2015 1st Quarter Hoosier Legionnaire

Pistol raffle aims to shoot assistance gap Story by William E. Henry, communications director

the money will be going to a great cause for fellow veterans.

Indianapolis – The Depart“We were looking toward ment of Indiana has two the future of our organizaAmerican Legion Cention and what this money tennial Commemorative could go toward. We noPistols going to raffle this ticed some holes in our curyear and proceeds will rent program funds and we be used to fund two new decided to fill those holes causes. The first pistol is the with the proceeds of these Department Commemora- pistols,” said Hylton. tive Pistol number 1 of 100, The first fund, the Dethe other is the Legionnaire partment Conservancy pistol number 2 of 100.

Fund, will ensure the nonDepartment Cmdr. Ken essential operational costs Hylton requested and for the new Department gained approval from the building and grounds can be Department Finance Com- covered in the future. This mittee Jan. 9 during the fund would not be initiated Mid-Winter Conference until 2016 to allow a cost Finance Committee Meetcomparison analysis to be ing to use the proceeds of completed over a one-year these two raffles to create period. This fund will allow two new permanent funds flags to be purchased for the in The American Legion, flagpole display outside the Department of Indiana. new building, grounds to According to the manube groomed and maintained facturer, Au Guns, these seasonally, and will provide pistols are selling quickly, money to regularly maintain this makes them in greater any improvements made to demand and collectabilthe building and grounds in ity. Both pistols are low the future. make numbers of a series The second fund, the of only 100 each and only Veterans Emergency Relief 500 tickets will be sold for Fund, will provide emereach pistol in the raffle. A gency relief funds to Hoosingle raffle ticket purchase sier veterans in immediate is $100 and makes overall need without regard of the odds 1:500 for each pistol. presence or absence of chilThis is great odds to claim dren in the home. a commemorative pistol of Current Legion assistance your own, but even more; programs, the Temporary

Department Centennial Pistol Financial Assistance, Child Welfare Fund and the Disaster Relief Fund are all based around families with children in the household.

The VER fund is scheduled to begin immediately after the raffle is completed.

All veterans in need do not necessarily have children according to Department Veteran Assistance Coordinator Butch Miller.

He said this fund is a crucial gap in the assistance program that must be filled.

“We had to turn away a number of veterans during this last holiday season with nowhere else to go,” said Miller. To turn these veterans away with nothing in hand made us feel helpless and potentially placed these veterans in dire straits.”

Hylton said this particu-

lar assistance program will begin to mend a gap in the current assistance programs to help veterans in all walks of life.

“It is likely these veteran’s spirits were broken in a time of great need, said Hylton. That’s not something we can continue to do.

We have to be there to (Continued on Page 4)

Prison Post named in honor of fallen Hoosier

“It’s about respect to Kyle prison terms, they are makand honoring his legacy. ing an effort to do someI think it’s an honor they thing positive. want to name this post after “He would’ve been proud Kyle,” said Hinton. of these men meeting and Hinton, who has been an having a chance to do Auxiliary member for more something with their lives,” than 40 years, attended the said Hinton. “These men, event with her husband and they may be incarcerated, Kyle’s grandmother. She but they’re still veterans. said Kyle always loved the My son would be proud to Legion and couldn’t wait to know they are doing somecome home and share his thing good,” said Hinton. story with other LegionThe post chaplain, Tasco naires.

Williams, from Fort Wayne, “He couldn’t wait to beInd., said this post and its come a Legion member. He programs create camaradewas thrilled at that he could rie and a sense of accountsit and tell stories and have ability for those involved. a beer with other Soldiers “When you say, ‘I’m that have been deployed.

American Legion,’ you He never got a chance to do have to walk that walk,” that,” said Hinton. said Williams. “You have to The typical American Le- stand with your chest high, gion post imagined by most head high, and say, ‘I have people isn’t what resides to be better than what is behind the towering concer- expected.’”

Donna Hinton, mother of fallen Indiana Soldier Spc. Kyle Snyder, accepts a plaque from Derek Williams, post commander, during a renaming ceremony for Post 398 at Wabash Valley Correctional Facility, Thurs- tina wire and walls of the “We want to reach out day, Oct. 30 2014. Prominent Legionnaires, prison staff, mentors and approximately 40 Legionnaires in correctional facility. and show that we are better the facility were present for the ceremony.

There’s no drinking or than what society portrays,” Story and photos by Indiana renaming ceremony smoking in this Legion said Williams. “Not only William E. Henry, commu- held at the Wabash Valley post. Hinton stressed that are we holding ourselves to nications director Correctional Facility in even though this group of higher standards, but others Carlisle, Ind., Oct. 30. veterans made mistakes in to higher standards.”

Carlisle, Ind. – Indiana Kyle, who was born and their lives, and are serving National Guard Soldier raised in Carlisle, Ind., will Spc. Kyle Snyder, who was now have his name attached killed in Afghanistan in to Post 398. Kyle’s mother, 2005 while deployed with Donna Hinton, gave her the 76th Infantry Brigade, approval to rename the post was honored at an Ameriand said she supported his Dept. Cmdr. Hylton Message Page 2 can Legion, Department of name being used.

Leading Legionnaire Letters PAgEs 2-3

IN THIS ISSUE

Congratulations to Joseph Schuman!

The $3,000 Semi-Annual Fundraiser Drawing winner from St. Leon Post 464

Districts Commanders Pages 5 & 6 Legionnaire usable ad Page 7 Holiday Giving Page 8 Veterans Service Department Page 9 Cmdr. Helm Tour Highlights Page 9 Programs and updates Page 12

Leading Legionnaire Letters O

ne of the most interesting, but sometimes frustrating, tasks of the Department Commander is the preparation of the Commander’s Message for the Hoosier Legionnaire. Some issues, there is just nothing to write about. That is not the case this issue.

As the year crosses the midway point, I reflect on all that has occurred, all that we have accomplished, and all that we have left to do. I am amazed and impressed with the energy, the imagination and the determination of our members across the state. I came into office committed to “Building Bridges for the Future,” but we have gone beyond that. We are creating new roads rarely or never traveled by this organization.

The move to the new headquarters was accomplished just before I was elected to office, and the transition from one location to the other was not without some bumps. It was well planned and well executed under the leadership of Past Department Commander Ed Trice. Something none of us expected was the turnover in staff that followed. Such changes are always unsettling, and this was no exception. But I was gratified and encouraged by the response of our members as that major change unfolded. I will always be grateful to you for the patience and understanding you extended to our new, young staff members as they went about learning their duties and responsibilities. The enthusiasm and fire they bring to their tasks, the innovation and energy they put into everything, has made the transition a positive one.

Be assured our staffers are in the hands of a very experienced manager, Department Adjutant Hugh Dagley. Hugh has provided this Department with a high level of Legion knowledge and shown pure determination for our Department’s success. I believe we would not be where we are had he not been there to direct our staffing situation.

There will be mistakes; make no mistake about it. There will be false starts and frustrations ahead, but I know that you will lend your support as we move forward. I expect that, and I believe that our staff deserves that.

We have new programs and committees, not the least among which is the Post Education Committee, which will develop training and education techniques and materials for Districts to present to Posts that, in their judgment, need a little refresher.

We have approved a multi-year chairman for the Strategic Planning Committee, which will lend an air of permanence and continuity to our planning for the future.

We have launched a new post development initiative that aims to involve places of worship as alternatives to the more traditional American Legion posts, and focuses on providing more young people access to our value-laden youth programs.

Our Legislative Committee has taken the initiative in setting forth legislative priorities that we expect to see debated and, hopefully, enacted

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he Department has just completed another successful Mid-Winter Conference, although inclement weather cut into attendance as Legionnaires from around the state encountered hazardous road conditions and other factors that kept some of them away. Those who braved the trip found much helpful information and a full slate of committee meetings to keep them occupied.

A recurring frustration for many of our members who attend the conferences is the over-lapping schedule of meetings and seminars that often prevents them from attending all the meetings they are assigned to or the training sessions that are important to them. Scheduling is constantly evaluated and the Department Staff makes every effort to accommodate as many of the conferees as possible. It isn’t always possible.

Because the Department of Indiana is so large, and because the range of interests is vast, there are a lot of moving parts in one of our conferences. The MidWinter Conference is especially challenging because we bring in outside experts for some of our seminars, and their schedules often limit our options in scheduling.

This year’s conference called for 59 separate meetings in 19 available meeting rooms. It all was packed into nine hours, and some meetings required as many as four rooms, and some of the meetings last as long as four hours.

Four of the training sessions were conducted by non-Legion volunteers whose personal schedules limited the times that they would be available, and those personal schedules need to be respected if we are to have them return for future seminars.

Although we make every effort to accommodate as many competing schedules as possible, not all training is appropriate for all members and not all training will be accessible to all. Depending on their interests and responsibilities, members are encouraged to choose from among the offerings and attend those sessions most useful to them. Those who do attend also are encouraged to carry their new-found information back to the districts for presentation to others who could not participate.

There have been a number of helpful suggestions concerning the set-up for future conferences, and the Department will make every effort to institute those changes where possible. I appreciate all of your suggestions and comments. *** The Department Executive Committee considered only a handful of resolutions at its session following the conference. Most noteworthy, however, was a resolution that did not come before the DEC but rather was referred to the Department Finance Committee for consideration at the next scheduled meeting.

Res. #2015M01 entitled “Dept. Directory,” was presented in response to an October Finance Committee decision to proceed with preparation of an on-line Department Directory. While the committee’s decision did not authorize an end to the current printed directory, many members understood the committee’s decision to signal just that. The Department Finance Officer reported to the DEC, from the minutes of the previous

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by the General Assembly. What sets this year apart from previous years that we have set forth objectives and priorities, without regard to specific bills and sponsors. This allows us to support legislative outcomes that we know to be in the interest of Indiana veterans, and makes us more nimble and able to react to the legislative process quickly and appropriately.

