replacement Sep. 00 has been a little much. 

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Paul LAIRD, who retired and went with his wife to near her home in Italy to make their home and have been there happily ever since, came visiting his hometown in Bell Vernon PA.  He gave Carl ROTZ a call and first thing you know they had a reunion dinner visit together  - most enjoyable.

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Despite the hip and heart problems Carl and Martha ROTZ plan to go on the RAFINO Cruise.  He adds since there be plenty of time on this cruise for bridge, hopefully you will recruit bridge playing partners.   (ED: Carl, work on getting well and we will have bridge for sure.)

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LTC Duncan CHAMBERLIN asks to be taken off the roll.  He said, “I have enjoyed receiving the RAFINO Report and have contributed several reported items to it.  The few members that I knew have passed away and now I have nothing in common with the members.  Thank you for your efforts and best wishes.”  (ED.  It is a shame that we lose members that cannot be reached by the web site.  I write to each and encourage them to try to get access to the web and stay in contact with us.)

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TROA's legislative update, 02-09-01

Beware of TFL Enrollment Offers
It’s not surprising that, with the announcement of the Tricare-For-Life (TFL) health care plan for Medicare-eligible uniformed services retirees and their families, someone would use it to try to make a fast buck.
We’ve received word that at least one organization is offering to enroll people in TFL for a fee.  Don't be duped!  There’s NO FEE involved in signing up for TFL.  IT’S FREE!!!  As we’ve advised in the past, all you have to do to be eligible for this new program is (1) be enrolled in Medicare Part B and (2) ensure that your personal information in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) is current.  Chances are that if nothing has changed since you received your military identification card, you’re in good shape.  Anyone who promises to enroll you in TFL for a fee is attempting to take your money in exchange for a worthless service.  Don’t be taken.  Please let us know of any such attempt and we’ll spread the word.  If you are approached by one of these "TFL enrollment facilitators," either send us an email at legis@TROA.org or call us at 1-800-245-8762 and give us the details of any such “offer.”

DoD Plans Data Match with Medicare to Verify Medicare Part B Enrollment.

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Kris KUSAK sent us information that “her stepmother, Jodi A. MCMAHON passed away on October 17, 2000 after a brief but heroic bout with pancreatic cancer.  She was the widow of Colonel (Ret) W.J. MCMAHON who passed away in December of 1996.”  (Ed. Kris, you have the sincere sympathy of all the members of RAFINO.)

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MSG William VALENZUELA is back in hospital at William Beaumont A. M. C.in El Paso getting ready to undergo surgery that may mean his pancreas is going to have to be removed, or a complete resection of his abdomen at second worst.  Worst is if all they do is drain a pseudo cyst and close him back up.Surgery will be Wednesday 21 February.  Bill’s wife Moira asks that we please pray for him and pass the word to others for him. Cards can be sent to PO Box 12383, Fort Huachuca, AZ 85670-2383. Email: WValen9327@aol.com 

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Roger EDGINGTON wrote, “I just read where Jim CALHOUN passed away.  We first met when he was a student at CGSC in 1954.  We met again several times and we were together in Vietnam.  He and I opened the first banking facilities for Vietnam, with Chase Manhattan in Bangkok.  We exchanged Christmas cards for many years and Connie used to write volumes on Jim's travels and exploits with the Scottish group he was leading for some time.  Of course they were on the Barcelona cruise too.  I really was saddened to know of his passing.” 

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Dave MIKKELSON reported that they had a 'dutch dining' of retirees here in Indy area Thursday evening 15 February.  Dave said it was good to see so many FC friends. 

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Carl ROTZ sent in an update.  “Getting better but they are still adjusting my blood - too thick or mostly too thin.  Heard from Radomski that Jim Calhoun and was so sorry to hear that - another gone from our generation - had just sent him a greetings card.”

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LTC. Forrest McKEOWN  asked that his late ballot be consider a 'chad' recount - of course! (Ed: And Forrest is not even from Florida.)

