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Homeless Veterans Task Force REPORT
The Bobby J Award

BY SANDY MILLER, CHAIR

This year, the Homeless Veterans Task Force recommits itself to the mission of ending homelessness among our nation’s veterans. The Bobby J Award was instituted last year although no awards were presented. This year at the Springfield VVA Convention—and annually afterward—the award will be presented to a formerly homeless veteran who has exemplified commitment, embraced change, and provided inspiration to brother and sister veterans.

“Bobby J” was a formerly homeless veteran in recovery, living in a transitional residence, who exhibited great courage in his battles with addiction and Agent Orange-related cancer. “Bobby J” never gave up the fight. He had embarked on a renewed life of recovery and had accepted his impending death with dignity. In keeping with the traditions of 12-step programs, we will not reveal his last name. “Bobby J” died in December 2001.

Nominees must meet the following criteria: 1. Must have been homeless, as defined in the McKinney-Vento Act; 2. Must have completed a homeless domiciliary or transitional program; 3. Must have obtained and maintained housing in the community for a minimum of one year; 4. Must be nominated by a VVA chapter, state council, national committee or task force chair, national officer, or Board member.

Nomination packets must contain: 1. A copy of the individual’s DD-214; 2. Proof of program completion; 3. A written nomination letter, not more than 500 words, on chapter, state council, or VVA letterhead, for those nominations from national committee or task force chairs, National Board of Directors, or national officers.

Completed nomination packets should be sent to: Sandra Miller, HVTF Chair, P.O. Box 557, Douglassville, PA 19518.

The Homeless Veterans Task Force Chair will provide copies of the nominating essays to the members of the task force. The selection committee will be comprised of the President of Vietnam Veterans of America and the members of the National Homeless Veterans Task Force. Nominations will be accepted until May 15. Selection will be made no later than June 1.

The Homeless Veterans Task Force will present life memberships in VVA to honorees who are Vietnam veterans. Other honorees will receive life membership in AVVA. Along with the membership, the HVTF will provide a certificate of recognition.