2021 1st Quarter Hoosier Legionnaire

Postsof The American Legion, Department of Indiana have been adversely affected by government-imposed restrictions on their public gatherings, social interactions, and revenueproducing activities during the Covid-19 health crisis.

The single most significant obstacle to post recovery and restoration is the lack of funds available for resuming essential operations. The Department Finance Committee has agreed to apply the surplus payroll in the current operating budget to posts in need of recovery and restoration support.

The American Legion National’s Mission Blue Post Assistance Program, offers limited financial assistance to posts applying for aid and has developed appropriate qualifying criteria

and application procedures which require verification by department officials. Since all qualifying criteria described in National’s assistance program conform to the expectations and limitations on use of and eligibility for a departmentlevel post recovery restoration program established by the department finance committee, any Indiana Legion post eligible under National’s assistance program, will automatically be qualified for the Department of Indiana’s Post Recovery and Restoration Program, and will receive a matching $1,000, for a total of $2,000 in assistance.

Commander Connelly believes that this program will assist those posts most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, and could make the crucial difference in the posts’ survival. “I hope that every

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qualifying post in need will apply for these funds. American Legion National has made this grant easy to apply for, and once approved, posts are quick to receive assistance. I encourage all posts to visit www. legion.org/coronavirus for more information.” The Mission Blue PAP application is located on the back of this issue of the Hoosier Legionnaire and may be completed and mailed to the address shown.

QUALIFYING CRITERIA:

American Legion posts who meet all qualifying criteria for the Mission Blue PAP Grant are eligible to receive up to $1,000.00. Department commanders/adjutants must certify the applicant post meets the following criteria:

• Must have a consolidated post

report on file.

• Must have filed an IRS 990 within the prescribed due date.

• Must have filed all other required forms and reports as prescribed by the department.

• Must have actively participated in one or more American Legion program(s) within the last 18 months.

• Must have a financial need.

• Must provide a certificate of insurance for all liability coverage naming The American Legion doing business as (dba) American Legion National Headquarters and the post’s department as an additional insured.(Submit declaration page showing coverage)

• Must provide documentation indicating that the post is properly incorporated.

MISSION BLUE POST ASSISTANCE PROGRAM GRANT APPLICATION

INSTRUCTIONS & MISSION BLUE POST ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

GRANT APPLICATION

POST GRANT (Application–Page 8): The Mission Blue Post Assistance Program (PAP) grant is intended to assist posts whose revenue has been negatively impacted from the effects of the COVID-19 health crisis within the community, as well as any governmentmandated restrictions. The funds distributed from this grant are to be exclusively used to meet financial responsibilities associated with maintaining post facilities and community presence. Grants are only approved to cover costs and fees associated with mortgage payments, rent, insurance premiums, and/or utilities. Recipient posts are prohibited from using funds to maintain or cover a loss of income from any registered post business (includ-

ing but not limited to post bars, cantinas, restaurants, etc.) paying post employees, building upgrades or repairs, taxes, fines/fees/ penalties, or funding post activities and programs. Posts who meet all the required criteria may receive up to $1,000.00 from the Mission Blue PAP fund. Department commanders/ adjutants are encouraged to complete a Mission Blue PAP grant application on behalf of the post.

QUALIFYING CRITE-

RIA: American Legion posts who meet all qualifying criteria for the Mission Blue PAP Grant are eligible to receive up to $1,000.00.

Department commanders/ adjutants must certify the applicant post meets the following criteria: •Must have a consolidated post report on file.•Must have filed an IRS 990 within the prescribed due date.•Must have filed all

other required forms and reports as prescribed by the department.•Must have actively participated in one or more American Legion program(s) within the last 18 months.•Must have a financial need.•Must provide a certificate of insurance for all liability coverage naming The American Legion doing business as (dba) American Legion National Headquarters and the post’s department as an additional insured.(Submit declaration page showing coverage)•Must provide documentation indicating that the post is properly incorporated.

REQUIRED APPLICATION INFORMATION

(Application–Page 3): Department leadership must verify that applicant posts meet all the qualifying criteria prior to submission of the grant application. Posts and departments do not need to submit any

bills or receipts along with grant applications. The application must be filled out completely and accurately to prevent delay in processing. Grant requests may be submitted in fillable PDF format and sent via email to IA@legion.org. Any questions regarding this grant should be directed to the Internal Affairs & Membership Division.

APPROVAL SIGNATURE OF GRANT APPLICATIONS: Upon review, if additional information is needed, the department will be contacted. If the application is properly completed and all qualifying criteria and requirements are met, the Internal Affairs & Membership Division will endorse the application and forward a request for funds to the Finance Division. After review and approval by the National Adjutant, a check will be issued and for-

warded to the department headquarters to disburse to the applicant post along with a grant fulfillment letter which will also include reporting instructions. If any of the above steps have not been taken, the application may be returned to the department headquarters for amendment or further clarification. Applications not approved will be returned to the department headquarters with reasons for disapproval who will then notify the applicant post.

REPORTING REQUIREMENTS: Posts are required to submit a true and accurate report outlining how the grant funds were used (mortgage, rent, insurance premiums, and/or utilities) within six months of the receipt of funds and no later than February 28, 2022. Information regarding the report format and submission will be included within the grant fulfillment letter. This

to all three and thank you to our volunteers and judges for your assistance. Judges: Anthony Conley, Christopher Gullion, Darrell Hansel, Gina Lacobucci, Kathryn Lerch.

Congratulations

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THE AMERICAN LEGION INTERNAL AFFAIRS & MEMBERSHIP DIVISION

For assistance in completing this application, or for contact information, contact your department at www.legion.org/departments.

Leading Hoosier Legionnaire Letters

Director.

After getting off to a great start this year and visiting all eleven districts in the early fall, traveling really slowed down. Many events, including district meetings were and continue to be cancelled.

us actually being able to meet in a traditional manner. I am optimistic this is really going to happen!

Good morning Fellow Legionnaires and all American Legion Family Members.

Mid-Winter Conference wrapped up, with a DEC meeting at the Marriott-East. Committee and commission meetings were once again held in a mostly virtual fashion, with a few in-person meetings at department headquarters. It was very disappointing to be forced to cancel the traditional Mid-Winter Conference, but I was once again pleased to see that we do have the means and expertise to conduct necessary business via electronic means. Nice job with that, Josh Marshall our Communications

The casualties of COVID continue to mount up. In addition to Mid-Winter Conference, the department Christmas party, Annual Lincoln Pilgrimage, Washington Conference, National May Meetings, and Boys State have all been cancelled or will be held virtually.

Good News…

We have moved the date of Spring Conference from March 25-27 to April 16-18.

The Marriott-East asked if we would consider this date change due to the entire NCAA March Madness Tournament being held in the State of Indiana this year. I believe this later date will enhance the chances of

I am extremely hopeful, that with many of our membership eligible to receive the vaccine now or in the near future, things will return to some semblance of normality sooner rather than later. As I write this, anyone over 65 is being urged to sign up for an appointment to receive the vaccine.

For those posts in need of financial assistance, it is available! The National Organization has created the Mission Blue Post Assistance Program. The application and requirements to qualify for a $1,000 grant are simple and straight forward. In addition, I am pleased to announce that the Department of Indiana is prepared to match that $1,000, so if you qualify for the National grant, you will receive $2,000. We know that many posts are

struggling financially as a result of lost business, etc., caused by the COVID. If there is one thing I do not want to see, it is posts closing their doors forever as a result of lost revenue due to the pandemic. If you find this to be the case with your post, please take a few minutes to complete this real simple application located on the back page of this issue.

I was able to participate in the delivery of a large shipment of winter kits to the Hoosier Veterans Assistance Foundation (HVAF) in Indianapolis December 3. This winter gear and toiletries will be a big help to the homeless. This gift was made possible by an Operation Comfort Warriors grant. I was also honored to speak at the annual Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day Ceremony at Post 249 this year.

