The Graybeards - KWVA - Korean War Veterans Association

Officers 2004, right to left President Bob Balzer, 1st Vice President Charles
Carafano, 2nd Vice President Don Smith,, Treasurer Frank Nicolo and
Secretary Ed Brandt.
Union County KWVA Chapter #53 of New
Jersey
On July 27, 1989, at the Sheraton National Hotel in Arlington,
Virginia, 15 Korean War veterans from New Jersey, signed a petition
for a chapter charter. The New Jersey Chapter’s list of officers
included Ed Hoth, Joe Poggi, Vic Gerst, Richie Alexander,
Tag Jensen, and Bill Cavanaugh. Membership in the first New
Jersey Chapter grew rapidly, causing the need to form additional
chapters.
At present time there are 16 chapters that make up the
Department of New Jersey. Chapter 53, led by Commander
Richie Alexander, has focused its mission on volunteer work at
the New Jersey Home For Disabled Veterans at Menlo Park.
“There’s nothing more satisfying, than to get a smile on some of
those faces at the veteran’s home”, says Commander Alexander.
We do a monthly bingo with cash prizes and refreshments and do
special parties for the holidays. This past Christmas, every veteran
at the home received an envelope containing cash that they
could use at the commissary shop. Chapter 53 also provides a
variety of entertainment.
Officers Ladies Aux #153 Left to right President Pat Marinelli, 1st Vice
President Pat Batissa, 2nd Vice President Bev McKay, Secretary Helen
Saccente, Chaplain Fran Nicolo, Historian-Trustee Mary Gaffney.
The newly constructed New Jersey Home For disabled Veterans at Menlo
Park. Chapter 53 works here year around.
American Legion Post #127 – Commander’s Ball – President and Past
President honored. (Thank you Charles Carafano for letter and photos.)
Chapter Commander Richie Alexander presents a gift of appreciation to
volunteer John Nagy, who has performed at the last 9 chapter Christmas
parties at the veterans home.
May/June, 2004 Page 53