June 2025 Newsletter
- Sons and Daughters of the Vietnam War
- Feb 7
- 3 min read
President’s Message:
Welcome to Our Newsletter!
Welcome to the very first edition of our Sons and Daughters of the Vietnam War newsletter! Every other month, we’ll bring you several quick updates to keep you connected, informed, and inspired.
This newsletter is just one way we’re growing as an organization, and we can’t do it without you. I encourage every member to get involved with one of our committees. That’s where the heart of our mission lives and where your voice can truly make a difference.
Not sure where to start? Look for the article below to learn more about the committees and how you can take part. Together, we’ll carry the legacy forward.
In service and remembrance,
Dennis SchlemmerNational President
Vietnam Veterans Memorial on Memorial Day
On May 26, during the annual Memorial Day commemoration hosted by the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund (VVMF), the Sons and Daughters of the Vietnam War had the honor of laying a wreath at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.
National President Dennis Schlemmer and National Treasurer Suzy Messinger represented the organization in this solemn tribute to those who served and sacrificed during the Vietnam War. They were joined by newly elected board member Lori Durno for the powerful ceremony, which underscored the importance of remembrance and the role descendants play in carrying forward the legacy of Vietnam veterans.
Help Us Launch “Women in War”
The Sons and Daughters of the Vietnam War is proud to sponsor a new exhibit at the National Vietnam War Museum: Women in War, a powerful tribute to the often-overlooked contributions of women during the Vietnam War era.
To help bring this exhibit to life, we’re launching a pair of fundraising efforts, and your support is essential. Click on the Fundraiser below to learn more!
GoFundMe CampaignPlease help us spread the word! Share the GoFundMe link via email, text, Facebook, Instagram, and any other way you connect. Every share makes a difference.
Little Caesars Virtual FundraisingWe earn $6 per item sold — and it's as easy as clicking a link. Pizza Kits ship to homes or you can purchase a code to redeem at local restaurants.
Your support will help ensure that these incredible stories of courage, service, and sacrifice are remembered and honored.
Get Involved: Join a SDVW Committee
The work of the Sons and Daughters of the Vietnam War happens through our dedicated committees — and you can be a part of it. Whether you have a specific interest or just want to support our mission, there’s a place for you to serve.
Current committees include:
Bylaws
Communications
Membership
Legislative
Veterans Affairs
Fundraising
Education
NVWM Women’s Exhibit
America 250
Quartermaster
Committee work is flexible, rewarding, and vital to our success. If you’re ready to get involved, please reach out to us at SDVW.info@gmail.com. Your time and passion can make a real difference!
Member Spotlight:
Suzy Messinger, National Treasurer
Suzy Messinger is one of the founding members of the Sons and Daughters of the Vietnam War, and today she serves as our National Treasurer.
She lives in California, where Suzy works as a Physical Therapist Assistant. Her connection to Vietnam War history runs deep. Suzy’s father, Jim Messinger, one of the founders of the National Vietnam War Museum, served two tours in the Vietnam War as a helicopter pilot. Carrying that legacy forward, Suzy is leading the charge on the museum’s newest exhibit, which will honor the contributions of women during the Vietnam War era, including nurses, service members, Red Cross volunteers, and more.
In addition to her roles as Treasurer and the Women in War Exhibit Chair, Suzy also serves on both our Communications and Fundraising Committees, helping shape how we connect with our members and raise support for our mission. Her warm, thoughtful presence and eye for detail are felt in every corner of our organization.
Whether she’s balancing our books, crafting a campaign, or curating history, Suzy leads with heart, humor, and purpose.
Thank you, Suzy, for the many ways you serve and inspire.
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