2009 July/August The Hoosier Legionnaire

Centralized Distribution Planned For Special License Plate Program

The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles has announced some changes in the Special Group Plate program that may affect Legion family members beginning with the 2011 license plate year.

Despite the changes, the Legion plate program will continue, although the Bureau is warning of possible cancellation of plates for organizations whose sales do not meet minimum standards. Renewed participation by Hoosier Legionnaires can guarantee the special plate program long into the future.

The most significant change will be in how special plates are distributed.

According to a spokesman for the bureau, special plates will be stockpiled at a central location and distributed from there to the registrant.

“The number of available plates and inconsistent sales

make it inefficient for the BMV to maintain inventory of all plates at the over than 140 local license branches.

“A centralized fulfillment model will reduce administrative expenses and reduce excess inventory.”

Under a ‘centralized fulfillment model’ all specialty plates would be issued from one location. For example, when a customer visits a local license branch and chooses a special plate, the transaction will proceed as normal. The only difference from current procedure being that the plate will be mailed to the customer within days rather than plate being furnished to the customer at the branch.

This is no change from the current practice for specialty plates ordered via the internet and mail-in.

A provision of Indiana Statute §9-18-25-15 allows the BMV to discontinue specialty plates for organi-

zation’s that fail to meet a minimum sales threshold.

According to the statute, “The bureau shall terminate an organization's qualifica-

Garrett Legionnaire Elected To Top Spot In Hoosier Legion

A 57-year old Vietnam Veteran from Garrett, Indiana, has been elected State Commander of The Indiana Department of The American Legion.

Can’t Do It Alone – Page 8

porters will come from Legion funds; rather he will rely, as he said “ on the generosity of Legionnaires and his own persuasive skills.”

The National Organization’s revised Direct Membership Solicitation program, launched following the National Executive Committee’s approval of new rules and restrictions during the May 2009 meetings, has prompted a number of in-

quiries from members and posts concerning procedures to be followed in dealing with those who receive the invitations to join.

As with the previous program, current members may receive a solicitation because lists rented by The American Legion occasionally record the name or address on the list different than it appears on the official roles of the organization. For a variety of reasons, the member or his bill-paying spouse may see the correspondence as a routine renewal or a demand for payment., and promptly pays it.

Continued on page 3

tion for the special group license plate program and no further special group recognition license plates shall be issued for an organization if less than two thousand of the organization's special group license plates are sold or renewed in the first four

years of the five-year period beginning …January 1 of the year in which the organization's special group license plate is first issued.”

The Department of Indiana has met the threshold requirement, but continued support of the program by Legion family members is essential to continuing the special plate program.

Low digit license plate registrants will continue to pay the $30 special pull fee at the time of re-issuance in 2011, although the BMV is reviewing the charge for customers who paid the special pull fee at the time of issuance in 2007 would not expect to pay the fee again until 2012. The letter prefixes currently on the plates will not be changed, and motorcycle plates will continue to be available. No special forms from the Legion are needed to purchase a Legion license plate.

Robert W. Newman, a 41year life member of the wartime veterans’ organization, was elected by delegates to the 91st annual state convention in Indianapolis July 11, 2009.

Newman served as a radar man in the United States Navy from 1965 to 1969 aboard, first, the USS Bonhomme Richard and, subsequently, the USS Long Beach. The Long Beach was the Navy’s first nuclear powered surface ship and was stationed in Haiphong Harbor off the coast of North Vietnam, where it tracked Navy bombers into and out of the combat zones, performed rescue operations for downed airmen, and scored the first ever shoot-down of an enemy aircraft by missile.

Newman retired from the United States Postal Service after a 33-year career which included a five-year stint as Postmaster at Butler, Indiana. He is a 41-year member of Aaron Scisinger American Legion Post 178 in Garrett and has served continuously in Legion offices since 1973.

In a long-standing tradition for newly elected commanders, Newman announced an ambitious fundraising objective for his year in office. He hopes to provide a pair of six-person golf-cart style transporters to the VA Health Care facilities at both Fort Wayne and Marion.

The Legion historically has supplied VA facilities with a variety of needs exceeding those routinely provided by the federal government, ranging from driving test equipment to patient room amenities to vehicles.

According to Newman, none of the estimated $40,000 needed to acquire the trans-

Newman will serve as the top executive in the Indiana American Legion until July 2010.

The Legionnaires also elected four regional vice commanders to serve with Newman. They are Clyde Colgrove of Munster, James B. May of Bloomington, Mike Davis of Warsaw, and David Sharber of Mount Vernon.

W. Darrell Hansel of Vevay was elected to a seat on the National Organization’s Board of Directors – the National Executive Committee – and Paul Steward of Elkhart was elected alternate. Gary Parker of Fort Wayne will serve as Sergeant at Arms and Anthony Riley of Whitestown was re-elected State Finance Officer.

Knightstown Home Commemoration Set

The American Legion Family will commemorate the end of an era with a gala event on the grounds of the American Legion Mall just east of Department Headquarters on Sunday, September 13, 2009 from noon to 5:00 p.m.

All posts, units and squadrons who have supported the Indiana Soldiers and Sailor Children’s Home over the years are invited to this totally free event. It will feature ISSCH alumni, a catered picnic lunch, beverages, games and tours of the Indiana World War Memorial and the Legion’s National Headquarters. Family members are encouraged to bring their children and grandchildren to enjoy the day. For more information, visit the Department Website, www.indlegion.org.

The scheduled

Knightstown Home Membership Card turnin will take place at Department Headquarters from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. as announced. Parking will be plentiful on the streets adjacent to the mall, and participants are encouraged to bring their canopies, lawn chairs and other comfort items.

47.98

Hammond Victory Post 168 American Legion baseball team celebrates its win in the Indiana American Legion Baseball state championship finals. The champs lost the last two games of the

Regional Tourney to bow out of the race for the national championship. Coach is Coach and Manager is Mark DeRolf.

Robert W. Newman 2009-2010 Commander

Of The Legion Year Ends With Mixed Emotions, Successes

I imagine most Department Commanders set aside the White Cap of Leadership with mixed emotions, as I did at the close of the 91st annual Department Convention in July. Nevertheless, I left office with the certain knowledge that the State of the Legion was sound. It was handed to me in that condition, and I am proud to hand it on to my successor, Bob Newman, in the same good shape.

As you have heard every year for the past decade and more, there are areas in which we could be more successful – membership is one of them, of course, and it will probably always be. But overall, it was an exciting 12 months.

I will always remember this year, and I will always be grateful to the men and women of The American Legion Family and for the kindness and courtesy shown to my wife Chrissie and me wherever we went. Springfield … Washington, DC … points in between … and all over the State of Indiana: Wherever I was, and whenever I was surrounded by Hoosier Legionnaires, I was in the company of the finest people on the face of the earth.

The American Legion is unique among organizations whose members come together voluntarily for a common purpose. For us, there is no one reason, no single purpose, for being Legionnaires.