And, we are developing a strategy for closing a glaring deficiency in our veterans assistance programs – that of helping our comrades in need who are alone. Most, if not all Legion assistance programs are aimed at protecting children; absent a minor child in the home, too often no emergency assistance is available. We want to remedy that.

We’ll do that though an exciting raffle program that we are launching this month. You can read details of the raffle on the front page of this issue, but it is essentially a once-in a-lifetime chance to own an almostone-of-a-kind special edition .45 Cal. Pistol designed to commemorate the 100th anniversary of The American Legion. The department is raffling Pistol Number 1 of 100 department-edition pistols, and Pistol Number 2 of 100 individual member-edition pistols.

Proceeds from the raffle of one pistol will be used to set up the assistance program for veterans without children in the home; proceeds from the other will be restricted to enhancing, not maintaining or occupying, the new Department headquarters.

The Department, when it purchased the current headquarters building, also acquired undeveloped property adjacent to it, which opens a broad and inviting vista for the future. Department leadership has decided to go slow on the original proposal for the use of the property – the construction of an outdoor pavilion -- as additional information and support is gathered. It is no secret that dealing with four layers of bureaucracy made the Department’s task in developing the property almost impossible. In addition, escalating costs imposed by different agencies and layers of government priced the pavilion almost out of reach and forced some Districts to question whether or not they could afford to participate.

There is so much more to report, and so little space. We are preparing to join our neighbors to the west, the Department of Illinois, in honoring the memory of Abraham Lincoln, in our traditional Lincoln Pilgrimage to the martyred president’s tomb. We are less than a month away from the annual Washington conference where we will meet with members of the Indiana Congressional Delegation to discuss veterans’ issues. And the Spring Conference is just around the corner. We are looking forward to a full slate of joint meetings with the Auxiliary, a visit from the leading candidate for National commander, and all the other guests and activities that characterize the annual Joint Spring Conference.

Finally, on behalf of Carol and myself, I want to thank you all for the great hospitality, the respect and encouragement I have received as your commander, and the support and patience you have extended to us wherever we have gone this year. And I would be remiss if I did not say a special ‘thank you’ to my officers and the men and women of The American Legion family for their gifts and kind thoughts during the Christmas holiday. It was an outpouring of affection and generosity that is truly humbling.

All of you, as you stand with us as The American Legion Family, are truly “Building Bridges for The Future.”

Finance Committee meeting, that the intent of the decision was to produce both, which will continue.

Following some debate, Res. #2015M03, entitled “Support of Nutrition Programs of the Purdue Cooperative Extension Service” was defeated by a voice vote of the members.

Two resolutions from previous DEC meeting, one of which was not presented to the committee in October and one of which was returned to the originator for further study were taken up.

Res #2014F02, entitled “Suits for Vets,” was approved in revised form.

The resolution calls on Legion posts and members to support a program of providing appropriate, serviceable business attire for veterans headed out for job interviews and other appointments.

Res. #2014F04, amends Res. 09 Conv-2, authorizes the Department Commander to appoint a chairman of the Strategic Planning Committee to a term of three years. Commander Ken Hylton has tabbed PDC Robert E. Newman, a Past National Vice Commander for that position.

The Committee also received and filed one endorsement resolution from the 8th District, in which Ronnie D. Hangar, from New Albany’s Bonnie Sloan Post 28, was endorsed for Southern Vice Commander.

HOOSIER LEGIONNAIRE 1st Quarter 2015

Twitter @IndyLegion

Leading Legionnaire Letters At mid-winter conference I was afforded

whose lives may be made richer and fuller. We are about reaching individuals one life at a time.

Yesterday was a full day with a Post funeral and a county veteran’s the opportunity to make council meeting. What a privilege to be part of a day-long series of rituthree presentations about als at the funeral home, cemetery and Post home to support a family. The process began several days before the funeral - upon hearing of the death Commander Hylton’s program to start Legion and in comforting family and post members who were in grief. I am Posts in churches. I was aware that there are communities in our state where there are no veteran service organizations to provide such a service not only to members, but able to share about our also to any veteran’s family who dies. How would we feel if the funeral pilot program at North Vernon where there is a director informed us that there was no one to offer graveside services?

Last evening after our veterans council meeting I spent a couple of need for a Legion Post hours sharing with individual veterans about their service needs, PTSD, and where there have been previous failures to military experiences, etc. It was very fruitful and meaningful. Awesome do this. Both the church dialogue abounded and opportunities were provided for veterans to help veterans. Each one wanted to be about something meaningful for veterand the American Legion overlap and support similar interests that can ans and their community. It was also vital that veterans found a place to make this a win/win situation for both groups. share with veterans.

Both the church and the American Legion believe in God and seek to I find that our younger veterans are not looking for a club to join, but please God in fulfilling the mission that God has directed. Both want to to be a part of an organization that can make a change. They don’t want be responsive to their community, making it a better place to live. Both to hear that they can’t do this or that they have to wait to do that, but are are concerned about children and youth and desire to provide programs looking for what they can do now. There is a real interest to be a part of that will simulate growth assisting them to have a fruitful and fulfilling life. Both are concerned about persons in need in their community. Cer- an organization that takes “our devotion to mutual helpfulness” to heart.

After this meeting, I continued to share with a few persons who were tainly, we could develop a long list of parallels. grieving the loss of our member who was just buried. What a shame that While not every church is a good candidate for this partnership, there are many who are. We first must explore the reasons for partnership and there are communities where there is either no American Legion or a for an emphasis on growth. Sometimes with our constant push for mem- Post that is not conducive to reaching out to others.

There are veterans and communities that need us! There are veterans bership I feel we can get so wrapped up in numbers that we loose sight and veteran families that will find wholeness and fulfillment only in the of our mission. I know that the size of our organization means power, acts of giving and sharing with others. We are in the people business not influence, money and a future and that the opposite of growth is death. the number business. Numerical growth must be a byproduct of reaching However, growth is not about us, but those who need us. out. In this we share many similarities with institutions of faith and by While Department officers do wear a specific uniform, we are not a working together we may well help each other fulfill our mission. fleet of executive salespersons trying to inspire a group of junior salespersons in some pyramid scheme of marketing. We are a service orgaAs God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe your selves with comnization. One who cares about the services that we specifically offer to our community, state and nation. These services are about the individuals passion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Col. 3:12 NRSV

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o matter what level you are involved in the American Legion organization, the most important facet is membership.

Membership determines representation in voting rights, delegation strength, and pools for different talents needed to keep the organization vibrant. Every member is responsible for the success of the organization. The best way to insure this is to actively participate by continuously seeking to enlist new members to join our ranks. On the national level our strength in numbers insures that our public politicians are aware that we are united in keeping an adequate budget for the Veteran’s Administration. We are the largest “watchdog” of the VA. We have tools developed to help in this task. Brochures and application forms are available at most posts and at the department level explaining why you should join. The Department recently re-activated the “ARM” Program. The acronym stands for “Always Remember Membership.”

What it entails is a simple packet with the three copies of application for Membership to the three Legion organizations: The American Legion, the Auxiliary, and the Sons of The American Legion. The program has been introduced down to the district level. I ask you to contact a district vice commander or the commander of your district to arm you with these packets. Better yet, have the program entered into your respective Legion post. Arm every member with this packet. Many times when we encounter an eligible Veteran interested in joining the Legion, we find that we do not have the necessary application forms; hence force, this little packet saves the possibility of losing that Veteran to procrastination in joining the American Legion.

We have many awards for promoting Membership in our Organization. National Commander, Mike Helm, has a commemorative pin for everyone who signs up three new members. These same three new members also qualify you for a Department of Indiana Star Award. Sign up two additional members, and you will receive a second Star Award.

A third Star is awarded when you sign up two additional members for a total of seven. Don’t stop there. Sign up three more (ten total), and you will be awarded Indiana’s Medallion. Sign up an additional five (total of fifteen), and you will be awarded the “Five Star Cluster” Pin. You will be entered into a drawing for a paid up membership or cash equivalent should you already be a PUFL Member. The Award could have very big monetary value to a young “Gulf War” Member. If you sign up a young member, make them aware of the benefit to bring fifteen companions into the American Legion. The National organization adds these additional Awards: *Gold (50) Brigade Recruiter (Jacket with Gold Brigade and Gold Pin) *Silver (25) Brigade Recruiter (Certificate and Silver Pin) *Department Recruiter of the Year (Certificate) *National Recruiter of the Year (National Convention VIP Status and New Cap with National Recruiter on it) To apply for any of these awards, the initial certification starts at the post level. Post adjutants can download National Certification Forms at www.thenationalamericanlegion.org. To qualify for the Department of Indiana Membership Awards the recruiter’s name should be added to the new member’s card that they enlisted. Of course, I have only listed the individual awards that are available. There are also post, district, and Department level membership awards. The incentives and awards are there to be won. If our Membership increases, then we all win because our influence in Congress increases.

When recruiting a new member, remind them that they are standing alone as a Veteran; however, should they join the American Legion, they stand with 2.4 million Veterans. Tell them about the many Children and Youth Programs our posts sponsor in the community. The Legion also supports wounded veterans in their rehabilitation process. Ask them if they used the GI Bill for education which was created and authored by the American Legion. Ask them if they believe in the principles of the American Legion, then join us, “Together We Can.” What a feeling of success it is to persuade someone to come join us in membership in our American Legion.

In closing, if your American Legion Card does not say 2015 after Dec. 31, you need to protect your own Membership in this great Organization and re-new today.

A lternate NEC Jerry Jordan and I attended

the fall NEC meetings in Oct. In addressing the NEC, National Commander Michael Helm began with a reminder that the American Legion is a “ God and Country” organization and ended with a challenge to the department officials present to return home and “stoke the fires” of the Legion presence in their communities.

The Department of Indiana was privileged to hear this message from Commander Helm when he visited the Department in Nov. Several members of the Department Legion Family traveled the state visiting several districts and memorials of the state with the Commander. His message always ended with him telling us of his flight and seeing lights below representing many communities. He related these lights as campfires and each representing American Legion Posts in each of these communities and call them “Fires of Freedom”.

