Service Member's Corner

June 2024 Update

A big shout out to the Cathay Post #186 members and their supporters.

I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter celebration.

March is a time of transition and transformation. We shake off Winter and welcome the coming of Spring. 

For the Post, we had a number of events and are preparing for many.  We welcomed new members and will be saying goodbye to another.

Our mission includes supporting veterans.  Not all of our Vietnam War era veterans received the honor and respect due them.  This month we recognized members who served during the Vietnam War, and for those who went to war, we welcomed them home.

Next month in May, we will be honoring our fallen military members on Memorial Day.  We invite everyone to the ceremony at Hing Hay Park hosted by Cathay Post #186.

Additionally, we continue to support our youth through academic scholarships, and sponsoring five contestants to the Washington State High School Oratorical Speech Contest. In June we will help develop our future leaders by sending high school delegates to the Evergreen Boys State event.

I stated earlier that we were saying farewell to a longtime supporter of our Post.  Many of you know Aunty Lilyan Leong, wife of Navy veteran James “Jimmie” Leong.  Sadly, she passed away.  She was a fixture at our meetings.  We will miss her kindness and graciousness.  A memorial service will be held on April 22nd.

Mark your calendars for our next monthly meeting at the NVC Memorial Hall.  We’ll have two presentations on programs supporting veterans: the Alaska Airlines Fallen Soldier Program and the Puget Sound Honor Flight.  You don’t want to miss these talks.

 

Lastly, at our April meeting, We will present a 'slate of officers' for nomination.  If you are interested in serving or nominating someone, please don't hesitate to contact one of the officers today.  

 

See you at the April 24th Meeting.


Robert “Bob” Dela-Cruz

1st Vice Commander

Aunty Lilyan Leong, a cherished guest at our post and a faithful attendee of all our meetings, has recently passed away.  Her late husband, James “Jimmie” Leong, was a U.S. Navy veteran and a dedicated lifetime member of Cathay Post #186.  We will deeply miss Aunty Lilyan's sweet spirit and her presence at our gatherings.  Her memorial service will be held on Monday, April 22, 2024, at 11:00 A.M. at the Butterworth Funeral Home at Mt Pleasant Cemetery.

Alaska Airlines Fallen Soldier Program and Puget Sound Honor Flight


Join us at our April meeting for a special presentation by two esteemed organizations who are dedicated to honoring our military and veterans: Alaska Airlines and the Puget Sound Honor Flight.  


Alaska Airlines salutes every individual who has served in the U.S. Military and their families, showing gratitude for their courage, sacrifices, and protection of our freedoms.  Discover how Alaska Airlines honors Fallen Soldiers and their families through initiatives like their specially painted jets, "Honoring Those Who Serve," and their Fallen Soldier Program, ensuring safe and dignified transportation for soldiers and their loved ones.

 

Learn about Puget Sound Honor Flight's mission to transport Western Washington veterans to Washington D.C. to visit memorials dedicated to their service and sacrifices.  Founded in 2013, Puget Sound Honor Flight has since taken over 1,500 local veterans from the WWII, Korean, and Vietnam service eras on meaningful trips, supported by dedicated volunteers and valuable partnerships.  


Don't miss this opportunity to hear inspiring stories and learn about the impactful work of these organizations and don't forget to invite your veteran friends and ROTC cadets as well.

 

CATHAY POST #186 APRIL MEETING

✯  Wednesday, April 24, 2024

✯  Potluck at 6:30 P.M.   ✯  Meeting starts around 7:15 P.M.

✯  Address:  NVC Memorial Hall, 1212 S. King Street, Seattle WA

✯  Email Adjutant Kent Wong for gate code access.  

Cathay Post #186 Orator Victorious in Department Contest


On Saturday, March 23, 2024, the Department of Washington crowned a new Department Champion for 2024!  Congratulations

 to Aubrey Jane Moore.  


Aubrey Jane will receive a $2,000 scholarship from the Department of Washington and an expenses paid trip to Hillsdale, Michigan in May to participate in the National Finals Contest where she will share in over $203,000 in scholarships to be awarded there.


Aubrey Jane is a homeschooled sophomore who was sponsored by Cathay Post #186.