Congratulations to Second District Commander Larry Burkhart and his membership

team on winning both the December and February target date competitions. Unfortunately, the winning prizes, The Lincoln Pilgrimage trip and the Washington Conference were cancelled due to the COVID. A commensurate cash prize was awarded. A big thank you goes out to all districts and posts on continuing to work hard on membership.

The Legacy Foundation is my project again this year. As I’ve stated in the past and will tell you again, this truly is an investment in the future of the Department of Indiana and the great programs we conduct. Thanks again, to all who have made donations. To those posts, squadrons, units, chapters, etc., considering a gift, please keep the Legacy Foundation in mind! As we approach this Easter Season, let us all remain thankful for the many blessings we have received.

“We Change Lives.”

Hoosier Legionnaires, You’re elected and appointed Department officers are continuing to conduct business despite the current COVID-19 environment. As instilled into us in our military training, we adapt and overcome together in order to complete our mission. And, as instilled into us through the Preamble of the Constitution of The American Legion, we serve the greater good and improve the lives of our veterans and their families through our devotion to mutual helpfulness.

At the time this article is written, the Department Headquarters office is currently operating full-time. Headquarters currently follows the guidelines set forth by the office of Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb, specifically

the color-coded, county status report published daily at www. coronavirus.in.gov. Color codes escalate from blue, yellow, orange and the most severe; red. Headquarters lies in Marion County, Indianapolis which currently stands at yellow. The Headquarters operations correlate to the color-coded system as such:

1. Blue: Operations continue as normal while maintaining all Health Department safety guidelines.

2. Yellow: Staff operates on a full-time schedule. Headquarters doors are open to public. All who enter must wear a mask, sign in and take their temperature at the door. All social distancing practices will be followed.

3. Orange: Headquarters staff operates on a reduced schedule with two employees in the headquarters at all times. Doors are closed to the public. Remaining staff works remote on a full-time basis.

4. Red: Headquarters staff works remotely. Doors are closed to the public. No one enters the building without

explicit permissions and records are kept of such.

As such, by simply checking the government website county COVID-19 status, you will know the operational status of Department Headquarters. ***

Spring Conference is currently in the planning stages and all indications predict that an in-person event is a realistic expectation. Headquarters will continue to monitor the situation and proceed with the safety of our membership at the forefront of our thoughts.

The dates of Spring Conference have been rescheduled as Indianapolis has secured the Big Ten basketball tournament which could result in competition of room and meeting space at the Marriott East Hotel. The new dates are Thursday, April 15 through Sunday, April 18, 2021. This reschedule improves the chances of holding an in-person as this allows for the winter weather and cold/flue season to break, as well as several more weeks of vaccinations for the at-risk population.

*** The Department Executive Committee convened on Saturday, February 13 and addressed the current need felt by many Posts statewide. The Department Commander, Allen Connelly, recently appointed an ad hoc committee to develop a grant program to assist Posts effected financially by the virus. The committee developed the post Recovery and Restoration Program (PRRP). The system is designed to mirror National Headquarters post grant program Mission Blue Post Assistance Program (MBPAP). Those Posts that apply and are approved for the National grant will receive an additional $1,000 from the Department of Indiana.

Eligibility for a Mission Blue Post Assistance Program grant requires posts to have:

1. A Consolidated Post Report on file.

2. Filed an IRS 990 within the prescribed due date.

3. Filed all other required forms and reports as prescribed by the department.

4. Actively participated in

one or more American Legion programs in the last 18 months.

5. A financial need.

6. A certificate of insurance naming The American Legion doing business as American Legion Department Headquarters and National Headquarters as an additional insured.

7. Documentation indicating that the post is properly incorporated. For more information regarding MBPAP and PRRP visit www.indianalegion.org.

***

The Department website has received a complete makeover giving at a more sleek and user friendly interface.

Communication Director Josh Marshall has done an excellent job in giving all Department communications a unified style, making our brand more recognizable to our target audiences. Visit www. indianalegion.org to interact with the new site and leave your suggestions and reviews for Department Headquarters.

Greetings from the department Auxiliary. It has been a long time between visits. We certainly are hoping to regain our person-to-person gatherings soon. We know we have to remain safe so we can’t hurry it along. I wish I could report on all we have done this winter, but we certainly cut back our normal projects, parties, and veteran visits.

We are in need of having

contacts to help out our veterans as well as our Legion families. Some of our posts and units are suffering due to no fundraising and closed canteens. We are certainly missing our friends and want them to be there when we get a break in the virus. We have already lost some of our friends and family and will diligently do our best to remain safe in our meetings and gatherings as we start up again. Our Auxiliary is still bringing in the membership. We are at 78% and still have that bet with the SAL and Legion. We haven’t collected our first win yet have we Commander Martin? Maybe by this summer we can at least collect on the

would make the best leader at the time. While I have never voted a straight ticket by checking the party box, I have had several that didn’t show much deviation.

first one before you have to pay for the second one. HaHa.

More than ever, we need to become the one family we always have been by working together to accomplish our main goal. We are here to help our veterans, communities, and families. We want to eliminate homelessness and fight for those with PTSD, so we cwan stop the suicides. We have a lot to do and have our hands tied right now. There are still ways to help, we need to find out how and fight even harder to get it done.

We have worked hard to raise funds for our veterans. I would like to brag a little bit about a couple of our chairmanships. VA&R Chairmanship, Tanna

Shepherd, Chairman reported over $40,000 of in-kind donations for our veterans (over 2 years). That’s not money, that’s articles of clothing, food, gifts, snacks, toiletries, games, etc. We collected over $10,000 from cash donations to be distributed to various hospitals, and medical facilities, and veteran needs, and $5,000 (just last year) toward the Veterans Creative Arts, with Sue Comerford as chair. I’m sure you will see the many more accomplishments in our Hoosier Auxiliary News coming out soon.

I hope we are able to meet up with everyone at Spring Conference and share some of what we have been doing since

last fall and what our plans are for the remainder of this year. The planning is not the hard part, it’s if we can carry it out, that’s questionable. Many of our January and February meetings have already been cancelled or rescheduled, so we may have a busy spring getting them all in. Remain safe in everything you do.

Wehave awesome members, chairman, and officers with great works and ideas to make this the best organization to belong to and be proud of. We will just have to step up and work to prove it.

Thank you Veterans, Legion, Auxiliary, SAL, and Legion Rider members for everything you do.

Once again the political party of the United States President changes. Being a “vintage” chaplain, the first presidential election in which I participated happened after I was twentyone. Through the years, I have been on both sides of the aisle trying to make my vote count towards the person I thought

I need to share with you that I grew up in a split home. My mother was from LaPorte which is one of the strong Democratic areas of our state. Her favorite Uncle was Sherriff and later Mayor. We grew up playing with Gov. Handley’s children who lived two doors away. Mom was a Democrat party worker who personally

knew and worked for Birch Bayh’s campaign. My father, on the other hand, was born in Chili (only a Hoosier can say it correctly), located in Miami County which was a Republican stronghold. My grandfather was running for sheriff when he had a heart attack and died a month before I was born. Dad’s brother-in-law was a state senator - Republicans of course.

For years my parents went to the polls and cancelled each other’s vote. When we would go to family gatherings on my mother’s side close to elections

my father would be singled out and baffooned for holding the wrong political views. Likewise, when my mother went to gatherings on my father’s side, she was seriously challenged for supporting the wrong candidate. I learned a lot as a kid coming of age as views and counter views were discussed (sometimes cussed) and shared. However, I never doubted that my parents loved each other plus we went to the same church and always sat together. In fact our extended families on both sides admired their in-laws. As my mother and father

aged, it was decided that they would move to the community where I lived and attend my church. I became their pastor. Lisa had shortly before become my wife and my second son was born after their move. Within a couple of years, I was assigned to a new church and of course my parents moved with us and we found housing for them close by. However, shortly after the move my mother became seriously ill, we thought it was something like a bad flu. It turned out to be multiple myeloma. She went into the county hospital and died fourteen days later.