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COL. Earl BAUMAN has requested that his name be removed from the membership roll.

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COL. Walter LABOVICH wants to know when life memberships are to be announced.  (Ed: You young guys are always looking for a bargain.  Hang in there Walt.)

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MAR 2001

John KENT sent a note in with his dues: “Sorry for the dues oversight.  I was probably out fishing or hunting.  This has been our mildest winter in our 32 years here in Alaska.  Had a “brown November”.  We visited our son in Ft. DeFiance, Arizona for Christmas and got snowed on there.  Best of health to the entire finance family for 2001 and beyond. 

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NEW MEMBER – COL. Tony TRINIDAD of Springfield, VA says he looks forward to receiving information on the Finance Corps and to renew contact with his fellow Finance Officers.  (Ed:  Tony I will do the best that I can to keep the information on the web site for you.  I notice that the form you sent in came from www.rafino.org. )

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Ed GILMORE sent the following note in with his dues.  He had just made his first visit to the web and read Ed Barto’s withdrawal from RAFINO.  “I too found only a few names when I went through the Fall RAFINO Report that arrived today.  Most of my 23 years service was spent in the MPC, only about the last 4 years in the Corps.  I had been a member of the Comptroller Program since the mid 60’s.  The years even before my transfer are filled with memories of FC personnel.”  He went on to say that he had made one reunion which was enjoyable and that he will see us in Indy in 2002.  (Ed: See you there Ed.)

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COL. Earl BAUMAN has cancelled his membership.  He is 85 years old, disabled and unable to participate in our activities.  (Ed: We shall miss you Earl.)

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CW4 Edward BRUCHHAUSER sent a note asking for information about what was happening in RAFINO.  (Ed: I sincerely hope that this was written before Ed received the RAFINO Report.  This is a classic case where access to the web site could provide a running and current answer to Ed’s question.)  Ed also asked for information on Don Cole, former F & A O at Ft. Meade.  As Ed says, “He was my last FO before Washington slaughtered the WO-Finance Corps.”  (Ed:  Can any of you help Ed in this matter?)

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The DC Finance Corps Regimental activities and banquet will be on 12 & 13 October 2001 at Ft. Belvoir.

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Johnny LAWTON has retired from AMS and has a new email address that is posted to the roster.

The Retired Officers Association's (TROA) Personal Affairs Department issues a periodic e-mail report on current issues.  To subscribe to future editions of this update contact http://www.troa.org/PAnewsletter.asp .  It is recommended.

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Roger EDGINGTON noted that Col Louis P. BULDAIN had died.  “Lou was in my basic Finance Officer's class back in the brown shoe days.   Lou always had a big smile and a huge mustache.  I am sure that many knew him.  I met him once somewhere after we finished the course.  He was a Captain at the time, I was a First Lieutenant and most everyone else were Second Lieutenants. “

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Fred SCHRADER and Dick DARCY shared information that the MDW chapter of RAFINO is up and running -- with the second social event (or mini-RAFINO reunion) having just been held at the Orleans House [Roslyn, VA].  Fred says that he can see   chapters all over the this great nation of ours! 
They are talking about a happy hour adventure at the ANC [Army Navy Club] as our third chapter affair.

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Frank CLAYTON reports that he was busy becoming a Grandfather instead of attending the reunion in DC.  Frank gives the first report on the new section of the roster by stating, “I didn’t know we had 8 members in Hawaii.”  He lamented the loss of so many friends.  Frank remembers four tours in Indianapolis and seems apprehensive about returning for the 2002 reunion.  We are all invited to cocktails and dinner in Hawaii.  All we have to do is get there.  (Ed: Frank, you and Billie come on to the 2002 reunion.  We will make you forget you ever saw the place.)