Cathay Post 186 - Seattle, WA proudly sponsored a total of five high school students for the annual Washington High School Oratorical Contest, at Big Bend Community College at Moses Lake, WA.


The oratorical contest's purpose is to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the U.S. Constitution among the participants.


Post Commander Haydon Mar stated:  "Cathay Post 186 is committed to our youth and was able to sponsor 5 High school oratorical students along with the generous financial support of Post 1.   Kent and I were present to listen to the amazing speeches on the US constitution by 12 High school competitors.  Congratulation to everyone and Go AJ!"  


Our five high school students from left to right: Mateo Mar, Nathan Chen, Emma Lo, Lilah Moore, and Aubrey Jane (AJ) Moore.  Each of the orators performed in an outstanding manner. Their speeches reflected countless hours of research, writing, and practice.  


Congratulations to our post's sponsored finalists: Emma Lo from Sammamish, who will receive a $1,500 scholarship, and Aubrey Jane Moore from Renton, who will receive a $2,000 scholarship.


We wish Aubrey Jane the best as she advances to the National Finals Contest in May.

During our monthly post meeting on March 27, 2024, we honored all Vietnam Veterans in Cathay Post 186 - Seattle, WA. Each of our veterans who served during the Vietnam War period received a Vietnam Veteran lapel pin as a token of appreciation for their service and sacrifice.


Pictured (L-R): Frank Gregory (Post Chaplain - U.S. Navy), Debra Wood (District 1 Commander - U.S. Army), Robert Dela-Cruz (1st Vice Commander - U.S. Army), and Terry Nicholas (Past Post Commander - U.S.M.C.)


"A Grateful Nation Thanks and Honors You."

Election for the 2024-2025 Cathay Post #186 officers is right around the corner.  If you're interested in getting involved, please reach out to a current officer. 

Serving as an officer offers great opportunities for personal growth, community service, advocacy, networking, and the fulfillment of contributing to the Legion's overarching mission.  If you're passionate about making a positive impact, consider becoming part of our leadership team.


Please "Save the Date" for our Officers Installation Ceremony luncheon.  During this ceremony, we will proudly recognize our newly appointed officers, honor our scholarship recipients, oratorical contestants, and Boys State delegates, along with expressing our gratitude to all our valued partner organizations.  Please mark this important event on your calendars.

Introducing our new section, "Future Force" Spotlight, where we highlight the exceptional dedication and commitment of outstanding individuals who are destined for military service.  From ROTC Cadets to aspiring service members, we shine a spotlight on those who embody the values of leadership, service, and honor. 

Cadet Major Zach Dea


- Hazen High School, Renton, Washington 

- Bellevue College - Associate in Business 

- University of Washington - Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration  (currently studying) 

- Air Force ROTC, Detachment 910, University of Washington

- June 2025 - Projected Graduation and USAF Commissioning


Awards/Recognitions:

    •    Military Order of the World Wars Silver Medal of Merit

    •    AFROTC Commendation Award

    •    Warrior Spirit Award with two bronze oak leaf clusters

    •    Academic Honors Award with four bronze oak leaf clusters

    •    Michael P. Anderson Memorial Scholarship Recipient

    •    2019 NWAC Men’s Golf All-Conference Team


What inspired you to pursue a career in the military?

I have many family members in the military who inspire me, but I would say the person who inspired me the most is my Grandfather, Harry Dea. He was one of the first Chinese-American pilots to fly the P-51 Mustang for the U.S. Air Force. His story inspires me to leave an example for others that no matter what challenges you face, if you fight for your dream, you can achieve it.


What aspect of military service are you most looking forward to?

I am most looking forward to meeting new people. There are so many people in the Air Force from such different backgrounds and we’re all tied together by the commitment to serving our Country. I’m excited to discover the motivations that drive them in their service.


Are there any mentors or role models who have influenced your decision to join the military?

My family members, my Cadre, and the Veterans at Cathay Post #186, have not only influenced my decision to join the military, but have also given great advice and shaped how I want to conduct myself as a leader.


What advice would you give to other young individuals considering a career in the military?

I would tell them to find and live by their “why”. There are going to be many moments where you think about quitting or giving up. Your “why,” which could be things like legacy, family, or money, should be motivating enough where it pushes you to not just meet the standard, but surpass it.

