2007 December The Hoosier Legionnaire

Vice President Calls On Legionnaires To Lead Opinion On War

ism Conference.

Cheney directed a challenge to Legionnaires in the audience, telling them their positions in their communities gives them a unique opportunity to support the war effort.

New Provider, Extra Benefits

The National Organization of The American Legion recently changed providers for the Discount Drug Program.

Although the transition from the former provider to Caremark /CVS was seamless and, according to Marianne Bergamo-Alger, Director of Member Benefits at the National Headquarters, “invisible to the members,” some Legion family members initially experienced confusion on the part of pharmacies who had not programmed new program numbers into their computers.

The changeover, however, once fully implemented, simplified procedures for taking advantage of the discounts, Bergamo-Alger said.

“If members have used RX America in the last 18 months they will receive a discount drug card in the mail … It is not necessary to use the card for the discount. The membership card works in the same way. As always, the discount applies to the member, and his or her dependents.”

Legion family members who previously did not use the discount program only need to visit any one of the more than 8,000 participating pharmacies to take advantage of the discount pharmacy program. The member simply shows his or her American Legion Membership Card to receive the discount.

Bergamo-Alger added that members and their dependents can use the discount card any time a prescription is not covered by insurance.

Continued on page 2

Vice President Dick Cheney, in an address at the Indiana World War Memorial in downtown Indianapolis early last month, called on Hoosier Legionnaires to take a leadership role in supporting the war on terror in their communities.

The Vice President made the brief stop to speak to not only Hoosier Legionnaires, but also Legionnaires from all across the country attending the National American-

“Because all of you are leaders in your communities, your help is important as we remind fellow citizens of the nature of our broader war on terror, the stakes for our country, and the need for a systematic effort to win decisive victory,” he said.

“I don’t know a better organization than The American Legion, with its posts and programs in almost every community in the nation, to take on the job of leading” public opinion concerning

the war,” said NECman Hansel.

Among the distinguished Hoosier Legionnaires who attended the invitation-only address were Indiana’s candidate for National Commander, Jim Koutz, SAL National Commander and Indiana native Ray Giehll, NECman Darrell Hansel, Southern Vice Commander Danny Rice, Department Adjutant Steve Short, and others.

Short, responding to a request from the National Organization, delivered the invocation from the platform. He described the experience as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and said “Even though I hustled off the stage right after the prayer, it was something I am proud to

have had the chance to do.

The Vice President also defended the CIA's interrogation methods and the war in Iraq.

“We cannot protect the nation, much less win a war, by simply bracing for another attack,” he said, emphasizing that a variety of interrogation methods, coupled with surveillance efforts have preventing attacks on the U.S.

“Because we've been focused, because we haven't let down our guard, we've gone six years without another 9/11," he said.

Koutz, who is chairman of the National Economic Commission and an endorsed candidate for National Com-

Walter Reed Offers Guidelines For Mail To Wounded Soldiers

and their families listed on the “America Supports You” website, www.americasupportsyou.mil.

Year.

Study Seeks Cause of Mystery Ills

The American Legion welcomes the findings of an Institute of Medicine report on Deployment Related Stress. The final report was scheduled to be released on Nov. 14, but no word on the study has been released and reasons for the delay are not known.

“In view of the serious and widespread impact of stress on the health of military personnel who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan, this focus on the health effects of stress is timely and important, “said Marty Conatser, national

commander of The American Legion.

“However, it is equally important to distinguish between current deployments and the 1991 Gulf War.”

The environmental conditions of the 1991 Gulf War were different from other wars, including current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. Troops serving in the current Iraq war have been subject to long deployments, and many have experienced serious injuries and psychological trauma. A significant number have been

Legion License Plates Now Available For Motorcycles

Procedures And Fees

Same As For Cars, RVs, Light Trucks

The American Legion license plate will be available for motorcycles beginning January 1, 2008, at Bureau of Motor Vehicle branches around the state.

The plates have until now been available only for passenger vehicles and light trucks (up to 11,000 lbs. GVW). The expansion of the program coincides with the growth of the American Legion Riders program in Indiana and comes in response to increasing demand for such plates.

In addition to the usual government taxes and fees, the new motorcycle plates will require payment of the

same $15 special plate fee and the $10 administrative fee charged for automobile plates. The $10 is earmarked for Legion expenses, and any excess is allocated to Legion programs and activities.

The special authorization form originally required for purchase of Legion license plates was discontinued at the beginning of the 2007 plate year, and will not be required for the motorcycle plate, either. The change has simplified the process for Legionnaires, who now need only visit the branch or specify the special interest plate on the mail or on-line registration form and pay the fees. A visit to or request from Department Headquarters is no longer necessary.

The motorcycle plates will carry the two-letter prefix, “L” over “I.” No other combinations will be made available, until supplies of the LI plate are exhausted at some point in the future. The popularity of special interest plates has reduced the number of available letter combinations suitable for use on Legion plates, and the Department staff determined that LI – Legion Indiana, was the best available fit.

The Indiana Legionnaire license plate is in its second five-year phase, which saw the introduction of new, highly reflective plate materials. The change required all plate holders who wished to retain

affected by long-term psychological problems, most prominently post-traumatic stress disorder.

In contrast, the 1991 Gulf War was brief—just 100 hours of ground fighting—with remarkably few casualties. Most troops were not in combat areas and did not experience serious trauma. As a result, relatively few were affected by PTSD or other psychiatric conditions.

The 1991 Gulf War gave rise

Walter Reed Army Medical Center officials want to remind those individuals who want to show their appreciation to hospitalized service men and women that Walter Reed cannot accept packages, letters, and holiday cards addressed to 'Any Wounded Soldier' or 'A Recovering American Soldier' and sent through the U.S. Postal Service.

This policy is enforced in support of a decision by the Deputy Undersecretary of Defense for Transportation Policy in 2001 made to ensure the safety and well being of patients and staff at medical centers throughout the Department of Defense.

Other organizations that offer means of showing your support for our troops or assist wounded servicemembers and their families include, in addition to The American Legion:

“… consider making a donation to one of the more than 300 nonprofit organizations dedicated to helping our troops … ”

In addition, the U.S. Postal Service is no longer accepting “Any Service Member” or “A Recovering American Soldier” letters or packages. Mail to “Any Service Member” that is deposited into a collection box will not be delivered.

Instead of sending an “Any Wounded Soldier” letter or package to Walter Reed, please consider making a donation to one of the more than 300 nonprofit organizations dedicated to helping our troops

• w ww.usocares.org

• w ww4.army. mil/ocpa/tooursoldiers/

• w ww.redcross.org

For individuals without computer access, local military installations, National Guard Armories or military reserve units in your area may offer the best alternative to show your support to our returning troops and their families. Walter Reed Army Medical Center will continue to receive, process, and deliver all mail that is addressed to a specific individual.

As Walter Reed continues to enhance the medical care and processes for our returning service members, it must also must keep our patients and staff members safe while following Department of Defense policy. The outpouring of encouragement from the general public, corporate America and civic groups throughout the past year has been incredible.

Some Cancer Risks Can Be Controlled, Others Can’t; The Financial Hardship Is Unnecessary, Preventable

Special To The Hoosier Legionnaire

By Associated Group Insurance Administrators/LIT

Cancer is a frightening word, one that is hard to hear when it involves you personally. There are certain risk factors you can look out for to help protect you from getting this dreadful disease.

Some risks* you can control are:

• Diet—choose one that is rich in a variety of plant-based foods, plenty of vegetables and fruit.**

• Smoking—don’t smoke. If you do smoke—quit!

• Exposure to secondhand smoke—avoid being around people who are smoking, and smoky environments

There are other risks* that we have no control over:

• Your age—cancer risk increases as we age.

• Genetic make up—a predisposition for cancer.

• Family history—family members who have had cancer.

• Diseases or medical conditions that increase your risk.

By themselves, these risks don’t make your chances

of getting cancer greater. Instead, it’s a combination of factors and lifestyle that can increase your risk. And, any of these factors in combination can produce different results for different people. So, you could be more or less sensitive to the effects of these risks. While there are some risks you can’t control, surviving the financial hardship cancer can cause is one you can. The Legionnaire Insurance Trust has developed the Cancer Care Plan to help you avoid the financial risks—with cash benefits to use as you see fit.

