August 8th, 2026

Past Commandant Andy Pucek and Vice Commandant ‘Papa’ Bill Crossley opened the meeting with prayer. Peter Swing and John Ostman were absent due to prior commitments.

Sick Call

Andy Pucek, while recently visiting the U.S., had a hospital emergency in New Jersey. He was taken to a private hospital, he mentioned that he was assisted by the VA Community Care Network. The Community Care Network (CCN) connects eligible veterans with local health care providers outside of VA facilities.

Member Richard Drake is recovering from triple bypass heart surgery. Steve Stoll is recovering from a surgical procedure in the U.S. George Lincoln Cole recently fell from a bus and is recovering. We keep them in our thoughts and prayers.

After a medical procedure, member Rudy Matthews mentioned the importance of having a check-up by a Dermatologist for any skin related care.

Paymaster Report

Andy Pucek reported we have a balance of $1,990, plus 876,000 colones.

Unfinished Business

The 251st Marine Corps Birthday Ball is scheduled for Tuesday, November 10th at the Barcelo Hotel, San José. Tickets are now on sale.

MCWLCR Toys for Tots Program begins collecting toys in October. We hope to collect 1,000 toys in 2026. We will plan to distribute toys to Children Services of Costa Rica, Hospital Mexico and the Children’s Hospital. Please, we need all hands on deck.

The First Annual MCWLCR Texas Hold’Em Poker Tournament at the Sheraton Hotel Casino, Escazú is scheduled for Thursday thru Saturday, September 24, 25 and 26. Member Charlton Chao mentioned the event is to help support the MCWLCR Toys for Tots Program and Todo Va A Estar Bien Foundation. The buy-in is ¢50,000. We hope to have 150 players, we need members to contribute time and effort to support the tournament. More information to follow.

A Golf Tournament is planned for the first week of December at the Valle del Sol Golf Course, Pozos, San José. Buy-in is $100 to $200. More info to follow.

Meeting adjourned at 10:50.