AMVETS Post 44: A Busy and Successful Summer of Service

Since the beginning of June, AMVETS Post 44 has experienced an incredibly busy and rewarding season filled with community outreach, fellowship, and service. Throughout June and July, our members have worked tirelessly to support veterans, military families, and our local community through a variety of meaningful events and activities. Every gathering has reflected our commitment to honoring those who have served while strengthening the bonds that unite our community.

Highlights of our summer was the tremendous success of our 3rd Annual AMVETS Post 44 Fish Fry. The event welcomed a wonderful turnout from veterans, families, friends, and community supporters, creating an atmosphere of fellowship and appreciation. Thanks to the hard work of our dedicated volunteers and the enthusiastic participation of our guests, the Fish Fry was one of our most successful events to date.

The Back-2-School Initiative, sponsored by our own LaKisha Clarke, Founding Director & CEO, Kids Sew Genius Foundation, Inc. and wife of AMVET L. Clarke.

In Mrs. Clarke’s own words,

Thank you Mrs. Clarke for your acknowledgment: AMVETS Post 44 remains committed to creating opportunities that bring people together while continuing to advocate for and serve our nation’s veterans and communities. We are proud of everything we have accomplished over the past two months and look forward to building on this momentum with even more exciting events in the months to come. Thank you for standing with AMVETS Post 44 as we continue to serve those who have so faithfully served our country.

On behalf of our Commander and Executive Staff and AMVETS members, we’d like to congratulate our Adjutant, Dylester Scott; on a happy birthday in July and being selected as the Department of AMVETS Adjutant of The Year 2025-2026!

Enjoy the pics and we will see you soon!

As we continue to enjoy and make the best of 2026, may we be reminded to keep Love at the forefront of all we do.  Kindness is an Action Word of an intentional act.  Help those who are less fortunate, treat all people with respect and give more, its a great feeling!

AMVETS Post 44 (Willie Weatherly), has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the principle of “Veterans Helping Veterans,” actively participating in and supporting a wide range of military and non-military events that uplift not only veterans, but also the broader community. Throughout the past year, members of Post 44 have devoted countless hours volunteering at veteran-focused initiatives such as resource fairs, stand-down events for homeless veterans, and hospital visitation programs, ensuring that those who have served our nation receive the care, recognition, and assistance they deserve. Whether organizing donation drives for essential items like clothing, food, and hygiene products, or providing direct support through mentorship and advocacy, the Post has remained deeply rooted in its mission.

Ultimately, the collective efforts of AMVETS Post 44 exemplify what it means to live out the motto “Veterans Helping Veterans.” Through consistent engagement in both military and non-military events, our Post has built a reputation as a reliable and compassionate force within the community. Its members understand that service does not end with military duty, but rather continues through acts of kindness, leadership, and advocacy. By supporting fellow veterans, uplifting community partners, and honoring the legacy of those who served, AMVETS Post 44 remains a pillar of strength and a beacon of hope. Our work not only addresses immediate needs but also inspires future generations to carry forward the values of service, sacrifice, and unity, ensuring that the mission of helping veterans and strengthening communities endures for years to come.

We welcome new visitors, old members and those curious to visit during one of our membership meetings.  We meet once a month usually the second Saturday.  Come on out and see why we are the best of the best!

Please continue to keep the Thomas family and us in prayer.  We loss a valued life-time member, our beloved Patricia A. Thomas in March, she was a devoted member, activist and leader.  Pat spear-headed our annual fish fry as well as other events.  We will miss her so much.  We love you Pat!

Please enjoy viewing our photos!

In December 2025, AMVETS Post 44 proudly volunteered their time to support veterans and families in their community. Members participated in local toy drives to help ensure children had gifts for the holidays. They also spread cheer by singing Christmas carols at the VA Center in Decatur, GA. In addition, the post hosted a Christmas brunch that brought everyone together in a warm, festive atmosphere. The event was attended by over 50 members, veterans, and family friends, celebrating service, unity, and the spirit of the season.

