By Joe Palumbo
There were parades for the vets of World War I, World War II and the Korean War, but there was no big cheering section when the Vietnam vets came home. Many returned while the war was still in progress, only to be shunned by anti-war demonstrators.
Slowly and steadily Vietnam vets began to organize, said Pat Toro, president of Chapter #32 of the Vietnam Veterans of America at 88-61 76th Ave. in Glendale. No one wanted these vets, said Toro, who added that today the Vietnam Veterans of America is the only veteran organization chartered by Congress, with headquarters in Silver Springs, Md.
It was tough at the organization’s beginning, Toro said. Members had their meetings in basements, at VFW locations and even at the St. James church. Toro was quite proud of their new exclusive location, first occupied in July 2001. With a membership 245 strong and still growing, and the average age being between 47 and 65, members are quite diversified in both occupational and ethnic backgrounds.
Vietnam Veterans of America’s revenue comes from grants, minimal dues and voluntary donations from which it is able to meet its annual budget. And what does this budget cover besides general rental overhead? The organization gives free computer classes three times a week, supplies food and extends Christmas parties to homeless vets, distributes free Thanksgiving turkeys to families in need, and greatly supports HOUR, a program which provides children of returning incarcerated mothers with clothing, presents and Christmas parties.
Vietnam Veterans of America also serves as a vital link to veterans awareness programs. For example, all diabetic Vietnam veterans are eligible for disability benefits, Toro said, expressing appreciation for our wonderful state senators and assembly members who have been there for the veterans.
With tears in his eyes, Toro added, “Soon we will be handicap accessible [it’s a long flight of stairs to the VVA office] due to a $50,000 grant which we are receiving due to the efforts of state Sen. [Serphin] Maltese.”
I am proud of Toro and his entire staff because I too am a Vietnam veteran. So how’s business at the VVA? Quite well in view of its fine ability of properly balancing costs with revenue and not skimping on it, either. Although the organization’s length of life will be limited to the oldest surviving Vietnam vet, expectations are for a very healthy lifespan.
Joe Palumbo is the fund manager for The Palco Group, Inc. and can be reached at palcogroup@aol.com or 1-718-461-8317.