The plan—endorsed by the LIT—offers other valuable benefits like routine cancer screening; hospital room and board; drugs and medicine while you are hospitalized or as an outpatient; ambulance expense, and much more. Also, there are no physical exams, you can cover your spouse and the specially negotiated group rates make the plan affordable. You can’t control all of life’s risks, but you can take control of your financial future. Call 1-800-235-6943 for more information today.

*Your Cancer Risk, Harvard Center for Cancer Prevention, 2000.

**American Institute for Cancer Research website: www.alcr.org

Something You Don’t See Every Day

Pledge’s History Entwined With The American Legion’s

The original pledge was written in August 1892 by a Baptist minister, Mr. Francis Bellamy (1855-1931). He was a Christian Socialist and in his pledge, he was expressing the ideas of his first cousin, Edward Bellamy, who was the author of American Socialist novels, such as Looking Backward (1888) and Equality (1897).

Francis Bellamy, in his sermons and lectures, and Edward Bellamy in his novels and articles, described in detail how the middle class could create a planned economy with political, social and economic equality for all. Their theories were that the government could run a peace-time economy similar to our present-day military industrial complex.

The pledge was first published in the September 8 issue of The Youth’s Companion, the leading family magazine of that time. It was the Readers Digest of its day. Its owner and editor, Daniel Ford, had hired Francis as his assistant in 1891.

In 1892 Francis Bellamy was

Cheney Visit

Continued from page 1

mander, said Cheney “is an inspiring speaker, and you could tell from the response of the audience that Indiana’s veterans and service men and women agree with staying the course until we win.”

In addition to Hoosier Le-

gionnaires, National Commander Marty Conatser and other officers from the National Organization attended the address. Indiana Republican Party members also attended, as did contingents of school children from Indianapolis schools.

Editor’s Note: Noblesville Post 45 member Jerry Davis, in a letter to Past Sixth District Commander Jack Sears, wrote that he “became appalled to learn that there are groups trying to have “Under God” removed from the pledge of allegiance …” He researched the history of the pledge and the results of his probe work are published here. Davis and others will be pleased that The American Legion is on record by convention resolution as opposing the removal of “Under God” from the pledge.

also chairman of a committee of state superintendents of education in the National Education Association. As its chairman, it was his responsibility to prepare the program for the Public schools’ celebration of Columbus Day in 1892. He planned his program around a flag raising ceremony with a salute to the American flag. It was to be his pledge of allegiance.

His original pledge read as follows:

“I pledge allegiance to my flag and the republic for which it stands, one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

He considered placing the word “equality” in his pledge, but he knew that the state superintendents of education on his committee were against equality for women

and African Americans. (The word “ to” was added in October 1892).

In 1923 and 1924 the National Flag Conference, under the leadership of The American Legion and the Daughters of the American Revolution, changed the pledge’s words,” my flag” to “the flag of the United States of America”.

In 1954, after a campaign by the Knights of Columbus, the United States Congress added the words “Under God,” to the pledge. This now makes the pledge both a patriotic oath and a public prayer.

The pledge now reads as follows:

“I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”

National Commander Urges Emergency War Funding

WASHINGTON, DC—Following the Army’s announcement that it must prepare for reduced operations at all Army bases due to a lack of appropriations necessary to perform its war-fighting and strategic functions, The American Legion called on Congress to immediately pass the Emergency Supplemental Funding needed to support the Global War on Terrorism.

“Exactly what part of 'emergency' does Congress not understand?” said Marty Conatser, national commander of The American Legion.

“Congressional failure to appropriate the funds needed to prosecute the war threatens the safety of our soldiers, sailors and Marines who we, as a nation, have placed in Harm’s Way. It is time for the political posturing to end, and for Congress to do its duty. We must not play politics with the lives of our fighting men and women.”

The Army is essentially planning to shut down or minimize operations in its support structure and in other less prominent but important worldwide missions and tasks.

“We know our armed forces need assured funding to provide the logistics and training

is discussing POW/MIA issue with the government of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

vital to the men and women on the front lines in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as for those stationed in 130 other countries around the world,” Conatser said.

Congress’ failure to fund our armed forces will also hurt our military families - the strength behind our armed forces.

“Lack of funds will close childcare facilities, close base schools, reduce base and military housing security and destroy the quality of life for the civilians who are carrying the greatest burden in this war— military family members,” Conatser said. “We owe our

their prior year plate number to apply for re-issue of the number.

The Indiana Legionnaire license plate program has consistently ranked among the BMV’s top ten special interest plates, and consistently provides a significant share of the Department’s annual nonmembership income.

The Bureau of Motor Vehicles has granted the Department of Indiana a four-year extension of the current procedures in which the BMV collects all fees and forwards the Department share to Headquarters. Legion plate buyers will be exempt from new additional fees being charged by the BMV for the service.

The third five-year period for the Legion plate, which begins with the 2012 plate year, may see additional fees or a change back to the special form requirement. Members of the Legion Family will be kept advised of BMV rule and policy changes.

Members of The American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of The American Legion are authorized to purchase and display the Indiana Legionnaire special plate.

Prescription Plan

Continued from page 1

There are no restrictions and no limits on how many times the card can be used.

As part of the program, members also will be eligible for higher discounts on certain medications, as well as on high-tech and injectable drugs, and will be eligible to participate in the mail-order program, which provides additional savings over the regular retail price of a 90-day supply of certain medications. Information on that service and for other information directly from the program providers, members are encouraged to contact Caremark directly at 1 (888) 414-3141 or on the company’s website, www.caremark. com/legion.

In addition to drug price discounts, members who use the new program at any participating CVS pharmacy will receive a CVS Health Advocate card within 30-45 days, which will give them a 20 percent discount on CVS brand merchandise at any CVS store.

service members and their families everything we’ve got!

“The American Legion calls on Congress to put partisan politics aside and unite behind our troops. While there may be many different opinions about the war being waged in Iraq, we cannot let the politics of the situation endanger the lives of our men and women at the front, nor can we allow our petty differences to further disrupt the lives of the families left behind. We urge Congress to authorize the supplemental funding needed without any further delay,” Conatser said.

HALPA Breakfast Set

The regular breakfast meeting of the Hoosier American Legion Press Association is scheduled for 7:00 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 12, 2008 at Lincoln Square Restaurant in the La Quinta Inn adjacent to the Indianapolis Marriott Hotel East.

Members and guests are asked to advise Ralph Tolan, HALPA Secretary, or Stanley

Nalewski, HALPA President as soon as possible so arrangements can be made with the restaurant.

The business meeting follows the breakfast, which is Dutch treat.

The meeting coincides with the annual Mid-Winter Conference, also scheduled for Jan. 11-12.

Participating pharmacies, in addition to CVS, include, include Walgreens, Wal-Mart, Target, Rite-Aid, K-Mart and many others. Bergamo-Alger added that members who have a funded insurance program in some cases may find the the Legion discount to be cheaper than their co-pay.

“Always ask the pharmacist to run it (the prescription order) through both programs,” she said.

Additional information on the program also can be obtained by calling the Member Benefits office at 1 (317) 8603020.

District 10

Continued from page 4

curred while I was writing this article. It is still hard to believe. From Post 70, Post Commander James Pleak, his wife and daughter were involved in an automobile accident over the Thanksgiving holiday and were lost. He was the Tenth District Flag Education Chairman and ran our 20-20 drawing at our district meetings. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the survivors of this terrible accident. And he, his wife and daughter will be sorely missed.

National Commander Marty Conatser shares the stage with Vice President Dick Cheney during Cheney visit to Indianapolis last month. Cheney called on Legionnaires to provide the necessary leadership in their communities for continued support of the war effort in Iraq.

Editor’s Note: This statement by National Commander Marty Conatser was issued through The American Legion’s Washington Office, via Hanoi, while Commander Conatser

Past 11th District Commander Bob Flynn (left) and Speedway Post 500 Commander Bill May stand in reflected glory as the famed Lombardi Trophy makes a special appearance at Speedway Post 500’s Early Bird Dinner honoring the Post’s members who renewed early. Commander May arranged for the trophy to be displayed at the post as a special reward for the Early Birds, who later lined up to have their photos taken with the legendary trophy. The Lombardi Trophy is presented annually to the winner of the National Football League’s NFC/AFC Championship Game – the Superbowl. The Indianapolis Colts took home the trophy in last season’s football classic.

DISTRICT 1

Don Sales Commander

Hello to all from Lake County, Indiana.