Not only did we celebrate Commander Helm’s visit but we also had the opportunity to recognized, and show appreciation of our Veterans on Veterans Day and to exercise our patriotic duty to vote for members of Congress and the Senate. There are going to be many challenges coming forth that will be a major focus that members will be taking to the “Hill” to discuss with our Representatives. I can assure you that when the delegation from Indiana go to Washington in Feb. we will take the concerns and message of the American Legion Family.

At our Midwinter Conference National Vice Commander and his wife Bertie were our guest. Commander Bryant visited several of our meetings and also delivered the Commanders message reminding the members of National Commander Helm’s 4x4 project. The Four Pilars – Americanism, National Security, Veteran Affairs & Rehabilitation, and Children & Youth; $ 4 million dollars to the Legion Charities, NEF, Endowment Fund, Legacy Scholarship Fund, Child Welfare Foundation, Operation Comfort Warriors, and Soldier’s Wish; and 4 million in membership of the American Legion, SAL, and Auxiliary combined.

H ere are some resources are available to help

you write your post’s history Previous articles in this column have contained encouragement for the post PR or historian to begin the process of writing the history of the post in anticipation of the upcoming 100th anniversary of The American Legion in 2018.

What follows is a description of how some of that information can be unearthed from resources available from your Department Headquarters.

A major scanning exercise of important documents at Department Headquarters has been underway in the past year. This is important in a number of ways.

Firstly, much of this paper-based material has a short life due to age and the previous storage conditions in which they were kept; this will preserve that information.

Secondly, an estimated 12 file cabinet drawers containing paper have been eliminated, saving valuable space.

Thirdly, some of the scans have been created in optical character recognition (OCR) format so that searching some of these documents by key word is now possible.

Fourthly, these computer files can be sent to members of the post very easily and cheaply.

Currently, you can request from Department Headquarters the following: *Delegates to conventions Legionnaires selected from posts from the Department of Indiana to attend the annual national convention for the following years: 1950— 1954; 1962—1968; 1971—1981.

(CONTINUED ON PAGE 11)

HOOSIER LEGIONNAIRE 1st Quarter 2015

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Indiana LEgion Auxiliary H

appy New Year and welcome to 2015. I hope you enjoyed your Holidays and are ready to focus your time and energy towards working the Auxiliary Programs and assisting our Veterans. When you are complaining about this cold winter weather, take a moment and think about our Homeless Veterans. These temperatures aren’t just an inconvenience to them, it could be life threatening. What can you, your post, unit or squadron do to help them survive?

I hope you will take the time to find a way to help.

Have you paid your 2105 dues? If not, please find your Unit membership Chairman and help us reach our goal. It isn’t just about reaching a goal. Your dues help fund our programs and in turn, help us assist our Children and Youth and our Veterans. If you are a Legion or SAL member, are all of the ladies in your life Auxiliary members?

I have truly enjoyed traveling throughout the state and visiting with members of the Legion Family. Your hospitality and kindness is heartwarming. Speaking of traveling, I was able to make the trip to Boonville Post 200 for their annual auction. What a great way to spend the Thanksgiving weekend. To top off the auction, I was surprised when I opened the final item and found an engagement ring from John Widmann! John had help arranging the surprise and we all enjoyed a good laugh when I tried to outbid him for the final auctioned item.

I am looking forward to attending the Lincoln Pilgrimage trip to Illinois. This will be my first time taking this trip and I can’t wait to go.

Of course several members of The Legion Family will be traveling to Washington D.C. in February for the National Awareness Conference. It is a chance for our Legion family to share their concerns and visions for our Soldiers and Veterans.

Once the month of March hits it will be time to get back on the road visiting with the districts and units. This is my favorite part of being the Department president. I look forward to seeing everyone soon.

UPCOMING AUXILIARY Calendar

Indiana Legion Auxiliary President Lisa Liford gets a surprise when SAL Member John Widmann presented her with an engagement ring during the at Boonville Post 200 auction.

The artwork of Junior Auxiliary member Chloe Brady, Unit 44, was chosen for the 2015 December calendar for Riley Hospital for Children. Go Chloe!

With Love for Our Country, Lisa Liford, department president

February – Americanism & Legislative 11-12th Lincoln Pilgrimage, Springfield, IL 12th Lincoln’s Birthday 14th Valentine’s Day 16th President’s Day (Office Closed) 22nd Washington’s Birthday 22-25th DC Conference March – Community Service 14th All District Party, Marion VAMC 15th American Legion Birthday 17th St. Patrick’s Day 28th IVH Junior Fun Day & Mtg, W. Lafayette, Unit 492 - 9:30am April – Children & Youth 3rd Good Friday (Office Closed) 4th 7th District Visitation, Bloomington, Unit 18 – 1:30pm 5th Easter 9-12th Joint Spring Conference, Marriott East Hotel, Indpls, IN 14th 10th District Visitation, Shelbyville, Unit 70- 10am

Indiana Sons Of the LEgion W

e are almost half way through our year.

If you haven’t paid your 2015 dues, please do so. you are needed. Also, Legionnaires, if you are eligible to be a member of the Sons, we can use your knowledge as well.

Booneville Post 200 held their annual auction.

We all had a great time.

Sheila and I had a wonderful time and enjoyed everyone’s hospitality.

A reminder to our Legionnaires, if your son is a high school senior, will be attending college the 2015-2016 school year, and a Sons of the American Legion member in good standing in an Indiana squadron, they still have time to apply for our $1,000 Sons Scholarship Competition.

This scholarship is unique because it is based only on a member’s involvement in activities of our organization rather than academic achievement or financial need.

Completed applications and required attachments must be postmarked no later than June 1, 2015 and mailed to the Department Headquarters directed to the SAL. The winner is scheduled to be announced at the closing session of our Detachment Convention on the morning of Sunday, July 12, 2015. For more information and an application go to the following link. http://www.in-sal.org/wp-content/uploads/downloads/2014/11/2015_ SAL_Scholarship.pdf We will definitely be back next year.

Also, a reminder of the Sons Legion Family Campout scheduled to be I have tried to visit all the Districts in the state. If I haven’t been to at the Jonesboro Post 95 Campground June 12-14. The Campout is open your District, I will visit in the very near future. If you have an event you to all Legion Family Members. Sign up and come and enjoy a fun filled wish me to attend, do not hesitate to contact me. If at all possible, I will weekend. be there.

In closing, I hope everyone had a safe and joyous holiday season. ReMy project for this year is to raise $10,000 for much needed medical member, JUST ASK. equipment at Indiana Veterans Home. We are making progress towards Thanks for all you do, this goal, but there is still much to be done. Your tax deductible donation Ron will be appreciated by our worthy Veterans.

Sons donate to Ernie Pyle Museum Pistols The Indiana Detachment of the Sons of the American Legion donated more than $14,600 to the Friends of Ernie Pyle organization located in Dana, Ind. The 2013-2014 Detachment Commander Kirk Rewerts, presented a check to Friends of Ernie Pyle Board Member Stephen Key at the annual meeting of the Sons in Indianapolis, Oct. 4, 2014.

The Friends of Ernie Pyle own and operate the Ernie Pyle World War II Museum in Dana and preserves the legacy of World War II’s most famous correspondent and that generation.

Key told the Sons’ assemblage in Indianapolis that the two organizations share a common goal. The SAL honors the sacrifice of their veteran parents and grandparents. The Friends of Ernie Pyle honor the sacrifice of the generation that lived in the era of the Great Depression and World War II. Both mutually benefit by preserving the writings and memory of Ernie Pyle.

Rewerts, from Crawfordsville, Ind., led the fundraising effort for his term as the Indiana Sons of the American Legion commander. Rewerts

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Cont’d

Ernie Pyle’s Indiana Home and museum in Dale, Ind. Photo from erniepyle.org .

asked all 11 SAL District members to meet a goal of $1,000 per district to help preserve the birthplace and museum dedicated to one of Indiana’s most famous veterans. The Indiana Detachment surpassed Rewerts’ request by nearly one-third giving $14,638.

Rewerts said the initial idea originated with Past Detachment Commander Rodney Strong of Veedersburg, Ind. Rewerts decided to pursue the idea

when he was elevated to commander.

“I wanted to honor Ernie Pyle’s contribution to the war effort,” Rewerts said.

“He was in the foxholes with the soldiers reporting what was going on to the country. That was very notable.”

Key said he hoped the donation would continue a friendship between the two organizations and invited everyone to visit the museum in Vermillion

County.

Dana is Pyle’s hometown and is located on State Road 71 one mile north of U.S. Route 36 in western Indiana. The museum is closed for winter, but tours are available upon request by contacting the museum at 765-665-3633. For more information about the museum please visit, www.erniepyle.org.

HOOSIER LEGIONNAIRE 1st Quarter 2015

lift veterans when they need it most, and we are aiming to help our brothers and sisters for years to come.”

The raffle drawing is scheduled to happen at the 2015 Department Convention and will include an exclusive drawing event. Each holder of a raffle ticket and one guest will be invited to attend the event to witness someone, or to experience on their own, a pistol raffle that marks 100 years of The American Legion serving our nation’s veterans, their families and communities.

The Department Temporary Financial Assistance Fund will be the first among all American Legion Departments and will leave a lasting legacy for Dept. Cmdr.

Ken Hylton.

Twitter @IndyLegion

From the District Commanders G reetings Fellow Legionnaires from the1st, First of all I would like to wish the entire Department of Indiana a prosperous and Happy New Year. I also want to thank all the 1st District Legionnaires who braved the weather and attended the MidWinter conference In Indianapolis. It took me close to five hours to get

there.

That being said, I would like to remind everyone to keep looking for candidates for all our programs.

I am asking everyone to say a prayer for one of our Vice CommandersJohn Beebe, he had to step down for personal reasons. Also, I would like to introduce his replacement Kevin Urbancyzk. He is the Commander of Post 100 in Lake Station. Kevin, thank you for your service and dedication.