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Leading Hoosier Legionnaire Letters

ten entries into this drawing by achieving membership excellence throughout the year. The first four entries have already been awarded but two opportunities remain to earn the remaining six entries into this cash competition.

How much of a difference in the community could your American Legion post make with an extra $1,000? This July, at our department convention, ten American Legion posts will receive a check for $1,000 in the Department of Indiana’s $1,000 Membership Excellence Cash Drawing. Your post could earn

Your post will earn two entries if you achieve 100% of the post’s assigned membership goal by the Spring Conference Target Date on April 3rd. Your post will earn four entries if you achieve a 95% retention rate by Close of Books on June 6th. Additionally, distinctive streamers for your post’s colors

Country and the overall rights of man” per the National American Legion web page.

The outer ring symbolizes the rays of the sun. It is meant to convey the Legion’s activities are meant to dispel violence and evil.

can be earned for achieving 100% Membership and 95% Retention. For full details, please consult the Department Membership Guide on our website. I’m also pleased to report that more than 600 Hoosier Legionnaires have enrolled in our Ten Year Membership Program in just our first 18 months. Recently all participating members received a unique pin as a thank you for their commitment to our organization. If you would like to join or renew your membership for ten years at a

The US at the center of the star leaves no doubt as our country is the brightest star in the Legion’s star.

cost of only $350.00, please visit our website at www. indianalegion.org/jointen.

Thank you for being a member of The American Legion Department of Indiana. If you are a volunteer in our organization, thank you for the gift of your time and efforts which make such a difference in the lives of our fellow veterans and children within our communities. If you have not yet volunteered, please consider doing so – it is a truly rewarding experience with many benefits including comradery with your fellow

veterans. Together, we’ll succeed in these trying and uncertain times

We look at it all of the time. It’s as ubiquitous as your post name or number. What is it?

The Emblem of The American Legion. Look at it closely and you will see it embodies much including a representation of the four pillars.

Overall, it stands for “God,

Following the outer ring is the wreath at the center. The wreath is to memorialize those who have died defending our country and way of life.

The star at the center of the wreath is for our victory in World War I. It also symbolizes “honor, glory and constancy”.

The larger of the two outer rings (surrounding American Legion) is for the rehabilitation of our sick and disabled comrades. The smaller ring symbolizes the welfare of our smaller citizens – the children.

There are two smaller rings set on the star. The inner ring represents our commitment to our communities, state and nation. The larger ring pledges our loyalty to Americanism.

Finally, the words American Legion “tie the whole together for truth, remembrance, constancy, honor, service, veterans affairs and rehabilitation, children and youth, loyalty, and Americanism.”

So the next time you look at the Legion emblem, remember what it symbolizes and be proud of your continued membership and service to our community, state and nation.

Reference and quoted text for this article were from the National American Legion web page.

Proactive Claims Filing:

Veterans often unknowingly extend their wait time for a VA decision by being too proactive. We all want to stay current as claims develop but multiple unnecessary inquiries and continuously supplying information can often result in confusion on the part of everyone concerned, including VA.

Before filing a VA claim for disability compensation benefits, please understand VA looks for three elements: (1) an incident or incidents in service, (2) a current medical condition, and (3) a medical link between numbers 1 and 2. VA will grant service connection if all three elements are found and relate to the benefit sought. Veterans should make sure they supply evidence of all three elements when filing their formal claim. If it will take some time to collected that evidence, the veteran may file an “Intent to File” notice with VA to hold the effective date of any eventual grant if the formal claim is filed within one year of VA receiving

the Intent to File notice. A few years ago, VA decisions could take months and sometime years to decide. In February 2019, VA started processing claims using the Appeal Modernization Act (AMA) system. This now allows VA to process most new claims within no more than 3 to 4 months. If the veteran finds new evidence after filing the formal claim, it is best to wait until a decision is made on the first claim before taking any further action. If the original claim is denied, the veteran can use the additional evidence or information for filing a supplemental claim, that, if granted, could still earn benefits

retroactively from the date of the originally filed claim.

Some claims are still taking much longer to decide, but those claims have experienced many interruptions and/or changes. Such as, when the veteran files for service connection of one or more medical conditions then adds more medical conditions, keeps suppling additional evidence or information, or is continually checking the status of the claim. Each time something new happens to a pending claim, VA must take additional action further delaying the claim.

If you have filed a fully developed claim containing the necessary information (the three

elements), please wait at least 3 to 4 months before taking further action, unless, of course, VA asks for more information or asks you to report for a compensation examination. As always, you should seek assistance from a qualified American Legion Accredited Service Officer (also available at most County Veterans Service Offices) before filing a VA claim, and then give VA time to process that claim before taking further action. Being proactive is still good, but the time to be proactive is before filing your claim.

DEPARTMENT CHAPLAIN

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My mother loved communion and never wanted to miss partaking. Since she was in the hospital, Lisa and I with Nathan and baby Josh went to visit her after church and take communion. Nathan served the communion to her after I gave the prayer of consecration. She beamed and was so grateful. Shortly after, she told me there was something that she needed to talk to me about. I knew from her expression that it was confessional in nature, so we gathered up the family, headed back to the parsonage and I returned to the hospital alone. Little did I know that this was her last day to be cognizant.

I pulled up a chair and drew close to her donning a confessional presence. “Mom”, I said, “There is something that you wanted to talk with me about?” She then began to share her “sin” and said “The only Republican I ever voted for had to resign!” For her era, McGovern’s views were so far radically left, that she had cast a vote for Nixon instead. I about fell out of my chair, but retained the confessional stance and said, “Mom, voting one way or the other is not a sin!” I had prayer with her and assured her of God’s forgiveness. It was the last conversation I was ever able to have with her that made sense.

We have been through a tough year not being able to meet in attempts to avoid COVID-19 (which found Lisa and I anyway). I have held funerals for several who have died from it. We have also come from a mean-spirited election that has polarized our nation. Regardless, you will never find me wearing a “Not My President” shirt for either 45 or 46. I believe God either wills or allows, but regardless he is ultimately in control.

This is my tenth president election for which I have had the privilege to vote. I will pray for him and his administration the same way I have been called to pray for those who preceded. As nonpartisan Legionnaires we can do no less and we can bind ourselves together in love for the good - just as my parents were able to do throughout their lives together.

I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people--for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.

1 Tim. 2:1-2 NIV.

from the District Commanders

Hello again from the 1st District. I wish I had better news to share. The Corona Virus has taken It’s toll. We have lost some members in both the legion and SAL. The posts are starting to have meetings again, if only e-boards. The district has not had a meeting in three months, but looking forward to a district meeting in March. We have been in the red zone for a couple of months now, but as of this letter we are now in the orange. We have our winners for the 1st District Flag Education. Mike Voyak from St. Mary’s in Griffith

and Melanie O’Conner from St. Thomas Moore in Munster. Congratulations to both these 4th grade students. They were sponsored by Al Pulido from Post 66 Griffith and Buzz Seydel from Post 16 Munster. Oratorical contest took place January 24th at Post 180, Highland. The 1st and 2nd Districts held the contests back to back. It was a treat to listen to their talks about the constitution and Supreme Court rulings. Want to congratulate Mary Buksa a senior out of Bishop Noll, as the 1st District winner and Harris Collins from Lafayette the 2nd District winner. Like to thank Jim Grouvogl, the Chairman of the Oratorical and school awards, for all his work for making this program happen.

