2022 2nd Quarter Hoosier Legionnaire

Teamwork Leads to Six-Figure Donation

Steve DeFeo

At the end of its annual fundraiser for Operation Comfort Warriors, the leaders of each of the four entities attached to Kenneth N. Dowden Wayne Post 64 presented donations totaling $100,000 to Indiana’s Past National Commander Jim Koutz for Operation Comfort Warrior.

This is just the latest example of how the various Legion Family entities function at the Indianapolis west-side post.

American Legion Wayne Post 64 was chartered on November 26th, 1932 and was located at different locations until 1949 when nearly 25 acres were purchased and a building erected at 601 South Holt Road in Indianapolis. In 2004 plans were laid for building a new post, which could be used to grow membership. In May 2006 they opened their doors to the new building; a large facility with a Club Room and Banquet room. In 2019, the post added a large outdoor pavilion in time to host events associated with the 101st American Legion National Convention.

“Our Auxiliary, Sons, Riders and Legionnaires work well together to get things done,” Post Commander Glen Hawkins remarked. “During big events, we all come together to get things done,” Hawkins said.

When the National American Legion Convention was hosted in Indianapolis, Post 64 hosted numerous convention-related events. During that week, the Riders handled parking and security – 24 hours a day during the convention. Not to be left out, the Sons Detachment kept the facility in order despite the large crowds. The Auxiliary helped with the food and were hostesses. Finally, the Legionnaires were there to be hosts, coordinate efforts, and fill in where needed.

More recently, when The Helping Heroes Freedom Ride needed a location to use as the base for their charity ride around I-465, Post 64 stepped up to offer its facilities and services.

“It was an impressive sight to see how everyone at the Post worked together to plan and support the charity ride,” Hawkins explained. “We had more than 400 motorcycles and more than 800 people here for the ride. The place was packed. The event had a band with an outdoor stage, Huey helicopter rides, and an appearance by Medal of Honor recipient Sammy Davis”, the commander said.

The event organizers were so impressed by the short-notice efforts of the post members that they have scheduled to have the event at the post again this year.

“Our post is only as good as its members and they all pitch in, not only during major events but regularly and are enthusiastic about it,” Commander Hawkins explained.

The different entities also have taken the initiative to continue improving the post. For example, the Auxiliary refurbished two large lithographs languishing in the original, unused building as part of the Legion Centennial. The Sons took the initiative to find someone to remove and restore a 73 year old American Legion stained glass emblem to display in a case in the current building. The Riders took the initiative and expanded the bike parking pad to more than double its previous size accommodation that many more motorcycles.

KND Wayne Post 64 has also been responsible for contributing to local charitable organizations from schools to police organizations to youth sports programs. Additionally, the post regularly sponsors Boys and Girl State attendees and Indiana Cadet Youth Law Enforcement Academy cadets.

Annually the post and its entities sponsor 48 local, needy families by providing food staples and presents for their children during the holiday season.

“Again, all of our fundraising efforts for local and American Legion programs are due to our members and their fundraising efforts. All of our entities regularly raise funds and contribute to programs helping people locally and through National Legion programs like the Legacy Fund,” Hawkins explained. “I couldn’t be prouder of the team and the good we do because of them.”

Legacy Foundation Offers Strategy For the Future

The Indiana American Legion Legacy Foundation has moved quickly from vision to fulfillment of its mission “to conduct and perpetuate the programs of The American Legion serving Indiana’s veterans, their families and its youth.”

Established by the Department Executive Committee in 2018, the Foundation currently supports Hoosier Boys State, the High School Oratorical Contest, and the Law Enforcement Cadet program while aggressively pursuing new strategies for long term funding.

According to Billy Johnson, the Foundation’s business development manager, the Foundation’s continuing success in sponsoring Legion services and programs relies on a two-fold strategy: expanding the opportunities for contributions and engaging the public.

“For too long, Hoosier Legionnaires had few options for contributing financially to programs and activities that directly benefit

Indiana families and veterans. The Foundation now affords them that opportunity,” he said.

“Anyone contributing to the Foundation has two options: direct contributions to the Foundation itself, or to a specific program by contributing an amount restricted for that program,” he said.

Although current direct support is limited to a handful of programs, Johnson’s vision for the Foundation is “to fully fund all the programs currently supported by the Department of Indiana.

“For example, the Children’s’ Education and Welfare Fund and the Hoosier Boys State programs are activities for which contributions would be restricted.

If a donor or gift giver gives to one of those restricted areas, those dollars will be used exclusively to support them” he said.

Restricted donations enable the donor to be certain that the funds given for a specific purpose are in fact used for that purpose.

“We track restricted funds separately within the structure of our financial records in order to assure donors that their wishes are respected, while general contributions to the Foundation are available for all purposes for which the Foundation was established,” Johnson said.

Those purposes are set forth in the Foundation’s vision statement to “contribute to the welfare of the citizens of the State of Indiana by supporting, funding and administering activities and programs of The American Legion Department of Indiana based on the founding principles of Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation, Americanism, and Children and Youth.”

Contributions received to date are a combination of gifts from Legion posts, local businesses and individual members, totaling nearly a half-million dollars.

In order to mobilize local business leaders to be a part of the fundraising effort, “it was decided to add an advisory board to the current

Legacy Foundation committee members because of their influence around the state,” Johnson said.

“The role of the advisory board is to advice the Foundation board and to utilize their business connections in our fund-raising efforts, but we keep in mind that small donors are as important as the large donors. We have had Legionnaires give as little as $50.00 and as high as $10,000, and Legion posts across the state have done their part in supporting the Foundation,” he said, adding that one post has given over $20,000.

In its more than a century of service, The American Legion has consistently looked to the future to guide its decisions and develop the strategies for meeting its responsibilities. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the Department of Indiana.

Contributions to the Foundation can be sent directly to the Department of Indiana or on the Foundation’s website www.indianalegionlegacy.org.

Photos and story by

“Our post is only as good as its members and they all pitch in, not only during major events but regularly and are enthusiastic about it,” Commander Hawkins explained

Story by Hugh Dagley

Members of Kenneth N. Dowden Wayne Post 64 fill boxes of food for 48 local families in need.

Food and toys are being loaded so this family can have an enjoyable holiday season.

ALR Director Scott Smith loads a box full of food onto a truck

L eading H oosier L egionnaire L etters

Mark Gullion

DEPARTMENT COMMANDER

Greetings fellow Legion Family Members. This last year has been an unbelievable and unforgettable experience, one that only 101 fellow Indiana legionnaires have been able to experience. It has been a busy year but extremely rewarding.

In July it was an honor to throw the first pitch at the Legion Baseball finals, I attended the third graduation of the Indiana American Legion Cadet Law Enforcement Academy along with beginning my travels throughout the state. In August I visited several posts and districts. I attended the first Legacy Foundation Golf outing and then we went to Phoenix for the 102nd National Convention.

The convention was a little warm, but it was an outstanding event. Our department party was off the charts with members roping calves, and milking goats with our interim adjutant drinking the goat milk. And yes, I rode a horse at the rodeo. Back home in Indiana, I continued to visit posts and Districts.

My project this year was the 9/11 memorial in downtown Indianapolis. Additions to the memorial were made to include military who lost their lives on the dreadful day, 20 years ago.

A cornerstone from the pentagon was placed at the memorial along with a remembrance wall and flags. The ALR conducted a ride from around the state on 9/11 that ended at the memorial. During the dedication of the memorial expansion, Governor Holcomb spoke along with a surprise visit by Vice President Mike Pence. After the ride and events at the department, and downtown, Post 64 hosted a very wellattended after party. At the fall conference, a 1994 Harley-Davidson motorcycle was raffled. This bike was refurbished for us by the Indiana chapter of Operation Combat Bikesaver. So far, $50,000.00 has been donated with more to be donated at the Department convention.

