2007 October The Hoosier Legionnaire

Surprises, Dignitaries Highlight Fall Conference

Somerville Hosts National Commander, Educators; Players and Volunteers Honored; Membership Program Gets A Boost At Annual Autumn Meetings

(Related Stories -Pages 3,8,9)

Department Commander

Tom Somerville presided over a Fall Conference in early October marked by the surprise visit of National Commander Martin Conatser and a bevy of distinguished guests, Legion and non-Legion alike.

Commander Conatser, originally scheduled to tour the Department beginning the Monday following the conference, found his schedule in shambles and opted to spend the conference weekend in Indianapolis instead. He visit-

ed with Hoosier Legionnaires during the welcoming reception, visited commission and committee meetings, and attended Commander Somerville’s “Hobo Jungle” conference party.

“I think it speaks well for the Department that the National Commander would choose to spend extra time here,” said Somerville, who, along with NECman Darrell Hansel escorted Conatser throughout the weekend.

“I think he has a pretty good idea of what ‘Hoosier Hospitality’ means,” Somerville said.

For his part, Commander Conatser told members of the Department Executive Committee that “Indiana does it right.” His comments came in the regular meeting following

the conference.

He was referring not only to the programs and educational activities that were discussed and evaluated during the conference, but also to the membership program and the innovative District Headquarters Post program launched in 2007.

“I was skeptical about the program when I heard about it last year,” Conatser told District Headquarters Post Task Force Chairmen in their meeting Oct. 6.

“But after attending your meeting last spring and hearing what you have accomplished so far this year, I am impressed. I think it’s going to succeed.”

In addition to the National Commander, the Fall Conference featured a special pre-

sentation to a distinguished Hoosier educator and some give-and-take by the Commissioner of the Indiana High School Athletic Association.

Dr. Gerald Lamkin, President Emeritus of Ivy Tech Community College, accepted the Distinguished Service Award from Commander Somerville and Department Judge Advocate Joseph T. Bumbleburg. The award was originally scheduled for presentation at the 89th annual Department Convention in July, but Lamkin was unavailable at the time.

“This man has done more for the education of veterans that any other educator in the state of Indiana,” Bumbleburg told the conferees. Lamkin was responsible for transforming the former technical

Erroneous Letter

Alarms Members; Quickly Corrected

Potentially thousands of expired members of the Indiana Department of American Legion recently received letters erroneously advising them that their veterans’ benefits had expired.

All For One

Members of the Indiana Delegation to the 89th Annual National Convention in Reno, NV, lined up in support of Illinois’ candidate for National Commander, Martin Conatser. Following Conatser’s nomination, supporters marched and demonstrated in favor of his election for approximately 20 minutes before the votes were cast. Indiana delegates voted unanimously to support Conatser during thir pre-convention caucus.

National Commander Urges Passage Of 2008 Military Funding Request

The National Commander of The American Legion, which remains the nation’s largest veterans organization is urging Congress to swiftly pass the $196.4 billion funding request by the Commander in Chief for Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.

“Don't nickel and dime the men and women you placed in harm's way," Marty Conatser told Members of Congress responsible for funding the Global War on Terror.

“Our troops have their hands full fighting for their lives and don't have time for the kind of 'political gamesmanship' that the Command-

er in Chief and the military leadership are having to endure,” he said.

“Congress’ attitude that our troops in harm’s way will have to wait until next year to receive much needed funds for ongoing operations, to repair or replace damaged equipment, or and pay for medical care and transition assistance for injured service members is more than irresponsible,” Conatser said. “It’s wrong!”

It’s time for the rhetoric on Capitol Hill to stop,” he said.

“Our troops aren’t running for political office. They just want the resources to do their jobs.”

The American Legion adopted Resolution 169 mandating full support for the Commander in Chief, the military leadership, and, most importantly, the service members.

“The Global War on Terror is not about partisan politics, it is about the survival of freedom,” Conatser explained.

“To the leadership of Congress, my message is very simple: pass the 2008 War Funding Request," he said.

The American Legion was founded in 1919 on the four pillars of a strong national security, veterans affairs, Americanism, and patriotic youth programs.

Mailed as part of the National Organization’s regular Direct Membership Solicitation program early in October, the letters were sent to more than 840,000 former members who last paid dues in 2006.

The colorful multi-page packages contained a letter which read, in part, “…benefits you are entitled to as a veteran of the United States Army (or other branch of the service) have lapsed.” In addition, the carrier envelope and other items in the package included the erroneous warning.

It should have read “benefits you are entitled to as a member of The American Legion ...” The National Adjutant of The American Legion reacted swiftly, directing the contractor who prepared and distributed the material to correct the mis-statement, advising all Department and National officers across the country, and distributing a notice directly to all former members on the mailing list.

“The mistake occurred due to an electronic editing mistake by a long-term contractor of The American Legion,” wrote Robert W. Spanogle.

“The opening paragraph contained variable infor-

school system into Indiana’s first community college network, and advocating for better access by veterans, according to Bumbleburg.

The Distinguished Service Award, the Legion’s highest honor, is presented in recognition of outstanding service by a member of The American Legion. Lamkin is a 40-year member of Rising Sun American Legion Post 59.

Blake Ress, IHSAA commissioner, attended the Baseball Committee and Baseball Executive Committee meetings to defend the association’s controversial rule which limits the number of athletes from one high school who can play American Legion Baseball. According to Baseball Chairman Owen Wells, the

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As the game unfolds, the membership runner in the Department of Indiana continues to advance. Having rounded second – the halfway point -- the runner is now nearing the 65 percent on his way to third base and 75 percent of goal. The heavy hitters on the Legion membership team are being called on by manager Tommy Somerville to make every swing count toward a new membership high. That means renew every member, and sign up every vet! (Keep track of the runner’s progress in each issue of the Hoosier Legionnaire this year.)

mation to tailor the letter to match the veteran’s branch of service. The letters were sent only to former Legionnaires whose memberships had expired prior to 2007. These letters were not mailed to current members who may be in the process of renewing,” he continued.

Several Post officers contacted the Department about the correspondence, and the issue was a topic of considerable discussion during the October 5-6 Fall Conference in Indiana. Post and County Service Officers reported a small number of members resigning over what they had mistaken as a ploy to frighten former members into action. No such purpose was intended, Spanogle said in his letter to the expired members.

“We made a mistake. … We deeply regret this mistake and the confusion it caused. Your state and federal veterans benefits have not lapsed (emphasis in the original). The American Legion is dedicated to assuring that all veterans received the benefits they have earned and are due through honorable service in the US military.”

Post officers and others who encounter members who were affected by this letter are encouraged to clarify the circumstances and encourage members to continue to renew their memberships in The American Legion.

CWF Is Somerville Project

Foundation Lists Grants To Aid Nation’s Children

The American Legion Child Welfare Foundation, in its 53rd year, has awarded $530,700 to 18 non-profit organizations. These grants, determined during the annual meeting of the Board of Directors, held at the Sheraton Hotel City Centre in Indianapolis, Indiana Sunday, October 14, 2007, have been awarded to support worthwhile projects through the dissemination of information to the general public and specific target groups.

Indiana Department Commander Tom Somerville, a long-time Legion Baseball manager and leader, has selected the CWF as the beneficiary of his special fund-raising activities this year.

“I’ve always enjoyed kids, even though I don’t have any.

That’s why I coached baseball. I always enjoyed being around them,” Somerville told the Hoosier Legionnaire.

“What I want is for every Post in the Department of Indiana to put a Child Welfare Foundation canister on display somewhere in the Post. I want every penny we can get dropped into that canister, and I want every donation from every Post and District to come directly to me for our Department’s contribution. We will be one of the greatest partners in Child Welfare that foundation ever had.”

Following is a brief summary of the grants awarded for 2008:

American Legion Children’s Home of Ponca City, Okla-

Following the election of a career National Guard veteran from Champaign, Ill., to the office of National Commander, a Hoosier Legionnaire from Indianapolis was named National Historian.

Jim Holmes, a member of Speedway Post 500 and longtime Department Historian, was confirmed by the National Executive Committee to serve a one-year term with Martin F. Conatser who was unanimously elected by Delegates to The American Legion’s 89th National Convention in Reno, Nevada.

Conatser retired from the National Guard in 1996 as a sergeant major. He is a member of Lincoln American Legion Post 102 in DeLand, Ill., and has served in many leadership roles during his 25 years as a member of The American Legion.

He has served as District, Division and Department Membership Director and Commander. At the national level, he was a long-time member of the Membership and Post Activities Committee before being named chairman in 2003. During 2004 and 2005 he chaired the National Legislative Commission.

Conatser lives in Champaign, Ill., with his wife, Sharon. They are the parents of three boys, Richard, Rick, and Bryan. Two daughters-in-law, a grandson, and two granddaughters are all members of The American Legion family.

The new commander took the oath of office along with five other national officers on the platform of the National Convention -- National Vice Commanders Thomas L. Burns, Jr. of Ocean View, Delaware; Peggy G. Dettori of Kodiak, Alaska; Randall A. Fisher of Louisville, Kentucky; Donald J. Hayden of Kilkenny, Minnesota; and David A. Korth, of Marshfield, Wisconsin.

Along with National Historian Holmes, the NEC approved the appointment of National Sergeant at Arms Denver Ray Phelps of Ogden, Illinois and National Chaplain Rev. Elliott Laurence Foss, Jr. of Kingsland, Georgia.

Hoosier Holmes Joins Conatser As National Officer

Martin Conatser National Commander 2007-2008

Standing In… Standing Up

Northern Vice Commander Jack Cook, representing Commander Tom Somerville, and Indiana Auxiliary Department President Judy Butler placed the World War I ceremonial wreathe at the annual POW/MIA Recognition Day in Indianapolis last month. The ceremony, held on the steps of the Indiana World War Memorial, featured the 38th Infantry (ING) Band, remarks by former prisoners of war, and a flyover by a squadron of Apache helicopters.

Child Welfare

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homa was awarded $64,000 for its project titled “American Legion Children’s Home National Awareness Initiative.” This grant will produce DVDs, brochures and a website in support of a national campaign to raise awareness and funds for the children’s home. The American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of The American Legion sponsor this grant.

American Humane Association of Englewood, Colorado was awarded $24,879 for their project titled “Exploring Differential Response.” This grant will produce and distribute 7,500 copies of the Protecting Children journal. The Sons of The American Legion sponsors this grant.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of McHenry County, Inc. of McHenry, Illinois was awarded $24,351 for their project titled “Mentoring Answer Book.” This grant will produce and distribute the Mentoring Answer Book and the Mentoring Handbook for Parents to 2,034 mentoring agencies throughout the nation. The American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of The American Legion sponsor this grant.

Childhood Leukemia Foundation of Brick, New Jersey was awarded $42,000 for their project titled “Hope Binders.” This grant will produce and distribute binders, with templates and support materials, to 140 pediatric oncology hospitals throughout the United States to help families begin to feel some degree of control over devastating circumstances.

Children’s Hunger Alliance of Columbus, Ohio was awarded $20,000 for their project titled “CARES Project.” This grant produces

and distributes two hundred CARE kits to family child care providers nationwide. These kits provide the tools child care workers need to provide children with quality early learning experiences.

Family & Children’s Service of Minneapolis, Minnesota was awarded $40,000 for their project titled “Family Strengths Toolkit.” This grant will produce and distribute a fun, interactive printed publication that will provide children and families with opportunities to spend time together while learning what makes them strong as a family.

Give Kids The World of Kissimmee, Florida was awarded $14,700 for their project titled “Dream & Go Guides: Handbooks for Happiness.” This grant will produce and distribute Dream & Go Guides to ensure that the one-week stay of children with life-threatening illnesses and their families is the vacation of a lifetime that provides joy and memories that endure long term.

Kids In Danger of Chicago, Illinois was awarded $16,400 for their project titled “Safe from the Start.” This grant will produce and distribute child safety materials (brochures, checklists and newsletters) to health care professionals, childcare providers and parents nationwide.

Mercy Medical Airlift of Virginia Beach, Virginia was awarded $43,000 for their project titled “Child Health Program.” This grant will develop and modernize five websites providing information to the public and the pediatric medical world regarding available charitable child patient long distance medical air transportation. The American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of The American Legion sponsor this grant.

National Ability Center of

Hoosier Legionnaire October 2007

Conference

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rule hits particularly hard at rural teams.

“When you only have one high school in an area, Legion teams in the area are hard pressed to find enough qualified players to field a team under this rule. It really does threaten the future of American Legion Baseball,” he said.