Time flies when you’re having fun, as the saying goes. That is what is happening here in the First District.

I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge Griffith Post 66 for its community service work and education of the Flag. The post’s Color Guard posts colors at all home high school sport events. What better way to show the community what The American Legion is about and to show pride in our Flag.

Past 1st District Commander Jack Smith always has his van full of fellow Post 66 members for the monthly visit to Hines Hospital. They bring items to each visit for the library and game room for the veterans. This Post is working the programs of the Legion along with many other events held at their Post working with the S.A.L and Auxiliary.

Navy Day was celebrated at the War Memorial in Munster on October 27. I was told that was ‘National Make a Difference Day’ and 1st District Vice Commander Juan Roman sure made a difference with the program he put together for Navy Day.

U.S Steel invited me to participate in its Veteran’s Day service. It is my wish that more businesses would take the time to honor the veterans, many who are their employees. Our town also had a Veteran’s Day service which I participated in along with

many other veterans. Posts 20, Crown Point, and 232, Hessville, had free breakfast for veterans and Post 80, Whiting, had a spaghetti dinner in their honor. We must remember to recognize and honor our veterans if we want The American Legion to survive and grow.

The Allied Post 369 Legion Family put together a wonderful fund raiser for Auxiliary Unit 369 President Shirley Ridenour. I’m sure many of you know Shirley and her husband David because the Legion Family support was overwhelming. We are happy to report she has been moved to a hospital closer to home in Hammond. Please continue your prayers.

Our District meetings seem to be more productive with the use of Commander Somerville’s Team Unity Program Chart. Our membership team, headed up by Fred Lemos and Vice Commanders Juan Roman, Dick Smith, Charlie Franklin, Gail Galic, and Nick Plesha, is really doing a great job. We have to work to get the renewals and new membership is a full time job for every Legion Family member.

The Child Welfare Fund grows every month in our District and we will see to it that Jack Cook gets his pineapple upside down cake.

To all Legion members and their families, I wish you a happy and safe holiday season – God bless you all.

Bruce Steffen Commander

Happy Holidays to everyone.

The last two months have been very busy within the Second District. We have visited quite a number of Post meetings and events. The visit by the National Commander, Marty Conatser, to the Indiana Veteran’s Home at West Lafayette was a huge success. A big thank you to West Lafayette Post 492 and Post Commander Jack Platt for the hospitality given to the Commander. The food was very good. The National Commander’s tour at the facilities of the Indiana Veteran’s Home was conducted artfully by Denny Pettit and Cal Cree of Post 492.

During the Fall Conference the Second District had every committee meeting attended by our Chair persons or a representative. Executive Vice Commander Jim Hall worked hard to make sure all meetings were covered.

Commander Bruce Steffen had the distinct privilege to be the guest speaker at the Newton County Veteran’s Day Ceremony, sponsored by five Posts—Brook, Morocco, Lake Village, Roselawn, and Kentland. This was indeed one of the highlights of my year as Commander thus far.

On Monday, November 12, I attended Veteran’s Day Ceremonies at Demotte Post 440. We were invited to Kouts Post 301 where they were serving a free turkey dinner to any veteran that day. During October and November we visited twenty-five Post meetings. At each of these meetings I inquired about their plans for Veteran’s Day activities, and I can attest that every Post covered Veteran’s Day completely. I salute each Post for elevating this holiday to the level that it should be.

As the year 2007 comes to an end and 2008 begins, we must shift our membership programs into second gear and contact each member who has not renewed his or

District Leaders At Work Finance Officer Tony Riley, Past 6th District Commander John French, and Past Department Commander Ron Lowe get the grins during a break at Legion Day at Knightstown Home. These Sixth District leaders are typical of the Department of Indiana’s district-by-district support of the young people at the Home, which ranges from Christmas celebrations to graduation gifts and trips, and much more in between.

DISTRICT 3

Richard Richardson Commander

Seasons Greetings from Commander Rich and the Third District.

We have had several programs since the last issue of the Hoosier Legionnaire and here are some of them that the Third has sponsored.

New Carlisle American Legion Post 297 along with the Rolling Prairie VFW/AMVET posts were honored to provide the color guard for the annual New Prairie Junior High School Veterans Day Program. The guest speaker was Cdr. Michael Hollifield, JAG Corps, USN, a veteran of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. He is the twin brother to New Prairie Junior High Principal Jim Hollifield.

There were patriotic songs, a history of Veterans Day given by Mrs. Miller’s STAR Class, and the playing of Taps. There were also many other veterans in attendance, which included some of the teachers and those still in the service.

The post also had its traditional Veteran’s day program with the guest speaker being the leading candidate for Department Commander Ralph Tolan.

Post 161 again had their usual Veteran’s Day service with some special guests this year. The featured speaker was none other than Department Commander Tommy Somerville. Following the Veteran’s Day program, the post was rededicated as Ryan A. Balmer Post 161 in honor of TSgt Ryan Balmer who gave his life in Iraq this year.

Present at the ceremony was Department Commander Somerville, Congressman Joe Donnelly and Mayor Jeff Rea. The hall was packed with a standing room only crowd. The usual army stew was enjoyed by all in attendance following the two ceremonies.

Our National Commander, Marty Conaster, from the State of Illinois, and his entourage of important members of the Legion, Auxiliary, and the SAL, stopped in the 5th District at Roanoke Post 160 to eat lunch during their tour. 5th District Commander Michael Comerford, along with many Legion, Auxiliary, and SAL members, were present to greet him and those traveling with him.

Montpelier Post 156 Post Commander, Dug (Fug Dugget) Fugitt advises his Post had a Welcome Home get together for three American heroes who just returned from Iraq and Afghanistan, one of whom had been wounded.

Welcome Home BUD HAROLD, PAT CLOUSE, and RYAN HARTLEY! The turnout was pretty good with the TV media present along with some elected political people. The heroes got up and told those in attendance about what is going on over there in harm’s way which to no one’s surprise was far different from what you get from the media.

We in the 5th District welcome back these heroes as well as all the heroes who return from duty in our Armed Forces. Welcome home and congratulations on a job well done.

I was talking with District Commander Comerford and he told me about a family in the Kokomo area who has a member going to Iraq and they were asking about renting a room at Post 6 to give this Armed Forces member a going away party. Commander Comerford told them “no charge, no rent.” The room was free to them.

District Bowling Chairman

• MIKE COMERFORD, Post 6, State Golf Vice Chairman, 5th District Golf Chairman …

• HOWARD “Skip” BURTON, Post 469, 5th District Homeless Veterans Chairman

• RAY YATES, Post 14, 5th District Indiana Vet’s Home Chairman and State Vice Chair for Nursing Home …

• ED TRICE, Post 313, member at large for the Indiana Veteran’s Home …

• LARRY HEDGES, Post 6, 5th District Nursing Home Chairman …

• DON COLE, Post 15, 5th District Veteran’s Assistance Chairman and 5th District Convention Contests Chairman …

• KENT MULLETT, Post 15, 5th District American Legion Riders Chairman…

• ANGELO BEATRICE, Post 211, 5th Dist Girl Scout Chairman …

• CHUCK CUNNINGHAM, Post 469, 5th District Community Involvement Chairman …

• BUD NICKELS, Post 14, Com. Rep. for Firefighter and Law and Order Awards …

• JACK BUTLER, Post 402, 5th District Legislative Chairman …

• PETE BRANNON, Post 95, 5th District Membership Chairman …

• DUGLESS “Fug” FUGITT, Post 156, 5th District New Post Chairman and State V-Chairman for Employment

• SYD PORIS, Post 85, 5th District Religious Emphasis Chairman …

• JERRY STEVENS, Post 313, 5th District Employment

her membership. Post membership committees need to publish a list of unpaid members and make the list available to all members to work the list to get everyone’s dues paid.

Remember, when 2008 arrives and your Legion card says 2007, you are no longer a member of this great organization; consequently, you cannot participate in any Post function or election. Keep working the new member procurement program in your Post.

If an eligible veteran asks you why they should belong or what does the Legion have for me, here are a few answers you can supply them: Legion Baseball, in which we need managers, Post bowling teams, and golf tournaments. Legion posts need members to go into the local schools to promote our American Legion Family Scholarships, Oratorical, and Boys State programs. Many Posts have Boy and Girl Scout Troop sponsorships. We need volunteers to have the schools participate in our Flag Education/Etiquette, and Americanism and Government Testing, On the community level we need volunteers to solicit Law Officer, Firefighter, Emergency Medical Responders, and Educators to vie for the District nominees for the Department Convention.