We will have a candidate for Police Officer of the Year this year. John Sarnecki Sr. out of Post 369 is working very hard on this project to insure that all the “I’s” are dotted an all the “T’s” are crossed. I called my local VA, Adam Benjamin, and made an appointment for the Corona Vaccine. It was fast and easy. They sat me down, put a hole in my arm, put some joy juice in me, slapped some stop leak on the hole. Then it was off to sit in front of a nurse for 15 minutes to see if I had any reactions. No problems other than listening to the nurse’s bad jokes. Spring conference will be in April this year. Hope it comes off as planned. Stay safe.

America continues to endure one of its most horrific catastrophes, the pandemic. To place it in perspective, the magnitude of the death toll has already exceeded the combined American Military deaths in WWI, WWII, even including all deaths in the attacks of September 11, 2001, on the World Trade Center. We remain remorseful and heartbroken over the loss and suffrage of each family affected. However, the continued doom and gloom mentality has no place in America, we must seek a brighter future.

knowledgeable about the procedure to follow for receiving this vaccine.

I suggest that our posts reach out to its members and ascertain if they need assistance.

Complacency is often accepted as the status quo, in regards to membership, as our ranks continue to diminish.

allow I would personally acknowledge each of these heroes, by name and express my deepest gratitude.

The 2nd District is still working hard to maintain the protocol set before us. I would like to thank Mitch Mullins, our membership chairman, for his dedication, diligence,

and hard work to get The 2nd District from the bottom of the list to the top. Also, thanks to all The 2nd District vice commanders for all their hard work helping us to reach this goal. Thanks so much, guys! Keep working, guys, we still have work to do! As we continue on in a year filled with uncertainties and problems on every side, let

us remember that we are all still brothers and sisters in The American Legion. If we see one struggling let us be the first one to lift him up or be his crutch to lean on. Let us continue to pray for the families who lost loved ones to COVID-19. We know that many are still suffering, please remember them in prayer.

Fly, Fight, Win

Each and every day the sun is shining longer. The buds on trees will soon appear, along with spring flowers and a plethora of new life. The Eighth District of the Indiana American Legion is south of all of our other Districts. Therefore, it behooves our district to be the trendsetter of optimism and enthusiasm as spring arrives.

The nearly two million Legionnaires located at over 12,000 posts is the largest veteran’s service organization in the United States. However, our country has more than 18 million veterans, so only 11 percent of the eligible members are Legionnaires. When we think about spring’s arrival, give some thought into the 16 million veterans out there, which are not, a member of The American Legion. Think of these nonaffiliated members as new buds on the spring trees. These 16 million veterans could bring new life to our organization, which the American Legion requires to continue to provide the vital services to our service members, veterans, and our Nation.

Greetings from the Mighty Third.

I hope this message finds you all healthy and well. With the unfortunate cancellation of Mid-Winter and the continued global situation, a lot of us have been forced to forego a whole lot of activities (myself included).

With that being said, I anticipate getting out to as many of the posts in the 3rd district as I am physically able to and continue to spread the word regarding membership, the Commander’s Legacy Foundation, mylegion. org and as many of our programs as the posts will let me talk about.

A word on mylegion. org, it is a wonderful product. The posts that have switched over to it are loving it and

wondering why they didn’t switch over sooner. I am really glad that the SAL have gotten on the bandwagon and I look forward to assisting the SAL District Commander Dick Reed and his team as much as they will have me. Now on to activities. A lot of posts in the district are open but are enforcing the social distancing rules as well as they can. A lot depends on the county they are located in and then on the rules that their localities have enacted. I know that Post 297 in New Carlisle is having their Friday dinners as dine in (with social distancing) and carryout, Post 154 in Nappanee are also having Friday dinners as carryout only. Post 365 in North Liberty is serving food on a regular basis. Post 451 in Michigan City is also serving dinners (last I had heard). PLEASE CONTACT THE POST IN QUESTION (or any post in that matter) IN ORDER TO ENSURE THAT THEY ARE IN

FACT SERVING FOOD ON A SPECIFIC DAY AND AS TO THE HOURS OF SERVICE (don’t want someone to go to a post, find out they are not serving then blame me for wasting a trip). Now a shout out to the Sons. In November, Squadron 308 donated $1000 to Robert L. Millers Veterans Center in South Bend. The post will be serving fish dinners every Friday during Lent.

I wish I could name every active post in the district and what they are doing but somewhere along the way, I figured I would miss something, so I just went with some of the bigger examples. Please contact your local post so you can find out what they are doing and plan accordingly. Please check social media accounts for any scheduled activities with your local posts.

Thank you and I look forward to (hopefully) seeing a lot of familiar faces at the Spring Conference.

As we look to the stars, we need to acknowledge and accept our newest branch of the Armed Forces into our posts. The United States Space Force (USSF) was established in December 2019. My home post is already receiving members of this new branch of service as Legionnaires. It is the only independent space force in the world.

The vaccine for the COVID virus is now available depending on your age. Some of our members may not be

Waiting on the spring buds and flowers to bloom, I stand in admiration at the tree itself. It stood there alone throughout the frigid winter months, its flowers and leaves long since departed. It kept a bidding faith and belief that its sacrifices were essential. The tree itself represents the post officers and involved members. The post commanders, vice commanders, adjutants, chaplains, membership chairs, and the numerous committee chairs are the body of the Legion and first-line of defense and first-line of supporters of our programs and our veterans. If space would

When first embarking on this journey, I was keenly aware that the root of the 8th District is its past district commanders. They work diligently behind the scenes with little recognition long after leaving office. Their journey started as mere buds on the Legion’s tree, they progressed up through the ranks as post officers, then on to the ranks within the district. Some even progressed to positions at the department level. One (Jim Koutz) went on to become the National Commander of the American Legion. Living past 8th district commanders are Carl Wallace, Jerry Huls, Irvin Spencer, Jim Koutz, Bob Oeth, Owen Wells, Sam Fisher, Jesse Paschal, David Sharber, Marilea Decker, John Bubala, Jeff Carroll Sr., John Branson, Ron Hanger, Mel Vinson, Randy Dooley, Melvin Jantzen, Michael Brady, Ed Giltner, Daniel Lawson, Ron Byrley, Dave Bryant, Buckey Honaker, Kurt Pfeiffer, Larry French, and Sue Hunt.

It is time to put the feeling of despair and isolation aside, approach the spring with enthusiasm and vigor. Look with optimism that some of the 89 percent of veterans (16 Million) who have not yet joined our ranks within the Legion will soon do so. Continue to encourage and support each other, our veterans, service members and, our Nation.

I wish each of you a healthy, safe and productive new year.

Hello Everyone; I would like to mention the passing to post everlasting of 9th District Post 464 St. Leon member and Past Department Commander 1986 - 1987 Alvin O. Werner, a man that seems to be able to communicate with anyone. He will be sadly missed by everyone. I would like to continue to thank all you members out there for your continued hard work and support of your post and American Legion programs.

cancelled. The BOD felt this action was necessary to protect the well-being of the delegates and staff, and maintain the reputation and integrity of the program itself. Questions regarding said action should be directed to your District HBS District Chairperson(David Smith Post 33) or the Department Committee Chairperson (Chuck Mason).

With the continued support of our elderly members and the stepping up of our younger family members we will get through this together.

WE DO! Support and help our veterans and their children.

I’m encouraging our members to safely continue to participate and stay connected, in person or virtually.

With the COVID-19 cases decreasing in the state it looks like we may and I did say may have Spring Conference April 16 -18, 2021.

Greetings from the 4th District Commander, Officers, and membership.

After ten months of fighting this virus we are still working on membership and programs as best as we can. Now that the holidays are behind us, it is time to get to work on the spring

and summer programs. We were able to get in some schools for the Flag Education program. Not the number from past years, but at least we had some schools seeing the good in the program. Our membership is moving along at a steady pace. Just need more members making “Buddy Check Calls” on fellow members and veterans in this social distancing world. I hope that in March the 4th district can get back to having district meetings.