Ida struck the state of Loui

siana. After returning from the National Convention, we began a fundraiser to assist Legionnaires in the Department of Louisiana. In a brief time, we raised over $10.000.00 with the help of our Legion family. Lowes Hardware sold us everything at cost and we were able to fill a 26’ U-Haul truck. Josh Marshall and I delivered the truck to Baton Rouge where the department had set up a distribution center. We also toured Houma, Louisiana where we saw firsthand the unbelievable devastation Ida had caused.

Late in October, we conducted our four-day northern district drive around and in January we conducted our five-day southern drive around. During this time, we visited posts and all eleven districts where we observed posts and districts working as a family for the betterment of the American Legion.

In January, our new Adjutant Chad Woodburn was throughout the state. An Indiana native, Chad comes to us from the Department of Illinois where he oversaw membership. Chad is married and has two children, and all are incredibly involved within the Legion Family. Welcome, Chad.

In February we conducted a membership outreach where over two thousand expired members were contacted. This served as a Buddy Check as well as a membership drive for these members to renew their membership. Many renewed on the phone, many went to their post to renew, and several mailed their dues.

March was the Legion’s Birthday month. During the month I was honored to travel across the state to attend birthday celebrations at many posts. It was an honor and privilege to be invited to talk about the American Legion and to hear what our wonderful Legion Family does for their community and for the veterans.

It has been a remarkably busy year so far but there is still a lot of work to do until my term ends in July. It is indeed an honor to serve as the Department Commander of this great organization. I look forward to seeing you in my travels -

ed trice

National Executive Commmittee Chairperson

Spring Conference was April 7th thru 10th and we had the opportunity to spend time with Jim Troiola, the leading candidate

Alex Magyar

Hello to all, and all Department officers and staff from Alex Magyar, Northern Vice Commander. We just finished with Spring Conference and we recog-

for National Commander 2022-2023. After Jim retired, he started a new career as a school bus driver. If he can handle a bus full of kids, I doubt he will have trouble handling 1.5 million Legionnaires.

Kenny Cooper, our Alternate NEC member and myself attended the Spring NEC meetings May 1st thru 5th. During the meeting, we considered 32 resolutions

nized some of our children and youth program winners during the general session.

It has been so great working with Commander Mark, Chairperson Laurie and Northern Vice Commanders Rob, Bruce, and Niles, and all of the 11 District Commanders, thanks much.

The third district is having a welcome for new members and their families on May 14 from 10:00 a.m.

of which 29 were passed. They can be reviewed on National’s website.

With July 6th just around the corner, we look forward to starting a new year with a new commander. I’m sure Jim Daube would like the job if he can get elected. I would also like to congratulate Commander Mark Gullion on his year as commander. Job well done.

to 2:00 p.m. It is to let them know what the Legion is all about and to thank them for their service to God and Country.

Before you know it close of books will be here and we are the only Department to have all the required annual forms filled and submitted online.

The close of books date is June 5th at Indiana Veterans Home.

Robert Burkhart

NORTHERN VICE COMMANDER

It’s been a fantastic year! I was told over and over that the Vice Commander position was the best kept secret and the best job in the department. I agree! The year started and Commander Gullion asked us to not only attend our District Meetings, but he tasked us with visiting at least one post in our assigned districts each month. Thank you, Mark, I have attended meetings in a driveway, in the canteen, and in traditional meetings. I have had the pleasure of meeting dozens and dozens of new Legionnaires. I have attended post meet-

ings in all five districts in the north. There are a lot of great things happening all over the northern part of the state. If you play disc golf Cedar Lake Post 261 has a Disc Golf course on their property, and if regular golf is your thing, check out Post 6 in Kokomo. Post 157, Churubusco is having a Bike Show in June, and the list goes on and on. If your post is doing something different or the same and you want others to know about it get the information to Department and they will post it online.

Jim Daube said at the 3rd District meeting that membership is the lifeblood of the organization, but the programs are the heart that is pumping that blood. Thank you, Jim, I have quoted you several times since then. Our youth

programs impact the youth that participates in them in ways that we will not see for years to come. Oratorical, Boys State, and Indiana Youth Cadet Law Enforcement Academy, just to name a few will help build better leaders for tomorrow. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the posts that I have visited for their Hoosier Hospitality. We have driven 10,766.5 miles as of the 1st of April. I have felt welcome everywhere we have traveled. I hope to see more and more new Legionnaires at conferences and conventions in the future. If you are not attending these please come check it out, you never know what you will bring back to your post that may make the difference. Again, thank you and God Bless America.

Bruce Curry SOUTHERN VICE COMMANDER

Greetings from the south. First, I would like to say in February I took a trip with the Legion Family to Springfield, Illinois, to see the Tomb of Abraham Lincoln. I enjoyed myself very much and would encourage everyone to make this trip with your family as I found it to be very educational. We had an outstanding Spring Conference; it was good to have all our Legion Family in attendance. It was an immense pleasure to have our winners from the Department Flag Education Ruby and Tucker on stage reading their entree letters to us. Also, congratulations to our Department Oratorical winner Eden Wood, and

Department Junior shooting sport Logan Hall and the Precision winner Alysa Yancy and all the other winners we had on stage. It is always a pleasure to see our Children and Youth programs at work.

It is also worth mentioning one of the NationWide winners to receive a $10,000.00 Samsung American Legion Scholarship, went to Sadie Herring, a senior at West Vigo School in Terre Haute. Congratulations Sadie.

As a result of action taken by the Department Children’s Education and Welfare Fund (CEWF) Committee, the maximum grant amount allowed by CEWF program has been increased to $750. The (IVETS is still at $500)

Our membership is still falling short of where we should be. The Districts Membership Teams need to visit their posts and make an effort in getting expired

members to renew and work with your posts on recruiting new members. As an organization, we must do better at retaining our membership. Membership is our lifeblood. Please keep doing our Buddy Checks we all know how important this can be.

As my year as Southern Vice Commander is ending, I would like to thank the Department Staff for their outstanding support over the past year, whenever I had a question or needed assistance I received it in a very timely manner, thanks for all you do.

I would also like to thank the Membership of the 6th, 7th, 8th Districts for the hospitality and support over this past year, it has been an honor and pleasure to have severed as your Southern Vice Commander.

Hope to see you all at the Convention July 7-10, 2022

The year is quickly passing and the winter months were no exception. ALA Mission Training was held on February 19th in Indianapolis and I am proud to say Indiana was well represented. The majority of the attendees were from the Department of Indiana! Thought provoking presentations by ALA National staff, and an excellent exchange of ideas by all mem-

bers made it a successful training session. We all left motivated to continue the mission of supporting our veterans, military and their families.

On March 5th the ALA Juniors met at Post 492 and had a successful meeting followed by decorating and filling care-giver bags. We then traveled up the road to Indiana Veterans Home and had bingo for the residents. The residents loved seeing the junior members and enjoyed the treats and bingo gifts.

The state oratorical competition was held in Indianapolis on March 13th and I was honored to be in at-

tendance. The contestants were amazing the way they spoke on the U.S. Constitution. After the oratorical competition we traveled to St. Leon, Post 464 for an American Legion Birthday dinner, followed by Bloomington, Post 18 birthday dinner the next day. It was so good to see so many members all weekend celebrating our organization.

Spring Joint Conference was held the weekend of April 8th through April 10th. The ALA afternoon meeting had a National Security presentation regarding blood donations and a leadership presentation with excellent information

on how to lead a successful unit. We also had an ALA Initiation Ceremony for new members which was well received. The afternoon ended with filling 36 backpacks to be distributed to children of deployed military.

District visitations ramped up in March and April with visits to the 9th, 7th, 6th, 10th and 3rd Districts respectively. Everyone had wonderful meetings, delicious food and extended outstanding hospitality to the ALA Department officers and chairs. It’s so much fun to travel all over the state and see what our members are achieving.

