October 17, 2025
Commander Pulizzi, fellow SEC Members and Guests,
The following is my 1st Vice Commander report:
I attended the National Convention in August and with the assistance of John Hoecherl, brought home the annual Membership cards. I reached out to all the District Commanders asking for their assistance in their delivery. I heard back from all but one (1) so I do still have some annual cards that need to be delivered.
At the Appointments meeting in August, I was appointed Chair of the Women Veterans Committee. I did plan to hold a meeting this weekend but have not had much luck from the National in regard to receiving information or guidance, so I might be asking the Commander that we dissolve or table this committee for the time being.
Last month, I attended the National 1st Vice Commander meeting led by National 1st Vice Commander, Sandy Vorhees. In this meeting, it was suggested that Departments attempt to start AMVETS Posts within our prison systems. There is a prison within 45 minutes from where I live, so I might be attempting to figure out how to start one. Warren Cox was also in attendance so we discussed some of the problems we are still experiencing as a result of our attempt at another Membership program.
Regarding membership, Michigan currently has 6,286 Members with 1,378 of those Members being Members-at-large. I do my best to answer emails and phone calls regarding membership questions in a timely manner. And if I don’t know the answer, I will reach out to the National.
I spent a weekend in September at the Lodge at Higgins Lake. I am very proud to say that the Lodge has had some major improvements and is run very professionally and would recommend a visit to anyone who hasn’t been there lately.
Last week, I accompanied District 6 Commander Curtis to the Mesick Post as they are still having some leadership problems. We plan to attend their meeting next week as they will be holding another election for Post Commander.
I continue to attend the quarterly Commander’s Group business and legislative meetings. These are very informative as they cover everything that’s happening within the state to include legislation. If anyone has any questions on these meetings, please see me and I will be happy to answer any questions you might have.
I look forward to continuing my position to the best of my ability but sometimes question the direction our SEC is heading. That is my personal opinion right now, and hopefully this will change after this weekend’s conference.
Commander, this is my report and I ask for its acceptance.
Marlene Gaitan
1st Vice Commander
Department of Michigan AMVETS