2013 April/May The Hoosier Legionnaire

The Hoosier Legionnaire For God and Country

www.hoosierlegionnaire.org

April/May 2013

Call of the Convention, p. 5 H Commission Reports, p. 7 H 100% Posts, p. 14 H U.S. Army Equipment, p. 21

Amethyst Eagle Highlights General Session

Spring Conference Features National Officer, Candidate, and Community Activity Leaders

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ndianapolis businessman Bob McGee was recognized during the opening moments of the 2013 Joint Spring Conference April 5 when he was called to the stage to accept a framed Certificate of Appreciation for his gift of an Amethyst eagle on a mountain crag formed of the precious gemstone citrine. The eagle was on display throughout the conference courtesy of National Adjutant Daniel S. Wheeler.

McGee, who commissioned the sculpture and presented it to the National Headquarters of The American Legion during the 2012 National Convention in Indianapolis, was more stunned by the size of the audience than the presentation itself. Clearly impressed by the turnout at the conference and whipping out his iPhone, he snapped a handful of shots recording the size of the crowd assembled to “show this to my wife. I thought I’d be at a board meeting or something. This is terrific!”

His photos would reveal nearly 600 Legion, Auxiliary and SAL members in attendance at the general session, which Department Commander Richard A. Jewell gaveled to order shortly after 8:00 a.m. Despite the early hour and the last-minute shuffling of seats and platforms, the session turned to business.

Guest Speakers National Vice Commander David Hall, a West Virginia Le-

Amethyst Eagle This sculpture, donated by Bob McGee in 2012, resides now at National Headquarters of The American Legion.

gionnaire, congratulated the audience for their ‘overwhelming’ Hoosier Hospitality. He went on to remind the audience of a number of positions that The American Legion currently has on a few national issues, such as immigration and gun control.

He further went on, calling for each person “to remind their elected officials that these soldiers returning from combat, these young men and these

young women in our neighborhoods returning back to civilian life, deserve the very best care that this nation has to offer.”

NVC Hall was followed in short order by the leading candidate for National Commander, Dan Dellinger from the Department of Virginia. Dellinger spoke ad lib about his plans for leading the organization in 2013-2014. His focus, he said, will be on building the member-

ship back to its historic levels, but also warned that it won’t happen overnight and probably won’t happen until long after he is out of office.

He announced that his membership goal will be a simple formula: one more than last year for every post in the country, but also announced that he will be working with department membership chairmen and commander’s to develop a five-year plan for recruitment of younger veterans and in retention of current members. “Where we’re at right now, we have 14.56 percent of the eligible veterans. If we get to 15 percent of the eligible veterans in our ranks, we will be at an all-time high.”

Later in the day, the candidate was the featured guests at a reception styled a ‘meet and greet,’ so Hoosier Legionnaires could get to know him. Hundreds of conferees took advantage of the opportunity.

War Memorial Foundation The tightly packed general session also included a video presentation by James Graham, on behalf of the Indiana World War Memorial Foundation. Graham’s presentation was in support of a memorial brick program designed to raise money for the preservation of the fiveblock long Indiana War Memorial plaza in general and the War Memorial itself in downtown Indianapolis.

The Indiana Attorney Gen-

eral’s office, represented by Sara Fleischhacker, presented information concerning the AG’s program to protect veterans from phone and online scams, saying veterans recently have become a common target of scammers.

Julia Jent, a judge in the Veterans Treatment Court in northwest Indiana, briefed the audience on the special needs of veterans who, too often she says, appear in criminal court for behavior which masks deep-seated difficulties related to their wartime experiences.

Using mentors and a compassionate approach to sentencing, Jent told the audience, veteransoffenders who might otherwise have languished untreated in prisons are being treated for their disorders and restored as productive citizens.

Donations Michael Brady, Past 8th District Commander, presented a handicap accessible van to the Indiana Veterans’ Home on the platform, handing the keys to the specially equipped vehicle to Denny Pettit from IVH. Brady, who originally purchased the vehicle for his brother, presented the van to the Department of Indiana when his brother no longer needed it. The department completed the cumbersome but necessary paperwork needed to transfer the van to the Continued on page 6

Officer Reports

Donations To IVH Exceeded Expectations!

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pring conference is now history—what a weekend!

The first thing I want to do is take a minute to thank everyone who attended the spring conference general session for sticking with us through what turned out to be a long session.

Most of you hung in there and I really do appreciate it. You also dealt like champs with the confusion of a run over session and how it affected meeting times, adjusting and adapting at its finest!

Every time I say that “I couldn’t be prouder to be your Commander,” you folks step up and do something even more special than last time. The donations to our project at the Indiana Veterans’ Home were beyond my wildest expecta-

Richard A. Jewell DEPARTMENT COMMANDER

COMMANDER’S MESSAGE tions. I was hoping for something in the neighborhood of seven or eight thousand and the posts, districts, and individual Legionnaires donated a whopping $19,000. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your generous donations. This will make a tremendous difference in the lives of the families of the IVH residents.

I write this having just come

from the statehouse. I haven’t kept track, but we have testified on probably 15 different occasions on veteran’s legislation here in Indiana this year. We’ve had a tremendous year, having over 30 pieces of legislation offered that are directly related to the lives of Indiana’s veterans.

I’ll give you a brief rundown of where we are on them as of today.

Senate Bill 115, a bill to provide for a ‘Combat to College’ program at each university in Indiana, was our centerpiece.

We sought it based on a resolution from Post 360. It has been passed, signed by the governor, and is now law.

Senate Bill 177, a bill to provide for in-state tuition for any newly discharged veteran who

wants to come to Indiana, has passed both houses, though in different forms. A conference committee has resolved the differences and this bill will pass.

Senate Bill 290, a proposal to pave the way for a military medic to receive certification as an Indiana EMT, has been passed, has been signed, and is law. Why wouldn’t you want a combat experienced medic rolling up to your car accident?

I know I surely would, and now it will be easier for them to get to work in Indiana.

Senate Bill 564, a bill to provide for a 3 percent goal of business of the state of Indiana going to veteran-owned businesses.

We all know how disgraceful the unemployment rate of our younger veterans is and we hope

that this will help. Veterans tend to hire veterans!

There were others we’ve followed and worked on, and I’ll give you a complete report when the legislative session is done. I’ve truly had a great time representing The American Legion in the statehouse. We’ve established a wonderful working relationship with quite a few senators and representatives that will help us in the future when the time comes to take up other matters of concern to Indiana’s veterans.

One final word on membership. Quoting Yogi Berra, “It ain’t over till it’s over!” I’ve been on the road helping the 8th District knock on doors to get renewals.

Continued on page 16

Resolution Activity Hits High Mark At Conference

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he just-concluded Joint Spring Conference was a high water mark in an area of real importance to the organization—Resolutions.

The committees, commissions and the Department Executive Committee considered an even dozen of them, more than these bodies have considered at one time in many years.

The progress of The American Legion over the years has been the result of resolution activity just like that seen during the Conference. Your ideas, the things you would like to see done, the problems for which you have found the solution, all go into the resolutions that form the basis of our organization’s program and activities. Ours is

Hugh Dagley Department Adjutant

Adjutant’s Desk a bottom up organization.

Some of our most treasured programs – American Legion Baseball, Boys State, the Oratorical Contest and the Flag Education Program, to name just a few—all got their start when Legionnaires put their heads together to move this organization.

All of us involved in admin-

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istering your ideas, resolutions and programs are pleased to see the increased activity that a steady stream of resolutions represents. Will all of them get approved? Probably not. Will all of them get us thinking? You bet they will. I encourage you to keep them coming.

Too Soon To Quit A reminder on membership is in order. Please do not return your unused or un-renewed pre-printed membership cards to the Department until our membership year is over. For convention delegate and other purposes, the membership year ends 30 days prior to the start of the Department Convention, not a day sooner. You turn your cards in at Close of Books. If they

arrive at department headquarters before that day, we will send them back to you.

The membership drive for 2013 is far from over, and already we are beginning to receive unused cards from posts that have ‘thrown in the towel.’

The fight is not over. Keep your cards, and keep trying to renew your members and recruit your fellow veterans.

Headquarters Staff Changes The Department Executive Committee concurred without dissent in Department Commander Jewell’s appointment of Buzz Smith to be Assistant Department Adjutant. Smith was promoted to that staff officer position in January, pending approval by the DEC.

In other headquarters action, the full time position of Meeting Planner has been eliminated, along with two part-time positions, one in the Finance Office and one in the contract archivist area. Becky Fancher will assume the responsibilities for meeting planning and travel arrangements.

The staff realignment was necessary to reduce employee costs and apply resources to higher priority staff duties—in this case, web page development and management, Hoosier Legionnaire production, and outreach to target potential member groups. The search for that person is under way, and I Continued on page 22

Officer Reports

Gold Star Families Know The Cost Of Freedom

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he other night I was attending a meeting of veterans and supportive citizens, when I was introduced to a ‘Gold Star’ couple that lost their son in Afghanistan. After the meeting, I stood close to the couple to let the person with whom they were engaged in a conversation finish so I could greet and address them. I wanted to express my honor to be in their presence and my gratitude for their sacrifice to our country.

We entered into a wonderful and long conversation about their son, the response of those with whom he served, and many references to both their faith and the faith of their son.

Learning that the mother was a member of the American Gold Star Mothers, I told them about the privilege I had to address the Gold Star Mothers as

Norris Keirn Department Chaplain

Chaplain’s Corner their keynote speaker when I was National Chaplain. I related how I had worked and worked on my presentation, but nothing would come together. I told them that on the evening of the presentation with great prayer, I extemporaneously began my address, “I am here tonight, because your son or daughter is not.” As I was sharing this story, the mother placed her hands on my arms interrupting me saying, “How appropriate… that is

the best thing you could have said.”

I pastored a church where one of my aging parishioners who was no longer able to attend services was a double Gold Star Mother from World War II. I used to visit her on a monthly basis and take communion so she could feel she was a part of the church. We had many discussions about the loss of her sons. I always felt blessed to be in her presence as one who had given so much to preserve the freedom of our country.

Certainly the Gold Star family knows the cost of freedom and the meaning of sacrifice.

As our veteran population shrinks, so does the average American exposure to veterans.

Today some reports rate the U.S. with a 6% veteran population.

Vanishing from our presence

are our WWII veterans and Korean War veterans. Our largest veteran population from the Viet Nam era is beginning to fade at an increasing rate.

Most of our military are coming from veteran families. So many people today do not have anyone in their family linage that was, or is, a veteran. It is even more rare that an individual will encounter a member of a Gold Star family.

My life has been richly blessed and greatly enhanced by these people that I have met along my life’s journey. I lost buddies in battle, but I have also had the privilege to know children, spouses, parents and relatives who have lost loved ones in America’s battles. I have been greatly encouraged by their sacrifice, but more importantly by their great faith, the hope that

exudes from their presence, and the stories that they share.

In spring, we celebrate major religious festivals that commemorate deliverance from death and hope for eternal life with God. Marked in these festivals are examples of great sacrifice and enduring faith.

I find very tangible examples whenever I encounter Gold Star families. How our citizens need to be reminded of the meaning of our star flags. I would encourage all of us to reach out to these families to encourage them, thank them, and ask them to participate in and speak at our events. Our community and post events will be greatly embellished by their presence.

Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord.

Psalm 31:24 NRSV HL★

our National Commander, Jim Koutz.

I asked our alternate NEC to write a few words about our trip to DC: On Feb. 23, a group of Indiana Legion Members arrived in Washington DC for 2013 Washington Conference to visit with members of the House and Senate. Among the other activities for Legionnaires were committee meetings and the Commander’s Call. One of the guest speakers at the Commander’s Call was Congresswoman Tammy Duckworth State of Illinois.

The Congresswoman was a Black Hawk helicopter pilot in Iraq until her helicopter was hit by an RPG on Nov. 12, 2004.

Tammy lost both legs and part of the use or her right arm in the explosion. As she told her story she mentioned those who came to her rescue. One of those was a young soldier on her helicopter that had been shot in the buttocks and after exiting the helicopter while bleeding from his wound grabbed his “60” and began walking toward the enemy. When asked what he was thinking, he replied, “protecting my perimeter”. “Today, no one will cross my perimeter.”

As I thought about what I would write for this article, I recalled her words and realized that all who went to the hill were

No One Will Cross My Perimeter

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y wife, Sharon and I recently returned from my Army reunion in Orlando Florida where temperatures were in the high 80’s.

(I know... it was snowing here on opening day of baseball season.)

The temperature was great and so was the reunion. This was a special time because it was for those veterans and their families from my old company who survived the invasion of Cambodia in May and June of 1970. It was also great because we had two visitors to the reunion who were from the same company but on active duty today and just home from deployment. It gave me a chance to have a pleasant visit with a lieutenant and a sergeant

W. Darrell Hansel National Executive Committee

National Perspective who are present day heroes and talk to them about The American Legion. I gave them each an American Legion challenge coin and applications for membership. I could tell that they were touched by the comradeship of our group and hope that translated into the comradeship that we all have as members of

The American Legion. We were able to visit an excellent Viet Nam veteran’s memorial just outside of the city. Here I had an opportunity to sit at an outside bar and talk to most of the group about the benefits of our organization. To my surprise, my old Captain said that it was probably the only one that he didn’t belong to. Some had stories about being rejected by The American Legion and the VFW when they attempted to join, but most accepted an application and I am hopeful that they will join in their hometowns.