I am proud to report the ALA is presently over 93% of our goal for membership, but our work is not done. It is never too late to check your membership card and see if it says 2022. If not, it’s time to pay your dues! This reminder is for the entire American Legion Family. Your membership matters in supporting our veterans, military, and their families. Thank you for your continued support and until we meet again, “Remember Our Service to Veterans Everyday”.

NORTHERN VICE COMMANDER

Rose Ann Dzieglowicz ALA PRESIDENT

L eading H oosier L egionnaire L etters

of various faiths represent those who serve by percentage in our population.

NORRIS KEIRN DEPARTMENT CHAPLAIN

This year in 2022 we have a special merger of events of the three Abrahamic faiths as Ramadan (daylight fasting for Muslims), Passover (Pesach) and Lent/ Easter for Christians are occurring at the same time. Also, as more Sikhs enter our Armed Forces, Vaisakhi is celebrated on April 14th. Faith is very important to us. Religious history is filled with volumes of those who have given their lives for their beliefs.

Armed Forces chaplains

Military grave markers in federal and civilian cemeteries show the diversity of faith our citizens hold. Our country recognizes both the importance and assortment of faith. Atheists also have an approved symbol. So while there is a “separation of church and state” doctrinally, the faith of those who serve continues to be strong.

In the American Legion, we begin our motto with our service for “God and Country”. We recognize the motivation and importance of faith among our members. We, however, do not dictate or prescribe what that conviction is or how one should practice it. We

American Legion Boys State convenes in Springfield, Illinois

recognize, encourage, and honor the belief our members hold dear and its motivation to make our country the best it can be.

Spring is a natural time of renewal especially in the four-season climates, as we burst forth in new life after the winter kill. Spring offers a great visual expression of renewed life around us everywhere. It is no mistake that for most faiths, this becomes a time of restoration and rekindling of the relationship with God for so many. Even those who are not “practicing” their faith in a formal way, find that family, faith traditions, and gatherings still take place adding meaning and quality to their life.

This becomes a season of hope for us and it greatly

held in Colorado Springs, Colorado

enhances our expressions of faith. It is a time to embrace, celebrate, and uplift the goodness of God in our lives. While we don’t know what tomorrow holds, we know that our God holds tomorrow. And just as Spring follows Winter, we can trust that once again our God will come through for us! We certainly need hope after the long battle with Covid-19. We unquestionably need some cheer and expressions of optimism in the inflationary times in which we find ourselves, not knowing where it will end. Half a world away, we need encouragement as we observe the battle for the sovereignty of Ukraine.

May God speak to your heart this season and bring you hope, optimism, and en-

couragement. May you find a faith renewal in the facing of your personal struggles and concerns. May we as the American Legion family continue with restored zeal in our commitment to the community, state, and nation to make the world in which we live a better place. And, may we continue to seek God’s guidance and empowerment in all we do.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6 NIVA

Steve DeFeo DEPARTMENT HISTORIAN

My last column went into the four pillars the American Legion Operates on. They represent our core programs and our focus. Let’s see how those pillars translate into action.

This time of year has been a significant one in the annals of American Legion history. Here is a partial list of significant dates:

June 15, 1923 - The Flag Code was drafted and eventually passed by Congress.

June 23, 1935 – First

June 22, 1944 – President Franklin Roosevelt signs the American Legion originated GI Bill into law

May 29, 1946 – The American Legion and Auxiliary provides a $50,000 grant to a small, struggling American Heart Association to help study rheumatic heart disease.

May 4, 1950 – The American voted to contribute funds to mental health if the three major mental health organizations consolidated. The result was the creation of the National Association for Mental Health.

June 15, 1991 – The first Junior Shooting Sports Air Rifle Championships were

enjoy personal contact so you can show them you really care about them. We got many renewals during this event so please contact your members to get them to renew. WE NEED YOU!

Legionnaires at every level this will be my last column as your membership chair, and it has been a wonderful and humbling experience. I thank Commander Mark Gullion for this great opportunity. We still have several months to go and we need to push getting renewals and new members because #MEMBERSHIP MATTERS. Let’s really push these last few months to get our 100%. We had a great membership telethon contacting our expired members in February. Our members really

Thank you for all you do for your post, district, and The Department of Indiana.

You are what makes The American Legion successful and I hope I can rely on all of you to get one new member or a renewal of an expired member today so we can have our membership where it belongs.

Operation Welcome is an event that every district has planned for all new members and transfers to posts in the districts. The reasoning behind this project is to let our new members/transfers know what the American Legion is all about so

June 11, 1997

The American Legion National Emergency Fund exceeds $1 million in grants to flood victim in Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, Minnesota and North Dakota May 7, 2005 – The American Legion successfully lobbied to prevent VA prescription co-payment increases

An impressive list. What do these events from our past have in common? They show the power of the core programs of the American Legion: Veteran Affairs and Rehabilitation, National Security, Americanism, and Children and Youth. They show the power of our organization to create

we can get more participation in our programs and in our posts. These new/ transferred members could be potential officers at the post and district level or a committee chair but we need to educate them about all the things The American Legion does for all veterans, their families, the community, and the post.

It would be great if every post did this every year to ensure our new and transferred members feel welcomed. It can be done as a group where all the posts in one area could schedule the event and do it at one post, possibly by county. Just a suggestion to get more members involved. These events should include your current members as well to share their experiences and knowledge.

Happy Memorial Day to all, I’m sure it will already have passed by the time this publication reaches you. I’m sure most of the posts did a Memorial Day service to honor all our veterans who have passed and got their members and the community involved. This is what makes The American Legion great, our outreach to the community and all veterans.

We have a great opportunity to increase our membership with the race car trailer events in May. We will be signing up new members at each event at the trailer with the iPads provided. There will also

change and impact not only veterans and their families but our entire country. The Flag Code instills ways we can honor our flag to revere not only our country but those who fought to defend and serve it. The Boys and Girls State programs and the Junior shooting sports competitions bring to the youth of our country opportunities to learn, improve themselves and earn scholarships. In the areas of health, the American Legion was instrumental in getting research started for rheumatic heart disease. The nation’s mental health programs were given a boost through the Legion’s contributions and insight to consolidate three groups into one.

posts that are participating. National will also be present at the IMS events.

JUST ASK your members to participate and let them get involved. Personal contact with our members is imperative in keeping them as members of the greatest veteran’s organization in the world. Communication is the key to success.

My time as your membership chair has been very rewarding, attending many of your district/post meetings and your successful events. It is very impressive to see what each post does for our veterans/members and their communities. You should be proud of what you accomplish every year. You can showcase your post by doing a scrapbook and sending it in to the Department by Jun 1st. Don’t forget to enter the information on your Consolidated Post Report (CPR) and turn it in before close of books.

Close of Books is scheduled for Jun 5th at the Indiana Veterans Home (IVH) in Lafayette. We encourage ALL members to attend and enjoy the day with the residents of the IVH. Each district will have an area at the IVH with food and fun, come relax and have a great time with our Legion Family.

Your 2023 membership card packets will be issued to your District Commander at COB. They will pick up all the posts as long as their officer certification

Arguably, the most significant legislation for veterans, the GI Bill, originated with the American Legion. It has affected every veteran for 78 years. Through natural disaster assistance, the Legion’s National Emergency Fund has helped those in need when they needed it. Such accomplishments were only possible through the efforts of not just the Legion’s leaders but more importantly, through the support and efforts of all Legion family members. Those same programs help drive membership. In serving others with our programs, we are also helping ourselves by attracting new members because of our programs.

will be issued if the paperwork is not at the department by Jun 5th, COB. Go to www.indianalegion.org, click on the Members tab and there is more information located there. The Department staff will be there to supervise the passing out of card packets to the district commanders.

I would be remiss if I didn’t thank the Department Staff for all their hard work and patience during my tenure as your Membership Chair.