Toys For Tots with AMVET members!

Wife of our AMVETS member Lonney Clarke, Mrs. LaKisha Clarke, Founding Director & CEO of Kids Sew Genius Foundation, Inc., held their 6th Annual Winter Community event hosted by Kids Sew Genius Foundation and Kisha’s Community Closet.  Seven  (7), days of giving which consisted of several popup giveaways in the Dekalb community, Senior Living Center in Stone Mtn. (Gifts were provided to senior citizens to present to their grandchildren). Angel Tree provided resources to several underserved youth.  Thanks to our wonderful partners, (AMVETS), the event was able to provide resources to more than 700 youth and their families.

As Historian and Public Relations Officer, I’d like to express a thank you to my AMVETS Post 44 Organization for over 5 years of membership association.  It has been absolutely honoring.  I’d also like to thank my son and daughter in law, for their participation in Veterans activities, participating in the event at the Delaware Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery.

Wreaths Across American in remembrance of our Heros who gave the ultimate sacrifice to this great country and nation.

As we close out 2025, we wish everyone a joyful and meaningful end to the year.
May the final days be filled with peace, gratitude, and time shared with loved ones.
Looking ahead, we hope 2026 brings renewed strength, opportunity, and success.
Here’s to greater prosperity, good health, and continued unity in the year to come.

Please Enjoy Our Best Of the Best – Photos for events in December!

Greetings All!

Welcome to October & November’s updates, tidbits & events!

The past two months have truly been super busy and we are honored to have participated in several local and  community events and local Veterans events.

May we take a moment to share in our sadness in the loss of our Immediate Past National Commander Horace Dale Johnson.

Horace  transitioned to glory on November 4, 2025.   Funeral services were held on Saturday, 22 November 2025, in Tampa, Florida.  

Horace was a wonderful christian brother whose legacy of integrity, compassion and honor was unmatched!  His presence will be missed throughout the state of Georgia and the entire AMVETS family.   Thanks be to God for a life well lived!

Horace Dale Johnson

December 17, 1949 – November 4, 2025

Horace Dale Johnson was born on December 17, 1949 to Horace and Iradean Gwin Johnson in Cleveland, Ohio. Horace was a proud soldier, devoted husband, loving father, beloved brother, respected family leader, and steadfast friend whose life was defined by service, loyalty, and joy.

A longtime resident of Riverview, Florida. Horace lived a life filled with purpose, devotion, and love. He found Christ at an early age and later became a member of the First Baptist Church of Progress Village where he was Baptized and later became a Deacon Board Member.

Horace honorably served his country for 21 years in the United States Army and the Army National Guard, rising through the ranks to become Sergeant Major—a testament to his leadership, dedication, and commitment to his fellow soldiers and country. His devotion to veterans continued long after his active duty; he most recently served as AMVETS Immediate Past National Commander, advocating tirelessly for the welfare and recognition of those who served.

Alongside his distinguished military career, Horace devoted 37 years to the United States Postal Service, where he earned the respect of his colleagues and rose to the esteemed position of Postmaster. Known for his integrity, discipline, and compassion, he left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of working with him. Horace’s commitment to service extended beyond his professional life, as he generously ministered, mentored, guided, and supported anyone fortunate enough to cross his path.

Beyond his career and public service, Horace lived life with warmth and enthusiasm. He loved playing bid whist with family and friends, and traveling the world on cruise ships with his beloved wife and life partner, Toni Johnson. A passionate supporter of Cleveland and Tampa sports teams, Horace cheered every game with the same heart and spirit he brought to every part of his life. Above all, he cherished sharing wisdom and laughter with his siblings, children and grandchildren—his greatest pride and joy.