We had our District bowling tournament Jan. 17-18. We had 16 teams and a whole lot of FUN. Several Posts donated gifts for door prizes and I donated two gas cards. Unfortunately, our scheduled Hines hospital visit is on the same weekend as the bowling tournament so, our numbers for visitors was a little less than normal. Thank you Hines committee and Auxiliary for your continued loving support of our wounded and sick veterans. The District Oratorical contest took place at Munster High School Jan. 25. We had 23 participants and more than 30 Legion Family volunteers. Thank you to all of you for supporting this GREAT program for our youth.

Post 232 in Hessville sponsored our District Four Chaplains Ceremony.

It was very nice and the participation was outstanding. Don Spiller, our district chaplain, from Post 80 in Whiting, has been attending workshops at several different churches with different denominations. He feels this will help him serve his fellow Legionnaires with a more found belief. He was also invited to attend the New Arch Bishop’s Ceremony in Chicago.

Membership: John Sarnecki is our District membership chairman.

He along with the entire District will continue with diligence and perseverance, to keep our District strong.

Congratulations to Commander Richard Ligon at the new Gary Post 270 for his 250% membership.

I would also like to give special recognition to two outstanding Legionnaires, Bernie Tiltges and Tim Conners. They have set up a 1st District Facebook Account. Please feel free to visit and like us. We will also have a District Webb page very soon. Keep checking, the 1st District FB because, we are E-ready.

I look forward to seeing you on FB and working hard with my District, and the Department.

God Bless all of you and GOD BLESS AMERICA

H

oliday greetings from the 2nd District, The District had the honor of receiving a visit from National Commander Mike Helm on November 4-5. Commander Helm visited North Webster, Valparaiso, and IVH. It was encouraging to hear that the Commander is going to keep pressing the VA for improvements. We certainly hope that he is successful in his endeavor.

We also visited the War Memorial in Munster. It is a very educational memorial with monuments to the wars of the 20th Century. There are plans for additions for the 21st Century. A timeline of events directly associated with the wars is part of the walk.

Incidentally, the veterans’ Memorial at Columbian Park in Lafayette is receiving a “face-lift” this winter courtesy of Subaru. The scheduled completion date is before Memorial Day next year. Their support is much appreciated.

Many members from the 2nd District participated in the pre-game flag ceremony at the Indianapolis Colts game on October 19. The pre-game preparation and festivities were fun and educational. If you have not had this opportunity, I highly recommend it. However, be careful if you are pulling the flag across the field. You can end up under the flag.

I visited Lake City Place, a nursing home in Warsaw, Friday before Veterans’ Day for their Veterans’ Day program. The day was a reminder for us not to forget our veterans during this holiday season. Many of our veterans are homebound, in nursing homes, or in assisted living quarters.

In many instances, a short visit from one of us would be the highlight of their day and possibly the highlight of their holiday season. So, please try to make time to visit some veterans.

The First Lady of the 2nd District and I would like to wish everyone a safe and joyful holiday season.

T

he American Legion Riders of Post 154 in Nappanee made a $4,000 donation to Miller’s Veteran Center in South Bend. This marks the second year the riders have made a donation to the Center.

Santa and Mrs. Clause came to Middlebury Dec. 6 with assistance from Post 210 and a Middlebury Fire Department fire truck. The line of children to see Santa and Mrs. Clause stretched almost a block long. Santa spent time with each child, giving each a bag of fruit and candy provided by the post. Later that day, Santa and Mrs. Clause visited the Post 210 Children’s Christmas Party hosted by the post 210 Auxiliary. More than 60 children, members of the Post 210 Legion Family attended. The Children ate lunch, completed craft projects, and played games until Santa arrived. Each child visiting also left with candy and a gift from Santa.

Sunday Dec. 14, Unit 210 member Sabrina List and her fellow staff members at the 500 Festival Office donated a large number of Lap Robes. They also provided goodie bags filled with toiletries for each resident at the Indiana Veterans Home. (CONT’D NEXT COLUMN)

Eagle Scout candidate Eric Ringer tackled renovation of the Veterans Memorial at Bremen Cemetery for his Eagle Scout project. Eric worked with Bremen Post 191 to install a retaining wall that displays flags from each branch of service, as well as local fire and police departments. A patio was created using engraved paving bricks. Eric sold engraved bricks to fund the project and honor the memory of those who served. An official dedication will be held Memorial Day 2015.

A

t the moment of preparation for this article, the Fabulous Fourth is busy with the testing of our Americanism and Government competitions and the collection of our Oratorical candidates.

The efforts we undertake now will reflect our place at the Department Convention in July as a strong, competitive District in the Department of Indiana. We are also, at this point in time, planning for the Holidays. It is my hope that these holidays are safe and rewarding for all of our Legion Families.

Even as this publication will be received after Christmas and New Year celebrations, this is the season for reflection. This Legion year has started out difficult for the ‘Fourth’ in terms of our membership renewals, however, looking forward we have, through hard work, found ourselves in a competitive position.

The key is ‘hard work’. There is no way our hard work could have been as fruitful as it is without the recognition of those who have had our backs. Department Commander Ken Hylton and Department Adjutant Hugh Dagley and the staff work diligently to make this Department what it is, and for that, this district commander is grateful. It’s easy to sit in the bleachers and judge the coach and the team but a completely different story when you’re on the field or on the court. I’m also grateful for the Staff members who were new to our organization in July. I cannot even imagine the immense effort on their parts to get up to speed as quickly as they have. THANK YOU STAFF! In closing, let us all keep in our hearts those less fortunate than ourselves and do what we can to make their lives a little easier.

H

appy New Year 5th District, I wish everyone a joyous and prosperous new year. With the start of the New Year we begin the second half of my term.

At the writing of this article we are at 82 percent of our membership goal.

We need 1,388 cards to meet goal; that is renewals and new members combined. Some of you have a goal that is below last years close of books and I know you are striving for at least close of books plus 1 for this year. It would not make sense to set your posts personal goal less than last years close of books.

We all want to grow our posts. I would like to congratulate two posts, as of January 15th, who have made 100 percent. Pendleton Post 608 with 133.33 percent and Urbana Post 175 with 100 percent. There are also seven posts that are within 10 or less of making 100 percent. Keep up the good work.

Boy’s State is just around the corner and we need to be recruiting delegates from our communities to attend. The cost again this year is only $300 per young man attending. Each and every post in the district should be sponsoring at least one delegate and more if funds are available. Ask your SAL squadrons to sponsor one also. If the schools in your area are not helping you out, check with your local Boy Scout troop. Boys State fits so well with a young man working on Eagle.

Around 300 veterans were assisted during the Stand downs held throughout our district over the past few months. These are veterans who are homeless or in need, that your generosity helped make life a little bit better.

While I am on the subject of helping our brothers and sisters, I am going to touch on a couple of programs we need to support. Temporary Financial Assistance is a nationally administered and funded program and Children’s Education & Welfare Fund is a Department administered and funded program. Both require there to be dependent children in the home. The TFA is a larger grant and takes longer to fund as the check comes from National. The CEWF is a smaller, one time grant of up to $500 and is funded at the post level, with reimbursement from department based on review 3 times a year at the conferences. More information is available on both of these at www.indianalegion.org. Donations can be made to both of these funds to insure both of them are available to help the children of our veterans.

Due to weather conditions our Indiana Veterans Home visit scheduled for January was postponed and will be rescheduled for August or September and will be during one of those two months from now on. Please stay tuned till we have a firm date and then plan on supporting the District and the residents from IVH.

H appy New Year from the 6th District!

The close of the year has come and gone. It’s time for reflection on the past year and a look forward to the future what we can do better to make our American Legion Family more successful for the next year.

In the 6th District, the cold of old man winter has come early and in the District I have had at least nine referrals for Temporary Financial Assistance and the Child welfare Trust Fund. These programs are financial programs to assist veterans during difficult times. Please contact your local post or District commander to gain information to apply for these programs.

HOOSIER LEGIONNAIRE 1st Quarter 2015

(CONTINUED ON PAGE 6)

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From the District Commanders (DISTRICT 6 CONT’D) In October, I had the pleasure of attending a fundraiser for Avon Post 145 to build a new building as their building has been bought by CSX Rail Road for rezoning and commerce travelling. The fundraiser was held at the site of Brownsburg Post 331. The keynote speaker is an extraordinary Marine and individual, Josh Bliell, who is an Iraq wounded Marine. His message to us was one of survival and never giving up hope.

He also thanked the American Legion for being there for him to be able to talk with other veteran’s and support for him and his young family.

In November, I was the keynote speaker for the Carmel Veteran’s Day Program. I was honored and humbled by this program. It was one of the most exhilarating Veteran’s Day programs I have ever attended. The children were extraordinary in their performance for the remembrance of veteran’s from across all wars and conflicts. I met a multitude of veteran’s ranging from WWI to present day, from all branches of the military including Merchant Marines. This program also coincided with the Marine Corps Birthday, so I was able to show the children our Marine camaraderie by wishing all Marines a Happy 239th Birthday. OORAH! NOW, a new year, the 6th District is going to be holding a contest for a District slogan. The Post with the member whose slogan is picked will receive an award as will the member. We feel a slogan will be associated with the District and may generate membership. The 6th District is, and has been, in the lead for the most new members accrued for the whole Department, standing at 271 new members. Go 6th District!

The Mid-Winter Conference was held January 9-11, 2015 and the 6th District was awarded as “fastest mover” for the previous membership card turn-in, going from 7th place to 2nd place. The two membership chairmen for the district were awarded gift cards. I also want to congratulate Cayuga Post 263 as our very first plank owner on the 6th District covered bridge for their 100% membership.

As we go forth this year let us not forget the POW/MIA’s and our continued effort in bringing them home. Remember God, Country, and The American Legion Family have been helping veterans for nearly 100 years.

Semper Fi

G reetings from the Fighting 7th,

Well another quarter has come and gone and the 7th District has been doing a great job.

All of or Post have worked hard over the holidays and I would like to mention a couple, Coal City gave out food baskets to those in need as did Bloomfield, Greenwood and Mooresville assisted several families with Temporary Financial Assistance and Spencer went above and beyond helping a family so that they could have Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner along with presents for the children.

