2015 4th Quarter Hoosier Legionnaire

National Commander tours Indiana Legion

Hometown Hoosier Dale Barnett Walks for Veterans

Above: National American Legion Cmdr. Dale Barnett, Department of Indiana National Executive Commiteeman Paul Steward and Department of Indiana Cmdr. Larry Lowry lead the Walk for Veterans at Bryan Cox Post 72 in Crawfordsville, Ind., Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2015. Barnett is touring each department and walking in cities across the nation during his term as national commander to raise awareness for the veterans’ advocacy mission of The American Legion.

Right: Indiana National Guard Deputy Site Director, Maj. Stephen Spencer leads The American Legion National Cmdr. Dale Barnett, and Department of Indiana National Executive Committeeman Paul Steward on a tour of Muscatatuck Urban Training Center, Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2015.

Story & Photos by john crosby

INDIANAPOLIS – The Department of Indiana hosted National Cmdr. Dale Barnett on a state-wide tour visiting Legion posts and walking through communities to raise awareness for our veterans support mission Nov. 1 - 6.

Barnett is touring each state and walking in cities across the nation during his term as national commander to raise awareness for the veterans’ advocacy mission of The American Legion.

Barnett was born and raised in central Indiana. Department Cmdr. Larry Lowry, National Executive Committeeman Paul Steward, Auxiliary President Ruth Rairdon and Sons of The American Legion Detachment Cmdr. Chris Carlton provided Hoosier hospitality to the visiting national commander.

Mayors, state representatives, general officers both active and retired, police and fire chiefs, and prominent Legionnaires came to meet Cmdr. Barnett and show their support for The American Legion at every stop along the way.

Among stops at Legion posts across the state, Barnett was given a capabilities brief

by Indiana National Guard Commanding General Maj. Gen. Corey Carr and a tour of the newly remodeled Joint Forces Headquarters in Indianapolis. The brief conveyed the Indiana Guard’s state of readiness to support state and federal missions worldwide.

Indiana boasts the 4th largest Army National Guard despite being the 16th largest state in terms of population. With more than 14,000 members, the Indiana Guard has an economic impact of more than $560 million to the state.

Barnett and the department also toured the Indiana National Guard’s Muscatatuck Urban Training Center, which included a look at the facility’s

submersible city designed to be flooded for divers training and helicopter extractions, a mock embassy, parking garages with collapsible ceilings, a working power plant with smoke and pyrotechnics, and a courthouse with jails. These are just a few of the training scenarios there making MUTC one of the top 5 urban training centers in the world.

Possibly the culminating event of the tour, Barnett was the keynote speaker at a Veterans Day convocation held at Whiteland Community High School on Thursday, Nov. 5. He is an alumnus of Whiteland Community High School, where he was student body president and captain of the track and basketball teams.

School officials enthusiastically accommodated the commander’s visit, even to

the point of rescheduling the Veterans Day convocation to coincide with the tour. Many of Commander Barnett’s track and field records at Whiteland High School still stand and his name is prominently displayed there. Several of Barnett’s former classmates were present to see him speak.

Barnett and Hoosier Legionnaires participated in three awareness walks during his visit. In Kokomo, Mayor Greg Goodnight and Police Chief Robert Baker joined the walk, winding through downtown and raising support for Legion veteran advocacy.

In Franklin, Barnett stopped in and gave an interview with 100.3 FM KORN Country during a walk around the courthouse downtown.

At the Crawfordsville Bryan Cox Post 72, Indiana National

Guard Brig. Gen. Wayne Black and other VIPs walked with Legionnaires. The walk in Crawfordsville was even video recorded from the sky via a drone provided by local media.

At Kokomo James De Armond Golliday Post 6, Legionnaires took advantage of the warm weather and held friendly competition on the adjoining golf course, $5 per put, putting in $205 for Barnett’s commander’s project, the National Emergency Relief Fund on Monday, Nov. 2.

Elberfeld Post 351 welcomed Cmdr. Barnett with several blasts from a Civil War era cannon stuffed with gun powder, newspaper and a large, ripe Georgia Peach in honor of Barnett’s state of residence, Tuesday, Nov. 3.

Later that evening, he was presented $2000 by the Legion Riders for Operation Comfort Warriors and awarded the key to the city of Mt. Vernon by city councilman Brian Jeffries on behalf of Mayor John Tucker at Owen Dunn Post 5.

“I want to thank all of my department officers, the Auxiliary, the SAL and the riders for their committed effort to make this tour a success,” said Dept. Cmdr.

Lowry. “We couldn’t have done it without your support.

And to all of our post commanders and officers, thank you for your hospitality.

I credit the success of this tour National American Legion Cmdr. Dale Barnett, speaks at Whiteland Community High School during a to all of you.”

Veterans Day convocation held there Thursday, Nov. 5, 2015 He is an alumnus of Whiteland Community High School, where he was student body president, captain of the track and basketball teams.

IN THIS ISSUE Commander’s, Adjutant’s Corner, 2 Chaplain, Membership, NEC, Historian, 3 sal, auxiliary & rehabilitation, 4 district commanders articles, 5 & 6 Commissions fall conf. minutes, 7 & 8 Dept. 5k walk/run for veterans, 8 komets military night, Dues Increase, 9 National Cmdr. Dale Barnett, and Department of Indiana Cmdr. Larry Lowry (right) tour the tunnels beneath Muscatatuck Urban Training Center during Barnett’s tour of Indiana, Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2015.

This quarter in photos, 10

Leading Legionnaire Letters

With Fall Conference behind us and the holiday season approaching, I want to say thank you to all of our Legion officers who dedicate their time and efforts into making this organization great. I hope that my department and district officers have returned to their posts and communities and spread the word about the good things we’re accomplishing together. At Fall Conference, we gave almost $25,000 and rededicated ourselves to supporting Riley Children’s Hospital and the Children’s Miracle Network through the Department Executive Committee.

The new office location and arrangement at Fall Conference seemed to be a success.

Moving our membership and department staff offices from the Wilkie and Harrison rooms to the Freedom Hall helped make our staff more accessible by consolidating them into one area while freeing up valuable meeting room hours. At no additional cost, I think this was a smart and well thought move

by Adjutant Hugh Dagley.

On Sept. 18, Past Department Commander Ken Hylton and I joined veterans and families from across the state to pay homage to our POW/ MIA troops from all eras at the Indiana War Memorial downtown. Shortly after, we hosted a dinner at the Columbia Club downtown to sit down and discuss veterans’ issues with the Big Four. Our collective, common goal in having sitdowns with The Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans, American Veterans and ourselves, is to unite on and align common issues that concern each of our organizations. We are working to consolidate our efforts in

Those who attended the 2015 Fall Conference reported strong support for the revised office and meeting plan tested during the conference. Nearly 50 written response forms were received, all but one of which endorsed the change.

The new set-up, which involved consolidating all office functions into one area, was tested at the request of Department Commander Larry Lowry, who agreed with the assessment of the participants and has approved full implementation of the plan.

The revision was in response to a number of factors, not the least of which was the need for additional meeting space. By consolidating all administrative, membership and convention operations into Freedom Hall at the Indianapolis Marriott, both the former administrative office (Willkie Room) and the

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lobbying for veterans rights and benefits at the Indiana State Capitol.

Together we are working to get bills authored on subjects like opening the military relief fund to all service era veterans who are with or without children, reinstating past remission of fees benefits for children of service disabled veterans as it was prior to 2011, increasing property tax caps for tax exemptions for service connected disabled veterans, expanding veteran’s courts statewide, and more.

As we’ve all heard by now, a dues increase has been passed at both the National and Department. Now, it is up to our posts to determine what their respective increases will be. Across the board, the average seems to come to $45 for one-year membership.

However, and I cannot stress this enough, 2016 membership dues can be paid at the 2015 year rates as long as they are processed by Monday, Jan. 18, 2016. Be sure to allow ample transmittal time for national.

Membership cards need to be submitted in December to lock in 2016 membership at the 2015 rates.

Remember, membership is our life blood and we need to stop the bleeding. Now is the time to roll up our sleeves and get to work on membership.

Despite the dues increase and the current trend downward in membership numbers, I truly believe this is the year we can turn around the membership decline. We are so close, roughly 3 percent at Fall Conference from where we were last year. All I care about is stopping the decline. If we can finish out this membership year at the same number as last year, I call that a victory.

membership office (Harrison Room) were freed for use as meeting space, providing an additional 12 meeting hours.

The move also took the staff and administrative operations out of the mainstream in the atrium, opened up a second hallway for passage through the display area, and eliminated long waits for information and access to staff members.

No additional expense was incurred, and the Freedom Hall space has been added to the meeting space contracts for the balance of the contract period.

DEC Supports Riley Hospital During its regularly scheduled meeting Oct. 4, the Department Executive Committee re-affirmed the Department’s support for Riley Children’s Hospital and its related Foundation. Both are part of the Children’s Miracle Network, a national

Potential members are around every corner. It could be a WWII or Korean Veteran that hasn’t renewed, a Vietnam Veteran that has lived with PTSD for decades and needs our help, or a young Operation Iraqi Freedom, or Operation Enduring Freedom veteran that is still serving in uniform.

We need to continue to grow, adapt, and discover new ways to reach out and connect with our younger veteran generations.

Recently, we held the first inaugural “5k Walk/Run for Veterans” here at the department headquarters in Lawrence. First, I want to thank every branch of our American Legion Family for helping us make this event possible.

Thanks to President Ruth Rairdon and her wonderful Auxiliary for their role in registration, thanks to Detachment Commander Chris Carlton and his Sons of the American Legion for their help in setting up roadblocks and water distribution points, thanks to The American Legion Riders for your help providing supplies and preparing food at the BBQ that followed the event. And thank you to all of our posts that got involved to really make the event what it was.