Sergeant Major (Ret.) Horace Dale Johnson departed this life on November 4, 2025, at the age of 75, in a VA Hospital after a short battle with cancer. He leaves to mourn his passing his devoted

wife Toni of twenty seven years; his loving children Marilyn Holt, Tonia Holt Daniels (Donell), William Calhoun (Regina), Felicia Osei (Kingsley), Horace D Johnson, Willie Mann III, Jamie Johnson of, Michelle McLendon (Keith) and Tonya Boudreaux, sisters Almaree Banks, Joanne Johnson, Winifred Randolph (Donald), Frieda Johnson, brothers Robert Kidd (Lydia), Delbert Johnson, Kevin Johnson (Anita), Karnell Johnson of Cleveland, Ohio; Gary Johnson (Punkin) of Cleveland, Ohio; and Bobby Johnson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Horace Johnson Sr and Iradean Gwin Woodson, sisters Mary Johnson and Linda Johnson; brothers James Johnson and Lonnie Johnson.

Horace is also survived by a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces, cousins, in-laws, and life-long friends.

Horace’s legacy will live on in the hearts of all those who were blessed to know him. His strength, humor, and unwavering love for family and country will never be forgotten.

Our October monthly meeting was well attended. We had several visitors.

Bobby Rand, AMVETS Life Member, and VBAATLD, was our guest speaker.  Amvet Rand discussed in great detail the VA Pension Program. Here’s some highlights:

The Pension Program is different than the compensation program.
The Pension Program is designed for Veterans who served during a war time period, but you can
get benefits prior to age 65.
Service Requirements:
Discharged from service under other than dishonorable conditions.
Served 90 days or more of active duty with at least one day during a period of war.

Age / Disability
Age 65 or older OR
Permanently and totally disabled (not due to own personal misconduct OR
Patient in a nursing home receiving skilled nursing care OR

Receiving Social Security disability benefits
Your pension is based on your income and net worth. There are limitations.
Your spouse and children can also qualify for pension, but there is a criteria they must meet.
For unmarried surviving spouse, spouse must meet all of the qualifications. For unmarried children, the parent must have met all of the Veteran Service qualifications, the
child must be under the age of 18 or under the age of 23 attending a VA approved school. If a
child us in college and the Veteran qualifies for the Pension Program, the child can apply for
pension benefits. It’s not a large sum of money, but it is something that they can get and can be
used to purchase books. When you receive your pension there’s a note in the letter that tells you if your income changes or your dependency you must report it. You can be penalized for not reporting.
You have basic pension, and you have pension with aid and attendance. Aid and Attendance mean
you must have the assistance of another person or so incapacitated you cannot feed, bathe, clothe,
or protect yourself from the elements. That will qualify you for a higher pension. A form must be
completed by a doctor stating you are in that condition.

AMVETS

Post 911 Standdown

We enjoyed fellowship with the AMVETS Post 911 on Saturday, October 4, as they provided local veteran & civilian resources to their local community.

Veterans Day and the weeks prior were filled with giving back to our Veterans and Community.

Greetings AMVETS Members,

September was an eventful month,  Here’s a summary of highlights:

Patriot Day is observed every year to commemorate the victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. 

This day was a National Day of Service and Remembrance, honoring the nearly 3,000 lives lost and the heroes who responded to the tragedy.

Key Aspects of Patriot Day:

• Date: September 11th, annually.
• Purpose: To remember and honor the victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
• Service: It is also designated as a National Day of Service and Remembrance, encouraging acts of volunteerism and community service.
• Observances: On Patriot Day, the U.S. flag is flown at half-staff, and a moment of silence is observed at 8:46 a.m. EDT to mark the time the first plane struck the World Trade Center.
• Sept. 18, 2025 – Air Force Birthday
• Sept. 19, 2025 – POW/MIA Recognition Day
• Sept. 29, 2025 – Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day – A day to honor the families of fallen Servicemembers.

National Suicide Prevention Month took place throughout September to raise awareness about suicide as a serious public health issue. The observance seeks to remember those lost, support survivors, and encourage proactive prevention efforts. It is supported by mental health advocates, prevention organizations, and communities nationwide.

Key dates during National Suicide Prevention Month.

