Saturday, October 27, 2012

History And Growth Of The Military Order Of The Cootie

By Allan Hatchell


The year 1920 saw the start of the Military Order of the Cootie. Foreign war veterans played a prime role in the organizing process. Members of the Imperial Order of the Dragon decided to form the new order during that time.

The recruiting process turned out successful as it was held in Washington D. C. On September 17, 1920. Fred Madden together with F. L. Gransbury, both wartime veterans, started recruiting at the veteran foreign wars encampment with around 300 enlisted. Fred Madden became its commander. This group, with its new set of officers, was promulgated in the city of New York.

The Cootie uniform is very unique. It is composed of a distinctive red hat complemented by red pants with white stripes on each sides, white shirt that is ruffled, a red vest trimmed with laces with an emblazoned creature that looks like a bug with eyes that are more like a flashing bulb. This reflects what the designer had in mind and that is fun for its members and was officially announced in the year 1924.

The idea of a National Home came into being in 1923. This was then completed by the next year. It was further enhanced by Commander Victor B. Gallaway by adding a field for athletic purposes. It was on 1937, after spending fifteen thousand dollars, that the project was completed. Tommy Ryan was the chairman, and he was designated that position by William J. Crehan.

World War II brought the MOC into action. It decided to aid the victims of the atrocities of war by visiting them in hospitals. The members gave entertainment and comfort to the victims they visited. They were highly appreciated for that.

A VFW Booster Program was initiated by the year 1948. Its aim was to continue assistance to its main organizations by membership drives. Buckeye Pup Tent Charles Millard and Collin Small of initiated Operation Fire Department in 1950. It was completed by Ernie Moore and a fire department building with fire truck was acquired. The fire officers were commissioned with fees. The fees are through yearly contributions of money and equipment. This results in the growth of the department and run by those in the Home.

A scholarship fund was commenced by the Californian Grand Pup Tent which was then handled to the Supreme Scratch of Philadelphia. The amount of five hundred dollars for each year was further increased to two thousand five hundred. It was a very successful program.

The Military Order of the Cootie has been successful throughout its drive. It is men like them that one sees that veterans are able to show their lighter side to counterbalance the atrocities of former wars. These heroes up to now are striving with their ideals and many have already benefited from it.




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