Department of Virginia meets, hears about POW/MIA history

The Department of Virginia held its convention at the picturesque American Legion Post 354, in Midlothian, June 10. 

ROA’s executive director and department member, Jeff Phillips, delivered a “state of the association” brief that addressed ROA’s legislative campaign, Citizen-Warrior Coalition and its work to increase readiness through support of reservist hiring and retention by the private sector, and the new membership impetus provided by newly hired Cmdr. Trey Criner, USN (Ret.).

Unquestionably, however, a unique highlight was the presentation on POW/MIA history, recovery and identification by Crystal Coon, assistant director of education at the Virginia War Memorial in Richmond. Coon, previously a U.S. Park Service ranger who worked on the National Mall, did an internship at Gettysburg National Military Park.

Department of Virginia president Col. Thomas Hueg, USAF (Ret.) made a focus on membership within the department.  “Virginia has 90 percent of its membership in holding and unaffiliated chapters,” said Hueg. “Imagine the leadership potential if we could meaningfully engage those members.”

ROA “Virginia Gentlemen” Col. Barton Campbell, USA (Ret.) (left) and Department of Virginia President Col. Tom Hueg, USAF (Ret.) stop to get a photo during the department convention.

Going back to America’s first wars, the Virginia War Memorial’s Crystal Coons discusses the history of Prisoner of War/Missing in Action recognition.