Zach, We are very proud of you. Your dedication and commitment to your ROTC training and your aspirations for a future military career are inspiring.  Thank you for allowing us to spotlight remarkable young Americans like yourself, who embody the Air Force core values of Integrity, Service, and Excellence. 

✯✯✯✯✯



USCG Sector Puget Sound Tour

U.S. Coast Guard Sector Purget Sound is based at Pier 36 in Seattle less than 1.5 miles from the C-ID.  Sector Puget Sound’s vast geographic Area of Responsibility (AOR) adjacent to the Canadian border includes 10 ports and 12 counties with commercial maritime interests.  Sector Puget Sound’s AOR includes the three major commercial shipping ports of Seattle, Everett, and Tacoma. These three ports combined make up the 3rd largest shipping port in the U.S.  Deputy Sector Commander, Captain Mimi Moon has graciously extended an invitation for Cathay Post #186 members to tour their facilities.  We are currently in the process of coordinating this opportunity and will provide further details soon.

  

Memorial Day Ceremony - Hing Hay Park

As Memorial Day approaches, our Memorial Day Ceremony committee, led by Darsie Dela-Cruz, is actively planning the ceremony.  We extend an invitation to all our members and the community to join us at our Memorial Day ceremony, as we come together to remember and honor the sacrifices of our military war heroes.  Your presence and participation are deeply appreciated as we pay tribute to those who have served our nation and gave the ultimate sacrifice.  After the ceremony, around 5:30 P.M., we will be hosting a dinner at Tai Tung Chinese Restaurant for those who are able to attend.  The cost will be $25.00 per person.  Information on where to RSVP and make payment will be forthcoming.  Stay tuned for updates.



Department of Washington Weekly Operational Highlights Email

You can receive weekly Department of Washington operational news right in your email inbox. 


Renewing Your Membership

Thank you for renewing your membership by mailing in your check.  Did you know you can easily renew your membership at MyLegion.org?

  

MyLegion.org

MyLegion.org is a free and secure website for American Legion members to manage their membership profile.  For example, you can update your personal information, print your membership card, renew your annual dues.  Contact me if you need help setting up your MyLegion.org account.


How to Get My Membership Card

- Print a copy of your membership card directly from MyLegion.org

- Pick up your membership card at our monthly post meetings

- Email Adjutant Kent Wong and have a card mailed to you


American Legion Multiyear Membership

Our annual dues will increase this year.  You can lock in the current renewal rate and eliminate the hassle of remembering to renew your American Legion membership by taking advantage of the new multiyear membership available to you.  Legionnaires needing to renew for 2024 or veterans joining the organization for the first time can lock-in a three-year membership by visiting legion.org/renew or legion.org/join. 

Questions About Your Membership?

Please do not hesitate to contact Adjutant Kent Wong for any questions or issues about your American Legion membership.  


Contact the Adjuta

American Legion

Seattle Post #1 & West Seattle Post #160

"Post 1 is proud to support the young people who are our future"


- Debra Wood, Post 1 Commander


Cathay Post #186 extends our heartfelt appreciation to American Legion Seattle Post #1 and West Seattle Post #160 for their exceptional generosity in providing supplemental funding for our five high school oratorical contestants and supporting our 7 delegates attending Boy States.   Post #1 Commander is Debra Wood.  West Seattle Post #160 Commander is Keith Hughes.  


"Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress, and working together is success."  - Henry Ford

 

"Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much."

- Helen Keller


After being featured in the American Legion Department of Washington Weekly Operational Highlights dated December 22, 2023, we were honored to receive positive feedback from Walt Tanimoto, State Surgeon, VFW Department of Washington and VFW Post Commander #6785.

Walt shared his remarks...

"Well done Cathay Post 186!  Your holidays activities are reflective of the American Legion mission, vision, and values!  Happy Holidays!"      

Walt....we appreciate your friendship and your encouragements.  

Rice Collection Update:

So far, we've collected and donated 144 pounds of rice for the ACRS Food Bank.   We plan to continue this initiative throughout 2024 by collecting at each month's post meetings.  Thank you for your generosity.   Your kindness plays a crucial role in aiding community members facing food insecurity.

"Veterans Strengthening America"     

The American Legion motto is "Veterans Strengthening America."  Let's continue to work together and make a positive impact in our community.

