October 11th, 2025

Commandant Peter Swing called the meeting to order. Nineteen members were in attendance. The minutes of the previous meeting were read. Donuts and coffee were provided.

Sick Call

Anthony Garcia has been tested for anemia, a blood disorder. Steve Stoll had a prostate procedure in the U.S. recently. Howard Cole is dealing with prostate cancer—our thoughts and prayers to all.

Paymaster Report

Andy Pucek stated we have a balance of $825, plus 914,000 colones, Toys for Tots 35,000 colones. A generous donation of $500 was received from Founding member Bob Brice. Andy has added $250 to our dollar account and converted $250 into colones to our Toys for Tots account. Thank you, Bob Brice.

Toys for Tots

Bring your unwrapped toys to future meetings. Peter mentioned that this year we will distribute toys at the Hospital Nacional de Niños in San José, and Rio Oro PANI (CR Child Services) Orphanage, and Aldeas Infantiles SOS Costa Rica. More info to follow. We continue to seek sponsors.

Old Business

Certificates of Appreciation were presented to Bill ‘Papa’ Crossley and Bob Brice for their generous support of the Toys for Tots program.

Peter mentioned that the meeting for the Junior ROTC Program at Berkeley Academy was attended by 22 interested students, and on hand were volunteers Eddie Casco and Andy Pucek.

Peter thanked all those who attended the Ricardo Bernal concert for the Todo Va a Estar Bien Foundation at Berkeley Academy. Thanks to Dave Arnn for his sponsorship.

The planned 250th Marine Corps Anniversary will take place at the Santa Ana Country Club on Saturday evening, October 25th. Members, please wear your cover, formal attire.

Member Michael Barboza has invited the MCWLCR to participate in the ‘Festival of Lights Santa Ana’ on December 18-20th. More info to follow. Thank you, Michael.

The basketball backboard project will be held on Tuesday, October 21st, starting at 10 a.m. at the home of member, Henry Elizando, 506-8312-1256. All are welcome to help, with cold beer and roast pork ribs. Join us. Thank you, Henry.

New Business

Member Carlos Grijalva Jr will be relocating to Florida, U.S., returning a few times a year. Carlos mentioned his dealings with Patriot Benefit Consulting, who are dedicated to ensuring that veterans receive the disability examination that they deserve, helping with their VA disability benefits (https://patriotbenefitconsulting.com). Thank you, Carlos, and good luck.

Peter presented Berkeley Academy senior student, Mariana, who will assist Peter with veteran benefits and U.S. citizen rights. Peter has talked with the Sr. Vice President of CIMA Hospital, David Mair, relating to veterans’ care and the TRICARE healthcare program.

Member Eddie Casco mentioned that he has been very pleased with the care and information he is receiving from Veteran Specialist Paula Zamora Salas at CIMA Hospital. Paula Zamora Salas can be reached at 506-2208-1091 to discuss veterans’ care and the TRICARE healthcare program.

The meeting adjourned at 1102.