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Carl ROTZ says that he has been seeing some disquieting news regarding the future of  finance in the Army - like that there are too many soldiers in support services (to include Finance) of the Army and change is recommended to replace with civilians or contract personnel. THIS IS AN OLD SAW presumed to result in saving money. Hopefully our active duty Finance people can put up counter arguments to squash - as we did success-fully in our day.  (Ed: BG TANT and STANTON as well as the Finance Board members take note of this voice from long experience.)

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DoD Pharmacy Call Center
A toll-free telephone line was established in February to answer questions retirees may have about the TRICARE Senior Pharmacy (TSRx) benefit that becomes operational April 1, 2001.  The DoD call center at 1-877-363-6337 is operational from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Friday, Eastern Time (except holidays).

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France Honors WWII Veterans with "THANK-YOU-AMERICA CERTIFICATE"
The French Government is issuing a certificate to recognize the participation of all American and allied service members who took part in the Normandy landing and contributed to the liberation of France. Eligible veterans must have participated in the Normandy landing and liberation of France, on French territory and in French territorial waters and airspace, between June 6, 1944 and May 8, 1945.  The certificate will not be issued posthumously.

To apply eligible veterans must submit an application form with a copy of documented proof of their service in France between June 6, 1944 and May 8, 1945.  Please send a copy, the documentation will not be returned.  Once completed the application form should be sent to the nearest Consulate General of France.  For a list of French Consulates in the U.S. and an application form please visit the following web site: http://www.info-france-usa.org

If you do not have access to the Internet TROA members may call 1-800-245-8762 to request an application form and list of French Consulates in the U.S.

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Carl ROTZ reports that his cardiologist made some pill changes and said he could play golf, go skiing, bowl, just stay active, and set him up for rehab  routine -- but no car driving until release comes from surgeon.  The surgeon's office called and postponed the office call for a week. Seems unless the surgeon examines and gives OK that chest has healed that I might get involved in accident where air bag explodes and causes severe damage to a weakened chest. I buy that, but sure don't appreciate his busy schedule delaying the appointment.

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President Mo DENNY has a new e-mail address at home.  It is on the web roster.

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SGM Merle DAYE is doing well although he is still having trouble opening his mouth all the way.  He will return to the doctor on 22 March and will see what he thinks.

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+ Mrs. Lillian FORD, wife of LTC (R) Edward A. Ford, who has been fighting a cancer for several years, passed away on 14 March 2001 and was buried at Arlington National Cemetery on Wednesday 21 March.  Sjelja and Chick were there to represent RAFINO. 

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BY-LAWS APPROVED:  The By-laws changes were approved by a very large majority of those voting.  Keep RAFINO Report # 25 and you have a personal copy of the By-laws.

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Ralph DIXON had a heart attack Wednesday 14 March 2001.   He went to Community North Hospital after experiencing some discomfort early Wednesday morning.  The emergency room was not convinced that he was having a problem since the pain was on the right side of his chest and down his right arm.  However an EKG indicated he was in the process of having a heart attack as they ran the tests. Ralph had one artery that was completely blocked and some blockage in a couple of others.  They installed a stint in the blocked artery.  Bruce HALL stopped to see Ralph in the hospital Thursday night and he looked good and said he was feeling very well.  He complained that he had a long list of Doctor's "do's and don'ts" that he will have to follow for the next six weeks.  Other than that he seemed to be in good humor.  Of course most of the time during the visit they talked about all the things still need to be done to host the 2002 RAFINO Reunion in Indianapolis.  During the time Ralph was in the hospital (he was released Friday 16 March 2001) he was visited by Bill ANDREWS’ son-in-law who is a Doctor practicing in Indianapolis.  Ralph really appreciated his thoughtfulness.

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Robert W. TUDOR has a new e-mail address on the web roster.

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George R. LOEFFLER has a new phone # that is posted on the web roster.

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James E. RUSK sent a note in with his dues that he is selling their cottage/fishing business.