National Cmdr. Dale Barnett and National Auxiliary President Sharon Conatser attended and participated, as they were in town for the Fall National Executive Committee meetings. Several hundred showed up and Past National Cmdr. Jimmy Kouts announced donations of more than $30,000 to Operation Comfort Warriors. Because of your commitment, we know this event will grow in size and participation in years to come.

We are continuing to refine our efforts here at the department to better position ourselves for the future. We want to create an atmosphere that our new generation can be proud to pick up the torch and carry this great organization through the next era. At the same time we are working to ensure that our programs and methods in place are sound strategically and financially. We value each and every member in this organization. Your input is valuable to us. Thank you to all of our members across our American Legion family for your support. Have a Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year. God bless you all.

confederation that long enjoyed American Legion support.

However, in May 2014, the National Executive Committee rescinded the resolution authorizing National American Legion support for CMN. That decision prompted the Department’s Children and Youth Committee to propose a resolution that continued the Department’s partnership with Riley.

The resolution came on the heels of the presentation of nearly $24,000 to Riley Hospital during the general session. The resolution reads, in part, “The American Legion endorses and reaffirms its support for Riley Children’s Hospital and its related Riley Hospital Foundation … and members, posts and affiliated organizations of The American Legion, Department of Indiana … are hereby encouraged to continue their financial and all other appropriate support activities.”

The DEC also received and recorded a number of resolutions endorsing Legionnaires for future office in the organization. A long-anticipated amendment to The American Legion Riders Constitution which would have authorized the establishment of district-level Riders organizations failed to clear The American Legion Riders Committee, and was not presented to the DEC for consideration.

2016 MEETING DATES Includes Official Holidays for National Headquarters Staff

January 8 – 9 Membership & Post Activities Planning Session January 18 MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DAY HOLIDAY February 15 PRESIDENTS’ DAY HOLIDAY February 16 – 19 Department Service Officers School – Washington, DC February 21 – 24 Washington Conference March 25 GOOD FRIDAY HOLIDAY April 15 – 17 Oratorical Contest Finals – Indianapolis, Indiana May 2 – 5 Spring Meetings May 30 MEMORIAL DAY HOLIDAY July 4 INDEPENDENCE DAY HOLIDAY July 22 – 30 Boys Nation – Washington, DC July 19 – 23 Junior Shooting Sports Tournament – Colorado Springs, Colorado July 28 – 30 Department Service Officers School – Indianapolis, Indiana July 28 – 30 Membership Workshop August 11 – 16 American Legion Baseball World Series – Shelby, North Carolina August 26 – September 1 98th Annual National Convention – Cincinnati, Ohio September 5 LABOR DAY HOLIDAY September 16 – 18 Children & Youth Conference September 23 – 25 Americanism Conference (encompasses Baseball, Boys State, Chaplain, Oratorical & Scouting programs) October 10 – 13 Fall Meetings October 23 – 28 National Legion College November 11 VETERANS DAY HOLIDAY

Organization at the 97th annual National Convention, a $3 increase conditionally approved by the Department Convention in July takes effect.

Effective Jan. 1, 2016, the total per capita which must be submitted to the Department for each member will be $35. Of that, $18.50 will be forwarded to the National Organization and $16.50 will be retained by the Department.

It is essential that all posts in the Department of Indiana submit the total amount of post dues effective Jan. 1, 2016, to the department. Post dues consist of the National portion, the department portion, and the portion that is retained by the post.

Failure to submit the new dues amounts for the post will result in inaccurate renewal notices being sent to post members.

If posts do not submit new, higher post dues totals, they will nevertheless be responsible for the higher per capita amounts and may, in that case, be found with insufficient dues income to cover it.

Many post constitutions have provisions for automatic increases in post dues whenever national or department increases the per capita. These posts also must submit change forms.

The forms are available on the department website at:

of Indiana by motor coach Nov. 1-5, 2015, visiting a number of American Legion posts, touring the Muscatatuck Urban Training Center in Jennings County, and addressing a Veterans Day convocation at Whiteland High School.

He was accompanied on the tour by Department Commander Larry Lowry and his officers, officers from the Indiana American Legion Auxiliary, and leaders from the Indiana Detachment of the Sons of The American Legion.

Commander Barnett, a native Hoosier, graduated from Whiteland High School and attended Hoosier Boys State – which he credits with inspiring him to attend West Point.

Following his graduation and commissioning, he embarked on a 22-year career in the United States Army.

School officials were very enthusiastic to accommodate the commander’s visit, even to the point of rescheduling the Veterans Day convocation to coincide with the tour.

Many of Commander Barnett’s track and field records at Whiteland High School still stand and his name is prominently displayed there.

Also while on tour, the commander participated in at least three “Awareness Walks” in communities across the state. The walks are aptly named, designed to raise http://indianalegion.org/dues- awareness in communities increase.html all across the country of the Legion’s important role in our Per Capita Increase National Commander to communities, state and nation. to Take Effect Tour Department With the passage of a $5 National Commander Dale dues increase by the National Barnett toured the Department

HOOSIER LEGIONNAIRE 4th Quarter 2015

Twitter @IndyLegion

Leading Legionnaire Letters

The American Legion National Commander Dale Barnett opened the Fall Meetings on Wednesday, Oct. 14, by

focusing on three key topics: veterans walks, membership, and the VA. Commander Barnett challenged all Legion

My daughter and her husband are both Marines going to school on the G.I. Bill. Her husband recently re-enlisted in the reserves.

We picked him up at the Atlanta airport after two weeks of training at Quantico. He was very excited about his schooling, the phenomenal staff that taught, and the performance level he achieved. I was proud and excited for him. He hopes to find a way to return to active duty. He simply wants to serve.

I spend quite a bit of time around active duty personnel on my visits with my former Marine son in Okinawa. I am amazed in my talks with them. They want to apply their skills and experience to protect the U.S., and to provide freedom for others against all kinds of odds. What I find are not people who want people to thank them, but those who simply want to do their duty.

Contrasted with this are all the inundations on

Facebook about honoring and thanking veterans. It is relentless with so many graphic pictures and details.

There are many posts saying that if somehow we help the war torn refugees we will be stealing money away from veterans in need. Budgets simply don’t work that way.

It has been our nature throughout the 20th and now 21st century to assist those in need. It is who we are and what we do as Americans.

I am thankful to be a veteran. Veterans are not in the business of acquiring accolades or accumulating gratitude.

We are still simply in the business of service.

As Legionnaires, we do what we do as acts of our own gratitude. May we remember, in this season of remembrance and national Thanksgiving, serving means bestowing, not receiving.

Do everything for the glory of God. 1 Cor. 10:31b

Membership is the heart of any organization and ours is no different. This year is a special year with our new dues increases.

Do not let these increases make you throw your hands up.

Potential new members are all around us as young men and women are now in colleges taking advantage of their G.I. Bill benefits or beginning new lives in the work force.

Those new, young members will be the

future of our American Legion. Middle age or older veterans who might never have had the time or interest for the American Legion may now have a change of heart with more time on their hands. So, although we look forward to young members, never overlook neighbors who you might have known for years!

From now until the end of the year, we are fortunate enough to be able to recruit new

members at your current membership prices.

This should be a good incentive for your post to work membership now instead of waiting until the dues increase.

I hope that every post and district is keeping track of the membership incentives that have been set for this year. Every turn in has rewards.

These incentives are listed in the membership guide. Colts tickets and cash have been awarded

already this year!

Remember, just because something did or did not work in the past, try it again or try something new! Now is a new, exciting time in our organization!

In closing, as my membership theme implies, I’m convoying around the state for membership.

New membership can be as close as next door and stretch across the state!

Just Keep on Truckin’!

departments to conduct a “Walk for Veterans” event to raise awareness about veterans and the Legion’s positive impact on communities nationwide.

As for Legion membership, the Commander stated that six departments are ahead of where they were last year at this time. “That’s not the direction I want to go with membership.

That’s not the direction we need to go. I know it’s difficult, I know it’s hard, but I know you want to be on a winning team, and we’ve got to turn membership around.”

He added that with the dues increase starting in 2016 the next 60 days should be an incentive for Legionnaires to “work membership to be above where we were last year.”

The National Security Commissions meetings during the National Convention in Baltimore had five guest speakers.

One of the speakers, U.S. Army, Deputy Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Joseph Anderson, stated that the Army is currently “sized” and “programmed” at 980,000 troops including active duty, National Guard and Reserves.

Emergent demand for

Army forces increased by 23% at the same time the Army’s budget and end strength decreased.

Some concerns of what will be different with budget decreases are: units may deploy before they are fully prepared; smaller end strength means “a big one” requires entire Army; more likely to deploy for shorter durations with less notification; Less, if any, theatre provided equipment, and much less contracted support.

The next speaker, U.S. Navy, Deputy Chief of Naval Operations, Vice Admiral Joseph Mulloy,

stated the fundamental tenets of the Navy are “warfighting first, operate forward, and be ready”. The current Navy is comprised of 273 ships – 84 deployed; providing global presence 24/7.

Navy has approximately 324,000 active sailors and 57,000 reservists.

The U.S. Marine Corps has 184,000 active Marines and 39,000 reservists. The Navy’s budget has been cut by $25 billion in the last three years and could be cut by another $11 billion in 2016 due to the Budget Control Act of 2011 and sequestration.