The Commissioner Ress and the committee did not reach an agreement on the rule, but did agree to maintain communication and continue to evaluate the issue. Former Baseball Committee Chairman Joe Rivich handled the honors in presenting baseball awards for 2006-2007. He introduced the Baseball Scholarship winner, Nathan Line, sponsored by Byron Cox Post 72 in the 6th District, the A.D. Phillips Sportsmanship Award winner, Christopher Wanty, who

Park City, Utah was awarded $9,600 for their project titled the “Summer Camp Brochures” This grant will produce and distribute 12,000 brochures to educate parents of the quality summer camps and year-round programs designed to meet the special needs of children with disabilities. The Sons of The American Legion sponsors this grant.

National Autism Center of Randolph, Massachusetts was awarded $39,150 for their project “Implementing Evidence-based Educational Interventions for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in School Settings.” This grant will produce and distribute a publication targeted to provide schools systems with a tool that will enable them to more effectively serve students with ASD within their school systems.

National Exercise Trainers Association of Minneapolis, Minnesota was awarded $25,870 for their project titled “Fitness for Today’s Youth.” This grant will produce and distribute manuals and journals through schools, Boys and Girls Clubs and YMCAs to educate, motivate and reinforce the concept of healthy, active lifestyles.

National Exchange Club Foundation of Toledo, Ohio was awarded $39,866 for their project titled: “Believe in the Blue Campaign.” This grant will produce and distribute materials (parenting cards, posters, fact sheets, public service announcements, ads and press releases) designed to provide families across the nation with tips on positive parenting.

National Indian Child Welfare Association of Portland, Oregon was awarded $24,625 for their project titled: “Ensuring the Seventh Generation: Youth Suicide Prevention Toolkit.” This grant will produce and distribute toolkits to guide tribal child welfare workers and programs throughout the United States in implementing early suicide prevention and intervention methods. The American Legion Auxiliary sponsors this grant.

played for Post 9 in Madison in the Ninth District, and the Arlie Skelton Award winner, from American Legion Post 20 in Crown Point, Tony Samano.

Another highlight of the conference was a presentation by Deputy Director of the National Organization’s Americanism and Children & Youth Division, Bill Pease.

Pease is the primary staff member assigned to the Child Welfare Foundation, a multi-million dollar foundation that provides grants to organizations dedicated to the interests of children.

Department Commander Somerville introduced Pease with a special appeal.

“As many of you know, I have been actively involved in the youth programs of The American Legion throughout my Legion career. It should come as no surprise, then, that I selected for my special project an organization that serves the children of our nation in a very special way –The American Legion’s Child

Welfare Foundation.

“We are fortunate to have with us this morning a member of the National Organization’s Americanism and Children and Youth Division who has among his many duties the administration of the Child Welfare Foundation. He is here to help all of us better understand the Foundation and its goals for America’s youth.”

Pease described the work of the foundation and the process of selecting grantees, alnong with a list of the applicants being considered for 2007. (See list of grants elsewhere on this page.)

The commander’s right hand man for membership, Bob Sutton, told conferees that the membership program for 2007-2008 was successfully underway, but he encouraged all members to renew their commitment to rebuilding the membership base.

“As of the latest membership report, (October 2, 2007), we were less than 1,671 mem-

bers behind this time last year. As you know, our goal for this weekend is 65 percent: that’s 72,500 members, based on our department goal of 111,000. I am confident that we will hit that goal this target date. In fact, the commander and I are confident our Districts will all attain their 100 percent goal this year. The important thing, though, is that we all push on past that mark once it is achieved,” Sutton reported.

Sutton also reminded members of his special incentive program, in which successful recruiters can earn a specially designed jacket.

“I am particularly excited about the jackets that we are giving to our successful recruiters this year. All it takes to earn one is to sign up eight new members. You can earn as many of the jackets as you can sign up new members, and you can use them for incentives for your local membership team. Already, 20 Legionnaires have earned the jacket,” he said.

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 AA, Number 5 October 2007

Circulation 120,000

Printed by the Herald-Times, Bloomington, IN

Our Military Kids, Inc. of McLean, Virginia was awarded $33,800 for their project titled “Our Military Kids Informational Materials Phase II.” This grant will produce a quarterly newsletter and develop a dynamic, user-friendly website to assist in making essential extracurricular activities, including tutoring, available to the school-aged children of deployed and severely injured Reserve and National Guard personnel. The American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of The American Legion sponsor this grant.

TechMission of Dorchester, Massachusetts was awarded $5,000 for their project titled “Safe Families.”

The Americanism Commission met at 4:10 P.M. Saturday, October 6, 2007, in Salon B of the Marriott Hotel during the Fall 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; National Liaison Rep. John Hayes, Committee Chairmen: Owen Wells, Baseball; Shannon McCroskey, Bowling; Richard Motsinger, National Security/Foreign Affairs; and Martin Dzieglowicz, POW/ MIA.

Those absent included Committee Chairmen Gary Stiles, Golf; Larry Horvath, SAL. Baseball Executive Committee

Next year’s athletic calendar rolls back to the first Saturday in August. Post 20 won state but had to face player suspension and did not play in regional due to players playing beyond the August 1 deadline.

Many schools are fearful to play for being reprimanded if players play beyond the August 1 deadline. Due to the ISHAA having to make a “blanket” rule that would cover all sports, they will not make an individual sport rule allowing players to play until the team is eliminated when the player is playing with a national program.

It was suggested a player has to play at least 80 percent of the sport at their high school in order to be allowed to play in the sectional game. The committee would like to take legislative action against the ISHAA rule 15.2-2.

A discussion of ISHAA rule regarding the five players from one school limit on Legion baseball team was addressed by Blake Ress.

Baseball Indiana state tournament took place in Boonville with Bristol winning. The State Final was hosted by Madison and Rockport won. At National Regional, Rockport went undefeated and moved on to

the World Series in Bartleville, OK. Columbia, TN won the World Series, but in the last two years Indiana teams participated in the World Series.

The National meeting will be the first weekend of November. A rules meeting was set with the Chairman of ISHAA for December 1, 2007, at 1:00 p.m. with lunch preceding at noon.

Bowling Chairman Shannon McCroskey reports the bowling tournament will be held in Richmond February 21 -March 21, 2009.

Golf Tournament Manager Bob Miller spoke on the upcoming tourney, June 21-22, 2008. Tee times will be 7:00am-1:00 p.m. Friday practice rounds will be $25.00. All the golf tourney information can be found on the Department website. Tournament will be played at Bridgewater East & West in Auburn, IN.

National Security/ Foreign Affairs

Posts can sponsor a program and become a Community Emergency Response Team holding/staging area and all equipment is provided by Homeland Security.

POW/MIA

The traveling Vietnam Wall was in Yorktown October 815, 2007. Columbus held a POW/MIA Recognition Day on September 22, 2007, and a POW/MIA flag was raffled off. Several reports were made available for members regarding identifying of remains from WWII. DNA from surviving family members is needed in Hawaii. The 20th Anniversary of the “Run For The Wall” is coming up May 2008. A motion was made for naming street names for KIA/ POW/MIA. The motion was seconded and passed.

S.A.L.

The 2nd District motioned to put a line item of $100 into next year’s budget to purchase two plaques for the District and the Squadron that makes the largest donation to the Child Welfare Fund. The motion was seconded and approved.

reHaBiLiTaTiOn

Dick Jewell chairman

The Rehabilitation Commission met at 4:15 p.m. Saturday, October 6, 2007, in Salon E of the Marriott Hotel during the Fall Conference.

Chairman Dick Jewell opened the meeting in proper form. Roll call disclosed the following members present: Chairman, Dick Jewell; Vice Chairman, Rick Hudson; Homeless Veterans: Harold “Robbie” Robinson, Indiana Veterans Home, and Gary Danekas, Nursing Home; Cecil Brummett, Veterans Assistance; David Heath.

Those absent included Vice Chairman Walter Bode; Commander’s Representative, James Koutz; Natl. Liaison Rep, Ted Stenger; Employment, James Piepenbrok, General Hospital, Ray Nunweiler.

Employment Committee

Visitor Daniel Archer spoke on County official training, and Federal and State Government funding for the training. Packets were distributed with criteria for awards. Find employers who work with veterans and have a workforce that is 10 percent veterans. Submit names for awards to John Hickey by the Mid-Winter Conference. John talked about helping one another as veterans, and making it the Employment Committee’s assignment to find nominees for each employment award. Need to have LVERs at Camp

The Children & Youth Commission met at 4:15 p.m. Saturday, October 6, 2007 in Salon C at the Marriott Hotel during the Fall Conference.

Chairman Leland Baxter opened the meeting in proper form. Roll call disclosed the following members present: Vice Chairman Rodney Strong, Vice Chairman Al Pulido, along with the following Committee Chairmen: Americanism and Government Robert Bach, American Legion Family Scholarship Clyde Colgrove representing Charlie Wier, Boy Scouts Stan Gatewood, Boys State Enrollment Terry Pierson, Children & Youth Bob Ripley, Flag Education/Etiquette Ronald Taylor, Girl Scouts Joe Komenda representing Gail Galich, Junior Shooting Sports Ida Jewell, Knightstown Home Jerry Jordon, and Oratorical Fred Langley. National Liaison Representative James Delaney had an excused absence.

American Legion Family Scholarship Committee

A motion was made and approved to ask the Department Executive Committee for permission to solicit donations of $100 from all posts, units, and squadrons for the scholarship fund. A thank you letter from one of last year’s winners was read to the committee.

Americanism & Government Committee

As of the Fall Conference weekend, 4,193 senior tests and 3,744 junior tests had been ordered. Chairman Bach encouraged all chairmen to contact the post chairmen to get involved. Winners will be selected at the Midwinter Conference.

A motion was made and approved to allow a German exchange student to take the test. Another motion was made and approved to have members of the committee travel to Kentucky to help initiate this program in their state.

A letter of appreciation was presented to the committee from an award winner. The committee will draft a resolution to make the Americanism and Government program a National program. Chairman Bach encouraged all chairmen to publicize the program in their local newspapers.

Boy Scouts Committee

A motion was made and passed for Eagle Scout of the Year applications to be judged at the Boy Scouts of America Headquarters on March 15, 2008 at 9:00 a.m.

ciate director. Trifolds and applications for Boys State were made available to the district chairmen. Chairmen should notify Susan Long at the Department Headquarters regarding orientation dates and delegate packets.

The Outstanding Citizen from the 2007 Hoosier Boys State was elected Vice President of Boys Nation. Director Bowman is negotiating terms for the DVD production for next year. Department Commander Thomas Somerville would like all sponsors thanked formally, by letter or in person. Chairman Pierson had addressed the Board of Directors regarding an atlarge program as well as solicitation of outside companies for sponsorship but no action will be taken at this time.

Fifth District Chairman suggested all districts increase number of alternates to decrease number of noshows. Another suggestion was made to have chairmen call delegates a week prior to the program to confirm attendance. Director Bowman has established communication between schools and post chairmen. He suggested candidates do not have to be the top of their class if they have sincere interest in government.

Orientation DVDs are available from Susan Long at the Department Headquarters in quantities smaller than twenty. Minutes of the committee will be emailed to district chairmen.

Children & Youth Committee

Leland Baxter, Children & Youth Commission Chairman, reported on the National Children and Youth Conference in Indianapolis.

Operation Military Kids is operated by the 4-H group. Steve McKinley is the Indiana Chairman for this program. His phone number is 765-4948435. One of their activities was to assemble backpacks with supplies for children of deployed parents.

Chairman Baxter described the Josh and Friends project which provides stuffed puppies and comfort to children in the hospital. The American Legion is a partner in the program. Dogs may be purchased to support the program. Additional information is available at http://www.joshandfriends.com/index.php.

inTernaL aFFairs

robert newman chairman

The Internal Affairs Commission met on October 6, 2007 during the Fall Conference at the Marriott Hotel East at 4:15 in Salon D.

Chairman Robert Newman opened the meeting in proper form. Roll call disclosed the following members present:

Chairman Newman, Vice

Chairman J. David Morrow, Vice Chairman Mary York, American Legion Riders Keith “Dawg” Jones, Community Involvement Eric Baggett, Firefighter/Law & Order Chairman John Wrolen, Legislative

Chairman Danny Rice, Membership Chairman Bob Sutton, New Post Development /Revitalization Mike Davis.

Roll call disclosed the following members absent: National Liaison Rep. John Pipher, Convention Contests Chairman James May, Public Relations Chairman Jeff Carroll and Religious Emphasis Chairman Norris Keirn.

American Legion Riders

National Commander Marty Conatser briefly addressed the meeting. Commander Conatser was very complimentary and supportive of The Indiana American Legion Riders.

Indiana State American Legion Riders Director Bob Schnell read the finalized Constitution and By-Laws. A motion was made to accept as read. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.

Chairman Jones will submit and request that Department Headquarters approve as well.