Thanks to all of our members for a great job.

We have changed the way we have been doing our drive-arounds and it seems to be making a difference, instead of stopping at the Post, grabbing cards and leaving we have created teams consisting of one member from each family, when we stop at a post we allow at least one hour, that way each team member can visit and discuss any questions they may have and to help them start new programs. We had two post wanting to start Junior Shooting Sports.

We have also been able to use this time to work with Officers that are new or have not completely understood their position with paperwork and responsibilities.

This process has been helping build a better relationship between the Post and District.

O nce again, greetings from The Great 8th,

We are all proud to have attended another great mid-winter conference. Most committees met and there was a lot of good information distributed by each of them.

Congratulations to the 9th District for coming in first in membership.

However, don’t get used to it – lol.

Each and every one of us are aware that membership is every legionnaires responsibility. There are not too many conversations that occur, which membership is not part of the topic. The American Legion Extension Institute course stresses membership. Without it as our corner stone the rest of the Legion house would come tumbling down. Every American Legion program depends upon it.

Here in the 8th we are still knocking on doors and making those important phone calls. Also, we are looking forward to, and preparing for, the revitalization coming up in February. As most of you know, if it looks like a veteran, walks like a veteran, it is probably a veteran. But, you will never know if you don’t ask.

At a recent flea market at the Kentucky Fair and Exposition Center I took the opportunity to stop everyone I seen displaying some sort of military memorabilia. Out of the numerous individuals I spoke with, all but 2 belonged to an American Legion or the VFW. Why am I telling you this, because as a Legionnaire it’s my job, its membership.

Just last week we had two requests for Temporary Financial Assistance. We had a case in the Milltown area and another in Evansville.

After our initial interviews, both cases were resolved not by TFA but through the American Legion Children’s Education and Welfare Fund. It pays to know our programs.

I am proud to announce, we had our third meeting with the Branchville Correctional Facility and a new Legion post in that facility is all but complete. Another is right around the corner at the Alcoa Plant in Evansville. Just Ask! On a sad note, our Finance Officer Mel Vinson’s mother was called to rest this past week. She was a member of both the American Legion Auxiliary and the VFW Auxiliary. A loss of any family member is crucial, but little boys are partial to Mom… God Bless you Mel and your family.

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GLately reetings from the 9th, we have all been

concerned with membership. Retention in the American Legion seems to be getting harder. We have seasoned Legionnaires that use every excuse as to why not to pay the dues. So what do we do to combat this, the first thing that pops into everyone’s mind is that we have to go out and knock on peoples doors, mostly because in the past this has proven to be a very effective method.

Today it is still effective, but not totally, times are changing and a lot of people do not like change, but we do everything in our powers to try and accommodate them.

In the 9th we are looking to open a church post, this post will be in North Vernon, there are approximately 2000 Veterans in Jennings County and about 200 in this Church, it is the First United Methodist, by doing this, we hope to provide a post that will have an atmosphere that Legionnaires will like. This may not be the total answer. Also to help grow our membership, the 9th is looking at putting a post at the Camp Atterbury Correctional Facility, this post will only have the minimum for membership, but at least we are helping veterans out.

We are also looking to put a post in the Women’s Correctional Facility in Madison, again this will help out membership. Every little bit helps. I want to thank each and every one of the posts in the 9th District for the outstanding participation they are showing with the membership program. I also want to send out a hardy Thank you to our fellow Districts, I believe we all work together even though it seems like we are constantly competing against one another.

All of our goals are to reach 100 percent, when one of us has a good card turn in, it pushes the rest of us to do better, thus, growing our membership in the Legion. By doing this, one District will, always be in first place, but the real success is that our Department as a whole grows and becomes successful; this is the real reward, being the best Department in the American Legion. We are on our way and collectively can do it.

I look forward to being a 100 percent District and a 100 percent Department, don’t you?

Keep up the good work and we all will be winners.

H ello from the 10th District,

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving and Christmas. Many of our posts had wonderful children’s Christmas parties, as well as adult parties.

We had a good turnout at the Mid-Winter Conference. Were still slightly behind my personal membership goal with a few posts that are having individual issues, but I want to encourage all the posts to keep working hard and bringing members into our organization. We hope to have more memberships to turn in at our next district meeting Feb. 1.

As most of district commanders know that revitalization is coming and I hope this can get a lot more memberships to turn in at the next conference. Many of our posts, at this time of year are in bad shape financially, and so are our veterans. I have had some calls from veterans asking how to apply for temporary financial assistance. Please help our fellow veterans by assisting them in that process. A TFA teaching session was held at Department Headquarters and we will probably have some calls in the future on more like this.

We at the 10th District hope to see you at the Spring Conference and hope you have a great start of the New Year.

F

ellow legionnaire’s, I send greetings to all of you!

I hope all of you had a joyous Christmas and hope your New Year meets to your expectations.

I want to bring to your attention a few of the Districts activities for the betterment of your post.

The post commanders conference intended for post commanders and adjutants, the conference consisted of post operations, update information, and offered district assistance. It included proper meeting protocol, concluding with a round robin discussion session.

The chaplain’s conference was conducted by District Chaplain and PDC Edward L. Harris Jr. and was designed to give guidance in proper American Legion procedures and protocol of a post chaplain.

The District Officers have been putting on training conferences for your post officers to benefit them in their roles in your post, unfortunately only a few have shown up for each of those sessions.

Attention post service officers, you will be notified of a Temporary Financial Assistance, and Child Education Welfare Funding training conference. Training date and place to be announced Please plan on attending.

Attention to all veterans, the Marion county burial team needs volunteers to join their ranks for the Burial Honor Guard. Please contact: Richard Viles at Post 64 at (317) 244-8007.

The 11th District is in need of a Volunteer Service Officer at the Roudebush VA Hospital Veteran’s Service office. This position helps veterans with their needs at the VA. Please contact: John Hickey at the Department Service Office at (317) 916-3605 or myself (317) 690-8551.

Upcoming events: The Four Chaplin’s ceremony will be held on 1 Feb 2015 at 2:00 Pm Located at Post 64.

The following dates are for the District Meetings: 5 Feb 2015 - Carrico/Garfield Post 88 located at 1446 S. Olive St. (CONTINUED ON PAGE 10)

HOOSIER LEGIONNAIRE 1st Quarter 2015

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We will Help you Get the Benefits you Earned While Serving Call our Department Service Officers Today And get Free assistance with, *Service Connected Disabilities *State and Federal VA Benefits *Compensation & Pension *Tax Deductions *Healthcare

THE AMERICAN LEGION DEPARTMENT OF INDIANA Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation

1-888-723-7999 indianalegion.org

or

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Contact your local American Legion At: Name______________________________________________ ADDRESS___________________________________________ CITY_______________________________________________ Phone___________________________POST #___________

TAKE ONE For yourself Or a VETeran you Know!

Don’t Fight for your

Benefits alone!

CALL 1-888-723-7999 or: _____________________

Don’t Fight for your

Benefits alone!

CALL 1-888-723-7999 or: _____________________

Don’t Fight for your

Benefits alone!

CALL 1-888-723-7999 or: _____________________

Don’t Fight for your

Benefits alone!

CALL 1-888-723-7999 or: _____________________

Don’t Fight for your

Benefits alone!

CALL 1-888-723-7999 or: _____________________

Don’t Fight for your

Benefits alone!

CALL 1-888-723-7999 or: _____________________

Don’t Fight for your

Benefits alone!

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Don’t Fight for your

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Please Fill out and Place this page on bulletin boards and windows of Reserve Centers, Armories, Workplaces and businesses throughout Indiana To assist our Veterans with getting benefits

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The spirit of the season...

Avon Post 145 brings cheer to National Guard families Story by National American Legion Headquarters Danville, Ind.- Nearly 200 Christmas presents wrapped in pink, green and blue camouflage paper filled a stage flanked by lit Christmas trees and wreaths at the Hendricks Country Fairgrounds in Danville, Ind., last Saturday.

The presents were purchased and given to 16 Indiana National Guard families by The American Legion family of Post 145 in Avon and its Indiana Blue Star Committee for its first “Spirit of Christmas” event.

The 45 children of the military families - who were identified as in need this holiday season by the Indiana National Guard family assistance program - didn’t unwrap their gifts until Santa Claus arrived at the fairgrounds, which he did by way of a Vietnam War Huey helicopter. The children stood outside waving to Santa as he landed.

“This is all about the kids,” said Ralph “Zoc” Zoccolillo, Indiana Blue Star Salute Committee chairman and member of Post 145.

“These kids wished for certain presents, and they got them.”

The “Spirit of Christmas” event came to fruition in less than two months, and more than $8,000 was raised to purchase presents and to provide a catered lunch to the families. A local Yamaha store sponsored the Huey, and Marsh grocery store in Avon provided hams for

Derek, son of Lindsey Dominos of the Indianapolis National Guard, is in awe of a gift he received. Photo by Lucas Carter, The American Legion

each family to take home.

“This is what the Legion is supposed to do. A lot of generous people made this event happen,” said Richard Culp, commander of Post 145.

The post held a pizza party to wrap all the presents, which consisted of children’s toys and electronics such as televisions, laptops, Xbox’s and Playstation 3’s. Each family was called individually on stage to take a photo with Santa and to receive gifts, which were delivered to the family’s respective table by Pike High School JROTC cadets.

“It means the most that my kids

are loved by people we don’t even know,” said Indiana National Guardsmen Larry White.

For retired Army Sgt. Josh Turner, a father of six, he said the “Spirit of Christmas” event “means a lot to my family, especially since right now we are in a bad spot— our 6-year-old son was just diagnosed with Leukemia.”

The event was such a success, bringing joy to many families this holiday season, that Post 145 and the Indiana Blue Star program “will continue to host the ‘Spirit of Christmas’ for our military families,” Zoc said.

See more at: http://www.legion.org/

Above- Kendrick Law, 6, marvels at his gifts.

Below- Each family, one by one, went up to spend a few moments with Santa.

