Joint Conferences of Ukrainian American Organizations

Ukrainian American Veterans board meets to plan strategy

by Stephen M. Wichar Sr.
Special to The Ukrainian Weekly

ARLINGTON, Va. - When the Joint Conferences of Ukrainian American Organizations announced their program in all the Ukrainian news media, the Ukrainian American Veterans seized the opportunity to enhance their political position in order to secure federal legislation pertaining to the UAV's attainment of a national charter.

By securing such a document, the UAV would succeed in having many veterans' benefits extended to all veterans of Ukrainian ancestry who fought in the U.S. armed forces.

Convening a national executive board meeting of the UAV during the "Synergy" convocation had its advantages. Veterans who participated in the congressional reception on June 24, were able to meet and talk with political figures who were the principal speakers at the event, thus lobbying for a national charter.

Other matters of significance during the executive session held on June 26, was the establishment of new posts, such as those recently founded in Yonkers, N.Y., and Northport, Fla. Steps were also taken by UAV officials to reactivate Post 29 in Washington, but these were temporarily shelved because the existing leadership was engaged in the Kosovo conflict.

Stephen Wichar, the UAV's public relations and publicity officer, arranged a tour of the White House and Capitol via Rep. David Bonior (D-Mich.) for the Michigan delegation. A private meeting was also held in Mr. Bonior's Minority Whip office, where the Michigan congressman promised to give the national charter his immediate and personal attention.

During lunch at the Congressional Dining Hall, Mr. Wichar met with Rep. Charles Rangel (D-N.Y.), who stated that he would support the UAV's drive for a national charter.

The UAV also arranged to have an informational display booth during the Joint Conferences' Saturday evening gala, the cocktail hour, banquet and ball. The attractive stand featured interesting handouts, a display of post and national flags, and a veteran on duty at all times to answer queries from visitors.

Steven Szewczuk, national commander of UAV, stated that he was pleased with the goals achieved by national executive board members during the Joint Conferences. "I believe this project was long overdue," Mr. Szewczuk stated, "and certainly more interaction is needed between the professionals and non-professionals alike."

"Perhaps the leaders can assure Ukrainians everywhere that this alliance will bring about some new goals and act on common-ground issues that are important to all," he added.

Copyright © The Ukrainian Weekly, July 11, 1999, No. 28, Vol. LXVII

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