Ralph Tolan Past Department Commander

That is why it is so difficult to assess the accomplishments of any given year. I will, nevertheless, give it a try, keeping in mind that, in a very real sense, there are as many ‘American Legions’ as there are Legionnaires. Each of us has our reasons for belonging, and each of us measures our success by a different yardstick.

When I took the oath of office, I had a vision for what we might accomplish together. That vision was to focus the light of public attention on the goals of The American Legion, in order to create an environment in which all of you – recruiters every one – would be successful in bringing in new members, renewing old ones, and reinstituting lapsed one.

Among my priorities were:

Getting people to understand who we are and what we do, to know how we spend our money and who we spend it on, and why we believe the things we believe.

Turning around attitudes toward membership growth. We have done that.

Re-establishing pride in accomplishment by making

Jordon Honored for ISSCH Work

Jerry Jordon, tapped by thenDepartment Commander Ralph Tolan to lead the effort on behalf of the Indiana Soldiers and Sailors Children’s Home at Knightstown, was honored at the 91st annual Department Convention for his efforts.

Jerry Jordon Led The Fight

“Jerry, I know the past several months have been difficult and ultimately disappointing to you,” PDC Tolan told Jordon following his report on the initiative.

“I also know that as chairman of the special committee established to fight for the home, you showed great courage and determination.

“You said that you will not quit until I give the word. Well, I am not quite ready to give you the word, but I know you have done just about all

100 percent membership goals attainable. We have done that.

Encouraging greater participation in convention awards and recognition programs. We have done that.

Revitalizing our youth programs. We are on the road to accomplishing that, with a highly successful Boys State program at Trine University under our belts

A Hoosier high schooler taking top honors in the National High School Oratorical Contest.

And supporting the Indiana Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Children’s Home at Knightstown.

Of all the experiences of the past year, that last objective is the one that leaves me with the most mixed emotions. I am disappointed beyond words, of course, that the home has been closed. I am so very proud, however, of the good fight we put up. We acted from the purest of motives, with the highest ideals. We devoted manpower and money to the fight, and we were tireless in our advocacy for the young people who called Knightstown their Home.

We were up against powerful interests in state government, some motivated by political considerations, others by haughty professional views. No one on the other side, it appears to me, were motivated by a sincere desire to do what was best for the young people at the home.

the American Legion Children’s Home

wishes to salute all those who supported the Indiana soldiers’ and sailors’ children’s home for the past 144 years. the spirit lives on in ponca city, OK. some will never understand the sacrifices you’ve made.

anyone can do in this endeavor.

The award presented by Commander Tolan read “…To Jerry Jordon for your steadfast and tireless dedication in fighting against the untimely closure of the Indiana Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Children’s Home in Knightstown, Indiana. Your “No Surrender” determination in fighting the state has been an inspiration to us all.”

The special award was signed by the Department Commander. Jordon, a member of American Legion Post 152 in Knightstown, was named Membership Chairman by newly elected Department Commander Robert Newman following the close of the convention.

american legion children’s home

www.americanlegionchildrenshome.org

Distinguished Servants

Seven “Outstanding Legionnaires” Honored With Department Award

Past Department Commander Thomas Somerville stepped to the convention platform during the 91st annual Department Convention in July to confer the Legion’s highest award on seven Legionnaires who were nominated by their peers and selected by a committee of distinguished Legionnaires to receive the 2009 Distinguished Service Award.

Somerville described the award as one which “seeks to recognize those Legionnaires who have contributed significantly to the organization through their service to The American Legion and the State of Indiana. It is my privilege to chair the selection committee and I can tell you that it is no easy task to decide who best deserves this honor. But we did it.

“The Department of Indiana is proud to recognize these individuals with the highest honor we can bestow. They are James Delaney, Darrell Hansel, Martin “Marty” Dzieglowicz, Lawrence “Larry” Horvath, Norbert Bultemeier, David Rook, and George Blackburn.”

Portions of the winners’

citations follow: James A. Delaney, a Vietnam Veteran from Lebanon, was elected Commander of The American Legion Department of Indiana at the 88th annual convention in July, 2006.

He served in the United States Army from 1966 to 1968. He is a member of Brown-Dolson American Legion Post 113 in Lebanon, where he has been a member for more than 37 years.

He is a former Chairman of all four of the Department’s permanent commissions, a former Southern Vice Commander, and served the Department as Vice Chairman of the Public Relations and Softball committees, along with a stint as a member of the Executive Section of the Membership Committee.

David P. Rook, currently serves as Department Assistant Department Finance Officer, the latest in a long line of offices and appointments that he has held since becoming a member of The American Legion in 1978.

He is a veteran of both the Air Force and Navy . He is a former 7th District Finance Officer, Membership Chairman, Vice Commander and District Commander, in which office he led his district to 102 percent of goal.

Darrell Hansel is the National Executive Committeeman for the Department of Indiana, representing the state at the highest levels of the organization. He is a US Army veteran and a member of Vevay’s Post 185, where has served in many offices, including Post Commander. Hansel is a former Ninth District Commander, and has served as chairman of both the Americanism and Government committee and the Children and Youth committee.

Norb Bultemeier is an Air Force veteran. He joined American Legion Post 43 where he has served as third, second and first Vice

Commander, as well as Post Commander in 1987. Following his year in office he was appointed Post Judge Advocate, a position he continues to hold.

In 1989, Bultemeier assumed his first District office, and subsequently rose through the ranks to become District Commander in 1997. His earlier district offices included Assistant Membership Chairman, Membership Chairman, Historian, Judge Advocate, Finance Officer, Sergeant at Arms, Adjutant, and Vice Commander and C

At the Department level, he has been Northern Vice Commander and chairman of the Employment Committee.

Martin J. Dzieglowicz, is a Vietnam era Army veteran and 34-year member of the East Chicago Allied Post 369.

He has been active in leadership roles in his post, where he served as Post Finance Officer, commander, trustee, and building manager. He has been or continues to be a member of almost all the permanent committees of his post.

He also has been First District Vice Commander, Executive Commander, Membership Chairman and, in 1997, Commander. During the time he held those elective and appointive offices, he also served in a variety of permanent committee assignments.

Dzieglowicz is the Department’s POW/MIA committee chairman, vice chairman of the Boy Scout Committee and was Department Northern Vice

Commander in 2007. He is a member of the Gold Brigade.

Lawrence A. Horvath is an Army veteran who served during Vietnam. He is a 34-year member of Griffith American Legion Post 66, where he has served in offices including Post Commander for seven terms and Adjutant since 2006. He has been District Commander, District Vice Commander, Membership Chairman and Executive Vice Commander.

He was the Department’s first Chairman of the Junior Shooting Sports program, Chairman of the SAL Committee, and in 2000, he was elected Northern Vice Commander.

George K. Blackburn, Jr. was in the United States Army during World War II, serving in the European Theater of Operation with the 120th Antiaircraft Battalion.

In July 1976, Blackburn was named “Post Legionnaire of the Year.” In March, 1987, he received “Meritorious Service Award,” from his post and has been Post Commander four times. He remains active as Editor of the Post Newsletter, Historian, Assistant to the Adjutant, Assistant to the Finance Officer, Assistant to the Service Officer, and is the Sgt.-at-Arms.

