2008 February The Hoosier Legionnaire

February 2008

A Call To Action

Says Membership Is The Business Of Everyone Who Wears A Legion Cap

By National Commander Marty Conatser

I have been fortunate enough to rise through the ranks of The American Legion. I remember serving as a post commander before moving on to membership director at the district, division and department levels. At the national level, I've chaired the Membership & Post Activities Committee and the Legislative Commission.

Last August, you demonstrated your confidence in my

Gaming Gets Attention

Regulatory Agencies, Meetings Highlight

Mid-Winter Conference

Highlighted by special presentations by the Indiana Department of Revenue and the Alcoholic Beverage Commission, the annual Mid-Winter Conference attracted more than 500 Legion, Auxiliary and SAL leaders to the Indianapolis Marriott Hotel East late last month.

Presented as an education and training opportunity, the Mid-Winter Conference dispenses with the general session and focuses rather on expanded committee and commission meetings designed to provide more indepth education than that offered during the Spring and Fall Conference.

The Department of Revenue briefed Post officers and club room managers on changes in charitable gaming rules either proposed or implemented with a direct effect on non-profit organizations.

Among the most significant change was the rule limiting bingo operations to three per week.

The rule has been interpreted to mean three sessions per week per organization per location. That is to say, at any given Legion building, the Legion could operate three games per week, and the Auxiliary could operate three per week, provided that workers, operators and other elements are completely separate.

Another issue confronting charitable gaming operations is the looming challenge from a proposal to allow pull tabs in for profit establishments. No action has yet been taken on the proposal.

Future conferences will continue to provide information concerning these and other regulatory changes.

The ABC provided routine information on the rules and regulations with govern the

National Commander: ‘Some Of Us Have Lost Our Way’ On The Road to Membership Growth

Martin Conatser National Commander

commitment to this organization by electing me as your national commander. While the scope of my leadership is much larger now than it was when I led Post 102 in Deland, Ill., my responsibility to membership has not changed. After I take my red cap off and replace it with a blue one, it will still be my business.

You see, membership is the business of everyone who

wears a Legion cap. As members of this organization, we are stakeholders. We have a vested interest in seeing The American Legion flourish. We succeed when we successfully lobby Congress to do what is right for our veterans and service members. We succeed when we are running the programs that we have been sponsoring for nearly 90 years -- programs that benefit the children of America, veterans' families and our communities. We succeed when we give our members real value and worth for their membership dues.

However, we can't accomplish all these things without healthy and growing numbers. Without men and women to

administer programs, young men miss out on American Legion Boys State and American Legion Baseball. Veterans don't have a place to turn when they have questions about their pensions, benefits or disability claims. Without a robust American Legion membership, Congress is not as inclined to listen to us when we bring before it the issues and concerns of our fellow veterans and their families. Membership matters. But I think some of us have lost our way when it comes to bringing in new blood or holding onto longtime members through renewal. Volunteer leaders in The American Legion must always be thinking about membership and work-

ing to increase it. That means we must be enthusiastically telling other card-carrying Legionnaires about the strong value of membership. We are the only major veterans’ organization in the United States that gained members last year. Why? Because veterans in America believe the work we do is important. More people need to know about that work. Every national appointee is a leader in this organization, and every one of us needs to get re-engaged in the membership effort. Service is our mission; membership is our lifeblood. Service will always come first, but when our

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sale of alcoholic beverages by American Legion club rooms, to include the necessity for maintaining accurate guests records, limiting Sunday operating hours, and other provision familiar to long time Legion club operators.

During the Membership Committee meeting, the Department Adjutant briefed the more than 100 committee members and guests in attendance on the future of the Department of Indiana if current trends in membership continue.

Stephen W. Short told the members that the operating budget is tied closely to the annual membership recruitment and retention totals. Despite two recent increases in annual per capita and six consecutive balanced budgets, the Department faces a shortfall in income if the membership targets are not attained, he said. When that happens, “it becomes a choice between continuing to operate at the current level of professionalism and cutting back on materials, programs and staff support.”

Later in the meeting, Membership Chairman Bob Sutton reported on the target date membership turn-in conducted during the conference. He told the committee that more than 2,500 cards had been turned in, significantly exceeding his expectations. He reported being well pleased with the effort in membership so far and encouraged all membership workers to continue working once the 100 percent mark is achieved.

Reports from the four permanent commission -Americanism, Children and Youth, Internal Affairs, and Rehabilitation -- reflect the work of the many commit-

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Indiana Legislature Mulling Issues Of Concern To Legion

Despite the intense demand for property tax reform overshadowing the state legislature’s convening in January, several key issues and pieces of legislation dealing with veterans’ concerns are working their way though the chambers with varying degrees of success and all remain on the Department of Indiana’s radar.

Department officers meet weekly with other representatives of other veterans’ organizations and officials of

the Daniels administration to make sure no measures catch the veterans community by surprise. The bills, and the direction they may or may not be taking, include those affecting the Indiana Veterans Home, property tax exemptions for posts, and remission of fees for the children of disabled veterans.

Of primary concern to most veterans’ organizations is a proposal to change the

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“Saddle Up, Pilgrims”

This group of intrepid travelers, shivering in the early morning cold outside Department Headquarters, awaits the final boarding call for the bus to Springfield, Ill. where they were to join Legion, Auxiliary and SAL members from around the Midwest in commemorating the birth of martyred president Abraham Lincoln. The Hoosier delegation to the Lincoln Pilgrimage is traditionally the largest contingent from a single state to participate in the annual commemoration, which is conducted at Lincoln’s tomb. Commander Tom Somerville was unable to make the trip, but his official photograph made the picture.

Blue Star Salute To Honor Indiana’s Armed Forces

Hendricks County American Legion Posts are working together to sponsor a statewide “Blue Star Salute” to honor military personnel and their families on Armed Forces Day at O’Reilly Raceway Park on Indianapolis’ west side.

The state-wide event is the second such event sponsored by the Posts, but its scope has been expanded as a result of the Posts’ partnership with O’Reilly, according to Department Adjutant Steve Short, who is coordinating the Department of Indiana’s participation in the event.

“As many of you in cen-

tral Indiana know, the combined American Legion Posts in Hendricks County held a “Blue Star Salute” on Armed Forces Day last year, and honored hundreds of military personnel and military family members from Hendricks County during the event.

“I am pleased to inform you that those Posts have acquired O’Reilly Raceway Park as a partner in their 2008 Blue Star Program and the event will be held at O’Reilly Raceway Park this year -- and possibly for many years to come.

“With this larger venue, the Posts in Hendricks County are

extending their invitation to military personnel and their families throughout Indiana. This event will be on Armed Forces Day, May 17, 2008 from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.,” Short wrote in as memo circulated among Legion posts around the department.

Ralph “Zoc” Zoccolillo and Paul Morton are event coordinators, and they report the key to the success of the effort is “getting the word out to our military families.

“That is where all of you can help. Your participation in identifying and encouraging service members and/or

Sprinting For Home

With the Seventh Inning Stretch behind them, both the players and the crowd are ready for the final few innings in what has been an exciting membership game. The runner has rounded third base on his feet, easily beating the 75 percent throw, and sprints toward home and the one hundred percent mark. The coach (Membership Chairman Bob Sutton) and the manager (Commander Tom Somerville) urge him on, but he stumbles on the third base line, just short of the 93 percent target. Can he regain his footing for the final sprint to glory?

their families to register for the Blue Star Salute will give us the opportunity to honor their service and sacrifice, as well as help build the means for ongoing communications and support.”

Military personnel and their families should be registered with the salute committee in advance. Information requested by the committee includes the service person’s name, address (including APO or FPO), branch of service, and email address. Family contact also is required, and should

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Auxiliary Plans To Shower Troops With Gifts, Love; You Can Help

The Indiana American Legion Auxiliary has announced a special “Shower for Our Troops” to be held Saturday, April 5, 2008, as part of the ladies’ activities during the annual Joint Spring Conference at the Indianapolis Marriott Hotel East.

According to Lisa LifordBrown, Department VA&R Chairman, the ‘shower’ is being held to collect otherwise unavailable personal idems for American troops in the Middle East.

“We’re doing this because, first of all, we love our troops, and because there are so many things they need that they can’t get at the PX. “It’s not really a ‘shower,’

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Hoosiers

Active Programs: Our Reason To Be

The Department of Indiana is among the most active Departments in the conduct of traditional Americanism and Children & Youth programs. In addition to those sanctioned by National Headquarters, the Department has established and maintained such programs as Flag Education, Family Scholarships, Girl Scouts, Americanism and Government, and others.

Under the leadership of commander Tom Somerville, Americanism Commission Chairman Mike Miller and Children and Youth Commission Chairman Leland Baxter, the programs have thrived and grown.

According to the Commander, “These programs are the best recruitment tools available to us. I can’t tell you the number of times I have run into nonLegionnaires who have no idea of the different programs we sponsor.”

The list of programs and activities follows.

acy scholarships are intended for undergraduate study at a U.S. school of higher education. Scholarship recipients may reapply for the award. Application forms, as well as public-service announcements and ad slicks promoting the program, are available online.

American Legion Boys State/Nation

American Legion Boys State is among the most respected and selective educational programs of government instruction for U.S. high-school students. It is a participatory program where each young man learns first-

senators meet with elected officials from their home states.

Since its beginning in 1946, Boys Nation has seen many of its graduates elected to public offices, including the presidency of the United States and Congress.

American Legion Baseball

Since 1925, The American Legion has sponsored a nationwide youth baseball program. During those eight decades, millions of young players have enjoyed playing baseball. The American Legion expends millions of dollars each year for players to learn the importance of teamwork, discipline, leadership and good sportsmanship.

Deadline Drawing Near For HSB Delegate Forms

Posts who anticipate sending delegates to the 2008 session of Hoosier Boys State are being encouraged to return their delegate registration forms as soon as possible.

The Americanism staff distributed the forms to all posts in October, but the response has been slow, according to Susan Long, Americanism program coordinator.

American Legion Legacy Scholarship

As an unfortunate consequence of Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom and America's war on terrorism, many children of active-duty military personnel now belong to singleparent families.

In most cases, this also means their chances to attend college have greatly diminished. Children of military personnel killed on active duty are entitled to receive money toward college education, but it's not enough. The total survivor benefit for these children is slightly more than $37,000 for a college education. In today's dollars, this benefit will pay little more than half of what a college education costs in the most affordable situation. The gap widens when considering the cost of a college education in the future. The most conservative estimate is that costs will increase by 5 percent per year, meaning that in 16 years, the most affordable college education will be $105,800. Military compensation will not keep up with these dramatic increases.

For that reason, The American Legion established The American Legion Legacy Scholarship and has raised nearly $2 million since the program's inception. The scholarship is awarded to the children of U.S. military personnel who have died on active duty on or after Sept. 11, 2001. Scholarship applicants must be high-school seniors or high-school graduates. Leg-

The Hoosier Boys State registration deadline is March 15, 2008. The session itself will be June 1421, 2008 on the campus of Indiana State University in Terre Haute. Posts who did not receive forms or who have misplaced them can contact their district enrollment chairman or email Long at slong@indlegion. org.

hand the operation of his local, county and state government. Participants are exposed to the rights, privileges, duties and responsibilities of franchised citizens. The training is objective and practical, with mock city, county and state governments operated by students elected to the various offices. Activities include legislative sessions, court proceedings, law-enforcement presentations, assemblies, bands, chorus and recreational programs. Highschool juniors are selected by local American Legion posts to attend the program. The national version of the program is Boys Nation. Two representatives from each of 49 Boys State programs are called upon to represent their state at American Legion Boys Nation in Washington. There they are introduced to the structure and function of the federal government, with each delegate representing his state as a senator. The delegates caucus at the beginning of the session, organize into committees, and conduct hearings on bills submitted by delegates. Actual participation in the political process is highlighted throughout the week to include the organization of party conventions and the nomination and election of a Boys Nation president and vice president. The week of government training in Washington combines lectures and forums with visits to federal agencies, institutions, memorials and historical spots in and around Washington. During a visit to Capitol Hill, Boys Nation

February 2008

The HOOSIER LEGIONNAIRE is published bi-monthly by the Indiana Headquarters of The American Legion, 777 North Meridian Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204 Phone (317) 630-1391.

Periodicals Postage Paid at Indianapolis, IN and at additional mailing offices.

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POSTMASTER: Send address changes to HOOSIER LEGIONNAIRE, 777 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46204.

Thomas Somerville Department Commander

Stephen Short.........................................................Publisher

Hugh Dagley.................................................................Editor

Official publication of and owned and conducted exclusively by The American Legion, Department of Indiana.

Member: National American Legion Press Association and Hoosier American Legion Press Association.

Advertising Sales Representative: The Herald-Times, Bloomington (800) 422-0070.

Subscription Rates: $0.85 of each members dues goes for publication of the Hoosier Legionnaire.

Volume AB, Number 1 February 2008

Circulation 120,000

Printed by the Herald-Times, Bloomington, IN

Oratorical Scholarship Program

The purpose of the annual American Legion High School Oratorical Scholarship Program is to help the nation's highschool students gain deeper knowledge and appreciation of the Constitution. Other objectives include the development of leadership qualities, the ability to think and speak clearly and intelligently, and the preparation for acceptance of the duties, responsibilities, rights and privileges of American citizenship.

Scholarships totaling $48,000 are awarded to the first-, second- and third-place finishers in the national competition.

Support of Scouting

Support for Boy Scouts of America was established at The American Legion's first national convention in 1919. Today, more than 2,500 Boy Scout units are sponsored by Legion posts throughout the country.

Supporting Boy Scout activities is natural for Legionnaires, who draw upon their service-learned skills and experiences as veterans to help build character and positive traits in young Americans. Few other post activities generate more goodwill from the community.