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Net Trends: NetValue, an Internet measuring company, studied national and gender trends in Web use. Of 12 nations surveyed, Denmark was the most wired country with 54% of households boasting Net access, followed by the U.S., Singapore, and Taiwan. Clearly, Net use has more to do with technology policies and economic development than geography. There's a worldwide gender gap in Internet access, too. Mexico was the worst -- 66% of Mexican Net users are men, compared to 52% in the U.S., the nation with the greatest Net equity.

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To friends of our father COL Herb GASSIE 
Early this past Saturday 31 March, Herb went into the hospital for chest pains.  There was found to be 90% blockage in one artery.  When they attempted to put a stint in that artery, he went into cardiac arrest.  They got his heart going again, but his body was never able to stabilize on its own, causing the organs to break down.  This caused a build up of acid in his system, and doctors told us he wouldn't get better on his own. We eventually took him off the life support, and he died about 3 am early Sunday, 1 April. The viewing will be Tuesday from 4pm-8pm, and the funeral will be Wednesday 11am.

Sincerely, 

Family of Herb Gassie

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+ Herbert H. GASSIE, 69, Indianapolis, died April 1. He had been manager for National City Bank, Fort Benjamin Harrison branch. Previously, Mr. Gassie was director of pay operations for the Defense Finance and Accounting Service at Fort Benjamin Harrison. He was an Army veteran of the Vietnam War, retiring as a colonel in 1985. Mr. Gassie was a member of Lawrence Exchange Club and a board member for Shepherd Community Mission. He was a graduate of Louisiana State University and American University.  Services: 11 a.m., April 4 in First Church of the Nazarene, of which he was a member with calling there from 4 to 8 p.m. April 3 and from 10 a.m. April 4. Entombment: Washington Park East Mausoleum. 

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Roger EDGINGTON says, “Herb was an Infantry First Lieutenant in the Comptroller's Office in Bremerhaven, Germany when I was Deputy FAO and then FAO there. 

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APR 2001

President Mo DENNY says, “Very sad news, Herb was always the ultimate upbeat guy.   I remember we lived on the same street when I was assigned to the Finance School and the time his house burned.  He was a great piano player also.  I know everyone in Indy will support his family.”

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Roy WRATISLAW says, “Your dispatch of Herb's passing was very much appreciated. Herb was my Advanced Class Leader. We served together at the school, in Germany and the Finance Center. You probably remember him as the Central Finance Officer. We were very close. Spent a lot of time eating and sleeping at each others home. My last night in the service was as a guest of Peggy and Herb. We are now trying to arrange transportation to his services.”

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Ron GIFFORD says, “I need to get in touch with SGM (ret) Ted Moran.  I know he's a member of RAFINCO - he's been to the last three reunions.  He was Herb Gassie's SGM in the 4th Inf. Div in Nam in 1969-70, and I was the deputy.”  (ED. I sent the address to Ron.  Just one of the RAFINO services.  Then Ron provided the following comments)

“Thanks for the info.  I used the Internet and got his phone number and called him from home.  He in turn called MG (Ret) Orris Kelly, who was the 4th Inf. Div Chaplain when Herb and I were there.  He called me at home last night from his home in Manhattan, KS. Hadn't forgotten an old friend from the Nam days, in spite of the fact that he had been promoted several times and served as Chief of Chaplains for a time.  I also used the Internet to contact one of the lieutenants who worked for us in the 4th ID.  I hadn't talked to him since he left the division in Feb '70, although we have traded Xmas cards each year.  The Internet is a wonderful thing! “  (Ed: Yes Ron, it is a shame that the 400 members who still use snail mail can’t read your comment.)

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Jim MARTENS says, Glenna and I met Herb and Peggy in the Spring of 1977 at Frank & Madge Socky’s House in Heidelberg, Germany. During that tour in Germany, and later at the Finance center they became friends. You always knew when Herb was around (no one could ever imitate that robust laugh). Herb, as I recall, gave us a demo on the proper way to arch swords in the back room of the church at Jerry and Jean’s wedding. Our rehearsal with the swords in preparation for the arch was not only humorous, but dangerous. Herb and Peggy had to cancel their attendance at reunion 2000, at the last minute. That was a big disappointment for many of us, because the “old war stories” weren’t the same. Herb was a good man, and a friend to many of us. He will be greatly missed.”