I’m Hoping the Spring Conference and Department Convention will happen, just to get to see my Legion friends and family and get back to some state of normal.

We need to get everyone back on track to do Legion business.

I hope everyone stays safe and healthy. I pray to see all of you soon.

May God bless America and The American Legion

As we move forward in the new year, we have had to cancel our January and February 9th District meetings. But we continue to have teleconference committees and membership meetings. So continue to reach out to your committee chairman and membership officers for any information you may need to stay up to date. As the COVID-19 guidelines and rules force us to cancel or modify our programs and meetings from day to day.

As I write this letter, by action of the Hoosier Boys State Board of Directors (BOD) , the 2021 session of Hoosiers Boys State(HBS) has been

As we continue to navigate through the COVID-19 pandemic and the colder season, stress and anxiety can take a toll on mental health. A simple call can help address things like, pandemic stress, depression (seasonal or otherwise), anxiety, relationships or family issues, substance abuse and suicidal thoughts. They might be feeling uncertain and worried, but knowing they have access to help through your outreach can be a big relief to some. This outreach (Buddy Checks) is the duty of all members of the Legion Family, not just the officers of the post or district. I am asking all fellow members to reach out to your fellow Legion Family members at this time and check up on them to make sure they are okay. THIS IS WHAT

As of January 1, 2021 your dues are past due and need to be submitted as soon as possible if you have not done so, pay at the post in person, mail to your post or pay online. This will keep your continued years intact.

There is a TEN YEAR

MEMBERSHIP PLAN at this time that will save you some money. You will be paid up for ten years and will not have to worry about yearly dues. Check with your membership officer at the post.

Remember that part of your dues goes to help lobby Congress for veterans and children of veterans benefits that are badly needed.

Continue to adhere to the mandates set forth by the Governor and County Health Department, (face mask, hand sanitizer and social distancing).

Keep up the good work and keep thinking of new ways to reach out to your members.

Stay safe as you travel.

from the District Commanders

Greetings, I hope you all had a wonderful Holiday season. 2020 is finally behind us, let us pray that 2021 will be a much better year.

Though we have not been able to hold our conferences there is still a lot of work being done and a lot more to do before the Close of Books. With Boys State being cancelled for 2021 and some other programs still up in the air we can use the time to focus on conducting Buddy Checks and pushing membership.

I am proud of the hard work that has been put in so far by all the district officers and posts. We have the momentum and must continue to work towards our goal of 100%. Our recent revitalizations

were a success as we transferred 107 members into the district. The list containing expired 20192020 members were given to the vice commanders who will distribute them to the posts. Posts should contact these members to check on them and encourage them to renew. Let them know why they should belong, explain the American Legion programs and inform them of the activities your post is conducting and what you are doing in the Community to help Veterans and others. With the pandemic forcing posts to close some may be in financial difficulty. To those who are I encourage you to apply for the $1,000 grants being provided by National as “Mission Blue Post Assistance Program.” The application and qualifications can be found in this issue. Remember, these are grants and do not have to be repaid.

Recipients of a grant will also qualify for assistance from department. We were finally able to hold a department level face-to-face meeting when the DEC met on February 13, at the Marriot. Spring Conference is scheduled for April 15-18, let us keep our fingers crossed.

I want to congratulate Ben Heady, our Oratorical candidate, who will be competing at the department contest. Good luck, Ben! I want to remind all posts that the district is here for you. If you need any assistance or have questions do not hesitate to contact district officer.

Lastly, I want to thank Mike Showalter for his years of service as post, district and department service officer. Mike has a new job that makes it difficult to fulfill those duties. Brian Evans from Richmond Post 315 is our new district service officer!

DEPARTMENT OF INDIANA VETERANS ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS

By Programs Director, Butch Miller

We’ve all heard the adage, “If you talk the talk, then you better be able to walk the walk!”, or some variation thereof. It’s normally used in response or reference to a person or group when they claim in advance, that they will accomplish an important and difficult task. For over 100 years, our Department programs can claim to have fulfilled the challenge of this adage annually, for the life of the particular program. But those years would be considered “normal” years, in comparison to 2020. Since being struck by the pandemic, most of our programs have, for the most part, been prevented from talking the talk, and quarantined from even thinking about walking the walk. Some say that for the last year, we’ve been “shut-down”. I don’t agree with that assessment. I would think that we have been “dormant”, or since its winter, we’ve been “hibernating”. We may not have been doing what we would normally have been doing . . . but things are still being done, and I have an exceptional example to prove it.

The Department of Indiana is one of just a few departments that have established a program to provide financial assistance to veterans, both with and without a spouse and children. The first such established program was the Children’s Education and Welfare Fund (CEWF) program. This program provides reimbursement to any post or district which provided financial assistance to an eligible veteran with full-time dependent children in the home. Under the CEWF program, the maximum assistance reimbursement is $500.

A few years ago, the department established another assistance program called the Indiana Veterans Emergency Transition System (IVETS). The purpose and process of the IVETS program is the same as the CEWF program, except, to be eligible for the IVETS program, the veteran is NOT required to have full-time dependent children. Also, under the IVETS program, the maximum assistance reimbursement is $300.

When the CEWF and IVETS programs were established, the Children’s Education and Welfare Committee (CEWC) at the time was responsible in establishing a “normal” program procedure, whereby reimbursement applications submitted by a participating post or district would be considered for approval by the full CEWC, which consists of 23 members representing all 11 Districts. Such full CEWC review would happen at a department conference or convention. Under the normal processing procedures, for an application to be

considered and approved, it could take nearly 90 days for a post or district to receive the requested reimbursement.

At the same time, the CEWC was visionary in recognizing that there may be a time when “normal” would not apply, such as during the current pandemic, but posts and districts would still continue to perform their duties and responsibilities to provide assistance to eligible veterans.

In situation such as this, the rules of the CEWF / IVETS program allow for the adoption of an “emergency” application procedure. Under the “emergency” procedures, an application received from a post or district is NOT held for a full CEWC review, but rather, is immediately reviewed by an emergency review sub-committee made up of three experienced CEWC members, who have been selected by vote of the full CEWC. Under “emergency” processing procedure, if an application is approved, a reimbursement check is issued to the post or district within five business days.

During the current pandemic period which began on March 13, 2020 and is ongoing, utilizing the “emergency” processing procedures, the CEWC has accomplished the following:

1. Total number of applications received - 48

2. Total number of applications processed - 42

a. CEWF application

i. Received - 9

ii. Returned - 0

iii. Approved - 9

iv. Total assistance reimbursements

- $4,274.00

v. Average CEWF reimbursement$475.00

b. IVETS applications

i. Received - 39

ii. Returned - 6

iii. Approved – 33

iv. Total assistance reimbursements

- $9,398.00

v. Average IVETS reimbursement$224.00

3. Total assistance provided thru the Posts and Districts - $13,672.

The courage and foresight of the department membership in establishing these assistance programs is truly enviable and puts other department on notice that when it comes to “vets helping vets”, the department of Indiana DOES talk the talk, and it DOES walk the walk . . . even during a pandemic.

Every member of the department should take great pride in the veteran’s assistance efforts of their post, district and department. And every member can be confident in the knowledge that in The American Legion, Department of Indiana, “We Change Lives!”

Hello from the 11th District. Since the last newsletter, we have accomplished a lot in spite of the setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The programs and meetings are continuing on with some adjustments, such as using virtual connections. We have given awards for Fourth Grade Flag Education, Fire Fighter of

the Year is Battalion Chief Anthony P. Williamson, and Law Enforcement Officer of the Year is Officer Richard Faulkner

Jr. Ongoing is the Oratorical contest. The district winner is Haley Bock.

Post 360 held a televised Memorial service at the Williams Creek Cemetery 845 W. 96th St. on December 5th. Great job Clifton Morland!