Shooting Sports

The American Legion sponsors a program of marksmanship and gun-safety education for high-school youth.

As part of the program, The American Legion conducts a junior position air rifle tournament, which provides competitors an opportunity to test their marksmanship ability in competition with other junior competitors throughout the nation. The two winners in the competition receive $1,000 college scholarships provided by Sons of The American Legion.

Troop Salute

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but we thought that would be a fun way to conduct it.

The Auxiliary has prepared a list items that units, posts, and squadrons can bring to the conference and deposit at the collection point in the Marriott’s Atrium. The list includes:

General Assembly

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state agency responsible for directing and controlling the Indiana Veterans Home in West Lafayette.

The Department Executive Committee passed a resolution at the recently concluded Mid-Winter Conference which supported legislative efforts to change the managing authority from the Indiana Department of Health to the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs. Two days after the Mid-Winter Conference, the Indiana Senate Committee on Homeland Defense and Transportation & Veterans Affairs met to consider Senate Bill 250 which would make that switch. SB 250 passed out of committee 11-0. The Department has been assured that Governor Daniels will endorse and support this effort and the bill appears to have solid bipartisan support.

Another introduced bill has many American Legion Posts concerned. House Bill 1281 could threaten the prop-

Conference

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tees subordinate to the four, most of which met during the Mid-Winter Conference.

A complete summary of the committee and commission reports are on Page 3 of this issue of the Hoosier Legionnaire.

The next conference

• Baby wipes

• Hand Sanitizer (travel size)

• Phone Cards

• Game Cartridges -X-Box, PS2, Computer -If you are not sure about these, ask a kid

• CD’s (current, popular music)

Blue Star Salute

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include the name, address, telephone number and email address of the family member who is to be contacted.

Registration can be done on the salute’s website, www. hcbluestar.org, or by mail c/o the Hendricks County Blue Star Program, 375 S. State Road 267, Avon, IN 46123. Additional information is

erty tax exemption currently enjoyed by veterans’ organizations. The conventional wisdom is that this bill will probably not be successful, but the Department of Indiana is watching closely to be sure neither HB 1281 nor any similar legislation calling for property taxes for nonprofit organizations slips through.

Discussion and deliberation on Senate Bill 194 continues. The bill proposes to make certain disability rated veterans eligible for college tuition fee remission under the Child of Disabled Veterans benefit. The State’s Veterans Organizations are not opposed to the legislation, but are concerned about longterm ramifications of certain provisions under consideration.

House Bill 1067 would require the governor to issue a proclamation ordering United States Flags in Indiana to be flown at half staff upon notification that an Indiana soldier had died. The flags would continue to fly at half-

scheduled for the Department is the annual Joint Spring Conference of the Legion and Auxiliary, during which both the Sons of The American Legion and The American Legion Riders also will convene. An anticipated highlight of the Spring conference is an appearance

Still Remembering

then mayor-elect Greg Ballard place the ceremonial wreathe in the frigid waters of the river. Post 249 is the official host of the annual ceremony.

staff until the day of the service member’s funeral.

Senate Bill 321 is the annual effort to call for free lifetime hunting, fishing and trapping licenses for all honorably discharged veterans. The outlook for passage is not good. Legislators are reluctant to pass any bills that would forego state income at a time when tax cuts are so high on the agenda.

Finally, concurrent resolution SCR0004 would officially encourage schools to conduct Veterans Day ceremonies, while another concurrent resolution, SCR0018, would urge the U.S. Congress to appoint an independent counsel to investigate the POW/MIA issue.

Legionnaires are encouraged to remain informed regarding this short session of the Indiana General Assembly, particularly as the session nears adjournment. The end of the session is often marked by legislators’ efforts to add last minute riders to popular bills about to be approved.

by the leading Candidate for National Commander, and other special guests speaking during the opening general session.

Registration for housing at the conference will be accepted at the Indianapolis Marriott Hotel East beginning, February 22.

available from Zoccolillo at (317) 750-4265 or Morton at (317) 340-8554.

Adjutant Short has encouraged Legionnaires around the state to “support this wonderful public celebration of today’s military family. They are tomorrow’s American Legion. God bless them for their willing service, boundless patriotism and selfless sacrifice.”

• DVD’s (new movies and TV series)

• Paperback Books

• Avon Skin So Soft

• Girls Scout Cookies (selling began in January)

• Good, thick Black Boot Socks

Alternatively, LifordBrown said “If a Unit, Post or

Squadron wants to donate money instead of shopping, they can make the check payable to the Department Secretary/Treasurer.”

Additional information is available from Liford-Brown, Department VA&R Chairman at (812) 876-9159 or by email at lisaliford@yahoo.com.

A Call To Action

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membership lags, we are limited in the great work we can do. They go hand in hand.

Everything we do results from a strong membership. That's why it must be our special project for the rest of this year. National Emergency Fund donations will come in -- if we have the members.

American Legacy Scholarship Fund donations will come in- if we have the members. Everything falls into place when we look at our ranks and see a growing, enthusiastic group of men and women dedicated to serving America. We are nearly halfway through the membership year. Join me in a push to keep our numbers moving in the right direction.

The Americanism Commission met at 4:00 p.m. Saturday, January 12, 2008, in Salon B of the Marriott Hotel during the Midwinter Conference.

Chairman Mike Miller opened the meeting with a salute to the colors. Roll call disclosed the following members present: Chairman, Mike Miller; Vice Chairmen, Burt Tiemersma and Jerry Jordon; Committee Chairmen: Richard Motsinger, National Security/Foreign Affairs; Martin Dzieglowicz, POW/MIA; Ron Kizer for Larry Horvath, SAL.

Those absent included National Liaison Rep John Hayes; Shannon McCroskey, Bowling; Gary Stiles, Golf; and Larry Korvath, SAL.

Baseball Executive:

The rule regarding helmets states that coaches must wear a helmet when out of the coach’s box; coaches must stay in the coach’s box until ball is in play; and coaches must go out the back of the coach’s box, not towards the plate. A new rule regarding sliding will be the same as what is used in college.

Aquafina is sponsoring a program called Pitch, Hit, and Run for children 7-14 year old. This program is similar to the Punt, Pass & Kick program. Visit Aquafina.com for more information.

A motion was made to accept changes from December and new helmet rules from National. A motion was made to have no Indiana player rosters sold in the future. Both motions were approved.

National Regional game will be at Chillicothe, OH. More information will be provided at the Spring Conference.

Bill Jackson from the Department Legislative committee needs to be contacted to help bypass the ISHAA and have state legislature determine player eligibility. Jim Quinlan from the National headquarters stated that all other programs i.e. Babe Ruth agree with American Legion for bypassing ISHAA.

Baseball

During the National Conference it was determined that players are to have patches, not screen print, for identification. Player insurance will stay the same. Form 1 (the player roster) will be done online. There is no insurance coverage for side trips.

The rule regarding helmets states that coaches must wear a helmet when out of the coach’s box; coaches must stay in the coach’s box until ball is in play; and coaches must go out the back of the coach’s box, not towards the plate. A new rule regarding sliding will be the same as what is used in college.

All insurance forms and entry fees need to be mailed to department headquarters by March 31. The place of residence for a player as of March 31, will determine what team he plays on.

The Committee would like to get a resolution to department to bypass the ISHAA and have state legislature determine player eligibility. Some of the players at Rockport along with a few other schools were penalized for going to the National Regional and World Series.

Regional bids are now closed. Motion was made for Plymouth Post 27 to host state final. A bid of $7,500.00 was made. A motion was made to review Regional bids at the Spring Conference. B-Team state bids to be sent in February. The dates will need to be listed for the B-Team.

Golf

The 2009 bid forms will be sent from Department soon.

Vice Chairman James Tracey suggested that any post wishing to submit a bid form should get a list of the rules governing the tournament.

Tournament Manager Robert Miller discussed the activities for the 2008 tournament on June 21 and 22. All motels are at the Auburn exit on I-69. The post hosting the tournament is 5 miles west of Garrett, IN. The golf courses are in Auburn, IN. The Auburn Post will be open for breakfast. The top prize is $70.00. The entry on the website will be corrected. There will not be a shotgun start.

National Security/ Foreign Affairs:

The rules for Military Person of the Year were reviewed. The district chairmen picked up the notebooks for the Military Person of the Year award. The judging for Military Person of the Year will be June 8, 2008.

Carol Sissom, a local author, was invited to speak about the books she has published. The latest book is Hand Over Heart. Hand Over Heart is about romantic letters written everyday from a WWII soldier to his future wife. The book’s plot is based on overcoming personal struggle and problems for the solider during WWII.

Gary Steinhardt and Richard Motsinger will work together to write a resolution to include the Indiana Guard Reserve to be eligible for the Military Person of the Year.

Colonel Bragg of the Indiana Guard Reserve told the committee about the 50 troops that helped with the tornado cleanup from Nappanee. Colonel Bragg also discussed some of the duties at Camp Atterbury with regard to deployment and re-deployment of ING troops assigned in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Colonel Bragg is the state recruiter for the Guard Reserve. The Guard Reserves are unpaid volunteers that save the state quite a bit of money.

POW/MIA

A motion was made to write a resolution, from the Fall 2007 Conference, renaming streets after POW/MIAs.

Marty Dzieglowicz will talk with Judge Advocate Joseph Bumbleburg to see if a resolution needs to be made to rename the streets. The Committee will talk with Adjutant Steve Short about printing something in the Hoosier Legionnaire for the Posts on renaming streets or giving names to new streets for POW/MIAs. Each Post may possibly be able name a street after a KIA/MIA/POW with the new resolution.

S.A.L.:

Sixth District Chairman Rodney Strong reported the 6th District SAL Commander is currently being investigated for eligibility. A meeting was conducted between Rodney Strong, Hugh Dagley, and the Post Commander to determine the eligibility for SAL membership.

Four resolutions were read. The first was to endorse Harrell R. Sorrels for the honorable office of the Detachment of Indiana Alternate National Executive Committeeman for the term of 2008-2010. Secondly, a resolution was read to change the SAL Detachment Indiana Convention to the same time and place as the Department of Indiana Convention. The convention would be moved from June to July. Thirdly, a resolution was read to nominate Michael Arend for the office of Sergeant-at-Arms for the Detachment of Indiana SAL for the term 2008-2009. Lastly, a resolution was made by Post 82, Squadron 82 to endorse Roland Baker for the office of NEC of Indiana for the term 2008-2010.

Adjournment

There being no further business to come before the commission, the meeting was adjourned in proper form.

The Children & Youth Commission met at 4:30 p.m. Saturday, January 12, 2008 in Salon C at the Marriott Hotel during the Midwinter Conference. Vice Chairman Al Pulido opened the meeting in proper form. Roll call disclosed the following members present: Vice Chairman Rodney Strong, National Liaison Representative James Delaney; Committee Chairmen: Americanism and Government Larry Kupchik represented Robert Bach; American Legion Family Scholarship Charlie Wier; Boy Scouts Stan Gatewood; Boys State Enrollment Terry Pierson; Children & Youth Bob Ripley; Flag Education/ Etiquette Ronald Taylor; Girl Scouts Dan Lee represented Gail Galich; Junior Shooting Sports Ida Jewell; Knightstown Home David Sharber and Oratorical Fred Langley. Chairman Leland Baxter was ill.

American Legion Family Scholarship Committee

A motion was made and approved to request $2000 from the general scholarship fund in light of the Department Executive Committee denying permission to solicit donations of $100 from all posts, units, and squadrons for the scholarship fund. The following members will meet to select department scholarship winners at the Spring Conference on April 5, 2008: Charlie Wier, Coleman Sumerall, Clyde Colgrove, Oscar Lopez and John Lloyd. A meeting room will be secured for two hours to review the scholarship applications.

Americanism & Government Committee

The Junior Americanism and Government study guide, prepared by the Commander’s Assistant Tammy Krebs, was approved and will be made available to partici-

pating schools. It will also be posted on the Department of Indiana’s website. The committee discussed scores and participation as well as the need for teacher involvement at the high school level. Younger students who participate in the Junior Americanism and Government program seem more sincere.

The following students were chosen as state winners: Jill Fitzgerald 10th Grade at Griffith High School sponsored by post 66, Zachary Kisfalvsi 10th Grade at Griffith High School sponsored by post 66, Ty Shrontz 11th Grade at Pioneer High School sponsored by post 60, Jazzmin Humphrey 11th Grade at Pioneer High School sponsored by post 60, Jacob Layer 12th Grade at Pioneer High School sponsored by post 60, and Dipa Patel 12th Grade at Lakeland High School sponsored by post 215.

Boy Scouts Committee

Judging of the Eagle Scout of the Year applications will be held at the Crossroads Council Boy Scouts office, 1900 N Meridian St. Indianapolis, on March 15, 2008 at 9:00 a.m. Applications are to be submitted to the district chairmen by February 1 and forwarded to Chairman Gatewood by March 1.

Each district reported on potential candidates for the Eagle Scout of the Year. Pins are still available to each district to sell for $3.00 each to supplement the scholarship fund. To date, pin sales have totaled $903.00.

A Tony Dungy autographed football and an autographed Coach Dungy book Quiet Strength will be raffled at the Spring Conference. Tickets will be sold two for $5.00.

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reHaBiLiTaTiOn

The Rehabilitation Commission met at 4:30 p.m. Saturday, January 12, 2008, in Salon E of the Marriott Hotel during the Mid Winter Conference.

Chairman Dick Jewell opened the meeting in proper form. Roll call disclosed the following members present: Chairman, Dick Jewell; Vice Chairman, Rick Hudson; Commander’s Representative, James Koutz; Employment, James Piepenbrok; Homeless Veterans, Robbie Robinson; Indiana Veterans Home, Gary Danekas; Nursing Home, Cecil Brummett.

