NY PGR members and associates,

We have had a very busy summer and fall across the state. "Thank You" to the many Captains and members who have given their time to support our main mission of Riding Escorts and Standing Flag lines in silent gratitude, in honor and respect for those who have served and sacrificed and their families. You have provided security and shared in the pain. "Thank You" from so many.

With Veterans Day celebrations going on this week, we see a spike in the media and our communities honoring Veterans. Like most holidays, this spike does not last long. Sadly most of the country forgets the service and sacrifices made soon after.

We belong to a group that honors and responds for our Veterans and their families every day, 7 days a week, all year long. That brings me to the point I want to make.

Our secondary mission, PGR NY (HOTH) or *Help On The Home Front* program was designed to assist Veterans and their families in serious need. To date NY PGR has assisted with building additions and home repairs for disabled Vets,  we have been there with financial aid by paying overdue bills, mortgage payments etc., we have supplied food and heating fuels and more. We have sent funds as far as Texas for house repairs when asked. Many of you have asked that I share this information with our members.

Our past HOTH Director (Harry Hartman) suffered severe health issues and was forced to step down a year ago. I can no longer cover these duties. I need you to know that our program is now suffering. We do not have enough volunteers to do a good job of serving our Veterans.
I am asking for help with the following duties.

1. *NY HOTH Director* to coordinate the program statewide
2. *Regional Coordinators*, to coordinate with local HOTH Captains
3. *HOTH Captains*, to organize our Volunteers and missions.
4. *Volunteers* to interview Veterans in need, help with projects, make visits to VA hospitals, assist with welcome home missions and fundraising.

None of these duties need to require much commitment or time. There are only a few of us handling them now. I have asked before, but I guess not loud and clear enough. We have 3500 registered members in NY, I do not want to hear from those who are already busy in PGR duties now.

To have this program properly staffed and assisting our Veterans will be the best way we can show our gratitude and recognition to all those who have served past and present. Please contact me if you can spare even a few hours a month.

The NY website has all mission info posted, 2 calendars with events/details posted and the picture of the day.  www.pgrny.org

Thank you today, and every day, to all those who have served this country.

Respectfully,

Dave Kern
NY State Captain