Eclipse Magazine - Produced by NABVETS 2015 First Edition | Page 7

Letter from The Editor-in-Chief
Alvin C. Fagan
Editor in Chief, NABVETS
Eclipse Magazine
NABVETS Members & Readers,
There is a common thread that runs throughout this edition. From our cover story on the
iconic U.S. Congressman and decorated Korean War hero Charles Rangel to the NABVETS
Eclipse internet-radio station and the NABVETS Chapters and their members reaching out
to Veterans in their communities across the nation, they all have something in common…
“Veterans helping Veterans.” From housing for homeless Veterans and providing assistance with education and preparation
for gaining employment through partnerships with organizations and educational institutions to the Certified Veterans Service
Officers (VSOs) assisting Veterans across the nation with their VA claims and helping them to receive the benefits they have earned,
NABVETS makes a difference in thousands of Veterans’ lives and communities every day. You will see highlighted just a few of the
many ways that Veterans are helping Veterans through NABVETS and working to fulfill its mission of creating positive lifestyles
for fellow Veterans.
The hand writing is on the wall. It is imperative that NABVETS continue to strive to meet the needs of our Veterans through
programs like those highlighted in this edition and the many other services NABVETS provides. The number of Veterans that have
served our country and are now homeless, or on the brink of being homeless, and Veterans seeking their earned benefits that are
turned away or stuck in “limbo” due to paperwork issues continues to rise and a disproportionate number of which are minority and
African American Veterans. NABVETS is dedicated to making a difference in these circumstances and to fulfilling its commitment
to Veterans by serving Veterans, their families, at-risk youth, and the communities in which they live through many forms of
services and outreaches.
NABVETS also strives to shine a light on the service and sacrifice of those that have come before and served our country with honor,
courage and valor, many times without recognition and in spite of unfair and prejudicial treatment. Although African Americans
have an impressive resume’, having served with honor and distinction, the recognition for their service and sacrifice is in large part
missing from that resume’. On days of remembrance, from Memorial Day to Veterans Day, as all of the nation remembers, honors
and thank our Veterans, there are many that are sadly unaware of the sacrifice that has been made by African Americans in every
military action and war since the inception of our great nation.
As you view the features on the heroes and heroines featured in this edition, including the foot soldiers of Selma and the first African
American Navy Seal/Frogman EN2 Fred Morrison, join us in taking a moment to honor and remember all those who came before
and paved the way, in both the military and civilian life, for us today.
In closing, I would like to thank you for your many comments, suggestions and words of encouragement. Please continue to use
your voice to make our collective voice stronger. By joining together in the spirit of “Veterans helping Veterans” we can, and are,
making a difference.
Yours in service,

Alvin C. Fagan

National Jr Vice-Commander, Communications
Editor in Chief, NABVETS Eclipse Magazine
Commander, NABVETS Texas Sate Command
Office: (210) 662 - 4744

NABVETS Eclipse Magazine 2015 First Edition

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