He has been a delegate to the Indiana Department Convention every year since 1971 and in the 11th District, he held many offices. The 11th District awarded him its ‘Outstanding Citizen Award” in 1987.

2009 Youth Champions

Americanism, C&Y Awards

Continued from page 4

their communities.

The winners are:.

Katie Gutman, from St. Paul Lutheran Elementary School, who was sponsored by Post 82 in the 4th District. She was accompanied on stage by the 4th District Chairman, Larry Thiele.

Alex Moser from Riley Elementary School, who was sponsored by Post 83 in the 3rd District. The 3rd District Chairman, Daniel Lee, also joined his winner on stage for the reading of the essay.

Singing Sheriff David Lain, Sheriff of Porter County, who caught the eye—and the ear—of the Department Adjutant during his rendition of the National Anthem at last year’s Porter County Veterans Day observance, led delegates to the 91st annual Department Convention in singing the Anthem to open the proceedings.

Leaders Return

A traditional highlight of the annual Department Convention is the reunion and recognition of Past Department Commanders. Many of those who served in the Department’s top office return each year to receive recognition for their leadership and contributions not only in office, but in the years before and after.

Revised DMS Program

Continued from page 1

Here’s where it gets complicated. The member may not realize that he or she has responded to a DMS solicitation. The member then is treated as a new member, assigned a new identification number and entered into Post 17. When the member – or the post – discovers the error, the member tries to transfer back to his or her original post, and hits a wall.

The wall is that the member has not paid dues to the local post, but remains on the original post roster as an expired member under the original number. All that really is necessary for that member is to request cancellation of the second membership and submit the dues payment to the local post. Will he or she get a refund from the National Organization for the erroneous payment under the DMS program? Probably. Unraveling such an error can take time, however.

Indiana veterans who recently received cards after responding to the solicitation received cards indicating their Department is “HQ,” the Post as “0017” and the post location as Indiana. According to National Internal Affairs Director Jack Querfield and National Membership Director Billy Johnson, those entries resulted from

a “clerical error” and will be corrected. The two officials also indicated that while the cards are inaccurate, the new members are in fact members of the Department, but can’t be counted or accessed by the Department.

Nevertheless, those veterans who respond to the invitation and who are not current members pose significant challenges to the Department for efficient member service because their record are not accessible by the Department.

Based on Resolution 1 (NEC May 2009), those members can will not be eligible for service or transfer until after the first full renewal cycle.

Further complicating this process is that the Department of Indiana has a duly chartered Post 17, The American Legion Riders Post in the First District. Those members who received a card from National under the revised DMS program are NOT members of that post.

Officials of the National Internal Affairs Division are attempting to clarify procedures for implementing this new system. Members who find themselves incorrectly placed in the sequestered membership should contact their previous post for help cancelling their new membership and renewing their post membership. Post and

District officers should contact the Department for assistance in complying with the often-confusing rules governing this revision.

Finally, verification of eligibility for membership or transfer from one post to another remains a challenges under the revised program.

The Department of Indiana will continue to conduct verification by way of the District Headquarters Post program in which a task group in each district verifies the status of the acquired member and presents him or her for membership in a community post. The program in its last year of activity boosted Indiana’s DMS retention rate significantly.

As always, the best way to avoid problems such as some members and posts have encountered is to undertake an aggressive renewal and reinstatement program at the post. Long-time members are valuable resources as both program volunteers and dues paying members.

And again as always, Posts should encourage their members to carefully examine all correspondence from The American Legion before responding. The first clue will be that the requested payment will be less than the usual post dues. If it looks too good to be true, it probably is.

He became the first young Hoosier Orator to win the competition since 1974.

Senators, Representatives Honored As Distinguished Public Servants

Four members of the Indiana General Assembly were honored with the Department of Indiana’s Distinguished Public Service Award during ceremonies held as part of the 91st annual Department Convention.

Senator Jean Leising, from District 42, Senator Ron Alting, from District 22, Representative Tom Saunders, from District 54, and Representative Sheila Klinker, from District 27 were recognized on the convention platform.

Danny Rice, chairman of the Department’s Legislative Committee, presented the awards on behalf of Department Commander Ralph Tolan, saying “It has become our custom to honor members of the Indiana General Assembly for outstanding service and commitment to issues of special concern to Hoosier veterans.

“We do not do this every year; but as Hoosiers we have always been blessed to have many outstanding public servants over the years. I am pleased that this year, we have identified four members of the General Assembly who have demonstrated those characteristics we most value in a public servant.

“Since their inception, these awards have become among the most highly prized Legion honors. Just like in previous years, selecting this year’s honorees was not easy, but I believe the legislators we are about to honor certainly do deserve this award.”

The award is presented, according to the inscription, “In recognition of distinguished and honorable service as a Statesman, a proven leader in the Indiana General Assembly, a proponent of classical values, and an unwavering advocate for Hoosier Veterans and their families …”

Senator Jean Leising was first elected to the Indiana State Senate in 1988, serving until 1996; she was elected again in 2008. During her current tenure she represents, Decatur, Fayette, Franklin, Rush and Shelby Counties, and serves on the Agriculture & Small Business committee … the Education & Career Development committee … the Health and Provider Services – Provider Services Subcommittee … and the Utilities & Technology committee. She is active in the Indiana Corn Growers Association and was honored as the Indiana Farm Bureau Woman of the Year in 1980.

State Senator Ron Alting was elected to his seat in the Indiana Senate in 1998, where he represents the citizens of Tippecanoe County.

Three of four members of the Indiana General Assembly attended the 91st annual Department Convention to accept the Distinguished Public Service Award from Commander Ralph Tolan. They are, from the left, Senator Jean Leising, from District 42, Senator Ron Alting, from District 22, and Representative Sheila Klinker from District 27. Representative Tom Saunders, from District 54, was unable to attend.

He is a former president of the Lafayette City Council, a major in the Indiana Guard Reserve and serves on a number of important committees in the Senate, among which are Commerce… Public Policy & Interstate Cooperation, which he chairs… Judiciary …Probate Code & Trusts Subcommittee … Agriculture & Small Business … and Elections. He has twice been appointed by the governor to serve on special councils and commissions, including Indiana’s Tourism Council and the Commission on Disproportionality of Youth Services.

State Representative Tom Saunders, who was unable to attend the convention, was first elected to office in 1996. Since the beginning of his tenure as State Representative of District 54, Rep. Saunders wasted no time bringing increased economic development, with the beginning of construction on interchanges along I-70, as well as new businesses like the DOT Foods distribution center, for the citizens of Henry, Wayne, and Randolph Counties. Rep. Saunders’ experience as Henry County Assessor and Franklin Township Trustee was recognized by House leadership, slating him as Vice-Chair of the Local Government Committee.

Rep. Saunders recognizes

the enormous task of those working within local units of government to provide services for their constituents. He also serves on the Roads and Transportation committees.