Department Assistant Adjutant Hugh Dagley was in attendance and congratulated the Indiana Riders and stated that the Indiana American Legion Riders will serve as a model for other states. Chairman Jones informed all in attendance that there are currently 49 chapters in Indiana with several more in the process. He stated that some districts have begun holding District meetings to organize their chapters. There was some discussion regarding the Home Town Heroes project. The Indiana Riders will plan to assist in anyway they can to support and assist families of military personnel.

Community Involvement

Tenth District Chairman Healy discussed the G.E.D. Scholarship Program in detail.

do any upkeep to help veterans who are currently in Iraq. National Headquarters will reimburse any expenses accrued during this project. Convention Contest motion calling for a Color Guard competition at all Department Conventions was made. The motion was seconded and passed. A motion was made to continue paying for banners, trophies and breakfast for all judges from Department funds. The motion was seconded and passed.

Firefighter/ Law & Order/EMS here was discussion about a resolution that is being written regarding establishing the Firefighter/Law & Order/EMS awards as a National program. Currently, 23 states have the program. The Committee agreed to meet at the MidWinter Conference in January 2008, during which members will be polled for input. There was some discussion as to the need for more participation from districts; more books need to be submitted for judging. Bob Newman reported to the Committee that Commander Somerville would like all 11 districts to be more involved and for each to submit a candidate in all three categories. Books will be distributed at Mid-Winter Conference.

Legislative

National Commander Marty Conatser spoke to the Committee in great detail regarding the Washington trip.

Membership

Atterbury as they will be seeing a lot of veterans coming back from Iraq. Call the veterans to invite them to MidWinter. The VA Funding Bill HR Bill 2640 takes away the right of veterans who have PTSD to have hand guns. Bill already passed the House, now in the Senate. Contact your Congressman. Recommend getting life time permit to carry weapons.

Homeless Veterans

Steve Barnett announced a benefit concert to be held at the Tyndal Armory on the Friday after Thanksgiving to benefit homeless veterans.

John Hickey spoke about the decline of Homeless Veterans Grant applications although the need still exists and the monies are in place. Russ Bensheimer discussed the plight of Homeless Veterans with mental illnesses being turned away at the I.V.H. All should get involved to right this terrible wrong.

Indiana Veterans Home Chairman Danekas introduced Al Titus who read a resolution to have a VA outpatient clinic built on campus at IVH funded by the State. A motion to accept the resolution was made, seconded and passed. A motion was made to purchase 10 special beds and 20 mattresses for a total cost of $17,650. Motion was

Chairman Gatewood stressed the importance of having a correctly spelled and typed application. He recommended the religious award be attained at the Boy Scout and not the Cub Scout level. Age limits should be considered when screening potential candidates. Each district chairman received several copies of the application. Completed applications should be sent to Stan Gatewood directly.

James Henager gave a presentation on the Federation of Scouting Museum and requested memorabilia for the museum. One hundred pins were given to each district to sell for $3.00 each to supplement the scholarship fund.

A Tony Dungy autographed football will be raffled at the Midwinter Conference. Tickets will be sold two for $5.00.

Boys State Enrollment Committee

The committee will meet at the Midwinter conference. The American Legion Hoosier Boys State will be June 14-21, 2008, at Indiana State University. The enrollment fee remains $300 per student. Chairman Pierson notified the committee of Bill Jackson’s resignation and introduced Steve Bowman as the new director of Hoosier Boys State and Gary Twomey as the asso-

The committee discussed the Temporary Financial Assistance available to minor children of veterans. Chairman Ripley explained the Child Welfare Foundation and encouraged members to support the Commander’s project. He also reminded the committee there were only 11 entries for Educator of the Year last year when the potential is 22. The Auxiliary would like everyone to save pop can tabs for the Ronald McDonald House. A motion was made and passed to meet at the Midwinter conference.

Flag Education/Etiquette Committee

Chairman Taylor announced the U.S. Savings Bond was raised from $500 to $1,000 for the state winners. He read a thank you letter from Zach Buhler, 2007 winner. The Americanism Coordinator, Susan Long, will mail out flag education contest information to schools and posts within the next few weeks. The committee decided not to change any of the test questions and to continue picking up tests and comic book orders at the Midwinter Conference.

Girl Scouts Committee

A motion was made and approved to amend the scholarship application to include the new scholarship amounts of $1,000 for the state winner and $200 for the district winners and require proof of reli-

Chairman Baggett discussed scrapbooks. He stated that more districts need to participate and he stressed to the Committee to rally these district to become more involved. Chairman Baggett stated that all districts are to report at Mid-Winter Conference on Posts participating.

Clyde Kerr stated that the districts need to use the local newspapers to get the word out on the program.

Gordon Anthony discussed the Holiday Wishes Program, run by Lt. Governor Skillman. He encouraged everyone in attendance to visit the website at in.gov/lgov and they will send cards and well wishes to Indiana soldiers in Iraq. He informed the Committee that Allen County is requesting a 21st Century Veterans Honor Roll.

He also spoke about Emergency Kits from the Red Cross. For more information regarding this project, contact nagannahs@comcast.net.

Chairman Baggett spoke about the Habitat for Humanity project which wants to build a home for an Indiana veteran. He asked for any skilled or unskilled volunteers for the build. He urged all in attendance to visit the Department of Indiana’s website, as they are still looking for a veteran who qualifies.

Chairman Sutton presented the Committee with the Membership Award jackets and announced the first ever winners. He then asked each district for an update: 1st District reported to the Committee that they are working on the 701 program. 2nd District reported that visitations are in full swing. 3rd District reported that the LaPorte County turn in was a great help. 4th District reported that they are slowly moving up and showing some improvement. 5th District reported their disappointment that they haven’t moved up more than they currently have. 6th District reported that they are currently in 9th place and the 706 program is working well. 7th District reported that they are working hard and December seems to be the best month for them in the past. 8th District reported that all other districts should watch out, their drive arounds are in full swing. 9th District reported that they are disappointed that they have slipped a couple of places. 10th District reported that they have their drive arounds scheduled and will be improving. 11th District reported that their turn out was not a good as expected.

Chairman Sutton gave a recap of previous turn-ins and reported the Department is currently two weeks behind last year. Department Assistant Adjutant Hugh Dagley reported to the committee that we are currently 10,000 members behind, compared to a year ago. He did inform the Committee that club privileges can be restricted to those members belonging only to your post and that a post can deny admittance to 777 members. He is currently working on a DVD presentation to work online for membership. He added that 105 percent by all posts will mean success. Chairman Sutton conveyed to the Committee that the Veterans Day turn-in should be a success because of the October 1 mailing of the third renewal notice.

NEC Darrell Hansel introduced National Commander Marty Conatser to the Committee. He expressed concern Continued

The Legion Riders in the 4th District are having a Hometown Heroes Project to help clean yards, paint houses and

americanism

mike miller chairman

cHiLDren & YOUTH

Leland Baxter chairman

DisTricT 2

Bruce steffen commander

The Second District had a great turnout of Legionnaires at Knightstown. The Second District operated the candy apple/cotton candy stand. It worked out great; and next year will be even better. Thanks go to Larry Lowery and Joe Blackwell on this project. Jeff Mercier, Post 415 Galveston, brought a “Flight Simulator” which turned into a big attraction that day.

As for membership, we are off to a good start. Everyone needs to keep focused and keep working on both renewals and new member procurement.

If you have a National Guard or Reserve Unit near your Post, go visit them. A good day to visit a Unit is on their training day. Set up a booth in the hall and stock it with bottled water and snacks. Be prepared to process their applications using their credit cards by having the member sign the form. You will find that most young soldiers today operate on credit cards. Give your Post a great Christmas Gift: SIGN UP A NEW MEMBER TODAY.

During the month of December, our District Meeting is always held at the Indiana Veteran’s Home in West Lafayette. The home is the “Pride of the Second.” The Sons of the Legion Second District prepare fruit baskets to be distributed to all the residents of the home that day. If your Post sponsors a member at the Veteran’s Home or a child at Knightstown Home, be

sure to remember them this holiday season.

Should your Post decide to make a Christmas Donation to these Legion sponsored homes, please flow the donation through the District to get proper credit for your endeavor. You can send your checks for Knightstown Home to Joseph Blackwell, 2718 LaGuardia, Portage, IN 46368.

You can send your checks for the Veteran’s Home to Larry Lynn, 2413 Superior Avenue, Portage, IN 46368. Better yet, come and present your check in person at any District meeting.

A major part of every District meeting is the “Auction of the Traveling Gavel” for the Rehab Fund. The post who wins the auction gets recognition during the ensuing month by having the award in their post home.

These are only three of the many programs operated within The American Legion. I hope you open up your hearts and help with any monetary support that you can afford.

If your Post has done anything worth acknowledging, please send it to me; and we will put it in the next issue of the Hoosier Legionnaire.

In closing, my current year 2007 is changing into the New Year 2008 which when you think two thousand seveneight rhymes with “Heaven is Great.”

I wish everyone a safe and joyous holiday.

Handing It Over

National Commander Martin Conatser, center, accepts one of two checks presented to him during the Commander’s Tour of Indiana by representatives of North Webster Post 253. The presentation was made during the tour’s stop at the Air National Guard Facility in Fort Wayne. $6,500 went to the Department Rehabilitation Fund, and $1,000 went to Commander Somerville’s project, the Child Welfare Foundation.

Continued from column 2

27, at 9:30 a.m. at the Marshall County Commissioners Office, several individuals were presented military awards and certificates for service to their country. The actual decoration are too numerous to mention, however, the recipients were: Roger L. Alvis, John C. Bradley, Larry D. Clevenger, Lauren Conway, Joseph A. Decavitch, Velvie L. Dominguez, Alis E. Eads, Roderick Fry, Joda J. Hoeffer, Donald H. Milliser, Frank L. Nemeth, James Lee Smith, and John D. Wautelet.

Those in attendance who presented the military awards and certificates were: Mrs. Celina Weatherwax, representing Senator Lugar; Mr. Peter Gehred, representing Congressman Donnelly; Kevin Overmyer, County Commissioner; Jack Roose, County Commissioner; Tom Chamberland, County Commissioner; R. Jim Stapan, Mar-

shall County Veteran Service Officer; Mrs. Paula Babcock, Marshall County Commissioner Secretary; Gary Cook, Mayor, City of Plymouth; and representatives from The American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Congratulations to all these recipients and thank you to R. Jim Stapan for inviting me to this event.

For those of you wishing to receive flu shots, the VA provides flu shots. Please call the South Bend VA Clinic for dates and times when you can receive these shots. Their telephone number is 1-866436-1291.

Each Post should have reached their membership goal of 75 percent on Veterans Day. As of September 26, we were back in third place. Let’s show the Department of Indiana what the Third District can accomplish.

Rest assured .. Here comes the Third!

DisTricT 4

al myers commander

on to do his share in any area you want. Jim presented Roger Baker with $100 for the coke fund down at Knightstown this year from the Jonesboro Post 95 Legion Riders which Jim is a part of also. Jim is also our District Representative for The American Legion race car.

Jack Lynn, newly elected Commander of Wabash Post 15, is no newcomer to being Commander. This is Jack’s 12th time of being Commander of Post 15. His first term was in 1985.

Past Post Commander of Van Buren Post 368, Brent Miller, and his wife Ginny have for about six years put on a fund raiser for the Jessica Lunsford Foundation. This year was no exception. It was held August 11 and they raised around $600 or so which they donated to the Foundation. I know they worked their tail ends off putting this fundraiser together and their hard work paid off in the end. This is for a great cause and certainly does fulfill the Children and Youth Service within the American Legion.

Van Buren Post 368 Auxiliary sponsors a fishing and picnic day for the patients of the Marion VA. The Veterans get to fish for a couple of hours and then are treated to hamburgers and the fixin’s. What a very nice way to thank our veterans for what they went through in keeping our country free! Way to go, girls! Keep it up. Your efforts are very much appreciated.

Our Fifth District Auxiliary President, Sue Comerford, Fifth District Commander Mike Comerford, Past State Auxiliary President Virginia Baker, and some other good hearted volunteers from the Fifth District were seen hard at work dishing out watermelon and cantaloupe to the veterans at the VA Hospital in Marion. The Veterans seemed to really enjoy their treat on a very hot day of summer.

he and the other heroes will remain in our prayers. Godspeed.

Commander Comerford and Past State Commander Roger Baker would like to thank all those good hearted Fifth District Legionnaires who showed up to help out down at Knightstown this year and also to thank all those Posts that gave to the coke fund. The kids appreciate it also. Thank you Legionnaires for all your help.

