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September 2010 • Contents14 • The Purple HeartAmerica’s oldest medal and one the most prestigious has a storied past. Yet few veterans know the full extent of its complex and sometimes confusing history. Here is a rundown on some of the “wounded” medal’s fascinating features. • By Fred Borch4 • Commemorate Constitution Day Sept. 17Celebrating this virtually ignored date is another way of recalling the vital role of warveterans in the nation’s founding. 18 • Veterans Have an Obligation to TeachThere is only one way to assure a lasting legacy for war service: get involved in theclassroom and effectively use the newest technology. Otherwise, today’s youth are not likely to appreciate the sacrifices of veterans. • By Heidi Russell Rafferty 24 • Hurricane Takes Terrible Toll of DoughboysThe Labor Day Hurricane of 1935 devastated the Florida Keys in one of the worst storms ever to hit the East Coast. An estimated 260 WWI veterans perished, many due to thenegligence of work camp administrators. • By Willie Drye 28 • Veteran-Signers of the U.S. ConstitutionIn September 1787, 22 Revolutionary War veterans signed the greatest document in American history. That monumental event is cause for commemoration. • By Robert Widener 30 • Rendezvous at RipcordFor three weeks in July 1970, elements of the 101st’s 3rd Brigade waged the last major U.S. battle in Vietnam. They suffered 74 KIA and 400 WIA in the dreaded A Shau Valley, a place where victory was no longer politically possible. • By Charles Hawkins 35 • A Final SaluteThe Afghanistan and Iraq Wars Honor Roll. 36 • Call of the Wild: War Veterans as 'Lumberjacks'Rated the second-deadliest occupation in the nation, the logging industry nonetheless holds unique appeal. The camaraderie and crew pride, much as in the military, draws some like a magnet even as this special breed of men dwindles. • By Janie Blankenship44 • Return to Vietnam Revives MemoriesFifteen Purple Heart recipients made some lasting friendships courtesy of VFW’s Kahle Fund, which sponsors special trips for wounded veterans. • By Jerry Newberry46 • Past Commander-in-Chief Richard Homan DiesFormer Chief from West Virginia died in June.
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