In closing, I would like to encourage you to engage with all your members, update your rosters and let all members know how much we appreciate their membership in the greatest veteran’s organization in the world and we can only keep our organization going with all of the blue cap legionnaires. We need our younger members to step up and become involved for our veterans and their families, communities, and of course the post. There is so much opportunity to grow with the American Legion to serve all our veterans and their families. Our seasoned members can mentor our new/younger members to be all they can be with the American Legion. Once again THANK YOU ALL for your support this year, I look forward to working with you in the future. I will continue to work with you if you need assistance. Stay safe and God Bless you and

Laurie Bowman MEMBERSHIP CHAIRPERSON

L eading H oosier L egionnaire L etters

John Hickey Service Department

Presumption of Service

Connection: VA awards service-connected disability compensation in many ways. Some veterans believe entitlement to serviceconnected compensation benefits are limited to veterans injured in combat or who have a medical condition related to combat exposure. Others assume VA will deny service connection for benefits purposes unless their service medical records show direct service connection by confirming a diagnosis of the medical condition occurring during service. These assumptions cause many veterans to lose thousands of dollars in compensation benefits over their lifetime. As noted, VA grants service connection in many ways. VA compensation benefits are not limited to only the theory of direct service connection.

Presumption of service connection is another theory for service connection. This theory allows VA to presume certain disabilities were caused by military service due to the unique cir-

cumstances of the veteran’s military service even without notation of the medical conditions noted within the veteran’s military medical treatment records.

For instance, VA may presume service connection for many medical conditions having their onset to a degree of 10% or more disabling within one year of their active-duty service discharge. 38 CFR 3.309 provides a long list of the specific medical conditions VA considers chronic that would qualify for this oneyear presumption. A few examples include arthritis, diabetes, cardiovascular-renal disease, organic disease of the nervous system, and psychoses.

Multiple Sclerosis can be presumptively serviceconnected if it develops to a degree of 10% or more within 7 years after activeduty service discharge.

Presumption of service connection is also possible for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) for almost any veteran who served at least 90 days of active-duty service no matter when the ALS develops after service.

VA can also presume service connection for veterans who served in tropical areas of the world and develop diseases unique to that location if the disease

develops within certain periods of time after the veteran’s return from the tropical location. A few examples of these diseases are cholera, filariasis, and malaria, but there are many more.

Former prisoners of war are also subject to many diseases that VA can grant a presumption of service connection if developed to a degree of 10% or more disabling any time after service discharge. A few examples of these medical conditions include mental health conditions, heart disease or hypertensive vascular disease, residuals of a stroke, and osteoporosis, but there are more.

VA will also grant presumption of service connection for veterans who served in Vietnam, or on vessels operating in waters not more than 12 nautical miles from Vietnam or Cambodia between January 9, 1962 and May 7, 1975 due to presumed Agent Orange exposure. Examples of those medical conditions include, diabetes type 2, ischemic heart disease including but not limited to coronary artery disease, and respiratory cancers. There are, however, many others, including but not limited to, Parkinson’s disease, Parkinsonism, bladder cancer, and hypothyroidism recent-

ly placed on the Agent Orange presumptive list.

Certain Air Force reserve personnel who trained and worked on C-123 aircraft that had previously sprayed herbicides including Agent Orange in Vietnam can also be presumed exposed to Agent Orange for service connection purposes even if their duties did not include service in Vietnam or during the Vietnam war.

Veterans exposed to ionizing radiation can also be presumed service connected for several medical conditions including but not limited to most forms of leukemia, multiple myeloma, and lymphomas other than Hodgkin’s disease.

Veterans who served in the Southwest Asia Theater of Operations (Gulf War Veterans) may be presumed service connected for the following conditions if developed to a degree of 10% or more disabling any time after service discharge: Medical unexplained chronic multi-symptom illnesses existing for at least 6 months, such as, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, or irritable bowel syndrome, or undiagnosed symptoms.

Veterans who served at Camp Lejeune between August 1, 1953 and December 31, 1987 are presumed

exposed to contaminated water allowing presumptive service connection for medical conditions associated with the water contamination. A few examples of those medical conditions include kidney cancer, Parkinson’s disease, and Bladder cancer, but there are more. This presumption is applied no matter how long after service the disease develops.

Most recently VA has added asthma, sinusitis, and rhinitis to the presumptive disability list for veterans who served in the Southwest Asia theater of operations since August 2, 1990 or Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Syria, or Djibouti beginning on September 19, 2001 if these conditions had manifested within 10 years of the veteran’s qualifying period of active duty in those areas.

If you believe you meet one of the requirements as noted above for VA granting presumption of service connection or have a medical condition you believe is in some way associated with your military service, please contact your local county veterans service officer or The American Legion Department Service Office for further information and claims filing assistance.

FROM THE DISTRICT COMMANDERS

wanted to thank everyone who was able to attend. I also want to thank the committees for the information given at Spring Conference.

Kevin Urbanczyk

1ST DISTRICT COMMANDER

Hello all. I’d like to say happy spring from the 1st District, but it doesn’t feel like spring yet. I have read that the next few days will be getting warmer. I hope everyone had a good Easter with their families.

The 2022 Spring Conference was a lot of fun and highly informative. I

Mitch Mullins

2nd DISTRICT COMMANDER

Greetings from the Mighty Second District. As I am writing this column, my thoughts are about the Spring Conference and my trip down from home. I was amazed at how green the landscape became as I headed out of the late season snow at my home and passed the soon to be planted farm fields. I began to think about all the tasks that still need to be accomplished before the Close of Books on the 5th of June.

I would like to thank the Department staff for all their hard work this year. As we came out of the pandemic this year these individuals not only supported all of us, but were learning their jobs, due to the changes in the computer programs.

For most of them also they were new to the Department Staff. The Staff now consists of Chad Woodburn Adjutant, Josh Marshall Executive Director, Debbie Gibbs Executive assistant, Butch Miller Program Director, Wendy McGinness Program

We have a few events coming up that I’m looking forward to. One is the welcome to new members of the American Legion happening at Post 100. Then, there’s the district auxiliary luncheon coming up. In May, we’ll also have Memorial Day events at Calumet Park Cemetery.

My time as district commander has been great; I have also been at meetings

Coordinator, Mark Bernhardt Finance, Audrey Copeland Membership, Aaron Bacon SAL Membership, Billy Johnson Business Development, Thad Thompson Logistics, Candy Long Receptionist. The two most important are the membership. Audrey and Aaron are both working in tandem on the Legion and SAL membership. If you have a question about membership, they ask that you send it to both. That way whichever one is available first can respond to your question.

Now on to the elephant in the room. MEMBERSHIP. We all know that membership is our lifeblood. Yet we seem to be lax on our ability to attract and maintain new members. How many of us see a fellow veteran in line at the store, or gas station? Do you take the time to say hello and acknowledge their service? Each time we do it is an opportunity to grow the Legion Family. If we don’t, how long will it be before we cease to exist as the largest Veteran’s Organization?

As of this article the Department of Indiana has gained 2,385 new members into the organization. Is this enough, short answer is NO we need 5 times that number. Commander Mark Gullion and the member-

at posts and the district Sons of the American Legion.

I want to thank Commander Mark Gullion, northern vice-commander Alex Magyar and Robert Burkhart, membership chair Laurie Bowman, and Sergeant-At-Arms Dan Rice. It was a pleasure seeing you and your officers at so many meetings this year.

I’d also like to thank my officers executive vice-commander Pete Van Woerden, membership chair Dan Mills, vice-commanders Karl Delooff, Bill Palmer, Tommy Penson, and Vance

ship team have come up with a plan. Each of the 11 Districts will conduct one or more new member orientations in their districts. The goal of these meetings is to present to these new members the Four Pillars on which we were founded. The expanse of programs we have for youth and the opportunities to earn money for higher education.

In the 2nd District, we will accomplish this by conducting three of these meetings.

First meeting is at Post 81 Monticello, in, second meeting at Post 253 North Webster, In, 3rd at Post 94 Valparaiso, IN.