Those absent included Vice Chairman Walter Bode; National Liaison Representative, Ted Stenger; General Hospital, Ray Nunweiler; and Veterans Assistance, David Heath.

It was decided to not read the minutes from the previous meeting, due to the fact that they were published in the Hoosier Legionnaire.

Employment Committee

The committee accepted nominations and voted on employment awards. The employer of the year for a large company is Superior Engineering from Hammond. The medium company for employer of the year is No-Sag Products from Kendallville. The small employer of the year is Lynn Electrical from Portage. The employer of order workers is Raydar and Associates from Odon. Work-One Northeast from Auburn was chosen for Employment Service Local Office. There were nine nominations in which five awards were chosen.

General Hospital

General discussion of what

members are doing in their various areas of responsibility. General consensus that program is proceeding as always.

Homeless Veterans

Motion passed to donate $1,000 to Hope house in Richmond. Motion passed to donate $500 to Church of Christ of Our Shepherd via Johnson County Service Office for Local Homeless Veterans Assistance. Motion made and passed to donate a total of $1,500. There were two donations accepted. Both were from 5th District, totaling $353. Diane Brown, Department of Veterans Affairs, Homeless Veterans Outreach Chair, spoke.

Indiana Veterans Home

Joe Fox of the Indiana Department of Health spoke in regards of proposed legislation SB250 that would transfer responsibility for Indiana Veterans Home to Department of Veteran Affairs. Jerry Horn spoke, The home’s director also spoke concerning recent inspections. $13,650 was spent on six new mattresses.

Nursing Home

No motions were made. No funds were requested. Two questions were then brought up: If a patient in the nursing home has motorized cart, is the nursing home in charge of the upkeep or does it fall on the family? (For Example: Replacement of batteries) Is there a list of nursing homes statewide for each county?

Adjournment

There being no further business to come before the commission, the meeting was adjourned in proper form.

inTernaL aFFairs

robert newman chairman

The Internal Affairs Commission met on Saturday, January 12, 2008 during the Mid Winter Conference at the Marriott East Hotel in Salon D at 4:30 p.m.

Commission Chairman Robert Newman opened the meeting in proper form. Roll call disclosed the following members present: Chairman Robert Newman, Vice Chairman Mary York, American Legion Riders, Keith “Dawg” Jones, Community Involvement, Eric Baggett, Convention Contest, Allen Connley, Legislative, Danny Rice, Public Relations, Jeff Carroll.

Roll call disclosed the following members absent: Vice Chairmen David Morrow; National Liaison; John Pipher; Convention Contest, James May; Firefighter/Law Enforcement/EMT, John Wrolen; Membership, Bob Sutton; New Post Development, Mike Davis; Religious Emphasis, Norris Keirn.

Commission Chairman Robert Newman and all other Chairman present had a lengthy discussion regarding meeting attendance. All representatives present expressed concern and frustration at the lack of interest and attendance by the appointed Chairmen to some of these Committees. It was 100 percent in agreement from all present that something must be done and these appointments must be taken seriously.

Chairman Newman called for Committee reports:

American Legion Riders

Each district reported on their activities. Chairman Jones thanked all chairmen for their participation, leadership and great work. The Indiana American Legion Riders has about 53 or 54 chapters and 765 nationwide. There was some discussion about the Florida ALR and the problems they are encountering. Resolution 35 has passed, which is the first step regarding vests and patches. The next step is to work with other states to establish a National Constitution and By-Laws.

The state rally will be in conjunction with the Cruise International in Angola “Welcome Home Vets” rally. Hotels in the surrounding areas will be discounted for the event. The “Welcome Home” rally is a big event with local and national participation. Chairmen are asked to promote participation in this rally in their districts.

Community Involvement:

The minutes from the Fall Conference 2007 were read and approved. Post 365 has not received last year’s scrapbook back from the department office. Chairman Baggett had the committee review the winning scrapbook from last year and encouraged additional entries for this year.

The question arose as to whether or not other media forms could be used besides scrapbooks, i.e. PowerPoint presentations. The committee would like to try other forms of showcasing post activities. The 6th District Chairman will try to promote the program in his area.

Convention Contests:

Previous meeting minutes were approved. There were questions as to when entry forms would be mailed and whether a contest would be held with only one color guard team. Susan Long will be asked to put the contest forms on the website and mail to anyone who needs it.

Firefighter/ LawEnforcement EMT

Leland Baxter had a heart attack and will not be at the Midwinter Conference.

The Law Officer/Firefighter/EMS books were passed out to the following Districts: 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, and 10th. The books for the 9th and 11th will be

mailed to the District Chairmen by Department.

Wilfred Kocher questioned the number of pages in the Law Officer books and wondered why it was not the same as Nationals. A motion was made by Clifford Stephens to change the number of pages from 25 to 18 to match National. On the rule page for Law Officer, line 14 needs to change from 25 to 18 pages along with page two of the application. Close of books will take place at the Lafayette Home for final turn in of Law Officer/Firefighter/EMS books.

The committee will meet at the Spring Conference.

Legislative

The minutes from the Fall Conference were read. A motion was made to accept the minutes as read. The motion was seconded and passed.

Chairman Rice reported approximately $3.7 billion in emergency VA funds are to be released by President Bush.

The Indiana General Assembly might consider taxing non-profit organizations. The committee will monitor whether this becomes a bill.

There are four bills concerning veterans but no specific details are available as the General Assembly just started. Senate Bill 250 was introduced by Sen. Weiss to merge IDVA and the Health Department at Indiana Veterans Home. A resolution was made and passed to support this action.

The spring conference will feature a guest to speak about getting out the vote.

Membership

Chairman Sutton introduced Department Adjutant Steve Short who briefly addressed the Committee. He spoke on the importance of membership dues and how there is a shortfall in Department of Indiana’s budget.

Assistant Adjutant Hugh Dagley addressed the Committee. He called for an organized effort to turn around the declining membership issues. He informed the Committee that the slide in membership has called for a reduction in Department Advertising budget.

Second District Commander Bruce Steffen offered a suggestion that credit card renewals offer automatic renewals and can be automatically debited until member cancels. Commission Chairman Mike Miller suggested that we send out membership teams to go door to door, as they used to in the past.

Chairman Sutton read a letter from the National Commander asking each National appointee to recruit one new member each. He also requested that each District Commander carry membership supplies on them at all times. There was a brief discussion on the District Headquarters Post program. He is asking each Chairman to turn cards around quicker to Department Headquarters.

There was a brief discussion regarding the Air Force Reserve members being able to address unit on membership.

There was a discussion regarding feeding information to the news media to get the word out. It was also suggested to put a link on the Department’s website for members to be able to pay online. Hugh Dagley will research and report back to the Committee.

New Post Development

The minutes from the Fall Conference were read and approved.

Chairman Davis asked for a report from each District present.

6th District reported that Post 40 is still trying to figure out where to place members

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americanism

mike miller chairman

cHiLDren & YOUTH

Leland Baxter chairman

Dick Jewell chairman

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Don sales commander

Greetings from the Brown Bombers of the 1st District.

The Winter Conference was a great time for seeing fellow Legion members from across the state and exchanging ideas. I was pleased so many members were able to make Conference from my District. The Sons of the Legion had a few new faces there this time from Squadron 20 and 261. This is a sign of the Legion Family working together.

We had one of our largest turn outs in years for the Oratorical contest and that is thanks to our District Chairmen Dan Buksa and Rich Seto.

Speaking of these two Legion members their Posts also excel in working the American Legion programs. Hammond Post 16 members under the leadership of Commander Dan Buksa ventured forth to seven local elementary schools just before Veteran’s Day to educate the children why America honors its veterans. The veterans from the Post have educated over 6,000 elementary students in their area since 2001. The Legion joined with their Auxiliary Unit 6 and sent out over 100 Auxiliary applications to raise interest in the Auxiliary at the Post.

Over at Whiting Post 80 we were treated to dinner. Working the Legion program of Law and Order their Post invited the local police, firefighters, EMT’s and city judge to be recognized and thanked for their service to the community. On

February 27, 2008, the members of Post 80 will be having a Memorial Program honoring Richard Quattrin, Past Department Commander.

The District Bowling Chairman Joe Rivich and Larry Horvath organized a great two day week-end tourney. Fun was had by all when I rolled the first ball and yes, it was a gutter ball. I haven’t bowled in 40 years and proved it!

Miller Dunes Post 279 hosted the District Four Chaplain service on February 10, 2008 and Allied Post 369 has an Americanism dinner in February scheduled. The entire 1st District American Family will participate in the Fruit Distribution Day at Indiana Veteran’s Home in March and our monthly visitations to Hines VA Hospital continue for our hospitalized veterans.

Several posts have started work on the spring baseball sign-ups.

We are trying very hard to work the programs that Commander Somerville outlined at the new District Commanders’ orientation back in July of 2007.

Membership continues to be our biggest challenge and I can say that we just keep trying. I want to thank Department Membership Chairman Bob Sutton and Northern Vice Commanders Jack Cook and Gary Steinhart for their support and encouragement. We look forward to them visiting our District meetings.

God Bless you and God Bless America.

Bruce steffen commander

One of the great gifts that life can give to anyone is friendship of others. I have been blessed with very dedicated officers and chairpersons, who have made this year so enjoyable. Some would say we are over the hump! I say this District is just beginning to realize its’ full potential.

I foresee our committees to have candidates for Law Officer, Fire Fighter, Educator, Eagle Boy Scout, and Emergency Medical Responder at the State Convention. We should have a good enrollment in the Hoosier Boy’s State and Flag Etiquette Testing. We have a very good candidate for the Zone Oratorical Contest and, hopefully, a contender for the State Oratorical Contest.

I thank all Legion Posts who have nominated these candidates.

As the year progresses towards the State Convention, there is still much work to be done. I ask all members at the Post, District, and County levels, of the Legion to keep focused and work together for a common goal.

Our Membership Chairman, Bob Rettig, has worked so hard to keep the District on the right path to close of books in June. As you know, the District was assessed one more member per our fiftyone Posts close of books last year. This made all membership goals very attainable for each Post. Basically, we are asking you to sign up all who were signed up last year plus one more.

With the printing of this publication in February we have only four months to finish signing up these members for goal. I do feel that this District will meet or exceed our membership goal. I think that membership should be the business of everyone who belongs. You, as a member, do have a “stake” in seeing the success of our programs by bringing new members in or retaining longtime members through renewals. Everything

Continued from column 2

serves as Sons of the Legion Commander of Squadron 94.

On April 19, 2008, Rochester Post 36 is planning a “Building Dedication” of their new facility. The District will be losing the Porter Post 503 and another Post is thinking of turning in it’s charter. While this is not good news, it is good to see that other Posts are getting stronger by building new and better Post Homes. Fowler Post 57 is starting to think of replacing it’s Post Home, and DeMotte Post 440 is looking into remodeling it’s building. As the year goes by, it is always

good to know that there are others who share your ideas of making the Legion more successful. Remember Department Commander Tom Somerville’s motto this year is “Team Unity.” Let us all try to live by this motto.

In January a large contingent of Armed Forces personnel from Indiana was called to active duty for Iraq. Please remember the families of these service men and women while they are deployed. Most of all, when they return to us, do not let one be treated as Joel Wyatt was. May God be with all of our Armed Forces around the world.

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richard richardson commander

Happy New Year from Commander Richardson and The Third District.

The entire District was busy during the last few months with Veteran’s Day programs, Thanksgiving Dinners and Christmas parties for children and adults too numerous to mention.

The Third District conducted its annual shopping spree for the Knightstown Division, serving 18 boys once again this year. This year nine boys had made the trip. The spree began at Bourbon Post 424 with a pot luck luncheon and the start of the pool tournament. Then it was off to Plymouth Wal-Mart and KMart where each of the boys shopped with the $150 they were given to spend.

They had no problem picking out clothes, games and food to take with them back to the home. Following the shopping spree, the tournament resumed and the boy winner went head-to-head with Post 161’s Leroy Bowers who, for the 17th or 18th year in a row, lost to the boy winner.

to the inmates. Good job Post 130! Post 27 in Plymouth has been busy as well. In September they took clothing, books and magazines to the Indiana Veteran’s Home and conducted a flag disposal ceremony. In October they took another load of clothing, books and magazines to the Indiana Veteran’s Home and had a photo session for the ‘Shop with a Cop’ Christmas gift program.

In November, they were involved in two Veterans’ Day programs and Commander Keiser gave a speech and presented a flag to the residents of Miller’s Merry Manor. Good work Post 27!

Continued from column 4

of the entire membership. It took the dinners and dances, and it took more people than just a handful to make those programs work.

Where has all of that Legion spirit gone? Here we are with no gaming machines, so we need to take a look back and come up with new ideas and work the old ones as well. This is really the time for teamwork.

OK. I'll get off my soap box, but you have got to admit its worth thinking about.

On January 22, 2008, I had the honor of presenting two checks to two of our returning hometown heros. They weren't so lucky in returning home. They found that they no longer had jobs for one reason or another and they needed help with the upkeep of their families. The American Legion came through for them. The checks came to them through The American Legion and Coalition to Sa-

lute America's Heroes. What an honor to do so.

On the February 23 the District had one of their fundraiser. Thanks to all of those Legion members who purchased tickets outside the District. Your help was greatly appreciated.

As I was coming through the chairs in the District I heard so much about the Lincoln Pilgrimage. This month I was able to make the trip and it was everything that I heard that it was.

It was something that I wish all Legionnaire's could attend. The fellowship, the things we all have learned in the past, just reminds us of the great American history.