• World Suicide Prevention Day: On September 10, people around the world unite to raise awareness about suicide and remember those affected.
• National Suicide Prevention Week: This was observed during the first full week of September.
• 988 Day: Held annually on September 8 to raise awareness and promote the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
  

George Hardy, Tuskegee Airman Who Fought in Three Wars, Passes at age 100 on September 25, 2025

At 19, he was one of the youngest pilots in the all-Black unit to see combat in World War II. “I used to say the Army’s No. 1 job was segregation,” he said. “Winning the war was No. 2.”

George Hardy in 1944 in his graduation picture from the aviation cadet training program at the Tuskegee Army Air Field in Alabama. In addition to 21 combat missions during World War II, he flew 45 missions in the Korean War and 70 in the Vietnam War.Credit…U.S. Army Air Forces.

Colonel Hardy, a Philadelphia native, was 19 and had never even driven a car when he began aviation cadet training in September 1944 at Tuskegee Army Air Field in Alabama. By early the next year, in the closing months of the war in Europe, then-Second Lieutenant Hardy was assigned to an Army Air Forces base in Italy, from which he flew 21 missions accompanying bombers to their targets over southern Germany in early 1945.

One of our own, AMVET Belinda Boldoe (AMVETS Post 44 – State Service Officer), was selected to receive a prestigious award from the Veterans of Foreign of Wars.  The Veterans of Foreign War 2024-2025 John A. Biedrzycki Accredited Service Representative of the Year Award. 

VFW Presents Acclaimed John A. Biedrzycki Award

Army veteran selected as VFW Accredited Service Representative of the Year

COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) has selected Army Desert Storm Veteran Belinda Boldoe as its 2024-2025 John A. Biedrzycki Accredited Service Representative of the Year. Awarded annually, the Biedrzycki Award is presented to a VFW Accredited Service Officer who has demonstrated exceptional achievements in support of the VFW’s veterans’ service mission and related programs.

“Service to veterans is as ingrained in the VFW as the word veteran,” said VFW National Commander Al Lipphardt. “Every day, our global cadre of accredited representatives works tirelessly to ensure our government Honors the Contract and this award, which Belinda Boldoe so rightfully deserves, exemplifies and honors the very best of the best.”

Boldoe, who serves as both the Georgia Department of Veterans Service Appeals Officer and VFW Department of Georgia Service Officer among other roles, assisted more than 2,500 veterans and family members and facilitated the recovery of more than $800,000 in veterans benefits in 2024. A resident of Stone Mountain, Georgia, she is highly regarded by her colleagues, clients and comrades for her professionalism, technical expertise and genuine, honest and teamwork-oriented nature.

VFW Accredited Service Officers are legally recognized and authorized by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to prepare, present and prosecute VA benefits claims. Importantly, VA-accredited representatives never charge for assistance with VA disability compensation claims. In 2024 alone, the VFW’s Accredited Service Officer network has secured more than $14.6 billion in compensation and pension on behalf of veterans and eligible family members, and every dollar has gone to beneficiaries.

“It is always an honor to recognize a professionally trained, VFW Accredited Service Officer who exemplifies our values in every action she takes on behalf of the veterans, family members and survivors we represent,” said VFW National Veterans Service Director Mike Figlioli. “Belinda consistently delivers results not only for the Georgia Department of Veterans Service, but for the entire VFW. It is only fitting that we take the time to recognize her achievements and dedication.”

Originally from Washington, D.C., Boldoe served in the United States Army for more than 11 years as a signal communication officer, earning her VFW eligibility during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Throughout her Army career, she held several critical positions including company commander, theater communication manager during Desert Shield and Desert Storm, and project manager for testing and procuring new Signal Corps equipment.

“It is truly an honor to be selected as the John A. Biedrzycki Accredited Service Representative of the Year for 2024-2025,” said Boldoe. “This is not a job for me; this is my heavenly assignment from my Lord and Savior to take care of his people.”