From the historian’s files & Archives

The Indiana Centennial encourage posts to start Committee is Launched the process of planning for activities that will Commander Larry begin in 2018. While it Lowry has activated the was apparent that these Department of Indiana topics were new to many, Centennial Committee. it was satisfying to learn The inaugural launch of that overall an excitement that committee will focus permeated the room. I on the historical legacy of am confident that this the past on post, district, first step will lead to the and department levels, Department of Indiana but with an eye on the becoming a major active vision that these Legion participant when the units may have for the National Convention future. convenes here in The committee first met Indianapolis in 2019. at the Fall Conference At the close of the on Saturday, Oct. 3, meeting, I covered with a 2015. The Commander PowerPoint presentation appointed myself as the basics of creating chairman. Attending were the need for a history at representatives from ten the post-level. I can send districts; 19 Legionnaires that presentation to any in all attended. who wish and it should Three goals were be easily adaptable for established at this showing at your post. meeting: The next meeting of the First, creating an annual Department’s Centennial department history Committee, with district contest. Second, helping representation, will be post and district historians held during the Midin compiling history Winter conference. As books. Third, developing with all other meetings more strategies for at conferences, all posts, districts, and the Legionnaires will be Department to help encouraged to attend. celebrate the Legion’s After the adjournment 100th birthday. of the Centennial meeting A number of participants scheduled in January in this first meeting had 2016, I would be happy questions concerning the to hold a workshop on creating of a one-year the specifics of compiling history and to what were a history based on the some ways that they could outline regulations that

are published each year by the National Historian. It is important that these guidelines are followed since it is most likely that when we establish a post history contest at the Department, we will adopt these guidelines.

The reason for this is simple: the winning post at the Department of Indiana will have its book submitted to national as an entry for that contest.

While there will not be a requirement to register for this workshop, it would be very helpful if I could know ahead of time who might attend.

Please email or phone the Department or myself to be put onto the list.

Be aware that there are two types of history books that can be developed at your post: a one-year narrative history and a one-year yearbook/ scrapbook. The major difference between the two is that the narrative is almost exclusively text with few, if any photographs, and the scrapbook/yearbook is mostly photographs and other graphic material with a modest amount of text. By the way, most of the entries at the national contest for the judging in October consist of the scrapbook/yearbook variety since many consider this type of book easier to compile.

Hint: create an entry for the Community Involvement Committee judging using the National Historians guidelines.

In addition to encouraging histories at a post level, national’s Centennial Committee established a working group to create a sample ‘media kit’ that would

highlight a department’s accomplishments and history while at the same time demonstrate its current work and vision for the future. Our Department has been chosen to be that model Department! Creating a placemat or broadsheet type of printed sheet of paper (11x17), perhaps a short booklet, and a five minute video will give other departments a sample for guidance.

HOOSIER LEGIONNAIRE 4th Quarter 2015

Staff members of The American Legion Magazine along with your Communications Director, John Crosby and myself, will be part of that team.

Did your post sponsor a Boys State candidate who later became wellknown? Does your post have a community-related program that no other post has? Let us know! Your post is part of the history of the Department.

Those posts not involved

in the planning for The American Legion’s Centennial Celebration in 2018/2019 will be sorry that they missed an opportunity to highlight their past accomplishments and shine a beacon on what their vision is for the future. Will your membership suffer if no one knows who you were and who you are?

Facebook.com/IndianaLegion

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Indiana American Legion Auxiliary This has been a busy and interesting three months enjoying many things in our Legion Family.

Beginning with the Popcorn Festival, Fall Conferences, the 5K Awareness Walk/ Run and going on the National Commander tour. We will continue working as a family; Legion, Auxiliary, SAL and Legion Riders,

marching together in the Veterans Day Parade in downtown Indianapolis. What a wonderful site it was to see.

We are happy to report that the Auxiliary did make its first membership promise date reaching over the 35% of membership.

We will continue to work on membership for not only the

Auxiliary, but all of the Legion Family.

I would like to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from all the Auxiliary members and my family.

May your travels over the holidays be safe and joyful. Please keep the homeless veterans in your prayers and give a helping hand

when able.

Keep those that have served our country and those now serving along with their families in our prayers.

A special thank you to the Legion office staff for being so helpful to the Auxiliary, you are outstanding.

I would like to thank all of my district commanders and detachment officers for a great turn out at our fall DEC. We had a wonderful conference and accomplished many things.

As the leaves change, the temperature drops and we move into winter, I encourage us all to keep the fire going. Our job does not

stop because the season changes. We still have members to renew and new members to find.

We all know that our membership is our life blood and it is only with them that our programs will succeed.

I would like to challenge those of you that are not involved to take a look at the different program of the American Legion and pick something to

try. There is always something going on. For example, now is a great time to get involved with the oratorical program.

Soon the post contest will start and that leads all the way to the national contest.

Volunteers are needed at each stage. The students need the encouragement as well.

Remember my two projects this year; the

Indy Vet's House, and the Child Welfare Foundation. One is for our veterans and the other taking care of our future.

Help our detachment once again lead the way and show why we are the 2nd largest detachment in the nation.

In closing I would like to say THANK YOU for all of your hard work thus far!

Indiana sons of the American Legion

Department Veteran service officer

In an effort to better serve veterans, the American Legion Department of Indiana and the Indiana Department of Veterans

Affairs (IDVA) recently signed a memorandum of understanding.

VA’s claims and appeals representation can only be provided by VA

accredited individuals who have passed an extensive United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) background check, had character references verified, and have completed a VA course of training.

The American Legion Department of Indiana is a VA accredited organization. Its VA accredited service officers currently provide claims and appeals representation to thousands of Indiana veterans.

The IDVA has always been very involved

with veterans benefit issues, especially issues involving State veterans’ benefits.

IDVA, however, has not previously been accredited for VA claims representation purposes.

Before the federal government grants “accreditation” to a state Department of Veterans Affairs, the state must submit a written plan showing how it will “represent” veterans and their claims before the federal Department of Veterans Affairs.

The American Legion, Department of Indiana, has therefore

agreed to partner with IDVA by assisting with representing veterans with VA claims at IDVA’s request. In return, IDVA can justify becoming a VA “accredited” State organization and expand its services by hiring additional Indiana State Veterans Service Officers, improving the training of county veterans service officers, and conducting more veterans outreach services.

As a “partner,” The American Legion Department of Indiana also hopes to eventually receive an Indiana

State Veterans Service Organization funding supplement to help with the Legion’s claims and appeals representation costs.

Department of Indiana Cmdr. Larry Lowry, signed the Memorandum of Understanding on September 11, 2015 which can be terminated by either party upon 30 days written notice.

We do, however, hope this is the beginning of a long and successful partnership for both the Legion and the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs.

Veteran service office Update Department Service Office November Business Hours: The office will also be closed on Thursday, November 26th and Friday, November 27th for the Thanksgiving holidays.

The office will otherwise be open each Monday through Friday from 7:30 AM until 4:00 PM during the month of November. Appointments are necessary for client visits. You may contact the department service office by calling our direct number of 317-9163605; calling a long distance toll free number of 1-888-7237999, extension 1; faxing us at 317-916-3406; or by using the following e-mail address: al.vbaind@va.gov.

Local Service Issues: American Legion Department of Indiana Service Office Webpage: If you ever wonder what the American Legion Veterans Service Office does for veterans, please go to: http://www.i ndia nalegion. org/, click “Services” found at the top of the webpage, and then click “Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation”. You first will find a scary picture of our staff (minus Steve Hicks who has yet to be added to the picture), a copy of the “policy letter” we send all new clients, past Veterans Service Update articles, a Service Officer Training Manual and Service Officers Workbook and Test, an Incarcerated Veterans Guide, and Highlights of Benefits Won. The Highlights of Benefits Won section helps best explain why The American Legion provides veterans’ claims and appeals services.

New Post Service Officers Training Seminar, Attention: Post Service Officers and Post Commanders: Place and Time: Department Mid-Winter

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Conference, Saturday, January 9, 2016, 8:00 AM until Noon, Marriott Hotel, 7202 East 21st Street, Indianapolis, Indiana.

Topics: Post service officers’ duties and responsibilities, ethics, the rehab program, Temporary Financial Assistance (TFA), homeless veterans program, claims representation, veterans service and membership, avoiding common mistakes, newly discharged veterans consultation checklist, replacing the DD Form 214, disability compensation, nonservice connected pension, survivors compensation and pension, burial benefits, the appeals process, military correction and review board issues, concurrent receipt and combat related special pay, National Personnel Records Center, VA medical benefits, and informal and fully developed claims.

Department Service Officers will also conduct an open panel discussion to help answer any veterans’ benefits and service issues of concern to the audience.

Added Resources: Service officers may also find the post service officers online home study course by opening the Department website at: ht t p://www.i ndia nalegion. org/, clicking “Services” then “Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation, and then clicking “Service Officer Training Manual.” Service officers may then also complete the Service Officer Workbook and Test and receive a Certificate of Completion signed by the Department Commander Why and How: This seminar will help American Legion posts assist its members with veterans benefit issues, and

improve membership through services. Pre-registration is not required. All post service officers, especially new post service officers, are encouraged to attend. The training session is free, but attendees will likely incur costs associated with travel and lodging. Active post service officers volunteer much of their time while assisting post members. Post may now help their service officers by sponsoring their attendance at this training session, and then reap the benefit of their service officer’s increased knowledge.