Each of these gatherings will be staffed by facilitators that are knowledgeable in the Legion Programs, and history. There, will be service officers to answer questions about VA claims. If needed there will be limited childcare so both parents can listen and learn about the organization that they just joined. We are planning to have a light lunch and refreshments at these events also. Now I know what you’re thinking: “What does this mean to me, a regular member of second district?” Go back up about 15 lines and reread the part about speaking to the fellow veter-

Walczak, adjutant Mike Wooden, finance officer Dave Hicks, service officer Kevin Dvorak, Chaplain Russ Gibbson, sergeantat-arms Shannan Kuesis, judge advocate Ralph Perez, and public relations Pat O’Donnell because without them the district would not run as smoothly as it did this year.

Lastly, I’m giving a shout-out to my wife, Shawna Urbanczyk, Angie Tretter, Liz Ducan, and everyone else that helped and made food for the hospitality room. Thanks to their

an in line. This is the result of that conversation. In the second district we gained 225 new members as of the 9th of April, simply because someone said thanks for your service, and engaged in a conversation.

The district is also working with Post 413 Camden to do a revitalization in June of this year. This will consist of a media blitz relevant to all veterans within a speci

help, we were able to show everyone some great 1st District hospitality.

As a final note, here’s my last reminder as district commander that the close of books is coming up on June 5th at Indiana Veterans Home, and a lot of the posts in the first district are very close to getting 100%, so let’s keep going, Brown Bombers, and let’s meet our goal. God Bless You, and God Bless the American Legion.

vice-commanders will also have a reconciliation form to fill out when they pick up your forms. This will eliminate the need to carry unused cards to the close of books. Until next time, may God bless and guide our Nation, The American Legion Family and keep us all in his heart.

Please remember 1-800273-8255 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. If you know a vet in trouble, please

DAVE MILLER 4TH DISTRICT COMMANDER

This, being my final opportunity as the 4th District Commander to write to you leads me to be a tad introspective.

After all, this year has given me the chance to serve the Fabulous 4th and the Department of Indiana in ways I had never imagined. One of the most amazing of which was my being a facilitator for Indiana’s first Legion College. There were some “more

seasoned” members in the class, but the vast majority were newer members. These young men and women are the tip of the spear for future leadership.

The students represent the very best in the ideals of the 4 pillars of the American Legion. They have bought in to the mission and were ready to take the message home. They spoke passionately about “inclusion” and removing barriers. Barriers that some still don’t recognize. But these issues are important to them. Equally as important was to be validated and heard. This new generation of warriors has a different viewpoint based on their unique experiences.

“Trust I seek and I find in

Linn Hutchinson

6TH DISTRICT COMMANDER

Hello Legion Family, I want to thank you all for the continued support you show through your hospitality and wiliness to help.

I’m inviting you to attend your local post and district meetings as we need a quorum to conduct post or district meetings. The meetings usually do not last much more than an hour and will help you stay informed on activities and programs taking place.

Congratulation to all posts in the 6th district that met or exceeded the 100% membership goal for 2022. I know it takes a lot of hard work and time to make this happen. The department and district officers can help but most is done on the ground by the blue caps.

When I was writing this article, the district was doing pretty good on our membership numbers. We were close to our goal and were back and forth between first and third place. We still have a few weeks left to meet our goal or even make 103%. I know wherever we end up for the year we gave it our best effort. Thank you.

The weekend of February 12th was a first for me

served as your 8th District Commander.

you, Every day for us something new. Open mind for a different view, And nothing else matters”

This year also taught me and how to only be a better Legionnaire, but a better listener. I learned that it was just as important to be a humble listener as it was to be a powerful leader. When we spend more time listening to the viewpoints and opinions of others, we learn what they need from the American Legion. As an organization we have always been open about gender race and religion. And in many ways The American Legion was at the forefront of breaking down social barriers. Today I think it’s

and a very humbling experience going to visit Lincoln’s Tomb in Illinois. The Department of Illinois did an outstanding job hosting the weekend, making it enjoyable for all that attended.

The American Legion, Department of Indiana revitalization was held from February 18th thru the 20. We picked up several renewals, while others contacted said they would be renewing at a later date. Overall, we had a good weekend. Since the revitalization, several other members on the list were contacted and renewed.

Close of Books is Sunday, June 5th, make sure your post data sheets get completed along with your

just as important to break down the barriers that separate our younger veterans from leadership opportunities. These young and eager veterans won’t be told to wait 20 years for a chance to create the American Legion of tomorrow. And we as a family don’t have 20 years to wait for them to do so.

“You gotta make a change. You see the old way wasn’t working, so it’s on us to do what we gotta do to survive.”

In closing, I want to openly thank the countless men and women who have helped guide me through my American Legion career. Thank you to Jone and Nick for always being

unused card information. Data packets were sent out in March from Department Headquarters, which contain the five different forms that need to be completed. No data forms or unused card reports mean you will not be able to pick up your 2023 membership card at the closing of the books. Your vice-commander or I will be contacting you about these reports and unused card forms.

Don’t forget to do your buddy checks and attend your post and district meeting, it would be great to see you at the conferences or the convention in July.

Thanks again for all that helped in the hospitality room.

there and as importantly for being open and honest with Teresa and I. Thank you to my Buddy Check Babes and Billy and Sharon for never saying no when I needed them. Thank you to my children Mike, Shelle, Abby and Adam who have scheduled and rescheduled family events around my Legion calendar. But most of all thank you to my beautiful wife Teresa who supports my every crazy dream, and loves me in spite of myself.

“I never opened myself this way. Life is ours, we live it our way. All these words, I don’t just say. And nothing else matters!”

For God and Country

Please get behind incoming commander Judy Pearson and assist her agenda and think of new ways to improve the American Legion. Judy was the executive vice-commander and has served on several committees. Her membership is at Post 145 in Avon, Indiana.

Thanks, sixth District members for the opportunity to serve as your commander. To all officers, chairpersons and past district commanders, I appreciated the help, support, and guidance, I could not have done it without you.

May God Bless you and yours and the American Legion.

Annual Forms: Post or

Kevin Brinksneader

8TH DISTRICT COMMANDER

Greetings from the Great 8th

This has been an interesting and enjoyable year. It’s hard to believe that this year is winding down.

I am honored to have

It has been a pleasure to work under Department Commander Mark Gullion and with his staff.

I’ve had so many great experiences, especially making new acquaintances.

I could not have done it without the great help and leadership throughout the District. I want to thank the officers, Past 8th District Commanders, Auxiliary, Sons of the American

Tina Wallace

9th District Commander

Greetings fellow Hoosier Legionnaires!

The Spring Conference was full of committee meetings and seeing everyone from the whole state. The posts in the ninth District are working hard to finish out the year on a high note. Keep up the good work!

ences. Thank you to everyone in the 9th District for your support and guidance. Thank you to department commander Gullion and department membership Chair Bowman for everything you have done for the Department this year and the memories (bloomers on a calf). I look forward to supporting the Department and the ninth District to the best of my abilities in the years to come. I want to wish incoming district commander Lonny Barnett the best of luck and have a

Legion, American Legion Riders, and the posts that hosted the district meetings.

At the Spring Conference, we had the drawing for the wooden waving flag. The winner was Lori Jochem of Ferdinand, Ind.

As we move toward the finish line we need to stay in top with our Membership. We need to keep working hard by retaining members and signing up new members. If every member would sign up one

Dave Roach

10th District Commander

As I look back on my year as 10th District Commander there are many aspects that come to mind. First and foremost, I was pleased that all the vicecommanders from the previous commander chose to remain and help guide me. The Covid pandemic was detrimental to a couple of our meetings as outbreaks occurred throughout the State. Canceling a meeting was a very hard decision to make, but the health and safety of the membership

new member, we can double our membership. Every member is important to this great organization.

