Page 19 - Fall 2021 SARIZONA

Veterans Committee Update
There have been changes to the SAR Veterans Committee this year. The Veterans Committee now includes two sub committees, Patriot Outreach and Operation Ancestor Search that were full committees previously.
The Veterans Committee still has oversight over the Stark Memorial Award program. I want to thank the chapters that submitted a form for 2020. I made sure that all received were submitted. The effort paid off with Arizona winning the First place for state membership of 500 to 1000. There will be a revised Stark form for 2021. Several of the sections have been changed. So, chapters and individuals need to ensure they use the new form when it comes out.
I am asking that all of our members try to
do something for veterans this year. I know that COVID-19 has made it difficult to get out and attend events. But there is still Veterans Day, and Wreaths Across America coming up. In the new Stark Form you get credit for placing a wreath or flag on a Vet’s grave, plus mileage. VA facilities are always accepting cash or check donations. You get credit for attending a Vet’s funeral, whether it is a family member or someone else.
Each chapter needs to have a point of contact for its Veteran Program. Let the AZ SAR Veteran Committee Chair know who that is. He is automatically a member of the state committee. For now I am filling that position, but I would ask for a volunteer to take over next year.
Stephen Miller,
AZSSAR Veterans Committee Chair
It’s time to focus on the USS Stark Memorial Award
The reporting period for the USS Stark Award competition is January 1 through December 31 of the previous year. Chapter activities are to be recorded by each Chapter Veterans Committee Chairman on the USS Stark Award Scoring Sheet (available on the SAR website) and submitted according to the instructions on the Scoring Sheet, with a copy sent to the State-level Society Veterans Committee Chairman Steve Miller by January 15. Chairman Miller will consolidate all chapter reports to compile a society report, using the same Scoring Sheet, and submit a report to the SAR Veterans Committee Chairman and Executive Director
not later than February 1 of each year.
Each submitter (chapter or society) may be requested to substantiate some categories. The SAR Veterans Committee will judge the submissions to determine winners at the SAR Spring Leadership Conference. Those needing assistance with the USS Stark Memorial Award scoring sheet may consult the activity tracking sheet, however, the only official entry form is the
USS Stark Memorial Award scoring sheet.
If you have questions about this or any other Veterans Committee activities contact Arizona SAR Veterans Committee Chair Stephen Miller
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