I thought that our recent trip to DC was a big success and I think that we all enjoyed the opportunity to visit a while with

Continued on page 22

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Legion Family Reports

This Was A Very Busy Past Two Months!

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reetings from the 32,000 plus Sons of The American Legion, I am expecting this number to continue to rise. At this time, the Detachment of Indiana is at 84 percent of its goal. We still have a lot of work to do in the final three months of our membership year. I have a lot of confidence in our squadrons throughout the state that they will do their best to try and meet their membership goals.

The last two months have been very busy. We started out with the Lincoln Pilgrimage and then, a couple of weeks later, there was The American Legion Washington D.C. Conference and Legion birthday dinners in March. If you have never been to Springfield, Illi-

Greg Spaulding SAL Detachment Commander

SAL News nois and you are into Civil War history, you will still enjoy the Lincoln museum and Lincoln’s Tomb.

The Washington D.C. trip was impressive. The Sons of The American Legion placed wreaths at the Tomb of the Unknowns, the World War II Memorial and the Korean War Memorial. What an honor it was for me to place a wreath

The Hoosier Legionnaire HL★ www.hoosierlegionnaire.org

The HOOSIER LEGIONNAIRE is published four times a year in February, April, August and October by the Indiana Headquarters of The American Legion, 777 North Meridian Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204. Phone (317) 630-1300.

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

USPS 010-445 ISSN 0018-4772 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to HOOSIER LEGIONNAIRE, 777 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46204.

Dick Jewell.................................................. Department Commander Hugh Dagley..........................................................................Publisher Joe Hovish................................................................................... Editor Official publication of and owned and conducted exclusively

by The American Legion, Department of Indiana.

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

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

Subscription Rates: $0.85 of each member’s dues goes for publication of the Hoosier Legionnaire.

Volume AG, Number 2 April/May 2013 Circulation 100,000 Printed by the Herald-Times, Bloomington, IN

4 | APRIL/MAY 2013 | hoosier legionnaire

at the World War II Memorial in front of the column that represented our great state of Indiana. This trip also included trips to our state’s elected officials. The American Legion had an agenda for our veterans and the benefits that they were promised by our government.

Commander Jewell and his team did an excellent job of letting Indiana’s elected officials know where they stand on veterans’ issues. They talked to all of our state’s congressmen, or at least one of their aids. Now it is up to them to support you and our veterans, for they know where the 3.4 million American Legion members stand.

In the last issue of The Hoosier Legionnaire I talked about the Oratorical Contest.

The state contest was held on March 10th at department headquarters in Indianapolis.

Once again there was a great turn out to hear our four contestants. The contestants were Annalee Witte of Wilkinson, sponsored by Post 119; Jana Minich of Lafayette, sponsored

by Post 38; Robert VanDyke of Fort Wayne, sponsored by Post 296; and Jackson Embry of Huntingburg, sponsored

by Post 147. We had standing room only to listen to our four contestants. The four speeches that were delivered by our contestants were excellent. Jana Minich was selected as the winner for the state of Indiana.

We wish her the best in the national competition on April 20th in Indianapolis.

Memorial Day will be here soon. I want to take this time, on behalf of the Sons of The American Legion, to thank all of our veterans. Because of the sacrifices that you have made, we as a nation, have our freedoms. We can never thank you enough. HL★

My Homecoming Is Soon Here

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his year’s Lincoln Pilgrimage and the trip to Washington D.C. are now part of the 2012-2013 history.

Both were great trips although the D.C. trip was not as pleasant as it could have been due to some problems with an abscessed tooth while I was there. Problem has now been fixed, so on with the year. The Legion’s birthday month is also now over. I enjoyed many great dinners and visited the different posts. We have again been making visitations to the Districts; we have four to go.

The Auxiliary is having a raffle of gift cards at joint Spring Conference. By the time you read this column, the raffle will have been finished. Maybe

Nancy Gunning Auxiliary President

Auxiliary News some of you will have won a gift card and are now enjoying some free gas, free meals, or free shopping. I certainly hope so!

May will bring many Memorial Services and it is Poppy Month for the Auxiliary. Don’t forget to see an Auxiliary member and to give a donation for your Poppy. All of the money

donated for poppies is used for our veterans or their families.

We are all thinking about our Homecoming. Mine will be on June 16 at Garfield Post 88. I hope many of you will attend. I am sure I will see many of you at the homecomings of Sons of The American Legion Detachment Commander Greg Spaulding and The American Legion National Commander Jimmy Koutz as well.

The Auxiliary Department has passed our membership goal of 85 percent which was not due until May 10. We are very happy about that. We hope to make our 100 percent before the due date of June 30 as well.

Continued on page 22

DEPARTMENT NEWS 95th ANNUAL INDIANA AMERICAN LEGION DEPARTMENT CONVENTION REGISTRATION FORM JULY 11-14, 2013

CONVENTION REGISTRATION FORM Please print NAME:___________________________________________________________________________ ADDRESS:_______________________________________________________________________ CITY:____________________________ STATE:____________ ZIPCODE: ___________________ PHONE: ___________________________ POST:_____________ DISTRICT: _________________ YOUR MEMBERSHIP NUMBER:_____________________________________________________ Every delegate/alternate/guest attending the Department Convention must register. This registration form may be used for individual registration or for couples registering together. The registration fee for each individual listed on this form must be included. If the post is sending the money in for their delegates/alternates/guests, attach a complete list with all of the above information.

DELEGATE ($15.00) includes Indiana party ALTERNATE ($15.00) includes Indiana party GUEST(S) ($15.00) includes Indiana party TOTAL

$__________ $__________ $__________ $__________

CONVENTION REGISTRATION INSTRUCTIONS 1. All delegates/alternates/guests (including spouses) MUST register for the convention- $15.00 per person. It is possible to register at convention, but recommend registering prior to.

2. All Past Department Commanders are automatic delegates to the convention, but must pay the delegate fee.

3. Convention credentials may be picked up at the Department Convention Registration area beginning at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 11th.

4. Entrance to convention sessions, activities and events (even “free” events) will require possession of convention credentials.

5. Please feel free to duplicate this form for individuals who did not receive one.

6. Return form to the Department Headquarters, 777 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46204 attn: Becky Fancher

CALL OF THE CONVENTION

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epartment Adjutant Hubert R. Dagley, II has issued the following call for the 95th Annual Department Convention: In compliance with the Constitution of The American Legion, Department of Indiana, and the action of the Department Executive Committee, the 95th Annual Convention of The American Legion, Department of Indiana, will be held in Indianapolis, Indiana July 12 and 13, 2013.

PURPOSE The Convention is called for the purpose of: 1. Electing Department Officers for the ensuing year.

2. Amending the Department Constitution & By-Laws, if necessary.

3. Transacting of such other business as may be brought before the Convention.

NOTE: District Commanders for 2013-14 and Delegates to the 2013 National Convention must be elected by the duly accredited State Convention Delegates at least 15 days prior to the State Convention.

THIS DATE IS JUNE 27, 2013.

REPRESENTATION Representation at the Department Convention shall be by Post.

Each Post shall be entitled to elect: • one (1) delegate and one (1) alternate for the first 15 members; • two (2) delegates and two (2) alternates for 51 members; • three (3) delegates and three (3) alternates for 151 members; • four (4) delegates and four (4) alternates for 251 members; and • one (1) delegate and one (1) alternate for each additional 100 members whose Department and National dues have been paid as shown on the books of the Department Adjutant by 2:00 p.m. June 9, 2013.

A delegate is a member of a Post who has been elected by the Post and certified by the Department Adjutant 15 days prior to the convening of the convention.

Each Post’s maximum number of votes shall be equal to the number of delegates to which it is entitled. However, the Post may cast only the number of votes equal to the number of delegates who are properly certified to the Department Adjutant. Such certification must be received in Department Headquarters by 4:30 p.m. June 12, 2013. A Post to be recognized as a Post shall have 15 members whose dues have been paid to Department Headquarters.

RULES AND PERMANENT ORGANIZATION The 95th annual Department Convention will be conducted in accordance with the rules and permanent organization approved by the Department Executive Committee in regular session assembled April 7, 2013 and as may be amended by vote of the delegates at the convention.

Hubert R. Dagley, II Department Adjutant

Richard A. Jewell Department Commander

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DEPARTMENT NEWS

Spring Conference Continued from page 1 Indiana Veterans’ Home.

In addition to the steady stream of speakers and guests, a long line of Legion, Auxiliary and SAL members climbed the stage to make special presentations to the commander in support of his annual project. When the gavel came down, nearly $20,000 had been donated to Commander Jewell’s project to renovate four of the guest rooms for families of residents at the Indiana Veterans’ Home. The list of donors and the amounts appears on the right.

Million Dollar Club Seven new members were added to the Veterans Service Officers’ Million Dollar Club, which recognizes county service officers whose efforts result in a total of $1 million in new federal benefits paid to a veteran in their county. These new Million Dollar VSOs, their counties, and the totals achieved, are: • Claude McMillan • Marshall Smith • Michael P. Clouse • Marion Wallace • Roy Leverich • Michael Stump • Thomas Hildebrand

Wells County Wayne County Noble County Harrison County Jay County Blackford County White County

$1.4 million $1.2 million $1.1 million $1.0 million $1.1 million $1.1 million $1.0 million

Other highlights of the session were a presentation by frequent visitor Rick Lofgren, Executive Director of the Children’s Organ Transplant Association; a reminder to Legionnaires to enroll in the LIT and its sponsored insurance program, by K. Michael Ayers; a membership report by Chairman Marty Dzieglowicz; introductions

by Auxiliary President Nancy Gunning and SAL Commander Greg Spaulding; and the presentation of the 2012 Americanism and Government Scholarships. The recipients included: • The 10th grade girl winner, Kaitlyn Thompson from Mitchell High School in Mitchell, sponsored by Post 250 in the 9th District.

• The 11th grade girl winner, Laura Fultz from North Vermillion High School, sponsored by Post 263 in the 6th District.

• The 12th grade girl winner, Taylor Downs from North Vermillion High School, sponsored by Post 263 in the 6th District.

• The 10th grade boy winner, Alec Fowler from Griffith High School, sponsored by Post 66 in the 1st District.

• The 11th grade boy winner, Jordan West, from North Vermillion High School, sponsored by Post 263 in the 6th District.

• The 12th grade boy winner, Jonathan Flanary from North Vermillion High School, sponsored by Post 263 in the 6th District.

In other conference activities, the 8th District-sponsored bean bag tournament raised more than $300 for Commander Jewell’s project during the Friday night reception; the committees and commissions considered 12 resolutions during the weekend, and forwarded them to the Department Executive Committee for action and the membership turn-in netted 700 renewals and new members for the current membership year. The DEC instructed the Department Adjutant to prepare a new travel policy for the department, and a new policy to govern the acceptance of post assets when a post closes. HL★ 6 | APRIL/MAY 2013 | hoosier legionnaire

Donations To Commander Jewell’s Project Collected At The Spring Conference General Assembly Renovation For Four Guest Rooms At The Indiana Veterans’ Home Donor Account Amount American Legion Post 257 American Legion Post 232 American Legion 1st District American Legion Post 279 American Legion Post 72 American Legion 2nd District American Legion Post 200 Boonville American Legion American Legion Post 94 American Legion Post 22 American Legion Post 499 American Legion Post 333 American Legion Post 147 American Legion 10th District American Legion Post 5 American Legion Post 97 Vice Commanders, Seargant at Arms, Membership Chairman American Legion 4th District American Legion Post 52 American Legion Post 420 Richard & Paula Beck Michael Brady

Commander’s Project Commander’s Project Commander’s Project Commander’s Project Commander’s Project Commander’s Project Commander’s Project Commander’s Project Commander’s Project Commander’s Project Commander’s Project Commander’s Project Commander’s Project Commander’s Project Commander’s Project Commander’s Project

1,000.00 200.00 100.00 100.00 1,500.00 2,000.00 1,500.00 400.00 400.00 500.00 1,000.00 200.00 1,000.00 1,000.00 500.00 5,000.00

Commander’s Project Commander’s Project Commander’s Project Commander’s Project Commander’s Project Commander’s Project

600.00 1,000.00 300.00 1,000.00 100.00 500.00

American Legion Post 502 Operation Comfort Warrior American Legion Post 97 Operation Comfort Warrior American Legion Post 5 CMN - Riley American Legion Post 499 CMN - Riley American Legion Post 499 CMN - St. Judes Boonville American Legion Operation Comfort Warrior

19,900.00

6,225.00

From the editor: The next June-July edition of The Hoosier Legionnaire will be in digital format only, accessible via HL★ www.hoosierlegionnaire.org.

The August-September and October-November issues will be again sent to you in newsprint directly to your address.

2,000.00 1,000.00 500.00 1,000.00 1,000.00 725.00

COMMISSION REPORTS

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he Americanism Commission met at 4:30 p.m. Saturday, April 6th, 2013 at the Indianapolis Marriott East Hotel during the 2013 Spring Conference.

Chairman James May opened the meeting in proper form.