National Service Issues: VA’s Duty to Assist with Defective Hearing Claims: VA has a duty to assist by obtaining medical opinions when necessary to substantiate a claim. Four things, however, must be present before VA has a duty to authorize the scheduling of compensation examinations: (1) Competent evidence of a current medical condition; (2) Evidence of an event occurring in service or during a presumptive period following service; (3) An indication that the medical condition is associated with the event or another service connected disability; but (4) Insufficient competent medical evidence for VA to make a decision on the claim. (See 38 USC 5103A(d) VA has been very good about authorizing compensation examinations in attempts to obtain linking medical opinions for defective hearing claims when military records note the veteran had participated in a military occupation exposing him or her to noise trauma. That fact alone, however, will not cause VA to authorize the compensation examination. The veteran would still have to provide a

statement along with the claim to meet the requirement of numbers 2 and 3 above. The statement should explain the circumstance pertaining to the noise exposure in service and the veteran’s belief that his or her hearing problems are related to that event. VA would then have a duty to assist by asking a VA doctor to conduct a compensation examination and offer an opinion pertaining to if the veteran’s current defective hearing is related to the reported noise exposure in service.

Of course, the veteran could improve the chances of obtaining a favorable medical opinion if the veteran’s statement would also note, if true, that he or she has experienced some degree of defective hearing ever since the in-service noise trauma, and, if true, he or she has not been exposed to noise trauma since service discharge near to the extent and duration of the noise trauma exposure during service. Copies of supporting medical records and/or lay statements provided with the claim could also help the compensation doctor link the defective hearing to the inservice event. That evidence would need to help establish the fact that the veteran has experienced hearing problems ever since the noise event in service. The claimant should supply as much supporting evidence as possible with the formal compensation claim.

VA has been processing fully developed compensation claims within 3 to 4 months or less. If the claim is denied and the veteran must file an appeal, that appeal may linger for years before it is finally resolved.

Hepatitis C: Hepatitis C is a blood-borne

HOOSIER LEGIONNAIRE 4th Quarter 2015

virus that causes inflammation of the liver leading to cirrhosis and liver cancer. The Hepatitis C virus is often transmitted through blood contact of someone already infected with the virus. That person might not even know they are infected since symptoms of Hepatitis C often do not come apparent for years after a person is infected. People also at risk include those who received blood product before 1987 when viral inactivation started, and who received blood transfusions before 1992 when effective screening procedure were instituted. (Medical information source found at: http://www.hepmag.com/ articles/2951_18753.shtml) American Legion National Commander, Dale Barnett, notes within his November 6, 2015 web page article that (1) Over 5 percent of veterans enrolled in the care of the Veterans Health Administration have Hepatitis C; (2) Up to 75 percent of people with chronic Hepatitis C in the United States do not know they have it: and (3) Approximately 80 percent of those people experience no symptoms following infection.

Commander Barnett’s article notes Hepatitis C is curable, but the first step is to be tested.

Veterans should ask their VA primary care provider about testing for the Hepatitis C virus, especially if they were exposed to blood from others during service.

Veterans diagnosed with Hepatitis C, might also consider filing a claim for service connection if they had contact with blood from others during service, received blood products in service before 1987 or received a blood transfusion during service before 1992.

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from the District Commanders

Well the 1st District hit the ground running.

The officers and I have visited every post in the district on our Friday “Meet and Greets”. I know the officers feel the same as I do, in that we have met many of our legion family during our tour and made many new friends.

We are planning to participate in a Halloween Trick or Treat on Oct. 30, sponsored

by Momentum Church in Crown Point IN. The event is aimed to bring

I am so very proud of the hard work of our 2nd District Membership Team, led

by Robert Harding of North Webster, Post #253. Team members Julie Newell, Bob Pratt, Larry Burkhart, Rick Sanders, Pete Amodei and James Hall have all worked diligently to keep 2nd District at the top of membership.

I was very impressed by the Post Education Seminar held at Valparaiso Post #94 by 2014-2015 Department Membership Chairman, Bruce Steffen.

Posts from both 1st and

Many great things occurred at Fall Conference. National and Department per capita dues increase is underway and coming with a drive to increase membership.

Slow and steady wins the race but we are still behind the ball and have a long road to home. Turn those cards in ASAP as new dues rate start to take effect on Jan. 18, 2016.

Bristol Post 143 held a flag retirement ceremony with their local Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts at the Post in September.

Keep up the good work Bristol.

American Legion Osceola Post 308 did an excellent job working Legion programs.

Post 308 Sons of The American Legion had a wonderful turn out for a

children and parents from all over the county to the Lake County Fair Grounds where about 50 cars will hand out nearly 2 tons of candy to children.

The 1st District will be on hand to help keep it a safe environment as well as talk to potential members and take membership applications.

Thank you to our rookie Vice Commander Dan Mills for being the point man for the district. The more we are involved

2nd District were represented at this Seminar. I look forward to the next seminar which will be held December 5th at Pierceton, Post #258. I hope more posts take the opportunity to attend this seminar.

National Cmdr. Dale Barnett will be visiting our District on Nov. 4, and I look forward to the opportunity to meet with him again at West Lafayette Post #492.

I am also looking forward to the Indianapolis Veterans Day Service and Parade which will take place on Wednesday,

benefit held there with a total of $1,500 of proceeds donated to Operation Comfort Warriors and $500 donated to the Indiana Veterans Home by the Legion.

Osceola Post 308 Legion Riders travelled from the post to Pennsylvania, Sept. 7, where they set up for a week of remembrance.

The following day they rode to the naval shipyard in Philadelphia where they toured the Chapel of the Four Chaplains and saw the Mothball Fleet before heading downtown to tour the Vietnam veteran’s memorial, the Korean War memorial, a WWII sub and a WWI battle ship.

On Sept. 9 they went to ground zero in Manhattan where they held a

in the community the easier it will be to gain new membership. Dan is also working on being able to set up a membership table at Sears in Westfield Mall in Hobart during the upcoming holidays.

I am also working on a membership table inside of the Merrillville Costco during December. Of course, when this is all approved we will be inviting the Second District to participate.

I truly believe with all this going on that the 1st District will be trucking right on through to a very good membership year. The Officers and Members of the 25 posts in the 1st District extend our heartfelt wishes for everyone to have a Wonderful Holiday Season.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the everyone here in the 1st District.

Nov. 11.

It was extremely exciting to hear that Job Ready Vets was awarded a $1 million grant and will be expanding out of Indianapolis to other areas of the state in order to help veterans make the transition back to civilian life.

I truly believe that finding employment for our Veterans is key to not only their future but to the future of the Legion.

It is an honor to serve the 2nd District as well as under the guidance and leadership of one of the District’s finest, Department Commander Larry Lowry. Larry and his wife Claudia are an amazing team and an inspiration.

The 2nd District suffered a great loss with the recent passing of Past 2nd District Commander, Dick Motsinger. His presence is greatly missed.

memorial service. They placed a wreath in honor of those that perished on 9/11 and those that have lost their lives in defense of our nation since. Then after seeing Battery Park they took a harbor cruise that included Lady Liberty and Ellis Island.

On Sept. 10 they travelled to Washington DC to the pentagon where again they performed a ceremony and laid a wreath honoring our fallen comrades from the pentagon during the 9/11 attacks. They also saw Arlington, the Mall, and ate dinner down town.

On Sept. 11 they rode to Shanksville, Pa., where they again held a service honoring the passengers and crew from flight 93 as well as our military dead since 9/11, laid a wreath, toured the monuments there and assisted the Flight 93 associations with a flag demonstration.

May we never forget those that have died in defense of our freedom.

Osceola Post 308 was over 100% membership last year and sure to be again this year. It’s because of their focus on community and commitment to Legion Programs. Good luck to everyone during this year’s membership drive.

Greetings from the Fourth!

What a great time at Fall Conference!

Especially the Commander’s Party.

It was an extra nice bonus for Membership Chairman Jesse Booker and I to receive Colts

My Fellow Legionnaires, at the time I began writing this letter The Mighty 5th District is standing with renewed strength.

The commander and I have been out on the membership trail discussing the changes throughout the national organization and the Department of Indiana with the upcoming dues increase.

We also have been focusing on our programs and their importance to our future as a Legion.

Greeting from the 6th District.

With another successful Fall Conference completed, as always, we have been given a lot of useful information.

Now we must take this information and help the posts in our District to become successful.

The department has established a Post Education Committee in each district with three purposes. First, to get members to want to serve their posts in the various offices and committees.

Second, to promote The Department of Indiana’s mission to our veterans and our youth. And third, to secure the vision of the future of our organization and its position in our communities, speaking with one voice throughout the state.

tickets. Exciting game except for that OOPSIE. I must sadly announce the passing of past District Commander Herbert Myers of Post 240. Herbie joined the Legion back when dues were about $2.50.

He will be missed by

many.

It’s election time again. Everyone must study the candidates to see what they really stand for, then get out and vote. It’s not just a privilege, it’s YOUR DUTY! We are pretty excited about taking part in the National Commander’s tour and meeting him.

Veterans Day is coming up soon. Please take time to participate in ceremonies, parades, and other public events.

Wearing The American Legion attire to these gatherings helps bring public awareness and recognition to our organization.

Thank you, until we meet again!

During our visit to the posts within our district we have been encouraged by what we have seen.

A post which had been struggling is now flourishing. Posts are completing a lot of remodeling projects, gearing up for the Americanism and Flag Etiquette testing and preparing candidates for the Oratorical competitions.

However with the Holiday season quickly approaching let’s keep in mind the families that are in need. Posts

must continue to be vigilant in our efforts to look after our fellow comrades and continue to educate ourselves and membership about these programs that will benefit such individuals.

The TFA and CEWF are programs that our posts are utilizing. Also, many of our Legionnaires’ participated in Stand Downs throughout our districts.

It is with a heavy heart to report the loss of two great men, whom have done so much with in the Legion family. The persons of whom I speak of are, Past Northern Vice Commander Michael ‘Jocko” Comerford and Past Department Sergeant At Arms David Ritenour. Please keep these families in your thoughts and prays as well our men and women serving in the Armed Forces.