Photos by Lucas Carter, The American Legion

Legionnaires donate to needy Hoosier Vets Photos by William E. Henry, communications director

the Hoosier Veterans Assistance Foundation. These items assisted homeless and near-homeless veterIndianapolis- The Department of ans through that charity. Personnel Indiana Headquarters collected and from HVAF came to pick up the donated many items this holiday items from Headquarters Dec. 9, season for Hoosier veterans and 2014. their families in need.

Indiana National Guard SolLegion Family members collect- diers assisted a family assistance ed items during their annual Christ- coordinator with the pick-up and mas parties to donate to Hoosier delivery of donated items for the veteran charity organizations.

Indiana Family Programs Annual The Indiana Legion Auxiliary Toy Drive at the Headquarters donated many personal care and in Indianapolis Tuesday, Dec. 9, clothing items for veterans to 2014. Staff Sgt. Amber Hampton, assigned to the HHC 76th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, and Sgt. 1st Class Jennifer Lucas, assigned to Company C, 776th Brigade Engineer Battalion, assisted Indiana National Guard’s Family Assistance Specialist Mike Espinda, with the pick-up of many new unwrapped toys, coats and cold weather items for Indiana Guardsman families.

The Marine Corps Reserve component at the Fort Benjamin Harrison area came to collect many new, unwrapped toys for the Toys for Tots program Dec. 15, 2014.

Indianapolis Marine Corps Reservist, Staff Sgt. Ryan Albright, visited the Department of Indiana Headquarters to pick up three large boxes of toys and said any toys Marine Corps Reservist Staff Sgt. Ryan that are collected after the deadline Albright, picks up Toys for Tots donations at the Department Headquarters, Monday, would be used for next year’s toy drive.

Dec. 15, 2014.

Hoosier Veterans Assistance Foundation members pick up items donated by the Indiana Legion Auxiliary at the Depatment of Indiana Headquarters, Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2014.

Hoosier families who may have had a hard time gathering the items for their family this holiday season benefited from these donations. The items were collected by staff members during their annual holiday event and donated by our Indiana Legion Family, officers and staff throughout the state.

Thanks to all our Legion Family members who helped make Christmas a lot brighter for Indiana veterans and families in need!

Staff Sgt. Amber Hampton, assigned to the HHC 76th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, carries a tote of donated items for the Indiana National Guard Family Programs Annual Toy Drive, Tuesday Dec. 9, 2014.

Our Department service officers have performed well above all of the other service organizations for months on end. The graph to the right depicts an ongoing trend of superior performance for our service officers’ successful claims decisions for the third week of January.

For more information about our service officer team, or monthly updates please visit: www.indianalegion.org.

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HOOSIER LEGIONNAIRE 1st Quarter 2015

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Indiana SERVICE DEPARTMENT V eterans Affairs Voluntary Service (VAVS)

Representatives Hold a Very Important Position: Whenever most of us think of American Legion veterans’ service providers, we think our department service officers providing claims representation and of our post and district service officers disseminate veterans’ benefits information. Veterans’ service providers also include, however, our dedicated American Legion volunteers at VA hospitals and other veterans care facilities, such as, nursing homes, VA outpatient clinics, vet centers, and at veterans’ gravesites.

Each year these dedicated American Legion members donate hundreds of hours of their own time in making sure veterans and their families receive the care and respect they deserve. American Legion members, post, and districts also donate thousands of dollars to help our volunteer programs. Not one dollar of those funds is used for administrative purposes, and our volunteers certainly don’t ask for or receive pay for services. Instead, our volunteers use those funds to purchase comfort items to give veterans while conducting visits at health care facilities.

At VA Medical Centers, volunteers are part of the Veterans Affairs Voluntary Services Program. Each service organization may have one VAVS Representative, one Deputy Representative, an Associated Representative, and a Deputy Associated representative.

The VAVS representative is an experienced and knowledgeable Legionnaire. He or she is also the official liaison between the VA Medical Center and The American Legion in all aspects of the VAVS Program.

Duties of the organization’s VAVS Representative include, 1) Assisting with improving the VAVS Program, 2) Providing input to VA staff and the facility’s VAVS Committee, 3) Promoting the recruitment of volunteers and the donation of financial and material resources in accordance with facility needs, 4) Advising members of the policy and procedures of the organization and the facility, 5) Assisting VA staff when an affiliated volunteer must be removed for

cause, 6) Attending and participate in meetings of the VAVS Committee, 7) Serving as a member of a subcommittee or task force as requested, 8) Maintaining records and making reports as required by the organization and VA, 9) Coordinating activities of the organization with the facility, and 10) Delegating responsibility and voting privileges to deputy representatives, as required.

The Deputy VAVS Representative performs duties as assigned by the representative. They also attend and participate in VAVS Committee meetings and they may serve on subcommittees and task groups.

The Associated Representative is appointed from a state adjacent to the facility when the organization has members in the adjacent state participating in the facility’s volunteer program. Duties, except for voting privileges, are the same as the VAVS Representative, but limited to the adjacent state.

The Deputy Associated Representative must also hold Legion membership in the adjacent state. Their duties are assigned by the Associated Representative. The Deputy Associated Representative may also participate fully in discussions at the facility’s VAVS Committee Meetings and be appointed to subcommittees and task groups.

Okay, so why did I drag you through all this (fun reading – huh). First, we want to let you know how our volunteers are serving veterans and The American Legion. Second, however, we ask that you might consider either assisting the appointed VAVS representative at your local VA Medical Center or applying to be a VAVS program volunteer yourself.

You may assist with VAVS volunteer activities by contacting the VA Chief of Volunteer Services at your local VA Medical Center and asking him or her to connect you with the Legion’s VAVS Representative. The Legion’s VAVS Representative will then find ways for you to participate in the Legion’s volunteer activities at the VA Medical Center.

If you have interest in becoming a VAVS Representative, or Deputy, Associate, or Associate Deputy VAVS Representative for The American Legion, please ask your American Legion Post or District Commander to recommend you to the Department Commander. By the way, we are currently looking for a qualified American Legion member to become our VAVS Volunteer representative at the Indianapolis VA Medical Center.

Volunteers make The American Legion what it is today. Please thank our VAVS volunteers when you see them. If you have time, please also consider joining this honorable and selfless group of volunteers yourself.

National Commander Mike Helm tours Indiana Left - National American Legion Cmdr. Mike Helm takes a moment to meet with a resident at Indiana Veterans Home during his statewide tour of Indiana Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2014. Helm was led on a tour throughout the IVH grounds to see new updates and visit with Hoosier Veterans who live in the facilities.

Left - The American Legion National Cmdr.

Mike Helm shoots a basket at the Hoosier Gym in Knightstown, Ind., during his statewide tour of Indiana Monday Nov. 3, 2014.

Helm had the chance to visit many memorial and Legion Posts throughout the state during his tour.

Right - The American Legion National Cmdr. Mike Helm pushes a cart to load donations for the Indiana Veterans Home during his statewide tour of Indiana Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2014.

Helm helped Hoosier Legionnaires unload many donated personal items for the residents of IVH.

Right - Indiana National Guard Sgt. 1st Class Erin Girdler, smiles while speaking to The American Legion National Cmdr.

Mike Helm and other Hoosier Legionnaires at Camp Atterbury, Ind., during a tour of the Medical Training Simulation Center Saturday, Nov. 1, 2014.

Left - The American Legion National Cmdr. Mike Helm, left, shakes hands with Richard Culp, Avon Post 145 commander during a statewide tour of Indiana, Sunday, Nov. 2, 2014.

Right - The American Legion National Cmdr.

Mike Helm assists Bruce Steffen, membership chairman with collecting membership applications during his statewide tour of Indiana, Sunday, Nov. 2, 2014.

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News 2015 Indiana General Assembly Veteran Specific Legislation Senate Bills 126 Assessed value caps for Veteran deductions- Sen. Eric Bassler, Sen. Travis Holdman 140 Tax credit for hiring Veterans- Sen. Lonnie Randolph 253 Lifetime hunting and fishing licenses- Sen. Michael Delph 262 Taxation of military retirement income- Sen. Pete Miller, Sen. James Arnold 298 Veteran employment preference- Sen. Amanda Banks, Sen. Michael Crider, Sen. James Arnold 307 Consumer protection- Sen. Rodric Bray 349 State park admission- Sen. Lonnie Randolph 357 Sales tax exemption for disabled veterans- Sen. Ronald Grooms 371 Free hunting and fishing licenses- Sen. Vaneta Becker, Sen. Brent Waltz, Sen. James Tomes 402 Hiring age of veteran for public service officer- Sen. Timothy Lanane 424 Women Veteran issues- Sen. Vaneta Becker, Sen. Susan Glick, Sen. Jean Leising 472 Various AC I RC Veteran matters- Sen. James Merritt 533 Various Disabled Veteran matters- Sen. Ronald Grooms 547 Veteran Treatment Courts- Sen. Joseph Zakas, Sen. Michael Crider 552 Tuition exemption for children of Vets- Sen. Frank Mrvan

House Bills 1049 Women Veterans programs- Rep. Doug Gutwein 1089 Tax credit for hiring a veteran- Rep. Christina Hale 1131 Exempt RC from Jury duty- Rep. Richard Hamm 1159 Veteran employment preference- Rep. Chris Judy 1174 Property tax deductions- Rep. Charles Moseley 1209 Retired military and federal service pay exemptionRep. Lloyd Arnold 1250 Abandoned homestead property tax exemption- Rep. Justin Moed 1251 Tax credit for hiring a veteran- Rep. Justin Moed 1333 College tuition assistance- Rep. Randy Truitt 1337 Property tax deductions- Rep. Charles Moseley 1344 Veteran matters- Rep. Karlee Macer 1442 Veteran Education Centers of Excellence- Rep. Sheila Klinker 1443 Veteran property tax deductions- Rep. Sheila Klinker 1447 State employment and training priority- Rep. Sheila Klinker 1489 Veteran matters (Veteran recovery program, etaI)Rep. Peggy Mayfield 1492 Residential tuition rates for veteran’s children- Rep. Timothy Harman Website for complete details:

http://iga.in.gov/legislative/2015/bills/

Coalition continues airstrikes in Syria, Iraq

From a Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve News Release

-- Near Mosul, three airstrikes destroyed an ISIL tactical unit, two ISIL bunkers, an ISIL heavy machine gun, two ISIL mortar SOUTHWEST ASIA, Jan. positions, an ISIL armored 13, 2015 – U.S. and coalivehicle and an ISIL excavation military forces have tor. continued to attack Islamic -- Near Baghdad, two State of Iraq and the Levant airstrikes destroyed an ISIL terrorists in Syria and Iraq, tactical unit and struck Combined Joint Task Force another, and destroyed an Operation Inherent Resolve ISIL fighting position and officials reported today. two ISIL heavy machine Officials reported details guns. of the latest strikes, which took place between 8 a.m.

