[Scan-DC] DoD JSOH...

[Belldina, Craig (NHLBI)]

Well,
Getting those VIP passes required some elbow grease!!
in 2000, I attended the show with my grandfather who is a WWII veteran (all
5 ETO major battles and a Tank Commander..) and noticed that there were not
any seating for veterans. I thought this was odd since that show was
showcasing veterans. I did notice VIP seating, mostly reserved for Pepsi and
other big shots and sponsors. I was a little ticked and started asking
questions on why the lack of seating....No luck. 
That day was very hot, and my elderly grandfather loved the show but he was
humble and didn't quite understand the commotion I was causing....
(Frederick offers Vet seating at their AirShow.) 
Anyway, I complained to the 89th AW liaison office. There answer "..well if
he is handicapped, he can have a seat.." I stated he "was not.." but he &
other veterans should be treated as some sort of VIP, considering we lose
approx 3k WWII veterans everyday. They blew my off. The Colonel of the
Public Affairs Office was an ass. His response was "he is a citizen...not a
sponsor....not a VIP" 
Well, I was pissed.
I fired a letter off to WTOPNEWS.com and got a response that they would look
into it. Nothing. I waited to the following April of 2001.
So, I wrote an email to Congresswoman Connie Morella. BINGO!
I got a wonderful letter for Congresswoman Morella. She advised she was
looking into the situation and was concerned.
Her office called later in the week and stated "has you issue been
resolved?" I stated "No, nothing yet from Andrews.." .......  "okay, she
stated....Give me a couple of days, I we will have look into it again.." 
Well, a few days later I was invited to Andrews AFB to meet with the Chief
of the Public Affairs office. I was handed 4 VIP passes and a parking permit
for the base. The Chief was very nice & apologetic and gave me her business
card. I reminded her, since this was a DoD event, it would be nice to have
some seating for veterans of ALL wars. It wouldn't be much. Just some
folding chairs and maybe a water stand. She agreed.
Well, It got my passes for 2001. Drove right onto the tarmac and sat 20ft in
front of a row of Blue Angels F/A18's. Cool!! 
However....RAIN!!!!!!!!!!! DOH!!
Anyway, no show...at least, not a good...full show..
Then comes this year....(2002)
Last week I wrote a letter on behalf of my grandfather. I stated that he is
in a book (Battle of the Bulge) and has 5 battle stars for the ETO. I sent
this letter to the Chief of Public Affairs (she gave me her card
remember??!?!LOL) Anyway, I got an email Friday to come and get my VIP
passes and permit on Tuesday 05/14/02. 
Still, I hope the they would reserve some spaces off for veterans and
retired military. Come on', it's a huge base!! What could be the problem?
I guess I will wait and see.
I am hoping for clear skies and GREAT flying!
-Craig
PS. Thanks Ron!! Keep on the MilCom updates if you can.. I print those out
into a book to keep for reference.