In closing, the Mighty 5th is strong in our resolve, for god and country!

Headquarters, the 6th will rise to the top again.

Dues Increase: As everyone should know by now, at the 2015 American Legion National Convention, a national per capita dues increase of $5 was approved. At the same time, the Department of Indiana has approved a per capita increase of $3.

This will increase dues from $27 to $35 annually effective Jan. 18, 2016.

Only a post can set your per capita for its members. If your post wishes to increase its dues, a Post Data Form must be submitted through the department for transmittal to National Headquarters.

The Post Data Form must be received by the department no later than Dec. 4, 2015 in order to be reflected on the last renewal notice by National before the dues increase takes effect in January. The form can be found on the department website at:

Membership: The 6th went into the Fall Conference in second place and came out in fourth. The race is very close and I am sure as we proceed to the next card turn-in on Nov. 6 and 7 at Department www.indianalegion.org

HOOSIER LEGIONNAIRE 4th Quarter 2015

Children and Youth Programs: During the months of October, November and December, the Jr. and Sr. Americanism and Government Testing Program should be going on in our district’s Schools. All posts should submit their winners to the district in December.

Also in December, the posts should receive enrollment applications for the Oratorical Contest to be submitted to the Department.

The Indiana Blue Star program will be holding its 2nd Annual Spirit of Christmas for Military Families that are in need for the Holidays. It will be held at the Hendricks County Fairgrounds, Danville, Ind. on Dec. 19, from 10-2pm. Anyone who would like to contribute please send a check to the Indiana Blue Star Program 375 Avon Ave., Avon, IN 46123.

The veterans of Vigo county have come together to establish a veterans park around Memorial Stadium named Vigo County Veterans Memorial Park.

See it online at vigovmp.com.

The 6th District has a new website, visit us at indlegiondist6.org. We are still developing the site. In closing remember that it’s not the price you pay to be a member but it’s the price you and your family paid to be eligible.

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from the District Commanders

Greetings from the Fighting 7th.

Even with the quota and looming dues increase our team is doing a great job. We have had a couple of Post education classes

Greetings from "The Great 8th". I would like to thank all of the Legionnaires that placed their trust in me as 8th District commander. It is truly an honor to serve in this position and I accept the challenge we have this year.

We, like all the other districts in Indiana, were hit with a double whammy on membership this year.

The combination of a dues increase coupled with an increase in goals was unexpected and will make our membership a real challenge for 20152016. In addition to drive arounds, district meetings, phone calls and mailings, our membership team has been busy trying to attend as many membership meetings as possible to inform our members of the upcoming dues increase.

One of the things I have learned about The American Legion is that if your post is involved in the community and our youth,

since the elections and are still offering one-onone training with any post officers who would like training or even a refresher course.

Several of our posts have had benefits for

their members and/ or the community, if anyone is interested in learning more check out our Facebook page, “American Legion 7th District Department of Indiana”. It is open to any post in the 7th District that would like to advertise upcoming events.

I would like to ask all of our members to try and renew by the end of the year to avoid the dues increase that will take effect in January. If you have any questions please contact your post or any district officer.

They will be more than happy to answer any questions. Keep up the great work!

the membership will follow. That has worked at my post in Newburgh and I know it will work at other posts. We have to change the perception of the American Legion from a place where people go to drink, gamble and have a good time to an organization that is an integral part of the community.

The participation in Boys State, Girls State, Flag Education, Americanism & Government, Boys Scouts, Girl Scouts, scholarships and numerous other programs are a way to let the community know what we are all about. When nonmember veterans in the community learn about these programs, they will want to become a part of an organization that promotes them.

Kapperman Post 44 in Newburgh recently held their annual Elmer & Agnes party and earmarked money for

Operation Comfort Warriors.

At our Fall Conference in Indianapolis, Post 44 Commander Dave Noble presented Department Commander Larry Lowry a check for $1000 for OCW. Kurt Pfeiffer, commander of Elberfeld Post 351, and Ron Byrley, commander of Boonville Post 200, presented checks to Riley's Hospital in Warrick County totaling $1,500 for toys for the children in the ward.

Mt. Vernon Post 5 recently shared their good fortune from their record breaking Treasure Hunt game with donations to local city and county agencies, American Legion Programs and local not for profit civic minded groups. We at Post 5 want to sincerely thank all of you state-wide who supported our fundraiser and made it such a huge success.

I need your input for future 8th District articles going into the Hoosier Legionnaire. If your post or someone in your post does something newsworthy, please send it to Dave Sharber by e-mail to wobegone@att.net, or by mail at PO Box 493 in Mt. Vernon, IN 47620.

We need newsworthy Legion, veteran and com mu n it y-related information. Be proud of your post and your Legion Family. Share what they are doing.

For more than four decades the Legionnaire Insurance Trust Program has been your Department endorsed source for Membership Benefits and Insurance Plans.

Today, 48 Legion Departments representing some 2.0 million members comprise the LIT. For more information visit:

I would like to start off by saying to the members of the 9th District and to the members of the Department of Indiana, thank you. I am so blessed to be put in the position of 9th District commandership.

The goals that I have set for myself in the upcoming year that are also your goals, is simply to be the very best.

That’s what I intend to do because I feel that is what you put me here to do; to be the very best.

The 9th District started off at the state convention by seeing State Commander Ken Hylton, from the 9th District, finish out his year. I believe it is safe to say that we as 9th District members were so fortunate to have had Ken in that position. His commitment as state commander and to The American Legion as a whole was second-tonone. We simply say this to you Ken, we as your Legion brothers, sisters

Greetings from the Friendly 11th District. As you know there has been a dues increase and it will be in effect as of Jan. 18, 2016. We are making a concerted effort to get as many memberships renewed before the price increase as possible.

Included in this effort is a drive-around. If you have not paid, you are encouraged to pay your dues by middle of December to account for necessary processing time by your post and department headquarters to renew. If you know

and family members, love you.

It was made clear to us at the end of the state convention that the 9th District along with others are being faced with some steep challenges which include, but is not limited to, membership goals combined with the per capita dues increase.

Let there be no mistake, we in the 9th District plan on meeting and exceeding these challenges. Our plan is to grow our district and to grow The American Legion as an organization. We will not go backwards, we will push forward.

I have been east to west, north and south throughout the 9th District visiting our posts to gain input about all issues concerning our district and membership.

I want you to know as 9th District members, I appreciate your honesty and being front and center on the issues at hand. It doesn’t do anybody any good to say nothing.

a veteran in need of a DD214, go to: http:// vetrecs.archives.gov.

Remember, membership is every Legionnaire’s part!

Robert E Kennington, Post 34, has a new post home at 2210 E 54th St in Broad Ripple.

The following are our district meeting dates and locations for the next year. Please have someone from your post represented at each meeting.

December we are at Post 497 (3011 N. Guion

The 97th National Convention in Baltimore, Md., was a real learning experience for me as our district was represented by six delegates. The knowledge that was displayed by these delegates from the 9th District honored us well.

I would like to thank Cmdr. Larry Lowry for his attention to detail and hospitality at the national convention. The bus ride there and back from Baltimore was absolutely fantastic.

In the middle of September, a delegation from the 9th District visited the Indiana Veterans Home in Lafayette, Ind. That visit really got to me as a human being. It showed me that when it comes right down to it, Americans and Legionnaires value human life and human comfort more than any other country on the face of the Earth.

We, as Americans and Legionnaires have a standard of caring that is unheard of. I would say this to you my fellow Legionnaires, if you want to know some of the things The American Legion does then pay a visit to the Indiana Veterans Home. The proof is in the pudding.

In closing, I would like to say this to my 9th District family, the friendship and closeness that you have shown I will cherish forever, we are truly brothers and sisters.

Thinking of you always.

Rd), February is at Post 88 (1146 N Olive), March is at Post 64 (601 S Holt Rd), April is at Post 276 (327 Main St, Beech Grove), May is at Post 355 (7610 S Meridian), and June at Post 3 (6379 N College). Our remaining posts are at 2523 Dr. Martin Luther King Dr (Post 249), 8725 E 38th St (Post 495), Post 500 (1926 Georgetown Rd).

If you are in Indianapolis area, please feel free to stop by any of our posts.

We are looking forward again to the Four Chaplain’s Service which will be coming up in February at Post 64.

It is a great way to honor veterans and to further the cause of “Unity without Uniformity”.

Thanks to the Ladies Auxiliary for assistance throughout the year, along with the SAL and Legion Riders for their continued support. Wishing you all a Happy Holidays throughout the season and looking forward to seeing everyone at the January Mid-Winter Conference.

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HOOSIER LEGIONNAIRE 4th Quarter 2015

Twitter @IndyLegion

fall conference commission reports discussed. It was determined that insurance ends after the last Legion game. Joe Rivich, Tom Somerville, and Randy Dooley have resigned. Joe Kusiak has been appointed to replace Joe Rivich. Mel Vincent has been appointed to replace Tom Somerville.

The Americanism Commission met on Oct. 3, 2015, at 4:15 p.m. in Salon C of the Marriott East Hotel.

Allen Connelly opened the meeting in proper form.

Roll call disclosed all members present except for National Liaison Representative, John Hayes. The minutes of the Spring Conference were approved as printed in the Hoosier Legionnaire.

The following committee reports were received:

Bowling Committee The Bowling Committee met and a motion was approved to accept the bid from Post 18 in Bloomington to host the 2017 tournament.

Discussion ensued about dressing lanes between shifts.