Also, we need members to be in Post Ceremonial and Firing Squads, Membership Procurement, American Legion Riders, and to serve as officers to help run the post. Whew!

I am sure you can add many more duties or help needed for your Legion Post; but, I hope you give the answer, “There is certainly something of interest to you, a new member.” All you need to do is ask. I repeat: “Just ask!” If we do everything necessary for our membership, then I assure you that every Legion Post will have a “Happy New Year!”

It is good to see that there is at least one school that will teach our kids the true meaning of Veterans Day. We have been invited back next year when the new Junior High building has been completed.

LaPorte Post served over 120 veterans and their guests dinner following their program on Veteran’s Day. A great time was had by all in attendance.

Commander Rich and all of the Third District officers wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

DISTRICT 4

Well, November has passed I would like to thank all of the Legion Posts that had programs on Veterans Day. It was wonderful to see so many Posts in the Fourth District doing an outstanding job in remembering our Veterans.

December is a very big month for the Fourth District. Hopefully, it will find the Fourth out of last place at the Department Level. In the past, the Posts have always had a first rate turn-in for December, so I'm looking for a huge turn out from the Posts in the Fourth District this month.

I'm finding that December is going to be just as busy as the months in the past. Post visitations, Post dinners and Christmas programs are going to keep my travels around the Fourth District a busy time. But, all in all, it’s a wonderful time of the year.

I want to thank the American Legion Riders for all of their hard work, and I see nothing but good things coming from the Fourth District Riders. With a very fast growing membership, their members are ready to get any task that may come to them done

and done well. They really are an outstanding group of people. Thank you all.

As I made my way around the District this last mont, I found out that the ladies of the Auxiliary are working just as hard to build their membership and keep their support of the America Legion as strong as ever.

With over 2,800 young men and women once again heading in harms’ way to Iraq, we need to once again turn our thoughts to them and their families. Show them our support and let them know that we are behind them all the way. Our support can come in many ways, including packages sent to the troops, but lets not forget the family members still here at home.

So many times, they are forgotten, as they struggle with things like the high cost of living, high priced gas, food expenses. It has got to be hard to manage. Please keep them in your minds and prayers.

With that, the District Officers and the Legion members of the Fourth District, want to wish all a safe and very Merry Christmas.

November 10, 1775, the United State Marines came to be. And on the Corps 232nd birthday this year, at an annual Fairmount Post#313 Marine Corps Birthday celebration, our own 5th District Past Commander, Past Northern Vice Commander, and Past Department Membership Chairman Ed Trice walked in wearing the same uniform he wore out of Camp Pendleton many years ago. Not to many of us can still do that now, is there?

While stopping by Marion Post 10 the other day I noticed that its Honor Guard has done 146 veterans funerals so far this year. And the year is not over. Our veterans are falling fast, comrades, and we need to get the eligible veterans into our great organization or we are not going to continue.

The 5th District has some mighty important Committee Chairmen doing so much to further the Legion ideals:

• BOB BACH, Post 313, 5th District Boy’s State Chairman, State Boy’s State Enrollment Chairman, State Americanism and Government Chairman, and 5th District Americanism and Government Chairman …

• ROBERT SPENCER, Post 313, 5th District National Security/Foreign Affairs Chairman, and the 5th District Junior Shooting Sports Chairman …

• WALT BAKER, Post 46, 5th District Flag Education/ Etiquette Chairman …

• ROGER BAKER, Post 212, 5th District Knightstown Home Chairman, 5th District Baseball Chairman, and State Vice Chairman of National Security/Foreign Affairs …

• RICK HUDSON, Post 156, 5th District Oratorical and School Awards Chairman

• DOUG HOWARD, Post 368, 5th District Children and Youth Chairman …

• SHANNON MCCROSKEY, Post 368, State Bowling Chairman …

Chairman …

• PAUL LAYMAN, Post 10, 5th District General Hospital Chair and the Marion VA Hospital Rep …

• BRENT AUGSPURGER, Post 160, State POW/MIA Secretary and 5th District SAL

Chairman …

• ROCK FOUST, Post 286, 5th District POW/MIA Chairman …

• LARRY MCBEE, Post 12, 5th District Family Scholarship Chairman … and

• CHARLES HOWARD, Post 286, 5th District Boy Scout Chairman…

Thanks to you all for all you do for the District and the State American Legion. It is appreciated.

The 5th District Auxiliary along with some able bodied members of the 5th District American Legion were front and center to do the annual Christmas gift wrap at the Marion VA Hospital. Past State Auxiliary President’s Virginia Baker and Thelma Butler along with 5th District Auxiliary President Sue Comerford and 5th District Commander, Michael Comerford was all seen having a good time helping with the gift wrap.

If you were to wonder just how many 5th District Legionnaires it takes to put up an awning, just ask 5th District Auxiliary President Sue

Comerford … she may just show you her documentation alluding to this little known tidbit fact.

Continued in column 5

• DAVE RITENOUR, Post 160, Post 705 Chairman, atlarge member of Knightstown Home, 5th District Fire Fighter Awards Chairman, 5th District Law and Order Awards Chairman, and member at large of the Indiana Veterans Home…

• JACK LYNN, Post 15, 5th

The 5th District Auxiliary, SAL, and Legion all went together and purchased an Rascal electric wheel chair for the Indiana Veterans Home down at West Lafayette for that veterans that cannot get around to handily without some assistance. This is one of those things that normally does not get talked about, but I’m opening my big mouth and telling everyone because it is a good thing for our District to have done. Thanks to Irene Davis of Auxiliary Unit 95. She is the 5th District Auxiliary Indiana Veteran Home Chairman. Great Job, Irene! The 5th District Auxiliary of The American Legion has always has been there for the veterans and is certainly appreciated for all they do for the American Veterans! Again….GREAT JOB, IRENE! Keep up the good work on behalf of our veterans! Irene is a Past District 5 President of The American Legion Auxiliary and just to say she is appreciated really falls short of what our gratitude really is for this lady.

Al Myers Commander DISTRICT 5

Mike Comerford Commander

By David Sharber Eighth District Public Relations Officer

Greetings from Commander Mel.

I want to wish all of you a very Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year. It is getting close to the time when your membership in The American Legion may be running out. Get into your local Post before the end of the year and RENEW!

The American Legion has many opportunities for service. One such opportunity is through holding positions in the district structure and advancing. If you would like to become more involved in the district you need to express your interest the current 8th district commander and to the past commanders group. The past commanders will be meeting at Abe Lincoln Post 444 in Dale January 5 at 1:00 p.m. Dale time. Feel free to attend that meeting if you have interest in advancing in the district.

Our next goal is 85 percent and when you get this we will be past that. Many of the Posts are above and just below that goal. Those who are well above the 85 percent goal do not stop. Those who are close keep working those membership reports and meet the next goal of 90 percent at the Mid-Winter Conference. I know we are all trying but we need to keep up the good work.

Congratulations to all the Posts who have made the 85 percent: Jasper Post 147, Marengo Post 84, Tennyson Post 463, Poseyville Post 278 and Corydon Post 123. Many are close, so do not give up. Again I want to wish all a very happy holiday season.

William “Zeb” Longest Post 42 in Floyds Knobs shares great news with us. They have just chartered a new Boy Scout troop. The new charter is for Troop 5. Kevin McGuire, the district representative, and Don Lentz, the Scoutmaster, have laid the groundwork for a relationship with the post that will pay dividends for years to come. Their dedication to scouting and their desire to charter a troop that is beyond a tenant, has brought together two great American institutions that want to work together—The American Legion and Scouting.

Although the troop is in it’s infancy, they are a part of Post 42 and will be working right alongside our members to enrich the community and learn something while they are doing it. Kevin is a veteran and one of Post 42’s newest members.

Post 42 also shares this great story with us that epitomizes what The American Legion is all about. They write, ‘…Several months ago, during the Auxiliary’s Department of Indiana Convention in Merrillville, one of our Auxiliary members fell ill and ultimately spent over a week in the hospital in Merrillville.

