I have just returned from the mid-winter conference held in Houston, Texas. "It should be noted, that, I took my swimming gear and left my winter coat at home", wrong move. The weather did not cooperate … 30’s and 40’s with wind and rain. The weather was telling me to "pay attention".

The main topic of the conference, is, making a difference. I will share the numbers with you that effect our association and chapter.

The association and chapters are supported by the annual dues. I ask that all ANNUAL MEMBERS PAY THEIR DUES.

Just tear off the back page of the Skysoldier magazine or the Sit-Rep news letter, fill it out, circle renewal and send a check for $24.00 made out the 173d Airborne Association.

The monies for Mrs. Sandy Emery, Mrs. Marilyn Racho, and Mrs. Diane Fahey have been placed in our account. Each year the chapter will pay their annual membership dues. They are, and always will be life time members of chapter 17. Covered in the Chapter by-laws, spouses of decease members are considered associate members.

We have six states, distance is our enemy. This year I am asking for one volunteer from each state to be a vice-president with the attitude of "what can we as members do to support the chapter. What can the chapter do to support the association?" I am looking for individuals who want to make a difference, individuals who will hold the leadership of this chapter accountable.

Details of duties will be explained upon members being chosen. Each state will hold a function that would assist the chapter financially and recruit new members. We as a chapter have many members who have great ideals and great drive, let’s channel that energy by saying and thinking, "we" instead of "I".

                5)   2008 Christmas party

The yearly raffle tickets are, enclosed with this letter. Please support the chapter, by purchasing the tickets. The raffle and annual dues will assist are for administrative needs, hospital kits for our wounded soldiers we are supporting three units in Afghanistan, flowers for deceased members and travel to the burials of our Vietnam veterans/active duty members. Thank you for you support.

At the Mid Winter Conference I was asked to place my name in the running for the position as Vice-President for the 173d Association. I came across an old writing called "Service above self". After much consideration I have chosen to be in the running. The election is scheduled for June 08. I will continue as your chapter president until election results, should I be elected.

General Colin Powell said the following: "Organization doesn't really accomplish anything. Plans don't accomplish anything, either. Theories of management don't much matter. Endeavors succeed or fail because of the people involved. Only by attracting the best people will you accomplish great deeds."

Airborne!

Respectfully submitted

Roy F. Scott, Jr. – Chapter 17 President