Discussion was Baseball Committee tabled until bowlers can be The Baseball Committee surveyed. met and discussed players’ insurance and dates for Golf Committee games and tournaments. A Trophies from the 2015 motion was approved to set tournament were presented.

July 19, 2016 as the deadline James Tracey discussed for season completion. changes needed to the National regional existing rules. tournament will be August After discussion, it was 3rd in Altoona, Ill. agreed to allow the rules to be revised and sent to all Baseball district representatives for Executive Committee review and revisions and The Baseball Executive that rule changes will be Committee met and dual discussed at the Mid-Winter participation and roster was Conference.

National Security/Foreign Affairs Committee Several discussions took place regarding immigration, sequestration, refugees, the use of our reserves and National Guard, on the downsizing of our military, and being prepared for longtime conflicts.

Richard Brown spoke about the cost of reserves versus active duty military. The committee will meet at the Mid-Winter Conference.

POW-MIA Committee It was announced that the Defense Prisoner of War/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO), Joint Prisoner of War/Missing in Action Accounting Command (JPAC) and Life Sciences Equipment Laboratory (LSELL) became the Defense POW/ MIA Accounting Agency on Jan. 30, 2015. Michael S. Linnington, retired Lt. General, was appointed as the first full time director.

Discussion ensued regarding placement of the POW/MIA flag on the state house and why it wasn’t flown this

Boy’s State Enrollment Committee Scott Weyler, second district Chairman, gave a report on the new line application form.

The committee will meet at the Mid-Winter Conference.

The Children and Youth Commission met on Oct. 3, 2015, at 4:15 p.m., at the Marriott East Hotel.

Rodney Strong opened the meeting in proper form. Roll call disclosed all members were present. The minutes of the Spring Conference were approved as printed in the Hoosier Legionnaire. The following committee reports were received:

The committee will not meet at the Mid-Winter Conference.

Americanism and Government Committee Chairman Rees Morgan gave an overview of the Americanism and Government program. There are ten (10) state winners from five (5) grades.

Posts are to submit their winners to the district and the district is to submit them to the department.

Test orders are due to the department by Oct. 16, 2016.

The committee will meet at the mid-winter conference for one hour to go over tests for winners.

American Legion Family Scholarship Committee Chairman John Lloyd appointed five members to the re-election committee: John Lloyd, Oscar Lopez, Coleman Sumrall, Dave Espich, and Jeff Spickelmier.

A motion was approved to request $40 from the Boy Scouts Committee department for a plaque to Discussion ensued on boys recognize Past Department that have churches that won’t Commander Mike Miller. give religious awards.

The Internal Affairs Commission met on Oct. 3, at 4:15 p.m. at the Marriott East Hotel in Salon E. Martin Dzieglowicz opened the meeting in proper form.

Roll call disclosed ten members were present and two were absent. The minutes of the Spring Conference were approved as printed in the Hoosier Legionnaire.

Discussion ensued regarding the creation of a spousal auxiliary. A number of

questions were raised concerning this matter.

A resolution was accepted and approved concerning American Legion Riders and was forwarded to the Resolution Screening Committee.

The following committee reports were delivered: Community Involvement Committee Discussion took place about $5,000 loaned to the

year on POW/MIA Day. The committee will meet for one hour at the mid-winter conference.

SAL Department Advisory Committee The SAL Department Advisory Committee met and passed a motion to accept the minutes from the previous meeting. Dates for Indiana Veterans Home Bingo were set for Oct. 10, 2015, Dec. 19, 2015, and Feb. 13, 2016. The resolution for detachment commander was withdrawn by Craig Strebe.

The committee approved a motion to request funds of $500 for Special Olympics, $500 for the 5-star program, and up to $1,500 for expenses for a trip for Dave Stephens to go to California on Nov. 7, 2015 for Stephens’ induction into the SAL Hall of Fame.

There being no further business to come before the commission, the meeting was adjourned in proper fashion at 5:01 p.m.

Flag Education/ Etiquette Committee Discussion ensued regarding a duplicate question on the fourth grade Flag Education and Etiquette test. A motion was passed to use the test as it is for 2015 and change one of the duplicated questions for Children and Youth the 2016 year. The committee Committee will meet at the Mid-Winter The Department Adjutant Conference for at least one spoke about expanding the FF/ hour.

LO/EMS Luncheon to include the District Educator of the Girl Scout Committee Year winners. A motion was Vice Chairman, Daniel passed to expand the luncheon Lee, spoke about getting out and for the districts to pay for program awareness to younger the costs of district winners. girl scouts so that they’re Chairman Dave Sharber more aware of the benefits restated the committee’s of the program. Girl scouts intent to raise funds for is not listed as a program in Riley children’s Hospital the Legion program guide as Foundation, which are to be printed by the post education collected at the 2016 spring committee. The committee conference. The committee will meet at the mid-winter will meet at the Mid-Winter conference.

Conference.

Junior Shooting Sports Children’s Education and Committee Welfare Committee Discussion took place Jerry Jordon introduced regarding the many resources Denzel Combs, a former on the American Legion student at the Knightstown national website. Ida Jewell Children’s Home. Mr. Combs indicated that she will send would like monies to go to applications and match Ball State University in the fall programs. On Nov. 7, 2015, of 2016. A motion was passed Waynedale will hold an to allow Jerry Jordon to help invitational. The department Mr. Combs. Tony Riley read tournament will be on March the finance report. A motion 12, 2016, at a location to be was passed that monies will determined. The committee go only to districts and posts. will meet at the Mid-Winter A motion was passed to send Conference, for a full day in four (4) applications back to be a large room, to accommodate revamped. a shooting demonstration and

slide presentation.

Department of Indiana.

Eric Baggett indicated that he would report on the disposition of the return of the funds at the Mid-Winter Conference meeting. Many districts have been working with their communities.

A number of Town Hall meetings were also discussed.

that the department adjutant be allowed to put changes in proper form through a resolution.

approved to consolidate the award luncheon with military winners, educator winners, etc. to cut down on waste and make better use of the room. Discussion took place indicating that department winners’ submissions had not been returned. A motion was approved to have the department make a copy of the two winning books and Convention return the originals to the Contest Committee winners. The committee The Convention Contest will meet at the Mid-Winter Committee decided to hold Conference. the convention contest at Post 495.

Legion Riders Committee Chairman Hudson indicated The Legion Riders that this would be his last Committee met and there meeting as Chairman. The was lengthy discussion on committee will meet at the the Riders’ contemplated Mid-Winter Conference. by-law change. Adjutant Dagley gave his views on Firefighter/Law & the change. A motion by Order/EMS Awards George Wilson to change the Committee ALR constitution was not The Firefighter/Law seconded. The motion failed. and Order/EMS Awards A motion was approved Committee met and in new to bring constitution up to business, a motion was standards and to request

HOOSIER LEGIONNAIRE 4th Quarter 2015

Oratorical School Awards Committee Discussion ensued on getting into schools. The Children and Youth Commission Chairman, Rodney Strong, suggested going to the school boards to get the committee’s foot in the door, if that’s what needs to be done. The committee approved application deadline for Dec. 11, 2015, and the date for the department contest as March 6, 2016. District contest dates were announced. There was discussion indicating that the committee may consider setting a cutoff date for winners to use scholarship money. The committee will meet at the mid-winter conference.

A motion was made by Dave Sharber to forward the Children and Youth Resolution regarding funds going to the Riley Children’s Hospital Foundation to the Department Executive Committee on Oct. 4, 2015.

The motion was seconded

by Stan Gatewood and passed.

The committee needs to meet for one hour at the Mid-Winter Conference. With no further business to come before the commission, the meeting was adjourned in proper fashion at 4:45 p.m.

Legislative Committee Executive committeeman Darrell Hansel reported on the national organization’s legislative priorities.

Discussion ensued about the displeasure of VA undersecretary Alison Hickey, indicating that she should be fired for repositioning managers at higher pay for ineffective work. It was determined that veterans courts are needed in all districts.

Membership Committee Chairman Bob Oeth stated that the Department is just under goal at 59.26%. The national goal is 62%. It was discussed that membership needs to work smarter, not harder.

- Continued on Page 8

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fall conference commission reports - Continued from the Internal Affairs Commission Report Communications Director John Crosby discussed ways to enhance the American Legion’s ability to communicate, especially to younger veterans, through the use of tools such as social media, Pandora, and Comcast.

The Rehabilitation Commission met at the Marriott East Hotel during the Fall Conference. The following committee reports were received.

Chairman Bill Parks reported that the Employment Committee Passed out Employment Award Applications to all district representatives.

Tony Cross from Job Ready

New Post Development/ Revitalization Committee The New Post Development and Revitalization Committee met and discussed several post issues including: Post 258 fixed their tax problem; Post 506 wants to turn in their charter; Post 98 and 415 are having some problems; Avon will be moving into a new post building; Post 39 has reopened.

Post Education Committee The Post Education Committee met and approved a motion to have training manuals scanned and put online. Discussion ensued regarding the encouragement for all members to take the American Legion extension course. John Hickey will be training service officers with at least eight (8) per session.

The committee will meet at the Mid-Winter Conference.

Public Relations Committee The Public Relations Committee met.

Communications Director, John Crosby, discussed the direction of public relations by the department.

The committee will meet at the Mid-Winter Conference.

the committee, concerning the history and funding of the Dick Quattrin Homeless Veterans Shelter Program. A motion was made to provide $1,000 to the program.

The motion was carried, passed and approved. A motion was made, carried and approved to transfer the funding responsibilities from the Rehabilitation Committee, to Homeless Veterans Committee to relieve the cash strapped Rehabilitation Committee.

A steering committee was appointed by the Chairman to oversee the funding and distribution of funds to guard against the misuse and/or abuse of said funds.