I had no idea of how many invitations I would get for American Legion Post to honor the 89th birthday celebration. I decided that there are just not enough days in March, and I find it impossible to make all of the celebrations.

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this great organization does is from a strong membership.

Commander Bruce Steffen attended the Logansport Post 60 meeting January 22, where Commander John Randle presented Post 60 Member Joel Wyatt a check from the National American Legion and Coalition to Salute America’s Heroes.

I had the opportunity to talk with this young Iraq Veteran. How rewarding it was to hear how honored Joel was to serve our country. Joel sustained injury to his hearing from a mortar blast, and he is suffering from post-traumatic stress (PTSD). This can be treated.

What is more disturbing to me, a fellow veteran, is the way Joel has been treated by the workers at his old place of employment. They knew that Joel was jumpy and jittery. Some employees would slam pallets to make Joel jump and hide under conveyor belts. Mind you, these are the same people whose freedoms and jobs were protected by Joel serving in the U.S. Marines. Joel has since left that employment.

We have directed Joel to the County Service Officer; hopefully, Joel will become more stable in his return to civilian life. To all the Joels out there, a good place to get started on the right path is the local American Legion Post. I hope your Post will accommodate these returning heroes.

I look forward to the upcoming month when many Posts will have Legion Birthday Parties planned; I hope you will participate.

Hats off to Logansport Post 60 becoming debt free on December 10, 2007. Valparaiso Post 94 was recognized as an “Outstanding Community Service Organization” on January 28, 2008 by Indiana State Representative Greg Simms, District 10. Post 94 participated in the “Valentines for our Veterans” program. Greg also

A great time was had by the mass of folks from the Third and the boys, and a special thanks to our host, Bourbon Post 424.

Post 295 welcomed home an Air Force couple just back from their tours in Iraq. Sean Carr and his wife Jacalyn met when they were stationed together in Las Vegas and were married. They spent the next 22 months apart with Sean serving a second tour in Iraq and his wife serving her first at a different location in Iraq.

Sean and Jacalyn are both Staff Sergeants and are headed to Germany for the next four years. Sean has served for ten years and his wife four.

Sean was recently awarded the Bronze Star and just happens to be the son of Rhonda Carr, the Third District nominee for Military Person of the Year who was selected the Department Military person of the Year in 2006. She retired from the US Navy after serving more than 30 years. Good luck to Sean and Jacalyn.

Post 130 recently donated $1,000 to Joy Elementary School in Michigan City to purchase winter clothing for students in need. Post 130, which is located in the Indiana State Prison, raises money by selling donuts, pizza and other assorted food items

Koselke-Mayfield Post 403 was very busy in December. The Toys for Tots campaign kicked off in November and ended December 23. The Post collected more than nine full boxes of toys to be distributed throughout LaPorte County. The response this year was as good as or better than last. On December 18, a contingent of officers from the Post flew to Washington, D.C. to distribute Christmas cards handmade by students of the Wanatah School 4th grade (Mrs. Russell’s class) and other Legion members to the soldiers at Walter Reed Hospital.

Since the hospital has a policy requiring that any mail be individually addressed, the only way to get them there was in person. Over 35 members of the Post also relinquished their challenge coins received on the 60th anniversary so that they could be distributed also. The response at the hospital was the best Christmas present anyone could ask for.

Bristol Post 143 made a little girl very happy this past Christmas by coordinating efforts to see that five-year-old Sarah Sharp received a computer for Christmas. Sarah has an inoperable brain tumor and is currently undergoing chemotherapy at South Bend’s Memorial Hospital pediatric oncology unit. Sarah has no guarantees and wanted computer; through Post 143’s efforts, a Dell computer was presented to her on December 15 at the Post home. That day is one that Sarah, her family and the Bristol post family won’t soon forget.

New Carlisle Post 297 members Everett Dobbins, Jackie Badics and Skip Parmley gave a class on flag etiquette to a Girl Scout troop. More classes are scheduled in the future.

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al myers commander

Good things are happening in the Fourth District. Membership seems to be coming in very slow but we are still working the plan.

As I make my way around the District and watch how Posts are combating the lack of membership, I have to think back to when I was a child and the many nights I spent in a Legion Post at all of the dances and Post activities

The Huntington Veterans Council under the direction of Council President Dave Ritenour, hosted a Deployment send-off to honor members of the 293rd “D” Company at the Huntington North High School Gym. Community, family and friends were all gathered in the gym to salute these Hero’s about to debark to defend our beloved Country. A High School band played in the background as members of the community interacted with one another with mixed emotions.

American Legion 5th District members were present supporting this important and proud but sad moment. The school children lead us in saying the Pledge of Allegiance with American Flags being held by members of the Patriot Guard lined up behind the podium all the way across the gym floor. During the evening they showed on a big screen pictures of the deploying troops at home with their family plus other photos of these Heroes.

Each troop was presented with a blue star to give to their family to hang in the window while they are gone. The Company Commander was given a banner for his Company to carry into battle which was signed by all those that came to wish them God Speed. It was an emotional evening for all. The Sgt. Major called off the names of each deploying troop as they stood together in formation by heart without any written down list.

A true Sgt. Maj., he knew each and every troop under his command. As their name was called,each troop snapped to attention, answered, stepped forward and presented themselves to pick up their blue star banner and ditty bags which had been prepared for them.

The Mayor of Huntington, a Vietnam combat veteran, told the troops to kick ass and don’t take names. The Company Captain spoke and caused some not to have a dry eye when he, having about to be deployed himself, took the moment and thanked the Vietnam veterans for having served and mentioned that the Vietnam veteran did not get their just due upon returning from that war and just how much this send off meant to his troops and himself.

American Legion Post 85 and I were talking to a VFW member, a former paratrooper in Vietnam. He mentioned that he had never joined the Legion and mentioned how nice Post 160 looked. Our conversation then turned to getting this veteran into the Legion. Huntington American Legion Post 7 Commander, Joe Beemer, who just got back from a tour in Iraq himself, was planning on getting him an application and help him into joining the American Legion and into Post 160.

5th District Meetings coming up are on the following dates: February 16th at Jonesboro 95; March 15th at Dunkirk 227; April 19th at Wabash 15; May 17th at Roanoke 160 (Post Everlasting). For those Legionnaires that attend, see you at the meetings; for those that do not attend, why don’t you come to a District Meeting and see what goes on and put your 5 cents into whatever is being discussed? Contrary to what you might think, the blue hats run the Legion and what you have to say carries a lot of weight. We need new ideas to help the Legion maintain. I think those new ideas you might have for the Legion in general are exactly what you have been sitting around at the Legion talking about for probably a long time. And that just maybe your idea that you feel in your heart might work for the betterment of the Legion is exactly what our American Legion needs to put into play to keep our beloved Legion up and running and managing our programs for the kids and for the vets. Commander Comerford and the rest of the 5th District Officers and Members look forward to you coming to the District Meeting and welcome you. Bring some fellow Legionnaires with you. Get a designated driver and share some quality time with some of the finest people on earth, your Comrade Legionnaires and Legion family of the SAL and Auxiliary…

my parents attended. I can remember the fun they had as adults, and yes, the fun I had as a child.

I don't remember the gaming mechanics, or the tickets back then. But what I do remember is a large group of Legion members working hard to keep the Post operating and raising money to do so. Back then, it took team work

Continued

He also spoke about how communities and families suffer when troops are deployed. After listening to the Captain and the Sgt. Maj., I’m confident that the troops are in good hands going into harm’s way. We here in the 5th District wish each and every one of them God Speed and they will be in our prayers each day till you return.

Just prior to the ceremony, Syd Poriss of Huntington

Wabash Post 15 Commander and District Bowling Chairman Jack Lynn put on a terrific 5th District Bowling Tourney on January 27 which was attended by one of the largest number of bowlers in quite a while. Commander Lynn wants to thank all of you who came to Wabash and bowled. Thank you for helping support the 5th District.

The National Anthem was played and then Commander Comerford rolled the traditional first ball while everyone in the bowling alley watched as his ball rolled down the length of the alley and the tourney was underway. Now then, if you are wondering how the ball ended up, all I

Hoosier Legionnaire

5 mike comerford commander

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Phil Hutson commander

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday.

I would like to thank everyone who has helped with getting the trailer, especially Kenny Graham, John Julian, and all their helpers. At this time, we have purchased a trailer for the 6th District. I want to thank everyone who donated to this project. I want to especially thank Vice Commander T.A. Garcia and Sgtof-Arms John Julian for their hard work and time they put into this task. Without them we wouldn’t have gotten this job done. Thank you both, and thank you all.

And I want to thank the Legion family, the men, the Ladies Auxiliary and the Sons for their help and donations. We still need more donations

to complete the inside of the trailer. Our district membership is suffering badly and we need help, so please help us to try to reach our goal. This project takes everyone’s help.

I would like to see more of the Legion family at the district meetings. This is where you can get the latest, up-todate information about the Legion family and the programs that we are working on. Because of the weather, I was unable to get pictures of the trailer to put in this column, but I hope to have them in the next time. Again I want to thank everyone on this project. And again I hope more Posts can attend our next District Meeting.

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7

Herb Hoffman commander

Greetings from the “Fighting Seventh.”

Congratulations to Princeton Post 25, Odon Post 293, Owensville Post 51, Somerville Post 462 and Worthington Post 106 for achieving 100 percent status in membership at their respective Posts in January.

The 7th District made great strides in December and January with is membership numbers and we have now moved into third place in the Department. Based on numbers January 29th numbers, we are only .037 percent, or 42 cards, out of first place behind the 2nd District. And it should not go with out saying that this was accomplished by you, our 7th District members. Our 7th District members have risen to the challenge and want to see our District back in its proper place in the Department. And to a 7th District member “Proper Place” equates to first place in the Department and a positive example to all of our value of membership retention, and recruitment, and the necessity of a growing American Legion.

Our American Legion in the 7th District and the Department of Indiana has no choice but to grow. We do not have the option of the status quo or a slow decline to oblivion.

Our responsibilities are to our members, veterans, and their continued care as needed. We must always safeguard this responsibility because this is the very reason we were founded for in 1919. Our forefathers at the end of WW I knew that they could only rely on themselves to protect their rightful needs from battle injuries and service related injuries.

They knew that a government made up of civilians who never endured the horrors of war would ever be able to understand, or care about their suffering and future medical and social needs. These forefathers understood the value of large numbers of membership in the newly formed American Legion. They understood that Congress would only listen to a large organized block of voters united by a common cause, and could vote them out of office if they didn’t listen to their grievances.

Our fathers and grandfathers who served in WW II benefited from this organized voting block with many benefits unheard of in their fathers’ day. Benefits to WW II veterans are the Gold Standard of veterans care. Benefits to WW II veterans, fought for by The American Legion and other veteran’s groups set the stage for all of the benefits we have today.

So what’s this got to do with our membership prob-

Break In The Action

Department Commander

Tom Somerville gather his district and department officers together for a photo as the first half of his year in office drew to a close. Following the holidays, the Commander and his team set about the serious work of building membership and promoting the programs and activities of The American Legion. For more on the Commander’s efforts and interests, see his message on page 10.

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mel Vinson commander

lems today in the 7th District and Department of Indiana and the need for retention and recruitment? Congress is still made up of a very large percentage of lawmakers who never served in the military, or let alone went to serve this country during war in the military. And this is why membership in the American Legion 7th District, Department of Indiana and our National organization is so important. We must constantly be on guard, and energize our efforts to reach our goals. Only by growing can we be able as a voting block to have the attention of our lawmakers. Only by growing can we protect the rights and privileges of not only our fathers, but also ourselves, and our children.

“Children,” you might ask?

Yes, In America we have proud family traditions of military service to our country. During 2005, I served at Camp Atterbury as a representative of the 7th District American Legion with Russ Bensheimer, Dave Rook, Bill Clark, and Owen Stickles in the recruitment of new members. These potential new members were all young men and women who served their country in Iraq, Afghanistan, Bosnia, and other places overseas.

As I put on my presentation of why they should join The American Legion I would ask a very innocent question of my audience:

“How many of you had a parent, grandparent, or close family member serve in the military? Please raise your hand.

“Now keep your hand up and look around the room.”

The response was always similar. At least 80 to 85 percent had their hands raised. At that point I had their attention. They knew that just as their fathers, grandfathers, brothers and sisters served, so might their children. At that point, protecting veterans benefits became a family matter. And one way to present it is in the retention and recruitment of members. By reaching out in our District and the Department we can continue to grow our American Legion. And we will take that step forward to protect and promote veterans benefits, community, and children’s programs because that is what we believe in as American Legion members.

A special thank you must go out to Bloomfield Post 196

Ladies Auxiliary Chaplain Donna Heaton. Donna, with the help of other members of Bloomfield Post 196, gathered up over $1,000 worth of new clothing, blankets, and personal hygiene items for the Indiana Veterans Home at Lafayette. I was told that Donna was the real Ramrod.

I have always enjoyed reading quotes. Often when we search for the right words to express ourselves we find someone else has said just the right thing. I guess that’s why the greeting card industry works.

I found this quote with a message that I really felt was appropriate for all of us. Maya Angelou, a poet, educator, author, actress and renowned figure in contemporary literature wrote, “How important it is for us to recognize and celebrate our heroes and sheroes!”

Let’s not take the easy road and let our heroes and she-roes slip by unnoticed. A hand shake, a thank you or a comment of interest mean so much. Heroes come in all sizes and shapes. It’s not just the person that saves a life or performs with valor in the war. It is also the person that cares enough to be involved that sacrifices their time and energy for the good of others without asking what’s in it for me. A true hero or sheroe know what’s in it for them, they feel it in their heart every time they give to others.