The 8th District will be hosting “Operation Welcome” for new members and transfers on Saturday, April 30, 2022, at Tell City Post 213.

Congratulations to all the posts that made their 100%.

Close of books will be held at IVH on Sunday, June 5.

Don’t forget about the

took priority.

This coming Saturday, April 23, our contestant in the oratorical contest from the 10th District will compete in the American Legion National Oratorical Contest. All of us would like to wish Eden Wood from Muncie the best of luck in her competition.

Unfortunately, the membership renewals have not been what I expected in our district. A few posts went to non-smoking and a lot of the members who smoke resented that. That was totally out of our control and was the direct result of government officials.

I have enjoyed my year as District Commander. The friendships I have made I hope will continue to grow.

are in the final stretch for our membership in this Legion year. Continue your post ef forts to reach 100% of goal

Americanism Commission

events will be held in Fort Wayne on March 4, 5, 11, 12- 2023

There were no resolutions.

Peter Amodei Vice chairperson

The Americanism Commission met at the Department of Indiana spring conference located at Marriott East Hotel Indianapolis, Indiana on April 9, 2022. The meeting convened at 16:00 hours in Salon C and was opened by the committee’s vice-chairperson Pete Amodei. There were no meeting minutes from the previous commission meeting.

All Americanism Committees met at the Marriot East Hotel, in Indianapolis as scheduled and provided reports as follows: Bowling

The meeting was held on April 9th in Salon 4 and 5 at 1300 hrs. David Hurtt committee chairperson opened the meeting in proper form. There were nine members present and six members absent. Two guests were in attendance. A listing of the 5 Districts not represented was not provided. A motion was made to produce flyers for distribution, both hard copy and electronic format for advertising future events. These would be distributed to Posts, Districts, and Bowling centers. The motion passed.

With the program being revised to include Auxiliary members, a motion was made to extend the bowling tournament awards to include Parents/Child, Siblings, Husband/Wife. This was in addition to Fathers/ Sons and Brothers. The motion passed.

Upcoming bowling

There were no requests for funds.

Future meeting reduced to 30 minute time.

The meeting closed in proper form at 1400hrs. National Security and Foreign Affairs

The meeting was held on April 9th in Salon 6 and 8 at 12:00 hours. Committee Chairperson David Miller opened the meeting in due form. There were nine members present, two absent and two guests. District 8 and 9 were not represented.

On Saturday, June 11, 2022 at 1000hrs. Committee members David Miller, Mike Harrison, Mile Wooden, and Craig Harvey will meet at Department Headquarters for the Judging of the Military Person of the Year award.

There was a discussion of the USO program to provide backpacks for children of military posts. Chairperson David Miller introduced Lisa Strebig, Noble County coroner. She made a presentation about suicide prevention. Specifically on veteran suicide signs that includes survivor’s remorse, social isolation, and being a burden. Also spoke about the ripple effects that a veteran’s suicide has on the community

There will be no meeting at the convention in July.

There were no resolutions.

There were no requests for funds.

Future meetings will require a 1-hour time slot unless otherwise noted.

The meeting closed in proper form at 1800hrs. Sons of the American Legion Advisory Committee

The meeting was held on April 9th in Veterans Hall 2 at 1530hrs. The meeting was opened in proper form by Chairperson Larry Horvath. There were two members absent. Districts 3, 4, and 8th were not represented. The committee submitted 7resoutions for Detachment Officers for the 22-23 membership years.

Seven resolutions were submitted. There was no request for funds. 30-minutes requested for Fall Conference.

The meeting was closed in proper form at 1600 hrs. POW/MIA Committee

The meeting was held on April 9 at 1500 hrs., Salon C. The meeting was open in proper form by Chairperson Larry Macy. All Districts were represented, and there were two guests. This is the first time the committee met in 2 ½ years due to pandemic restrictions.

There were no requests for funds.

There were no resolutions.

30 minutes are required for Mid-winter conference.

Next meeting to be scheduled for January 2023 Mid-Winter conference.

The meeting closed in proper form at 1530hrs Junior ROTC committee

The Junior ROTC committee met on April 9th in salon A at 1700 hrs. The meeting was opened in proper form by Committee chairperson Greg Peete. All Districts were represented. A motion was made

Children & Youth Commission

RICK HUDSON

Commission Chairman

Children & Youth Commission Spring Conference

2022

ALFS – Salon E

Meeting was opened in proper form by chairman: Wayne Zeman

ALFS screening and selection: 10 scholarship winners were selected from 40 applications received. Four applications rejected due to not being complete. 1 winner is from a trade school.

Americanism and Government – Salon B

Meeting was opened in proper form by chairman: Rees Morgan

All districts were represented with the exception of District 4.

During the general session Department Commander Gullion and Chairman

Morgan presented awards to the ten competition winners. Transition to online testing is nearly complete. There were about 4000 participation for 2021-2022 with very low paper text utilized.

Focus will be to improve our process and marketing through documentation and use of social media List was distributed to contact passed award winners to distribute accrued scholarships.

Boy Scouts – Salon E Districts Represented: District 8 & 6 No motions, no funds requested, Two Eagle Scouts of the year awards, one point difference in judging.

Application qualifications possibly need changes for the addition of female scouts, for the requirement of Eagle Scout of the year. Resolution needed.

Fundraiser for pin to subsidize scholarships, design change discussed.

Honoring square knot

award winners with certificate.

Increase Eagle Scout numbers for applied.

Discussion of changing requirements of Eagle Scout of the year requirements.

Covid prevented meetings of scout groups.

Boys State Enrollment –Salons 1-3

Meeting was opened in proper form by chairman: Chuck Mason.

Roll call – all members of committee were present. With 12 guests in attendance.

Chairman Mason explained to the new members and guests the handout information and application process.

Chairman called on each District Chairman to report on what they were doing to get more delegates.

No further business, motion to adjourn was made and 2nd, motion called.

Meeting adjourned.

Children & Youth

Meeting was opened in proper form by chairman:

to adopt in spirit/form the State of Florida application for JROTC Cadet of the year award. The application format shall be modified to reflect the appropriate changes for the Department of Indiana. The motion was moved by Herb Hoffman and 2nd by Richie King Jr. The motion passed. There were no resolutions.

There were no requests for funds.

Future meeting requires a 30-minute time slot.

The meeting was closed in proper form at 1730 hrs.

Baseball Executive Committee

The baseball executive committee met on April 9th in Salon C at 1100 hrs. The meeting was opened in proper form by committee chairperson Owen Wells. There were six members present and one member (John Hayes) absent. A motion was made to accept the minutes from the previous conference. The motion was moved by Owen wells and 2nd by Joe Bumbleberg. Motion passed. A motion was also made to hold a meeting in May and carried.

There were no resolutions.

There was no request for funds.

The committee cannot reduce their meeting time to a half hour for future conferences.

The meeting was close in proper form at 1200hrs.

Baseball Committee

The baseball committee met on April 9th at 1200hrs in Salon C. The meeting was opened in due form by committee chairperson Owen Wells. Thirteen members were present and

Darrell Bowman. New Business: a. EOY Grading: Committee will meet on 5/21 @ 10am at Dept HQs to grade EOY packets. Districts without EOY applicants have six weeks to find one.

Discussed if you have teachers promoting AL programs. Go to school board meetings & promote AL C&Y programs. Perhaps only invite Dept winners for award presentation or consider doing away with EOY program.

Create Poster of C&Y programs. District Commanders should get post committee appointments. Add C&Y overview to Dist. Officers Training.

Go to National Website & look at C&Y Sub Committees.

Herbert Petit Jr. sent an email on 4/7.

What is needed for application on Dept website.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

two were absent with 15 guests.

The 11th district was not represented. A motion was made to accept the minutes of the previous conference by Owen Wells and 2nd by Don Andrews. The motion passed.

The committee will hold a meeting the first week of May.

There were no resolutions.

There were no requests for funds.

