Chapter News

Buckeye Chapter

Recently seen: The VFW Reed Miller Post No. 3297, Delaware, Ohio, is the home of the Buckeye Chapter, of the National Rakkasan Association. The Buckeye Chapter was formed in 1982 during the same time frame the National Rakkasan Association was formed. VFW Post 3297 has hosted the Buckeye Chapter ever since!

There is a large memorial erected many years ago to honor Rakkasans. The Monument itself is 15 feet long by 6 feet tall, with the reflective bench containing the words, "til we form again', with a 'Bench Mark' honoring 187th Troopers of Airborne, Glider, and Air Assault. 

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C.W. "DOC" Flevares, M Co. 187th ARCT, (the highlighted paver) was a founding member of the Buckeye Chapter and the National Association. He was the financial backer for the 15 "Rakkasans Bronzes", created in memory of the Rakkasans, which now reside at Ft. Campbell.

The next meeting of the Buckeye Chapter is May 2nd, 2020.

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Lone Star Chapter

On Saturday, May 4th we held our 2019 annual Texas Rakkasan Lonestar Chapter meeting in Dallas, TX. We, unfortunately, over the years have lost much of our membership. The members that were able to attend discussed veteran issues, upcoming membership meetings, recruiting new members, and keeping in touch with battle buddies. We also enjoyed Buca Di Beppo's Italian dishes and good fellowship among our members.
I have attached a picture of the members.

Best regards,

Traci Ratliff (wife of President) Texas Lonestar Rakkasan Chapter

Lester Hammond Jr. Chapter

A wonderful surprise happened to two of our chapter members, Tom and Tony Bezouska. They received notice that they were 2 of 3 veterans to represent all military for the Veterans Day Football Game, November 11, 2018. It was the Chicago Bears against the Detroit Lions, at Soldier Field in Chicago IL. The 3rd veteran was the youngest (Marine) to receive the Medal of Honor in Afghanistan, Kyle Carpenter. It was a pleasure to be with him. He has a very uplifting personality.

In addition, Tom and Tony with their wives Jane and Mary Ann and two oldest sons Tony and Dr. Tom were invited to visit Halas Hall on November 8th to meet all the coaches and players. What a Great Day!

A great time was had for the Annual Rakkasan Reunion that in his life, he has received many honors which included Honorary Doctorate, but none were so dear to him as the DMOR. He said that was when he was a young Rakkasan. He said that everything he had done since then was from life as a Rakkasan.

Also that evening Jane Bezouska was honored as Lady Rakkasan of the Year.

It was a great evening.

Tom Bezouska

Chicago Bears Quarterback Mitchell Trubisky shakes hands with Tony Bezouska

Tony Jr, Tony, Tom and Bob Bezouska being shown on the large teletron.