The committee will consist of Indiana Veterans Home Committee Chairman Dennis Pettit, Homeless Veterans Committee Member-at-Large James Hamilton and Kenny Hall.

Chairman Dennis Pettit reported that the Veterans Home Committee reported that Tom Smith is the new Indiana Veterans Home Representative. Linda Sharp addressed the committee about the IVH new wish list, and a new gym area for the residents. The Department Commander, Larry Lowry and our National Executive Committeeman, Paul Steward addressed the committee on the necessity of our support to the IVH and about the wish list.

Veterans asked for a close working relationship with The American Legion and the American Legion Employment Committee.

Chairman Harold Robinson reported that the Homeless Veteran’s Committee distributed informational packets to all district representatives.

John Hickey, Director of Indiana Veterans Rehabilitation addressed Home Committee

Religious Emphasis Committee The Religious Emphasis

General Hospital Chairman Rex Ikemire reported that the General Hospital Committee reported members of the Indianapolis Women’s Post 438, addressed the committee for the need of undergarments for women psychiatric patients.

Nursing Home Committee Chairman Anthony Sadowski reported that the

Committee met and Chaplain Norris Keirn discussed chaplain manuals, which are available at Emblem Sales. Discussion ensued on ordination requirements and the potential role of chaplains in leading funerals. There being no further business to come before the commission, the meeting was adjourned in proper fashion.

Nursing Home Committee held discussions on the money allotted and if more funds could be requested for this program. The Chairman requested a moment of silence for the 9th District representative, Raymond Kerner who passed away on Sept. 28, 2015.

Veterans Assistance Committee John Hickey, Department Service Officer, introduced Natalie Gries, VA Change Management Agent.

Ms. Gries discussed “National Work Que” meant to even out work load of electronic claims throughout all regional offices to provide faster service to Veterans. Limited roll out in October 2015 is to include Indy Regional Office. The 5th District Chairman Phil Turner discussed VA North, Indiana Healthcare “Town Hall Meeting” and area “Stand Downs” to address the issues.

Department of Indiana hosts 5k Walk/Run fundraiser for veterans Story & Photos by john crosby

INDIANAPOLIS – The American Legion, Department of Indiana hosted a free “5K Walk/Run for Veterans” at historic Fort Benjamin Harrison in Indianapolis, Sunday, Oct. 11.

Hundreds participated including active service members, veterans, high school students and military families from communities across the state to help raise veterans support awareness.

All proceeds and donations received were given to Operation Comfort Warriors, an American Legion program dedicated to meeting the needs of wounded, injured or ill military personnel by providing them with comfort items not usually supplied by the government.

“The purpose of this Walk is to raise public awareness about the crucial issues facing America’s veterans and their families,” said Lowry. “An estimated 22 veterans a day commit suicide.

Traumatic brain injuries have become a signature wound of the Global War on Terrorism and up to 20 percent of the men and women who served in Iraq or Afghanistan are believed to experience Post Traumatic Stress...

Veterans still have difficulty receiving health care in a timely manner and many have been waiting years to have their disability claims resolved. We owe it to those who served our country to never forget their

sacrifice and devotion. We are running for those who marched for us.”

City of Lawrence Mayor Dean Jessup, National American Legion Commander Dale Barnett, Department of Indiana Commander Larry Lowry, National American Legion Auxiliary President Sharon Conatser, Department of Indiana Auxiliary President Ruth Rairdon, and Past National Commander Jim Koutz also showed their support and held a pre-run ceremony.

"We’re going to get the message of The American Legion out to the communities." Barnett said.

Barnett walks in cities across the nation during his term as national commander to raise awareness for veterans’ advocacy mission of The American Legion.

"I strongly believe that we should walk not for ourselves but for those who have marched before us. In war or peace, America’s veterans have repeatedly sacrificed for our freedom. These awareness walks are the least that we can do for them.”

Koutz presented $30,913 in donations for Operation Comfort Warriors on behalf of American Legion posts across Indiana.

“We want to take care of our injured, our wounded and our sick warriors recovering in military care installations across the nation and around the world,” said Koutz. “That’s what The American Legion is all about, and that’s what our program Operation Comfort Warriors was created for.”

With the success from local turn out and donations raised for OCW, The American Legion, Department of Indiana plans to make the 5k Walk/Run for our Veterans an annual event.

The American Legion, Department of Indiana thanks the sponsors and supporters of this event; The City of Lawrence: Mayor Dean Jessup and staff; Department of Public Works; Lawrence Police Department; Lawrence Fire Department and EMS; Lawton Loop Home Owners Association; Harrison Park Properties, LLC; and Harrison Place Apartments.

Hundreds of active service members, veterans, high school students Thank you for making this and military families from communities across Indiana participate in The American Legion hosted 5k Walk/Run for our Veterans in event possible.

Lawrence, Ind., Sunday, Oct. 11, 2015.

This patriotic puppy is sporting yellow for our troops at the “Walk for our Veterans” hosted by the Department of Indiana. More than $30,000 was given to Operation Comfort Warriors at the event, donated by Legion posts from across the state.

The American Legion National Cmdr. Dale Barnett speaks about his campaign “Walk for our Veterans” during the opening ceremony of the 5k Walk/Run for our Veterans in Lawrence, Ind., Sunday, Oct 11, 2015.

Barnett is walking in cities and states across the nation during his term.

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The American Legion Past National Commander Jim Koutz presents 30,913 in donations to be donated to Operation Comfort Warriors at the 5k Walk/Run for our Veterans in Lawrence, Ind., Sunday, Oct. 11, 2015. The program provides comfort items for wounded or ill troops.

HOOSIER LEGIONNAIRE 4th Quarter 2015

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Fort Wayne, Komets honor Post 9/11 Hoosier Legionnaire Donations, awareness raised for Operation Comfort Warriors

Courtesy Photo

Photo by John Crosby, Department Communications Director

Former Indiana Army National Guard Spc. Jason Kokotkiewicz (right) with fellow troops at a combat outpost in Fallujah, Iraq 2006. Kotkiewicz nearly lost his life when a rocket propelled grenade struck his helmet while defending the outpost from an insurgent attack.

Jason Kokotkiewicz was honored on the ice at the Fort Wayne Komets military appreciation night before the hockey game at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, Friday, Nov. 6, 2015. Kokotkiewicz, Legion member of Greenfield Post 119, spent years recovering from wounds received fighting in Fallujah, Iraq.

Currently, he owns a security business in Indianapolis and provides employment for other veterans.

Story by

during a pregame ceremony.

Kokotkiewicz’ story is a remarkable one of bravery and survival. On Jan. 24, 2007, Jason was launched into a three-hour rooftop firefight with enemy forces in Fallujah, Iraq. As his unit was taking fire from three different directions, Jason positioned his Soldiers and focused their returning fire. Hours into the fight, Kokotkiewicz was struck in the head by an enemy rocket propelled grenade. The RPG struck his Kevlar helmet, glanced off and lodged in a nearby guard tower without exploding. The impact nearly took his life shattering a large portion of his skull and leaving him in a coma for nearly three months.

He was left with a traumatic brain injury that required a long and intense recovery. He spent the next 18 months relearning how to walk, talk, speak, read and write, a testament to his tenacious warrior spirit. He was awarded the Purple Heart

john crosby FORT WAYNE, Ind., – The Fort Wayne Komets hockey team held a military appreciation night at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, Friday, Nov. 6, honoring veterans

and collecting donations for Operation Comfort Warriors.

The American Legion, Department of Indiana in conjunction with Fifth Third Bank and the Komets selected Indiana Army National Guard, Operation Iraqi Freedom Veteran Jason Kokotkiewicz to be recognized on the ice

Photo by John Crosby, Department Communications Director

Former Indiana Army National Guard Spc. Jason Kokotkiewicz recognizes a comrade on the “Remember Our Fallen” wall at the Fort Wayne Komets, Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, Friday, Nov. 6, 2015 The wall consists of pictures and names of Indiana’s service members fallen since 9/11.

as well as the Bronze Star.

Today, Jason, an American Legion member of Post 119 in Greenfield, Ind., has committed himself to giving back to the veterans who have sacrificed as he has to protect our freedoms. He and another Purple Heart recipient started the security company, PH3, or Purple Heart 3, which specifically seeks veterans to serve in security roles. This is his way to give back to the brave soldiers who fought alongside him.

“If I can give them a house, a home, put them back in a uniform that they can be proud of and a job that they are well suited for, in fact they are way over qualified to do, it just seems right to me,” Kokotkiewicz said.

Donations were given to Operation Comfort Warriors, The American Legion program that provides comfort items to wounded, injured or ill service members recovering in hospitals and warrior transition

units around the world.

One-hundred percent of donations given to OCW go directly to service members.

The program provides items such as loose-fitting sweat suits to cover their healing wounds without adding pressure to burns, iPods to help distract from tinnitus, or fitness equipment to rebuild strength in their muscles.

In the spirit of Veterans Day, Fifth Third Bank locations in greater Indiana are supporting OCW by matching donations up to $10,000 from Nov. 2-14.

As part of its annual "Honoring Our Veterans" campaign, the 118 participating Fifth Third Bank locations across the region will be selling Honoring Our Veterans stars for a minimum donation of $1 a piece to raise funds for OCW. The stars will be displayed throughout the financial centers.

Nearly $2,000 was raised for OCW during the game.

National and Department Dues Increases coming 2016 The American Legion National Executive Committee approved a $5 dues increase during the organization’s 97th national convention in Baltimore in early September. This brings the National organization’s membership dues from $13.50 to $18.50.

This represents the first National Headquarters percapita dues increase in nearly a decade, during which time the U.S. cost of living has increased 13 percent.