Roanoke Post 160 is in charge of an annual Fall Parade in Roanoke. Dave Ritenour does the announcing, and Past State SAL Commander Mike Sheets and Past Fifth District Commander Brent Augspurger log the entries in and tells them where to line up. This is a good community event for Roanoke 160 to do. The streets were full this year of parade watchers. The parade had over 70 entries this year. Among the entries this year was the Korean War Veterans formation. They won an award for their entry. God bless them for their service to our country.

One of the judges on the reviewing stand was a young lady who Dave Ritenour determined might be eligible for membership in The American Legion. Before the day was done Dave had asked her if she wanted to join. She indicated she would and Dave is waiting for the 214 and dues money at this time. What is it that Past SAL District Commander Ron Sexton and Past Membership Chairman Ed Trice always say? Just Ask! Well, Dave did and the Legion might just gain another member.

Mack Hubbard of Tipton Post 46, while working as a volunteer over at the Marion VA, fell and injured himself. Our payers are for a speedy recovery for Mack. Get well soon! We in the District are proud of all you do for the veterans at the Marion VA.

Veterans Day is fast approaching and every Post in the Third District should have some type of observation -if not on the 11th of November then on the 10th. I know that Post 68, Argos, is having the “Walk Of Honor” and a prayer at the Post. Post 365 North Liberty is planning on having “Army Stew” prepared by Dewey Thomas, a 63-year member of The American Legion. (It won’t taste like the stew we had in the Army for which we can be thankful). Dewey’s stew is really delicious.

From Post 403, Wanatah, to the west to Post 210, Middlebury, on the East, every Post should show allegiance to those who have served before us and those that are still keeping peace around the world.

On August 14, Hamon Gray American Legion Post 83 donated $500 to Dennis Seidel’s Roof Sit fundraiser for the purpose of providing Christmas gifts to needy children of LaPorte County who my not have a very Merry Christmas otherwise. This was Dennis’s fourth year of “roof sitting” and has raised nearly $45,000 which has and will provide for nearly 500 children.

On August 23, the post donated $150 to the “Shop With a Cop” program. On September 8, the post held a steak fry/corn roast. Proceeds from this function were donated to MOMS, “Mother’s of Military Soldiers” who in turn used the money to mail care packages to the soldiers and sailors serving in the Middle East.

Boy Scout Troop 7 and Faith Mission were the latest groups or organizations to receive financial gifts from Post 210. Also, Post 210 had their Patriot’s Day program on Sept 11 in the town park. Posting the colors were Jack Cook (210); Rob Golden (BSA Troop 7) and Ron Dulaney (BSA Troop 84). The National Anthem and America the Beautiful was

song by the Northridge Ensemble from Northridge High School.

Pastor Linda Creig of First United Methodist Church gave the invocation. Speeches were given by Paul Steward, Joe James, Dave Powell, Brian Mueller (Director Middlebury EMS), and Kris Mueller (Township Deputy Trustee). The Memorial Prayer was given by Post Chaplain, Herb Ulery. Jack and Marilyn Cook presented the Memorial Wreath; Taps were sounded Derek Hawn of Northridge High School; Processional of the Riderless Horse by Roland Soto and a Bagpipe Retreat by Richard Mao.

On Saturday, September 15, The Pines Village Retirement Community held a “Tour of Duty” benefit at American Legion Post 403 in Wanatah. The purpose of the benefit was to raise funds to take the WWII veterans of their community to Washington, DC.

I am pleased to inform you that the function was a total success. The funds raised met the expectation and may have exceeded the original goal. The dedicated employees of The Pines, led by Lynn Meyers and Kathy Sheely, organized the entire evening. The 4th grade class of Wanatah Public School, taught by Mrs. Diane Russell, hand-made all the centerpieces used on the tables. I would also like to thank the Post Legion, SAL, Women’s Auxiliary members, Jack Turner and his crew for all their help.

A special thanks to Women’s Auxiliary member Rebecca DelReal for her help in coordinating and implementing this function. She has also been asked to accompany the tour to Washington in October which she has accepted. Again, a big thanks to The Post for it is functions such as this that fortify the being of The American Legion.

On Thursday, September

The Fourth District has been busy working on many things since Knightstown, with membership being at the top of our list. But that doesn't mean that we have forgotten the other wonderful programs, the District chairmen are just as busy working on there committee's also.

With summer gone and fall now in full swing I'm still finding out all of the avenues that I must travel yet this year. I know that this is turning into a very exciting year, for the Fourth District. With many Posts now preparing for Veterans Day, just around the corner and the many plans they are making.

In my travels this month

I met four very interesting service person just returning from Iraq. They had many thank yours to The American Legion family. They were very thankful for the packages

they received from American Legion Posts and the Families for Freedom from the northeastern part of Indiana. They repeated over and over that it seemed like if they got to a point of feeling low and down hearted, it seemed that they would get a card or package to help lift their spirits.

They also mentioned that some posts had a cell phone program that some of the service people had gotten cell phones. They were so very grateful for what people are doing, and wanted me to express a big ‘THANK YOU’ to all of you. The stories that they told were remarkable. At the end their feelings are this: they felt that America needs to be there providing the wonderful help that America is supplying.

(By the way, before someone asks: Yes they are members now)

DisTricT 5 mike comerford commander

District Commander Michael Comerford and his crew did an outstanding job of putting the Fifth District Golf Tourney on at Kokomo Post 6. Next year keep this tourney in mind as it is our Fifth District fund raiser. As a member of District 5, and if you are willing to help, Commander Comerford could always use help around the course, helping on the grill, selling tickets, sponsoring a hole, or just playing in the tournament. Past State Commanders Roger Baker and Ron Miller were out there swinging that golf club again this year. You can always count on those two Past State Commanders to be in the midst of Legion functions within our District. Our District Service

Officer and Past State Sgt. of Arms, Dave Ritenour, of Roanoke Post 160, was late for the tee off. However, he did come up with a pretty good excuse…he hit a deer on the way over to Kokomo. Dave was OK. The deer and truck were not. Regardless, Dave did make it to the golf course. This is something about Dave that those that know him will attest to … if he tells you he is going to do something…then he is going to do something.

Period.

Past Fifth District Commander Jim Small of Jonesboro Post 95 was elected SAL Fifth District Commander for the second year in a row. Jim has the whole Legion family at heart and can be counted

Fifth District Commander Michael Comerford and his Membership Chairman, Pete Brannon, continue to make their rounds at Posts talking up The American Legion and Membership. Commander Comerford is doing a terrific job and I know our District Post’s appreciate his efforts.

In talking with Adjutant Clyde Rife of Lagro Post 248, their Post put on a Luau Party with all the proceeds going to help purchase and mail care packages to the men and women serving overseas. I know this effort will be appreciated by the troops and Post 248 is to be commended for their effort towards helping our troops abroad.

Huntington Post 7 Commander Joe Beemer has been called back up for duty in Iraq. He has been over there in harm’s way before. We in the District wish him well and

The Fifth District is saddened by the death of Jack Weller, Past Fifth District Commander (1997). Commander Weller belonged to Marion Post 10 and had served our District as the Finance Officer for several years. Commander Weller was very active in the Fifth District. He was a veteran of WWII having served in the U.S. Navy. He was also active around his community of Marion. He had a cooler sitting by the door of his home and when there was a fire, he would put water and soft drinks in it along with some ice, and take it to the fire scene and pass out the drinks to the hero fireman fighting the fire. Jack will be sadly missed. And an inside joke: Jack, if you are reading this up in Heaven, for God’s sake do not blow that whistle and get you and Randy kicked out of there, too!

richard richardson commander

DisTricT 6

Phil Hutson commander

Remember the real reason what The American Legion is all about. The four pillars are: Americanism, Veteran’s Service, Children and Youth, and Community Service. This is why we must promote and maintain our family of three memberships.

Remember our troops on the upcoming holidays and the veterans in our local communities who are in nursing homes and assisted living facilities.Include in your holiday caring the husbands, wives and children. Without The American Legion Family, they would not have a Merry Christmas.

Be activity in your local Veterans Day programs and show your support for our troops. Let’s get the ‘Super’ back into The Super Sixth District. The Sixth District is ask-

ing for donations to purchase a trailer to keep and transport our equipment and supplies for the various activities during the year. Please send your donation to Tony Riley or the Sixth District commander, Phil Hutson. Our goal is $2,000 dollars and with your help we can make it.

One of Department Commander Tom’s projects for this year is Child Welfare Foundation. So if you wish to donate to this project send your donations to Department and earmark them for the Child Welfare Foundation, every penny raised supports grants for children. The American Legion absorbs all administrative costs. We do have a tax number for donations if needed.

Thank you and Happy Thanksgiving

DisTricT 7

Herb Hoffman commander

Greetings from the “Fighting Seventh District.

First off I want to thank all of my District Officers, Post Commanders, Post Adjutants and membership people for an excellent kick-off on the 2008 card year. The hard work and many hours and miles paid off with a strong start for this card year. But now the battle has just begun. From here we will need a continuous weekly effort to maintain our position into the coming year.

I will be visiting all of our posts this year on a regular basis and discussing with the post commanders and their membership teams just what they need, and what our District needs from them for a successful 100 percent card year. The opportunity is there for a great membership year, and only thru our hard work will a successful card year happen.

Mooresville Post 103 opened a new “Flag Retirement Facility” on June 14 of this year in proper form and ceremony.

The new brick finished fire oven and surrounding concrete walkways and flowered areas are a welcomed replacement for the old burning area. Concrete disks set in the flowered area represent all branches of the military. Flagpoles behind the facility also carry the flags of the services.

(See accompanying photograph – Editor)

Mooresville has had a “Flag Retirement” annually for the last seven years and with the help of their local Boy Scout

Continued from column 2

had a great time and lots of people ate the renowned Eighth District Grilled Chicken. Not to forget anyone, many bragged on the fried livers and gizzards prepared by the Eighth District “Gizzard Wizard” Chuck Wright. Thanks to all the Posts in the Eighth District who donated to Legion Day and made it a success again this year.

Post 354 representatives, Post Service Officer Luther Nixon and Post Chairman Raymond Johnson, recently made a trip to Marion VA Medical Center where they met with community Volunteer Specialist Ms. Sylvia Jackson and Community Affairs Officer Becca Shinneman.

The purpose of their trip was to distribute “comfort kits” with playing cards, toiletries and other comfort items to the inpatients at the clinic. They delivered 68 “comfort kits.” Great job guys!

are to continue the programs we run and preserve the future of the veteran’s benefits we fought so hard to get, we need the strength of higher membership numbers when we lobby our government at the state and national level.

Membership is everyone’s job; let’s each and every one of us does our part to make a difference.

Troop has drawn a growing crowd from the community to witness it.

On a more somber note I had the opportunity this week to sit in with members of Martinsville Post 230 at the funeral of a young veteran from their hometown. U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Ryan Fritsche paid the ultimate price for his patriotism on the battlefield of Kamu, Afghanistan.

Ryan, although only twentythree years old, was into his fifth year in the Army and had achieved many awards and accolades during that time.

As I sat listening to many of his Army friends pay their respect. I began to see a picture of a young man of special quality—a quality that we as veterans cherish and admire, a quality that can’t always be found in those that do not serve our country as we have served.

At this ceremony Ryan was paid his final respects by his former unit the “Old Guard” Third Infantry Regiment. This unit serves at the Tomb of The Unknowns and Arlington National Cemetery.

Just as Ryan had done for countless others before, now his friends and former comrades were serving him in one last final tribute. As the rifles cracked their gunfire, and a bugler played taps, I thanked God for all the “Ryans” who serve our country.

Legionnaires, keep all the young men and women who serve in harm’s way in your prayers and wish them a speedy and safe journey home to their loved ones.

DisTricT

8

mel Vinson commander

By David Sharber

8th

District Public Relations Officer

We just passed another Legion year milestone, Legion Day at Knightstown. We were all worried about the weather

since it had been raining intermittently all night. But true to Paul Wilkerson’s prediction, at about 9:00 a.m. the clouds parted and the sun came out to reveal a great day. The kids

Continued in column 3

Finding Elmo?

Somewhere in this sea of pulchritude, four rough characters representing the Eighth District are lurking. Can you find them? Better yet, can

The Eighth District is always on the bottom of the state but last year we showed the rest of the Districts that we can be on the top of state, membership-wise. This year should be no different than last year, let’s go for two in a row. Start early making the contacts and calls. We all know people who are eligible, we all know someone with a child or grandchild in the military. We need new members and we need the younger veterans. They are not a threat to the way that we do things. They are the future of this organization. If we

Cold weather is just around the corner; we have a lot of homeless veterans living on the streets. For the past couple of years we have been collecting good serviceable coats, hats and gloves for our homeless vets. Incoming Community Involvement Chairman David Bryant wants to continue this helping hand program this year so please check your closets for warm items you don’t wear anymore and bring them to a district meeting. If you can’t find any coats you can’t part with in your closet, check your neighbors. If you can’t make the meeting contact David and he will work with you to get the coats and such to the right place. Your gift could save a life.