The commission made a motion to approve resolution 13SP-03. A motion was made by Michael Comerford and seconded by Paul Steward. The motion carried.

There were no motions made dealing with department funds.

After receiving the minutes of the various committees that comprise the Americanism Commission and with there being no further business to come before the commission, the meeting was adjourned in proper form.

HBaseball Executive CommitteeH Chairman Wells announced that the B-Team tournament will be held in Kokomo the last weekend of July.

It will interfere with football, so the tournament dates might want to be revised. The goal will be to have a state tournament with five teams.

Chairman Wells explained that the sectional teams have been decided. The eight sectional winners and runner up will go to four regionals.

Chairman Wells announced that a request was made by the Baseball Committee to ask for more time for executive committee meeting straight through to the regular meeting, a four hour time block.

Chairman Wells announced that the executive committee will meet in Room 300.

Chairman Wells explained that the executive committee will make final decision on a regional site.

The Department Adjutant discussed his entering into an agreement with the Indianapolis Indians on behalf of Legion Baseball. The committee moved and voted to support the department adjutant in this effort.

Vice Chairman John Hayes explained that he will call and set up the department commander to throw out the first pitch at the national regionals.

James May Chairman

americanism Chairman Wells will meet with Indiana High School Athletic Association, Inc. (IHSAA) regarding a waiver for the state final tournament.

There were no motions made dealing with department funds.

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

HBaseball CommitteeH District 11 was not represented.

Chairman Wells read the minutes from the executive committee meeting.

Chairman Wells announced that the state tournament will be held at St. Leon. The bid was $5,126. Each team is responsible for team release, which will not be done at the state level. If a player is found to be ineligible, sanctions will be taken against the manager/coach.

The committee discussed Form #2 and the B-Team to A-Team eligibility.

Chairman Wells, announced the regionals at Rockport, Terre Haute, Lafayette, and Plymouth.

Chairman Wells explained that background checks will take place up to June 15th. If you fail the background check, you have five days to appeal the check.

Chairman Wells advised members to see yellow sheet for pairings (Plymouth- Regional 1, Lafayette- Regional 2, Terre Haute- Regional 3, and RockportRegional 4).

Chairman Wells announced that the Maurice King AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) Team will not play at nationals.

There were no motions made dealing with Department funds.

There being no further business to Continued on page 9

he Children & Youth Commission met at 4:30 p.m. Saturday, April 6, 2013 at the Marriott East Hotel during the Spring Conference.

Nicholas Chairman Nick Nicholoff opened Nicholoff the meeting in proper form.

Chairman The commission made, seconded and passed a motion to approve the Girl Scout resolution to be recognized as a CHILDREN & YOUTH national program. After receiving the minutes of the various committees that comprise the Children and Youth ComHAmericanism & Government CommitteeH mission and with there being no further business to come before the commisRoll call disclosed the following: sion, the meeting was adjourned in 11 members present, two members proper form. absent, the 10th district was not represented. There were nine guests present.

HAmerican Legion A condolence card was circulated for Children’s Education the family of the deceased Chairman & Welfare CommitteeH John Wrolen. A brainstorming sesRoll call disclosed the following: sion was held the preceding evening 21 members present, three members on ideas to improve our programs absent, all districts represented. There and process. The comments from the were 13 guests present. session will be posted at Department Minutes were read and approved. Convention. A motion was tabled to Tony Riley presented the finance re- formalize the Junior Americanism and port: general fund $108,502.54, scholar- Government program and provide a ship $132,331, and foundation $84,112. modest department award. After pollTwo previous requests for funds were ing the members, the consensus was approved. The slate of officers for 2013- to move the Junior Americanism and 2014 will be attached. 2nd District Government test from 5th and 6th Chairman Bruce Steffen submitted graders to 7th and 8th graders to betinformation on the Indiana Operation ter align with school curriculum and Military Kids group which is request- student readiness. ing assistance. Chairman Tolan will HBoy Scout CommitteeH speak with a representative from this Roll call disclosed the following: all group at close of books. The request districts were represented. There were is tabled until further information can two guests present. be gathered.

Condolences to Larry McDaniel who lost his mother and was unable to make HAmerican Legion Family the judging of the scholarship award.

Scholarship CommitteeH Charles Martin is feeling better and getJohn Lloyd, Coleman Sumrall, Osting out more from chemo treatment. car Lopez, and John Beebe judged the Chairman Gatewood handed out applications. The judges reviewed 58 placement of Eagle Scout of the Year scholarship applications. The 2013 award and mentioned that the first winners are Grant Wilson from Fran- and second place winners were only cisville who will attend a trade school, separated by less than a point. ChairAmy Wendholt from St. Anthony who man Gatewood also emphasized the is a second year college student, and need to get more people for judging the following three students who will and thanked Thomas C. Klempay, Sr. for attend a traditional four year school: coming down for the first time to judge.

Nathan Lowe from Indianapolis, Kait- Post or district should cover cost of dislyn Plybon from Rossville, and Amanda Waninger from Ferdinand.

Continued on page 9 hoosier legionnaire | APRIL/MAY 2013 | 7

COMMISSION REPORTS

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he Rehabilitation Commission met at 4:30 PM Saturday, April 6, 2013, in Salon D of the Marriott Hotel during the Spring Conference.

Jerome Chairman Jerome Maune opened Maune the meeting in proper form.

Chairman There were no members absent.

There were no motions made dealing with department funds.

REHABILITATION After receiving the minutes of the various committees that comprise the HHomeless Veterans Rehabilitation Commission and with CommitteeH there being no further business to come There were 10 districts present and before the commission, the meeting one absent. The homeless concerns at was adjourned in proper form.

St. Mark have been resolved. A homeHEmployment CommitteeH less veterans resolution was passed and All districts were present. There will be forwarded to the screening comwere no funds requested or resolutions mittee. We still need a financial report made. The Employment Award packets in the committee packet in order to were passed out and it was discussed conduct business. The committee will that the judging will be done at the Fall need an hour for their next meeting.

Conference this year instead of the HIndiana Veterans Mid-Winter training session. There was Home CommitteeH a brief discussion about the state’s law All districts were present. Auxiliary to recognize military training as qualifiChairman Janet Barnaby read a list of cations for civilian job requirements. It items needed for her cart. Intern Superwas suggested that we contact the Indiintendent Melisa Durr spoke about the ana Department of Veterans Affairs for Motel Project and that we have raised further assistance with helping veterenough money to get things started ans get jobs. The LVERs and DVOPs are by the middle of May. The scale model not supporting our programs like they of the World War II Memorial will be used to. Goodwill Industries might be brought to the home on June 23. Brad a model for gaining more input on job Cope from Post 72 donated $100 to opportunities. The committee needs an the home. The 10th District donated hour for their next meeting. $150 for the resident party. Volunteers are needed at the home. The commitHGeneral Hospital tee will need 30 minutes for their next CommitteeH meeting.

All districts were present. There were no funds requested or resolutions HNursing Home made. The director of Rehabilitation CommitteeH spoke about the rehab accounts and All districts were present. There were that we need to request the funds in a no motions made or funds requested. timely fashion. Visits to the Fort Wayne The 2nd District is donating $39.20 of VA Hospital by VA in Washington have bingo funds. The 4th District purchased resulted in improvements being made. health and false teeth kits for $244.54.

Care packages were delivered to the The 6th District is looking for help with patients at the South Carolina VA Hos- donations. The 8th District is looking pital. The committee can conduct their future meeting in 30 minutes.

Continued on page 10 Due to space constraints, these commission and committee reports have been condensed.

You can find the full text of all conference reports at HL★ www.hoosierlegionnaire.org or request print copies from Department headquarters.

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he Internal Affairs Commission met Saturday, April 6, 2013 at 4:30 p.m. in the Marriott East Hotel during the Joint Spring Conference.

Chairman Larry Lowry opened the meeting in proper form.

Chairman Lowry read a resolution out of the Membership Committee regarding DoD. There was a motion to approve the resolution as presented.

The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.

After receiving the minutes of the various committees that comprise the Internal Affairs Commission and with there being no further business to come before the commission, the meeting was adjourned in proper form.

HAmerican Legion RidersH The minutes from the Mid-Winter Conference were read and approved.

There was some discussion on district organization. As Legion Riders, we would like to organize as a group outside the Legion district meetings so we can plan to set up rides and help veterans in some ways. There should be an appointment by the district commander, as a chair, who appoints the rest of officers.

It was announced that this was the last day for consolidated reports 2013.

The next are due at the October meeting.

Chairman Small asked for district reports. The 8th District is active with Patriot Guard Riders and helping Operation Comfort Warriors. They give 100 percent of what they collect as there are no administrative fees.

The 4th District is moving veterans to homes and donating household goods. The district is strong and will help to include those outside of its own district.

The 10th District noted that the rally is set and is going well. Registration and dog tags are available after the meeting today.

The 11th District is trying to connect all Indiana Riders.

1st District reports that Tim Conner was named as chairman for their district.

There were no requests for depart-

Larry Lowry Chairman

INTERNAL AFFAIRS ment funds by the committee. Being no further business to be brought before the committee, the meeting was adjourned in proper form.

HCommunity InvolvementH Chairman Baggett introduced the Auxiliary Liaison Betty Slagle to the Committee. She reported that they worked the job fair at Post 260 in Portage. At present they have 19 employers.

They have been working on getting the community involved in helping veterans.

Chairman Baggett reported that there are two options for turning in scrapbooks. You can mail them into department no later than June 1.

There was some discussion regarding the Disaster Relief Fund. The forms and guidelines are on the department’s website. All applications should be sent to Chairman Baggett for approval and he will forward to department. There was some question of who declares a national disaster and some discussion regarding the need to build up the funds in case of a disaster.

Chairman Baggett asked for district reports.

The 1st District stated that Post 279 is allowing the humane shelter to have a fundraiser which may help recruit new members.

The 2nd District reported that their posts have a lot of ongoing projects to help veterans and the community, such as raising funds for a memorial to be re-worked with the help of the local Boy Scouts.

The 4th District stated that on the 2nd Tuesday of each month, Garret Post 178 loans their facility to the USO, and the Red Cross for a blood drive. In Continued on page 10

COMMISSION REPORTS

americanism Continued from page 7 come before the committee, the meeting was adjourned in proper form.

HBowling CommitteeH

Those absent included: Chairman Gary Steinhardt (excused), Vice Chairman Charles Martin (excused), District Chairman Roy Bradbury 2nd, Gordon Anthony 4th, and William Parks 9th.

Acting Chairman Steward introduced Darrell Hansel for guest introductions. The first guest was National Commander Candidate Dan Dellinger.

The second guest was National Vice Commander Dan Hall.

Acting Chairman Steward then introduced the third guest speaker, James L. Baurle, who spoke on the future of the Reserves Components.

Acting Chairman Steward welcomed the ladies’ Auxiliary to the joint meeting.

Acting Chairman Steward presented resolution 13SP-03 to the committee. A motion was made by Michael Wooden and seconded by Kenny Cooper to pass the resolution and present it to the commission. The motion carried.

There were no requests made dealing with department funds.

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

District 2 was not represented.

Chairman Deckard announced that the bowling tournament at Richmond Post 65 is finished. Trophies were distributed. The prize fund was turned in to department headquarters.

The committee elected the following officers: Chairman Ed Gray, Vice Chairman James Tracey, and Secretary Charles Myers. The same executive committee was elected.

Chairman Deckard announced that the bowling tournament for 2014 will be held at Lafayette Post 11 and will start on March 8 to March 23, 2014.

The tournament was reduced from four weeks to three weeks.

Chairman Deckard reminded the committee of a tournament rule. For Sons of The American Legion members to participate, the four-person team must have no more than three SAL HPOW/MIA CommitteeH members on the team. There were no Districts 2 and 11 were not repremotions made dealing with departsented. ment funds.

The Corydon Run to the Wall on May There being no further business to 21, 2013 to Washington, D.C. was ancome before the committee, the meetnounced. The trip will begin in Corydon ing was adjourned in proper form. and then move to Louisville, Virginia, HGolf CommitteeH and finally, D.C. A fish dinner will be provided in Corydon.

District 2 was not represented.

There were no motions made.

Chairman Comerford announced There were no motions made dealthat Fairmount Post 313 submitted a bid for the 2014 tournament. The golf ing with department funds. course owner, Randy Balinger, spoke There being no further business to on behalf of the tournament. Brochures come before the committee, the meetwere passed out to all committee mem- ing was adjourned in proper form. bers. The tournament cost will be $90.

HSons of The American A motion was made by Bob Miller and Legion CommitteeH seconded by Webber LaGrange to accept the tournament bid.

Districts 3, 5, 8, and 10 were not There were no motions made deal- represented. ing with department funds.

The committee held a moment of There being no further business to silence for Gordon Rayburn and John come before the committee, the meetWrolen. ing was adjourned in proper form.

Resolution was read and approved for 7th District Commander John A. HNSFA CommitteeH All Districts were represented.

Continued on page 22

CHILDREN & YOUTH Continued from page 7 trict Eagle Scout award winners to come down for convention in July. The winner would be covered by department.

District chairmen need to encourage sales of Boy Scouts pins for $4.00.