Part of Operation Inheryesterday and 8 a.m. toent Resolve day, local time, noting that The strikes were conassessments of results are ducted as part of Operabased on initial reports. tion Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the Airstrikes in Syria ISIL terrorist group and Bomber and fighter airthe threat they pose to Iraq, craft conducted four airSyria, the region, and the strikes in Syria: wider international com-- Near Kobani, three airmunity. The destruction strikes destroyed five ISIL of ISIL targets in Syria fighting positions. and Iraq further limits the -- Near Dawr az Zawr, an terrorist group’s ability to airstrike destroyed an ISIL project terror and conduct tank. operations, officials said.

Coalition nations conAirstrikes in Iraq ducting airstrikes in Iraq Attack, fighter, bomber include the United States, and remotely piloted airAustralia, Belgium, Canacraft conducted seven da, Denmark, France, the airstrikes in Iraq: Netherlands and the United -- Near Tal Afar, an airKingdom. Coalition nations strike destroyed an ISIL conducting airstrikes in Syrtactical unit and an ISIL ia include the United States, building.

Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi -- Near Sinjar, an airstrike Arabia and the United Arab destroyed an ISIL tactical Emirates. unit.

DISTRICT 11 CONTINUED 5 Mar 2015 – Kenneth N. Dowden-Wayne Post 64 Located at 601 S. Holt Rd. 2 Apr 2015 – Beech Grove Post 276 Located at 327 Main St. in Beech Grove 7 May 2015 – Atkins Saw Post 355 Located at 7610 S. Meridian St. 4 Jun 2015 – Broad Ripple Post 3 Located at 6379 N. College Ave. NOTE: This is the Post Everlasting Ceremony for all the veterans we have lost for this year.

All those who have lost a legion veteran this year are welcome to this ceremony.

Tim Elson (District Membership Chairman), and myself are asking for your help. We ask all members (Legion, Aux, SAL, ALR) to help get veterans and their families to join the American Legion. Membership is such a critical part of protecting your Veteran Benefits, and the American Legion.

I am asking each of you to sign up just one new member or more. We need your assistance in this matter. I know your saying to yourself, ‘That is the responsibility of the post or district membership chairman.’ But please remember, those people are only one person; with your help, it could be many.

Please consider helping your post or district.

On a final note, please go visit your local post and show your support.

I hope all of you stay safe and warm. I look forward to seeing you as I visit your post.

Bless our Solders, our Veterans and their families.

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U.S. Air Force E-3B Sentry airborne warning and control system (AWACS) crew members conduct a mission in support of airstrikes against ISIL targets over northeastern Iraq, Oct. 2, 2014. The AWACS have been a part of the recent missions taking place in Iraq and Syria, controlling coalition aircraft to assist in eliminating ISIL targets. Photo by Senior Airman Matthew Bruch, U.S. Air Force’s Central Command

Suicide prevention bill passes in honor of Hoosier Guardsman Story by National American Legion Headquarters In 2013, 132 U.S. service members died in combat operations. During the same span of time, more than three and a half times that number died by their own hands.

Sen. Joe Donnelly, DInd., is hoping legislation that was signed into law Dec. 19 can cut that number down considerably – and eventually reduce it to zero.

The Jacob Sexton Military Suicide Prevention Act – part of the National Defense Authorization Act signed into law by President Obama last week – includes language that will require all members of the U.S. military – active, National Guard and reserve – to receive annual mental health assessments beginning in 2015.

During a press conference in Indianapolis on the day the legislation was signed, Donnelly said measures had to be taken to deeply cut into the number of military suicides occurring annually – until that number eventually reaches zero.

“We have to end this scourge,” Donnelly said.

“We seek to prevent another service member’s family from experiencing the tragedy of suicide.”

Donnelly was flanked

Senator Joe Donnelly, talks about the Jacob Sexton Military Suicide Prevention Act, which requires all members of the military to receive annual mental health assessments beginning in 2015. Jeff and Barbara Sexton, Jacob Sexton’s parents, were present at the Dec. 19 press conference after the measure was signed into law. Photo by Lucas Carter, The American Legion

by Jeff and Barb Sexton, the parents of the National Guardsmen for whom the legislation is named. Jacob was an Indiana National Guardsman who took his own life during a 15-day leave from Afghanistan.

“The day they passed the bill would have been Jacob’s 27th birthday,” Jeff said. “I can’t think of a better birthday present for him.

Hopefully this will bring a change to the stigma and bring out the help our men and women need.”

The legislation also requires an evaluation of existing mental health practices and provides measures to keep the privacy of service members who seek mental health care. The language

HOOSIER LEGIONNAIRE 1st Quarter 2015

of the Sexton legislation is supported by the Legion’s Resolution 292, passed during the 2014 National Convention in August 2014.

Donnelly said the legislation simply is honoring a pact made with those who take the oath of service.

“It is important to our nation,” he said. “It is important to every single family that their brother or sister, their husband or wife, loved one – both those who have deployed and those who are not deployed – that they be able to live out their life with their family in peace and in happiness. That they not feel the stigma about searching for help and having someone to talk to. We owe them.”

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News

Vincennes University is affordably training, placing veterans in jobs with accelerated teaching programs Story by William E. Henry, President for Workforce communications director Development and Community Services said the uniVincennes University is versity has worked to make currently reaching out to these courses as affordable Hoosier veterans to enroll as possible for veterans. in affordable accelerated “We don’t want any vet to learning programs for CNC have any debt by the time machining, industrial main- they finish these programs,” tenance and CDL driving said Tucker. courses.

Tucker said VU works The CNC machining with a variety of funding course is an approximate sources to ensure veterans 640 hour course and is can train with little or no completed in 16 weeks. It out-of-pocket costs to them. prepares veterans for the “Many veterans are cashentry level CNC field and strapped and cannot afford works with partners to help tuition and other expenses with job placement. associated with 16 weeks The industrial mainteof training. For that reason, nance course is an approxi- the university assists each mate 600 hour course and is of our veteran trainees in also finished in 16 weeks. putting together a fundThis course prepares veter- ing package of grants and ans to maintain and repair scholarships that result in machinery in the industrial no debt to the veteran,” field. said Tucker. “VU is now in The CDL course is six our second year of offering weeks long, but past mili16-week accelerated traintary driving experience can ing for veterans, so we have be applied to finish sooner. become experts in assisting For veterans with military veterans to apply for and driving experience, that obtain grants and scholarcould mean less time in the ships to pay for the traincourse and sooner on the ing.” road in a new career field.

Vincennes University These courses can be President, Dr. Dick Helton, financed through the G.I. said these programs have Bill, WorkOne, the Gene been specifically designed Haas Foundation and other to get veterans trained and university, state and federal into a new career quickly. financial aid programs.

“For these accelerated David Tucker, the Vincourses, VU is targeting cennes University Vice veterans who may not have

the time or the inclination to obtain a two-year associates degree,” said Helton.

“VU enrolls many veterans in our associate degree programs every year, but we also know that many veterans would like to upgrade their skills in a shorter timeframe.

This is where the accelerated programs fit many veterans.

With 16 weeks of intensive training, we can upgrade a veteran’s skills and get that veteran placed on a job in machining or industrial maintenance.”

Both Helton and Tucker agreed these fields are highly technical, but in high demand. Both say VU has a proven track record with a flawless rate of success with job placement so far.

“Employers trust that VU provides outstanding technical training to veterans,” said Tucker. “To date, VU has been able to achieve 100 percent job placement for veterans upon comple-

tion of the training.”

“The employers know that veterans already have the soft skills employers are looking for; the willingness to work hard, be part of a team, and accept and fulfill a mission,” said Helton.

“Most of our veteran trainees live in veteran-only housing on campus Monday through Thursday, returning to their hometowns on weekends.”

For more information on the programs listed here

“Once veterans complete the accelerated training in machining or industrial maintenance, employers gladly hire them.”

There is also housing available for veterans attending courses at the school during the weekdays and want to go home on the weekends.

“It is not necessary to live within daily commuting distance to Vincennes to take the training,” said Tucker.

or other opportunities the university offers, please contact the Vincennes University Veteran Support Services Offices at 812888-5421 or visit: http:// www.vinu.edu/veteranssupport-services

Historian (Continued) Laura McKee named as IDVA’s Information seen in these lists will be the full name and address of both delegates and alternates and their posts numbers.

Delegates selected from Posts to attend the annual Department Convention for the following years: 1944—1945; 1947—1954; 1959—1989; 1991— 1996; 1998—2003; 2008; 2010; 2012—2014.

Names, addresses and post numbers are listed.

They usually include office held and, occasionally, those on the executive board. *Membership reports Membership figures of posts and Districts from the following years: 1942—1994; 1997—2014.

The type of information in this category is often inconsistent. One membership year may have figures compiled every other week while another year may have only a few District figures.

These files are organized by date; each file often contains the membership figures and goals of each post. *Department convention proceedings Department Convention proceedings from the following years: 1920—2014 (1919 and 2004 are the only missing years).

These proceedings are often a word-for-word of the speeches and actions of what went on for each convention. Some of the proceedings can be searchable for any particular key-word. Finding a particular post number or the name of a person will be easy. *Department convention programs These programs for 1933, 1934, 1937 and 1938 conventions were published before the start of the convention and consist of committee and District reports, photographs of officers, and advertisements.