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 email 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.

DisTricT

9

milton Howard commander

Greetings to members of the Nifty Ninth and a big ‘Thank You’ for working so hard at membership to get us in the running early this year. We have had some pleasant surprises by a couple of Posts that are way ahead of past years’ membership renewals, and we’ve had a few shocks from Posts not doing as well as past years.

What we do know is the old Nifty Ninth’s “Can Do Attitude” will win out in the end and all our Posts will be pulling together to the number one spot when the 07-08 membership year is over.

A special ‘Thank You’ is extended to the top nine Posts: Sunman Post 337, St. Leon Post 464, Nabb Post 352, Scottsburg Post 234 (it’s great to see Barb Bowen making her usual strong showing), West Baden Springs Post 149, Batesville Post 271, New Alsace Post 452, Paoli Post 63, and Brookville Post 77. These Posts all exceeded 70 percent of goal by October 1st and gave us the challenge to catch them.

Now that some of our outdoor activities are ending, it is a good time for our Post Membership Teams to make personal contact with members who have not renewed. In some cases, a personal visit to the member’s home is necessary, in others a simple phone call is all that is needed. In any case, a personal contact is much better than a renewal notice in the mail, and a little visit with older members who can’t get out for Post events is

always a good thing.

I would like the large number of members who have not renewed their membership for the last few years to receive personal contact from their Posts, and every effort made to return them to the Legion Family. I hope this results in a positive report when I see you at your Post or District Meetings.

The Ninth District would like to recognize and express our appreciation to the six Schaefer brothers who have compiled a total of three hundred and forty-five years of membership in The American Legion; Harry, 62 years, Raymond, 62 years, John 62 years, and Alfred, 62 years, all from New Alsace Post 452; Robert, with 56 years, is a member at Batesville Post 271; and Ralph, 41 years, from St. Leon Post 464. There was also a seventh brother Eugene, who had about twelve years as a Legionnaire and is now in Post Everlasting.

I want to express my appreciation for the warm welcomes I have received around the District, and I have enjoyed every minute I have spent with you at your Posts, District Meetings, and Conferences.

A reminder for everyone, including Auxiliary and S.A.L. that the December District Meeting at Columbus Post 24 will be an informal get-together with a $5.00 gift exchange. Ladies are to bring a gift for a lady, and men a gift for a man. The meeting is Sunday, December 2, at 2:00P.M.

Pie In The Eye

DisTricT 11

steve Barnett commander

I bring you greetings once again from the very busy Eleventh District. I would like to thank my Vice Commanders, led by my Executive Vice, Alesia Johnson, for a job well done on the Knightstown Home turn in, which was more than 59 percent of our goal. They, along with the posts in the District, made the District glow a bit.

As I said many times, our District will be busy this year, and we are! I challenged our District that any post that gives me thirty cards) would be allowed to throw a pie in my face on September 30, 2007. Well, I had A “Soupy Sales” day: Post 64, 497, and Beech Grove 276 received the honors. Fun was had by all.

Even though this was an experience I’ll never forget, I must make mention of another event that made me very proud. I was afforded the opportunity, along with Vice Commander John Thomas, Post 249, and our District S.A.L. Commander Ray Giehll III, to present the colors for Fiesta (celebration for our Latin American friends) this year.

As things would have it, the tape that was to play the National Anthem wouldn’t work, so I sang it before a crowd estimated at over two thousand. The experience was unique, and I appreciated the opportunity to do this. One of the things brought to my attention was that many of our Latin American friends who are veterans, who served in our Armed Forces, have never been invited to join The American Legion family. This is not good, ladies and gentlemen. We need to, and I did, extend an invitation to this community to join us. I will work with the local president of the

various organizations behind this great event, Fiesta, to that end.

However, back to being busy in the 11th District: We are currently planning a district wide trip to our nation’s capital, Washington, DC in March 2008. We will see all of the memorials having to do with the many wars, including Arlington Cemetery. We are planning a special tour of the heart of our military, the Pentagon. All members in the State of Indiana will be invited. Details will be forthcoming in the next few months. Also, we arc planning our first Commanders Ball in April, honoring the past Commanders whom have served our district throughout the years. Stay tuned for this most unique event.

I would also like to extend a heart felt ‘thank you’ to the organizers of this year’s Circle City Classic football game, for the invitation to participate in their nationally televised parade and game. I not only rode in the Parade, but also presented the two schools with flags on behalf of the men and women from those schools who have served in our Armed Forces.

Last but not least, I want to extend my heartfelt sympathy to Post 500 for the loss of their Commander, William (Bill) Roberts, Jr. He was a leader coming into his own, a member of the Legion Riders, and one great guy. We in the district will miss him greatly. One other special shout out, to our great organization, The American Legion Riders. I was so proud to have them along with me to welcome one of our men returning home from Iraq.; Many thanks.

Restaurant Gives A Hoot About Veterans

By Jeff Carroll, PR Chairman Special to The Hoosier Legionnaire

During the 89th Convention of The American Legion Department of Indiana in July of this year at Merrillville, the Eighth District got to meet some wonderful people.

The Eighth District decided they would like to have some hot wings to serve in their Hospitality Room so they placed

an order with the Schererville Hooters for five hundred hot wings. What happened next was a surprise.

General Manager Jess Malher stated she could not charge us for the wings and that they were donating them to us. When we went to thank them we found out that Jess's dad, James (Jim) O'Brien is an American Legion Member and belongs to Post 11. The surprise didn't stop there.

The following weekend, The American Legion Auxiliary Department of Indiana held its Convention in Merrillville. Once again, it was decided to get some hot wings, this time for the Eighth District Auxiliary Hospitality Room. A call was placed to the Schererville Hooters and an order was placed for one hundred hot wings. Once again Jess Malher, the General Manager, said she could not charge us

for the wings and that they were donating them. It's a wonderful feeling knowing that there are still people out there who respect and care about veterans and The American Legion Family. The Eighth District would once again like to say ‘thank you’ to the Schererville Hooters. Thanks for the hospitality and caring you showed us while we were there. The wings were enjoyed by all.

Eleventh District Commander Steve Barnett took one for the team recently, when Post 276 Adjutant Larry Stout took aim and connected with a cream pie. Stout earned the privilege as his post became one of four in the Eleventh District (64, 276, 249, and 495) that rose to Barnett’s challenge to submit at least 30 cards to him on his last drive-around prior to the Fall Conference.

No-Cost Insurance Coverage Available

As a Legionnaire in good standing, you are entitled to ‘No Cost To You $1000 Accident Protection.’ However, this coverage does not start automatically -- you have to enroll.

The Indiana Department of The American Legion is giving this protection to you as thanks for your membership and your continued support - and because they want you to be protected.

Even though there is very little you can do to prevent accidents, you can protect yourself and your family from the financial consequences of an accident. That’s why we suggest looking into getting the expanded coverage as well as the no-cost coverage. According to 2000 statistics from the National Safety Council, every six minutes someone dies accidentally. Every two seconds, someone is injured in an accident. These are not very comforting thoughts.

If you had a fatal accident, would your family members have to sell the house or drop out of school to get a job? One thing is for sure. If you or your spouse died accidentally, your family would need cash benefits to carry on. Financial experts agree that you should have loss-of-life benefits equaling up to five times your annual income.

The Accident protection plan endorsed by your LIT Department can help you do just that. Depending on what amount of coverage you decide is right for you, the plan can pay up to $110,000.00, and the money is paid directly to you or your family so it can be used where it is needed most.

So don’t let your family down - protect yourself and them against the unpredictable. It is easy to enroll. You also have the option of signing up your spouse for the same expanded coverage. This insurance will pay you or your family directly, regardless of any other insurance coverage you might have. Call the LIT today at 1-800-235-6943 to get enrollment forms and the details of what is and what is not covered mailed to you for this No—Cost $1000.00 coverage - and the expanded coverage. No

one will call you. Once you get the information, you can enroll for the No—Cost Coverage and decide if the expanded Accident Protection is right for you.

News You Can Use Faces From The Conference

Eat Your Way to Better Health

An apple a day keeps the doctor away. Or, does it?

Over the years we’ve been bombarded with conflicting advice about what constitutes a healthy diet. One study will come out touting the benefits of one food source, followed by another disputing the findings.

“Eat meat to grow big and strong,” has been contradicted with, “No! It’s full of saturated fat.” Or, “Drink milk, it builds strong bones,” then we heard, “Cow’s milk is practically poison.”

This conflicting advice has made it difficult for many of us to know how to choose foods that make up a healthy diet. Recently, even the USDA’s food pyramid has been under attack by some health professionals.

However, most health gurus do agree that - the healthier we eat the better chance we have of fighting off illness and disease. Here are some basic food and lifestyle tips that would benefit almost everyone:

• Exercise regularly

• Eat more fish and vegetables

• Eat fruits, nuts and legumes

• Eat a limited quantity of red meat

• Eat brown or whole grains versus white starches

• Take vitamins, especially B vitamins

By combining a healthy diet with an overall healthy lifestyle you can reap great benefits. But, sometimes we get sick anyway, and with rising health and hospital costs, you might feel even more ill when you get the bill.

You can guard against the ill effects of these unexpected costs with the Hospital Help Insurance sponsored by the Legionnaire Insurance Trust. The insurance plan provides cash benefits that you can use to pay your expenses anyway you see fit. To find out more of the coverage details, including what is and what is not covered, please call toll-free, 1-800-235-6943.

Rehabilitation Commission

Continued from page 3

seconded and passed. Jerry Horn from the I.V.H. spoke. Currently there are 276 residents. Resident goal is set at 300 by the end of the year. Mr. Horn introduced Mr. Dave Morehouse, a resident at I.V.H. Mr. Morehouse spoke on the living conditions at the home. He also complimented Mr. Horn on the fine job he is doing. I.V.H. fruit wrap to be held December 9th beginning at 12:00 p.m.

Nursing Home

Lowell Sullivan and John Hickey responded to questions and John described the funds allocation process. John also handed out the Nursing Homes allocation account spread sheet showing what each of the Districts has remaining in their account.

Marvin Newland asked for guidance on rules covering the upkeep of electric wheel chairs for veterans in nursing homes.

Veterans Assistance

Guest speaker Jim Schonberger, Director of Special Projects at Crane, gave a presentation on Crane Learning & Employment Center for Veterans with Disabilities. This is a new program devel-

oped by veterans at Crane to help veterans with disabilities gain the education and support they need to be able to return to the work force. Pilot program is to begin in October 2007 with 15 to 20 participants who must be Chapter 31 eligible. It is a 12 to 18 month program that will provide housing and transportation to the veterans if needed. Post could help with sponsorships and cookouts. John Hickey discussed Habitat for Humanity of Greater Indianapolis. They are looking for a disabled veteran or a veteran and family to receive a home. Specific requirements are available thru the Service Department.

General Hospital District 1 reported there are 230 inpatients at the Jessie Brown VAMC in Chicago. 5th District purchased fans for vets. The Indianapolis VAMC will receive new TV’s purchased with department rehab funds. Rehab funds purchased $300 worth of comfort items for veterans visiting the Evansville VA Clinic.

Adjournment

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

The 2007-2008 District Commanders were seated front and center during the general session of the annual Fall Conference earlier this month. With them, just prior to being introduced by Commander Somerville, were the other department officers (seat rear of the commanders). Current officers, along with all living past Department Commanders, are traditionally accorded special recognition during all conferences and conventions of the Department of Indiana.

Child & Youth Commission

Continued from page 3

gious award as a Girl Scout not a Brownie and Gold Award to be attached to application.

The committee is requesting $150 each year to cover transportation costs for the Award winner to convention. The committee would like to repay the $500 start up loan to department. Donations from Joe Komenda, Post 180 and Post 232 totaling $288 were accepted. The 2nd District is currently selling car flags for $3 each to supplement the scholarship fund.

Junior Shooting Sports Committee

A motion was made and approved to meet at Midwinter for a training session to discuss how to conduct a tournament using ISSCH’s help and the CMP article distributed at this meeting. The Department Tournament will be November 3 at ISSCH in the Cortner Gym.

Knightstown Home Committee

A motion was made and approved to repair pool tables for a cost of $2,500. The Christmas wrap will be December 2, 2007. The Christmas Program will be December 21, 2007, at 7:00 p.m. Jerry Jordon reported a very successful Legion Day. Mr. Wilkerson thanked the SAL for setting up games for Legion Day. He also reported on the Mutt program in which children train dogs to be helper dogs.

Bob Holland presented $2,500 from the 7th District to be used for the points store. The committee will meet at the Mid-Winter Conference.