Scholarship funds at the Department are running low. Due to the need for funds at Department level, it was mentioned that if all Districts could donate $100 that would be ideal. The committee would like to have information on the department website for ordering pins and making checks payable to The Department of Indiana. With a new website, the committee would like to have the capability for an online donation section like National.

Chairman Gatewood and 11th District Chairman Russ Chorpenning brought up a discussion on district winners who, through no fault of the Boy Scout, had not had their application present for judging be able to still be present for convention in July to come on stage and receive plaque. The application would be reviewed and accepted no later than spring conferences to ensure a complete application was done but will not be considered in department judging. Motion made by Chairman Gatewood and seconded by Russ Chorpenning and motion carried.

Motion made by Stephen Kumfer to hold judging at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday of judging, seconded by Russ Chorpenning and carried. It was also mentioned that for new people that judging is generally the Saturday before St. Patrick’s Day.

HBoys State Enrollment CommitteeH All districts were represented. There were 11 guests present.

Secretary Oeth read minutes from the Midwinter conference, with one change. Steve Bowman represented Larry Taillon but there was not a properly completed replacement form.

Chairman Cook distributed a list of delegates received prior to the Spring Conference. He opened the floor to district chairmen to share orientation dates and presenters. Director Oeth stressed the importance of post and district chairmen staying in contact with their delegates and making sure applications are complete. Chairmen should keep pressing the schools to get a good source of boys. Upon his death, former board member Rich Adamski left $25,000 designated for Hoosier Boys State. Chairman Cook reminded everyone that all Legion family members are welcome to visit Trine during the week of Hoosier Boys State. School counselors will be emailed to be invited to spend a day at Trine to learn more about the program.

HChildren & Youth CommitteeH Roll call disclosed the following: eight members present, five members absent, the 9th District was represented. There were 12 guests present.

The 10th District has not appointed a chairman.

Minutes were seconded and approved. Chairman Sharber introduced Auxiliary Chairman Sue Comerford who reported that individuals can access online free memberships to the Boys and Girls Club. Support Military Kids buttons were distributed. Charlie Franklin, Cliff Stephens and Ron Kizer will judge the Educator of the Year. The following districts reported candidates: 1st – 2 candidates, 2nd – 1 candidate, 3rd - no, 4th – 2 candidates, 5th – 2 candidates, 6th – no, 7th – 1 candidate, 8th – 1 candidate, 9th – no, 10th- no, and 11th- 2 candidates. A resolution to have a third category was submitted from Post 261. The new categories will be K-5, 6-8, and 9-12. Cliff Stephens made a motion to accept the resolution which was seconded and passed. Ron Kizer mentioned that the committee will need to request additional funds to have a third category.

The committee would like information on the website and in the newspaper about April being the Children and Continued on page 10

hoosier legionnaire | APRIL/MAY 2013 | 9

COMMISSION REPORTS

CHILDREN & YOUTH Continued from page 9 Youth Month. The department website is being renovated.

Marge Rook commented that national’s website has more information. Bill Kocher made a motion and Cliff Stephens seconded the department website be updated and linked to national’s website. The 2nd District commented that schools are not helpful in choosing Educator of the Year. Applications must be received at the department office by June 1. Judging will be at close of books at 10:00 a.m.

HFlag Education/ Etiquette CommitteeH Roll call disclosed the following: 11 members present, four members absent, all districts represented. There were two guests present.

The motion from the Midwinter Conference to have an open book test rather than closed book was rescinded. The motion was passed. The test questions need to be reviewed.

The POW/MIA flag resolution to have national add POW/MIA flag information to the comic book and add questions to the test was read.

HGirl Scouts CommitteeH Roll call disclosed the fol-

lowing: eight members present, three members absent, all districts represented except for the 5th which has not appointed a chairman, but Phil Turner attended from this district. There was one guest present.

Minutes were read and passed. The resolution regarding establishing a National Girl Scout program was sent to national, but the disposition of the resolution is unknown. The districts reported the following on potential candidates for Girl Scout Gold Award: 1st – has candidate, 8th – hopes to have a candidate, and 11th – has a candidate. Applications are due to Gail Galich by June 1. Post 145 made a $5 donation.

REHABILITATION

INTERNAL AFFAIRS

Continued from page 8

Continued from page 8

to spend all of its money. The 9th District spent all but 10 cents of their money on socks and cleaning supplies. The 10th District reports that women from New Castle are helping them and they are getting requests for small flags.

The 11th District is contacting smaller homes and will be helping seven vets with comfort items.

The committee needs 30 minutes for their next meeting.

HVeterans Assistance CommitteeH All districts were present. The director of rehabilitation introduced the guest speaker, Jim Todd from Voluntary Services, Indianapolis. Mr. Todd discussed the VAVS Program and what we can do to help. There were no motions made or funds requested. The committee needs 30 minutes for their next meeting.

HL★ Find more at www.hoosierlegionnaire.org

March, Sergeant Knott’s name, who was in Afghanistan, was added to the Veterans Memorial in the rotunda at the Dekalb County Courthouse in Auburn, Indiana.

Post 97’s color guard presented the colors for the event which was covered by the local newspaper. Orland Post 423 donated monies to help local families with house payments and heating costs. They built a ramp for a citizen so that he could have improved access to his home.

There was a motion made that each district submits a typed or handwritten report to the chairman. It is difficult for the secretary to get everything written down during the meeting.

There were no requests for Department Funds. Being no further business to be brought before the committee, the meeting was adjourned in proper form.

HJunior Shooting Sports CommitteeH Roll call disclosed the following: all districts represented except for the 11th. There were no guests present.

Daniel Lawson mentioned he would bring a position training CD-ROM to fall conference. He is starting a program at Post 147 Jasper. Chip Yanta, 2nd District, has applied for a National Rifle Association grant to start a program in Post 94 Valparaiso.

The 4th District has 38 shooters. Post 53 Elwood in the 5th District has five shooters. Post 72 Crawfordsville is trying to start a program. Chairman Ida Jewell will be inviting Bill Jordan to attend the fall conference to speak about grants. The Americanism Coordinator will check

this year and volunteers for judges are needed.

There was some discussion and a recommendation to simplify the score sheets.

The committee would like the sheets simplified and condensed to one sheet to be in line with the national organization.

Chairman Hudson will meet with Jim May and Past Department Commander Roger Baker and report back to the committee.

Chairman Hudson informed the committee that the new rule book is available on line. Chairman Hudson had a copy for those interested to look at.

There were no requests for department funds. Being no further business to be brought before the committee, the meeting was adjourned in proper form.

HFirefighter/Law & OrderH

The minutes from the Mid-Winter Conference were read. Chairman Ritenour made a motion to approve the minutes as read. Chairman Stephens seconded. The motion passed unanimously.

Chairman Kocher informed the comHConvention ContestH mittee that they have until June 1st to turn The minutes were read and approved in binders. He announced that two binders have been submitted at department from the Mid-Winter Conference.

Chairman Hudson reported that Post and he has two currently in his possession 495 is hosting the Color Guard Contest that will soon be judged and forwarded.

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into open invitational tournaments to post on the website.

They would like an hour to an hour and thirty minutes for the fall meeting. Plans are pending for a beginner coaches clinic in May.

HOratorical CommitteeH All districts were represented.

There were four guests present.

The department winner was Jana Minnich sponsored by Post 38, 2nd District. She is a homeschooled student. The National American Legion Oratorical contest is April 19-21, 2013 at the Wyndham West in Indianapolis.

Chairman Seto thanked all volunteers for a wonderful year.

HL★ Find more at www.hoosierlegionnaire.org

There were no requests for department funds. Being no further business to be brought before the committee, the meeting was adjourned in proper form.

HLegislativeH NEC Darrell Hansel introduced National Candidate Dan Dellinger who spoke on legislative priorities. NEC Hansel introduced National Vice Chairman David Hall and Alternate NEC Paul Steward.

The minutes from the Mid-Winter Conference were approved as read.

Chairman Rice reported on the Washington D.C. meetings. There were one million VA claims filed last year, two hundred and fifty thousand alone for Agent Orange. Most of the claims are from earlier conflicts. There was some discussion regarding the student veteran association.

There was some discussion regarding the sequestration and its effects.

Commander Jewell reported on the Washington meetings. Twenty-four members attended from Indiana. Indiana had appointments with all nine Indiana legislative districts.

Chairman Rice spoke about Indiana legislation as of April 4, 2013. SB-290 has been signed by Governor Pence. This will Continued on page 15

VETERANS UPDATE

Compensation Reductions—What You Should Know

V

A awards veterans compensation for disabilities associated with their service in the armed forces (service connected disabilities) based on the current severity of the service connected disability. VA compares the symptoms and the disabling effects of the service connected disability with rating criteria listed within VA’s Schedule for Rating Disabilities and then assigns a corresponding compensation ‘rating.’ The higher the service connected rating, the higher the monthly compensation benefit.

Regulations allow VA to schedule veterans for compensation reevaluation examinations until VA determines the

John Hickey Department Service Officer

Veterans Spotlight The Department Service Office will be closed Monday, May 24th in celebration of Memorial Day. The office will otherwise be open each Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. during the month of May. Appointments are necessary for client visits. You may contact the Department Service Office by calling our direct number 317 916 3605; calling long distance toll free number of 1 888 723 7999, extension 1; faxing us at 317 916 3406; or by using the following e-mail address: al.vbaind@va.gov.

service connected disability will not likely improve. This causes many veterans justifiable concern about having their monthly disability compensation benefits reduced.

We have seen an increase in proposed rating reductions within recent months. We suspect more veteran are receiving proposed reduction notices due to VA automating many parts of its rating procedures using ‘’fill in the blanks – out pops a decisions rating calculators” in place of human decision makers.

If you or someone you know receives a VA rating reduction notice, you don’t have to simply accept it and start planning ways to reduce your living ex-

penses. The automatic rating calculator might not know, but you should know; VA must meet very strict guidelines before reducing a disability compensation rating. These guidelines become even more ridged as disability ratings age.

For ratings in effect for fewer than five years, VA must base the proposed reduction on review of the entire history showing an “actual change” in disability with evidence of improvement in the veteran’s ability to function under the ordinary conditions of life and work. VA must also base the proposal to reduce on a thorough examination showing actual change and explaining why the change represents im-

provement in veteran’s ability to function while having provided solid rationale, proper testing, etc.

For ratings in effect for more than five years, all the above holds true plus the evidence must show material and sustained improvement, VA must address the entire medical history of the condition, the examination used for reduction must be as full and complete as exams that earlier ratings were based, and; if the disability has temporary or episodic improvements, VA must have more than one examination showing improvement. Essentially, all the evidence of Continued on page 17

Governor Urged To Support State Archives Building February 6, 2013 Honorable Mike Pence, Governor of Indiana Office of the Governor Statehouse Indianapolis, IN 46204-2797 Dear Governor Pence: The men and women of The Indiana American Legion share your concern and that of many of our elected representatives over the deplorable state of historic and invaluable records maintained by the Indiana State Archives.

These records, which include correspondence between the President Abraham Lincoln and one of your predecessors, Oliver P. Morton, as well as thousands of military records of valiant Hoosier servicemen and women, repose in a dilapidated, sodden warehouse singularly ill-suited for the purpose.

The American Legion has gone on record in support of efforts to establish a suitable storage facility for these records and important papers, not only because we are bound by our founding principles to “preserve the memories and incidents of our associations in the great wars,” but also because we are citizens who take seriously our “obligation to the community, state, and nation.”

We encourage your full support of these efforts.

Editor’s Note: In the last issue of The Hoosier Legionnaire (Feb-Mar 2013), Stephen E. Towne, President of the Friends of the Indiana State Archives, Inc, wrote a guest editorial concerning the need for a purpose-built state archives building to house Indiana’s public records. The following letter

by Commander Jewell to Governor Mike Pence urges the governor to aid in that effort to bring about this goal.

Sincerely, Richard A. Jewell, Department Commander Enclosed with letter was the Preamble to the Constitution of The American Legion and Resolution #12M-9.

HL★

hoosier legionnaire | APRIL/MAY 2013 | 11

Spring Conference Highlights

April Spring Conference Among Other Important Events

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The Spring Confere with notable speak noted were the Linc 1.

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National Vice recognize lead the meeting o 2. Local busines General Assem headquarters 3. The crowd was 10 at departm 4. National Vice Conference.

5. Part of the dis 6. Healing Water 7. The gals danc 8. Judge Advoca providing som 9. Once again, th Commander D 10. The Departme center, are Jan VanDyke.

11. John Hayes, V question “Who 12. From left to rig Commander J building is now 13. Recognition is to Steve Kumf commander, w from the 4th D 14 Dan Lawson p place trophies

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ence featured a majority of the Commission and Committee meetings along kers, training sessions, and the awarding of recognition plaques. Other events coln Pilgrimage, the Oratorical Contest, and special Post activities.

Commander David Hall and National Executive Committeeman Darrell Hansel ding candidate for national commander Dan Dellinger (center) while at of department and district officers during the Spring Conference. ssman Bob McGee acknowledging the recognition of the Spring Conference mbly for his gift of an Amethyst eagle that was presented to national of The American Legion in 2012 (see photo page 1). s large and enthusiastic at the Department Oratorical Contest held on March ment headquarters.