State Representative Sheila Klinker was first elected to the Indiana House of Representatives in 1982. She represents District 27. She currently serves as Outreach Liaison for the Purdue University College of Education, the university from which she earned her Master's degrees in elementary education, administration and supervision, as well as he undergraduate degree in education. A member of the numerous community organizations, Representative Klinker has received many awards and recognitions for her legislative and civic efforts, particularly on behalf of children and families, as well as individuals who are mentally ill or developmentally challenged, and for her successful work in promoting job growth and economic development in Indiana Rice concluded his presentation by saying “Fellow Legionnaires, these distinguished public servants led the fight on a variety of issues of critical importance to Indiana’s veteran community throughout the session, and we appreciate their service.”

Leaders Confer

Indianapolis Major Greg Ballard congratulates Department

Ralph Tolan on his year at the helm of the Indiana American Legion during the 91st annual Department Convention. Mayor Ballard also congratulated the delegates on their legacy of service, while Tolan described the mayor one who “as a member of the United States Marine Corps, learned the lessons of leadership, personal courage and commitment to duty – all characteristics that have served him well since his election to Mayor of the Great City of Indianapolis.”

Commander Tolan presents the Department of Indiana’s Boy Scout of the Year award to Adam Bailey, the 11th District Scout of the Year sponsored by American Legion Post 3. In addition to his convention award, Bailey received a $200 scholarship for his district achievement and a $1,000 scholarship for his Department Award.

Commander Tolan presents the Department of Indiana’s Girl Scout Gold Award to Eighth District Champion Danielle Collier, who took home a $1,000 scholarship in addition to her convention plaque. She is a student at Floyd Central High School and plans to attend the University of Louisville to study nursing.

Andrew Dykstal, the 2009 National High School Oratorical Contest Champion – who also won Indiana’s state competition this year, addresses the Department Convention. Dykstal also won the 2008 Department Competition and was sponsored by American Legion Post 38 in the Second District.

Commander

Non-Service Connected Pensions Available For Some Wartime Veterans

Editor’s Note: Many veterans responded after we published an article concerning VA non-service connected pension benefits. The following is an updated reprint that can help those who may have missed the first article or those who may have become qualified for VA non-service connected pension benefits since Mr. Hickey wrote about this benefit two years ago.

VA offers a non-service connected pension to wartime era veterans who served 90 days or more active duty in the armed forces, were discharge under other than dishonorable conditions, and who have a disability or a combination of disabilities that "permanently" preclude them from engaging in a gainful employment activity.

VA will concede the veteran meets the permanent and total disability requirement if the veteran is a patient in a nursing home, has been determined totally disabled by the Social Security Administration, or is at least 65 years of age.

This non-service connected pension benefit guarantees the veteran an annual income that is usually increased each year with a cost of living adjustment. Almost all the veteran's family income from other sources reduces the non-service connected pension benefit dollar-for-dollar.

The total amount of the veteran's un-reimbursed family medical expenses over five percent of the basic pension benefit is used to re-

duce the amount of income from other sources counted against the non service connected pension benefit. All expenses the claimant must pay toward the cost of nursing home care (over the five percent deduction) may subtract from the countable income for VA pension purposes. VA will also allow the costs of assisted living facility expenses or home care expenses to figure in reducing the claimant’s countable income for VA pension purposes if the VA determines the claimant’s medical condition meets the disability requirements for entitlement to VA Special Monthly Pension (SMP) Housebound or SMP Aid and Attendance benefits.

The same is not true for veterans entitled to only the basic VA pension. Once the pension is calculated, VA normally pays the benefit in twelve monthly installments.

Non-service connected pension is adjusted upward when the number of the veteran's dependents increase and downward when the vet-

John Hickey Department Service Officer

eran loses dependents. A dependent includes a spouse, child, or stepchild. The child or stepchild must be under age 18, or under age 23 and attending school. The stepchild must have acquired that status before the age of 18 while living as a member of the veteran's household.

Copies of the veteran's marriage certificate and the children's birth certificates should be submitted with the pension application if not already within the VA claim file. The veteran should also supply documents proving the termination of all prior marriages of both the veteran and his or her current spouse. VA will normally waive the document copy requirement if the claimant can give the exact dates and places of all marriages, and divorces or deaths of previous spouses.

Shortly before a dependent child's 18th birthday, the veteran should complete and return a VA form 21674 if the child will remain in school after becoming 18 years of age. This will al-

Rehabilitation Awards

Rehabilitation Chairman

Ed Trice took the platform of the 91st annual Department Convention to honor those whose achievements in service to Indiana’s veterans and their rehabilitation were singled out for special recognition.

As Commander Tolan stood by to present the awards, Trice told the delegates “the founding fathers of The American Legion had a vision. That vision was that The American Legion would serve veterans, their families and loved ones upon their return from service to the nation. The rehabilitation awards we present annually recognize the efforts of our Legionnaires and Posts to carry on the vision of our founders and turn that vision into reality.”

Those awards include:

Individual Awards

The Ralph V. "Curly" Cushman award recognizes outstanding efforts in all phases of veterans’ rehabilitation. The 2009 award was presented to Burton Woolery Post 18 in the 7th District.

It takes more than time and effort to serve the veterans of Indiana—it also takes money, Trice said, the Dale Kuhn Award recognizes the District in the Department of Indiana having made the greatest donation to the Department Rehabilitation Fund based on per capita

membership as of close of books. Continuing its string of awards in this area, the First District once again took home the Dale Kuhn award.

One of the Department’s newest awards, given this year for only the second time and named in honor of one of our outstanding Past Department Commanders, recognizes excellence in both knowledge and service as a Post Service Officer. The winner of the Thomas “Thumper” Henderson Award for top Post Service Officer is Dennis D. Ross from the Second District’s American Legion Post 253 in North Webster.

The Al Waichulis Memorial Award, established to recognize Legionnaires who give of themselves in many ways to support veterans who need assistance, this year was presented to Al Pulido of Post 66 in the 1st District.

Employment Awards

Each year the Department of Indiana honors private employers whose workforce consists of at least 25 percent veterans and which have been in business for at least five years. These businesses have no company policies or practices that restrict either total employment or individual jobs to veterans.

The winners of the employer of the year awards are selected from three categories, large employer, me-

low the claimant to keep the child as a dependent for VA purposes until the child either stops attending school or reaches the age of 23.

If the non service-connected pension applicant has never filed a VA compensation or pension claim before, VA Form 21-526 must be filed. The income and net worth portion of VA form 21-526 must be completed when filing for non serviceconnected pension benefits.

If the non service-connected pension applicant has previously filed a VA compensation or pension claim, the claimant may use VA form 21-527 to reapply.

matically meet the SMP disability requirement.

To apply when the veteran is a nursing home patient, a letter from the nursing home noting the veteran is a patient and stating the daily cost of nursing home care should also accompany the veteran's application for pension benefits. The nursing home letter should also note if Medicaid is paying the veteran’s nursing home expenses.

The following are examples of several 2009 non-service connected pension rates for veterans and the surviving spouse:

Higher non-service connected pension allowances are also paid when veterans are either housebound or in need of aid and attendance from another person because of disability. The disability requirement for special monthly pension aid and attendance benefits is assumed if the veteran is a patient in a nursing home, but residency in assistant living facilities do not auto-

If a veteran without a spouse or other dependent is a patient in a Medicaid paid nursing home, VA will pay the qualifying veteran only $90 per month. None of that $90 VA payment, however, can be applied to the cost of nursing home care or attached by Medicaid.