Boldoe maintains her Bronze Legacy Life membership at Henry County GA VFW Post 12180 in Stockbridge, Georgia, where she serves as the Post quartermaster. She has two children — one of whom she is proud to call a fellow VFW member.

WE WELCOME OUR NEWEST MEMBERS!
Shanell Mitchell – Lifetime Member – USMC, William Partee – Joined last month (August 2025) and Jerold Davis (USAF).

AMVET Arthurine Wright was honored with a certificate and a plaque for winning the Post 3rd & 4th Quarters Recruiting Awards and Recruiter of the Year Award – Charles Wyatt’s recruiting efforts.

This is an annual award (01 September 2024 – 31 August 2025). The award will be placed on our wall.

AMVETS NATIONAL CONVENTION 2025, GREENBORO, NC. – COMMANDER’S GALA BANQUET

EXPO AT GREENFORREST CHURCH

 

The month of August was a busy month: A few observances included:

AMVETS National Convention was held on 20-23 August in Greensboro, N.C.
Our Commander, A. Wiggs & 1st Vice Commander, Roy Montgomery were in attendance representing our organization.

National Purple Heart Day (August 7, 2025): A day to honor service members wounded or killed in military service.

National Airborne Day (August 16, 2025): Honors the nation’s airborne forces.

We had a good productive general membership meeting as well.
On Saturday, August 9, 2025, it was a pleasure to see several new guests, who hopefully enjoyed the meeting and will soon become members!

Our guest speaker for our meeting was SSG April Stallings-Suarez who delivered an impeccable and informative presentation. SSG Stallings-Suarez was formerly an active duty Soldier stationed in Fort Irwin, CA, she completed various tours of duty and served her military contract until it ended. She rejoined in the status of Army Reserve Soldier. She is currently a representative for the Veterans Care International (VCA). https://veteranscareinternational.com/, as well as being a successful entrepreneur and certified Veterans Administration Medical Provider. (See Bio below).

SSG – APRIL STALLINGS-SUAREZ IS A MEMBER OF THE U.S. ARMY RESERVE.
SHE PREVIOUSLY SERVED ON ACTIVE DUTY AND HAS HAD MANY OVERSEAS ASSIGNMENTS.
BORN IN EDISON, NJ, SSG SUAREZ, HAS DEDICATED HERSELF TO THE FIELD OF HEALTHCARE, HER AREAS OF EXPERTISE ARE SPORTS THERAPY, AND MEDICAL MASSAGE TO NAME A FEW.
SSG SUAREZ HOLDS A BACHELOR OF SCIENCE DEGREE IN HUMAN PERFORMANCE AND SPORTS SCIENCE; OBTAINED FROM TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY.
SHE EMBARKED ON A TRANSFORMATIVE JOURNEY THROUGH THE HALLS OF DAYMAR INSTITUTE MEDICAL MASSAGE SCHOOL IN THE ART OF MEDICAL MASSAGE.
SSG SUAREZ ALSO HOLDS A MASTER OF SCIENCE DEGREE IN HEALTHCARE ADMINISTRATION.
SHE IS CURRENTLY A PHD CANDIDATE (EXERCISE & SPORTS SCIENCE),
AND IS A REFERRED MEDICAL PROVIDER WITHIN THE VA.
SSG SUAREZ IS THE FOUNDER & CEO OF Body and Soul Sports Massage Therapy, LLC, IN STOCKBRIDGE, GA.
SSG SUAREZ IS MARRIED TO HER AMAZING HUSBAND CARLOS WHO IS ALSO A MILITARY SOLDIER AND THE APPLE OF THEIR EYES, LIL OLIVIA, THEIR BEAUTIFUL DAUGHTER.
SSG SUAREZ TAKES PRIDE IN SERVING HER FELLOW VETERANS IN PROVIDING THEM WITH THE HEALTHCARE THEY DESERVE AND EARNED.