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Bud EMERSON says, “I want to express my personal shock and the tremendous loss I feel and I know all of us feel as a result of Herb Gassie's death.  Herb was certainly one of the most influential persons in my life especially during my Army Finance Career.  As is the case with Roy Wratislaw, Herb was my class leader in the last Army Finance Officer Advanced Course that lasted nine months.  Lucy and I lived in Harrison Village across from Roy Wratislaw, next to Frank Barret, and not far from Herb.  From that time on for the next 20 plus years I worked with and for Herb Gassie.  I agree with all the positive things everyone has said about him especially his consistent positive and joyous attitude.  He will be missed but will always be remembered.”

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Dave MIKKELSON says, “Services for Herb Wed morning were quite moving.  Ron GIFFORD did a super job of his remembrances of Herb.  Of course there was a good turnout of the retired Corps there.  I was pleased to say hello to COL  Tom ROBERTS, now at the "Center".  Lt Roberts was Gen Burn's aide years ago when I was the XO at the "Center".”

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The following information was shared with us by the family of COL Herbert GASSIE.

Hundreds poured into the church to acknowledge our father for the visitation and the service the very next day.  Here are some of the comments we heard over and over again:
What a legacy you have...
Your father was a great man...
It was an honor to know your father...
He was special to me...
He will be greatly missed...
He was always happy...
He left a great example for you to follow...
We loved your father...
He loved this church...
He loved us...
Your father did a lot for me...
Words can't describe what he meant to us...
I was overwhelmed by your father...
He was a great soldier...
He was a loving man...
He was very dedicated...
He was always there to help...
He gave so much of himself...
He was a great servant...
We were raised to be like Christ, and we needed to look no further for a proper example than our father...
Thanks for your love and support,
The family of Herb Gassie

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LEGAL OFFICES ONLINE
The Army and the Navy have installed online legal offices, each providing a variety of online legal services. The Army’s site is at http://www.jagcnet.army.mil/Legal . The Navy Legal Service Office North Central site is at http://www.jag.navy.mil/html/NLSONCMainIntro.htm , or can be linked through the Navy JAG web site http://www.jag.navy.mil .

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FREE weekly electronic newsletter: RETIREMENT & FINANCIAL PLANNING REPORT, has received thousands of new sign ups from military members in the past couple of weeks alone, largely due to the recent market’s performance. If you are not already a subscriber, you are missing a very good FREE investment and financial planning newsletter that helps you with your retirement and financial planning needs. You can check this week’s issue out and sign up by going to our website http://www.armedforcesnews.com and clicking on the "Retirement & Financial Planning Report" button in the upper right-hand side of the home page.

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Carl ROTZ reports that he is in therapy 3 times a week. It is boring and so far has not enabled him to walk the Mall without stopping quite often for a few minutes rest.  He says, “I  guess I just expected full and fast recovery as I had with the hip replacement last September. 

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Chick CECCHINI says that except for the limited ability to eat anything which requires normal chewing, he is about as normal as he ever was.  He must wait until the end of May for the jaw replacement material to mature and harden enough to start work on implants.  That is expected to be a six-month program.

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SGLI INCREASE:
Eligible service members will automatically be insured for a maximum $250,000 in coverage through the military's life insurance program starting April 1. 
The new coverage marks a $50,000 increase over the previous maximum provided for Service members' Group Life Insurance.  The premium for maximum coverage will be $20 monthly. Participants can then decrease or maintain their levels of SGLI
coverage.  Service members who want less than $250,000 of coverage after April 1 must apply for it through unit finance or personnel officials.  If you don't want the increased insurance, you have a 30-day grace period to decline it, otherwise, you'll have to pay at least two months of increased coverage. 
The government and commercial insurers underwrite SGLI, which has been in existence since 1965.  It has been more than eight years since the last increase in maximum coverage.  Ninety eight percent of all service members are covered by SGLI and 80% have maximum coverage.  At 80 cents for each $10,000 of coverage, SGLI rates are competitive, and coverage is guaranteed, whether you're an aviator, sailor or tanker.  Service members can also convert their SGLI policies to the Veterans' Group Life Insurance program after they leave the service. 