Oratorical Committee

Two motions were made and passed to conduct a Midwinter Conference meeting and to utilize the offered Detachment assistance in contacting an estimated 600 schools to increase number of participants. State contest workers were presented cer-

tificates of appreciation. Post Everlasting was conducted to honor past 6th District Chairman Jerry Harry. The scholarship amounts have increased. The state winner receives a total of $4,200, zone winners receive a total of $1,800, and zone contest participants receive $200. The following dates were announced for district competitions:

District 1 January 6, 2008 hosted by Post 180 at 2:00 p.m. CDT; District 2 TBD; District 3 January 6, 2008 hosted by Post 161 at 3:00 p.m. EST; District 4 January 20, 2008 hosted by Post 43 at 1:00 p.m. EST; District 5 January 20, 2008 location TBD at 1:00 p.m. EST; District 6 TBD; District 7 January 19, 2008 hosted by Post 18 at 1:00 p.m. EST; District 8 January 19, 2008 hosted by Post 254 at 1:00 p.m. EST; District 9 January 5, 2008 hosted by Mitchell High School and Post 250 at 10:00 a.m. EST; District 10 January 6, 2008 hosted by Post 152 at 2:00 p.m. EST; District 11 January 6, 2008 hosted by Post 3 at 1:00 p.m. EST.

The zone contests will be:

Zone 1 hosted by 2nd District with details TBD; Zone 2 hosted by 5th District with location TBD on February 17, 2008 at 1:00 p.m. EST; Zone 3 hosted by the 10th District with details TBD; Zone 4 hosted by 9th District at Mitchell High School on February 2, 2008 at 10:00 a.m.

Notebooks and department materials were distributed to chairmen. A National Resolution was made and passed to change the name of the program from The American Legion Oratorical Contest to The American Legion High School Oratorical Scholarship Program – “A Constitutional Speech Contest.”

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

Newly Elected National Commanders Ray Ghiell (above left) and Marty Conatser (above right) address conferees during the just concluded Fall Conference. Hoosier native son Ghiell was elected to lead the SAL at the 89th annual National Convention, and Conatser, from Illinois, was elected National Commander of The American Legion. At the left, Department Commander Tom Somerville and Department Judge Advocate Joe Bumbleburg present the Distinguished Service Award to Ivy Tech Community College President Emeritus, Dr. Gerald Lamkin, a member of Rising Sun Post 59.

Internal Affairs Commission

Continued from page 3

that we are not presenting a good picture. Focus needs to be on the positives of our programs. Positive images assist greatly with our membership recruiting. He suggested we utilize local media to broadcast our successes, stating that The American Legion is the only major veterans’ organization with a growing membership.

Ken Hylton gave a presentation regarding the training workshop at Seymour Post 89, Saturday, October 13.

Registration and breakfast is from 8:00 to 9:00 a.m. and the training is scheduled to end around 12:00 p.m. Staff members will be present and there was some discussion as to what areas would be covered.

Chairman Sutton presented the First District with the first place trophy and the 10th District was presented with the last place booby prize.

New Post Development/ Revitalization

Chairman Davis asked for a report from each District present: 1st District reported that Post 17 is up to 35 members, mostly consisting of Legion Riders. Post 99 and 266 has paperwork turned in for turning in their charter. This was referred to the Department. Not having a building does not mean that you cease to exist. 4th District reported that Post 467 is at 80% for 2008 with 55 members. 6th District reported Post 40 has turned in their charter and all members will be transferred into posts within the District. 7th District reported that the Mooresville Post 325 members are going to meet next week to shut down and disburse funds. Two posts in the 7th District do not have buildings and they are not sinking. 9th District reported on having a workshop next Saturday at 9:00 a.m.

Tenth District reported the McCordsville Post 556 is char-

tered. Post 55 has paid no dues for two years. They are asking if the District can suspend their charter. The Committee referred this matter to the Department. Eleventh District reported that Post 466 turned in their charter a couple of years ago and paid PUFL’s for all of the members and allowed them to transfer to a post of their choosing and donated the remaining funds to the Knightstown Home. Public Relations The Committee decided to meet at the Mid-Winter Conference.

Religious Emphasis

Old Business: Ted Blevins brought in forms for member information for anyone who wants them. He stated that anyone who would like some may contact him and he will forward directly to them.

New Business: A motion was made to meet at the Mid-Winter Conference. The motion was seconded and passed. Darrel Swanson, a survivor of the Dorchester, has written about his experience as the ship sank. This will be read at the Four Chaplains service this year. Tom Lowe made a presentation concerning the Chapel of the Four Chaplains service. He also discussed Judge Roy Moore of Alabama.

Chairman Keirn discussed the importance of the Ten Commandments and how the ACLU is primarily fighting the Commandments for profit. There was some discussion regarding a bill in the State House that will make it illegal to speak out against life styles and other groups that happen to think differently than you do. There is a possibility that you may face prison time and be fined for such comments.

Adjournment

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

Vet Centers Aid Re-Entry Into Society For Traumatized Veterans

War changes people. How many times have your heard that statement? Let’s go even further. War -- and the business of war -- changes the warrior and his family. The experiences of war often make re-entering society difficult in work and social settings alike. Family members also experience stress when their loved one returns with complex emotional difficulties.

War places service men and women in abnormal situations. We – or most of us – were brought up using the golden rule of ‘do unto others as you would have them do unto you.’ This all changes upon entry into military service.

One of the first things the military’s business of war teaches us is to dehumanize the enemy, and obey orders. Then, after being placed in the environment of war, service men and women fully re-

John Hickey Department Service Officer

spond as taught and ordered. Upon return to civilian life, they are once again expected to automatically perform a paradigm shift and adapt to society’s demands. Surprisingly enough, many do and go on to lead productive fulfilling lives; unfortunately, many do not and develop PTSD or another form of a chronic stress or anxiety disorder. Stress and anxiety are a normal reaction to abnormal situations such as combat, violence, sexual trauma, and natural disasters. The National Institute of Mental Health reported in 1999 that 5.2 million persons have Post

Traumatic Stress Disorder. PTSD is a delayed reaction to abnormal stress. Symptoms can appear immediately or take years to show up. PTSD prevents people from having a well-adjusted family and work life.

The symptoms of PTSD include:

• Re-experiencing the traumatic event with either intrusive thoughts, recurrent distressing dreams/nightmares, flashbacks, intense distress to internal or external cues, or having an exaggerated startle responses that can include violent reactions;

• Avoidance behaviors, such as, avoiding thoughts, feelings, conversations; avoidance of activities, places or people; inability to recall aspects of the trauma; lack of interest in previous activities; felling detached or estranged; emotional numbing; and/or having a sense of foreshort-

ened future; and

• Hyper-arousal reactions, such as, difficulty falling or staying asleep, irritability or outbursts of anger, difficulty concentrating, hypervigilance, and/or exaggerated startle responses.

Many veterans avoid treatment for PTSD due to the stigma of having a “mental disorder.” Those veterans often attempt to self medicate with alcohol and/or drugs, cause disruption in their homes and social lives, and perform poorly on the job or a history of having many jobs for only short periods of time.

Confidential, professional help is available at VA Vet Centers. Veterans suffering adjustment disorders first organized vet centers themselves shortly following the Vietnam War. This was before the medical community understood and diagnosed PTSD.

In 1979, Congress gave

Vet Centers a separate charter and scope of operations under control of the Department of Veterans Affairs. This means information collected at Vet Centers is strictly confidential to the extent neither the VA medical Centers or VA Regional Offices can access that information without the veteran’s signed consent.

Vet Centers now provide a broad rage of counseling services to veterans and their families. Those services include not only individual and group PTSD counseling but also bereavement counseling, sexual trauma counseling, marital/family counseling, alcohol and drug abuse counseling, community education services, and more.

Vet Center services are available for the following war era veterans: WWII, Korea, Lebanon, Grenada, Panama, Persian Gulf, Somalia, Yugoslovia/Kosovo, and all

Program Offers OJT, Education, Jobs

veterans who served or have served in military expeditions to combat terrorism on or after September 11, 2001, to a date not yet determined. Eligible veterans residing outside of a fifty-mile radius of a Vet Center may be authorized to receive non-VA counseling services.

You may reach Indiana Vet Centers at the following address and phone numbers: 311 North Weinbach Ave., Evansville, Indiana 47711 (812-473-5993 or 473-6084); 528 West Berry St. Fort Wayne, Indiana 46802 (219-460-1456); 9105A Indianapolis Blvd. Suite 301, Highland, Indiana 46322 (219-923-2871); 3833 North Meridian Street, Suite 120, Indianapolis, Indiana 46208 (317-927-6440)

This help may be just what the combat vet and his family need to readjust and once again live a productive and satisfying life.

Crane Warfare Center To Train Disabled Vets

ter the workforce, place them in compatible jobs, and help them develop the life skills they need to adapt when returning home from a war zone.

Special to the Hoosier Legionnaire

CRANE, Ind. – Crane Division, Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC Crane) and its partners have established the Crane Learning and Employment Center (CLEC) for Veterans with Disabilities. The center will train disabled veterans to effectively re-en-

As apprentices at the Learning and Employment Center, veterans will receive on–the-job training, as well as educational opportunities through local colleges and universities. At the end of the apprenticeship, participants will be able to work full time in their selected field at Crane.

another way to help the applicant transition through the program. According to James Schonberger, Program Director, and member of Crane Technology Incorporated, “Crane’s military environment and job diversity is ideal for involvement with the Disabled Veteran’s Training Center.

Local Service and Legislative Issues

Department Service Office October Business Hours:

The Department Service Office is normally open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Appointments are necessary for client visits.

You may contact the Department Service Office by calling the 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.

Veterans Services at the Department Fall Conference

Department Service Officers staffed a veterans’ services and benefits information table in the lobby during the just concluded annual Fall Conference. During the Veterans Assistance Meeting, Jim Schonberger, Program Director. Crain Learning & Employment Center for Veterans with Disabilities, discussed Veterans Learning and Employment opportunities at Crane, and how Crane has teamed up with VA to provide jobs for newly trained disabled veterans. The General Hospital, Indiana Veterans Home, Veterans Employment, Homeless Veterans, and Nursing Home committees also discuss veterans’ services.

Future Veterans Benefits Seminars

American Legion Department Service Officers conduct Veterans Benefits Seminars at request. The formal power point presentation normally lasts approximately 1 to 1 ½ hours depending the number of questions asked. The

seminars focus on Non-Service Connected Pension benefits with special emphasis on how non-service connected special monthly pension benefits can be used to help pay the costs of assisted living expenses, among other issues, depending on the needs or interests of the sponsoring organization.

VISN 11 Veterans Forum

The VISN 11 Management Assistance Council (MAC) and the many organizations who serve in partnership to meet veterans needs in VISN 11 will come together again for a FORUM on Veterans Issues. This event has been very successful in identifying, exploring, and providing feedback for the critical concerns and challenges before VA’s VISN 11 network, comprised of lower Michigan, Indiana, central Illinois and northwest Ohio.

With the support of Veteran Service Officer/Organization (VSO) partners, VA will have officials from the Veterans Benefits Administration, the States of Michigan, Illinois and Indiana, the National Cemetery System, and the Veterans Healthcare Administration to dialogue with Veterans Service Organization officials.

Interested veterans service professionals are welcome to attend. If you have not previously completed the attached form indicating your inter-

est in attending, please do so ASAP. We also encourage you to contact the Radisson Plaza Hotel for room reservations by calling (269) 343-3333. A block of rooms is being held under “Department of Veterans Affairs/Fall Forum.” at a rate of $75 per night. The Forum will take place October 23-25, 2007

A special luncheon is being planned on Wednesday and participants will be asked to pay the cost of $12 at that time.

Accessing Veterans Benefits Information

The American Legion Department Service Office and local County Veterans Service Officers offer veterans’ benefits information and specific advice about filing claims and what is necessary to win benefits. Veterans also may contact government sources directly for general benefits information using the following contact information:

The Department of Veterans Affairs is represented by numerous Regional offices, state Benefit Offices, Vet Centers, and medical facilities throughout the U.S. and its territories. Locations of these facilities can be found at: • VARO: http://www.vba. va.gov/benefits/ROcontacts. htm

• State Benefit Offices: http://www.va.gov/statedva. htm

• Vet Centers: http:// www1.va.gov/directory/ guide/vetcenter.asp

• Medical, cemetery, and all the above: http://www1. va.gov/directory/guide/ home.asp.

• For questions or information you get an email response by asking your question at https://iris. va.gov/scripts/iris.cfg/php. exe/enduser/home.php.

