A Special Father's Day Tribute
Survivors of Vietnam War casualties honor their fathers with roses.

One thousand roses accompanied by personal messages from across the country will be placed at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., at 8 a.m. on Father's Day, June 16.

Children of Vietnam War casualties, including representatives from Sons and Daughters In Touch, will gather near the "Wall" to leave messages of love, honor, and remembrance attached to red and yellow roses. These messages are intended to recognize those fathers who were not able to see their children grow up, as well as the young men who never had the opportunity to become fathers.

"Many Vietnam veterans had their Father's Day celebrations cut short by the war," says Jan Scruggs, founder and president of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund. "The [ceremony] gives their children the opportunity to honor their fathers in a special way, thus continuing the healing process for the families left behind."

For more information on the Father's Day ceremony or the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, call (202) 393-0090, or visit the organization's Web site through troa's links page, www.troa.org/magazine/links.asp.

POWs Gain a New Voice

To better address issues affecting former POWs, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has created a 12-member panel to assess the needs of these veterans regarding service-connected compensation, health, and rehabilitation.

"Many POWs have endured privations beyond description - even torture," says va Secretary Anthony J. Principi. "The [VA] must remain ever-attuned to their special needs."

The committee, headed by Thomas M. McNish, a physician and former Vietnam War POW, will meet at least twice a year, although individual members or working groups may be called on for specific consultations with va officials. Each member will serve for up to three years and provide Principi with written reports.

Sweet-Smelling Philanthropy

Smelling great never felt so good! Under a new promotion created by the Clarins Fragrance Group, from now through July 2002, 100 percent of all net profits of Giorgio, Red, and G fragrances sold at 118 military bases nationwide will be donated to charities that support the armed forces.

"We, along with the rest of America, are deeply affected by the events of Sept. 11," says Marc Rosenblum, senior vice president for Clarins. "Along with profound sadness has come an overwhelming pride in our country. This pride has inspired us to support our military and the causes close to its heart."

The charities that will receive the donations include the Army Emergency Relief Fund, the Air Force Aid Society, and the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society. The mission of each organization is to provide educational and financial assistance to members of the armed forces.