In November 1998 DQS was represented at several events in Washington, D.C. during the week of Veterans Day. In this time frame, Mrs. Alice May (Past-President of the Gold Star Mothers organization) remarked to our Lou Block that she wished she could see the place (Vietnam) where her son breathed his last breath. Not necessarily the exact location, but the country (close if possible) to get a feel and understanding of that which her son had seen and known. It was only a passing remark, but it burned in Lou's mind like white phosphorus.

Armed with the knowledge that Mrs. May and other Gold Star Mothers had been led to believe that this possibility would become a reality in the past; only to suffer the indignity of having their trust betrayed (yes, these honorable ladies encountered financial loss also), Lou wrestled with thoughts on 'how to right this terrible wrong'. A survey of his personal abilities, though he is experienced and knowledgeable in regard to traveling to Vietnam, came up woefully short (as would most of us). His thoughts then turned to his DQS brothers. He and a group of DQS brothers have been looking at possibilities and options. Other than a small group funding one or possibly two Gold Star Mothers, financing has been the primary issue that needs to be addressed.

With this in mind, DQS is initiating "Operation Gold Star". We ask that each DQS Vet evaluate what he can do in support of this most worthy endeavor. Please send your gift in support of these ladies who have given so much to our country. Send what you can - Please be generous - Do it today! Some of your DQS brothers have already done so. A separate account has been set up for this purpose (for this purpose only). Please indicate on or with your donation "Operation Gold Star" or Gold Star Fund". Send donations to:

We will be working with Mrs. May and the Gold Star Mothers organization in selecting the mothers who wish to participate. Please do not delay your donation, these delightful ladies are, to be blunt, not getting any younger. Don't wait to see what Joe, Ed, Don or whoever does - Be in the forefront! (Yes - Don Brown, attending his first reunion in Baton Rouge, made a substantial, unsolicited contribution to kick off this fund after only a mention of this possible endeavor was made in explaining what DQS was about.) Don believes - Do you? Repay Don's belief and faith in Lou and DQS!

We will be approaching corporations, groups and etc. for donations and other help after we have raised enough funds to indicate the solidity of our efforts and intent. You may want to approach friends, co-workers and organizations or businesses in your hometown to allow them to participate in this effort. If you need info. or other help, contact Lou Block (503)-252-8826  ljblock@uswest.net or Ed Allen (812)-845-2303  DusterEd@juno.com

Other than dollars, the purchase of airline tickets (domestic or international) - possibly with frequent flyer miles - and other such offers would be of great help to the success of this endeavor.