Family members rushed to be with her but the rest of her American Legion family at Post 42 felt a little helpless being hundreds of miles away in southern Indiana. However, one phone call to Post 430 in Merrillville brought the American Legion family back together. During the time our member was in the hospital in Merrillville, she was visited several times by 430's Chaplain, and she and her family knew that if there was anything they needed, 430 was there to help! A huge, heartfelt THANK YOU to our comrades at Merrillville Post 430. If we can ever return the favor, please let us know.’

This story about the Legion family coming together over great distances just goes to illustrate what I tell people

when I am trying to recruit. Being a Legion family member reaches beyond the doors of the post home; it’s like having family everywhere you go.

Alton Post 133 was busy on Veterans Day. They held a dinner and showcased a documentary paying tribute to Vietnam Veterans entitled “In The Shadow Of The Blade.”

Several of Post 133’s Legion family members paid a visit to the veterans in the Todd Dickey Nursing Home and took them T-shirts, cupcakes, candy and small flags. Even the smallest things mean a lot to someone confined to a nursing home.

Owen Dunn Post 5 in Mt. Vernon had a busy Veterans Day weekend. Saturday night was “Old Uniform Night” with a dinner, a program featuring the Michael Peterson DVD, and a dance.

The Michael Peterson DVD features the music video “It’s Who We Are,” a segment to educate us on the American Legacy Scholarship and a segment that rolls out the various Legion programs and gives those viewing a better understanding of “Who We Are.” This DVD is very well done and a great tool to use in post programs and meetings.

Sunday brought the annual Veterans Day ceremony at 11:00 attended by 92 people and then at 5:00 p.m. we conducted our annual Flag Retirement with the assistance of Cub Scout Pack 372. Owen Dunn Post 5 retired 294 flags this year bringing the total since our start a few years ago to 6,410.

It’s not just places like Floyds Knobs, Alton and Mt. Vernon that are doing things for the veterans and the communities. Everywhere you look you can find the presence of the American Legion and it’s citizen soldiers turning out for patriotic celebrations, civic functions, answering the call in troubled times yet too often we stand in the shadows and don’t step up for proper recognition. We are the Go To Guys and people in our communities know it. There is no shame in taking credit and showing pride. We are The American Legion Family. The more people learn about us the more they will want to become a part of us.

Here is something to think about: each and every one of you know someone who is eligible to become a member of the Legion Family. Too many times the only reason they aren’t already a member is because no one has asked them to join or because they don’t really know what The American Legion is all about. Membership is the job of each and every Legion family member. Talk to your friends and neighbors.

If we are to survive as an organization and continue the valuable work we do for the veterans, their families, the community and the nation, we must stop this downward spiral in membership and begin to grow. And, for the love of Pete, do not start your recruiting pitch with “they have great prices on drinks.”

If that is all you know about The American Legion, you’ve missed the boat.

I need your input for the Eighth District articles going into the Hoosier Legionnaire. If your Post or someone in your Post does something newsworthy please send it to me, David Sharber, by e-mail to wobegon@sit-co.net or by mail at P.O. 60 in Mt. Vernon, IN 47620. We need newsworthy Legion, veteran, community-related information. No gossip please, just news.

DISTRICT 9

Milton Howard Commander

Greetings from the Nifty Ninth.

I hope everyone and their families are healthy, happy and have the greatest holiday season ever.

We've had sad news here in the Ninth District. Post 250 Mitchell has lost the Post Home due to fire.

I visited Mitchell when they had an emergency meeting and there is one thing for sure. They lost a post home but they sure didn't lose their post. They already had a place donated for an office and meeting room. Other clubs had offered their halls for anything they needed a larger place for. Fundraisers were being planned. It seemed as if everyone in this great veterans’ city has stepped up to the plate and offered to help in their time of need. Post 250 has the same phone number and PO Box as always. If any other Post or individual wants to help in anyway please get in touch with them. Commander Robbins said that anyone that wanted to help whether it be donating time, money tables,

chairs, or anything else, that it would be greatly appreciated. Our membership in the Ninth has been staying around third or fourth place in the Department all year. We're making the Districts that are ahead of us work their butts off. If the Ninth gets a big turn in as usual at the first of the year, I think we well take over first or second place in the Department. Our District membership chairmen, Al (east) and Ron (west), have been working very hard this year along with all of our Vice Commanders, Post Commanders and membership chairman and teams to get and keep the Nifty Ninth toward the top. I'd like to thank all of the Ninth for renewing their members and all of the new members we have signed up. We are number one in the Department at retaining our members. This is the most challenging accomplishment in membership. I'd like to thank all Posts for their hospitality and friendship during my visits.

DISTRICT 10

Kenny Toll Commander

Greetings from the Tenth District.

We are almost halfway through the year already and still have a lot of work to accomplish before spring gets here. We have been on the road visiting as many Posts as we can because that is what we do.

Thanks to all of our brothers and sisters at each post we have visited, and give them a Thank You for your warm welcome to our team as we travel around our District, your support has been great. Thanks again.

November and December are be a busy time for us. We are planning at least one more Drive Around in February. We will let everyone know when we get it scheduled, please plan to attend, we are working real hard to have each Post 100 percent as soon as possible so we can concentrate on working our programs beside membership.

While we are on the subject, if you have not paid your 2008 dues as of yet, please attempt to do so as soon as you are able, we can not fund our programs without your support. Also if you have not visited your post lately, please do so, I know they are looking forward to seeing you, it takes everyone to make our posts productive for the community’s we are serving. Do not forget the main reason we are here, and that is to support our children, churches and

public services.

At present there are a few that are doing the work that should be done by many, so if you are able please attend your meetings and functions that they are working very hard to put together. With you, all the hard work it takes to put a program together will be a lot easier for all.

There is a member at Post 70 in Shelbyville that I would like to recognize for his service to the nation, community and post. His name is Frank U. Branson. Frank entered the army November 14, 1941, and service were in the South Pacific. He made the rank of Sergeant. He does not talk much about the war years, and we can understand why. Frank has been a long-time member of The American Legion and a member of the Honor Guard for over fifteen years. He is now eighty eight years young. The people I have talked to think he may be the oldest person serving on an Honor Guard in the state.

When they do their duty on honor guard detail, no one will get the American flag except Frank. He lets you know that is his flag. We thank Frank for his service to our country and The American Legion. (This portion of the news was written by Arnold Riddle of Post 70, Shelbyville.)

We have had a tragedy in our District that just oc-

Nice Shot

Ida May Jewell, chairperson of the Department’s Junior Shooting Sports Committee and the driving force behind the program in Indiana, presents the first place award to one of the youngsters who competed in the competition at Knightstown Home last month. Four teams competed, but Jewell continues to press for greater participation by Posts in sponsoring these young marksmen.

DISTRICT 11

Steve Barnett Commander

An Open Letter to the Eleventh District, Department of Indiana, The American Legion:

To My fellow Legionnaires

I write this letter with a heavy heart and a balanced response to our ‘New Day— Same Story’ approach to dealing with our beloved organization.

At Senator Robert Kennedy’s funeral, his brother Teddy said “…some men see things as they are and say ‘Why?’ Bobby saw things us they could be and said, ‘Why not?’”

I share that view. Since I became your District Commander, I have begun to see some problems. I asked myself, ‘Why?’ On the surface we appear as if we who have shared uniforms of service to the country are one.

In addition we are tempered by our unique experiences. However, I have begun to see our underline, yet easily defined; disrespect of what this organization is about: Our shared comrades in the mission to help our fellow veterans.

I see an isolationism throughout this district. It divides the races, the sexes, the haves and the have-nots. This is affecting our mission—to aid our fellow veterans, the way our joint efforts can.

Ask yourself, why do we have problems recruiting and retaining members? If we are truly honest, the answer can be simple. We are busy playing politics. We can’t see that

Editor’s Note: District Commanders’ columns are the work of individual elected commanders and reflect their views and opinion. The following open letter by 11th District Commander Steve Barnett does not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of The American Legion, Department of Indiana, or the Hoosier Legionnaire.

our actions or non-actions are decreasing our membership and acting as barriers to potential members.

I see things as they could be! I challenge everyone to say, “Why not?”

Ladies and Gentlemen! It is about The American Legion and what our legacy affords us. We in the 11th District, the heart of this multi-million membership that is multisexual, and multi-racial, must show by leadership what we must be, what we can be! If not, this organization that we swear to support in view, mission and nature at every district meeting will surely die.