The committee cannot reduce the time to 30 minutes for future conferences.

The meeting was close is proper form at 1300hrs.

Golf Committee

The golf committee meeting was held on April 9th in Salon C at 1300hrs. The meeting was opened in due form by chairperson Gary Stiles. The 8th district was not represented. There were no minutes from the fall conference meeting. Information will be sent to committee chairpersons for the June 25 and 26, 2022 Department golf tournament. The committee has received one bid for the 2023 Golf tournament. Bids will be accepted until fall conference at which time they will be reviewed.

SAL will hold a tournament in Bloomington on June 4th. Application deadline is May31st. To be eligible at least one SAl member is required on a team. Cost $240 per team, $50 sponsor. There were no resolutions.

There were no requests for funds.

The meeting was close in proper from at 1400hrs.

No other business. Meeting adjourned. CEWF/IVETS – Salon B Meeting was opened in proper form by chairman: Tim Conners.

All districts present with the exception of District 4. Old Business: Purchase Flags for garden at IVH, previously approved.

Flag Education – Salon D Meeting was opened in proper form by chairman: Thomas Fredericks.

All Districts were represented .

Talked about Flag education procedures of presenting the program. Established a grading process. Will vote at the next meeting on all procedures. Oratorical – Salon A Meeting was opened in proper form by chairman: James Grauvogl. Report from district on previous year.

On April 23, I had the privilege and honor of being one of several judges for the American Legion Oratorical Contest. Can I just say, Wow! The poise and professionalism of the young men and women competing was beyond impressive. The contestants had to first deliver a memorized 10-minute speech and then they were presented with a topic that they had to present for no more than four minutes.

The knowledge of the young men and women presenting was impressive. I did not hear a crack or waiver from nerves in any speech given. The judging was very difficult, to say the least. The contestants were competing for scholarships and the competition was fierce. Each parent of the youth competing that day should be proud of their kids, whether they won a scholarship or not. I was pleased to see the direction of today’s youth which gives me hope for these young men and women. A resounding round of applause for these fine contestants.

Debbie Allen of Indianapolis

Internal Affairs Commission

BOB OETH

Commission Chairman

The American Legion Department of Indiana Internal Affairs Commission Report for Spring Conference

The Internal Affairs Commission met on April 9, 2022 at the Marriott East Hotel in Indianapolis, In. The following reports were given.

American Legion Riders:

Chairman Ronnie Patterson opened the meeting in Salon 1-3 at 1400 hrs. Role call found 8 members present,Districts 1,4,10 absent and 4 guests.

Department Director of the ALR Jeff Everman announced that the ALR has their budget ready to be sent to the Finance Committee and has created an officers book ready to print.

The Rider of the Year nomination from the 6th and 9th Districts were received and a winner chosen. The winner will be announced at the Department convention in July. All the district chairman stated that they are planning their rides and summer activities. There were no motions dealing with Department funds and the committee will meet at the Department convention. No further business came before the meeting and the meeting was closed by chair Patterson at 1435 hrs.

Community Involvement:

Chairman Wooden held this meeting in Salon B at 1400 hrs. There were 14 present, 2 absent and 1 guest. There were no motions before the body. Each district chairman gave their reports of what they have been doing in their communities from buying burial plots, buying equipment for fire departments, doing food drives for those families in need and donating land for a new fire station. There being no more business Chairman Wooden closed the meeting.

FF/EMS/L&O

Police Firefighter EMT met in Salon E at the Indianapolis Marriott East at 1030h, the meeting was called to order in proper fashion by Chairperson Nick Nicholoff with all districts represented. The minutes were read and approved. Books for candidates need to

be at the Department by May 19th. Judging will be held at the Department headquarters on June 11th by 3 independent judges. District reports found all districts had candidates, some for not all three. Discussion on how to obtain a candidate for EMT, suggestion was made to go to the local ambulance service. With no further business to come before the meeting, it was adjourned in proper fashion at 10:55 am.

Law Cadet Law Cadet Academy met in salon D at the Indianapolis Marriott east at 1200h, the meeting was called to order in proper fashion by Chairperson Ron Patterson with 8 districts represented. There were no minutes as the committee did not meet at midwinter. Discussion on recruiting at career centers. A list of career centers will be shared by the chair. We currently have between 35 and 38 cadets with a goal of 75. We need to go to posts and ask for help. The SAL has a committee on Law Cadet and they have donated $1000 towards 2 more awards. Ron Byrley reported on the money obtained so far from posts and districts for cadets. Contacting the public information officer for each State Police district was suggested. With no further business to come before the meeting it was closed in proper fashion at 1300h.

Post Education Committee

Post Education Committee: met in Salon B at the Indianapolis Marriott East at 1500h, the meeting was called to order in proper fashion by Chairperson Ron Byrley with all 11 districts represented and 10 guests. There were no minutes as the committee did not meet at mid-Winter. New forms and instructions for the CEWF/IVETS were passed out to each district chair to distribute to the posts and vice commanders at their districts. Open discussion on the training modules available on the national website and how to use them at the district meetings to encourage use at the posts. Discussion on the benefits of credit card machines at posts to collect membership. Reports from Districts, 1st, 2nd and third had no report.

4th Conducted training for vice commanders at district meetings. 5th no report. 6th trying to train posts on programs with rotating topics at each district meeting in their joint meeting with SAL and

Rehabilitation Commission

guests were present. Previous minutes were read and accepted.

Auxiliary. 7th coordinating with county service officers to assist with CEWF and IVETS claims. 8th conducts training at district meetings with vice commanders on different subjects. 9th no report. 10th no report. 11th district commander is conducting training for his vice commanders to assist their assigned posts. With no further business to come before the meeting it was adjourned in proper fashion at 1550h.

Legislative Committee:

Chairman Kenny Cooper opened his meeting in Salon A at 1500 hrs. With 22 members present, 3 absent and they had 2 guests. Minutes from the previous meeting were approved. Members discussed the negative aspect of the Military/ Veterans Coalition it was having in the state house. A discussion of the new make up of the Big 4 as the AMVETS have been deleted and the National Guard Association has been added. A motion was made by Ken Hylton and 2nd. by William Billings to have representative Randy Frye be awarded the Annual Legislative award at the Department convention in July. There being no more business Chairman Cooper adjourned the meeting.

Membership Committee:

The membership meeting was opened by Chair Laurie Bowman in Salon 4 and 5 at 1400 hrs. in form. The flag was saluted, prayer was given and the meeting was called to order. Roll call was completed and with 17 members present, 3 replacements and 1 absent. There were 23 guests.

NEC. Ed Trice introduced leading candidate Jim Troiola (from New York) for National Commander. Aaron Bacon and Audrey Copeland, the Department of Indiana membership coordinators were introduced. Aaron Bacon is the newest membership coordinator in the Department, and both will be processing memberships.

Commander Gullion was introduced and stated we need a final push on membership to meet our 103% goal. He said we can make it happen and need to visit our posts and continue to call on 2019-2021 unpaid members. We will be publishing a final plan next week. Chair Bowman stated operation welcome is scheduled to begin this month to talk about what the American Legion is about, and why they should join and how we can improve

our organization to meet the needs of our younger veterans. We would like to see this program pushed down to the post level. Think outside the box and share your ideas.

Chair Bowman passed out the 10 year members by districts to all commanders as well as, the unpaid Honorary Life members. Lets ensure we take care of the unpaid Honorary members.

Chair Bowman talked about the upcoming close of books that is being held at Indiana Veterans Home on June 5th. Only the current or incoming district commanders can pick up the 2023 card packets for their district. Inform your posts that they need to pick up the 2023 cards from the district commander. Do not submit any 2022 unused cards by mail or to the Department, they will be returned to the post. The entire officer certification packet and Consolidated Post Report must be at the Department before close of books or bought to IVH in order to get your 2023 membership packet. If your post is not certified the district commander will be responsible for driving to Department Headquarters to pick them up with needed information. The membership office will be sending out a spreadsheet of what forms have been turned in and what is missing.

