Oregon War Veterans Blog

Memorial Day Events in Oregon

Salem-News.com

(SALEM, Ore. ) - Each year on Memorial Day, Americans pay honor to all of those who have died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.

In recognition of the holiday’s rich history, the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is announcing the Memorial Day celebrations occurring statewide of which the agency has been made aware.

Originally called Decoration Day, Memorial Day was first observed on May 30, 1868 as a day in which the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers would be decorated with flowers.

The holiday’s name was later changed to Memorial Day. In 1971, it became a federal holiday to be observed on the last Monday in May.

MEMORIAL DAY EVENTS THROUGHOUT OREGON:

OWVA Director calls Lars Larson

On Wednesday (at approx. 11:45 AM), Greg Warnock called the Lars Larson Show on 750 KXL Radio, to express his primary reason for OWVA's endorsement of Kevin Mannix.

OWVA- Oregon Primary Races

Note from executive director, Greg Warnock:

OWVA rarely gets involved in Primary campaign races, unless candidates request an endorsement.

In 2008's Primary season, only four candidates asked for OWVA's endorsement. 

OWVA produces it's first widely viewed TV commercial- "OWVA endorses Kevin Mannix for Congress."

This TV Commercial is being aired on all Portland area networks and many Comcast Cable channels through May 20, 2008.

Kevin Mannix receives OWVA Citizenship Award.

The Board of directors for the Oregon War Veterans Association (OWVA) agreed that Kevin Mannix deserved their highest civilian award.  The Citizenship Award is given to individuals and organizations who demonstrate an "above the call of duty" support for veterans, members of Oregon's military and their families. 

Oregon War Hero Considered for the Presidential Medal of Freedom

Salem, OR - On April 21, 2008, the White House confirmed that Salem Native- The Reverend Jacob "Jake" DeShazer is being considered for the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom.   DeShazer, who died last month would receive the award posthumously. 

Donors support OWVA's charitable purposes.

After regular meetings with several past supporters of OWVA's charitable programs, OWVA received several large contributions totaling more than $130,000.00 since January 2008.
www.owva.org

OWVA endorses several candidates in Oregon's Primary Elections.

OWVA has special permission from Congress to be involved in direct campaigning for candidates who support the issues impacting their members and supporters.  As a 501(c)(19) war veterans association, OWVA is allowed to get involved in elections and legislation development when other charities are not permitted to.  In three rulings by the US Supreme Court, 501(c)(19)/170(c)(3) associations are granted the ability to be involved "with no restrictions what-so-ever." (2003-IRS-letter to OWVA)

Jacob "Jake" DeShazer - Doolittle Raider Funeral

Salem, OR  - One of Oregon's best known WW2 war heroes, Jacob "Jake" DeShazer, of Salem, Oregon will receive high honors during his funeral services, on Saturday, March 29th,.  SSgt Jake DeShazer died peacefully at home on March 15th.  He was 95 years old.

OWVA member and WWII Doolittle Raider dies in Salem, OR, at age 95.

Jacob "Jake" DeShazer died in his sleep on March 15, 2008, while surrounded by his family at home.