The Annual Pearl Harbor Day Memorial service was Hosted by Post 249 on December

11. Thanks again Post 249 for your Hospitality and continuing service to your community.

We are looking for a Flag Education Chair Person, as Guy Clemons from Post 355 will be retiring at the end of this term. Thank you Guy for all your service these quickly past few years. Hopefully, everyone will get their Covid-19 immunization shots soon. We should be back to living our lives without fear in the near future.

FUTURE (DEPARTMENT & NATIONAL) Program, Conference

and Convention

Dates

2021 – 2026

The following dates are subject to change at any time and without notice. Please visit: www.indianalegion.org for the most current information.

“*” - Indicates that the projected date(s) shown has not been approved by the DEC.

“TBD” – Indicates that the exact meeting dates have not yet been approved by the NEC.

2021 Spring Conference

April 16-18

National Spring Conference May 3-6

Close of Books

Department Convention

June 6

July 7-11

National Convention – Phoenix, AZ August 27 – September 2

Auxiliary Fall Conference

Fall Conference

National Fall Conference

2022 Mid-Winter Conference

National Washington Conference

Spring Conference

National Spring Conference

Close of Books

Department Convention

September 16 - 19

September 30 – October 3

October 4-7

January 13-16

February 27 – March 2

April 7-10

May 2-5

* - June 5

July 6-10

National Convention – Milwaukee, WI August 26 – September 1

Auxiliary Fall Conference September 22-25

Fall Conference September 29 – October 2

National Fall Conference October 10-13

2023 Mid-Winter Conference

National Washington Conference

January 12-15

February 26 – March 1

Spring Conference April 6-9

National Spring Conference May 8-11

Close of Books * - June 4

Department Convention July 5-9

National Convention – Charlotte, NC August 25-31

Auxiliary Fall Conference

Fall Conference

National Fall Conference

2024 – Mid-Winter Conference

National Washington Conference

Spring

September 21-24

September 28- October 1

October 10-12

January 11-14

February 24-28

DEPARTMENT COMMISSION R EPORTS

There were no requests for funds and no resolutions.

meet at the 2021 Spring Conference.

The Children & Youth Commission met via teleconference at 12 p.m. on Thursday, February 11, 2021. The meeting was opened by Bob Oeth. Roll Call revealed seven (7) present, four (4) absent, three (3) excused and two (2) guests. As the Midwinter Conference was cancelled, the following committees of the C&Y Commission met via teleconference: Hoosier Boys State Board of Directors/ American Legion Family Scholarship. The minutes of these meetings follow as well as status updates from the Commission Chairs follow.

American Legion Family Scholarship

The American Legion Family Scholarship met virtually at 7 p.m. on Thursday, February 11, 2021. Call to orderChairman Wayne Zeman.

Roll call - PresentChairman and 3rd district rep Wayne Zeman, Vice Chairperson Carole Kehl, Secretary Mike Ayers, 5th district Michael Harrison, 7th district Jim May, 10th district Mike Fowler

Old BusinessChairman Zeman gave an update on the number of scholarship applications received so far and also the deadline date of March 15, 2021.

It was decided by the chairman that those in attendance at the virtual meeting would serve on the judging committee which will meet at the Spring Conference, April 17, 2021.

District reports –Verbal reports were received from districts 3,5,7 and 10. The consensus was because of COVID-19 many posts and districts have not been able to have meetings. Also, many schools have been doing virtual learning adding to the communication challenges. The district reps present noted they will make a concerted effort to contact the schools in their districts.

Adjutant John Crosby and Chairman Zeman will work together to us the web site to promote the program.

New Business- There were two motions before the committee, and both passed.

Motion number one -

To increase the number of scholarships by one beginning this spring 2021. Motion made by Jim May, 7th district and seconded by VC Carole Kehl. Motion carried.

Second motion- To make Trade school attendees eligible for the ALFS effective Spring 2021. Motion made by Mike Fowler,10th district and seconded by Jim May, 7th district. Motion carried.

Crosby reported that the Spring Conference held at the Marriott East had been moved to the weekend of April 16 –18.

Chairman Zeman thanked the committee for service and the meeting ended in normal fashion.

Americanism & Government Testing

Preliminary summary of winners has been submitted to Programs Director Butch Miller. Intent is to present awards to the winners on stage of the Spring Conference General Session. Two districts are yet to submit their certifications.

Hoosier Boys State Enrollment Committee

The Hoosier Boys State Enrollment Committee met via teleconference on October 21, 2020. The program was scheduled for 2021 June 12-18, 2021. The meeting was called to order at 6:05 p.m.

Present were Chairman Chuck Mason, 3rd District Chairman Rob Kelley, 2nd District Chairman and HBS

Director Scot Weyler, 5th District Chairman Richie King Sr, 8th District Chairman Bob Oeth and 11th District Chairman Richard Brown.

Discussion on the 2021 program was held with 5 of the members in favor of in person HBS Program. It was agreed that the program “must” be safe for the delegates and the staff, along with the employees of Trine University.

The committee also discussed a virtual program with the assistance of Trine Staff. We need to know what financial effect this will have on the program. Some of the committee members will travel to Trine to discuss HBS 2021 options.

If we are able to have the in-person program, we believe that last year’s delegates who missed their opportunity should be able to attend the 2021 Session if they wish. Ultimately the Indiana State Governor, Trine University, and our Department Commander will advise whether we should have the 2021 Program.

Discussion was held on the start date for the enrollment process should be on January 1, 2021.

After the trip to Trine University we will keep the Committee apprised of the results of that meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 6:35 p.m.

UPDATE: The 2021 Hoosier Boys State program was cancelled both in-person and virtually per a unanimous vote by the Board of Directors on January 31, 2021. The Board of Directors plans to

Children’s Education & Welfare Committee

CEWC has not meet, however since the beginning of the pandemic we have been operating under the committee’s emergency provisions which provide for a subcommittee of three to approve/deny all financial assistance applications. There has been a substantial increase in application during the global pandemic, sometimes several a day.

Since that time, the average turn-around for a financial assistance application is less than five days from receipt at department to reimbursement of the submitting post. This prompt and efficient processing of financial assistance applications would not have been possible without the efforts of Programs Director Miller, Finance Director Mark Bernhardt and my fellow subcommittee members, NEC Jerry Jordan & Finance Officer Jim Tracey.

Flag Education

All 11 Districts participated in this year’s Flag Education Committee. Our winners are:

6th District, Post 288, Kyleigh Elkins

11th District, Post 34, Aiden Kennedy

Junior Shooting Sports

Two tournaments this upcoming JSSP program year with requests submitted for additional scholarships. The program is growing. The tournaments will be held in two locations, one in the north at Bass & Bucks in Wabash, Ind., and one in the south at Shelbyville Post 70. Two classes of competition will be conducted this year, sporter and precision.

Oratorical

Only two zones that put forth contestants. Department competition is currently scheduled for March 7, 2021 in the National Executive Committee room of the Legion’s National Headquarters.

Commander Allen Connelly is optimistic that Spring Conference will take place as planned, especially with the COVID-19 vaccination timetable. The conference has been moved out three weeks to the right to April 15 – 18, 2021 which should allow for more vaccinations.

There being no further business to be conducted, Chairman Oeth closed the meeting at 12:19 p.m.

Due to the uncertainty of the pandemic situation the Rehabilitation Commission did not meet. Some of the Committee Chairs have been in contact with the

district representatives but in most cases due to the pandemic personal contact with the various places, nursing homes and hospitals for instance has not been able to be done. Therefore, a phone call or an e-mail may be the only way to see if the Rehabilitation Committees can be of help.

Hopefully by the

time the Joint Spring Conference rolls around April 15—18, we may be back closer to some sense of normalcy and the Committees can meet. We can get back to helping our veterans in the manner we are supposed to.

