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The
Modesto Chapter Located in the heart of the Central
Valley, the Modesto Chapter is proud of its record of
accomplishments and contributions to the Local, State and
National scene. Our local involvement is second to none and we
enjoy vast support and rapport with our local citizenry. Our
Chapter's active, yet vital role has led us to the 1997,
and again in 1998 Best National Chapter and Best National AGIF
Member in both 1996 and in 1997. Visit us through our website
and learn more about the American GI Forum and Modesto.
ABOUT
OUR CHAPTER
Though considered a small chapter among our brother chapters,
Modesto still vigorously lives up to its potential. Committed
to the purpose of the American GI Forum's standards and
excellence in providing assistance to veterans and their
families in the areas of veteran's benefits, education and
civil rights....the Modesto chapter is in the heart of the
Forum's purpose. A vital part of the community, this valley
chapter under the leadership of Commander Raul Ortega
continues the tradition set forth by Dr. Hector P. Garcia and
the legacy of serving Hispanic veterans and their
families. Our past accomplishments and progress has
helped Modesto to be recognized right along side our bigger
brother chapters. Modesto continues and will continue to be of
service to the valley community in all aspects of veterans and
community services.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
AND PROJECTS - 1998-1999 HIGHLIGHTS
The Modesto AGIF Chapter, in coordination with the Modesto
American Legion accomplished its tasks of necessary veteran's
medical assistance. In April of 1998, the city of Modesto
agreed to dedicate a wing of its abandoned County
hospital as a Veterans Administration Health Clinic.
Prior to this, veterans were forced to travel an hour and a
half to the nearest veterans hospital in Livermore,
California.
AGIF
in Modesto sponsored the Latino Voter Registration Kick-Off in
March of 1998.
-In conjunction with the Women's League of Voters, worked and
co-sponsored the field of voter education.
-In conjunction with the California Legal Rural
Assistance, the AGIF worked in operating a Diabetes Clinic.
AGIF
of Modesto works with legislation in Sacramento including
areas in English Only and other Hispanic veterans issues. The
most recent area was that of Immigration rights held in May of
1999, where AGIF (Modesto) was involved. Commander Ortega also
had the opportunity to meet with the president of Mexico on
issues concerning Hispanic veterans in the latter part of May
1999.
The
Modesto chapter Color Guard participates in the Veterans
Day Parade, July Fourth Parade, Memorial Day Parade and Cinco
De Mayo Parade. This year, 1999, the Color Guard participated
in both the Modesto and Stockton Cinco De Mayo Parades. The
Color Guard is also a participant with the Modesto Jaycees
along with the Modesto Youth Chapter and our 1999 American GI
Forum Queen.
We
are currently involved with two very important projects, one
coordination with the city of Modesto from funds through
CBDG where minority contractors will be able to qualify for
bigger jobs. The other is our long term project , in
which, the U.S. Army Reserve Center, that is not in use,
will be used as an extended position in community services.
Our
chapter continues to serve the needs of our youth, this year
we are giving away five scholarships and will have several job
internships for summer work and interested students.
MEMORIAL
Here at the Modesto chapter, we would like to take a moment to
commemorate the Mexican-American Medal of Honor recipients
from all wars. Our extensive thoughts and prayers go out to
the family of Medal of Honor recipient Roy Benavides, Master
Sergeant (ret) Us Army. Mr. Benavides passed away in San
Antonio, Texas on November 29, 1998. He had suffered a long
illness complicated by diabetes and anemia. This Texas born
hero received the Congressional Medal of Honor, as a result of
his gallantry during the Vietnam war where he was cited for
saving the lives of eight fellow Green Berets. Benavides was
very active in the Hispanic community across the nation. His
torch was directed at youth and often one would here his
message " stay in school, respect your family and love
the American Flag. "DUTY, HONOR, COUNTRY" Roy
Benavides, a true American Hero. We would also like to take a
moment and dedicate it to those who are MIA/POW.... We still
pray for you...
To
our brave men and women who have served, continue to serve, or
will serve...WE SUPPORT YOU!
Thank you for visiting us, come back soon. If you have
comments or suggestions,
Email us at: agifmodcha@aol.com
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