Become a Member
The Veterans Brotherhood welcomes new members. You do not need to be a veteran to be a member. Our organization meets the first Thursday of the month at 7pm at the Lehigh Valley Active Life Center in Allentown, Pa.
Veterans Brotherhood Board Members
The Veterans Brotherhood owes its success to all of our incredible members.
Clyde Hoch, Founder/ President
"While doing research for a book I was writing based on veteran suicides, I became alarmed by the high number of veteran suicides. I wanted to do something about it. From this the Veterans Brotherhood organization was born."
Shane Schmeckenbecher, Vice President
Shane met Clyde Hoch through the Lehigh County Veteran’s Mentor program. Shane says, "What attracted me to his Veterans Brotherhood organization was that all of the members are volunteers. Nobody is paid. As an Army veteran who served in Iraq w the First Cavalry, I understand the importance of helping vets get the help they need."
Dennis Urffer, Grant Writer
"My passion to help Homeless Vets & Vets in Need, goes back to my father. He was a Marine in World War ll. I know my father suffered from PTSD, but never got help.I am a Vietnam Combat Veteran & was luckier than most. Now I want to give back to those who have done so much for our country."
Ernie Cressman, Fundraising
Ernie is our fund raising chairmen. He talks to store owners and event planners to get the word out about the VB and generate donations. His wife, Sheryl who is secretary of the VB, also helps w/these fundraising events. His daughter Tina also helps market our brand by selling products w/our logo. She also helps get the word out about VB on social media.
John Lancaster, Chaplin
John lost his hand in the Vietnam war. After meeting Clyde and Robert at a PTSD support group, John states, " I now have found a new goal in life helping our Brothers and Sisters in arms." John serves as our Chaplin, leading each meeting in prayer.
John Hinkle
An army veteran himself, John says, "Being involved w/the VB has been one of the greatest achievements of my life." John is a Lehigh country veterans mentor and president of the Allentown Rescue Mission board of directors.
Carolyn Debuque, Mentor Coordinator
Carolyn runs our mentoring program. She has 10 years experience mentoring veterans in both Bucks and Lehigh counties. She understands that veterans would rather talk to another veteran. She is retired from the Air National Guard.
Bryan Dunbar
Although not a veteran himself, Bryan believes strongly in the mission of the VB. After meeting Clyde he knew he wanted to be a part of this organization. Bryan has been with the VB from the very start. He actively participates in organization events.
Rachel Schmeckenbecher, Media
Rachel is our social media and webmaster. "As the wife of an Iraq war veteran, it was important to me to support veterans. Through social media platforms, our website, and facebook live meetings we are now able to spread the message of the VB beyond our local area."
Tina Edgerly, Merchandise
Tina gets the word out about Veterans Brotherhood through her merchandising. She keeps us stocked with badges, hats, shirts, sweatshirts and more! She can be found at most events with her incredible display. Please reach out on social media or via our contact form if you are interested in purchasing some VB swag!
Robert Pullen
Robert Pullen was Vice President of the Veterans Brotherhood for many years. He often traveled with the president to many events. Robert was a kind, gentle man who was respected by all. He was a Vietnam combat veteran. He was always willing to give his time to assist veterans. He is greatly missed by the members of the Veterans Brotherhood and the veteran community. Robert was laid to rest with full military honors.