Until then, stay healthy and safe. We hope to see everyone at Spring Conference.

The Internal Affairs Commission met via teleconference at 10:02 a.m. on Thursday, February 11, 2021. The meeting was opened in proper form by Chairman Paul Smith. Roll Call revealed ten (10) present, one (1) absent and three (3) excused. As the Mid-winter conference was cancelled, the following committees of the IA Commission met via teleconference: Firefighter/Emergency Medical Services/Law & Order Committee, Membership Committee. The minutes of these meetings follow.

Firefighter/Emergency Medical Services/Law & Order Committee

The American Legion, Department of Indiana Firefighter/EMS/Law & Order Committee had a teleconference on January 30, 2021. The meeting was opened by the Chair Laurie Bowan at 10:00 am.

The roll call revealed 9 members were present 5 absent and one guest. Minutes were read from the 1/11/20 midwinter conference, motion was made to accept, and motion carried.

Old Business: Those in attendance gave an update on how many nominees they had at the present time.

New Business: A motion was made by Ron Byrley & seconded by Ron Ordelheide to request $1,000 to cover mileage of all committee members if we do not have a Spring Conference and to cover the cost of plaques for the 3 judges for the 2020-2021 Department nominees. Motion carried. Chair Laurie Bowman explained the judges would be a panel of 3 comprised of a law officer, EMS & firefighters to select the department winners from the district submissions.

A motion was made by Ron Byrley to have the independent panel and was seconded by Robert Burkhart. The motion carried.

A discussion was held on the binders normally provided by the

department. Butch Miller explained that posts & districts can use any binder just so the packet is in neat and proper order when submitted to the department. Ron Byrley asked about getting the copy of the redacted packets from the previous year’s winners and Butch Miller said since we did not have it last year, he didn’t have this done but for next year he will make copies of the 2020-2021 Department winner packets and it would be the committee chair’s responsibility to redact them so they can be made available with the application on the department’s website.

Chair Laurie Bowman ensured everyone was aware that the supporting documentation can only be 25 pages 8½ by 11 paper, this does not include the application form itself. She also addressed the photos and that they need to be professional quality. Butch Miller added that the photos need to be of high quality and likeness of the nominee, and they must be a current photo.

At the Spring Conference, everyone will be encouraged to bring their nomination packets so we can ensure they are in proper form.

The committee will meet for an hour at the Spring Conference.

There being no further business the meeting was adjourned by Chair Laurie Bowman at 10:45 am.

Membership Committee

The Department Membership Committee met for a seventh time on January 16th and for an eighth time on February 7th, both by teleconference. All districts were represented. Best practices were shared from throughout the Department of Indiana, upcoming national renewal mailings and national target dates were discussed, and updates were provided by the Department Commander and Staff. Of particular importance were discussions regarding the importance of timely submission of membership dues to ensure members do not receive unnecessary renewal notices and posts are compliant with the Department and

National Constitution & By-Law’s. The Department Membership Committee will meet for a ninth time, via teleconference, on March 7th to mark the American Legion Birthday 92% Department Target Date.

Indiana Youth Law Cadet Committee Committee to meet with Indiana State Police on March 10, 2021 at the Garrison Restaurant to discuss this year’s program. The program is currently moving forward as planned. Application is published on the Indiana State Police website.

Public Relations

Roger Hilligoss requested a time and place to meet for judging the Department Newsletter Competition from the Department Headquarters.

Bob Newman reported that the National Internal Affairs Commission has cancelled the Washington D.C. Conference. The top elected officials of the National Headquarters will be live broadcast of their efforts in Washington this year. Newman stated that this past year has been extraordinarily difficult both on the Department and National Headquarters, however the most effected are the children who do not have access to The American Legion’s youth scholarship programs.

Adjutant John Crosby stated Department is cautiously optimistic that Spring Conference will move forward as planned. Following the Department Executive Committee scheduled for Saturday, February 13, 2021, Department will reach out to all Department Committee Chairs to schedule their meeting needs as many committees have not met in more than a year.

Commander Allen Connelly is optimistic that Spring Conference will take place as planned, especially with the COVID-19 vaccination timetable. The conference has been moved out three weeks to the right to April 15 – 18, 2021 which should allow for more vaccinations.

There being no further business to be conducted, Chair Smith closed the meeting at 10:19 a.m.

The Americanism Commission met via teleconference at 10:06 a.m. on Friday, February 12, 2021. Commission Chair Rick Hudson opened the meeting at 10:06 a.m. Roll Call revealed 2 members and 3 guests present including Department Commander Allen Connelly.

Baseball Committee

Programs Director Butch Miller provided a synopsis of the Baseball Committee who met Saturday, February 6, 2021 at 1 p.m. at the Department Headquarters. Six (6) were present and eight

Written By: Kate Roudebush

“Wherever I go and whatever I encounter, you will always be my inspiration and I hope life will always be a bowl of cherries for you. You are a great kid and one that can survive all the hardships and blue days that are ahead,” Infantryman Roy Hamm wrote in a letter to his wife Myrtle (Bootsie) Hamm. When war tears the world apart, love brings it back together.

My great grandfather, Roy Hamm, was born on February 2, 1910, in Mason County, Kentucky.

On July 15, 1939, Roy Hamm married my great grandmother Myrtle Kirk. Not long after saying “I do,” their lives changed drastically.

As World War II consumed the world’s attention, Roy was drafted into the army.

He was part of the 79th Infantry Division in the 314th unit. The 79th Infantry Division was also known as the ‘Cross of Lorraine.’ Roy was in the Rainbow Division.

Roy trained in Oklahoma before going to England for additional training. On D-Day plus six, he landed on Utah Beach in Normandy. Roy fought his first battle in France in June of 1944.

While he was away in boot camp and combat, he kept in touch with Myrtle through handwritten letters. He writes to Myrtle (Bootsie) with fondness and adoration. The letters Myrtle saved from Roy were kept in my family. This collection of hundreds of letters spanning the three years Roy was serving in the army are now piled high as typed copies in a large green book.

The letters served as a way to keep Bootsie up to date as much as possible. Roy would tell her where he was, what he’d been doing, and what he was expecting to do in the near future. As time passed and his daily routine changed, so did the details of his letters.

Roy’s first letter was written in September 1943 when he arrived at his first training destination. “Here I am at last, somewhere in Oklahoma, and boy the dust is severe – haven’t got stationed yet but will be soon, I hope,” he said.

One thing remained the same in every letter to Bootsie regardless of what was going on around the world: Roy’s love. In nearly all of his letters from his first September away, Roy managed to write something about his love for Myrtle. “If I could just see you five minutes then life wouldn’t be so bad. I guess a person never realizes how much one can care for another until he’s gone,” Roy said. “Myrtle, believe it or not, with all the truth in the world I am saying this, you know I used to kid you about the movie stars, well that’s all bunk. I would not exchange 12 years with all of them for one minute with you. I hope you get this straight, you are mine, all I ever look forward to seeing and having you again.”

(8) called in. National Headquarters has more than 300 teams signed up to date. Discussion ensued as to background checks on coaches and managers for youth safety. Department is planning to continue with the Baseball program this program year. The committee will meet at Spring Conference.

Bowling Committee

The Bowling Committee communicated through email several times throughout the year. The 2020 Bowling Competition was cut short due to the global pandemic. The committee voted 19-2 to cancel the 2021 competition. This decision was influenced by the National Bowling Rules and restrictions for safety. Committee is searching for a site for the 2022 competition with one proposal

Roy’s letters continue on for over two years in the same manner; loving and longing to be with his wife once again.

On September 4, 1944, Roy wrote from somewhere in France, “You ask me if I ever forget about you. Well, you just might as well hit me as ask me that, it wouldn’t hurt much worse. Bootsie, there couldn’t be any person on earth who loves another as I do you, maybe as much but no more. You are all I ever dream of, of wanting to come home to,” he said.