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DOD HEARING AID PROGRAM
The Retiree-At-Cost Hearing Aid Program (RACHAP) provides retired service members the opportunity to purchase hearing aids at government cost.  The hearing aids are purchased directly from the manufacturer at substantial savings, often as much as 300%, over the cost for the same hearings aids sold and fitted in the civilian community.  Unfortunately, the RACHAP is not available to family members.  Retirees are encouraged to call and inquire as to availability of the RACHAP at the nearest
Military Treatment Facility (MTF).   For more details see TROA's Personal Affairs Update, April 2, 2001.  (www.troa.org)

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Virginia WALLACE was named “First Lady of Kilgore” at the annual banquet of the Beta Sigma Phi Sorority on Friday 30 March.  J. Claud had been named Citizen of the year at the annual Chamber of Commerce banquet a couple weeks earlier.

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+ Mrs. Jeraldine SHUGART, widow of LTC Henry G. (Gerry) SHUGART called to ask that Gerry’s death on 14 JAN 2001 be recorded in TAPS.  Gerry died of cancer just 1 1/2 weeks after being diagnosed.  There is a belief that the cancer may be related to “agent orange”.  Gerry had not registered with the VA as a Vietnam Veteran and Jeraldine asked that I remind all you VN Vets to get registered.  She also asked that I convey her thanks to the RAFINO family for courtesy shown after Gerry’s death as well as for thoughts and prayers.

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The other day Bob RADOMSKI called and told me that The phone for Jeraldine SHUGART had been disconnected.  In cases like this I, as the Editor/Webmaster, have no reservation in calling for help.  So I kicked a request for help out to Dick SHAFFER because he had in the same area code as Jeraldine.  In just a matter of hours Dick answered my e-mail with the information that the area code for Roswell, GA was now 770 instead of 404.  Dick also said that he had a great conversation with Jeraldine.

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The new address for Bud EMERSON in Rockledge, FL is in the web roster.

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Dick SHAFFER provided his travel schedule for 2002 which will pass for a good excuse for not attending the Reunion in Indianapolis.  He said, “We will not be able to make Indy RAFINO reunion in August 2002.  I am in Utah the first part of August 2002 and then in Berlin (for the Berlin Veterans reunion) the middle of the month and then Germany and Scotland the last part.  Primarily gone for a whole month or more.  Then it is time to come home and start paying the credit card bills.”

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For a look at the administration’s approach to MANAGING FEDERAL AGENCIES and, in turn, federal employees, go to http://www.fedweek.com and click on the “Hot Free Info” button on the home page.

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Carlton DAVIS sent a change of e-mail address and the following e-mail.  “Great job on the latest changes to the web site.  Whatever you did sure made navigation a lot faster.  I check the site about once per week and look forward to reading the news.   Cathie, Jim, and twins are planning on moving to Warren this summer.  Jim goes to work for FEDEX as a pilot June 11 and plans to commute on a weekly basis.  They both like Warren as a place to raise children.” (Ed.  I wish that every one could read the weekly update of RAFINO family news.  Maybe one of these days.)

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Harley MOHR sent in his e-mail address which is now posted on the web roster.  He also said the following, “We sure were sorry to hear about Herb’s death.  We wouldn't have known about it except for the web site.”