In addition, the Department of Indiana approved a $3 dues increase during the

2015 Department Annual Convention. This brings the Department’s membership dues from $13.50 to $16.50.

The decision to include the Department increase at the same time as the National dues increase was made based on experience in that the frequency of per capita increases results in a greater impact on membership than the amount of the increase.

Membership historically suffers greater after back-toback dues increases, rather than a larger dues increase based on the Department and the National organization

raising dues in conjunction with each other in a single year.

Legion posts increasing membership dues as a result of the department and National Headquarters dues increases must fill out and return the Post Data Report form to the Department of Indiana headquarters. This updated information will appear on future membership renewal notices.

These forms must be submitted to the Department no later than close of business on Monday, Nov. 30, 2015.

Dues Increase Resolutions Title: 2015-2016 Per Capita Increase Origin: Department of Indiana Finance Committee Date: July 9, 2015

WHEREAS, The current per capita of The American Legion, Department of Indiana is and has been since 2006 $13.50; and WHEREAS, Per capita is the single largest source of income for the Department of Indiana, accounting for nearly 60 percent of the Department’s annual operating revenue; and WHEREAS, Membership has declined by approximately 25,000 members since 2006, resulting in current membership revenue $337,500 lower than would have been generated had there been no loss of membership; and WHEREAS, Revenue programs that depend on member contributions also are adversely affected by declining membership; and WHEREAS, Despite regular budget review and analysis procedures to monitor and reduce expenses wherever possible, operating expenses for the third consecutive year have exceeded income and it is no longer possible to reduce expenses without reducing programs and services; and WHEREAS, The National Organization has proposed a $5.00 increase in the national per capita effective January 1, 2015; and WHEREAS, Experience shows that the frequency of per capita increases has a greater impact on membership than the amount of the increase; and WHEREAS, The Department of Indiana wishes to avoid the effect of consecutive per capita increases by establishing an increase to coincide with the National Organization’s recommended increase; now therefore be it RESOLVED, by The American Legion, Department of Indiana in annual convention convened July 10, 2015 in Indianapolis, IN that the Department per capita for membership year 2015-2016 be $16.50 effective January 1, 2016, and continue at that rate for subsequent membership years until revised in accordance with the Constitution of The American Legion, Department of Indiana.

2016 Membership can still be paid for at the 2015 rates until close of business on Friday, Jan. 15, 2016.

Cards must physically reach the department membership office on this date to be processed before deadline. Take advantage of this window to build membership for 2016.

Paid Up for Life membership is currently unaffected.

PUFL memberships can still be purchased at current rates. National plans to reevaluate PUFL membership dues in early 2016.

Post leadership are

encouraged to spread this information by all means available, including Post websites, social media, flyers, and by word of mouth at Post and District meetings. Post leaders that have questions regarding deadlines and procedures regarding the dues increases are encouraged to contact the Department at 317-6301300.

Remember: “Duty, Honor, Country. No sacrifice too great.”

Resolution No. 3: Increase in National Per Capita Dues of The American Legion Origin: Resolution No. 4 (NEC) May 2015 Submitted by: Convention Committee on Finance

WHEREAS, The National per capita dues remained constant at $13.50 since January 10, 2007, although our nation has experienced a cumulative inflation rate of 13% during that time, and inflation continues to erode the value of the dollar; and WHEREAS, Membership has declined 16.01% resulting in $5,679,896 less dues revenue; and WHEREAS, The national organization, by practicing prudent fiscal management, including increasing income from fundraising, increasing income from royalties and, improving the efficiency of DMS, has been able to absorb rising costs through 2015, but will no longer be able to do so; and WHEREAS, The national organization has a current unencumbered cash reserve of $13.3 million which is estimated to provide for operations for two years with no ability to provide for contingencies; and WHEREAS, It is the opinion of the National Executive Committee of The American Legion that a per capita dues increase is necessary in 2016 in order to ensure solvency for the national organization, and, in the absence of a per capita dues increase, the national organization will be forced to curtail drastically some of its traditional and long-standing programs; and WHEREAS, The National Executive Committee of The American Legion, upon recommendation of the National Finance Commission, did at its regular meeting held in Indianapolis, Indiana on May 6-7, 2015, express its opinion that without a dues increase for the year 2016 the National Organization will be forced to curtail its traditional and long-standing programs, and did adopt a resolution recommending an increase in the national per capita dues for the year 2016; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By The American Legion in National Convention assembled in Baltimore, Maryland, September 1, 2, 3, 2015, That the national per capita dues for the calendar year 2016 be fixed in the amount of $18.50, provided that any 2016 dues paid at the old rate of $13.50 shall be accepted if remitted by the Departments to the National Organization by close of business January 20, 2016, which is the mid-winter 80% target date; and, be it finally RESOLVED, That rates established for purchase of a paid-up-for-life membership shall remain at the current rate until June 1, 2016, at which time the Finance Commission shall adjust the rate to reflect prudent actuarial assumptions.

HOOSIER LEGIONNAIRE 4th Quarter 2015

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Fall 2015 quarter in photos The 2015 Fall Quarter has been action packed, from the 97th Annual Convention in Baltimore, to National Cmdr. Dale Barnett’s tour of Indiana.

Between POW/MIA Day, Veteran’s Day, Fall Conference and all of the great things our Legion family does on a daily basis, it’s truly been a quarter to remember. A few shots capturing just a few of the events of

this Fall 2015 Quarter.

Have safe and Happy Holidays this winter.

While spending time with our families here at home, please remember all of our veterans out there wearing the cloth of our nation in foreign and hostile territories, and all of the veterans out there that could use a helping hand this holiday season.

Here’s to another great quarter!

The American Legion, Department of Indiana Cmdr. Larry Lowry presents a donation of nearly $25,000 to Kate Bonner, representative for Children’s Miracle Foundation at Fall Convention General Assembly Saturday, Oct. 3, 2015 in Indianapolis.

Congratulations to Northern Vice Cmdr. Howard “Pete” Brannon and 9th District Cmdr. Ron Pridemore for being inducted into ANAVICUS (Army, Navy and Air Force Veterans in Canada United States) at the 97th Annual Convention in Baltimore, Aug. 30, 2015.

From left: 2nd District Cmdr. Ron Hoaks, First Lady Tracy, Past 2nd District Cmdr. Jack Platt, and First Lady Carmen Weiderhaft stand on the deck of the Spirit for Department Cmdr. Larry Lowry’s dinner cruise at the 97th Annual Convention in Baltimore, Aug. 30, 2015.

Members of Legion Post 351, Elberfeld, Ind., fire a civil war era canon packed with gun powder, newspaper and topped off with a ripe Georgia peach in honor of National Cmdr.

Dale Barnett touring the post and state of Indiana Nov. 3, 2015.

Thomas Klempay, 3rd District Cmdr., puts to raise donations to Nat. Cmdr.

Dale Barnett’s project, the National Emergency Fund at Kokomo, Ind., Post 6, Nov. 2, 2015.

National Cmdr. Dale Barnett pauses to take a selfie Post 5 in Mount Vernon, Ind., Nov. 3, 2015.

National Cmdr. Dale Barnett takes a photo with husband Amos Vickers, member of Kightstown, Ind., Post 152, and wife Christylee Vickers, Cmdr. of Post 438, Indianapolis, during Barnett’s visit to Speedway Post 500, Nov. 1, 2015.

The Department of Indiana Auxiliary marches in the 97th Annual Convention Parade in Baltimore, Aug. 31, 2015.

The department marched downtown represented by elements of the Inidana Auxiliary, The Indiana Detachment Dept. Cmdr. Larry Lowry sits in the ambassador’s chair Dept. Cmdr. Larry Lowry presents Bloomfield Post 196 of the Sons of the American Legion, and The American at the mock embassy while touring Muscatatuck Urban Color Guard with Department Color Guard of the Year for Training Center, Nov. 3, 2015.

2015-2016 at Fall Conference, Indianapolis, Oct. 3, 2015.

Legion Riders.

Mr. & Mrs. Clause AKA Cmdr. Larry Lowry and wife Claudia enjoy the commander’s ball at Fall Conference, Oct. 3, 2015.

Courtesy Photo

Frankie Billingsey, member Ft. Wayne, Ind., Post #148, receives the Naitonal Local Veterans Employment Representative of the Year award from Past National Commander 2014-2015 Mike Helm, with Department of Indiana, Americanism Commission Chairman, Allen Connelly, at the 97th Annual Convention in Baltimore, Thursday, Sept. 3, 2015.

Courtesy Photo

Department Assistant Adjutant Will Henry spends Saturday morning, Sept. 26, 2015, with a great group of inquisitive kids headed by Congresswoman Susan W. Brooks.

Congratulations to our Mt. Vernon, Ind., Post #5 Treasure Hunt $394,261 raffle winner, Jeff Watson of Posey County, a Son’s of the American Legion member out of New Harmony, Ind., Post #370.

Department of Indiana donates to the National Emergency Fund at the 97th Annual Convention in Baltimore, Sept. 2, 2015

Hoosier Legionnaires donated nearly $35,000 at Fall Conference to several charitable Legion funds including Operation Comfort Warriors, Indiana Veterans Home, and the Legacy Scholarship at Fall Conference, Indianapolis, Oct. 3, 2015.

Dept. Adjutant Hugh Dagley speaks to Indiana Gov. Mike Pence at the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs Community Outreach Event at the 38th Infantry Division, the Cyclone Division armory in Indianapolis Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2015.

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HOOSIER LEGIONNAIRE 4th Quarter 2015

Photos by john crosby Dept. Communications Director

Twitter @IndyLegion