If the veteran is not a nursing home patient but otherwise thought eligible for SMP, the veteran may best apply for the additional allowance by having a doctor complete a VA form 21-2680.

Of course, the VA form 212680 should also either accompany the application for

non service connected pension benefits or be supplied to the VA Regional Office shortly after filing the nonservice connected pension application.

Once the veteran begins receiving a VA non-service connected pension, VA will normally require the completion of an annual income and medical expense report. Veterans receiving VA nonservice connected pension must be very careful not to under-report their income or over-report medical expenses because this could result in an overpayment of benefits that VA will want to recoup.

Also, the qualifying veteran’s surviving spouse is entitled to a non-service connected survivor’s pension. Although the spouse does not have to be totally disabled, the survivor’s pension rates are much lower. The surviving spouse’s claim is filed using a VA form 21-534. Anyone who needs further information concerning VA non-service connected pension benefits can contact their local County Veterans Service Officer, or The American Legion, Department of Indiana Veterans Service Office at either 1-888-723-7999, ext. 3, or 317-916-3605. The American Legion provides free veterans claims representation.

dium employer and small employer. This year, three companies that demonstrated a genuine commitment to veterans were honored. They are Cardinal Health Services in Indianapolis, Indiana, nominated by Department Commander Ralph Tolan; ESW, Inc. in Crown Point, Indiana, nominated by Allied Post 369 in the First District; and Tri-Star Engineering, Inc. in Bedford, Indiana, nominated by Loogootee Post 120, in the Ninth District.

Priya Wharton, President and CEO, Tom Garner, Operations Manager, and Polly Lawyer, VP for Administration from Tri-Star Engineering; Lawrence M. Caldwell Sr., President and CEO. Of ESW, Inc.; and Keith Koontz, of Cardinal Health Nuclear Services, accepted their awards from Trice.

The Department’s Employment of Older Workers Award also went to ESW, Inc.

Veterans Employment

Hoosier Legionnaires also honor those who work on behalf of unemployed veterans to find them suitable jobs and training, if necessary.

The 2009 Local Veterans Employment Representative award was presented to Jenna Johnston from Valparaiso. She was nominated for this award by Don Shultz, Vice Commander of the First District.

Americanism, C&Y Awards

Continued from page 5

American Legion Family Scholarship

The American Legion Family Scholarship was established a few years ago by then-Department Commander John Michalski, who devoted his year to raising a permanent endowment from which funds for scholarships could be earned by investment.

According to Hylton, the program has been wildly successful. It is open to the children and grandchildren of Legion, Auxiliary and SAL members, and key provisions hold that the scholarship must be used at an Indiana institution of higher learning, and that applicants must be 21 or younger.

Three $1,000 scholarships were presented this year, to Nichelle Whitehead, Garrett Schirmacher, and Rachel Kerstiens.

Nichelle graduated from Wawasee High School and is attending Indiana University majoring in biology and psychology. Her entry in the competition was based on the membership of Sally Whitehead in Auxiliary Unit 253.

Garrett is a graduate of Lincoln High School and will attend Vincennes University where he plans to study engineering. Garrett’s sponsor is Jon Litherland, who is a member of SAL Squadron 73 in Vincennes. Rachel will attend the University of Southern Indiana

after graduation from Forest Park Jr. Sr. High School, and will pursue a degree in Dental Hygiene. Her grandfather, Roman Lubbers, is a member of Post 493 in St. Anthony, and is the member on whom her application was based.

Flag Education

Flag Education Chairman Ron Taylor introduced the winners of the 2009 Flag Education competition, both of whom read their winning essays before the delegates.

“This year is the 14th year of this very successful program, in which flag education tests are administered to fourth graders around the state,” Taylor said, encouraging delegates to continue sponsoring the program in

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Not Forgotten

Chaplain’s Corner

Continued from page 8

discomfort followed by several days of diarrhea. Since we normally ran loose with the water and the defoliant spray, we sure didn’t want anything that would “free” us up more. These orange pills were placed in our mouths by the dutiful Corpsmen and followed by a mandated swallow. It did not take long to get good at slipping the pill under the tongue, swallowing and opening the mouth to show it was gone! Our medical hooch was at the top of the hill not far from the chow hall while my hooch was further down the hill. As soon as the crest of the hill hid the Corpsmen from view, you could see little orange pills sprayed all around the dirt. All seemed well until the right mosquito bit someone and they broke out with a case of malaria. It was not a pretty sight. Since Da Nang was so full of wounded, once they “crested,” the sick were

sent back to recoup in their unit. We watched our buddies wither and shake with the fever, chills and other side effects. On the next “pill day,” we would line up take the pill and swallow it. Regardless of the ramifications that followed for the next three days no one wanted malaria!

It seems that we are living in a season when the practice of our faith is similar to the malaria pills. The side effects of attending worship and becoming involved with church life just seem to cause too much discomfort, affecting the free time, wants and desires of the basic individual. People are glad that there are churches and pastors, if they ever really need one. The gap at times seems to widen between those who say they believe and those who practice the faith by attendance and devoted service.

This lax attitude can be frustrating to the committed. How do you reach out

in the midst of a “religious recession” You certainly can’t make people have faith. The importance of practicing our faith will not be realized without an obvious and apparent need. Conviction comes when there is a crisis.

The literal Biblical meaning of “Crisis” is to come to a fork in the road where you must make a choice in the direction you will go.

Reaching out to those who encounter the crisis of life is what people of faith do best. We seek opportunities to share and assist from our wealth or experience and resources. While one might say it is hard to reach out in these times, I would say there is greater opportunity. Look around and you will find people in crisis all around.

Religion

is

that

pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world. James

Department Vice Commanders Ron Kizer, Rick Hudson, Homer Loudermilk and Rodney Strong place the POW/MIA flag and light the memorial candle in accordance with traditional Legion practice to remember those missing, unaccounted for or captive from the nation’s wars. The POW/MIA ceremony opens every meeting or gathering of the Legion, and a table is reserved for the missing and captive at each Legion banquet as a constant reminder.

All Work And No Play?

Chairman's Notes

Strategic Planning May Hold The Key To Membership

I would like to thank newly elected Department Commander Robert Newman for appointing me as your Department Membership Chairman for the coming year. I am looking forward to the task and the chance to meet and visit many posts.