Commander David Hall, West Virginia, brings greetings during the Spring

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stinguished guests seating at the General Assembly. rs Flyfishing was one of the exhibitors at the Spring Conference. ce and the guys watch during Commander Jewell’s Spring Conference party. ate Bumbleburg hopes to keep Department Adjutant Dagley out of trouble by me legal words of wisdom. he turnout for the February Lincoln Pilgrimage in Springfield, Illinois, lead by Dick Jewell, was impressive. ent of Indiana Oratorical Contest four finalists, with Commander Jewell in na Minich (contest winner), Annalee Witte, Jackson Embry, and Robert

ice Chairman of the Indiana American Legion Baseball Committee, asks the o’s on first?” ght, Past Post Commander Dr. Oliver W. Page, Jr., Duane Alexander, and Post John Thomas look on as fire destroys the mortgage papers, signifying that the w solely owned by the members of Post 249. s given by ‘Robbie’ Robertson, chairman of the Homeless Veterans Committee, fer, commander, whose Post 499 gave $4,000 and to Jim Hamilton, district whose Riders gave $1,000 and district $1000, for a grand total of $6,000 District. presents Dan Conkling and John Voland, SAL from the 2nd District, the 1st s for winning the Corn Hole Contest at the Conference.

7 hoosier legionnaire | APRIL/MAY 2013 | 13

MEMBERSHIP

Renew Members With Personal Contact

H

ello Fellow Legionnaires!

It’s been a pleasure to serve with Commander Jewell and our Membership Team this year. We just finished our last conference and I hope our future card turn-ins will be enough to cover our deficit of 1,686 cards and take us to a new high in membership.

When you know what you want, and you want it badly enough, you will find a way to get it. I try to treat membership with the same thought process. If you care at all, you will get some results. If you care enough, you will get incredible

Marty Dzieglowicz Department Membership Chairman

Chairman’s Notes results. Think what a telephone call or personal contact will do to get that renewal or new member.

I often think of motivation as the answer. Sometimes the situation is that you have an under-trained person who is

then motivated, but under performs. That’s where training comes into focus and there is much to assimilate about The American Legion. A well-educated, motivated Legionnaire can do wonders to achieve our membership goals.

Right now the state is at 92.13 percent. Our goal is 100 percent. It’s out there – all we have to do is go for it!

On the national level, we are performing well. We have made all of our goals so far, a great feat in itself. I want to personally thank the district commanders, the entire Membership Team and all the blue

cap Legionnaires for all their hard work achieving our national goals. It’s a great feeling to get a pat on the back from national.

I would like to leave you with this thought—there are two ways to face the future. One way is with apprehension. The other way is with anticipation!

I anticipate great Team effort and outstanding results in attaining our goal of 100% membership!

NOW, continue to ARM yourself with a packet of Legion, Auxiliary and SAL applications—and, Always Remember Membership! HL★

Member Seeks A More Active Post Dear Aubrey I would like to transfer my membership to another post.

How do I go about doing this?

Fed up!

Aubrey Hancock

DEPARTMENt All you need to do is go to membership manager the post you want to transfer to, and let a post officer know Ask Aubrey that you would like to transfer in. He or she will ask to see your Please send your questions to Aubrey membership card, and possibly, c/o Department Headquarters, to your DD-214, depending on the ahancock@legion.org, or phone them post. The post will fill out what in to (317) 630-1300. is called a Member Data Form.

You will sign the bottom, and the post will send the form in to every 3 months. National has a cut-off date that the post needs Department Headquarters. to meet or else the member(s) will end up getting another reDear Aubrey Why do I keep getting re- newal notice. For example, if newal notices when I’ve already the cut-off date is April 11, the post must have mailed in your paid?

Too much mail. dues to Department by that date in order to be taken off of the Renewal Notices go out once Renewal Notice mailing list. You

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might want to contact the post with 200 members will be asto see if it actually has sent in signed three delegates: one for its charter, one for the first 100 your renewal. members and the third one for the second 100 members. For Dear Aubrey Could you clarify how to de- simplicity sake, think of it as termine the number of Dele- adding one more delegate as the gates our post is able to claim? membership hits the -51 mark; Wannabe Delegate that is, 51 members equals two delegates, 151 members equals That depends on which three delegates, 251 equals four convention you are concerned delegates, and so on.

The same procedure applies with. The process for both the Department and National Con- to alternates.

For the National Convention, ventions is similar, but there are real differences. For the each department is entitled to Department Convention, the five delegates plus one additionpost receives one delegate for al delegate for every 1,000 memits charter, plus one more for bers or major fraction thereof. In each one hundred members or Indiana, delegates are selected major fraction thereof (the first by the districts, based on their major fraction of 100 is 51/100). membership totals: one delegate So, a post with 100 members per 1,000 members or major will be assigned two delegates: fraction thereof. The additional one for its charter and one for the first 0-100 members. A post Continued on page 22

Posts at 100% As of 4/2/13 District 1 Post 0016, Munster Post 0017, Gary Post 0080, Whiting Post 232, Hammond

District 2 Post 0023, Kentland Post 0146, Morocco Post 0228, Francesville Post 0238, Roselawn Post 0375, Lake Village Post 0413, Camden Post 0414, Burlington Post 0455, Earl Park

District 3 Post 0068, Argos Post 0130, Michigan City Post 0151, Granger Post 0191, Bremen Post 0385, Lapaz

District 4 Post 0097, Auburn Post 0202, Butler Post 0243, Ligonier Post 0409, Leo Post 0467, Hamilton Post 0499, Allen County

District 5 Post 0046, Tipton Post 0085, Huntington Post 0087, Alexandria Post 0117, Pendleton Post 0211, Portland Post 0286, North Manchester Post 0555, Bunker Hill Post 0608, Pendleton

District 6 Post 0067, Sheridan Post 0323, Waveland Post 0341, Cicero Post 0346, Terre Haute

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MEMBERSHIP

Paying Debt To Society Takes Many Forms

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merican Legion Post 130 was chartered on May 27, 1998 and since then they have been a busy bunch.

In October, they had a grand celebration to mark a monetary milestone in the short time they have been in existence.

To celebrate the efforts of both the post and the squadron, a very nice meal was prepared by the members in the culinary school. Believe me, it was a feast fit for a king.

In attendance was Department Commander Richard Jewell, Past Detachment Commander Glen Nagle, District Commander Dan Lee, and my-

INTERNAL AFFAIRS Continued from page 10 help Hoosier Veterans put their military training and experience to work when they return home.

He stated that this is good for them and good for Indiana.

There was some discussion regarding the department’s policy about testifying during legislation. You should speak with the department commander or legislation chairman first. Until you do, you are not permitted to wear your Legion cover at such meetings.

There was some discussion regarding the Distinguished Service Awards for this year. There are seven politicians the committee will recognize this year: Rep. Chuck Mosley, Senator Glick, Senator Banks, Senator Hume, Rep. Vandenburg, Senator Delph and Senator Baird.

The department should recog-

existence, they have raised and donated over $100,000 to many folks in need from the local to the state levels. Few examples are Salvation Army $8000; Indiana Veterans’ Home $6650; annual donations to the current commanders project for a total of $5150; Riley’s Children’s Hospital $5150; Knightstown Home $4600; Child Welfare Foundation $3150; the list goes on and on. What you may not know about Post 130 is the fact that it is located behind the walls of the Indiana State Prison in Michigan City.

Yes, here are some of our country’s veterans who have

gotten themselves into trouble but are currently paying their debt to society. Simultaneously, they want to give back to society and they do so from the many fund raisers they conduct. They then give away all of that money.

You may be wondering what kind of fundraisers they have.

Food sales are popular events within the walls. Whether it is Subway sandwiches, Pizza Hut pizzas or just boxed food from Aldi’s, many of the residents take advantage of the treats the post arranges to purchase and deliver. Post and squadron members take the orders and

for the sale price plus an additional premium, the goods are delivered. The premium goes into the Legion fund and is subsequently donated as the post sees fit. Another form of fund raising is the sale of tickets which are exchanged for photographs of friends and relatives on visitation day.

All of these to help those in need outside and sometimes inside the walls. A giant and well deserved ‘good job’ goes out to Post 130 and Squadron 130! Keep up the good work.

motion was seconded and passed unanimously.

Chairman Dzieglowicz reported that we are at 91.93 percent, which is not the goal for today of 100 percent. He thanked everyone for their hard work. He reminded all in attendance that the department was 1775 cards behind last year at this time.

Chairman Dzieglowicz read a resolution from Post 200 in Boonville requiring the NEC to enter into negotiations with DoD to recruit new military recruits into The American Legion. A motion was made to approve the resolution. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.

A resolution was read from Post 464 in St. Leon regarding remission of fees in Indiana to open the eligibility so August 24, 1982 to July 31, 1984 and from December 51, 1989 to January 31, 1990. National Liaison HMembershipH Hylton provided background There was a motion to ap- information on the resolution. prove the minutes from the Commander Jewell suggested Mid-Winter Conference. The that Department Adjutant Da-

gley hold it for further study and make revisions to enact it on a state level. There was a motion to hold it for further study.

The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.

The next target date is May 5 and it is for 101 percent. On April 19th, Chairman Dzieglowicz will be meeting with local colleges to set up an electronic post or to recruit into local posts in Valparaiso.

Chairman Dzieglowicz handed out an example advertisement that will be used by one of our districts on Memorial Day in the local newspaper.

He called on Past 11th District Commander Richard Brown to discuss a memorandum of understanding that we have with the National Guard. Brown discussed how the Legion can get into the armories to present our organization to guardsmen. Basically, it is how to sell the features and benefits of American Legion membership.

A copy of the memo and some talking points were distributed.

There were numerous suggestions shared and thoughts discussed.

Commander Jewell addressed the committee about posts already sending in their unused cards and stated that this would not be allowed. No cards should be sent to the department until the Close of Books.

1st District Chairman Grauvogl reported a record number of 100 percent posts. He discussed a few financial difficulties.

Chairman Platt shared what the 2nd District had done this year, including drive arounds and mailings.

Chairman Heckathorn reported that the 3rd District is still plugging along.

4th District Chairman Frederick, credited with the ad discussed earlier, shared more details and ideas.

The 6th District reported that they are still struggling but are making personal visits.

Mike Miller Past Department Commander

Guest Reporter self. Several Legionnaires and Sons of The American Legion from the district were there as well.

You might ask, what was the reason for this grand celebration? In the short time the post and squadron have been in

nize them for all their support with veterans issues. There was a motion to acknowledge all seven. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.

Commander Jewell spoke about SB-177 being held up in the Statehouse but he believes it will pass. SB-115 has been passed as well as SB-17.

There were no district reports.

Auxiliary Liaison Brown thanked the Legion for all their hard work and efforts in Washington as well as here in Indiana.

A request for department funds was made for an unknown amount for the seven plaques to be presented at department convention.

There being no further business to be brought before the committee, the meeting was adjourned in proper form.

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ello Friends of the First District.

I hope you all had a great Easter. The time is now near to think of elections. The political parties have their primaries in May. My home post receives voters from Mike Wooden precincts in two differC ommander ent towns. Please go and vote. Our district elections are also in May. The annual post elections are also coming up soon.

When electing officers, remember that each post is its own corporation. You are not electing officers of a club, but officers of a corporation. They have the responsibility to comply with all the rules imposed the IRS, the Indiana Secretary of State, the Indiana Gaming Commission, the Indiana Alcohol and Tobacco Commission, and registration requirements for the weapons used for ceremonial occasions as well as following the post by laws and constitution.

As a district, we visited the Indiana Veterans’ Home in West Lafayette in Our Flag Etiquette and Education program in March. Thanks to Al Pulido for chairing this activity. He coordinated our visitation with the residents providing a meal for them at Post 492 with musical entertainment.

As Legionnaires, service to the community, state and nation is our priority. The communities we live in support us because we are the go-to people for help. We need to share how we help others in order to get new members. One way of knowing how much service we have provided is to review the information in the consolidated post report. The post adjutant is asked to fill in the 119 lines of the annual report. The report shows what each post has done to support veterans’ affairs, national security, public relations, ceremonial honors, economic awards, Americanism, Children and Youth, and Internal Affairs. These reports are used by our national organization to show how we have been of value to our community and the nation. This is what gives The American Legion its lobbying influence. I urge you, as post members, to find out how your post is filing this report.

We, as an organization, lobby our state and national legislatures to maintain and improve veterans’ benefits. We have programs to provide Temporary Family Assistance, the Child Welfare Foundation, and Operation Comfort Warriors.

Many post members are not aware of Legion programs and opportunities outside of their own post.

We need to share information about how we provide opportunities for youth in attending Hoosier Boys

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would like to congratulate all the posts that have achieved 100%. We have just finished with Spring Conference and I would like to thank everyone who attended, I hope you have a lot of valuRichard Sexton able information to take C ommander back to your posts. If you have never attended a conference, I urge you to attend one sometime in the future as there is a lot of information to help with your post.

It is getting that time of year when increasing the post membership becomes more difficult. Now is the time to check the green-bar reports and get in contact with the members. We have quite a few posts that need fewer than 10 cards to achieve 100 percent so please check your roster and, hopefully, you can achieve 100 percent.

