Nancy Stutman

On Sunday, Feb. 20, Jewish War Veterans (JWV) Copper State Post 619 welcomes Master Sergeant Fred Driver of the Junior ROTC program at Hamilton High School in Chandler. Since 2003, Driver has been teaching Aerospace Science and leading the Junior ROTC program there, including honor guards, honorary graduates, and, until recently, the Adopt-A-Highway program when a lack of funding caused issues.

Post 619 has, in turn, come to the aid of the ROTC program in years past. When the program lacked funds to procure drill rifles, the Post purchased several to ensure our drill team could compete in an upcoming event. When the Air Force authorized battle uniforms for cadets, they didn’t authorize additional funding, resulting in a need for boots. Post 619 then purchased 15 pairs of boots for the unit.

MSgt. Driver will discuss what the Junior ROTC program is and isn’t, including their mission statement and national and community responsibility. He will also discuss the Jewish War Veterans’ tie-in and JROTC support for funerals, graduation escorts, honor guards, speaking engagements, and the former Adopt-A-Highway program.

The February meeting will be virtual. Everyone is welcome to attend by signing into Zoom on Sunday Feb. 20, at 10 a.m. To join the Zoom meeting, go to: https://bit.ly/34NLvua. The Post is looking forward to resuming in-person meetings in Sun Lakes once it is safe to do so again. In the meantime, we continue to support many of the 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organizations that help our veterans.

Jewish War Veterans, the oldest active national veterans’ organization in continuous operation in America, is made up of members who are veterans and patrons who support the JWV mission to aid homeless, hospitalized, and at-risk veterans. Post 619 represents a wide range of religious affiliations. Support is provided to Arizona veterans of all religions and beliefs.

Recently, the Post held an online auction to raise funds for veterans experiencing homelessness. They also participate in philanthropic activities at the various 501(c)(3) veterans’ facilities and organizations that help Jewish and non-Jewish veterans. This is accomplished with funds earned by conducting Poppy Drives at supermarkets and the Mesa Market Place throughout the year.

For more information, visit copperstatepost619.com. Meetings are held the third Sunday of the month, September through May, and feature speakers focused on supporting veterans. For additional information about JWV activities or membership, please contact Jr. Vice Commander Elliott Reiss at 480-802-3281 or [email protected].