PDC Fred Murphy presents information on proper wearing of badges.

The next SUVCW Member Orientation course has been scheduled for a new location to assist members in our new Camps in Janesville and Wind Lake. For the rest of our members in southeast Wisconsin, Delavan is only an hour's travel from the Madison, Waukesha or Milwaukee areas.

What is Member Orientation? Well, have you ever sat in one of our Sons meetings and wondered how some of our traditions began, or thought about the many Sons before us who kept the organization going for 125 years? Have you wondered where to buy a kepi, or even whether you must have one, or whether you're supposed to salute your Camp commander? Why do we sponsor all these different activities, anyway, and if I volunteer for something just how much work will I take on?

These orientations are open to ANY member wishing a deeper understanding of Sons history, purpose, protocol and projects. New members are encouraged to attend but long-time members will learn a few new things as well. Much of the meeting will be based on the Introduction to the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War booklet, which some receive when they join. Extra copies will be available at the course.

After attending the meeting, members should:

• know the SUVCW mission, purpose and programs
• understand the SUVCW organization and structure
• recognize and wear SUVCW insignia properly
• observe correct SUVCW customs and protocol
• demonstrate basic knowledge of SUVCW values, history of the SUVCW and local Camp, role of the Auxiliary, members' responsibilities, membership benefits, and more.

Presentations and handouts will be provided by experienced officers of the Order. There is no cost for you to attend. However, please pre-register with the appropriate contact so that a sufficient number of student materials can be provided. Orientations are identical ... a member of one Camp may attend an orientation sponsored by another Camp.

The next SUVCW Member Orientation course has been scheduled for:

• Sunday, March 29, 2015
• 12:30 - 4:30 p.m., Community Bank Community Centre, 825 Geneva St., Delavan from 12:30 - 4:30 p.m. [click for map of location]
• Members from any Camp are invited to attend
• Guests or those interested in learning more about the SUVCW may attend
• Please pre-register by contacting PDC Kent Peterson before March 20th