In closing, it has been said to me that my position as District Commander is one figurehead with no power other than that behind the position. I can not now, nor shall I ever, subscribe to this negative portrayal.

I now ask you to join in a transformation that asks not “Why?” but “Why not?” Watch us grow! Facing reality will serve our fellow man—our veterans—throughout the district.

Commander’s Message

Continued from page 8

a veterans organization.

And who can argue that our nation’s young people face even greater challenges to their values and traditions that at any time before in our Nation’s history? More than in the 1960s, and even more than in the late 1920s and 1930s when the rise of foreign “isms” as a threat to Americanism, gave rise to American Legion Baseball. What other program, has had a greater impact on our society and our national pastime than American Legion Baseball?

Still, fewer and fewer posts are willing to devote the time and energy to this valuable Americanism program. As a matter of fact, where once Indiana sponsored nearly a hundred teams, we are down to so few that we may well be forced to revamp our championship format and reduce the number of regional games.

Our decline in programs affects more than our communities and our neighbors. We have suspended

Color Guard Competition at the convention because we can’t get enough units to participate. We have only a handful of posts competing for many of our longtime convention awards. And only a handful of our districts are honoring the emergency responders, the educators, and the employers who are so important to their communities. Our Department Convention is not only an opportunity for us to shine, but also to shine the spotlight on those we admire. And we are not doing it.

Remember who we are. Remember the legacy that was left to us. Remember the commitment each and every one of us made the day we became members of our organization. And remember that our community, state and nation depend on us to provide the leadership and initiative required to keep America free. And then, tell someone— preferably someone with a notebook, camera, or a tape

Mel Vinson Commander

Defending Earned Benefits Hallmark of VA&R Program

Not Forgotten

Each fall, Indianapolis honors the memory of Indiana’s Armed Forces personnel still Missing in Action or held as Prisons of War with ceremonies on the steps of the Indiana World War Memorial on Veterans Plaza downtown. Here, the Indianapolis Choir and the 38th Infantry (ING) Band perform the prelude to the ceremonies and dignitaries, including Mayor Bard Peterson (left foreground) await their turns at the microphone.

Forgive Me

Grateful American Seeks To Heal Wounds Of Vietnam

Dear Hero, I was in my twenties during the Vietnam era. I was a single mother and, I'm sad to say, I was probably one of the most self-centered people on the planet. To be perfectly honest, I didn't care one way or the other about the war. All I cared about was me—how I looked, what I wore, and where I was going. I worked and I played. I was never politically involved in anything, but I allowed my opinions to be formed by the media. It happened without

Editor’s Note: The following open letter was forwarded by Hoosier Legionnaire Gordon McClure, Service Officer at Greenwood’s American Legion Post 252. Written by a contemporary of most Vietnam Veterans, it reflects on the writer’s opposition to the War, her gradual realization of the profound effects of the War on her generation, and her feelings today. Those who are touched by the letter and who may wish to respond can send their responses to Vietnam Letter c/o the Hoosier Legionnaire, 777 North Meridian Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204. We will forward them to the author.

my ever being aware. I listened to the protest songs and I watched the six o'clock news

Service & Legislative Update

and I listened to all the people who were talking. After awhile, I began to repeat their words and, if you were to ask me, I'd have told you I was against the war. It was very popular. Everyone was doing it, and we never saw what it was doing to our men. All we were shown was what they were doing to the people of Vietnam.

My brother joined the Navy and then he was sent to Vietnam. When he came home, I repeated the words to him. It

Continued on page 7

Department Office Hours Shortened; Clients Advised to Make Appointments

Department Service Office

December Business Hours

The Department Service Office will be closed Friday, December 21 and Monday, December 24, 2007, through Tuesday, January 1, 2008 in celebration of the Christmas and New Years Holidays.

The Department Service Office will otherwise be open each Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. during the month of December. Appointments are necessary for client visits. You may contact the Department Service Office by calling our new direct number of 317-9163605; calling a long distance toll free number of 1-888723-7999, extension 3; faxing us at 317-226-6645; or by using the following e-mail address: vsohickj@vba.va.gov.

VA Rescinds Order

Barring Accredited Service Officers From

Changing Addresses

Last month the VA Office of General Counsel issued notification that accredited service officers could no longer change client addresses with the Department of Veterans Affairs. VA has since rescinded that order with the following message from Cheryl Waldow, Chief, VA Direct Services, Compensation & Pension Service:

“Effective immediately, the e-mail dated November 1, 2007, subject: Powers of Attorney – Changes of Address, is rescinded. Please notify all Veterans Service Center personnel who could potentially be involved with a Change of Address request from a Power of Attorney through a Veterans Service Organization to resume local post practice with respect to these requests.

We have discovered a potential conflict between our Regulations and Procedures and a Frequently Asked Question citation. Further, we are in the process of clarifying our statutory responsibility with respect to representation as stipulated in 38 USC 59015904. Until we reconcile our policy with the Office of General Counsel, stations should resume their past practice in this area…”

Editor’s Note: The Service and Legislative Update is prepared monthly by the Department Service Officers. It will appear in this space each issue from now forward, replacing the Rehab-at-a-Glance Column. Note that because of deadlines and publication schedules, some information included in the update may be outdated by the time you receive your copy of the Hoosier Legionnaire. If you are uncertain, contact Department headquarters.

Disability Benefits Commission

Releases Final Report:

The federal government established the Disability Benefits Commission approximately three years ago to study VA’s existing benefits system and make suggestions for improvements. The Commission’s October 3, 2007 final report contained 113 recommendations. Several of the Commission’s priority recommendations include:

• Completely updating the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities within the next five years starting with the criteria for ratings post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury (TBI) and other mental disorders;

• Establishing a holistic approach to PTSD including compensation, treatment, and vocational assessment, with re-evaluation every two to three years to ensure the effectiveness of treatment and encourage wellness;

• Prevent abrupt termination of Individual Unemployability ratings when veterans are once again consider employable;

• Increasing compensation rates by 25% to compensate for quality of life and other non-work related effects of severe disabilities;

• Increasing Special Monthly Compensation for certain profoundly disabled veterans;

• Eliminating the ban on concurrent receipt for all military retirees and US service members who are separated from the military due to service connected disabilities, and eliminate the military survivors benefit plan (SMP) and VA’s survivors Dependency and Indemnity (DIC) offset;

• Make sure the military refers veterans found unfit for duty to VA for a disability rating;

World War I veterans founded The American Legion in 1919 on four strong foundational pillars: a strong National Defense, Children and Youth, Americanism, and Veterans Assistance and Rehabilitation (VA&R). In doing so, these war veterans created a way they and future generations of veterans could continue serving and strengthening America, while concurrently protecting and caring for one another.

War veterans and Legion members are not a selfish lot. That’s why three of the four Legion foundational pillars are all about keeping America strong, taking care of our children, and promoting patriotism. Some might ask why do we even need VA&R programs? Won’t a grateful nation make sure veterans receive the care and compensation they earned? The simple answer is, our VA&R programs are very much needed.

Politicians conveniently forget about veterans’ sacrifices and needs after the battle has been fought. This is especially true when redirecting tax dollars in other ways are more favorable to local constituents and may help in the next election. American Legion VA&R programs help elected officials remember those chosen to defend freedom for all Americans.

Government leaders often have differing opinions concerning the needs of American veterans. Abraham Lincoln’s 1865 opinion is probably the one most notable: “[t]o care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow and his orphan…”

Another otherwise very popular president voiced a somewhat different opinion about veterans in 1934 – and, unlike President Lincoln’s comment, you won’t find this

John Hickey Department Service Officer

one engraved on VA’s Central Headquarters building in Washington DC: “No one [merely] because he wore a uniform must therefore be placed in a special class of beneficiaries over and above all other citizens. The fact of wearing uniform does not mean that he can demand and receive from his government a benefit no other citizens receive.”

President Roosevelt must have really thought that the “war to end all wars” had already been fought and the need for others to reach veterans status in the future was no more. A few years later, however, The American Legion reached even this president and convinced him to sign what is arguably the most important piece of veterans’ legislation ever to become law, the Serviceman’s Readjustment Act of 1944, more commonly known as the GI Bill of Rights.

Up until 1989, the executive branch of government, through the Veterans Administration, had full control over veterans benefit laws. VA was its own judge and jury, and benefits which Congress meant for veterans were often arbitrarily and capriciously denied without recourse. Legion VA&R activities work to help solve this injustice by introducing the Veterans Reassurance Act into Congress. This action paved the way for the establishment of the United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims.

