Smoky Mountain Satellite members participated in Wreaths Across America ceremonies at Greenhill Cemetery in Waynesville, honoring local veterans through wreath placement. Members, including Donna Culp and Lonnie Pizza, assisted with the event, which was well attended by the community. Lonnie Pizza also contributed significant time supporting the effort beyond the ceremony itself.

Some of the members of the Woodfin Satellite met on November 21 at The Man Cave to support the 3rd Friday Free Veteran Lunch, a monthly community event serving local veterans. In November, WNC-MOAA sponsored and served lunch, providing meals to more than 30 veterans who attended.

Rod Honeycutt coordinated the gathering and provided a satellite update, while Steve Watkins shared chapter-level updates and upcoming activities. The event offered an opportunity for direct service to local veterans, some great conversations, and connections with veterans in the Woodfin area.

Members gathered at the Main Street Diner in Waynesville for the final Smoky Mountain Satellite meeting of the year. The informal setting encouraged conversation and connection, and the group welcomed Betsy Bird and Roger Gilmore, both former Navy officers, as new participants.

The Smoky Mountain Satellite held a well-attended meeting in Waynesville that combined fellowship and productive discussion. The group also confirmed access to hold future meetings at VFW Post 5202 in Waynesville (the post with the Huey helicopter), opening the door to additional meeting options, including potential evening gatherings.

During this period, the Satellite welcomed three new members: Betsy Bird, CAPT, USN (Ret.), Joy Deitle, and Roger Gilmore, CDR, USN (Ret.).

Smoky Mountain Satellite Update

On 17 January 2025, WNC MOAA Chapter members worked alongside other Haywood County veterans’ organizations to remove wreaths from veteran gravesites at Greenhill Cemetery in Waynesville. Annually in December, wreaths are placed on the veteran’s gravesites in remembrance of their service.

WNC MOAA members Lonnie Pizza (3rd from right) and John O’Donnell (4th from right) work with other veterans to remove wreaths,

The next Smoky Mountain Satellite meeting will be held 27 March 2025 at 1500 at West Bridge Vocational. Their facility is located at 140 Little Savannah Road, Sylva, NC 28779.

We are delighted to share that the recent June 2024 Smoky Mountain Satellite get-together was a fantastic success! Held at the charming Crepes & Custard on the picturesque Lake Junaluska, this event provided a wonderful opportunity for members to connect and enjoy a delightful morning together.

Highlights of the Event:

Great Location: Crepes & Custard offered a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for our gathering.

Organized by John O'Donnell: A big thank you to John for putting together such a well-organized meeting.

Delicious Breakfast: Members savored a variety of delicious crepes and custards while engaging in meaningful conversations.

Scenic Hike: After the breakfast meeting, some attendees took advantage of the beautiful weather and went for a short, refreshing hike around the lake.

We appreciate everyone who was able to attend and look forward to more enjoyable events like this in the future. Stay tuned for announcements about upcoming get-togethers and activities!

Join Us Next Time!

Whether you’re a long-time member or new to WNC-MOAA, we encourage you to join our future events. These gatherings are a fantastic way to build camaraderie and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of our region.

Keep an eye on our website and newsletter for details about our next event. We look forward to seeing you there!

October 8th, The Woodfin Satellite held a meeting at the Man Cave Ministries location in Woodfin. After starting with a great meal Rod Honeycutt, the Woodfin Satellite Chair had arranged three short presentations. The first presenter was Dan Jackson, the Madison County Veterans Service Officer (VSO). Dan introduced himself and then spoke about what he, as a VSO, can do for Veterans, Veteran's family members and Veteran's caregivers. Next up was Mr. Steve Ward, the Founder of the Man Cave Ministries. Steve talked about the history of the Man Cave Ministries and how the Man Cave helps the local community, including local veterans, first responders and those in need. The last presenter was Peter Champagne, COL, USA (Ret) the Founder and Executive Director of Unbroken Spirit. Unbroken Spirit is an Asheville based organization that helps veterans transform their lives through holistic wellbeing training.

With Craig Love stepping down as the Smoky Mountain Chair, John O'Donnell (CDR, USN, (Ret)) has stepped up to lead the Smoky Mountain Satellite. Meet John:

A graduate of the University of Illinois-Chicago, John was commissioned through OCS in 1982. A qualified Surface Warfare Officer, he has served on USS New Orleans (LPH-11), USS Reeves (CG-24), USS Waddell (DDG-24), Destroyer Squadron Seven, USS Ranger (CV-61), USS Constellation (CV-64), and USS Thach (FFG-43). He has also served in two Navy Training Commands and graduated from the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College. He is a qualified Joint Specialty Officer. After retirement, he was a city planner for 15 years of two suburbs of San Diego, CA. Relocating to WNC in 2022, he and his wife Stephanie live in Waynesville, NC. We share a house with an Alaskan Malamute, LOKI and spend our time exploring the geography and geology of the area.