Andy and I attended the Operation T.A.S.K. Force in Tallmadge on 21 February. The host was the Alpha 11 Veterans Service Organization (VSO).
There were about 50 persons attending, and I estimate they represented about 30 VSOs and other organizations, like the League of Women Voters.
The website for the host is Alpha 11 Veterans if you want to take a look. There were four meetings last year and this is the first for 2026.
Chuck Auker was there for the Vietnam Veterans, and Sandy Conley for the Stark County SAM Center.
The microphone was passed around and each organization presented what they did.
Direction Home to assist vets living under bridges, etc. Home repair for vets who either cannot pay or are incapable of fixing their home. Legal services for vets.
Discussion on guide/service dogs. Warriors Journey Home. Kent State services for vets for getting a degree. The Alpha 11 group is setting up a program called The Quartermaster. There is a need for furniture, kitchen pots and pans, tableware, etc. One group does nursing home visits to vets. A North American Indian Cultural Center representative introduced his group. A mortgage company said all mortgage firms are working on making it easier for vets to get VA loans and move into their own homes. They are at http://www.exmortgage.com, if you know of any vets trying to get a home.
We do assist at the Standdown for Summit County, and our JROTC/ROTC banquet, and the Veterans Day at the Firestone Golf Club. I will make
contact with the organizations to see what we (YOU!) could offer. Maybe drive someone to a doctor’s appointment? I used our roll up banner and passed out our OWRC business cards. We may get some feedback on our website.
We are expected to help our fellow vets and those now in military service. More ideas to come as I explore this avenue.
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Wishing everyone a Happy Saint Patrick’s Day on Tuesday March 17. We will have our regular luncheons at Michael’s A.M. each Wednesday.
The Old Farmer’s Almanac says it will be a normal (wintry) March, as far as the weather. So drive safe!
Respectfully,
Major William J. Maki, USAF (Ret)
OWRC President