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One of our new members, Col Sam CLINE just retired from the Army National Guard.  He worked as the Army National Guard Finance Team Chief within DFAS Indianapolis

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MAY 2001

Donna Keyes had a call from Maggie SHROYER.  Jim SHROYER had a massive stroke on Monday, 23 April.  His mind has been affected, he is not walking because of weakness only. Seems he goes in and out, when in, he is able to answer her so he does not have speech damage.    Jim is in a nursing home. There is a retirement home connected with this nursing home and she is renting an apartment there and selling their home, etc. Will keep you informed of any late news.    

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SFC Tim PERRINE is in Mercy Hospital in Roseburg, OR.  He is suffering from esophageal varices (bleeding from the esophagus basically) which is a by-product of the cirrhosis of the liver that he has.  Tim was admitted on Sunday afternoon, 22 April 01.  His condition is touch-and-go right now.  The bleeding has been stopped for the time being.  He is heavily sedated to prevent his fighting the ventilator.  Paula said that he was going into "lung shock" and that there was talk amongst the medical staff of kidney failure.  Paula may be contacted by phone at (541)464-5883.

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Ms. Ky CLARK has moved to a smaller home in Centerville, VA. 

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Tony RENFREY Queried Dave about dues and included this note, “Life is great after the Army.  I have been out in "civvy street" for over 6 years now.  Cathy and I are living in the South of England, about 20 miles SW of London.  I tend to commute into London quite a lot, so it is nice being so close.  It is also good for both Heathrow and Gatwick airports, so planning vacation flights is a doddle!  Which is as well as we are looking forward to the 2002 reunion and hope to be meeting up with Hank and Judy Neil in Washington first, before driving/flying into Indy for the reunion...details and timings yet to be finalized!

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Dan South has advised that SSG John BAER has died.  John Baer died on December 31, 2000.  A memorial service was held at the First Unitarian Church of Dallas, Texas on January 10, 2001.   John was at the Washington, DC reunion.    John wanted to have his ashes interred at Arlington National Cemetery, however the minister who conducted the service is having difficulty getting permission.  Anyone who can help should contact the webmaster.

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President Mo DENNY had the following to say, “SSG BAER was a very visible part of the last two reunions.   He was short in stature but big in heart and enjoyment.  He obviously enjoyed being amongst the Finance Corps family.   He will certainly be missed at the reunions.

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The US Mint has just offered the 2001 mint proof sets for sale on the web at www.usmint.gov

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The following is a message to SGM John MEDLEY from Steve Lewis, Executive Director, The First Unitarian Church of Dallas.

“Thank you for your recent contact with Rev. Laurel Hallman concerning John BAER.  We believe that we are now on our way to being able to finalize his request for interment at National.  Thank you for your kind offer of assistance.”

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Paula, wife of SFC Tim PERRINE wrote to thank all of you for your prayers and to let you know that Tim is surviving the odds. I know that prayer has helped him to recover. He is awake, alert and responds to commands appropriately with head nods of 'yes and no'...His labs are improving and he is breathing on his own without the help of the ventilator...from time to time. They are weaning
him off the ventilator. He is now being tube fed with a high calorie supplement and is tolerating this well.

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Hope METZGER, wife of Ralph METZGER, died 28 August 2000 from a series of strokes.  Hope was a retired LTC and a lovely lady.  (ED: Ralph was my boss at Pine Bluff Arsenal Arkansas when I was a 1st LT and the F&AO.)

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Mary GORSE, daughter of Ralph METZGER, sent in Ralph’s dues and gave us a report on his physical condition.  Ralph has some memory loss but he is in very good health for his 91 years.  The doctors believe that he probably has Alzheimer’s so we put him on one of the new medicines that seems to have stabilized the situation.  Ralph still lives in his house with a full time live-in family to care for him.

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Tom HARGIS is now the Secretary for the Army And Air Force Mutual Aid Association Fort Myer, Virginia  1-800-336-4538 X 301.

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LTC Luis A. SEPULVEDA, Fairfax Station, VA is our newest member.  Welcome Luis.  The address is on the web roster.