Dennis Stephens of Vienna will discuss his tour of duty as a C-130 pilot in the Vietnam War. All veterans, friends and public are invited to attend the Chapter 227, Vietnam Veterans of America Inc. meeting, Feb. 16 at 7:30 p. m., Neighbor's Restaurant, 262 D Cedar Lane, Vienna. Free. Call Len Ignatowski 703 255-0353 or www.geocites.com/vva227.
Army Sgt. Kathleen M. Verinder has been decorated with the Army Commendation Medal. The medal is awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Army, have distinguished themselves by acts of heroism, meritorious achievement or meritorious service. Additionally, she has been named the Fort McPherson, Atlanta, Ga., Installation Soldier of the Year. Verinder is a flute player assigned to the Army Ground Forces Band. She is the daughter of Sydney and Laura Verinder of Fairway Drive, Vienna. The sergeant graduated in 1999 from James Madison High School, Vienna, and earned a bachelor's degree in 2003 from the University of North Carolina, Greensboro.
Marine Corps Pvt. Jose A. Bolanos, son of Martha I. Kocvara of McLean, recently graduated from the Basic Preservation and Packaging course while assigned as a student to Marine Corps Combat Service Support Schools, Camp Lejeune, N.C. Bolanos is a 2000 graduate of George Mason High School of Falls Church and joined the Marine Corps in May 2005.