"NEVER AGAIN SHALL ONE GENERATION OF VETERANS ABANDON ANOTHER"
- Vietnam Veterans of America Founding Principle

Chapter 712, The Chesapeake Chapter of Vietnam Veterans of America, is a unique group of old soldiers and sailors. Although small in number, we still serve by virtue of an accident of geography: Annapolis - a military capital known to the world. Several of our members annually serve as guest speakers for the United States Naval Academy series on Combat Leadership. We are experienced, "low-budget" producers of one of the best-ever Memorial Day parades and concluding patriotic ceremonies. And yet, consistent with our service thirty plus years ago, the community remains largely unaware of our service THEN and NOW. Our collective traumas "Over There" are often overshadowed by the indifference and frequent hostility we experienced upon re-entry to "The World" a generation ago.

Our pledge to our hometown A Troop, 1st Squadron, 158th Cavalry, 29th Divison: "NEVER AGAIN."

Thanks to the special education we have received from our founding member, A Troop 1SG Gil Snead, a fellow Vietnam veteran, and from Major Ray Williams, 29th "Chaplain extraordinaire", VVA Chapter 712 is well informed about the Rules of Constraint you must master for your Bosnia mission. And, to think, we complained about Rules of Engagement in Vietnam, which nevertheless did accommodate exceptions for Free Fire Zones.

As you go "In Harm's Way", please know that our thoughts, our prayers…and a special sense of understanding go with you. As we are here for each other, we are here for you and your families now, and most especially when you return.

Through our web-site host program, to the extent permitted by military protocol, you have an open line for communication to our handful of old soldiers, to your immediate military community and their family members, and to the country and the world at large. By private e-mail, our members are also here to listen and to share one-on-one.

Your families may call on us ANYTIME. We collectively constitute a small group of veterans but we promise this: our best effort to enhance community awareness of your sacrifice and the special burdens accepted by your families.

On your return, we look forward to your full unit participation in the Annapolis Memorial Day parade 2002. VVA 712 Operation Yellow Ribbon is now operational.

K. Houston Matney, President
VVA Chesapeake 712
Annapolis, Maryland