The scanning of other subjects such as American Legion Hoosier Baseball rosters and Hoosier Boys State listings will continue. Contact me for other possible material. There is a great amount of information that can be gathered together to help you in compiling your post’s history.

Women’s Veteran Coordinator

INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs has named United States Air Force veteran Laura J. McKee as its state women’s veteran coordinator.

Senior Master Sergeant McKee is an Air Force Reservist with the 434th Air Refueling Wing at Grissom Air Reserve Base, Indiana.

She is an Assistant Chief Inflight Refueler with the 72nd Air Refueling Squadron at Grissom. She has been deployed numerous times in support of operations during Operation Iraqi and Enduring Freedom and has honorably served her country for 25 years. McKee has over 4,000 flight hours and almost 1,000 combat hours.

McKee, a lifelong resident of Indiana, earned her bachelor’s degree from Indiana University and also graduated from the Community College of the Air Force with two Associate of Applied Science degrees in Aviation Operation Aircraft Technology and Systems Maintenance Technology.

“We are very pleased to announce the selection of Laura McKee for this vital role,” said Governor Mike Pence. “McKee’s service history is filled with honor,

sues.

“Being selected as the IDVA state women’s veteran coordinator is an extraordinary honor,” said McKee. “My career has provided me with the insight to understand concerns and questions shared by other female veterans. I have experienced, witnessed and have an awareness of the challenges that are often specific to female veterans. I am looking forward to continuing my service career by helping others in this role.” dedication and commitment McKee’s responsibilibeginning with Operation ties will include performDesert Shield and Storm to ing outreach to improve the most recent Operation women veterans’ awareness Inherent Freedom. She has of eligibility for federal an extensive and decorated and state veterans’ services record of service to our and benefits, serving as an country. Her experience in accredited state service ofthe military and her exficer, reviewing programs tensive knowledge of the and advocating for addiissues and challenges facing tional initiatives to address female veterans make her or meet the needs of Indithe ideal person to help ana’s women veterans. them find the benefits and Over 33,000 women services due to them for veterans reside in Indiana. their selfless service and They served in every war sacrifice.” period, including World The Indiana General War II, and 1,087 of them Assembly in 2014 passed are military retirees. There unanimously legislation are 2,335 women on acauthorizing this position tive duty not including during a session where those serving in the Indiana Governor Mike Pence National Guard or who are championed veterans’ ismembers of a Reserve unit.

Women’s American Legion Post 438 members pose for a picture during Military and Veteran Legislation Day at the Indiana State House Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2015.

HOOSIER LEGIONNAIRE 1st Quarter 2015

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PROGRAMS & UPDATES Wide lens of Legion Programs turns focus on youth, Americanism within our communities

By Kimberly Mezger, Programs coordinator

continue to pour in, supporting this vital youth program. Our winning boy and American Legion progirl participants will read grams are the link between their winning essay and be the veteran and his or her awarded their scholarship community, and widely during the General Session believed to be the key to re- of the Spring Conference as energizing membership and well. enhancing our organizaFollowing a successful tion. While participation in and rewarding season of the Department of Indiana classroom-based AmericanAmericanism and Chilism education, the Departdren & Youth programs is ment is now entering the admirable and hearty, there time of year when Ameriis ample room for growth. can Legion program focus Expanded communications turns to youth and Ameriand education about each canism activities based in program is necessary, how- our communities. ever, in order to attract the attention of Legionnaires Oratorical – those who want to bridge High school students their service experience across the state prepared with community service – and delivered well-rethat haven’t known how to searched and articulated get involved before now.

8-10-minute orations regarding the U.S. ConstituAmericanism & tion to their local American Government Legion posts and districts Each fall, over 7,000 in January. Those districts students from nearly 85 have determined their winIndiana middle, high, and ning representatives; Februhome schools participate ary is the month for those in The American Legion’s orators to compete in one administration of the Amer- of Indiana’s four zone-level icanism & Government contests. Hoosier Legion test. These assessments Family members are eahave been administered and gerly invited to attend The graded and were evaluated American Legion Departby the ment of Indiana Oratorical A & G Committee at the Finals on Sunday, March 8, Department Mid-Winter at 1 p.m. This year’s conConference in January. test will be held at National Selected winners will be Legion Headquarters in presented with their schol- downtown Indianapolis. In arship awards at the Depart- conjunction with the recepment Spring Conference in tion following the event, April.

Past National Commander Butch Miller will coordiFlag Education nate a tour of the historic Similarly, the Department headquarters building for of Indiana distributed well all interested. over 19,000 “Our Country’s Flag” comic books Bowling to students in classrooms The 74th Annual Amerithroughout the state becan Legion Department of tween October and DeIndiana Bowling Tournacember of 2014. Enthusiment will be held over three astic 4th-grade participants weekends in March (March learned about patriotism 7/8, 14/15, and 21/22) at and flag etiquette from Classic Lanes in Bloomsome of the most selfless ington. So far there are 96 Legionnaires in our Deteams registered, but Chuck partment. Letters of thanks Myers, the Bowling Comfrom classroom teachers mittee Secretary, continues

their candidate scrapbooks in accordance with Department and National rules, then District Committees determine who will elevate to State-level competition.

Awards vary, but all winners are recognized at the Department Convention in July.

Hoosier Boys State Delegate recruitment for this summer’s Hoosier Boys State is in full swing.

Chairmen from each of the 11 districts have been preparing for the June 1420 program by distributing promotional materials and applications to high school counselors, holding preliminary community meetings, and soliciting delegate sponsorships from local businesses and organizations. This annual weeklong event is specifically for young men about to enter their senior year of high school. The camp, conductFourth-grader, Reagan Fortwendel, from Ireland Elementary school ed on the campus of Trine in Jasper, Ind. reads her winning Flag Education essay to the class.

Photo by Daniel Lawson, Indiana Legion Post #147 University in Angola, immerses future leaders in the to accept applications in begun compiling their iniworld of politics, governhopes of exceeding last tial rosters, going through ment, and intensive Ameriyear’s team count of 107. background checks, acquir- canism training. Later in ing insurance, and register- life, participants often refer Junior Shooting Sports ing their teams, all in prepa- to HBS as a pivotal experiShooters from one of ration for the 2015 Legion ence – “A Week to Shape Indiana’s 33 JSSP teams Baseball season. Last year, a Lifetime,” as the motto will compete in this year’s the Department of Indiana goes.

Invitational Pellet Rifle hosted 33 Senior and 11 JuMatch beginning at 10 a.m. nior teams; this year, we al- Golf on Saturday, March 21, at ready have a few new teams The 2015 Indiana AmeriAmerican Legion Post 89 signed up. Legion Baseball can Legion State Golf in Seymour. In addition, competition will begin this Tournament will be held the Department JSSP and spring and culminate with Saturday and Sunday, June National Rifle Association the State Tournament held 20 and 21, at the Winding have collaborated to ofJuly 24-28 in Terre Haute. River/South Grove Golf fer a 16-hour Level 1 Rifle Course in Indianapolis. This Coach School during the Scholarships and Awards year’s event is hosted by weekend of April 18 and Now is also the time American Legion Post 64.

19. The all-day classes will for the American Legion Details, promotional mabe taught by a NRA instruc- Family Scholarship and the terials, registration forms, tor and held at the Marriott Department of Indiana’s deadlines, and points-ofIndianapolis East hotel. The “Of the Year” applications. contact regarding each of material and test fee is $100 These awards include Boy these programs are availper coach and a block of Scout and Girl Scout of the able on the Department Legion-rate hotel rooms are Year, the three levels of website under the “Proavailable.

Educator of the Year and grams” tab.

Military Person of the Year, Baseball and Law Enforcement/OfManagers and coaches ficer, Firefighter, and EMS from around the state have of the Year. Posts compile

Upcoming Program Events DATE February 15 February 15 February 21 February 22 March 7-8 March 8 March 14-15 March 21 March 21-22 March 31 April 1 April 10-12 April 10-12 April 18-19 June 7 June 14-20 June 20-21 July 8-12 July 24-28 Aug. 28-Sept. 3

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TIME 1 p.m.

1 p.m.

1 p.m.

12 p.m. CST All day 1 p.m.

All day 10 a.m.

All day 11:59 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

All day All day All day All day All day All day All day All day All day

PROGRAM - EVENT TITLE Oratorical - Zone 2 Contest (Districts 4/5) Oratorical - Zone 4 Contest (Districts 7/8/9) Oratorical - Zone 3 Contest (Districts 6/10/11) Oratorical - Zone 1 Contest (Districts 1/2/3) Bowling - Department Tournament I Oratorical - Department Contest Bowling - Department Tournament II Junior Shooting (JSSP) - Department Match Bowling - Department Tournament III Baseball - Team Registration/Fee Payment American Legion Family Scholarship Department of Indiana - Spring Conference Oratorical - National Contest JSSP - NRA Level 1 Rifle Coach School Department of Indiana - Close-Of-Books Hoosier Boys State Golf - Department Tournament Department of Indiana - State Convention Baseball - Department Tournament The American Legion - National Convention

LOCATION American Legion Post 296 (Fort Wayne) SPEA at Indiana University (Bloomington) American Legion Post 331 (Brownsburg) Munster High School - Door C (Munster) Classic Lanes (Bloomington) National Legion Headquarters (Indianapolis) Classic Lanes (Bloomington) American Legion Post 89 (Seymour) Classic Lanes (Bloomington) Deadline Deadline Marriott Indianapolis East Hotel (Indianapolis) Wyndham West Hotel (Indianapolis) Marriott Indianapolis East Hotel (Indianapolis) Indiana Veterans Home (Lafayette) Trine University (Angola) South Grove Golf Course (Indianapolis) Marriott Indianapolis East Hotel (Indianapolis) Indiana State University (Terre Haute) Baltimore, Maryland

HOOSIER LEGIONNAIRE 1st Quarter 2015

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