The "Exit Interview"
It is common practice to hold an interview when a person when he/she is leaving a position. It is felt that questions which would be uncomfortable when employed at the firm, would be answered truthfully since there would be no repercussions. Well, although I’m not going anywhere, no longer being President allows me to comment on a few things - some negative, but mostly positive.
My greatest concern is that we refuse to really get serious about getting new members. This has to be done at the region level and by everyone. You know your neighbours and you know what families of HK vets live in your area. Get out there and get at least one new member to join especially if they are elated in any way to a HK vet. We really have no excuse for not having at least 1975 members - one for every member of “C” Force.
Another concern is the lack of willingness to serve on regional councils. We’re not speaking of a large commitment of time here, but someone has to organize and control. We have been so lucky to have great people serving in the regions, but it is not fair to rely on them for everything. Please consider taking part of the tasks off them.
Finally I would like more of you to give suggestions about things you would like to see undertaken or about things currently being done, but perhaps not handled the best way.
OK - that done, let me say what has delighted me. I cannot express how delighted I am with the progress made on education. Those involved have done a marvellous job and continue to come up with exciting new approaches. There are still many that do not know about Canada’s involvement in Hong Kong, but many now do - especially our children. The schools are really opening up to us and the HK story. I am so grateful to those that have been active. What we have accomplished is remarkable. I receive comments almost daily about our association and so many other veteran organizations are envious.
For those of you that have not heard, I have been elected a Vice-Chair of the National Council of Veterans Associations. We (HKVA) are a member so I’m just paying our dues as my wife says, out of one frying pan into another.
So thank you to all of you that made my term as President so pleasant. I’ll continue to see you all, just not seated in front. Keep well,
Derrill