I know it seems we talk a lot about membership, but the fact is that is what gives us strength to help other veterans and their families, especially now when things are a lot tougher. The more members we have, the more it gives us a bigger voice in the state and in Washington.

Please do not mail in your preprinted and blank cards now. The year is not over. The Close of Books is June 9 and that is when you should turn in your preprinted and blank cards. When you are ready to turn in those cards, the department just needs the total number of preprinted and blank cards, not two separate numbers.

I would like to congratulate Jana Minich for winning state Oratorical Contest. She was sponsored by Post 38, West Lafayette of our 2nd District. Thanks to all the posts for working the Legion programs.

The Legion, SAL, and Auxiliary are selling tickets for branch of service military crests that are carved wood. They would make a great display in a Legion post. So please see one of the Family of Three for tickets. The drawing will be at state convention.

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COMMANDER’S MESSAGE Continued from page 2 It’s an awesome way to meet some of your members who, maybe, don’t feel the connection that post and district leaders do. Your department membership chairman, vice commanders, and I are there to help you any time you want to go. Grab your membership list and your GPS and go knock on the door. You’ll be glad you did! HL★

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he 3rd District has the following to report since our last edition of the Legionnaire. New Carlisle Post 297 had a beautiful 93rd birthday celebration on March 9th. After a great meal prepared by the Daniel Lee ladies’ Auxiliary of Unit C ommander 297, a beautiful program followed. I was a guest speaker and talked about the ‘birth’ of The American Legion which is commemorated on March 15.

On that date in 1919, the first American Legion caucus, held by members of the American Expeditionary Force, convened in Paris. Much as the birthday of the United States is celebrated on July 4 – for the date in 1776 when patriots declared the independence of the British colonies and the spirit of America was born – March 15 is the date when The American Legion came to life. Each year, posts across the country hold events to commemorate this anniversary.

Attending the celebration were past Department Commanders Mike Miller and Don Conn, 3rd district officers and members of various posts and guests. Three lucky winners walked away with patriotic flower arrangements which were raffled off with proceeds going to the ‘Gus Karacson’ Memorial Fund. These funds are then donated to the Indiana Veterans’ Home at close of books each year. A great time was enjoyed by all in attendance.

Also, on March 30th, the post hosted an Easter egg hunt for the children in the community. A beautiful day drew a record crowd of over 250 adults and children with 150 kids running for the eggs. There were three age groups, each group taking turns hunting for the eggs. Prizes included silver eggs worth $5.00 each, and gold eggs worth $10. Also, large Easter baskets were given for most eggs gathered by one child in each age group. Other prizes included one extra Easter basket and three $25 gift cards from Wal-Mart. A drawing was held and all children had a chance to win the last Easter basket or a $25 gift card.

I hope to bring to you more news from our 3rd District posts in the next edition of The Hoosier Legionnaire. HL★

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reetings from the Fabulous Fourth.

I am so glad that March is over and I hope the snow is over and warm weather will take over now.

March also brought us a lot of birthday parDick Bash ties, and I want to thank C ommander department officials and national officer for coming to the 4th District to attend and speak. You guys did a great job and you are always welcome. With all the great dinners served, I gained at least 10 pounds.

I also have attended some Come Home Parties for the G.I.s who were overseas and they all told me that it was something they would always remember.

I know they will be Legion members for life, not to mention some of their family members who joined the Legion.

The Oratorical contest in Indianapolis was great and if you have never been to one of them, put it on next year’s calendar. You won’t be sorry. Our 4th District candidate did a really good job and was a runner-up.

Our membership time is not on our side so please work hard and try to renew the ones who have not.

In closing, Spring conference is about here and I hope that a real good attendance at all the meetings is your post’s goal. Remember, our programs are our foundation and good things always follow. See you all soon and for God and Country Always. HL★

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record must support a conclusion that the material improvement can be maintained under ordinary conditions of life.

Ratings in effect for 20 years or more cannot be reduced unless they were granted based upon fraud.

Before reducing 100% compensation ratings, material improvement must be shown; the new exam must be compared to earlier symptoms, not to rating schedule; and improvement must have occurred under the ordinary conditions of life, i.e., while working or actively seeking work.

Once a veteran has a 100 percent individual unemployability rating, the VA may not revoke it

reetings from the Mighty 5th District.

These past few months have been an exciting time in the Mighty 5th District. We have three officers in the 5th District campaigning for department office. From our Richard Thomas C ommander Fairmount Post 313, we have Ed Trice for Department Commander, Jerry Stevens Sgt-at-Arms and out of Post 6, in Kokomo, Mike (Jocko) Comerford for northern vice commander. I was able to ride along with these gentlemen and supported them on the campaign trail at various district meetings. We were welcomed and I appreciated the opportunity to visit the other posts outside the 5th District.

The 5th District attended the 79th Annual National Pilgrimage of The American Legion to the tomb of Abraham Lincoln. We honored our 16th president on his 204th birthday in Springfield, Illinois. Our host was the Springfield Post 32 and the Department of Illinois.

They have been honoring our 16th president annually on his birthday for 79 consecutive years since February 12, 1935. Our Department Commander Richard Jewell placed a wreath at the tomb of Abraham Lincoln and National Commander James Koutz was one of many speakers at this event. This was my first Lincoln Pilgrimage and I was not disappointed.

It was a memorable and enjoyable trip.

Veterans helping veterans--the Louis Monroe American Legion Post 53, Elwood, did just that. After being contacted last November by the county veteran service officer about a World War II veteran who needed help, the members of Post 53 went to work with Post Commander Rob Burkhart--who is also Vice Commander in the 5th District--and put a plan together to rebuild the handicap wheel chair ramps on both the front and rear entrances to the house.

They repaired the roof that was leaking. Through a partnership with the Correctional Industrial Facility (CIF Indiana Department of Corrections), Grace College’s Building Services Program at CIF, and Lowe’s in Anderson, Indiana, the members of Post 53 were able to replace both the front and rear ramps for Mr. George Ellis, a World War II Navy veteran who saw action in the Pacific theater. Funds were donated by Ms. Wendy Knight of the CIF and the ramps were built in the facility by offenders in the building services class under the direction of Mr. Robert Cari.

Mr. Joe Peeper, also a World War II veteran, and Mr. Gene Herkless, a Korea veteran, received a check from the administrative staff at CIF on December 12th and the project was underway. Once completed, the parts were transported to Mr. Ellis’ house and installed,

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reetings!

I want to thank Assistant Adjutant Buzz Smith for coming to my district meeting in March and providing information about Temporary Financial Assistance Program for children of veterans. He Darrell Bowman provided the forms and C ommander the information for a post to start with the family and gather the information needed. This is a very important program, for not only the veterans but for their children and sometimes the children’s children.

Again, thanks Buzz for a very good presentation.

The next couple of months will be very busy for all of us, not only at the post level but at the district level, as well. Nominations for new officers, election and then installation of those officers are very important jobs for the post. This action alone could be a crossroads for a post. If you do not get the correct officers elected, then you may have a difficult year.

Appointments to the committee are another step on keeping a post healthy and working towards the post goals. This also goes along with the district officers and appointments to the different committees of The American Legion.

Membership – what can I say? If you do not have 100% now, you need to work very hard to meet your goal. There are several posts that need one, two, or a few more members to renew to get that 100 percent.

You need to get in touch with your vice commanders or me for assistance so we can see what other avenues you may try to get those members to renew. Also, you do not need to send all your cards to department headquarters now, but have them ready to turn in at the Close of Books on June 8th. You may still get new members to join your post.

After you elect your officers and install them, please put the information on the forms that need to be filled out and return them to department headquarters. The Post Data Report, Post Officers Certification and Post Delegate Certification forms were sent to your posts adjutant’s attention. If for some reason, you do not have these forms, then call department headquarters or me to get them before the due dates. The Commander/Adjutant cards will be mailed separately once received by national headquarters.

May is a very busy month with Armed Forces Day, Memorial Day and, don’t forget, Mother’s Day. Also, at the district meeting at Post 79 Zionsville, we will have the Everlasting Ceremony for all the members who have passed. Bring those names with you to the meeting so we can honor those members.

Please keep our service men and women in your prayers so they may return to their homes and families safely. HL★

DISTRICT 6

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reetings from the fighting 7th District. It has been a busy couple of months since the last article here in the 7th and, of course, in the department. By the time you get this, the spring conference has Kevin Hinton come and gone. I hope Commander you had a Happy Easter and a productive conference. Since my last news article, the 7th District hosted the Zone 4 of the oratorical contest. I would like to thank the Office of Marketing and Communications, Director Jim Hanchett, and the Assistant Director of Marketing and Events, Nicole (Nikki) Rolf, from Indiana University School of Public and Environmental Affairs, for hosting this year’s zone competition. Also, a special thanks to Nikki for the hors d’oeuvres she put out for us. What a spread it was! I’d also like to congratulate Jackson Embry who is home schooled, sponsored by Post 147, in the 8th District for winning Zone 4. Thanks to my District Chairman Larry Taillon for his hard work on both the district and the zone.

I want congratulate Putoff-Lautenschlager Post 141 in Coal City and Trafalgar Post 416 for being 100 percent in membership. Keep up the good work! In the February/March issue of The Hoosier Legionnaire, I failed to mention that my Sergeant-at-Arms Walter Keene was also in attendance at Coal City and Clay City’s Christmas celebrations. Thanks, Walter, for all the hard work you do for the district!

I want to thank Burton Woolery Post 18; Vincennes Post 73; Frank Courtney Post 22; and Sullivan Post 139 for inviting me to their American Legion birthday celebrations.

In Bloomington, we had the chance to listen to Rebecca Frazer, our National Oratorical Champion.

She was on hand to help present a special recognition to our long time oratorical chairman, Allan Conley, Oratorical Emeritus. Of course, I enjoyed Commander Jewell’s speech as well.

I would like to thank Vincennes for giving me the opportunity to speak.

Southern Vice Commander Larry Dent delivered a great message at Post 22, Linton.

And, it is always great to visit Sullivan Post 139 every year. They do a great job inviting area schools’ fourth grade flag etiquette winners to the dinner, as well as recognizing them for winning the competition. HL★

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want to congratulate the 8th District for the hard work towards not only membership but the effort in participating in our American Legion programs. I’m a firm believer that working programs will lead Daniel Lawson to membership growth.

Commander Don’t forget to let the public know what you are doing--blow your horn. Public awareness is a must.

I had a great time visiting Washington D.C. and taking part in the 2013 Washington Conference. I was proud to represent the 8th District and be part of the effort to sway our Congressional leadership to prevent the term sequester and to promote our legislative priorities for the 113th Congress. We gave it our all; unfortunately, our leaders had other things on their minds. We are a not-for-profit veterans’ organization and we do not take political sides. We do have the power of the individual vote. I ask all to remember this lack of leadership in the future. Make your voice known, both at the state level and the national level.

We are the largest and the powerful veterans’ organization in the country. Make your politicians aware of your concerns and we will see results.

I commend those posts that have achieved their 100% goals: Post 463, Post 35, Post 115, Post 444, Post 44, Post 42, Post 187 and Post 366. There are many posts that are just a few cards away and I’m sure they will have achieved their goal prior to the publishing of this article. Don’t forget that help is a phone call away. Use me, your vice commanders and past district commanders. Abuse us. I’m great on knocking on doors and making phone calls.

I’ve made several post meetings since the New Year. It’s an honor for me to do so. I’m only there to observe and possibly give advice and forward vital information from the department and national headquarters. Most of my visits have been rewarding but a few have not been. Please remember the following statement by Charles Swindoll concerning membership and being a team player.

The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude in our lives. Attitude, to me, is more important than education, than money, than circumstances, than what other people think, say or do. It is more important than appearance, giftedness, or skill.

It will make or break a company, organization, or a home. The remarkable thing is that we have a choice everyday regarding the attitude that we embrace, for that day. We cannot change our past; we can-

Another two months have come and gone.

Here at the 9th District, we are trudging along with membership. A lot of good members are working hard at getting our cards in. I’ve noticed a lot of the members who William Parks have not taken care of C ommander their dues are long standing members. Times are hard right now and we understand this. I would suggest that if you are having difficulties with paying your dues, contact your post and maybe they could see if there is any assistance available. It would be a shame to lose good members with numerous years because we did not know their circumstances. Please let your post know. We are here as a family to help, if possible.

I know that by the time everyone reads this article the birthday month and Spring Conference will be in the past. I hope everyone had a chance to visit your post or even another post to celebrate the founding event of The American Legion. It’s now been 94 years and we are still a strong organization. We need to keep this going strong by getting involved. There are a lot of opportunities to help out. Even the smallest of help is appreciated and sometimes these small things that we don’t think mean much, really have an impact on the post. Post elections are coming up and maybe some new ideas that you may have would help keep us strong. One way to get your ideas out there is to attend your monthly meetings or, better yet, attend a district meeting. What about joining us for a conference or two? The Spring Conference was April 8th and 9th. It was a great time had by all who had attended.

By this time, all post adjutants should have received their post certification forms. Post officer elections are coming this May. Post commanders and post adjutants must make sure that as soon as their elections are over, the certification forms are filled out with the proper information and sent to the Department. DO NOT wait until your officers are installed to send in these forms. They must be sent immediately after the elections. Even if none of your post officers change you still must submit this form. If you have not received your forms or have any questions, please contact me.