Since then, judicial review has overturned many VA deci-

sions, with the result that veterans received millions of dollar in benefits they would have otherwise not have received. Many of these court decisions have also made it much easier for other veterans to receive the benefits that they rightfully deserve.

American Legion’s VA&R actions also initiated and independent study of illnesses caused by Agent Orange exposure. This eventually led to court action forcing VA to pay Vietnam Veterans and their survivors millions of compensation dollars VA had previously denied.

There are many VA&R success stories none the least that of helping individual veterans win benefits each and every day that they would have not likely otherwise been granted.

The Legion will not, however, rest on its successful VA&R achievement history. At this very moment, the Legion is working for mandatory funding of the VA healthcare system, a 100 percent repeal of VA compensation/military retirement pay offsets, and many other veterans benefit issues.

American Legion members can take pride not only in their honorable wartime era service, but their continued service to America following their active duty discharge. American Legion members have a sprit of volunteerism and service shown while participating in National Defense, Children and Youth, and Americanism programs. Members, however, sometime forget about the Legions’ VA&R services. While serving others, please don’t forget yourself. The Legion’s VA&R program is here to serve you, and it starts with local post service officers and local post VA Voluntary Services Representatives.

• Improving the claims cycle by establishing a simplified and expedient process using best practices and maximizing use of information technology.

More information about the Veterans Disability Benefits Commission can be found at: http://www.vetscommission.org/pdf/eReport_prepub_9-27.pdf

Theses are recommendations only that may or may not become law or policy.

VA Flag-Folding Recitation Ban

Complaints about religious content initially led to a ban on flag-folding recitations by Veterans Administration employees and volunteers at all 125 national cemeteries. During thousands of military burials, the volunteers have folded the American flag 13 times and recited the significance of every fold to survivors.

For example, the 12th fold glorifies “God the Father, the Son and Holy Ghost.” The National Cemetery Administration first decided to ban the entire recital at all national cemeteries. VA officials have since clarified the Department’s policy about recitations made while the U.S. flag is folded at the gravesite of a veteran.

“Honoring the burial wishes of veterans is one of the highest commitments for the men and women of VA,” said William F. Tuerk, VA’s Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs.

“A family may request the recitation of words to accompany the meaningful presentation of the American flag as we honor the dedication and sacrifice of their loved ones.”

Traditional gravesite military funeral honors include the silent folding and presentation of an American flag, a 21-gun rifle salute, and the playing of “Taps.”

Gulf War Syndrome

Continued from page 1

to a different type of health problem, however. About 25 percent of Gulf War veterans have been affected by the condition known as Gulf War veterans’ illness. It is a complex of multiple physical symptoms—typically including chronic headaches, memory problems, widespread pain, and other abnormalities—that cannot be explained by familiar diagnoses. This condition appears to be unique to Gulf War service; it has not been documented in studies of veterans who served in Bosnia or the current Iraq War.

Consistent findings from multiple research studies indicate that Gulf War illness is not the result of combat or psychological factors, as some have stated. Evidence points, instead, to hazardous substances encountered by troops during the 1991 Gulf War. These include, most prominently, a group of chemical neurotoxins to which many veterans were exposed.

According to Dr. Lea Steele, Scientific Director of the federal Research Advisory Committee on Gulf War Veterans’ Illnesses, “In years past, it was common for government officials and healthcare providers to speculate that Gulf War

veterans’ illness was caused by stress.

“This view has not been supported by the many studies that have now assessed Gulf War veterans’ illness in relation to events of the 1991 Gulf War. Our committee’s detailed review of these studies found no connection between combat and Gulf War veterans’ illness, and that Gulf War veterans’ illness was not caused by psychological stress. We do know that in some situations, psychological trauma and stress can cause long-term problems. But the data are very clear that this does not explain Gulf War veterans’ illness.”

Rehab Fund Tops $9,000, Competition Heating Up

Competition for the Dale Kuhn award honoring the top District in contributions to the Rehabilitation Fund is heating up, with more than $9,000 already on the books. Three posts are credited with $8,500 of the total so far, but plenty of time remains for districts to get into the running for this prestigious Department Convention Award— and knock off the all-time champion First District.

Herbert Kuhn Post 253 in North Webster has propelled the Second District into the lead with a contribution of $6,500, while the First District’s Post 168 and the Ninth District’s Post 89 follow up in second place with donations of $1,000 each.

For purposes of the competition, all contributions from American Legion individuals and posts within a district are combined to determine the district total. (SAL contributions are not included in the district total.) The award winner is determined by dividing the total contributions by the total number of members to determine the contribution per capita.

Here are the contributions to date:

• American Legion Post 253—$6,500

• American Legion Post 89—$1,000

• American Legion Post 168—$1,000

• First District—$431

• Fall Conference Darts for Dollars - $325

Contributions can be made directly to the Commander, mailed to the Department, attention Bernie Ashley, and can be presented on the platforms of Department conferences.

Variety Is The Spice of Legion Life In Indiana

Mid-Year Review Tells The Tale

During any American Legion year, the activities in which The American Legion Family participates are many and varied, and demonstrate the level of commitment and the depth of interests represented by American Legion members and their families. With the end of 2007 in sight, we pay tribute to the year now coming to a close, beginning in the upper left:

A.) The Department’s 2007 American Legion Baseball Champions from Rockport Post 254.

B.) Southern Vice Commander Danny Rice, before his election, strolls thoughtfully across the grounds of the Indiana Veterans Home.

C.) “Save the Eagle” stopped by Department Headquarters not long ago with a magnificent specimen of the national symbol.

D.) Legion riders and their distinctive gear are becoming more evident at Legion functions.

E.) Indiana’s National Executive Committeeman Darrell Hansel and his ever present smile.

F.) Legion Day at Knightstown Home is a festivel of fun and patriotism.

G.) 11th District Commander Steve Barnett and members of Wayne Post 64 welcome home troopers from the 38th Infantry Division Support Command.

H.) National Commander Marty Conatser draws a bead during simulator target practice at the Department’s 2007 Fall Conference.

I.) Banners like this one helped welcome home the troops during Post 64’s fete.

J.) Family members joined the troops for the welcome home dinner.

K.) Commander Somerville addresses Legion Family Members during one of many informal gatherings at the Fall Conference.

L.) The Commander and his JSSP Chairperson, Ida May Jewell, discuss the rules at the 2007 JSSP competition at Knightstown home.

Commander’s

Program Participation And Publicity Can Grow Legion

Like most of my fellow Department Officers, I want to take this opportunity to wish all American Legion Family members warmest best wishes for a happy and prosperous Holiday Season. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukah, or any other faith-based holiday, it is surely in keeping with our motto – “For God and Country” – to acknowledge our gratitude and dependence on our Creator at this magical time of the year.

While the holidays and cheerful giving are on our minds, I hope many of you will take a few minutes to make a contribution to my special project for this year –the Child Welfare Foundation.

Because the CWF makes grants to organizations that communicate and educate on matters important to our nation’s children, the gift you give can go far beyond what you might imagine. Already we have collected early $9,000, but much more is needed. When you give, you will not only help many children, but also be recognized in the April Hoosier Legionnaire for your generosity.

Those who have already contributed are the SAL, $5,000; Post 253, Post 168 and Post 89, $1,000 each; Fall Conference football raffle, $679; and fines from the conference, $22.

The approach of the new year has traditionally been a time to glance back at things accomplished and look forward to things to come. When I do that, as your Department Commander, nothing more often comes to mind than the state of our American Legion programs.

The view in either direction is a mixed bag.

We offer to our communi-

Auxiliary News

Tom Somerville Department Commander

ties a nearly unlimited range of programs and activities designed to assist, encourage, train and educate our fellow Americans. The sponsorship of such programs is the best way to serve our communities and, at the same time, recruit like-minded patriots into our midst. I am afraid we have done better in at some times in the past than we are doing today.

As a candidate, I traveled around the state with a simple goal in mind: I wanted to increase post participation in the community and youth programs. I believe that our programs have the potential to increase membership if our members will only promote them in the media. All that is necessary is to tell the newspaper that as a post, you sponsor a team, send delegates to The American Legion’s Hoosier Boys State, conduct an Oratorical Contest, or work with local schools in Americanism and Government Testing, for example, and the reaction is likely to be “Wow! I thought all you did was sit around on bar stools.”