To talk to VA you can go to your local VA office or call the following:

• VA Benefits: 1(800) 827-1000 for Burial; Civilian Health & Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA); Death Pension; Dependency Indemnity Compensation; Direct Deposit; Directions to VA Benefits Regional Offices; Disability Compensation; Disability Pension; Education; Home Loan Guaranty; Life Insurance; Medical Care; Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment.

• Education (GI Bill): 1(888) 442-4551

• Health Care Benefits: 1(877) 222-8387

• Income Verification and Means Testing: 1(800) 9298387

• Life Insurance: 1(800) 669-8477

• Mammography Helpline: 1(888) 492-7844

• Special Issues Gulf War/Agent Orange/Project Shad/Mustard Agents and Lewisite/Ionizing Radiation: 1(800) 749-8387

• Status of Headstones and Markers: 1(800) 697-6947

• Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD): 1(800) 829-4833

• Suicide Call Center: 1(800) 273-TALK (8255).

“The establishment of this center is a win-win for everyone involved. Our veterans will get the assistance they so readily deserve, Crane will receive highly skilled, knowledgeable employees with experience in the field, and we’ll set the bar for the rest of the nation to follow in providing training for re-entry of our veterans into the workforce,” said Larry McRoberts, Director of Veterans Programs, NSWC Crane.

Once in the program, the Veterans Administration pays for them to be retrained through college. The universities are customizing the learning process for the applicants and classes start January 2008. All Pilot Program Participants will be offered job placement with Crane. After the pilot, Crane will employ some of the participants annually. CLEC will work diligently to insure employment either at Crane, other military facilities or through our industry partners and other Indiana business.

McRoberts said “The main difference between our program and others is that the CLEC program walks each applicant through the process once they are placed in it. They are not just given a telephone number and sent on their way. With this program they are walked through each step with an actual person helping them. With other government programs time can be a factor and the process can be a lengthy one. Our program is different because we have several groups and agencies all working together.”

Another element to the program is that mentors will be assigned to the applicants. Mentors will be from all areas of NSWC Crane and will include a wide range of experience from line workers to the corporate level. This additional mentoring is yet

“Crane is in the business of supporting the warfighter, so veterans should adapt well to Crane’s atmosphere and mission, and they’ll be welcomed with open arms from a community that serves the military with pride and commitment. Their previous hands-on experience with Crane’s products and systems will make them an invaluable member of the workforce in overcoming obstacles and finding solutions,” said Schonberger.

Although the focus of this program is on Indiana veterans, it will be open to all veterans across the nation. The response for entry into the program has been strong, and has included applicants from several states. Long term goals for the program include building a campus at the West Gate Technical Park, adjacent to NSWC Crane, where veterans would attend classes and be housed. Future plans also include an expansion of job placement to consist of more Indiana businesses, primarily from the technical sector.

Several organizations make up the advisory board for CLEC, consisting of the Federal Veterans Administration; Naval Support Activity; Indiana Workforce Development; Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indianapolis; Work One of Indiana; Indiana Veterans Administration; Vincennes University; Ivy Tech College.

Family Support Services will also be available to ensure that spouses find jobs, families receive counseling support, and housing is readily available

McRoberts said “We hope as time goes on there will be less and less of our veterans coming home with disabilities including amputees, loss of hearing, loss of sight and other handicaps. Until that happens, we need programs like this for our veterans. A program that will provide them with solid job skill training and a program that helps meet their other needs while they are being trained.”

Hitting The Ground Running: Variety Spices Department Life

Late Summer and early Fall is a busy time for The American Legion Department of Indiana, as conventions, observances, conferences, meetings, and dignitaries focus the attention of Hoosier Legionnaires on the coming Legion year. Here, is just a sample of the flurry of activities beginning at right and continuing down and across the page: 8th District Delegates to the National Convention carry the parade banner beneath Reno’s famed welcoming sign; NVC Gary Steinhardt explains the details of his idea to enlist more guard and reserve members into the Legion; Hoosier delegates and guests packed the SAL convention hall to witness the election of Ray Ghiell to the office of National Commander; Indiana’s candidate for National Commander, Jim Koutz, was a significant presence during the 89th annual National Convention; 8th District Delegate Bob Oeth salutes the photographer during the convention’s opening session; The Legion Riders presence has opened up new avenues of expression, including this Air Force themed Bike on display in the convention hall; Commander Somerville greets partygoers at the Fall Conference party; One Assistant Department Adjutant is usually enough – but not for Indiana’s Third District: massed and masked, they spiked the Fall Conference Party with more than 30 superfluous Dagleys – complete with signature white shirts and cameras around their necks; An apparent party crasher at the ‘Hobo Jungle’ themed party; Department Adjutant Steve Short shares a laugh with newly elected SAL National Commander, Indiana’s own Ray Ghiell following Short’s administering of the oath of office to the new commander; Auxiliary President Judy Butler draws a bead at a weapons simulator during a stop on the commander’s tour of the department; Randy Dooley attended the party dressed not for a handout, but as a handout; Commander Conatser enjoys a laugh with Past National Treasurer Webber Lagrange and Department Commander Tommy Sullivan. The commander’s aide was not amused.

Posts Urged To Keep Cards At Post, Ready to Transmitt

With the membership year already about a third of the way through, some occurrences and trends have become apparent. Now is a good time to address them, as well as to remind Legionnaires of the thinking that went into developing the membership program for this year.

As chairman, I have traveled extensively around the department to encourage post and district membership teams and pick up cards for return to the department for processing. On many occasions, I have arrived at a post, only to find that a batch of cards ready to be transmitted in not available.

Apparently, the practice of post officers taking processed cards home with them is a little more widespread than I knew. Please, keep your processed cards – those ready to be transmitted to the Department – on site at the post. That way, when a scheduled card pick-up or unplanned opportunity arises, your members’ cards will reach Headquarters at the earliest possible moment.

Keep in mind that Posts can be penalized by the Department for failing to transmit cards within 30 days of their receipt, regardless of the reason.

Also, keep in mind that many of your members have enrolled in the $1,000 Accidental Death and Dismemberment insurance policy for which only current membership is a condition. Some posts have been required to pay survivors the $1,000 because they did not transmit a members’ renewal before an accidental death.

Hundred Percent Posts

Our membership program seems to be off to a slow start, in terms of those posts achieving the 100 percent mark early. As of this issue, one Post has reached and surpassed that mark and two have reached it. They are Clarence Wiles Post 222 and Claude Wilcox Post 175 (5th District) at 100 percent, and Moore-Irvin Post 359 (10th District) at 115.79 percent. These posts have demonstrated that it can be done.

Also, keep in mind that Posts that reach 100 percent before the end of the calendar year will receive special recognition at the Department Convention. It is worth working for.

Membership Program Review

The Department Membership team, which includes Bill McClure of Post 88, the Department Officers and Staff, and the 11 District Commanders remain excited about this Legion year and optimistic about your Post, your District and Your Department. In preparing for this membership year, we integrated Commander Somerville’s “Team Unity” theme into the program by establish interdependent goals, strategies and expectations, Here’s a review.

Goals -- As always, the membership goal for each Post, each District and the entire Department is 100 percent for the Legion year. However, for the past three or four years I, along with countless other Blue Cappers, complained and whined repeatedly about unreachable goals. Taking those concerns into account, we determined to set District goals at their total membership as of the close of the 2007 books, plus one additional member for each Post in the District. This amounts to a decrease in the Department’s goal of 10,316 cards from last year, but it also places the 100 percent goal within reasonable reach. It is our belief that success breeds success, and that given an attainable goal, the Posts and Districts will reach and exceed those goals.

Robert Sutton Membership Chairman

The Department has put the ball in the Commander’s ballpark, so let’s step up to the plate and knock it out of the park.

Strategies -- I have been and will continue to work almost exclusively with the District Membership Chairman. We want them to continue visiting Posts in their District, taking time to talk to the Post’s First Vice Commander and his membership team. If your Post doesn’t have a membership team, yet, it is still not too late to put one in place. The District Chairman can help you in this effort. Your First Vice and his team should be active, eager, and most of all, polite.

Your team should call members to remind them of

Ask Jessie

parties, picnics or any program that your Post conducts where membership dues will be accepted. Try putting notices in local papers. Put notices in your Post bulletin suggesting that a new membership or renewal can make an excellent birthday, Christmas, or special occasion gift.

If you would like to have me attend your Post or District membership function, please notify me concerning the date and time and I will make every effort to attend, providing that I don’t have any schedule conflicts. I’ve sat in dunk-tanks, had pies thrown in my face, had my head shaved and even met a National Vice Commander while wearing only a Legion cap and a rain barrel, all to promote membership.

So don’t be afraid to ask for help and be sure to thank the people who do give you assistance. You also should thank the people who aren’t able to help when you ask because they may be able to help at a later date. Remember: you are dealing with volunteers and

a simple “Thank You” will go a long way in getting you the help you may need. So set your team some goals, have fun and go get ’em.

Expectations -- Commander Somerville and I hope that with this new, more level, playing field each and every Post and District will strive to meet its goals. To that end we ask that you turn in cards all year long. Don’t stop at 100 percent because we need every card to help offset any posts that are closed or suspended. With the new numbers and programs in place for this year, we will be very disappointed if every District doesn’t reach, and hopefully, break 100 percent. In closing we have also set up a reward program for the Blue Cappers who are actively recruiting new members. For every eight new members or over two year re-instated members, that any one recruiter signs up, the recruiter will receive a lined, coach’ style American Legion jacket. So try to get as many jackets as you can.

'Cheerful Giver’ Seeks More Opportunities To Contribute

Dear Jessie:

I am a long-standing member with The American Legion and will periodically make donations when I receive address labels or greeting cards. I am interested in many of the other programs sponsored by the Legion and I would like to donate to them directly throughout the year. How can I do that?

Cheerful Giver

Dear Cheerful: We sure could use more like you. You can always give to Legion programs – all you have to do is send a check. Make sure you put what program you want to support on the memo line. Programs that could use your help include The Child Welfare Foundation (which Commander Somerville has chosen as his special project for this year), Boys State, Flag Education, American Legion Family Scholarship, Indiana Soldiers and Sailors Children’s Home, High School Oratorical Contest, Boys Scouts, Girl Scouts, and many more. A complete list, which I have sent to you, is available from Susan Long, Program Coordinator Americanism and Children & Youth programs. She can be reached by email at slong@indlegion. org or by mail at 777 North Meridian Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204.

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 to Jessie ends up in the paper!

Dear Jessie:

I am related to someone who served on active duty during one of the membership eligibility dates. Can I join the Auxiliary or Sons of The American Legion even if they are currently not a member of The American Legion? Anxious To Join

Dear Anxious: No. If your relative who served on active duty during one of the eligibility dates does not hold current membership in The American Legion, you may not join either the American Legion Auxiliary or the Sons of The American Legion. However, if the qualifying veteran is deceased you may join the appropriate organization, even if the qualifying veteran was not a member of The American Legion when living.

Dear Jessie:

Can I ask The American Legion to search its membership system and give me a current address of an old military buddy I want to locate?

Lost But Not Forgotten

Dear Lost: No. The American Legion protects the privacy of its members and will not release any personal information. The American Legion Magazine does offer a limited service for veterans seeking other veterans, usually in instances involving witnesses for VA claims.

Dear Jessie: I’ve recently become a member of The American Legion; what can I do to get help with a VA claim?

Desperate

Dear Desperate: American Legion Service Officers offer free advice and guidance for veterans who need to deal with the Department of Veterans Affairs You should contact your Post or County Service Officer, who will assist you in obtaining representation by the Department Service Officers. American Legion Service Officers provide assistance to all veterans who need it, whether or not the veteran is a Legion member.

What’s Next?

Commander Conatser: ‘Service Men & Women Are A Reflection of Us’

Last summer, American Legion National Commander Paul A. Morin gave me an opportunity that will guide not only my own year as national commander but the rest of my life. He gave me the opportunity to visit our troops at war in Iraq. There, I gained invaluable firsthand insight into the biggest issue facing the world today, and I discovered firsthand how The American Legion is impacting it.

When I walked up to a group of soldiers, I simply introduced myself with a handshake. "I'm Marty Conatser," I said. "I'm with The American Legion."

Without exception, someone in the group would say, "Thanks for your Auxiliary, your Sons and Legionnaires staying in touch with word from back home, sending us care packages and taking care of us." They were fully aware and deeply appreciative of our support. Sometimes we might think what we're doing is not noticed. I'm here to tell you that the young soldiers in Iraq do notice, and our support matters deeply to them. That was heartening.

When I was there, Gen. David Petraeus gave me one of his challenge pins. I take it as a challenge for myself and every Legionnaire and Legion family member to continue to support our U.S. military mission in Iraq. These are simple, logical orders if you think about it. If we put soldiers in boots, and we put those boots in harm's way, it is our responsibility as a Legion family to support, in every way, the man or woman inside them.