Many of you know Irvin “Flop” Thomas and his wife Betty from Bonnie Sloan Post 28 and are familiar with his many years of volunteer service to veterans in the nursing homes. Flop told me recently what he and Betty do for the nursing home veterans in his area.

With the help of Legionnaires Robert Combs and Earl Wenzler, as well as a nonmember friend Jay Hoffman, Flop and Betty assembled gifts for seven nursing homes in the New Albany area at Veteran’s Day and Christmas. Ninety-eight veterans were remembered on both holidays with personal comfort items like socks, tissues, combs shave cream and razors, de-

odorant, tooth paste, brushes and shampoo. These items don’t seem like much, they are things we all take for granted every day.

To the veterans they are a bright spot in an otherwise often dismal day. Flop is the Post 28 Nursing Home Chairman and when you see him you know that Betty is somewhere close by. Their dedication to the nursing home program has brightened the lives of countless veterans over the years. They are a pattern for us to follow.

New Albany Post 28 Second Vice-Commander, “Beany” Smith, sent me this article for submission to the Hoosier Legionnaire. I thought the story it tells was definitely worth passing on:

Now That’s The Christmas Spirit

“On December 21st 2007 we had a group of people from the 8th district take a bus trip to the Indiana Soldiers and Sailors Children’s Home in Knightstown. But this was not just a bus trip and these were not just a group of people on a bus ride. These 37 people were on a journey to make a difference for the boys and girls living and attending school at Knightstown Home. The cost of this bus trip was a mere $20.00 per person. At today’s gas prices that’s a real bargain. That $20.00 helped to pay for the cost of the bus. But, because of the “The Free Enterprise System” bus company donating the bus we were able to donate $1125.00 to the Knightstown Home. I know the math doesn’t work out. You see we also had people that could not make the journey but donated their $20.00 to help make this project a big success.

“When we arrived at Knightstown, we were greeted

Continued on page 6

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milton Howard commander

Greetings from the Nifty Ninth!

I hope everyone and their families are healthy, happy and have that great ‘Can Do 9th District attitude’ in mind.

With spring just around the corner we need to start getting our Police, Firemen, EMT, and Educators of the Year selected at our Posts. It would be great to see each Post participate in some, if not all, of these programs. The Ninth District had one of the Department winners for the Educator of the Year last year. Let’s see if we can add a few more ‘People of the Year’ this year.

Our ‘can do’ attitude threw us into 1st place in membership at Mid-Winter Conference.

Membership chairmen Ron (west) and Al (east) and I would like to say a big thank you to each and every District

and Post officer and to each member for helping us get there. It's going to be a struggle to stay in the lead, with a couple of pesky Districts breathing down our necks. We know with our ‘can do’ attitude and all of your great help we can stay on top.

With our first place standing at Mid-Winter Conference, Al, Ron, and I won a trip to Washington D.C. for the Legion’s annual Washington Conference and Legislative Rally. The Ninth District will be represented well in Washington with the three of us, along with National Executive Committeeman Darrell Hansel and maybe Past Department Commander Lowell Sullivan there, too.

I would like to continue to thank all Posts in the District for their hospitality and friendship on our visits.

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10

Kenny Toll commander

Greetings from the Tenth District.

Our year is half over and we still have a lot of work to do in order to finish strong and to make sure all of the programs we have, receive our utmost attention. At Mid Winter Conference we had a very good turn out to all of the committee meetings. I hope all who attended learned a few tricks of the trade they can use in making our District one of the best for participation in the various contests and programs we support. Due to some adversity and road blocks some of your Legion Brothers and Sisters have had to work a little harder this year than in the past. I would like to take this time to thank all of those who have done a tremendous job of helping us stay on track for our membership and the 10th District. Without your dedication and hard work we would not be where we are today. Thank you very much.

Our membership is on a roller coaster ride at the moment but I believe we will prevail in the end. We have an opportunity to bring our membership up to the standard in which we were accustomed to a few years back. If every one of our members brought in a new or renewed member this month we can make a huge stride in retrieving any and all members who may have forgotten what The American Legion is all about. So I am asking all of you to help our District in its attempt to reach One Hundred Percent or maybe even more, so we can show them what they

have been missing, as well as letting them know that we have missed them.

When you get them to return, show them that you care, and give them a job that they may be interested in. You never know when one of them could turn out to be one of the best post commanders or other officers or volunteers that you have in the Post.

As most of you know we lost another Post Commander since our last article, John Johnson from Post 446 Daleville. He also was a past first Vice Commander of the 10th District, and worked very hard for the District and his Post for many years. Our thoughts and Prayers go out to all his family and friends. He will be greatly missed by all.

One of my programs this year is to help out the homeless veterans that are scattered around the state. So far this year we have raised almost three thousand dollars for this project. Without the help of all of the Posts in our District and beyond, And I better not forget my wife, since she sold the bulk of the tickets, It has been very gratifying to see the support we have received from you in this project. I do not believe we are done for the year as of yet. I am sure we will be out again, if not this project then maybe something else which needs our attention.

If there is anything I can help you with the rest of this year, do not forget that your District officers and myself will be more than glad to assist you in any way we can to make this year as successful as it can be.

DisTricT

11

steve Barnett commander

Greetings in the name of the 11th District!

I’m sure that my receiving the coveted Hugh Dagley award for last place in membership this fall gave everyone in attendance a great laugh!

Believe me: it holds a special place in my “to-do” book.

The 11th District is becoming increasingly busy with positive activities that will help promote the Legion and its memberships. Post 497 is having a “50-60 Dance” February 23, 2008, complete with a soda fountain, movies and music of that period. First lady Grace and I are scheduled to make an appearance as Elvis and Priscilla Presley.

Post 34, Broad Ripple, is in the process of rearranging its programs to appeal to more generations of vets and their families.

Post 249 was honored to present the colors at the grand opening of Super Wal-Mart in Indianapolis. Post 249 is also planning a bus trip to Evansville Post 354’s Commander’s Ball.

All of these efforts are helping to get the message out to the general public. Soon we will be hosting a special Public Relations Seminar for all

posts in our district. The goal will be to form a district-wide task force for the purpose of promoting the Legion and its programs. Stay tuned!

Also coming is hopefully our first district-wide Commander’s Ball April 12 at Post 64. Also, we’re in the process of organizing a bus trip to Washington, D.C. in June. Yes, we’re busy. Come and join the fun!

In closing, I must say that the loss of a comrade and colleague, Clarence (Bubble Gum) Glass, assistant Chaplin for the SAL detachment of Indiana and fellow Legionnaire at the Fall Conference, was devastating. He will be missed. I would like to thank 10th District members for their attempts to save his life and their comfort to all in our hour of grief. Lastly, I want to thank Legionnaire Marvin L. Boatright and staff, whose funeral service did a superb job for his homecoming.

An ending thought: Lest we forget, it takes both the black and white keys on the piano when one is playing the “Star Bangle Banner.”

God Bless you and God Bless America.

Bikers Gear Up For Legacy Run To Convention

The American Legion Legacy Run, an annual crosscountry motorcycle rally running from The American Legion’s National Headquarters in Indianapolis to the site of the National Convention, has opened registration for the 2008 event. The event will kick off at Indianapolis’ American Legion Post 64, marking the third year for the annual fundraising ride Information and online registration is available now at www.legion.org/legacyrun, or by contacting Bill Sloan, ALLR Coordinator, at 317-630-1321, by email at wsloan@legion. org, or by writing to The American Legion Legacy Run, PO Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206.

Eighth District

Continued from page 5

“As an unfortunate consequence of America’s war on terror, many children of our active-duty military personnel are now members of single-parent families,” Conatser said. “In most cases, this also means their chances to attend college have greatly diminished. Children of military personnel who die on active service are entitled to receive some money toward a college education, but it is not nearly enough.”

The American Legion Legacy Fund has already distributed $74,000 in critically needed scholarship assistance to students enrolled in college level courses since 2004, including $36,000 in 2007.

in the parking lot by some of the students. We had brought some gifts for the school in the luggage bays under the bus. You might have thought the bus was a modern day Santa’s Sleigh. After getting the bus unloaded we were all entertained by the Knightstown student orchestra.

played the part of the official photographer. I have to tell you that these students were so happy to see Santa. It was hard to fight back the emotions when one of the boys that had opened up his gifts came up to Santa, gave him a big hug and said “ thank you Santa for bringing me all these great gifts”. What a way to brighten a kids Holiday.

“We will be doing this trip again next year so if you couldn’t make it in 2007 start planning now to go in 2008 and help us make a kid smile for the Holiday. What a way to get in the Christmas Spirit.”

a little about the American Legion and what it does. Who knows it might even interest someone enough that they want to become a member.

“We encourage all interested Americans to register or donate directly in support of the run,” said National Commander Marty Conatser, “to help us help the children of our fallen heroes.”

Conatser will help kick off The American Legion Legacy Run with a national gathering of The American Legion Riders at the Post, 602 S. Holt Road on Indianapolis’ west side. The riders will depart Sunday, Aug. 17, 2008, and tour through Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico and Arizona to arrive at the site of the 90th Annual American Legion National Convention in Phoenix on Aug. 21, 2008.

The riders will journey for five consecutive days on the 1,800 mile route to make possible a college education for the children of their fallen comrades, who died defending our freedoms since the attacks of Sep. 11, 2001.

According to Conatser, the run raises the public’s perception of the honorable nature of military service and is “one way to show The American Legion’s deep appreciation for those who paid the ultimate price for freedom.”

The goal for 2008 is to raise at least $350,000 for The American Legion Legacy Scholarship.

“We will ensure that postsecondary education will be possible for these families,” Conatser said. “Providing for the children our military personnel have left behind is our civic duty, and an education is a powerful way to show our thanks.”

The commander encouraged motorcycle enthusiasts from all parts on the United States to join the American Legion Legacy Run either in Indianapolis or along the route.

“After the program the real fun started. The children went back to their divisions and the Santa “volunteers” reported to the administration building to don their seasonal attire. Five officers and past officers from the 8th district, Eighth District Commander Mel Vinson, Dave Sharber, John Bubala, Jeff Carroll Sr., and Ron Hanger all dressed up as Santa. Our Department Commander Tom Somerville was also a Santa and was accompanied by Department President Judy Buttler as Mrs. Clause. What a sight it was to see so many people dressed up playing a part to bring joy to these kids at Christmas. Each Santa was assigned a division residence hall to go to and hand out gifts to the students. Our group split up to follow our Santas around. I chose to follow Past District Commander Ron Hanger and

Mt. Vernon Post 5 Commander John Goode passed in December. We thank our Legion Family friends around the district and state who expressed concern and sympathy during this time. We received donations enough from Post 5 Legion Family members and friends to make a $500 contribution to Child Welfare Foundation in memory of John Goode during the recent Mid-Winter conference at Indianapolis. Thank you.

ing rooms for doctors, dentists, mechanics and many other professionals. The next time you find yourself faced with spending time in a waiting, room carry your most recently read legion publications with you and casually forget to take them with you when you leave. Black out your name and address with a marker if you wish to remain anonymous. Worst case, it will get thrown away but you would probably have done that after aging it anyhow.

On the brighter side, someone may pick it up out of curiosity or boredom and learn

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 PO Box 60 in Mt. Vernon, IN 47620. We need newsworthy Legion, veteran, community-related information. No gossip please, just news.

Children and Youth Commission

Boys State Enrollment Committee

Director Steve Bowman suggested recruiting high school band members as delegates. The program also is looking for additional counselors.

Internal Affairs Commission

Continued from page 3

before turning in their charter. They are following national guidelines for closing.

7th District reported Post 325 voted to close the post. All of the funds from the post will be put into a scholarship for the local high school. Most members of Post 325 are transferring to Post 103. District Commander Herb Hoffmann stated Morgantown has enough people and the demographics are perfect for starting a new post.

10th District reported there is still no movement from Post 55. Post 339 closed in 1994 and opened another post in 1998 and have been at 100% for the past 7 years with 88 members. There is a

Fifth District

Continued from page 4

Our 5th District Executive Vice Commander, Don Cole was busy passing out pull tabs while Wabash Post 15 Commander, Jack Lynn, was busy making sure everything was oiled and running smooth. And run smooth it did. Great Job Jack!! Everyone bowling seemed to have a great time on this winter day. Commander Comerford’s bowling team, “The Orange Blossom Special,” didn’t win any money but did have just as much fun as any other team, that is for sure. Afterwards, everyone was invited down to Wabash Post 15 for some sloppy joes.

The ole Post Home was filled to the brim with great people having a great time enjoying the friendship that goes along with Legion membership and participation. Past State Commander Ron Miller, who always attends our District Bowling Tourneys, and has done so for years, was observed rolling the ball down the alley enjoying himself.

Kokomo Post 177 had a couple teams entered and it was great seeing these gentlemen Legionnaires participate in our District Bowling Tourney having fun. And for you 5th District members who did not bowl, you missed a lot of fun and a really good time. Please try to get a team together next year and join your

District for some good clean fun. If you think you stink at bowling, rest assured, I claim that title hands down, so you have no need to be worrying about looking bad. So come on down next year and have some fun with the District.

Our own 5th District Auxiliary State Chaplin, Carolyn Cunningham, of Frankton Unit 469, had a nice article in the Auxiliary News. In it she said something that we all need to give some thought to. She mentions greeting each turning point in her life as an opportunity for new blessings and that God has led her to this point in her life. She quotes Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and he will make straight your paths.

Expanding a little bit on what she has written, we Legion members of all three of our families need to keep this in mind as we go about our business and dealings within our District and Posts. When we encounter a SNAFU with membership or with other issues, we need to step back, take a deep breath, and let our heart guide us in the direction which needs to be taken to solve the problem at hand. Do not allow pride, envy, greed, or self centered interests guide you in these matters.