SHOUT OUT!
The women of AMVETS are very multi-talented ladies! As they say in the Army! “We get more things done in 8 hours, than most people do all day”! Our Commander, A. Wiggs, is one of those exceptional women, who practices what she preaches!
This songbird recently delivered a beautiful solo (with her choir) at Greenforrest Baptist church in Decatur, GA. The sanctuary was filled with praises and worship during the Sunday service. Commander Wiggs, thank you for your leadership and blessings!

Thank You Sir and Best Wishes As You Continue In Your Future Endeavors!

*Video courtesy of
AMVETS Nat'l Organization

Can you believe that we’re in the 7 month of the year? With only  5 months until December! Time surely moves quickly!

July holds a significant place in military history with events like the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the sinking of the USS Indianapolis, and the establishment of the U.S. Naval Academy. Other notable events include the establishment of the U.S. Army Air Corps and the WAVES, as well as the beginning of Operation Crossroads, an atomic weapons test. 

Some of our members shared and spent time celebrating the 4th of July, which we all know is our wonderful independence to this great nation! Whether you participated in patriotic events, or Bar-B-Q’d spending time with friends and family, we hope that you enjoyed your 4th!

It was fun joining our comrade, Jim Closs (AMVET member/Sr. Vice Commander, VFW Post 5290), Conyers, GA  and AMVET Bobby Rand and his lovely wife, as we enjoyed the various foods, music and comradiere of family & friends!

And the amazing fireworks! What a grand display by the members of VFW Post 5290, on those fireworks!

Guest Speaker: AMVET Elaine Edwards, COL (Ret), U.S. Army:

• I wrote a book called Lift Every Voice. I start each chapter off with a Negro Spiritual. To me it was very appropriate to start each chapter with a Negro Spiritual.  Negro Spirituals speak to us about our lives, experiences, and how we express ourselves.
• I will discuss why I wrote the book, how I wrote the book, tell something about the story, and how you can write your story.
• I went to the AL Archives in Montgomery, AL and local libraries in Marengo County, the area I was studying. In the genealogy section of the library there’s nothing in there on Black Families in Marengo County.  That’s a big void, because that’s where my family came from.  I saw books on early AL Settlers, but I didn’t see anything about Black Families in that community.  So, I set out to feel that void.
• How did I do that? In 1988, I was stationed at Fort McPherson, GA.  I went to the GA Archive.  In 2011 I retired.  In 2012 I became a care giver.  My Mom tells me various stories.  The ideal came to me to connect her story to my ancestor (Jackson Rembert).  The story starts off in 1830 when Jackson Rembert is born.  My ancestors came South Carolin and travelled to Alabama.  The connection of my mother’s stories back to Jackson. That’s what the book covers.  It took me two (2) years from 2023 to 2024 writing this book, 2025 working on refining the book and working with a publisher to refine it and working with my editor getting it hone down. Scheduled to be published in the fall.
• How to write about people you never met and no one you know knows them. How do you create that story?  You create your story from newspaper articles, census, and other documents.  You get with people who are living, they know people who have already died, and you make that connection.
• How can you tell your story? You can have someone interview you based on the questions I’m going to send you digitally.
• Elaine had her display of references, list of genealogy groups you can join in your area. “Cast down your bucket where you”.
• I told you why I wrote the book, how I wrote the book, a little bit about the book, and how you can write your story.
• A percentage of my proceeds will go to Post 44 and a discount to anyone interested in purchasing the book.

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AMVETS State Executive Convention was held on 20-22 June, at Warner Robins, GA.

• Commander Arnetha Wiggs
• 1st Vice Commander Roy Montgomery
• Judge Advocate Albert Wright
• Post Mental Health Coordinator Arthurine Wright
• Quartermaster Evans Dowdy
• Provost Marshal Arthur Long & Mrs. Long

Bobby Rand (Lifetime Member), and others, joined the event and attended the gala evening affair.

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RED SHIRT FRIDAY (Remembering Everyone Deployed)
Thanks to everyone who wore their RED Shirt! Where Them Shirts At!

 
Photography/Videography – Dazz Media Services
Contributor: D. Scott (Adjutant)