Membership Really Does Have Its Privileges

"Dear Kimberly,

"… did you know that almost 97% of Americans look the other way when we ask for help?

"As a DAV Supporter, you're in a truly elite group. You're the one who doesn't turn away … who hasn't forgotten the sacrifices our disabled vets made for you."

The letter thanked me on behalf of 3 million disabled vets — 131,776 of whom are right here in my state — 
and then invited me to 
join the Commanders Club.

"Its members are our top givers … the Americans with the best memories … who refuse to forget what our disabled vets did for them. In fact, the givers in your region are our best donors! Our Campaign Chairman, Gene Murphy, is very proud of your group from [State]."

Then later: "The campaign slogan is 'Never Quit'. You're no quitter either, Kimberly."

It wasn't until I'd been good and buttered up that we got to the card on page two.

"I've enclosed your 2012 Commanders Club Card and Certificate. To me, they're like little badges of honor. They tell everyone who sees them that you are on our side … replacing despair and discouragement with new hope and opportunities for the men and women who fought for us."

The postscript closed up the letter with a couple of twists on the usual lines, hyping the unusually special nature of DAV's card:

"P.S. I've enclosed a Certificate and a 2012 Collector's Edition of our Commanders Club card. If you join, put the certificate where everyone can see it. It's a badge of honor that sets you apart from the other 97% of Americans who choose to look the other way when we ask for help. And the card? Carry it proudly. It's our New Commemorative Collector's Edition. It's 
distinctive — just like you!"