Here in the 5th District we have some mighty fine Officers who would be more than glad to help assist you or your Post in helping to decide important matters if you were only to ask for their help and advice. Working together for the Goodof the Legion will most certainly only have

financial problem occurring with the post for plumbing and electrical. Ralph Perez suggested sending a letter to members letting them know of the expenses and that they need to have regular meetings, otherwise the post may need to close.

Public Relations:

A motion was made to approve the minutes from the Spring Conference as read. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously. Chairman Carroll reminded the committee the deadline for awards to be submitted is June 1. The following volunteers will judge awards: Jerry Stoner, Dean Leshinski, Jerry Jordon with Vonda Gar-

positive results for your Post, for our 5th District, and for Department and National. So do as Carolyn Cunningham does: treat each turning point as an opportunity for new blessings. Don’t let greed, envy, or self centered interests get in the way of doing what needs to be done for our Legion when problems crop up from time to time. Let’s all work together as a team. Let’s have “Team Unity “as our State Commander Tommy Somerville has stressed for us to do…

Our membership Chairman Pete Brannon and our Commander Michael Comerford continue to fight for membership and are doing a great job. The District slid down into the basement and when the full impact of being in the basement meant, i.e., carry THAT PHOTO around. Well, let me tell you, Jocko and Pete got on their horses and had a drive around and pounded on Post doors and turned in enough cards to bring the District up out of the basement in short form. They ask you to please continue to knock on the doors, use the phones, and make those contacts to get the members to renew their membership for the coming year. Don’t let these members die on the vine from lack of someone not taking the time to ask for their dues. It just takes you a moment or two to ask. Just Ask.

Don’t forget our Heroes whose eligibility dates are still open. They are all over the place either having just returned or leaving. Talk to them. Tell them about the Le-

Looking for something to do with your Legion publications after you’ve read them? We all find ourselves in wait-

ringer being an alternate. Judging will take place June 7, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. at department headquarters. Chairman Carroll asked for members input on Public Relations.

Religious Emphasis:

Ted Blevins was recognized by Chairman Norris Keirn for his exemplary job he did on the Four Chaplains Service. Motion was made and seconded to move the service to the opening of the General Assembly at the Fall Conference. Adjournment

There being no further business to come before the commission, the meeting was adjourned in proper form.

Continued from page 3 can say is you should have been there and you would know. Next year, show up with a team and find out how our 5th District Commander does when rolling out the first ball.

gion’s programs that are ongoing and tell them what the Legion has done for the Veterans over the years and continue to do now. Offer to assist their families left behind. Make sure they hear this from a face to face contact so they can look into your eyes and know you are not just talking the talk but are walking the walk to help them and their families. This I submit will go a long way toward getting a new member especially from one of our heroes who has not joined the American Legion yet….

And one final thought. At Mid-Winter Conference this year, at the Public Relations Session, which as a member of the Public Relations Committee I attend, the State Chairman, Jeff Carroll, mentioned that each Post should have a Public Relations Officer. I certainly agree with this.

I have felt for a long time now that our Posts are missing the boat in not getting out their events for the public to see and know about. Too often there is a misconception that the Legion is just a bar. The public and potential members could learn more about Boy’s State, the IVH, Knightstown, Oratorical, Flag Education, scholarships, benefits, color guards, awards, etc., by reading about it in the local papers or see it on the news. We have no reason to keep these nice things that we as a Legion do from the public. These are things we should be proud of and things that the public would be proud of also if they only knew.

Conference. Dale Schoch was recognized for his service since the flag education program began. The committee would like to meet from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Spring Conference to determine the state winners.

Girl Scouts Committee

The new website for The American Legion Hoosier Boys State program is www. hoosierboysstate.org. There is a link to this website from the state website.

Suggestions to improve the Boys State website can be emailed to the contact on the website. The HBS Communications Director, Jim Phipps, is working on an electronic newsletter to keep post and district volunteers as well as schools informed. The committee thanked Jim for his work on the newsletter and website.

April 1 is the deadline for cards to be at the department headquarters. District chairmen should let Susan Long know whether delegate packets should be mailed to the district chairmen or directly to the delegates. Chairman asked about the reservation letters, Chairman Pierson said he’d check with Susan and let them know. Jack Cook reminded chairmen to utilize other organizations to find funding for delegates.

It would be optimal to have 900 delegates attend this year. Discussion was held regarding making the application a contract with parents to recoup the $300 fee if a delegate does not attend. This matter would have to be discussed at the Hoosier Boys State Board of Directors meeting. Commander’s Representative and 8th District Chairman Bob Oeth suggested placing an article in the high school paper to promote Boys State.

Chairman Pierson suggested an interview sheet for all delegates for the same purpose. The program is always searching for additional counselors.

Children & Youth Committee

Chairman Ripley presented information about the temporary financial assistance program for veterans’ children. The Children and Youth Commission Chairman, Leland Baxter, had a heart attack but is doing well.

Educator of the Year applications are due to the department headquarters office by June 1. Each district reported on their progress in finding candidates for Educator of the Year. The Chairman reminded the committee to promote the Children’s Miracle Network and the Child Welfare Foundation at the post level.

James Hewitt, 3rd District Chairman, held a 50/50 raffle at his post to promote the Children’s Miracle Network. Inquiries were made about the effort to write a resolution to make Educator of the Year a National American Legion program.

Flag Education/ Etiquette Committee

Flag education materials were picked up in the Wilkie room or mailed to those unable to attend the Midwinter

The finance committee denied the request for $150 each year to cover transportation costs for the Award winner to convention. The Girl Scout Committee does not need to repay the $500 start up loan to department as it was not used. A motion was made and approved to submit a resolution recommending the American Legion National office expand their National Americanism Commission to include a Girl Scout Committee.

Junior Shooting Sports Committee

Discussion was held on how to conduct and plan a tournament. The committee talked about the use and contents of the National Standard Three Position Air Rifle Rules, equipment required and how to get a team started. Chairman Jewell gave contact information for NRA, CMP, Daisy and Champions Choice. District chairmen were asked to inquire in their areas about the number of individuals interested in becoming certified shooting coaches.

Knightstown Home Committee

A motion was made and approved to remove any member who misses five consecutive meetings. The following donations were made: $1,125 from the 8th District, $1,000 from the AMVETS Post 260, $1,500 from the Orleans SAL, and $1,500 from the Orleans Post. A second motion was made approved to give $19,500 for the school’s senior trip and $4,200 for the national finals rifle team trip to Colorado. Class rings were presented to five students at the meeting and an additional four students will be presented their rings at a later date.

The following important dates were announced: Military Ball February 2, 2008, Prom April 19, 2008, Senior Dinner May 23, 2008, and Graduation May 24, 2008. Oratorical Committee

Whereas the Spring Conference conflicts, once again, with the National Oratorical Contest finals and many of the committee will be working, assisting and supporting said contest, this committee shall not have a meeting. This motion was approved.

The Zone 1 contest is at 1:00 p.m. CDT (Chicago) time. The Zone 3 contest hosted by Post 152 will be held at the Morton Memorial School Vocational building instead of at the post as previously reported.

The committee is pleased to report an increase in participation in the last three years: 2005, 19 contestants with 13 actually participating; 2006, 27 contestants; and 2007, 46 contestants.

Chairman Langley thanked the chairmen for their efforts, in particular, 1st District

Long-Term Health Care Benefit Often Overlooked

Most veterans enrolled in VA’s healthcare system know they are entitled to a full package of healthcare benefits for acute and chronic medical conditions. Veterans, however, often lack a full understanding of their long term VA healthcare benefits, and how to access those benefits when needed.

When we think of long term healthcare, the image of nursing homes normally enter our minds. VA, however, provides many types of long term extended care in addition to nursing home care, including, adult day, respite, home, hospice/palliative, and domiciliary care.

Adult day health care is a therapeutic day care program, providing medical and rehabilitation services to disabled veterans in a combined setting.

Respite care provides supportive care to veterans on a short-term basis to give the care giver a planned period of relief from the physical and emotional demands associ-

VA Funding Increase Exceeds Legion’s Recommendations

The American Legion extends its sincere appreciation to everyone who took time to contact their Members of Congress concerning the FY 2008 VA budget.

Every phone call, e-mail and letter sent a strong message to Congress and the White House, resulting in the largest single increase in the 77-year history of the Veterans Administration.

Thanks to the bipartisan support of Congress and the White House, America’s veterans will receive much needed funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs.

“Veterans are very much in need of this additional funding,” said National Commander Marty Conatser, after being notified that President George W. Bush formally requested an additional $3.7 billion in “emergency” appropriations for VA in FY 2008.

The President recently signed the Consolidated Appropriations Act of FY 2008 providing funding for the remainder of the Federal budget except the Department of Defense. In an agreement reached between Congress and the President, the bill contained a provision to add an additional $3.7 billion for VA funding.

“The American Legion greatly appreciates the congressional leadership -- from both sides of the aisle -- for working closely with me and my colleagues to provide VA with a budget worthy of the sacrifices of the men and women of the armed forces, veterans, and their families,” Conatser said. “No veteran should ever be denied an earned benefit for honorable military service.”

Congress authorized recently-separated service members from Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom enrollment in the VA health care delivery system, to receive free health care for two years, and remain in the system if so desired. Currently, more than seven million veterans are enrolled in the VA system.

“This Congress and the Commander-in-Chief met or exceeded the funding recommendations of the veterans’ community,” Conatser pointed out.

“In all my years with The American Legion, this budget stands out as a monumental achievement.”

John Hickey Department Service Officer

ated with providing care. Respite care can be provided in the home or other non-institutional setting.

Skilled home care is provided by VA and contract agencies to veterans that are homebound with chronic diseases. This service includes nursing, physical/occupational therapy, and social services.

Hospice/palliative care programs offer pain management, symptom control, and other medical services to terminally ill veterans or veterans in the late stages of the chronic disease process. Services also include respite care as well as bereavement counseling to family members.

While some veterans quali-

Editor’s Note: Many facts for this article were taken from the VA Health Care Overview, IB 10-185, stock number p95996. The writer accepts responsibility for the comments concerning how, when, and why to apply.)

fy for indefinite nursing home care services, other veterans may qualify for only a limited period of time. Among those that automatically qualify for indefinite nursing home care are veterans whose service connected condition is clinically determined to require nursing home care and veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 70% or more. Other veterans – with priority given to those with service-connected conditions – may be provided short-term nursing home care if space and resources are available. If the veteran needs but does not qualify for indefinite nursing home care, VA may place the veteran in a community nursing home – generally not to exceed six months – following an episode of VA care. The purpose of this short-term placement is to provide assistance to the veteran and his or

her family while alternative, long-term arrangements are explored, such as, Medicare and Medicaid. We have found that it is much less complicated and easier to obtain VA assistance for nursing home care if the veteran is transferred directly from a VA hospital to the nursing facility. Veterans enrolled in the VA healthcare system who suspect the possible need for nursing home care following a period of hospitalization might therefore want to consider seeking their hospitalization from VA even if they have other means to pay for non-VA hospital services.

Domiciliary care provides rehabilitative and long-term, health maintenance care for veterans who require some medical care, but who do not require all the services provided in nursing homes. Domiciliary care emphasizes reha-

bilitation and return to the community. VA may provide domiciliary care to veterans whose annual income does not exceed the maximum annual rate of VA pension or to veterans who have no adequate means of support.

For veterans of advanced age, VA will often perform a geriatric evaluation before developing a long term or extended healthcare plan. The geriatric evaluation involves a comprehensive assessment of the veteran’s ability to care for him/herself, his/her physical health, and his/her social environment. The healthcare plan could then include treatment, rehabilitation, health promotion, and social services. These evaluations are performed by inpatient Geriatric Evaluation and Management (GEM) Units, GEM clinics, geriatric primary care clinics, and in other outpatient settings.

Veteran must be found eligible for basic VA healthcare services before VA will consider providing long term or

extended healthcare services. The enrollment verification process may sometimes take several weeks. All eligible veterans are therefore encouraged to enroll long before they need long term or extended healthcare services. Enrolling into the VA healthcare system requires filing a completed VA Form 10-10EZ with the VA Medical Center’s enrollment department.

Once enrolled into the VA healthcare system, some veterans are required to make medical co-payments and some do not based upon their enrolment classification category. For veterans who are not automatically exempt from making co-payments, a separate financial assessment form (VA Form 10-10EC) must be completed to help determine if they qualify for costfree services or to what extent they are required to make long term care co-payments.

Veterans needing VA longterm or extended care services, should contact their VA primary care physician.

Service & Legislative Update

Hoosier Service Officers Join Million Dollar Club

Note from the Department Service Officer: The Department Service Office will be open each Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. during the month of February. Appointments are necessary for client visits. You may contact the Department Service Office by calling our new direct number of 317-916-3605; calling a long distance toll free number of 1-888-723-7999, extension 3; faxing us at 317-226-6645; or by using the following e-mail address: vsohickj@vba.va.gov.

Records show clients having American Legion Department of Indiana representation received $127,099,380 in VA benefits during the 2007 calendar year. Approximately 55 percent, or $70,350,226 of this was achieved through the combined efforts of The American Legion and County Veterans Service Offices.

Several county service officers working with the Legion recovered more than a million dollars for veterans in their counties. That county list includes:

A trio of Blackhawk Helicopters from the Indiana Air National Guard performs a precision flyover in the Missing Man formation during ceremonies last fall honoring the nation’s veterans and those still missing in action from all wars. The flyover of military aircraft is a traditional and familiar part of veterans’ recognition ceremonies in the Department of Indiana, and all veterans are grateful to the Indiana Air National Guard for its support.

VA Expands Enhanced Health Care Eligibility

The National Defense Authorization Act of 2008, which was signed by President Bush on January 28, 2008, extends the period of enhanced health care eligibility provided to a veteran who served in a theater of combat operations after November 11, 1998- commonly referred to as combat veterans or OEF/OIF veterans.

The changes include :

• Currently enrolled veterans and new enrollees who were discharged from active duty on or after January 28, 2003 are eligible for the enhanced benefits, for five years following their discharge.

• Veterans discharged from active duty before January 28, 2003, who apply for enrollment on or after Janu-

ary 28, 2008, are eligible for the enhanced benefit until January 27, 2011.

As before, veterans included in this authority may be enrolled in the VA Health Care system’s Priority Group 6, if not eligible for a higher Priority Group placement, and may be charged co-pays for medication and/or treatment of conditions that are clearly unrelated to their combat service (e.g. common cold, broken bone).

These veterans, while not required to disclose income, may do so to determine their eligibility for a higher priority status, beneficiary travel benefits and exemption from co-pays for care unrelated to their military service.

There is no change to VA’s

policy of continuing enrollment of veterans who enroll with VA under this “Combat Veteran” authority after their enhanced eligibility period ends.

At the end of the enhanced eligibility period, VA will reassess the veteran's information and make a new enrollment decision. If the veteran was in Priority Group 6 and no other eligibility factors apply, he/ she will continue enrollment in either Priority Group 7 or Priority Group 8, depending on their income level and will be required to make applicable co-pays.

Additional information is available from service officers and from VA representatives at hospitals, clinics and regional offices.

2008 Sweepstakes Winners Selected At Conference

As part of its annual fund-raising program, the Department of Indiana conducts a sweepstakes for all current members. The winners’ drawing is conducted during the Commander’s Party at the Mid-Winter Conference each January.

This year’s winners were selected January 15.

Raffle tickets are mailed to members as a reminder to support the programs and activities of the Department. Voluntary contributions are accepted, but not necessary for participation in the drawing. A total of $9,000 is paid out during the drawings, and a bonus payment is made to any winners who are present at the conference for the drawing.

This year’s winners are:

Grand Prize ($3,000)

James Manuel

First Prize ($1,500)

James M. Pequignot

Second Prize ($1,000)

John Werner

Third Prize ($500)

Larry Boyd

Fourth Prizes ($250)

Kenneth L. Scott

Edwin E. Hudson

Robert Hatchett

Raymond Bittner

Jim Sarver

Dennis J. Kendal

Emil Goad

Lawrence Wible

Fifth Prize ($100)

Leonard C. Garamella

Richard Chandler

Thomas Kolb

Walter D. Miller

Carl O. Penn

George W. Van Pelt

Juan A. Roman

Howard E. Schank

Gary Wedgewood

Frank Klobucar

Welcome to the Million Dollar Club!

Veterans population statistics are taken from the Geographic Distribution of VA Expenditures for FY 2004. This report records Indiana’s total veteran population at 550,871.

$500 OIF/OEF Grants

The American Legion has distributed or processed 1,000 grants to disabled veterans during the holiday season thanks to a $500,000 donation from The Coalition to Salute America's Heroes.

"The grants are gone, but the need to care for those who have borne the cost of battle remains," said Commander Marty Conatser. "I am grateful to the Coalition for this generous gift. These vets certainly deserve it."

Any veteran who incurred a 30 percent or more disability while serving in the theater of operations during Operation Enduring Freedom or Operation Iraqi Freedom was eligible for a $500 grant. The American Legion assumed all distribution and administrative costs so the entire Coalition donation was awarded to the veterans.

Thanks goes to all the County and Post service officers who help The Indiana Department of The American Legion find as many eligible veterans as possible.

VA Healthcare Means Test Thresholds for 2008

Many veterans can qualify for VA healthcare services regardless of their income if they meet certain special category requirements, such as having a service-connected disability rating 10 percent or more disabling, having earned the purple heart award, being declared catastrophically disabled, having enrolled before January 16, 2003, etc.

Veterans who do not meet any of the special category requirements can still enroll for VA healthcare services if their 2007 income was no more than the following:

• Veterans without dependents: $28,429,

• Veterans with one dependent: $34,117,

• Veterans with two dependents: 36,026.

Dependent threshold amounts increases above two dependents at $1,909 per dependent. Also, VA’s healthcare income thresholds can be replaced with higher HUD income thresholds in high cost of living areas. To enroll, veterans should contact the enrollment office at their nearest VA Medical Center.

Conference Attracts Leaders, Combines Business & Pleasure

Post, Department and District Officers Take A Timeout From Busy Schedule Of Meetings and Training Sessions

The Department of Indiana Mid-Winter Conference is a weekend packed with education, training and meetings, focusing on state regulations affecting post operations and the programs and activities that those who attend the conference are directly involved in. With the days jam packed with study and work, the evenings are reserved for department-sponsored fun and relaxation. Here, is a sample from the Friday evening opening reception and the Saturday evening Conference Party.

1 & 2 -- Competition is heated in the bean bag tourney sponsored by the 8th District. The tournament raises money for the commander’s fund, just like the 5th District’s Darts for Dollars competition, also a highlight of the opening reception.

3 -- The barn dance theme of the Conference Party brought out the cowgirl in one participant.

4 -- Some attendees love to have their photos taken. Others don’t.

5 -- Nothing says barn dance like a checkered shirt.

6 -- 11th District Chaplain Ed Harris, Department Southern Vice Commander Danny Rice, and 11th District Commander Steve Barnett with the party mascot, Hooter.

7 -- With her winsome smile, Becky Fancher takes a whirl on the dance floor with Bill Kocher.

8 -- A young winner of the Conference Cakewalk chose an apple pie as big as a wagon wheel.

9 -- American Gothic: Vickie and Jim Koutz. Jim is Indiana’s endorsed candidate for National Commander.

10 -- Department Commander Tom Somerville and Clyde Colgrove in conference.

11 -- Hooter gets a peck on the cheek from Past Department Commander Roger Baker.

12 -- Hooter and Post 94 Commander Robyn Frailey, wearing the only pink cowboy hat in the place.

13 -- Kay Pulido relaxes as husband Al prepares to clean up.

14 -- A rowdy group of 8th District folks. At the left rear, waving wildly, is Jeff Carroll, who is happy someone noticed him.

Chairman's Notes

Naysayers In For A Surprise At The End Of The Year?

Here we are, halfway through the membership year, with everything falling into place. Then all of a sudden I hear:

“WE WONT MAKE IT!”

This was said to me the day before the Mid-Winter Conference. At the conference turn-in, I had hoped for 2,500 cards, but lo and behold, after a turn-in of 4,030 cards, we left needing only 19,000 cards for our goal.

Over 90 percent of the Posts

Campaign Raffle Draws First of 12 Rounds of Winners

The first four winners have been drawn in the Department of Indiana’s “Campaign ‘08’’ fundraising program designed to support Past Department Commander James V. Koutz’ bid to become Indiana’s first National Commander since 1979.

The winners were drawn at random during the recently concluded Mid-Winter Conference in Indianapolis.

They are:

• Mike Clark of Post 470 in the 6th District, first place winner of $500;

• Steve Conner of Post 15 in the 5th District, second place winner of $250;

• Terry Smith of Post 98 in the 4th District, third place winner of $150; and

• William B. Hansel of Post 185 in the 9th District, fourth place winner of $100.

According to the rules, drawings will be held the 15th of each month throughout 2008, with the last drawing to be conducted in December. In addition, all winning tickets are returned to the drum immediately so that winners are eligible for all subsequent drawings.

A total of $12,000 will be awarded throughout the campaign. Winners will be announced in the Hoosier Legionnaire and on the Department Website. No tickets remain available for the drawings.

100 Percent Posts

Robert Sutton Membership Chairman

in the Department need fewer than 100 cards. By the time this article reaches you, most Posts will be under 75 cards needed. This year there are no excuses! There are approximately 23 weeks left to meet and surpass our goals. Every

card over 100 percent helps the District and the Membership team.

Five years ago at this time, the Department had 58 Posts at 100 percent or more. This year, we have 30 Posts at 100 percent or more. By the Spring Conference of that year, there were 161 Posts at or above their goal. It was a year when most Posts had about the same numbers. It was also the last year of one over close of books, until this year. So don’t

tell me, or the Membership team, that it can’t be done, because you have done it before.

Be forewarned, any Post that is down or way behind will be visited or called weekly by the Membership team. The Membership team, the Department Vice Commanders, and the District Membership chairmen are all on call to help you reach your goal. We are not going to fail! We hope that all of the Dis-

Skull

Department Membership Chairman Bob Sutton, right background, discusses strategy for the membership program with three of the 2007-2008 Department Vice Commanders in one of many such sessions held throughout the year. Those sharing ideas with Sutton are, from the left, Jack Cook, Danny Rice and Ken Hylton. Northern Vice Commander Gary Steinhart was busy briefing District Commanders on plans to recruit members from among National Guard and Reserve forces.

Ask Jessie Department Approves Posts’ Access to Member Records

Dear Jessie: I am a Post adjutant. I ordered the AIM system a year ago and have been using it successfully since then, but I still can not make changes to my post members’ records on line. When I bought the software I was under the impression that we would be able to do that, but every time I call National they say “Nope; not yet.” My question is “When?”

Taking Aim

Dear Taking Aim: My answer is, “Now.” Contact Libby Green at (317) 8603132 to enroll your Post in the program. The program is referred to as ALPOP and until the first of the year, Department Officers were reluctant to approve such access by non-office personnel. However, with the Department’s switch to the AIM system, and after receiving assurances that security measures, including the issuance of Personal Identification Numbers required for access to the ALPOP system, the Department has authorized the National Organization to provide records access to any post representative who requests it.

Dear Jessie:

I joined The American Legion through a mailing and just received my membership card and a slip to transfer to a local Post. I mailed that in and I am wondering how will I know if my request has been processed or if there are any other actions I need to take?

New Kid on the Block

Dear New Kid:

You don’t need to do anything else. Your signature on the transfer request will be sufficient to authorize your transfer from the Department Headquarters Post into a post near your home. You will receive either a phone call or a letter from a committee of Legionnaires in your district

Editors Note: Editors Note: The Ask Jessie feature is designed to answer your questions about the Department Membership program, and provide information for both membership workers and interested members alike. Please send your questions concerning membership to Jessica Berggren, Senior Membership Specialist, c/o Department Headquarters. And don’t be surprised if a question from one of your phone calls ends up in the paper!

(there are 11 districts in the state) asking you to submit a copy of your release from active duty, discharge certificate, or other proof of honorable service. If you have preference as to which post you go into, you can advice the committee member at the time he or she contacts you. Welcome to The American Legion!

Dear Jessie: I hear about all the benefits a Legionnaire has with membership but I cannot locate anything that explains all my benefits. Is there a website or brochure I can obtain to review all the benefits I am entitled to?

What’s In It For Me?

Dear WIIFM:

A brochure prepared by the National Organization is available to all members, and one is on its way to you right now. Information on Legion benefits also are available on the National Organization’s website, www.legion.org. Additional information about the Legion and its many programs is also available on the website, and you can find more helpful information on the Department’s website, www.indlegion.org.

Dear Jessie:

After visiting my local Post a few times, I am interested in becoming an active member in some of the programs The American Legion supports. How would I go about this?

Time To Spare

Dear Time: Find out the date and time of the next Post meeting and attend. While you are there,

Children & Youth

Continued from page 6

Dan Buksa, 4th District Norb Bultemeier, and 8th District Norm Miller. The following individuals volunteered to assist with the state competi-

ask for information about the programs and activities the Post participates in and offer your assistance. Your fellow Legionnaires will take it from there. Good luck.

Dear Jessie: I made an address change online a month ago but my Legion magazine still went to my old address. Do I need to submit another address change or will this correct itself soon?

On The Move

Dear On The Move: No. What you need to do is be patient. Under normal circumstances, it takes six to eight weeks for such changes to catch up with the subscription list, and it is possible that too little time was available for the change to be entered before the mailing list for your latest issue was run. Sometimes, depending on the time of year and the data entry workload, it can take a little longer or a little less time, but a month is just about the minimum amount of time necessary to process the change.

Dear Jessie: I have seen there is variety of merchandise you can purchase for The American Legion. I would like to buy some of these items but not sure how to obtain a catalog or phone number? Needy

Dear Needy: Call Toll Free (888) 453-4446 to shop or order a catalog. If you prefer to shop online, visit the Legion website at www.legion.org and click on the link to the Flag and Emblem Catalogue.

tricts will be doing membership drive-arounds. The team will be out in force to participate in these drive-arounds. We have excellent competition between the Districts, with all 11 Districts over 82 percent of goal so far. I want to congratulate the 9th District commander, Milton Howard, and the 2nd District commander, Bruce Steffen, for finishing in first and second place at the Mid-Winter Conference and winning the Washington, D.C. trip. But as

close as all of the Districts are, I wouldn’t be surprised if they are not in these same positions at the end of the year.

(By the way, 11th District, what happened? Don’t worry: My bet is on you to finish in first place.)

Last year at this time we had five Districts that still needed over 2,000 cards. This year we have only one, plus we have two Districts at 1,000 cards or less. There are no excuses for not making our goal in 2008!

Country Music Artist’s ‘Real Life Tour’ Seeks Legion, Riders Support

Evansville, in the Department of Indiana’s Eighth District, has been selected as one of the stops on Michael Peterson’s "My Real Life -- Strong for America” Tour sponsored by the U.S. Army, The American Legion, New Holland Farm Equipment, and Sea Ray boats.

A country hit maker and inspirational speaker, Peterson is The American Legion's national spokesman for The American Legacy Scholarship Fund, designed to raise scholarships for the children of those killed in action during the War on Terror.

According to Bill Sloan, National American Legion Riders Coordinator, the “My Real Life” Tour is much more than a concert date.

“It offers six days of exciting events and activities for communities and youth, including free school assemblies, army touring assets -- including simulators and rock climbing walls, the Army Rock band, the premiere female escape artist in the world -- Kristen Johnson -- a salute to our veterans, a country music concert and more, all designed to engage students and communities with a powerful invitation to strengthen our nation with volunteerism and great choices by young people.”

American Legion Posts and Riders Chapters can benefit from The “My Real Life” tour in a variety of ways, including

1.) In the cities on the tour, Peterson will be available wherever possible to show up in his U.S. Army/American Legion branded tour bus for a Tuesday or Wednesday evening appearance at your chapter or post free of charge. Wearing his ALR vest and patch he will play some of his hit songs, including “It’s Who We Are” (This is the song he wrote for The American Legion.) and speak about the value of the Legacy Scholarship for our nation.

2.) He or the bus (or both) will take part in the first or last leg of any Charity Run Riders

plan during Peterson’s visit.

3.) All American Legion Posts and Riders Chapters will get their name and post number, with Legion Rider logo, on the bus in return for a $200 contribution.

Additional information is available by contacting Randall Mitchell, with the “My Real Life” Tour at (931) 6286136, or by e-mail at rockyblues20@yahoo.com.

Current tour dates, other than Evansville, include:

• February 18-23, Knoxville, TN

• February 25-March 1, Greenville, SC

• March 3-8, Charlotte, NC

• March 31-April 5, Columbus, GA

• April 21-26, Midland, TX

• May 5-10, Waco, TX

• May 12-17, Lawton, OK

• May 19-24, Lincoln, NE

The United States Army is the primary sponsor of the My Real Life Tour, and they are very supportive of all involvement from The American Legion and The American Legion Riders. Peterson sees the Riders and the Legion as positive role models for students and intends to use this tour to introduce the communities to the power of Legion youth programs in helping to grow great Americans.

The American Legion will showcase Legion Youth programs as well as Veterans Assistance programs in every city as part of the Saturday afternoon festivities.

The program provides American Legion community leaders the tools and opportunities to create long-term community impact.

The tour company has hired past Tennessee Department Commander Randall Mitchell as Peterson's American Legion tour liaison and primary point of contact for The American Legion and The American Legion Riders.

tion on March 2, 2008:

Adjournment

There being no further business to come before the Commission, the meeting was closed in proper manner.

Mark Tansel, Brian Hauser, Mike Sheets, William Barnett, David Stephens, Damon Bradtmueller, Skip Nunweiler, Allen Conley, David Hanson, and Jim Hewitt.

Chaplain’s Corner

Transforming Obstacles Into New Opportunities

I have always liked the statement, “If you are not as close to God as you once were, who do you think moved?” We all go through seasons or cycles in our lives. Life’s focus is altered along the way with our job assignments, changes in families, aging, moves and other experiences. Many of these experiences can seemingly knock us off course in our personal spiritual journey. However, I believe God uses these to return us to Him.

Commander’s Message

Who We Are, What We Do Matter To Our Communities

As you read this, I will have just returned from the Lincoln Pilgrimage, a trip to Springfield, IL, where we honor the memory of the Great Liberator, Abraham Lincoln. It has become a tradition for us to make the trip each February. It also has become a tradition, since so many of the Department and District leaders make the trip, for us to discuss the challenges and opportunities that remain before us in any given Legion year.

This year was no exception. There was a great deal of discussion about membership, which there always is, but the issue that I believe is the most important is one that got some discussion, but not nearly as much as I think it deserves.

That is the issue of publicity and promotion. When I took office at the Convention in July, one of the priorities that I outlined was the need for us to let people know what we are doing – not because I think we ought to brag, but because I think what we do is important, and because what we do defines who we are.

After all, no less a philosopher than the great Yogi Berra said, “it ain’t braggin’ if ya done it.” And we’ve done it. We continue to do it. But no one seems to know.

Not long ago I was invited to address a Kiwanis meet-

Auxiliary News

Tom Somerville Department Commander

ing. During my remarks I asked the Kiwanians to raise their hands if they knew who sponsored Boys State. Two responded. I asked them to raise their hands if they knew about the Oratorical Contest. None responded.

When that changes, we’re going to see a change in membership. These programs are the single most powerful tools we have in our membership arsenal, and the best way to assure support in our communities.

These programs are of great interest to our communities, but they continue to operate in the dark. In my own district, 18 youngsters participated in the Oratorical Contest this year – an unheard of number of contestants. That fact alone should have been reported in the local newspaper, but it wasn’t – because no one bothered to let the paper know. I am not picking on my own district. This plays out time and time again all around the department. I also remain concerned

about the level of participation in the Department’s convention awards program. We honor teachers, first responders, service personnel, employers, and others from around the state – people who contribute to the life and well-being of every community in the state – and still it is not unusual for us to go to convention with candidates from three, four, maybe five districts.

There is no better way to be good citizens, attract positive attention, and sell our organization to other like minded citizens, that to participate in the awards program. I will not be satisfied until we have a candidate from each of the eleven districts in all the competition and I challenge all of you to let it begin with the convention coming up. I am counting on you.

Finally, I am looking forward to seeing many of you at Americanism dinners and American Legion Birthday celebrations during the next few weeks. I have been overwhelmed with invitations, and I assure you I would accept them all if it was physically possible to be in more than one post at a time. It’s not, but I deeply appreciate the invitations and wish you all the best as you mark these important dates in our year.

Department ‘Humming Along’ As Year Passes Half-way Mark

It is hard to believe that in a few short months, I will be stepping down as your Department President. We are nearly two thirds of the way through the year, and much of what we set out to do has been accomplish. We are ‘humming’ right along, but much work remains to be done.

I am especially pleased that in January, we finally achieved our membership target for the first time this year. It was not only our 80 percent target, but also the National Organization’s 80 percent target and, as the men say, we nailed it. We may have got off to a slow start, but when we finally hit our stride, we showed a lot of people that it is never a good idea to write off the Indiana American Legion Auxiliary. I am proud of our members, and I am proud of what we have done so far for the state’s veterans and young people.

Nevertheless, as I travel throughout the Department, I see units and districts in which the final payoff for all the hard work, determination and commitment remains elu-

When a warrior returns home from the battlefield, there are many adjustments which must take place for the individual to become fully integrated. Life will never be the same. The journey has left its transforming effects on all those involved. Often we tend to focus on the negatives of readjustment and the stress that is encountered. We tend to place too much emphasis on obstacles rather than seeing opportunities. While life will never be that same, it can get better. We will not have growth without stress. Stress can bring strength.

I am not trying to be a proverbial optimist, but the scripture that I adhere to tells me, “All things work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose (Rom. 8:28).” This means that God is with us in every situation that we go through. The twenty-third Psalm does not lead us away from the valley of the shadow of death, but confirms that God will be with us as we go through it and we will be

Norris Keirn Department Chaplain

strengthened and comforted. Though traumatic experiences can be horrifying and push us beyond all expectations, they also bring many p ositive transformations. These experiences enable us to evaluate what is truly important in our lives. We triage life’s clutter and find that much of what consumed our focus and time ceases to have value. We hang on to the importance of relationships and tend to the needs of others.

Yesterday, I received a letter from a fellow vet who expressed concern for world hunger, orphans and those in need. The ravages of war forever changed his perspective. Traumatic experiences such as war, natural disasters, grave illnesses or death forever change those who have endured them. However, out of these experiences many positive actions are generated like support groups, missions, and service organizations to respond to the needs. Good can come out of despair!

Scripture records God’s intercession with people who have endured great struggles. Often we see God changing the names of people to reflect the transformation that these experiences have brought in their lives. “Abram” is renamed “Abraham -- the father

of many nations” after his near century of constant wandering. His child is to be called “Isaac” reflecting the laughter of doubt that Sarah expressed in her old age. “Jacob,” a name meaning “deception” or “trickster,” is change to “Israel” to reflect his wrestling with God. God continually transforms the obstacles of life into opportunities!

The season of Lent is a time to once again clarify our focus. Lenten disciplines assist us in submitting to the voice of God that calls us from the cares of the world. As I write this article, snow is falling and has covered the ground. A blanket of snow can transform even the ugliest landscape, old rusty junk, and even trash into scenes of beauty. This is what God’s grace and love will do with our lives. God transforms all the ugly into things of beauty. Struggles, sin and failures all become experiences for growth in God’s kingdom.

The triumph of the Easter celebration is marked by the beauty that spring’s rejuvenation brings through the new growth and new life reflected in nature. I hope you will take advantage of the opportunities for growth that come from the difficulties we all endure. May this be a season that leads you to the joy that is unspeakable in knowing God’s love and mercy.

But may all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you; may those who love your salvation say continually, “Great is the LORD!”

(Psalm 40:16 NRSV)

Believing And Teaching Are Key To SAL’s Long History of Success

We have arrived at the path to victory with many miles of travel, motivational talks, fund raisers, great meals, and many new friends. What lies ahead are the challenges that will make The American Legion Family successful, completing the task. We as members of the Sons of The American Legion have for many years made this journey successful by believing in and teaching the principle and policies for which our organization was founded. Support for the Veterans, their families and the communities in which we live.

might wish to add to your calendar, (depending on the release of this newspaper).

March 31st will be recognized, April 4-6, 2008, Spring Conference, Indianapolis, April 5, 2008; National Oratorical Competition, Indianapolis.

nities of people are far more complete, and our own are far more fulfilling. More importantly, we remain true to the vision of the men and women who founded our organizations.

Judy Butler Auxiliary President

sive. I want to take this opportunity to encourage all of you to stick with it. We are not alone. The Indiana Department of The American Legion and the Indiana Detachment of the Sons of The American Legion are facing the same challenges that we are, and I am encouraged by the extent to which we have been working together to face them.

Commander Somerville set us on the course of cooperation and mutual support when he adopted his theme of Team Unity. Truly we are a team, working together toward the aims and purposes of our founders. In that respect, I wish to thank everyone who has had a hand in helping us with my special projects on behalf of the Indiana Veterans Home and the Knightstown Children’s Home. By supporting those two institutions, the lives of two diverse commu-

This year is a joy in large measure because of the two men with whom I have been privileged to serve in leadership roles. Commander Alexander of the SAL and Commander Somerville of the Legion are not only great leaders, but also dedicated and determined advocates for Indiana’s veterans. We are fortunate to have them at the helm, and I am lucky to have them at my side.

As we head into the final few months, of this Auxiliary year, there remains the Lincoln Pilgrimage, the Washington Awareness Assembly, Birthday Celebrations, the Joint Spring Conference, National Meetings and the biggest one of all, the Department Convention. If that is not opportunity enough to achieve greatness, I don’t know what is. I know you be by my side as we travel that road. It will be an exciting journey.

As I mentioned in my last article, charity donations are down this year, but no matter what you give, it will be appreciated by those receiving your donations. Every dollar counts.

Here are some dates you

Short Takes

With presidential campaigning beginning almost two years prior to any presidential election, most of us feel as if we’ve seen enough of all the candidates, their ads and their promises. We grow very weary of the rhetoric and the posturing and sometimes find it difficult to believe anyone is telling the truth. While those feelings and emotions are understandable, as veterans, we must resist the temptation to turn off and tune out any level of election, particularly our presidential elections.

We sometimes forget that we served in uniform to guarantee our citizens the right not only to vote but also to choose not to vote if that is their wish.

February 1-29, 2008; Flag Education Testing, February 9, 2008; Indiana Veterans Home bingo, West Lafayette Indiana, February 11, 2008; 80% target date membership, February 16, 2008; SAL Leading National Candidate Benefit, Cedar Lake Indiana, March 1 thru 31, 2008; Legion Birthday Month, March 2, 2008; Department Oratorical Competition, Indianapolis. March 10, 2008; 85% target date membership, any squadron making 100% by

Duane Alexander SAL Detachment Commander

Decisions Depend on

As veterans, however, we must never surrender our duty to vote and more importantly to vote as an informed citizen.

As we can see there are many ways to show new and renewed members what we do and why, use your membership to its fullness, what good is a benefit if you don’t use it? Visit your SAL website; www.IN.SAL.org for information concerning what, when, where, why, and how we do our good works, or just ask.

As always, I will see many of you out and about doing what makes our Indiana American Legion Family one. I would like to take a moment to pass on a heartfelt ‘Thank You’ from the Clarence Glass Family. To everyone who did the right things to help insure Clarence received the best care possible, Thank you and may God Bless you all.

Veterans Who Vote

opportunity to vote in our primary so don’t allow yourself to get burnt out before then. Many times, the party’s nominee is already in the bag by the time our May primary occurs, but continue to be part of the process.

Stephen W. Short Department Adjutant

The United States and the State of Indiana face enormous challenges and obstacles. Giving up our right to vote and participate in democracy cheapens the entire process and makes us fully accountable for the potential terrible result.

In Indiana, we are fully three months from having an

When I think of those brave citizens in Iraq and Afghanistan who literally risked their lives to vote, many for the first time in their lives, I am humbled by the responsibility we sometimes take for granted and treat so lightly. Resist the temptation not to care, do your duty as citizens, and participate in the process. You’ve worn the uniform and made the sacrifice most other Americans will never face. Don’t blow it and let someone else make your decisions.

SAL Detachment Commander Duane Alexander, Department Commander Tom Somerville, and Auxiliary President Judy Butler share a light moment recently as they met to discuss way to improve program participation, get the American Legion Family name out into the public, and increase membership. The consensus is reflected in the commander’s column below, in which he describes the positive effect that programs can have on growth and participation in the life of the Legion.