One of the projects that I have been working on this year is with our local WorkOne office. We have partnered with the Regional Operators of the local WorkOne Office at Lawrenceburg. We have set up a pilot program at The American Legion Post 59 where

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re e t i n g s f r o m the 10th District.

Spring is finally here--or is it? It seems like a long winter, more so than usual and hopefully it will begin to warm up.

As we are getting ready for the Spring ConferJere Riggs ence, we can look back as Commander well as forward and enjoy some of our accomplishments. One such enjoyable moment was seeing the 10th District Oratorical winner go on to the department contest in March. Annalee Witte from rural route Wilkinson did very well in the Zone contest.

Since she is a sophomore this year at Eastern Hancock High School she will be back next year with experience, maturity and a desire to become Department Oratorical winner.

The 10th District will be at 100 percent with only 520 more members. This now places us at 92.34 percent and I know that there are more veterans out there in our communities who are unaware of American Legion programs. Being unaware, they will remain that way unless we inform them of what we do. The only way at this late hour is to call, visit and solicit their interest in explaining how we as a group are spokespersons for their veteran benefits, children and youth programs, youth scholarships and in maintaining a voice in keeping our military strong and viable in these turbulent times. With six posts at 100 percent and 21 at or above 90 percent; we can do it if we try!

This has been an interesting year with the department commander from the 10th District as well as the national commander from Indiana. We look forward to the remaining tenure of these good men as the last quarter begins of their leadership. The Homecoming for the National Commander is May 10 and everyone is ready to celebrate with Jim for his service and leadership in his capacity as the national commander.

The 10th District has added three more American Legion Riders chapters to the roles of the department: Muncie Chapter 19, Liberty Chapter 122 and Connersville Chapter 1. In total, we have 12 chapters and are ready to ride. There will be a ‘Blessing of Bikes’ at Shelbyville Post 70 on April 28, 2013 at 1:00 P.M. for district riders and anyone else interested who owns a motorcycle. The first big ride for some of the District Riders will be Rolling Thunder protest parade in Washington D.C. on the 26th of May. Some of our riders will leave Indiana on the 21st to enjoy the scenic ride and visit some of the sites that Washington has to offer. Then there are two more big

oosier Veterans and Legionnaires, I hope this article finds each of you in good health and ready to enjoy springtime in Indiana.

There are many new things going on I would like to update you Rex Ikemire about.

C ommander I would like to mention that we have a special Marine veteran named ‘Pete.’ Pete is not just your everyday veteran; he is a three-time veteran just back from Afghanistan. Sargent Pete is an adorable black Labrador retriever and specializes at searching for explosives/bombs. Thanks to him, there have been countless lives of our soldiers spared from unspeakable harm.

His current assignment is with the Marion county Sherriff’s Department and his handler, Corporal Jeremiah Pool, is an 11th District Sons of The American Legion member as well. During the March district meeting, Sergeant Pete put on an amazing demonstration of his abilities with 100% success. Shortly thereafter, Pete unanimously was made our 11th District mascot. Pete is a prime example of what our 11th District membership represents; ‘The Best of The Best.’ We serve, protect, and care for our veterans and their families.

The 11th District Community Involvement projects have been expanded. Vice Commander Pool and I have recently met with Police Chief Rick Hite and Sheriff John Layton. With their cooperation, we now have approval to attend the district roll calls. Chief Hite and Sheriff Layton have been instrumental with the different community meetings. We are finding ways to boost membership and at the same time promote community involvement. During these community meetings, we are informing the community that we have children’s programs. These programs will enrich our children’s lives, as well as serve our communities. We also inform them of our efforts to promote projects throughout their community and we donate monies back to our local areas as well. We explain the benefits of being a Legionnaire, Auxiliary, or SAL member.

Recently developed was a speaker’s bureau. This bureau will provide volunteers to speak and inform of The American Legion’s community involvement and what The American Legion has to offer. I am asking that each post have a volunteer to help attend these community association meetings as a speaker.

As the bureau continues to develop, I expect to see a considerable increase of membership. There will be a better understanding by our communities, of

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what The American Legion has to offer. Veterans will also be acquiring knowledge of what The American Legion has a lot to offer them, from friendships to help when needed.

This last message is for all Legionnaires, Auxiliary, and SAL members. Membership is everyone’s concern. Please ask and inform friends, family, neighbors, acquaintances about The American Legion and its programs. This is not just the responsibility of your post officers. Think about this for just one moment.

You have ten post officers; now compare that to the number of post members. Now that you have had a moment to think about it, what makes more sense?

Should your officers be the only ones to work the membership or the entire family working the membership? Please help your post with membership.

I would like to convey to all--whether you are a Legionnaire, Auxiliary, or SAL member--we are family, let’s work together to make it a family effort.

I want to take just a moment to say thank you to all my officers this year! You have stepped up and done everything that I have asked of you. We still have a lot of work to do yet, and I know you will be there ready to get the job done!

May God protect our troops, comfort their families, and bless our Legion family! HL★

District 5 Continued from page 17 one in December before Christmas and the other, in February. Although George was able to see and use the front ramp he was never able to use the rear ramp. He passed away at the age of 84, two days after it was installed. George was described as an excellent neighbor. Now that George has transferred to Post Everlasting, the members of Post 53 will finish the project for his widow, Georgia.

At the Montpelier Post 156, in our district meeting in February, we were presented with $100 for the Children Protection Screening Program, from Commander Cliff Martin Chesterfield, Post 408. We also received $100 from the Lapel Post 212 by Commander Jack Hazelwood who presented it to the 5th District, for the Indiana Veterans’ Home. If you have not been to a district meeting in awhile, I encourage you to make a meeting soon, because we have important information to share with you and the food is excellent.

In the 5th District, many posts have excellent food.

If you are in the area, give them a call or stop in. Especially recommended are Kokomo Post 6, Van Buren Post 368, Lapel Post 212, and Fairmount Post 313.

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INTERNAL AFFAIRS Continued from page 15 Past Department Commander Bill Firkins, representing the 7th District, spoke highly of his district’s membership efforts.

8th District Commander Lawson reported on his planned efforts and getting the past district commanders involved.

9th District Commander Parks stated that his district is still working.

The 10th District Chairman Ordelheide reported to the committee on his efforts and recent successes.

11th District Commander Ikemire informed all in attendance about trying new things in his district, working with home associations and how well that has worked. They were invited to a job fair which got them 20 new members.

Commander Jewell reported that there are over 100 veterans at the Indiana Veterans’ Home whose dues have not been paid. A list will be sent to the district commanders. The commander stated that we need to take care of this.

Chairman Dzieglowicz passed out pins to all in attendance. He introduced his Auxiliary Liaison, Roseanne Dzieglowicz. She spoke briefly regarding her membership efforts and stated that she would win their bet against the membership chairman of the Legion for the top membership number.

There were no requests for department funds. Being no further business to be brought before the committee,

the meeting was adjourned in proper form.

HNew Post Development/ RevitalizationH The 5th District and the 11th District were not represented.

The minutes were read and approved from the Mid-Winter Conference.

Chairman Hoffman informed the committee that the setting of procedures to close a post has been referred to the Department Judge Advocate and the Finance Committee.

The Committee will be notified when a procedure has been put into place.

1st District reported that there are things going on regarding the sale of Post 168.

There is no official word yet and he will keep the committee informed.

2nd District reported that no new posts are being planned.

There was no report from the 3rd District.

4th District reported that there are some posts downsizing. Some posts that were struggling in the past are now at 100 percent or above.

The 5th District and the 6th District had no reports.

7th District reported that the Brazil Post is doing well and is working on a new post home.

The Dugger Post is struggling.

The 8th District reported that the Huntingburg Post was sold. Henryville post is doing well.

The 9th District reported that all was going well.

10th District reported that due to poor performance, a post commander had been replaced.

The 11th District had no report.

Terry Smith commented on the insurance and upkeep on closed posts. He mentioned

20 | APRIL/MAY 2013 | hoosier legionnaire

about the department’s involvement, specifically as related to Post 47. There was much discussion on procedures of closing posts and asset distribution. Commission Chairman Lowry commented that there was a procedure in place to close posts with a distribution of its assets. Chairman Hoffman shared the story of the Mooresville Post merging and the success it has had.

Monies from the sale of the building were used for PUFL and scholarships.

Commander Jewell and Terry Smith offered to visit the leadership of Post 47 to see if they may help resolve issues.

There were no requests for department funds. Being no further business to be brought before the committee, the meeting was adjourned in proper form.

HPublic RelationsH There was some discussion regarding the key word search on the department website.

Chairman Rook reported that a new website is in the works.

Judging for the newsletters is scheduled for Close of Books at Lafayette Home at 9:00 a.m.

Chairman Ward asked for district reports.

The 1st District reported that Department Commander Jewell is scheduled to do the Veterans Radio Program, Friday, April 12, 2013.

The 2nd District reported that they are trying to get more exposure in the newspapers about our Legion programs.

Valparaiso Post has radio coverage for PTSD and veterans court.

The 3rd District reported that they are promoting the T.F.A. Program in the papers.

The 4th District had no report.

The 5th District reported that Vice Chairman Jerry Stoner is having health issues.

The 6th District reported that Vigo County Veterans Memorial Park dedication is on Memorial Day. The 7th District had no report.

The 8th District reported that they replaced Legion signs with electronic signs. Post 3 is remodeling with a Home Depot contract.

The 9th District reported that a highway in the district is being named The Vietnam Veterans Highway.

The 10th District reported they have a traveling plaque for flag folding.

11th District reported that they are expanding its presence on Twitter and Facebook.

The newsletters are due in to department no later than June 15, 2013.

HReligious EmphasisH The minutes from the MidWinter Conference were read and approved.

There was some discussion on the Fall Conference Religious Emphasis Program.

Chairman Keirn asked for volunteers to bring him ideas.

Chairman Keirn distributed copies and discussed the Chaplains Manual.

There was some discussion regarding SermonCentral.com for sermon ideas for funerals.

Chairman Harris suggested that we get information for funeral services from hymnals.

There was much discussion about Colorado and New Town services held relating to those tragedies.

There were no requests for department funds. There being no further business to be brought before the committee, the meeting was adjourned in proper form.

HL★ Find more at www.hoosierlegionnaire.org

Veterans Spotlight Continued from page 17 unless there is clear and convincing evidence establishing that the veteran is capable of actual employability. Clear and convincing evidence is a very high standard of proof.

Prior to any compensation rating reduction, VA must provide notification of the proposed reduction and 60 days to provide evidence and/ or argument as to why reduction should not take place. If timely requested, VA regulations require VA to schedule the veteran a hearing before reducing the rating. If a veteran receives a proposal to reduced letter from VA, the veteran should immediately request a hearing.

The veteran could then at least receive the current rating during the time it takes VA to schedule the hearing even if VA eventually justifies the rating reduction.

With any compensation reduction proposal, VA has the burden to prove improvement by preponderance of the evidence.

All veterans should seek professional advice and claims representation assistance by contacting their County or American Legion Department Veterans Service Office within a few days after receiving a VA rating reduction proposal notice. HL★

LEGION NEWS

Posts Must Retain Or Return All U.S. Army Equipment Frank Prosser Department Adjutant Missouri

guest editorial Editor’s Note: The following editorial by Frank Prosser emphasizes the importance for post officers to maintain accurate records for the loaned army surplus equipment that they have and to comply with the regulations set forth by TACOM. Failure to do this could lead to legal prosecution.

A

s we travel around our great state and visit our many American Legion Posts, we marvel at the static displays that adorn our Post homes and the Honor Guards that greet us and give honor to our fallen comrades upon their passing. These are things that we do and we are proud of our heritage and comradeship. These static displays and rifles that are used to honor our fallen do not belong to the Posts, but are loaned to us by the U.S. Army Donations Program that is administered through TACOM. It has come to our attention that a number of American Legion Posts are not complying with the rules and regulations set forth by Tank Automotive Command (TACOM) regarding loaned army surplus equipment, i.e. rifles, ammunition

and static displays. We have been advised that some Posts are selling and/or giving away army surplus equipment that was loaned to them instead of returning this equipment to TACOM. Please be advised that it is a federal violation and subject to legal prosecution if army weapons and/or army static assets currently logged into the possession of American Legion Posts are lost, transferred, given away, sold or used in any unauthorized manner.

Additionally, our organization could be banned from participating in the ‘Military Funeral Honors Program.’ Actions and violations such as these make it hard on those Legionnaires who volunteer their time and put forth such great effort to ensure that our fallen veterans have representation at military funerals. The Army Donations

Program Office has made several attempts to work with these noncompliant Posts and their representatives to obtain required paperwork concerning army property. Unfortunately, some Posts may not be clear on the procedures to be followed. Those Posts in violation of these procedures will not receive additional/replacement rifles or assets for static display.

In addition, these Posts’ future requests for ammunition will not be honored.

A listing has been compiled of Legion Posts that have been disqualified from participating in the Army Ceremonial Rifle and/or Static Display Program due to their lack of cooperation or non-compliance with the laws and regulations governing these U.S. Army programs. You will be notified if you are on this list. The policies and procedures

for Acquisition of Static Display Military Equipment and Rifles etc. are contained in The Officers Guide and Manual of Ceremonies that your post receives every year, in the packet with your new membership cards.