I think we have laid out a very workable plan using some of our ideas, some old ideas and ideas from the newly created "Strategic Planning Committee." The strategic committee consists of possible future Commanders and Membership

Jerry Jordon Department Membership Chairman

Chairmen and their purpose is to advise and make recommendations to the incoming Department Commander and Membership Chairman on issues concerning membership. In the past, membership strategies were scrapped as soon as a new Commander

and Membership Chairman took office. The old ideas of past officers were sometimes not considered or given a long-term chance to prove they were workable. We may have had a solution to our decline in membership but missed it. The planning committee has given us a fiveyear plan, which we hope will improve membership, a plan that is not set in stone but one that can be tweaked as necessary. There are many ideas still to be developed and we must be willing to consider them and implement them when considered

Membership Awards

Membership Chairman

Ralph Perez was called to the platform of the 91st annual Department Convention to help honor those Legionaires who extra effort kept the membership program on the high road this year. As he presented the awards, Commander Tolan stepped to a lower platform designed to focus attention on the winners where each was photographed and applauded for his or her success. As he announced the awards, Perez told the delegates “Legionnaires spend countless hours talking and visiting with their fellow veterans, telling them about the benefits of belonging to The American Legion. Among these dedicated workers is one Legionnaire who has signed up more new members than any other Legionnaire in the state.”

Recruiter of the Year

This year’s Indiana American Legion Department Recruiter of the Year is Carol Hanlin of the Second District’s Herbert Kuhn American Legion Post 253 in North Webster, who recruited 90 new members this year.

Gold Brigade Members

“Legionnaires who reach beyond what is expected in membership take the extra step by asking everyone they meet to join our great organization,” Perez said.

“These Legionnaires earn the distinction of being members of the ‘Gold Brigade.’

To qualify for membership in this elite group, a Legionnaire must recruit at least 50 new members into The American Legion before May 19th of the membership year.

This year three Hoosier Legionnaires’ names will be added to or renewed on the roster of the "Gold Brigade."

Receiving their first Gold Brigade awards are:

Carol Hanlin, Post 253, with 90 new members …

Greg Swain, Post 47, with 85 new members

And James May, Post 18, earning his 13th Gold Brigade award, with 50 new members.

Silver Brigade Members

The National Organization also has established the Silver Brigade as a way to honor other successful recruiters who are working their way to the top. This year, four Hoosier Legionnaires reported having recruiting 25 members by the May deadline. They are:

Jon Rossback, Post 100 in the 2nd District, 35 new members;

Herb Hoffman, a repeat winner from Post 103 in the 7th District, 32 new members;

L. Wayne Wright, Post 2 in the 7th District, 25 new members;

John Wrolan, also from Post 100 in the 2nd District,

25 new members; Richard S. Kaplan Award

The Richard S. Kaplan Award is presented to the Post which secured the greatest number of new members, as certified to department headquarters. This year's recipient of the Kaplan award, with 101 new members, is Herbert Kuhn Post 253 in the Second District.

Donald W. Hynes Memorial Award

The goal of every Post in the Department is the attainment of an all-time high. The Donald W. Hynes Memorial Award recognizes the Post in the Department which attains an all-time high in membership for the highest number of consecutive years, and this year, for the 61st consecutive year, the award goes to St. Joseph Post 464 of St. Leon, in the 9th District.

Squadron of The Year

We also recognize the largest Squadron in the Detachment. For the 10th consecutive year, it is Squadron 253 of North Webster.

Top Ten Posts

The 2009 Department of Indiana Top Ten Posts are...

10th Place – Bonnie Sloan Post 28: 956 members

9th Place – Madison Post

9: 956 members

8th Place – Robert Kennington Post 34: 1,021 members

7th Place – Seymour Post

89: 1,048 members

6th Place – Herbert Kuhn

Post 253: 1,053 members

5th Place – Speedway Post

500: 1,066 members

4th Place – Lincoln Post

82: 1,115 members

3rd Place – Fort Wayne

Post 47: 1,230 members.

2nd Place – Bloomington

Post 18: 1,358 members.

1st Place, Lafayette Post

11: 1,460 members.

workable.

I would like to congratulate all the newly elected District Commanders and Department Vice Commanders.

I am looking forward to serving you and your members. Some of you I know better than others but when this year is over, if I have done my job, we will know each other very well.

I encourage you to travel your districts often and use your Vice Commanders. I am assuming that you handpicked these Vice Commanders and they had an opportunity to say yes or no. Upon

saying yes they obligated themselves to you and their district members and you have a right to expect them to fulfill that obligation.

Every post in this state deserves to be visited often by district officers and encouraged to work American Legion programs, membership and air any problems they may have. We have a duty to give them all the tools and resources to be successful.

It has often been said that membership is the backbone of The American Legion. How very true this is.

I sometimes wonder if indi-

vidual members realize how important they are. They are a membership number. When large membership numbers in each state department of The American Legion, bind together in a national organization, they have much clout when lobbying Congress to obtain fair and equitable treatment for our veterans. Substantial membership numbers in the Department of Indiana can influence our legislators on veterans’ issues. Promoting membership helps to promote benefits that veterans deserve.

Something Sweet

Familiar faces to countless World War II GIs were the famous Doughnut Dollies from the Salvation Army, here in period garb during the 91st annual Department Convention. Re-enacters have been a part of the convention for several years, and participate to promote the work of the Salvation Army as well as perpetuate an appreciation for its role in history.

First Responders, Communicators,Community Activities Recognized

Since the early days of the organization, the men and women of The American Legion have felt a special kinship with those whose responsibility it is to protect the public. Since the 9/11 Tragedy, that kinship is even more keenly felt because those who have become known as ‘First Responders’ often are on the front lines of the War on Terror.

The Department of Indiana honors the best among those First Responders each year with its Police Officer, Firefighter and EMS Person awards. This year’s awards were presented by Bill Kocher, chairman of the Firefighter and Law & Order Committee.

“The law and order program was a product of Past National Commander John Davis of North Dakota, who recognized the breakdown in respect for law and order in the 1960s and initiated a program that year. In Indiana, we call it the LewisSchmidt Award.

“The Firefighter of the Year award followed the Law Officer of the Year award a decade later, established by Department Convention mandate in 1977. It too, recognizes outstanding public servants who dedicate their lives to the public,” he said, adding “and, recognizing the increasing role played by Emergency Medical Personnel in Homeland Security, a few years ago we expanded the program to honor EMS personal in this program. We are excited about this addition to our awards.”

Lewis Schmidt Award

The 2009 Lewis-Schmidt award went to Patrolman Shane L. Heath, Fort Wayne Police Department; sponsored by American Legion

in the

District.

Four other Districts sponsored candidates for the law enforcement officer award. District winners and their sponsors are:

Operations Lieutenant Michael E. Gully, Griffith Police Department; sponsored by Post 66 in the1st District; Master Patrolman Michael Candiano, Portage Police Department; sponsored by Post 260 in the 2nd District

Lieutenant Donald L. Whitehead, Greentown Police Department; sponsored by Post 6 in the 5th District; and Sergeant Richard Ray Snider, Jr., Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department; sponsored by Post 88 in the 11th District.

Fire Fighter Of The Year Award Nominees from four Districts vied for the Firefighter of the Year Award for 2009, with top honors going to Chief Faron L. Livingston, Bloomington Township Fire Department; sponsored by Post 18 in the 7th District

Other nominees and their sponsors included:

Lieutenant Mike Garrison, Orland Community Volunteer Fire Department; sponsored by Post 423 in the 4th District;

Deputy Chief Paul E. David, Marion Fire Department; sponsored by Post 10 in the 5th District;

And Captain Matthew Boone, Wayne Township Fire Department; sponsored by Post 64 in the 11th District.