Amongst all of his experiences throughout the war – the training, the foxholes, the casualties – Roy never once forgot what he was fighting so hard to return to, “Hello darling and that’s what I mean, you ask me if I ever missed you. I guess I can’t express the answer in words Bootsie. I will just only say yes, a million times. What I would give to be with you,” he said. “I wish I could tell you something of conditions over here but of course that’s impossible now but if I am one of the lucky ones to survive it all, I can tell you lots then. So until I see you again, I remain forever yours and all the love in the world.”

Roy signed many of his letters this way, often writing, “With all my love I remain forever yours –Roy.” Yet another reminder of just how deeply he loved her.

Roy eventually returned home to Indiana and was happily reunited with Bootsie. Together they had a son, Joe Hamm, who is my mother’s father.

My great grandparents are remembered lovingly by the family members who were fortunate enough to

already submitted.

Discussion ensued as to how to gain more interest amongst department committee chairs to participate in virtual meetings and conference calls for the interim until the pandemic subsides. Department encouraged committees and explained that regardless that relatively no business has been conducted this past program year, committees should still maintain an aggressive posture to plan for the future and restart our programs once health safety restrictions are lifted. Rick Hudson encouraged department to address this issue at the Department Executive Committee.

There being no further business, the commission adjourned at 10:24 a.m.

In his letter written on September 18, 1943, Roy said, “Sure wish I was with you, but fate has chosen another way so until that time when we are together again, we’ll have to make the best of it.”

know them.

Uncle Roy loved to play baseball, so during recess on nice days, he would go out and play ball with the kids. Aunt Bootsie would come to the door and ring her school bell for them to come back in and Roy would raise his hand and signal just a minute to her. But they usually stayed out longer than another minute,” Nancy Huse, niece to Roy and Bootsie said.

Janet Williams, Roy and Bootsie’s niece said, “Uncle Roy used to play Kick The Can with all of us kids in their big side yard. He was a big kid himself.”

“He (Roy) would always take us for a ride in the cart behind the lawnmower, then take us all for a ride on the bus! That was fun,” Jackie Kraemer, another one of their nieces said.

“I remember they always had a huge strawberry patch and we’d go pick berries and eat tons of them. They were very special and some of my favorite memories are of times with them and Joe,” Huse said. “I miss all of them a lot!!”

It is clear that Roy and Bootsie loved their family dearly, and everyone seems to remember very well just how much they loved each other.

“I do remember my mom talking about when Uncle Roy was away in the war that she lived with Aunt Bootsie. She said your grandpa worried about her and my mom while he couldn’t be there. It’s funny about correspondence to loved ones during wartime. They always mask what is really happening, making it sound like everything is ok,” Williams said. “They

were wonderful people and they loved each other so much. I had the best childhood because they were a part of my life. I miss them all so much.”

Roy was honorably discharged from his service on December 21, 1945. His last letter is dated December 23, 1944, “Dear Bootsie, And how you be? I am alright and hope you are the same. I guess as I am writing this you may be finishing your Christmas tree of its decorations. Wish I could see it and be there to see the enjoyment that will arise thru the feeling of good will and sentiment toward all. Anyway Bootsie, I may not be there in person but my thoughts will be there so in that way my enjoyment will come thru knowing you are free to enjoy it. How are all the folks? Give them all my best regards and good wishes. News is scarce so will close saying I send you all my love. So be good and good luck. As ever I remain – Roy,” he said.

Throughout each of his letters, Roy reminded Myrtle of how much he loved her and couldn’t wait to return to their life together. Rarely did he mention the horrid experiences of war, but he kept his writings focused on the one thing that was motivating him to do his best and return home: Bootsie.

Roy passed away on December 19, 1972. Nearly twenty-one years later, Myrtle passed away on October 10, 1993.

While I may not have been lucky enough to meet Roy and Bootsie, I have been lucky enough to grow up hearing many stories about them. I could not be more proud to be related to two such loving people and to be raised by a family who exhibits the same love for others that they did.

This story was shared with us by Debi Binkley, a former student at the Indiana Soldiers & Sailors Children’s Home in Knightstown, Indiana. Debi writes “I was sharing with someone yesterday how much The American Legion meant to me and how supportive the organization was to us when I lived at the home. … This is an article my granddaughter, Kate Roudebush, recently wrote for her high school journalism class. It talks about her great grandparents when her great grandfather was in World War II. Roy Hamm was from Knightstown, Indiana and was an Indiana Army veteran.”

“With all my love I remain forever yours”

Roy and Myrtle

Official Army photo – September 1944

“I am in the second jeep behind first jeep in middle row.”

“Me in a mudhole France 1944”

ASSISTANCE PROGRAM GRANT APPLICATION

from page 1

report should be reviewed by department headquarters prior to forwarding it to the Internal Affairs & Membership Division at the national headquarters.

ADDITIONAL INSTRUCTIONS

1.This form contains two sections: a post information section and a department verification section. Both sections mustbe completed in full. Departments will need to review the instructions and information within this document with theapplicant post prior to completing the grant application.

2.Departments will need to obtain the necessary records to verify all qualifying criteria have been met. These are onlyfor the department verification process and additional records do not need to be sent to national headquarters alongwith the application. If additional information is needed for the review process, the department will be contacted.

3.Mission Blue PAP grants are strictly for assisting posts with facility related expenses (as outlined in Resolution 36,October 2020). Bills, receipts, and itemized expenses are not required with this application.

REMINDER: Mission Blue PAP grants are not provided to cover costs or lost revenue associated with any post business, such as bars, cantinas, pubs, restaurants, club rooms, etc.

4.Ensure all sections of the application are complete and the appropriate signatures are obtained.

5.Applications must be submitted national headquarters by the department headquarters for approval. All applicationssent directly to national headquarters by any other means will be returned to the appropriate department headquarterswithout review or action.

6.If you have questions

concerning the Mission Blue PAP Grant and application, please contact the Internal Affairs &Membership Division using the information below.

Before sending a Mission Blue PAP application to The American Legion National Headquarters, did you:

• Verify the applicant post has met all the required criteria for grant consideration? • Complete all sections of the application and attach all required documents?• Provide a copy of post’s insurance declaration page showing The American Legion National Head-

quarters asan additional insured on the post’s liability (aka general liability) coverage?• Sign and date the application?

The American Legion Mission Blue Post Assistance Program PO Box 1055 Indianapolis, IN 46206 (317)630-1330 Email: IA@legion.org

certifies that the applicant post has met all the following criteria. (All must be checked to be considered for grant approval.)

The Consolidated Post Report (CPR) for the current calendar year has been submitted to national headquarters.

Filed IRS 990 within the prescribed due date.

All department required annual forms have been submitted to the department for the upcoming year (including the Post Officer

Certification Form).

Participated in one or more American Legion programs in the last 18 months.

Post must have a financial need.

The post is properly insured and the national headquarters is listed as additionally insured (declaration page attached).

Ensure post is properly incorporated.

The post agrees to use all funds dispersed by this grant to cover only approved expenses AND will provide a report to department demonstrating how those funds were used within 180 days of receipt of funds or no later than February 28, 2022.

(NOTE: Department will need to relay all reports back to Mission Blue PAP administrators at national headquarters.)

Upon Signature, this form must be sent to national headquarters

NOTICE: If a post is a recipient of a Mission Blue P AP grant and would like to be contacted by staff from The American Legion National Headquarters to publicly share your story of how The American Legion assisted you, please sign below. Your testimonial will be used in print, marketing and online American Legion Media. Mission Blue P AP stories promote the American Legion Mission Blue P AP Fundraising efforts, through which grants are made possible, and how donations to the fund support ongoing assistance for American Legion Posts, veterans, and their communities.

FOR DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS USE ONLY: