Old Friends and New Adventures

by Silvia Holman

Hello everyone! I want to take this opportunity to announce my retirement from the Elks National Veterans Service Commission, effective November 30th. I was hired in 1998 by the late ENVSC Director, Michael F. Manning and it has been a wonderful journey helping our members serve Veterans.

This decision was made with many tears and a very heavy heart, but the time is right and I am looking forward to some new adventures.

Veteran issues have long been a passion of mine because my late husband, Tom, was a combat Viet Nam Veteran. His struggles inspired me to find a way to help others. The ENVSC was and continues to be a vital organization in serving them. I, along with all of us here in Chicago, are amazed and grateful for the inspiring work our members have done and continue to do. I cannot thank you enough for all of your dedicated service to them.

I have made friends with so many Elk members over these many years, and I will always cherish you all. It has truly been an honor and a privilege to know you and to see how much our members and the employees here at headquarters have honored these deserving American heroes, who face such daunting challenges.

I would also like to give my thanks to my co-workers here, those in the Grand Secretary’s office, the Shipping Department, and others, who were so encouraging and patient with my many quirks. To all of you, thank you for helping and encouraging me. I will never forget your kindness and your help. I could not have done my job without you.

Finally, my deepest thanks and affection to my co-workers at the ENVSC; Mary Morgan, Hannah Graber, and Nadezh Mulholland, and to those who have left us way too early; Michael F. Manning, Robert M. Hennings, and Linda Carlson.

Thank you all for everything (and for putting up with me). I could not have asked for better co-workers. Your dedication to Veterans has been inspiring and you will never be forgotten.

I leave knowing that the work for Veterans continues and that they will remain in good hands.

I wish you all good health, happiness and again, my deepest thanks.