A Night of Fellowship and Service: Highlights from the August AMVETS Post 44 Meeting

On Monday, August 25, our Highland AMVETS Post 44 family gathered for a memorable evening filled with great food, meaningful updates and powerful testimony. Here are the highlights of the night and why our community continues to grow and thrive

A Meal to Remember

Our evening kicked off with a delicious dinner donated by the good folks at Golden Corral. Pulled pork, crispy wedge potatoes and soft dinner rolls created the perfect spread, and the fellowship around the table reminded us why breaking bread together is so important. A huge thank you to Golden Corral for their generosity, your support helps us serve those who have served.

Growing Stronger Together

We were thrilled to welcome six new Post members, bringing us closer to the milestone of 300 active members. Each new member strengthens our mission of veterans supporting veterans. If you’re a veteran in Middle Tennessee looking for camaraderie and purpose, now is the perfect time to join us. Reach out, attend a meeting, and be part of our growing family.

Commander Dwayne Recognized...Again!

Our very own Commander Dwayne Kindell was honored at the AMVETS National Convention as the Recruiter of the Year for the second time. This recognition, shared by the AMVETS Department of Tennessee, celebrates his tireless commitment to bringing veterans into our organization. Commander Dwayne of course recognized the hard work of all those who selflessly volunteer their time to help him with community outreach, keeping in mind that we are all better when we lock arms and walk together. Congratulations, Commander! Your dedication inspires all of us.

Serving Those Who Served: Upcoming Projects

During the meeting, members voted on an upcoming project to help an elderly veteran. Stay tuned for details on how you can get involved—there will be opportunities to volunteer, donate materials or simply lend a hand. Together we can make a tangible difference for someone who has given so much.

Wallet Cards for Homeless Veterans

We also approved a budget for creating wallet cards that will list local resources for homeless veterans. These pocket-sized guides will include hotline numbers, shelters and essential services. More information on distribution and volunteer needs will be shared soon. Let’s ensure no veteran falls through the cracks.

Deadline for Annual Dues

A friendly reminder: annual dues are due in one month. Paying your dues helps keep our Post running strong and allows us to support important projects like the ones above. Once you’ve paid, you can pick up your updated membership ID card. If you have any questions about dues, please contact Jim Mardis at (563) 210-6190.

Honoring Jonas Carter: Leaning on Each Other and on Faith

Our meeting took a solemn turn as our chaplain addressed the recent passing of Jonas Carter, the youngest member of our Post. Jonas was a vibrant 22‑year‑old who loved the outdoors and served tirelessly on our projects. He “had a big heart” and always stopped to help anyone in need. Please keep the Carter family in your prayers. We’re reminded to lean on each other and on God during difficult times, and to reach out when we’re struggling. Please keep a watchful eye on each other and pray for the strength to say something when things don't seem well.

A Miraculous Testimony and New Beginnings

Member Robert Chatman shared an update of powerful testimony and miraculous healing. After facing a grim diagnosis, he testified about God restoring his lungs and removing cancer. Moved by this miracle, Robert is starting a new church—Crossing Rivers Church in Cookeville—to share his story and help others. It was an uplifting reminder that hope can spring from the most challenging circumstances. For more information on how his ministry is shaping up, visit the church website at https://crossingriverschurch.com/

Buddy Check‑Ins: We Need Each Other

One recurring theme throughout the evening was the importance of checking in on your fellow veterans. Isolation can be dangerous, so please pick up the phone, send a message or swing by a friend’s house. If you’re struggling, don’t suffer in silence...reach out. This Post is a family, and we’re here for one another. Please keep these resources below handy, we'll likely be printing them out as wallet cards and handing them out in the future.

Prayer Requests

We closed our meeting in prayer, and we invite you to submit your own prayer requests. Whether you need healing, strength or just a listening ear, our chaplain and all members want to lift you up. Please continue to make your requests known, or contact the chaplain directly at (951) 358-9182. Please join us in prayer for the following:

• Carter family for the loss of Jonas

• Randy Tiffin who has an upcoming knee surgery in September

• Brad Campbell, friend of member Ron, who is struggling with lung cancer

• Vicky Kindell, Commander Dwayne's wife, who is recovering from a recent hip surgery

• Robert Chatman, for God's blessing over his ministry at Crossing Rivers Church

• Don James, for comfort on the passing his dear Princess, the cutest doggie companion

• Your very own chaplain, who will undergo shoulder surgery in September

Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to this meaningful night. Together, we’re building a stronger, more resilient community for veterans across Middle Tennessee. We look forward to seeing you at our next gathering and continuing our mission of service and support.