Please take the time to read the section under Rifles and the paragraphs following (pages 156-158). This is very important information and will give you the procedure needed to request and return this military equipment. These items cannot simply be transferred from post to post, they must be returned, to TACOM and reissued. This is a program that has served our organization well and we need to safeguard its integrity.

I thank you for your attention and for ensuring that we all are compliant with the legal regulations set forth. ★ HL

Legion’s TFA Program Provides Needed Grants

T

he American Legion’s Temporary Financial Assistance Program (TFA) has continued, since 1925, to provide for the basic needs of minor children of eligible veterans through cash grants made possible by the generosity of Legionnaires and the Endowment Fund Corporation. From the beginning of the current year to of April 15, TFA has assisted over 285 children throughout the United States to maintain shelter, utilities, food and clothing through nearly $166,460 in cash grants. Of that, the Department of Indiana has processed more than 20 approved applica-

tions to the tune of over $29,800, which puts it at the top of the approved applications listing as compared with other departments.

TFA is limited to minor children (17 years or younger) whose biological parent, or legal guardian, is a veteran and is, or would have been, eligible for American Legion membership.

However, Legion membership is not required. Children 1820 years old will also be considered if a current disability requires special schooling or indefinite in-home care, or they are enrolled in an approved high school and unmarried. To be

eligible for Legion membership, the parent or guardian must have served at least one day of active duty in the Armed Forces of the United States during one of the following periods: • Dec. 7, 1941-Dec. 31, 1946 • June 25, 1950-Jan. 31, 1955 • Feb. 28, 1961-May 7, 1975 • August 24, 1982-July 31, 1984 • Dec. 20, 1989-Jan. 31, 1990 • Aug. 2, 1990-Cessation of hostilities as determined by the U.S. Government.

No child is considered eli-

gible for Temporary Financial Assistance until a complete investigation is conducted at the post or department level; a legitimate family need is determined; and all other available assistance resources have been utilized or exhausted. Additionally, and very importantly, the TFA application must originate and be filled out by someone at the local level.

However, TFA applications are oftentimes submitted incomplete to American Legion National Headquarters via the department, causing a delay in the funding process or even denial. Therefore, during the

Legion’s recent fifth annual Children & Youth Conference in Indianapolis, a number of items to remember when filling out the application were mentioned to avoid any conflicts. Among those problems causing delays were missing signatures, leaving some questions unanswered, or a failure to fully note other financial assistance. Every application is review at national headquarters immediately and, when approved, a payment is forthcoming within a few days.

But the key to this total operation is the initial work at the post level. HL★

hoosier legionnaire | APRIL/MAY 2013 | 21

LEGION NEWS

District 10

Ask Aubrey

Continued from page 19

Continued from page 14

American Legion rides for the summer, June 21-23, 2013 at the Fortville American Legion Park for the American Legion Riders State Rally and the Legacy Run to Houston, Texas on 18 August, starting from Post 64 in Indianapolis. Be careful and be safe out there.

When I awoke this morning, it looked like spring in Indiana.

With that, I trust that it is and close this article and await the warmth. Get out there and sign up those new members as we have generally picked up all our present ones. If not, go out to their residence and knock.

delegate is added when the membership total hits the -501 mark; i.e. 501 members equals 1 delegate, 1,501 equals two delegates, 2,501 equals three delegates, and so on. Your district, with a total membership of 8,914, would be entitled to nine delegates.

Alternates are allotted by the same procedure.

HL★

Dear Aubrey Our Post has already renewed every member on our roster, but we still haven’t reached 100% of our goal.

Why? Under Achiever

Just because you’ve renewed each member on your roster, doesn’t mean that you’re at 100%. Each year, the district sets a goal for your post. The purpose of that goal is to help your post grow. The idea is that you will not only renew each member from last year, but recruit new members as well to help attain that goal.

I suggest reaching out to nearby colleges or military posts, like Camp Atterbury or the Air National Guard bases.

Those types of places have many veterans and/or active duty service men and women who may be interested in joining The American Legion.

Inform them about the Four Pillars of The American Legion.

Show them what we have to offer them and their families.

HL★

District 1 Continued from page 16 and Girls State and applying for HSB scholarships for programs like the Oratorical Contest, Boy and Girl Scout of the year, Legacy Fund, American Legion Baseball scholarship, and nursing scholarships.

Past First District Commander and Northern Vice Commander John Wrolen passed away on March 18, 2013. We all miss his help. He

Adjutant’s Desk Continued from page 2

NEC Continued from page 3 there to protect our perimeter.

On this day we were going to make sure that access to quality mental health was going to be available to our returning service members from Iran and Afghanistan with TBI and PTSD, make sure there are no further increases in TRICARE fees, continue to push for changes in VA claim process to make sure done right the first time eliminating long delays, and the repeal of the Disable Veterans Tax/Widows Tax. This message was delivered to all our elected officials by the membership. We must always be ready and prepared to protect our perimeter.

Well said Paul. From both of your “Red Caps”, we hope that you all had a pleasant Easter Holiday and thank you again for all that you do for our veterans.

Auxiliary News Continued from page 4 We are looking forward to the Legion’s close of books day on June 9 at the Indiana Veterans’ Home. Everyone has a fun time that day. Girls and Boys State are also in June. We are looking forward to our first

americanism

year at Trine University.

There are only 3½ more months in this Auxiliary year but much work still to do. We are busy working very hard on all our programs as well as getting end-of-the-year reports ready for convention in July. There are still a few more months to see the purple shirts running around as we ‘Read to Learn More About Serving our Veterans.’ God Bless us all. HL★

were made a matter of record.

There was no motion made dealing with department funds.

Continued from page 9 There being no further business to come before the comDale, Detachment Sgt.-At-Arms mittee, the meeting was adAndrew J. Byers, and Southern journed in proper form.

HL★ Vice Commander David A. ★ Mummert. These resolutions HL Find more at www.hoosierlegionnaire.org

HL★

22 | APRIL/MAY 2013 | hoosier legionnaire

would welcome resume’s from members and others with the requisite skills and education.

If you would like to have a copy of the job description, let me know and I will email one to you. (hdagley@indlegion.org).

“Designated Hitter for Indiana’s Veterans” The Department of Indiana is beginning a marketing and advertising campaign based on American Legion Baseball among the state’s minor league teams.

So far, the majority of the program’s development has centered on the Indianapolis Indians, in a strategy that in-

was a mentor to many, helpful to all and active in the Legion and Sons of The American Legion until his end.

If anyone has questions about membership, give me or one of the vice commanders a call. Their numbers and assigned posts were listed in my last column. If you don’t have a copy, my number at home is 219-931-5960. My number at work is 219-989-3300 ext 156.

My cell phone number is 219413-8571. My email address is mjwooden@comcast.net.

HL★

cludes 288 game-time radio announcements, radio interviews with prominent Legion leaders, appearances by Legion team champions, signage throughout Victory Field, and ticket incentives for members and sponsored groups. The tagline for this initiative is ‘The American Legion: Designated Hitter for Indiana’s Veterans.’

We will keep you updated as the season unfolds and more opportunities present themselves. Meantime, we will begin to open discussions with minor league teams in Evansville, Gary, and Ft. Wayne.

Advertising and promotion is not free, but no Department operating funds have been diverted to this project. Assets recovered from posts whose charters were cancelled will cover these expenses. ★ HL

LEGION NEWS

District 8 Continued from page 18 not change the fact that people act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing that we can do is play to the one strength that we can control, and that is our attitude.

I am convinced that life is 10% of what happens to me and 90% of how I react to it. And so, just as it is with you, we are in charge of our attitudes.

I have issues during my own post meetings. I’m going to make copies of this quote and keep it with me. Maybe it will remind me of the importance of my own attitude.

I do want to make known an error in the immediate past Hoosier Legionnaire article that was published in March/February. The winner of the $3000 Department Raffle was Louis Kern from St Meinrad Post 366 not Post 124 of Ferdinand. Sorry for the mistake.

I want to remind the 8th District on the Homecoming honoring National Commander Jim Koutz event scheduled on

May the 10th thru May 11th, 2013. RSVP’s forms have been sent to all posts and post commanders. The deadline is April 25, 2013. This is an event that we will probably never have the opportunity to attend again in our lifetime. It’s also a great opportunity to show our respect towards our home grown National Commander, a true Indiana native. Contact Ron Byrley for further details at 812 760-8281 or rbyrley@gmail. com. Additional information will also be available during the Spring Conference.

My tenure as commander is coming to a close. Let’s go out with a bang and sit upfront during our department convention. Thanks for supporting me and your District Leadership Team.

Dave Sharber reports: Dave Bryant of Post 35 in Jeffersonville asked me to share an 8th District congratulations with Rebecca Woolsey of Ridgeway Academy for winning the 8th District Americanism and Government Test Program. I know her sponsor, Post 35, is proud of her. They are also very proud of their new post home

which was recently dedicated.

There is a lot of rebirth and revitalization in the 8th District.

There are many incidents of our post homes expanding, rebuilding and remodeling. Posts like Tennyson Post 463 have come back from the brink of extinction and are growing in membership and community involvement. It’s hard to say which comes first, the involvement or the membership. It’s kind of like the chicken or the egg thing. Both are very important and each feeds on the other.

I really believe we are going to see spring and summer. With the warmer weather comes so many chances for us to shine in our communities with our participation in city projects, parades, food booths at local festivals and, of course, baseball. These and other events are excellent opportunities for us to show our neighbors a good positive side of The American Legion.

As I write this segment, I must brag on my on post, Post 5, in Mt. Vernon. This year we have purchased a 15-passenger bus for our honor guard (we have

already heard all the short bus jokes). We are in the process of setting the pole and preparing it to receive our new post marque sign with electronic message board. And last, but far from least, we are undergoing a major renovation courtesy of Home Depot Foundation and Team Depot. On April 4th we are told to get ready for 40 Home Depot volunteers to show up and start replacing ceiling, painting walls, installing flooring and doing many other improvements.

What a wonderful thing and what a great group.

I need your input for the 8th District articles going into The Hoosier Legionnaire. In that way, you won’t have to read much of my ramblings. If your post or someone in your post does something newsworthy, please send it to me, Dave Sharber, by e-mail to wobegone@att. net or by mail at P.O. Box 493 in Mt. Vernon, IN 47620. We need newsworthy Legion, veteran and community-related information. Be proud of your post and your Legion Family. Share what they are doing. No gossip please, just news. HL★

Army Continued from page 14 Post 0404, Prairie Creek Post 0410, Whitestown Post 0426, Pittsboro

District 7 Post 0051, Owensville Post 0103, Mooresville Post 0141, Coal City Post 0416, Trafalgar Post 0462, Somerville

District 8 Post 0035, Jeffersonville Post 0042, Floyds Knobs Post 0044, Newburgh Post 0105, Henryville Post 0115, Winslow Post 0187, Evansville Post 0366, St. Meinrad Post 0444, Dale Post 0463, Tennyson

District 9 Post 0059, Rising Sun Post 0069, Orleans Post 0195, Campbellsburg Post 0203, Pekin Post 0452, New Alsace

District 10

District 9 Continued from page 18 there is a LVER available to assist Veterans and their families. A LVER (Local Veteran Employment Representative) will be at the post one day a week, every other week, to assist veterans and their families with the same services provided at the local WorkOne offices. This, hopefully, will help alleviate long travel

time, long wait time and still give the veteran that priority in service that is always provided by this agency. The weeks that the LVER is not at the post, an employment specialist is there to assist the same as if you were at the local office. Also WorkOne has provided a computer station to file your unemployment claim or even for you to undertake a job search. This station is available all open hours of the post.

This is a pilot program with

the hope that this will prove to be a valuable endeavor. We may be able to set up other stations at other posts for the convenience of our veterans and their families. So those that are close to Post 59, Rising Sun, please visit and see if there is something they can help you with.

Just a reminder that the WorkOne offices around the state are not just for unemployment assistance. They offer a multitude of services. They have specialists to assist in career

advice all the way to schooling options. This agency is very veteran-friendly and a good source for advice and assistance.

With all that, I hope everyone has a great spring and I hope to see many new faces at the district meetings. Also, I would like to thank all the district officers for being there to help me out.

And a big “Thank You” to all the great veterans of this American Legion. HL★

Post 0134, Westport Post 0158, Union City Post 0167, Albany Post 0182, New Palestine Post 0287, Centerville Post 0359, Richmond

District 11 Post 0056, Police Post 0300, Indianapolis Power & Light Post 0311, I.N.V.E.T. Post 0360, University Veterans Post 0510, Frank E. McKinney, Sr. HL★

hoosier legionnaire | APRIL/MAY 2013 | 23

The Hoosier Legionnaire • April/May 2013

In this issue

of the Hoosier Legionnaire Spring Conference................ 1 Resolution Activity................ 2 Gold Star Families................ 3 Call of the Convention........... 5 Commander’s Project............ 6 Commission Reports............. 7 Compensation Ratings........ 11 Conference Highlights......... 12 Membership....................... 14 District News...................... 16 Army Equipment................. 21