Commander Gullion informed the group that they will be getting $500.00 to use for membership, be it gas, stamps or any other membership events. District commanders will have to do an accounting of what they spent the money on and whatever they don’t spend needs to be returned.

Adjutant Woodburn gave his perspective on what could be done to increase membership and to ensure we beat the state across the Wabash. Utilize postcards, they work and are simple and cheap to do.

Chair Bowman stated let’s get excited about membership. “Make it Happen”

The meeting closed at 1610 hrs. in due form.

Public Relations:

The meeting was opened in proper form by Chairman Roger Hilligoss in Salon A at 1400hrs. Roll call found 9 members present 7 absent and 1 guest. Districts not represented were the 1st,5th, and the 8th.

New business was a reminder to promote the Wayne Talbert Award, this is an award for post newslet-

ters, so be sure to get your entry turned in.

The Talbert award judging will take place June 11 @ 1200 at the Department Headquarters. There was no further business and the meeting was adjourned at 1420hrs.

Religious Emphasis:

Rev. Norris Keirn opened the meeting in Salon 6 at 1300hrs with a salute to the colors and prayer. The roll call showed 9 members present, Districts 7th,8th,9th and 11th were absent, there was 1 guest.

Rev. Keirn spoke about the season of year and the belief system. The National Commander candidate spoke about the “Be the One” it’s an effort to reduce veteran suicides, program promoted by the American Legion, Chip Ganassi Racing’s Tony Kanaan, so be on the look out for more information. More discussion on other books and material about helping our veterans with PTSD and other problems that our service men and women have come home with.

The question “ Is the Legion a place to sell Religious articles”? This committee has asked for a 1 hour meeting at the Fall Conf. There was no more business, the meeting was closed in proper form.

Department American Legion College : Chairman Rich Brown held this meeting in Salon A at 1200. Meeting was opened in proper form, the roll call was taken with 11 members present, 3 absent and 7 guests. Districts reported that there is already interest by applicants for next year and receiving good feedback from our district’s graduates.

A motion was made and 2nd, to have the chair and facilitators conduct a virtual review of the course which was just completed.

A date has been set for next year’s 2nd Annual Department American Legion College, it will be April 3-5 2023 (immediately preceding the 2023 Spring Conference. Chair Brown closed the meeting in proper form.

This concluded all reports, Rich Brown made the motion to accept all reports as given, Larie Bowman 2nd and the motion carried.

Kenny Cooper made the motion to adjourn, Nick Nickoloff 2nd motion carried the meeting was adjourned at 1420hrs.

RON HOAKS

Commission Chairman

The commission met at 4:00 p.m. on April 9, 2022, in Salon A of the Marriott East Hotel during the Spring Conference. Chairman Ron Hoaks opened the meeting in proper form. Roll call was conducted, and all were present. The following reports were given by the respective committee chairpersons.

General Hospital

Meeting was opened by Chairperson Rex Ikemire at 3:00 p.m. on April 9, 2022 in Salon 1. Roll call was conducted, 9 members were present, 2 were absent and 6

There were no resolutions or additional requests for funding. Meeting adjourned.

Homeless Veteran Meeting was opened by Chairperson Wayne Zeman at 3:00 p.m. on April 9, 2022 in Salon D. Roll call was conducted, 10 members were present, 1 absent and 0 guests were present. Previous minutes were read and accepted.

The following reports were made:

District 6: Attica is working with Johnny’s House to get them involved with Dick Quattrin Trust, Terre Haute. John Hickey requested we get the word out about Quattrin Shelter program.

District 9: Woman’s Shelter in Aurora now accept-

ing males. Clothing, donations and simple foods are welcomed by shelters in the area.

District 11: Distributed examples of a handout with resources they give out in their District. Discussed information on the sheet which included help for transitory, ex-offender, vets. There were no resolutions or additional requests for funding. Meeting adjourned.

Nursing Home Meeting was opened by Chairperson James Grauvogal 10:30 a.m. on April 9, 2022 in Salon 6-7. Roll call was conducted, 10 members were present, 1 absent and 0 guests were present. Previous minutes were read and accepted. There were no resolutions or additional requests for funding. Meeting adjourned.

Indiana Veteran’s Home Meeting was opened by Chairperson Jack Platt at 3:00 p.m. on April 9, 2022 in Salon E. Roll call was conducted; all members were present and 8 guests. Previous minutes were read and accepted.

Motion was approved to buy game console for $6,190.

There was a motion to spend $5,000 on fireworks.

There was a motion to buy sheets and linens for $3,183.

There were no resolutions or additional requests for funding. Meeting adjourned.

Employment Meeting was opened by Chairperson Willy Parks at 3:00 p.m. on April 9, 2022 in Salon D. Roll call was conducted, 10 members were present, 1 absent. Previous minutes were read and ac-

cepted.

Donald Mains from Department of Labor gave a presentation with questions and answers. There were no resolutions or additional requests for funding. Meeting was adjourned.

Veterans Assistance Meeting was opened by Chairperson Bob Rettig at 2:00 p.m. on April 9, 2022 in Salon D. Roll call was conducted, 13 members were present, 6 were absent and 4 guests present. Previous minutes were read and accepted.

Kevin Lee gave a presentation on My HealtheVet and how to enroll at myhealth. va.gov. There were no resolutions or additional requests for funding. Meeting was adjourned.

One heck of a ride Commander Gullion’s Year in Review

Hurricane

that the Department of Indiana donate $10,000 in assistance to the Department of Louisiana. A national hardware store offers to provide all goods and supplies “at cost” allowing a 26-foot U-Haul filled with chainsaws, leaf blowers, wheel barrels, rakes, shovels, 50 flats of Gatorade, paper towels, trash bags, bleach, rags, maps, and other requested supplies to be delivered in Baton Rouge, La., on Sept. 14, 2021.

as a community shelter for emergency workers and as an aid distribution location for the community. Montegut, La., Sept. 14, 2021.

During a visit to Muscatatuck Urban Training Center, Commander Gullion steps into a training jail cell in Butlerville, Ind. Friday, Oct. 1, 2021.

grant is delivered by Commander Gullion to the Hoosier Veterans Assistance Foundation (HVAF) in downtown Indianapolis, Tuesday, Nov. 23, 2021.

Seventeen hundred pounds of clothing from an American Legion Operation Comfort Warriors (OCW)

Jamie France of North Webster, Ind. receives his 9/11-themed motorcycle built by Operation Combat Bikesaver from Commander Mark Gullion at department headquarters in Indianapolis, Friday, Oct. 8, 2021.

Commander Mark Gullion salutes the flag during the National Anthem at the Indiana 9/11 War Memorial ceremony held in Indianapolis, Saturday, Sept. 11, 2021.

At a Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day ceremony held by Post 249 in Indianapolis, Commander Mark Gullion salutes the United States flag in honor of those lost on Dec. 7, 1941. The ceremony is concluded with a rifle volley and the placement of wreaths into the White River in Indianapolis, Dec. 7, 2021.

Indiana Legion commander Mark Gullion is sworn in during the 102nd Department Convention at Indianapolis Marriott East, Saturday, Jul. 10, 2021.

Commander Gullion enters the Corona Ranch rodeo arena on horseback during the Commander’s dinner in Phoenix, Sunday, Aug. 29, 2021.

Ida devastates the southern United States after making landfall on Aug. 26, 2021. Commander Mark Gullion requests

Commander Gullion and Kentucky Post 6 Commander Tommy Omer stand in front of two semi-trailers filled with goods donated to the December Kentucky tornado victims. Elberfeld Post 351 in Elberfeld, Ind., collected donations from local residents and the Department of Indiana donated an additional $10,000 to purchase supplies and aid for the victims. Madisonville, Ky., Saturday, Dec. 18, 2021.