Minutes for Meeting April 9, 2008
Before the meeting opened Commander Allen introduced special guest Secretary of Veteran Affairs Lane Carson and Deputy Secretary Colonel Joey Strickland , they were only able to join us for lunch.
Secretary Carson could not stay for the meeting but before he left he helped in the presentation of a recognition award to Commander Williams. Chaplin Riley Diamond and Secretary Carson presented a much deserved Serves award to Tiggerman and he was very much surprised.
After Secretary Carson left, Military Order of Purple Heart Chapter 177 opened meeting with prayer (Chaplin Riley Diamond) and pledge of allegiance to our flag.
Next order of business was Commander Allen gave our finical repoert and made mention that our audit that was performed in March was excellent in nature and our books were in excellent shape. Commander Allen shared the reason he was making the report was due to Benny's illness.
At this time a motion was made that all business be suspended in order that installation of newly elected officers take place. Motion made by Commander Allen and second by Patriot O'Brien. All new officers were lined up and oath was given for the installation of officer for 2008. Newly elected Commander Roland Doucet and Secretary Benny Stanley and Sgt. At Arms Eddie Joe will be installed at the May 14, 2008 meeting.
After installation of officers there were a few new items of business. First, Magan Muson reported that Roosevelt Gipson had received a favorable decision in benefits, secondly, Vice Commander O'Brien shared with patriots that Chapter 177 had a meeting scheduled with Secretary Carson to discuss additional benefits concerning small business loans and additional higher education benefits for combat wounded veterans. And last but not least Commander Allen gave and update concerning Benny Stanley and all patriots were asked to keep Benny and his family in our prayers.
The last order of business was information presented concerning the upcoming Purple Heart State Convention to be held in Alexandria, Louisiana.
Meeting was closed with Prayer by Chaplin Riley Diamond.