Highland AMVETS Post 44 May Meeting Recap: brotherhood, blessings, and connection.

Highland AMVETS Post 44 in Cookeville, TN held its May meeting with strong turnout and even stronger camaraderie. The evening brought good food, important updates, and a reminder of why local veteran organizations matter.

Dinner Provided by Jim Jolly and Texas Roadhouse

Thanks to the generosity of Post officer and local business leader Jim Jolly, members were treated to a full dinner from Texas Roadhouse. The meal was a welcome way to gather, connect, and focus on what matters: supporting one another. Meals like this make it easier for veterans to stay plugged into the Post, and we’re grateful for Jim’s continued commitment to this group and the community in general.

Six New Members Sworn In

We proudly welcomed six new members to the Post. These are veterans who have raised their hand once again; this time, to serve their fellow veterans through brotherhood, support, and action. It’s good to see our Post continuing to grow with committed men and women who understand the mission and want to be part of something meaningful.

New Business: Missy’s Cakes & More

Post member Craig Thiele's wife, Melissa, announced her micro bakery, Missy’s Cakes & More. Locally based, her baked goods were on full display during the night, a tasty treat for sure! Congratulations to Melissa! Supporting veterans and their spouse's businesses is one of the ways we strengthen our community. Call her for orders or head on over to her Facebook page to feast your eyes on some delicious goodies you'll surely want to purchase from Melissa!

Messy T's Bakery

Phone: (931) 287-3116

Facebook link: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576160390362#

Support Available: Don’t Go It Alone

Commander Dwayne reminded everyone that if any member is struggling with a project, situation, or needs extra hands, help is available. That’s what we’re here for. No one should be out there trying to handle life’s curveballs alone. If you need help, speak up. Reach out to Commander Dwayne directly, support starts with a conversation. The post number is (931) 316-0179.

VA Disability Claims: See Mark Harris

If you haven’t filed your VA disability claim, or if you need help with an appeal, Mark Harris is the person to talk to. He’s been assisting veterans with this process and knows how to navigate the system. Whether it’s a new claim or getting what you’re rightly owed, don’t put it off.

Health Updates & Prayer Requests

Please keep Ms. Penny, the wife of our fellow veteran David, in your prayers. She recently suffered a stroke, and the family is going through a difficult time. Also, lift up Craig Thiele, who is preparing for surgery involving a partial amputation. These are our brothers and sisters, we stand with them and support them however we can.

Veteran Programs Spotlight: Warrior PATHH & Operation Heal Our Patriots

Two programs were mentioned during the meeting that could make a real difference in the lives of our members:

• Warrior PATHH: This is a non-clinical program focused on post-traumatic growth. It’s for combat veterans and first responders who are ready to deal with what’s underneath the surface. It’s not therapy, but it’s serious work that leads to real change. NO COST to participants.

  For more information, go to: https://bouldercrest.org/program/warrior-pathh/

• Operation Heal Our Patriots: Run by Samaritan’s Purse, this program is for married post 9/11 combat veterans and their spouses. It includes an Alaska retreat, spiritual guidance, and tools for building stronger marriages. It’s faith-based and effective. NO COST to participants.

  For more information, go to: https://www.samaritanspurse.org/education-2/operation-heal-our-patriots/

If you or someone you know would benefit from either of these, don’t wait—look into applying. These programs save lives and marriages.

Closing Thoughts

Every meeting reminds us why Post 44 exists. We show up for each other, we eat together, we serve together, and we take care of our own. Whether you’ve been with the Post for years or you’re just thinking about joining, there’s always room for another veteran willing to link arms and be part of the solution.

We meet monthly, and every veteran is welcome. If you’ve served, you belong here.