That is how we demonstrate the value of membership in The American Legion. It's a value that needs to be understood by those card-carrying members who never set foot in our posts, our units or our squadrons. It's a value that we know reaches those who volunteer every day. It's

You See That?

another Good reason To re-new Your membership!

Editor’s Note: National Commander Marty Conatser conveyed this message to Hoosier Legionnaires during not only his tour of the Department, but also while visiting the just-concluded Fall Conference in Indianapolis. It bears repeating. Copies of the message are available on the National Organization’s website – www.legion.org.

the value of Boys State and Boys Nation. It's the value of high-school oratorical competition, American Legion Baseball, shooting sports and Boy Scouts. It's the value of hurricane recovery, hospital volunteerism, scholarship fund-raising and grassroots advocacy on behalf of our fellow veterans. It's a value we must continue to embody for all veterans who want to continue serving their communities and country.

The young soldiers I met in Iraq understand that The American Legion is an organization built on values they share. As young veterans, they see positive support activities by posts, units and squadrons and understandably want to join and become part of our success, our quality and our commitment. These values are time-honored, and our young soldiers and veterans understand that, too. The American Legion has stayed true to the four pillars of its founding - national security, care for veterans, patriotism and youth - since that first group of war-weary World War I troops gathered in Paris to start the organization in 1919.

It is a rare and wonderful phenomenon that today, 89 years later, the founding vision still connects deeply with young U.S. service members risking their lives on foreign soil. We know we must never let them down. They are reflections of ourselves, our experiences and our values. They are our past, present and future. They are us.

Membership Chairman Bobby Sutton (left) watches as Southern Vice Commanders Ken Hylton and Danny Rice go over their strategies for restoring growth to the Department of Indiana’s membership program. The impromptu meeting took place during the Knightstown Home Target Date Turn-in in mid-September. Did

Commander’s Message

Commander’s Job Difficult? No; Hectic? Yes

Not long before the Commander’s White Cap was placed on my head, a friend asked me “Are you ready for this?” I said I was.

“Sure. How difficult can it be?” I asked.

That was the wrong response. The job of Department Commander is not difficult, but it is hectic, demanding, and unimaginably rewarding. In the past four months, the opportunities I have had and the people I have met have confirmed for me that the men and women of The American Legion Family are the best people in the world. If the people of this state, especially the veterans, only knew what I know, if they experienced only a part of what I have experienced, all our membership woes would be gone. What is exciting, what is promising, is the fact that they can experience it. All they need is an invitation from one of us to visit, get to know us, and become a part of The American Legion. That, of course, is up to each and every one of us. All we have to do is ask.

What led me to this conclusion is the variety and extent of the activities I have been involved in so far this year, and the many others to which I have been invited, and which, sadly, I have been unable to attend.

I have been to ‘The Biggest Little City in The World” -Reno, with a couple hundred outstanding Hoosier Legionnaires who represented the state and our Department well. I witnessed the election of one of our own to the high office of SAL National Commander, and participated in the stirring demonstration of support for Illinois’ candidate for National Commander of The American Legion.

I’ve seen community service and participation at it’s finest, as I rode in the Popcorn Festival Parade in Valparaiso and was greeted by public officials and throngs of citizens.

I have seen our the Legion Family’s outpouring of love and generosity as they gathered at the Indiana Soldiers and Sailors Childrens Home at Knightstown for Legion Day, complete with games, food, activities and special pre-

sentations to the youngsters who are fortunate to have the Home to call theirs.

And, I was please to watch as posts and Districts paraded into the membership office for a respectable, if not record, turn-in of cards at what is traditionally one of our best turn-ins. The First District took the traveling trophy for its first place finish, but there are other Districts hot on their trail. Congratulations to Don Sales and his membership team.

As an avid Baseball man, I would be remiss if I did not include the State tourney at Madison among the highlights of the year so far. Post 9 did and outstanding job conducting the tournament, and I am proud of all the teams who made into the tournament.

Of course, the just conclud-

ed tour of the Department with National Commander cemented our relationship and confirmed for him that there is no better hospitality than Hoosier Hospitality.

I am indebted to those posts on the tour who opened their doors to feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty and rest to the weary. It was a great success and a week that I will always remember.

Finally, a word of appreciation to the membership team of Bob Sutton, Bill McClure, the four vice commanders and our District and Post Commanders. The year is shaping up well, we are hitting our targets and I am optimistic about the future. I am very pleased with what I see, and what I see is a working commitment to the idea of “Team Unity – Now and For the Future.”

Legionnaires Called To Support VA Health Care Funding Bills

Auxiliary News

I want to take this time

to have our National President Jan Pulvermacher-Ryan visit us.

As we go to press for this issue, I need to ask for assistance from all of Indiana’s Legion Family to help ensure the passage of H.R. 1585 and H.R. 2642 which will provide a substantial increase for VA health care funding.

Stephen W. Short Department Adjutant

Although similar versions of these bills have sailed through both houses of congress and

Working Hard To Promote Legion Family

POW and MIAs.

the President has indicated he will sign the original versions of the bills, House leadership has prevented the measures from leaving their respective conference committees. The word is that the legislation is being held hostage so that additional riders can be attached to the bills. If attached, these additional riders would probably bring a presidential veto from the President thus slowing the influx of these new funds into the VA system.

Chaplain’s Corner

Regardless of your political affiliations, we ask that you please contact your respective Members of Congress to demand that these bills be allowed to go to the President’s desk for his signature. As with most “good” legislation that comes from inside the Washington Beltway, our legislators feel compelled to add tons of extra “pork.” Contact your Member of Congress, thank them for their help in the past and then ask them to

stop playing politics with the health care of our veterans, past, present and future.

On another subject, we’re off to a great start with a very successful Fall Conference as well as a great National Commander tour around Indiana. I want to thank all of those Legionnaires, Auxiliary and SAL members who made both the conference and the tour great events. Special thanks to Orland Post 423 for providing us their outstanding travel bus and driver Bill Shough.

‘Colors Of Life’ Found On Battlefields, Parades, And In Veterans Themselves

to thank my guests who attended our Auxiliary Fall Conference- Commander Tommy Somerville, NEC Darrell Hansel, National SAL Commander Raymond Giehll Jr., and SAL Commander Duane Alexander. It was an added pleasure

Congratulations to Commander Tommy on a successful Fall Conference. It was a pleasure and honor to be a part of your conference.

Judy Butler Auxiliary President

Our auxiliary is already working hard promoting the Auxiliary, Legion, and SAL programs in their units and communities. Members are planning special dinners for our veterans. This is also a special time to honor the

I had the pleasure, along with my Sgt.-At-Arms, Ruth Rairdon, and our Membership Team, Sue Liford and Roxy Stoner, to travel with Commander Tommy and our Legionnaires on our National Commander Marty Conatser’s tour. We had a great time on the trip. Thank all of you for the privilege.

A big ‘Thank You’ to the Tenth District and Commander Kenny Toll for the donation for a room at IVH.

Family Unity To Be Hallmark Of The Year

On behalf of the 35,000 members of the Detachment of Indiana Sons of The American Legion, I bring you greetings.

I wish to congratulate our American Legion Department

Commander Thomas Somerville and American Auxiliary President Judy Butler for being elected to lead their organizations. I would also like to congratulate Raymond P. Giehll Jr., for being elected National Commander of The Sons of The American Legion. Congratulations to everyone who has been elected to serve at no matter which level, for we are all part of the same TEAM.

Commander Somerville, President Butler, and I have pledged our year to be one of promoting Family Unity. We have a chance to make a difference this year and it is our hope that the Legion Family joins us in this venture. From membership to charities, from being there when Indiana troops head to war and being there we they return. To

remembering the veterans of all wars and conflict and reaching out to the youngest child, we have pledged ourselves to be ONE in these endeavors.

Commander Somerville's project this year is the Child Welfare Foundation.

President Butler's projects are furnishing rooms at the Indiana Veterans Home and promoting physical activity at Knightstown Children's Home. My projects this year are to assist in building a home for a disabled veteran with the help of Habitat for Humanity and becoming more involved with Special Olympics. We still need to maintain our ongoing charities: Children's Miracle Network, the Child Welfare Foundation, Indiana Veteran's Home, Knightstown Children's Home, and our other local charities. We as the Legion Family have chosen to do the right things across Indiana by letting everyone know the true vision and purpose of our organiza-

tion since 1919.

Each of the Detachment officers elected or appointed this year is very valuable to me. But these five hold the most important part on where we will be in June 2008. They are my membership team, my go-to guys: Membership Chairman, Glenn Nagel; Northern Vice Commanders, Ron Sexton- districts 4 and 5 -- and Bob Zimmer -- districts 1, 2, and 3; Southern Vice Commanders Phil Purdy -- districts 6, 7, and 8 -- and David Hanson - districts 9, 10, and 11. Working together as a team we will reach our Detachment membership goal, My theme this year is “Maintaining Contact” and part of this theme is making as much information available to everyone as possible. We are using our website (in-sal. org) to attempt this. It is my hope that you will visit it on a regular basis and interact with it as well. Building a better line of communications among our members will make us a better Detachment as well as support our membership and programs. Protecting “our priceless heritage.”

While today is a record breaking day of summer heat, Fall has officially begun. For me the word ‘Fall’ is directly linked to colors. Fall reminds me of the beautiful displays into which tree and bushes will soon be transformed. In just a twinkling of the eye, the rich reds, golden yellows and various shades of brown will appear. The rustling of leaves will soon be at our feet and children will again have new joy playing in them while adults grumble about cleaning them up.

Each season has its own uniqueness, beauty and desirable traits. It was one of the things that I enjoyed years ago when I came home from the service. I could again live in Indiana where we enjoy the four seasons. Our Falls are breathtaking amidst the busy time of harvest with the tan corn husks and golden grain. Soy beans begin to form mountains at the granaries and fields are being clean cut by the voracious combines. I think of journeys to the woods as a child to gather nuts and to search for the elusive bittersweet.

Contrasting the fall displays are the conditions and scenes of the battlefield. Colors are muted and camouflaged. Instead of color the hues of gray, tan and drab green take precedent. Blackened, rusty and ragged metals of various vehicle remains litter the highways and streets. Roads at times become impassable and there are continuous check points. Occasionally some are still burning as plums of thick black smoke rapidly rise to the sky.

While personal closeness may never be matched with one’s buddy or unit, emotions are often muted and stifled. Certain depths and heights are glossed over because dealing with death and the emotions of war can be too difficult to handle. Each war has

Norris Keirn Department Chaplain

received its own diagnosis as to the effect battle has on the combatant.

Even the environment of the battlefield becomes muted with bombings, and fires of battle. Craters of brown earth and tans of sand pockmark the countryside. A once beautiful country can look like a wasteland in a few days. Sections of towns, various buildings, bridges and structures are turned into twisted mounds of unidentifiable refuge. Fields are destroyed, trees uprooted and many of the natural wildlife is destroyed. I remember the distinct absence of birds and their songs. Things take on a surreal existence. After a tour of duty, realities reverse so that the colors of home often bring further alienation. How can life go on as if nothing has happened?

The past two weekends I have been at two different small town parades. All the usual people are there, a few bands, princesses and queens, politicians, and floats. The police, fire fighters and emergency vehicles process with lights flashing and occasional bursts of the sirens. Twirlers throw their batons while flags ripple with coordinated dance. Of course the Shriners appear with wild displays of questionable transportation and various clowns entertain young and old alike. Kids scramble to the streets to pick up the candy and favors thrown from the passing vehicles.

Unique at every parade is the color guard which opens the parade. Usually not far behind is a representation of The American Legion family. There may be a float, a tractor

with a trailer, a fire truck or some form of vehicle but there will be one display where veterans of various wars wave at the people surrounded by red white and blue banners. I especially noticed one float which listed the eras of the veterans on the float. At least three and perhaps four generations were represented. The oldest were pretty elderly while the youngest appeared to have recently graduated.

I thought about the generations of men and women who have served our country preserving the freedom that we all enjoy. All represented have been fought on foreign soil offering liberation and freedom to those in captivity.

I though about the ways each generation of veterans in turn helped those that came after them readjust into the communities from which they came. The unique and special needs of returning veterans were met by those who served in previous battles and by their families. In this I saw the grayness of war disappear and the colors of life coming back to the full.

As the Legion family passed, I saw much more than people to be honored, I saw people who were committed to serve. They represented heroes for sure, but also an organization that stands by those who currently serve and are returning home. Veterans are not just the old guys, but men and women of all ages who have valiantly served to preserve our freedom. We each pick up the torch sharing our comradeship with those new veterans who need our support. The Legion family will be there to help all veterans enjoy the colors of life.

Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up the other; but woe to one who is alone and falls and does not have another to help.

Short Takes