EMS Of The Year Award

Two EMS persons were nominated by the Districts. They are:

EMT Brooke L. Norton, Orland Fire Department; sponsored by Post 423 in the 4th District; and

Staff Paramedic Bradley Todd Collins, St. Joseph Hospital; sponsored by Post 6 in the 5th District.

Brooke L. Norton took top honors.

In closing the presentations, Kocher told all the District winners that “each of you represent what we believe are the finest attributes of a public servant. You have received not only the recognition of your community for your professionalism, but you have now received the recognition of a statewide organization that represents nearly 120,000 citizens of Indiana.”

Community Service Award

Eric Baggett, the first chairman of the Community Service Award Committee, presented the 2009 award, saying “Five years ago, we established a special award to recognize the accomplishments and outreach of American Legion Posts in their communities. This award has become one of the most prestigious and meaningful awards we give, not only because it recognizes efforts to serve the community, but also because such efforts form the most solid underpinning of a successful membership program. Those posts that compete in this competition are among the best and the winners are truly outstanding.”

The awards are presented in two categories: Posts with fewer than 500 members and Posts with more than 500 members. The winners are:

In the large post category, East Chicago Allied Post 369 in the First District.

In the small post category, Emilio Albert De La Garza Post 508, also in the First District.

Public Relations Awards

Jeff Carroll, Sr., Chairman of the Public Relations Committee, presented awards that recognized outstanding achievement in communications, to posts for their internal newsletters and to one community newspaper for its demonstrated commitment to the Legion and its concerns.

“We seek to honor the men and women who work to insure that their membership is informed, and that their post programs and policies are well read and understood. We do so by presenting the Wayne L. Talbert Award,” Carroll said.

“We have two categories in the Talbert Award. They are the Small Post category, for posts with 500 members or fewer, and the Large Post category for those with 501 members or more.”

According to Carroll, newsletters are judged on a number of criteria, including: compliance with accepted formats, neatness and cleanliness of the layout, the use of photographs, and the proper use of art and graphics. Other considerations include reporting on statewide and local programs, the coverage of post activities, news versus gossip, editorials, and other articles that serve to motivate post membership.

In the large post category, the Wayne Talbert Award, for the second consecutive year, went to American Legion Post 253 in North Webster.

In the small post category, the winner was American Legion Post 254 in Rockport.

Fourth Estate Award

Carroll went on to present the “most prestigious,

and important, communications awards, the Department’s Fourth Estate Award which recognized excellence in reporting on issues of concern to Legionnaires and veterans, in both the print and broadcast media.”

The 2009 Fourth Estate Award was presented to The Herald of Jasper, Indiana. Bill Powell, Senior Writer on the staff of the Herald, a U.S. Army veteran, accepted the award from Commander Tolan.

HALPA Awards

Carroll also introduced the President of the Hoosier American Legion Press Association, Stanley Nawlewski, and Danny Rice, to present the HALPA awards, saying to the delegates “telling The American Legion Story is not optional: it is our lifeblood. Publicity and promotion build membership, establish goodwill, and provide a real service to many veterans who otherwise might have no idea how their best interests are served by veterans’ organizations.

“Throughout the history of The American Legion, nothing has been more important to our success than communication, not only with the public, but with and among ourselves.

“It promotes voluntary participation, it warns of threats to our well-being, it honors those who serve, and it lets us know when and where and how to celebrate.

That is the purpose of communication, and the post newsletters are the means to achieving it. Two awards were presented: The President’s Award which went to Andy Graham and the Secretary’ Award, which was presented to Bunny Maynard.

A Commander’s Challenges Too Great To Be Taken On Alone

Robert Newman Department Commander

I am very proud today, not only of having reached this milestone, but also of the countless Legionnaires who made it possible. I humbly accept, with deep gratitude, the high office of Department Commander to which you have elected me … and you have my solemn pledge that I will honor and respect this office and return it to you in the fine condition it has been handed to me.

Ralph Tolan has set a high standard for Commanders, and I would like to congratulate him for his service and his leadership.

No one gets here alone. We all know that. Among those who are most responsible for me being here are those who gave up time with me so I could devote myself to the work of the Legion. They are my wife and children, and of course, others in the family who believed in me, encouraged me, and supported me. There are the men and women of my Post and the 3rd District who have stood behind me all these years, too.

The perfect recipe for success in The American Legion is loyal friendship, consistent encouragement, a heart for service – and hard work. I have had all of that, over the years, especially from my fellow Legionnaires at Garrett’s Post 178.

They encouraged me to take a leadership role in the Post. They prepared me to lead in the District and gave the opportunity. And still more people like them, throughout the District and the Department, helped me to believe that this day, would someday be a reality.

I am grateful for their friendship and encouragement, and I will continue to turn to them for advice and assistance as we face the tough challenges ahead of us

this year.

As I set out to face these challenges, I am encouraged to know I will not have to face them alone. Aside from the thousands of Legionnaires who will work with me, I know that the men and women of the Sons of The American Legion and The American Legion Auxiliary will also be at my side. It is this connection that inspired my theme for this year: “Anchored to the Past …sailing into the Future.”

The future of our great organization depends on a single, overriding factor: Membership. That is an old tune, and one you’ve heard sung over and over again. I wish we didn’t have to sing it this year. I would rather

focus our energies on legislation of concern to Hoosier veterans … Americanism programs necessary to the development of good character in young Hoosiers … and service to our comrades in need.

But without a growing and vigorous membership, those interests which lie at the core of our values will suffer and our communities, state and the nation will be the worse for it. Membership, I remind you, is not about counting heads or bulging bank accounts. It is about providing the manpower to influence society at every level of our experience -- and doing for our comrades in need what we would have them do for

us if the roles were reversed. I encourage you to keep that in mind as my membership team and I travel around the state. We will talk about membership. We will encourage more and more and more—and you may well get tired of hearing about it -- but we will refrain from talking about membership to only those in whom we have no confidence. I don’t know of anyone in the Department of Indiana who fits that description. So, you all will hear from us. No one could succeed in this office without such able and reliable support and assistance that comes from the entire Legion Family. This year, with capable leaders at the helms of the Sons of The American Legion and the Auxiliary, we will work hand-in-hand toward common goals. Together we will maintain and reinvigorate the sense of patriotism among our fellow citizens, and together we will grow

and prosper.

As we go through this year, I will ask for hard work, commitment, and determination. I also will ask you, from time to time, to support my special project for this year, which would provide new mobility for the patients and staff at two of Indiana’s premier VA Health Care facilities – Fort Wayne and Marion.

The campuses there continue to sprawl, and the number of veterans they serve continues to grow, while moving about has become increasingly a challenge.

I want to rise to that challenge. To that end, my project is to provide a pair of golf cart-style transporters to each of those facilities. The vehicles are not cheap, but

Short Takes

A Cup Of Kindness Raised To Veterans

The 2009-2010 theme for the Department of Indiana American Legion Auxiliary is “Raise a Cup of Kindness to our Veterans and our Communities.”