 

Some service projects we're currently planning are:

- Cookout for the Beacon Hill VA Medical Hospital Volunteers with Post #1.

- C-ID Hing Hay Park Clean Up.  Clean up Hing Hay Park before Memorial Day.

- ACRS Food Bank Help.  

 

If you have other ideas for community service projects, please email Adjutant Kent Wong.   

U.S. Air Force

U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcons fly in sync after an aerial refueling over an undisclosed location within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility during Ballast Cannon, Jan. 7, 2024. As a routine exercise occurring nearly quarterly with the Royal Bahraini Air Force, this iteration supports the U.S. Air Force’s rapid expeditionary capabilities by integrating Agile Combat Employment objectives for F-16 Fighting Falcon, KC-135 Stratotanker, and operational support personnel. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jasmonet Holmes)

Our "Veterans Helping Veterans" program is designed to provide mutual support among veterans through a range of initiatives:

 

We offer complimentary volunteer "handyman" assistance, providing support for various household tasks like installing safety devices, replacing hard-to-reach lightbulbs, and changing smoke detector batteries.

 

We also assist veterans in locating walking and mobility aid devices to enhance the quality of life.

 

We want to connect those in need with available resources, ensuring a network of support for all veterans.

 

Our objective is to establish a thriving community where veterans can lend a helping hand to one another.

 

Please contact us if you need help. 


PLEASE MARK YOUR CALENDARS:   

Cathay Post #186 is excited to sponsor seven Evergreen Boys State delegates.  Two of our delegates are from our high school oratorical contestants.  Three other delegate (pictured above) are Boy Scouts from Scouts BSA CBC Troop 254. 

Evergreen Boys State is a leadership and citizenship program organized by The American Legion.  It is designed to provide high school juniors with a hands-on experience in the operation of the democratic form of government.  

We Are "Foo Dogs" - Guardians & Protectors!


Cathay Post #186 members are "Guardians and Protectors" of AMERICAN VALUES and PATRIOTISM!  


Which means we advocate for upholding and defending the United States Constitution, equal justice and opportunity for everyone and discrimination against no one, youth education, responsible citizenship and honoring military service by observing and participating in memorial events.

Tax Deductible Donations

"VETERANS STRENGTHENING AMERICA"
Cathay Post #186 is making a positive impact.  Here are a few examples:

You can help us achieve our mission with a tax-deductible donation.

To donate cash, you can send us a check made payable to "American Legion - Cathay Post #186".  If you want your gift used for a specific purpose by indicating that purpose either in the memo line or in a letter to us.

Contact us if you want to add a bequest in your Will.   We can help you include language in your will or trust specifying a gift be made to Cathay Post #186 as part of your estate plan.

Donations to American Legion Cathay Post #186 are Tax Deductible:

If you have any questions about donations, please contact Cathay Post Adjutant, Kent Wong. 


Submit Your Intent to File a Claim

The Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022 (PACT Act) is the biggest expansion of Veteran health care and benefits in generations. VA encourages all eligible Veterans and survivors to file a claim — or submit their intent to file a claim — for PACT Act-related benefits now. If you notify VA of your intent to file before Aug. 10, 2023, you may be able to get retroactive payments to Aug. 10, 2022, when the PACT Act became law. Learn how to let VA know of your intent to file.  Go to:  https://www.va.gov/resources/your-intent-to-file-a-va-claim/

BE A MEMBER OF CATHAY POST #186 

& THE AMERICAN LEGION


The American Legion was chartered and incorporated by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic veterans organization devoted to mutual helpfulness. It is the nation's largest wartime veterans service organization, committed to mentoring youth and sponsorship of wholesome programs in our communities, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting strong national security, and continued devotion to our fellow service members and veterans.

The American Legion's success depends entirely on active membership, participation and volunteerism. The organization belongs to the people it serves and the communities in which it thrives.


If you have served at least one day of active military duty since

December 7, 1941 and were honorably discharged or you are still serving active military duty honorably, you are eligible for membership with The American Legion.


Come to our meeting and check us out.  If you want to join the Cathay Post #186, please contact Adjutant Kent Wong and he can sign you up.    

Let's make a difference in our Community, State and Nation.    

"Veterans Strengthening America"