It is not only the recognition and respect of the community that you will earn, but also the admiration of your peers. Our department launched the Community Involvement Award two years ago; to date, only two posts have bothered to participate, one in the first year, and that same post and another in the second year. Only a cynic would believe

Honoring America’s Veterans A Priority, Often A Pleasure

that these two posts are the only ones in the state who are conducting community programs. The reality is, many of you are, but few of you are talking about it. It is time for that to change.

One activity that does not need to change, is our Nursing Home and Hospital Visitation program. In that, along with our Auxiliary and SAL partners, we are unexcelled. But we do that almost in the dark. Only the institutions we serve and the men and women we care for know the thousands of hours we devote annually to this cause. Such visitations alone, if properly reported on the Consolidated Post Report Form, can be of immeasurable help in sustaining our standing in Congress and justifying the special status we enjoy as

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Point It That Way

Documentary Unveils Little-Known

WWII Battle To Retake Alaska Island

can soil from the invader.

My column this issue deals with an outstanding new documentary film produced by a young man from South Bend, Indiana. Matt Radecki, a graduate of the very prestigious film school of the University of Southern California, has produced an award-winning film documenting the only invasion of U.S. soil during World

War II. The film, Red White Black and Blue, has been and will continue to be shown on PBS network at various times.

Stephen W. Short Department Adjutant

This film takes two veterans of the American invasion to retake the American island of Attu from Japanese forces as they retrace their bitter experiences in one of the most dangerous climates in which to fight a war. Weather and the Japanese provided a formidable enemy to the American forces as they struggled to take back Ameri-

I’ve watched the film and it is a wonderful tribute to the American veterans who fought in that barren land over sixty years ago. I would recommend the film not only to all veterans but to all Americans including students in our middle schools and high schools. While the format of the movie is similar to other documentaries honoring our former soldiers, this film attacks a little known but savage

struggle during the scores of battles fought during WWII. Very little has been written or produced illustrating the battles on and around Attu Island and this work is one that needed to be done. And, I will add, it has been done right and pays the proper respect to the men who fought there. I would recommend that you visit the film’s website featured on our website (headlined Japanese Invasion of Alaska 60 Years Later) and consider purchasing a copy of the film to give to your local schools. The film would also be a valuable addition to your Post’s archives of film and written history.

Time To Make Goals A Reality

Honoring our veterans is always our priority, and it was an added pleasure for me to be able to participate in the Veterans Day Parade. The people who came to watch were amazing.

tinue to prepare meals and help the veterans and their families in their communities.

Judy Butler Auxiliary President

As we drove the Auxiliary car the veterans in the crowd kept thanking us. I wanted to tell all of them “Thank You,” because if they had not served our country we would not be the great organization that we are.

As we approach the holiday season our Auxiliary will con-

Season

I want to take this time to thank the Legion for inviting me to attend Vice President Dick Chaney’s visit. He was at our World War Memorial in downtown Indianapolis and it is always an honor to attend a ceremony at the Memorial.

Harley & I also want to thank SAL National Commander Raymond Giehll Jr. for his invitation to his homecoming, held at Post 64 in the 11th District.

As always, we are working for “Team Unity”.

I want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

On behalf of the 35,000 members of Indiana’s sons of the American Legion I send everyone best wishes for a safe holiday season and successful New Year.

Six months has passed us by, and we’ve kept pace with the challenges of years pass. Now comes the period in our Legion year where we as a family must work together to bring the goals set in the summer 2007 a reality.

I realize times are a bit tough: higher taxes, higher fuel costs, high or no medical care and cost, high unemployment. With those issues

being a concern of all people, we must enhance our methods of securing the charity dollars and recruiting new members as well as retaining our current members into our organization. My request for $108,000 for the known charities truly sets a challenge for us, but I know we will give our best efforts.

Using the new charity form introduced at the Fall Conference, will help get your communities involved. They were sent out in the last mass mailing by the Detachment; if you don’t have them, ask your SAL District Commander for a copy or two.

Our goal for 36,000 members is still on the light side of the potential here in Indiana. We have the chance to match one for one by asking our family and friends to join, teaching them the values on which this great organization was founded. We are still in our 75th Anniversary Year, so let your programs be known by all. Send them to our webmaster at www.in.sal.org.

Our SAL National Commander’s special project this year is that every member of the Sons of The American Legion on May 17, 2008, do something special for a veteran or group of veterans. That is something we as the largest support organization to veterans should be doing on

a daily basis. Let’s show this country and the veterans we still believe in their sacrifice. If not us, then who?

I’ve traveled to many places this year in Indiana, and the hospitality has been wonderful, I wish to thank all those who have invited me into their lives, homes (both personal and post), to the Legionnaires, Auxiliary, and SAL members that saw to my comfort and safety. Truly, this is a family affair. I ask that when you finish reading this please share it with the membership of the SAL in your post, since they do not receive this newspaper. Together we can make Indiana second to none. May God bless.

“Maintaining Contact.”

Offers Many Opportunities To Reach Out To Less Fortunate

The seasons are changing again and according to current weather forecasts we are going to abruptly move into a colder and more wintry existence. While hunters head for the woods and fields, the colder air causes the rest of us to assemble our fellowships indoors. The days grow shorter and the warm glow of lights and the promise of heat draw us indoors.

Wherever people gather there seems to be food and fellowship. Many cultures have special religious celebrations to mark this season. Nationally we gather to observe a time of Thanksgiving to remember the graciousness of our God’s providence. The bounty of the harvest brings food in abundance and we come together with family and friends to

Norris Keirn Department Chaplain

share our love and concern for one another. Of course Chanukah and Christmas follow with New Years extending the experience to more than a month of special occasions.

As is write this article I am on the threshold of our Veteran’s Day remembrance which will be extra special for me since it falls on Sunday and will be reflected in our worship service. I think about all those who have made great sacrifices in the past so that we may enjoy the prosper-

ity and freedoms that we now have. At our church we are making a display table to honor family members who have served and are serving. Pictures through the generations appear with a variety of memorabilia. The wars of the past century are linked together with our current conflicts. We are mindful of gifts of service to God and country.

It is good to begin this season with a time of reflection on the giving of oneself to others. Gatherings of people and exchanges of food and gifts are only token expressions of what lies beneath. The truer depth of meaning lies in the expressions of one life touching another. We create events and times where these expressions may surface and be shared with others.

For those who have spent lonely holidays in war, distant duty stations, and far off college campuses the richness of our current gatherings deepens. For those of us who have family members in those distant places or who have experienced losses by death or the fracturing of family, the pain of that separation will surface and make itself known. As we experience the joy of fellowship in every gathering, we also remorsefully reflect on those who will not be gathered with us.

Perhaps, in the experience of the season, God elicits images of giving from prophetic scriptural testimonies to the secular marketing ploys. Acts of kindness and charity seem to arise in each of us. We become more keenly aware of

those in need, the sick and the lonely. God’s Spirit calls us out of our self-awareness into other-awareness. Our needs and wants yield to those that others have which surpass our own.

Through these days ahead let’s take on an “attitude of gratitude!” Perhaps we find humanity at its best and also at its worst as we take our eyes off ourselves and visibly are made aware of others. Our hope is that through God’s grace we may share from the bestowal of our gracious bounty to bless others in expressions of our love and concern. We can lift others up to experience God’s grace, mercy and love.

It is my hope and prayer in this early winter season of gatherings and remembranc-

es that each of us will do our part to reach out to others to share the love and joys that God has revealed to us. May your expressions of giving come from the bounty of your thankfulness! Let us remember those in far off places, those who are alone, the sick and those in need. Let us be grateful for opportunities to both give and receive expressions of God’s love for us and for others!

For this very reason, you must make every effort to support your faith with goodness, and goodness with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with endurance, and endurance with godliness, and godliness with mutual affection, and mutual affection with love.

“Weather and the Japanese provided a formidable enemy to the American forces as they struggled to take back American soil from the invader…”

Chaplain’s Corner

Department Commander Tom Somerville prepares to sight down the barrel of one of the powerful air rifles used in the Legion’s Junior Shooting Sports Competition, as one of the team coaches gives him some important pointers – like where the target is. Moments later, the commander scored a near bullseye, and he has the target to prove it.