It is my sincere hope that everyone in our organization extends a hand of kindness to everyone they meet. As per the original purpose of our organization, this year we will be striving to help the veterans, no matter whether they are currently serving, or injured, or retired.

I have four projects this year and three of them relate to helping the veteran.

The first is in conjunction with the American Legion, we will be joining our monies to purchase “golf-cart” type vehicles for the VA facilities at Fort Wayne and at Marion.

The second is at Indiana Veterans Home, where we will be donating money toward purchasing individual radios that connect to a central system call Home Companion. This system plays old-time radio programs and older style music that the residents really enjoy.

The third is a fairly new, but well needed, idea called Sew Much Comfort, a program in which volunteers

First Day On The Job

Tansel Takes Command Of Indiana Detachment

Janet Barnaby Auxiliary President

make from scratch or alter ready-made clothing that adapts to any injury, and is done so as to lessen the shock to the eye of the beholder – all at no cost to the veteran. We will help provide some much need monies to this company.

The fourth project is in the area of Hoosier Girls State, for which we plan to purchase a laptop computer and printer for use in the newspaper room. None of these goals are extremely high priced but all are very much needed; hopefully they can all be accomplished.

I am hoping to meet and greet lots of you at the upcoming “Knightstown Memorial Day” on The American Legion Mall behind our headquarters building September 13. Don’t be shy about coming up to me and extending your hand. I want to meet you and am very excited about having this opportunity to do so.

Steven A. Tansel is Indiana’s newest Detachment Commander of the Sons of The American Legion. He was elected unanimously during the Detachment’s 46th Annual Convention held in Merrillville June 26, 27 and 28, 2009.

The new Commander is a member of Speedway Squadron 500 situated in the state’s 11th District. He is a 20-year member of the Sons of The American Legion.

In the years prior his election, Tansel served in several key leadership positions at the Squadron, District, and Detachment levels, most recently serving as Squadron Commander, District Adjutant, and Detachment Finance Officer.

He has also served as Detachment Historian, Detachment Southern Vice Commander and several chairmanship positions, including the Detachment Americanism Commission.

In addition to his membership in the Sons of The American Legion, he is an 18year member of Martinsville American Legion Post 230 in the 7th District, earning his eligibility for membership in The American Legion through his own honorable service in the United States Army as a Desert Storm era veteran.

He is a Past Post Adjutant of Martinsville Post 230 and is a Past 7th District American Legion Vice Commander.

Indiana’s new Detachment Commander is a senior member of the Indiana Army National Guard, having served nearly 22 years. In July 2007, he was promoted to the rank of Master Sergeant (E-8). In his military capacity, Master Sergeant Tansel is the Senior NonCommissioned Officer of the Data Processing Installation, serving as the Information Systems Chief, Joint Forces Headquarters, Indiana National Guard.

Commander Tansel has a long history of volunteer service. In addition to his Sons of The American Legion and American Legion membership, he is also a proud member of the 40&8, the Loyal Order of Moose, and a supporter of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Commander Tansel has been married to the former Suzanne Teague for 13 years.

I do not intend to use one penny of the Department of Indiana’s resources to provide them. I will depend on your generosity and my own persuasive skills to raise the funds necessary to provide these transporters.

I already have asked the editor of the Hoosier Legionnaire to set aside some space in an upcoming issue so you can see what we are providing to the veterans at those facilities. I will count on you to come through. I know you will.

I say again: Thank you for your vote of confidence, and for giving me this opportunity to serve as your Commander. I am ready for the challenges and I know that I am not alone.

Commander Deploys Hoosier Legionnaire

State Commander Bob Newman and Department Membership Chairman Jerry Jordon recently joined Avon Post 145 in saying goodbye to an Indiana National Guard Unit deploying from Camp Atterbury.

That afternoon, Commander Newman carried with him copies of the latest Hoosier Legionnaire for the Hoosier soldiers to read. It occurred to us that one of the many things the Department of Indiana could do to bring a little bit of home to our deployed Hoosiers would be to send each and every issue to all our soldiers deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan.

As many of you remember while you were deployed, you always craved any mention of activities going on at home regardless of whether it was a sectional basketball tourney or a local church fish fry. Sending our Hoosier Legionnaire would go a long way to show our current GIs that they share a lot in com-

Stephen W. Short Department

mon with all of us who have gone on before and that The American Legion is an organization with which they can identify and trust.

Needless to say, Commander Newman instructed the staff to forge ahead with this idea. I have put in a call to Indiana Adjutant General Martin Umbarger asking that his office supply us with the mailing address of each unit headquarters so that we may send each and every issue of the Hoosier Legionnaire to our troops without commitment or obligation. We simply want to do our part to send as much ‘home’ to our warriors as we can. We also plan to place a membership application in each and every issue from now on.

Practice Of Faith Can Be A Bitter Pill

Due to the lack of uniforms that accommodated my huge frame, it was a good thing that I served my war years in the tropics. We always rolled our sleeves up when we wore shirts and my pants ended at the top of my boots (when I had boots). Had I served in a place like Korea, I would have frozen to death by exposure. Perhaps in some ways I had an advantage in the tropic heat with my Capri length camos as Uncle Sam’s “one size fits all” never seemed to fit any size!

The tropic climate was not without its own unique perils. Often it was the tiny insignificant things that could cause the most harm. While we were always on the lookout for poisonous centipedes and snakes along with gangs of leeches when you went in the water, it was a much smaller insect that could cause greater havoc— the mosquito.

Nearly every helmet sported a bottle of repellent under the inner tube band. That oily mixture burned our skin throughout the night, especially with the sweat, rashes and acne that plagued us. Yet, it did manage to keep a few of those mosquitoes away. Usually we would delay putting on the repellent as long as we could, hop-

ing for a breeze. I learned that the best way to catch a “skeeter” was to let it get its beak down solid in my flesh and just as it started its first sip, I could smack it and kill it. This was a movement that could only be performed behind the lines since on O. P. (observation post) the slap could get you killed.

Unlike the puny North American skeeter, which is a pesky bantamweight nuisance, the tropics produced some major heavyweights. Not only could they leave a real “goose egg,” they often carried microscopic friends in their cargo hold. While one of my men was sent to Yokosuka, Japan, with seven kinds of parasites in his blood, malaria was the more common gift of the tropical mosquito.

To prevent malaria, the Navy Corpsmen gave us special pills. In our region we received a large orange “horse pill” every Monday. These pills brought a side effect that caused intestinal

Adjutant

A tradition for newly elected Department Commander’s is the Sunday morning reception and continental breakfast during which delegates and their guests can meet and greet the Commander and, if they are lucky, get a Commander’s cap pin. Allen and Vee Titus were among the guests who stopped by to congratulate Commander Newman and his wife Rosie.

Editor’s Note: Newly Elected Department Commander Robert E. Newman penned his acceptance speech in the small hours of the night shortly before his election. The sentiments expressed in these remarks prompted many requests for copies of the speech, so here it is in its entirety as his first message to Hoosier Legionnaires.