2013 February/March The Hoosier Legionnaire

The Hoosier Legionnaire The Hoosier Legionnaire

VA Eliminates Annual Eligibility Verification Report

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recently announced that veterans will no longer have to complete an annual Eligibility Verification Report (EVR). This elimination will allow more than 100 VA staff members to focus their attention on the compensation claims backlog.

Completion of an EVR has been required annually of beneficiaries to ensure pension benefits are received. Now, VA will work with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Social Security Administration (SSA) to verify continued eligibility for pension benefits.

The American Legion applauds the interagency collaboration to reduce the time and processing of veterans claims.

“As the backlog for veterans claims rapidly increases, any news to assist in the reduction of the backlog is welcome,” said Zach Hearn, national appeals representative for The American Legion Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Division. “The statement released by VA encourages a partnership with various government agencies that should not only reduce the burden of veterans receiving VA pensions but also assist in allowing VA to focus on disability claims.”

Additionally, both the SSA and IRS appear to be pleased with the partnership.

“Having already instituted an expedited process that enables wounded warriors to quickly access Social Security disability benefits, we are proud to work with our federal partners on an automated process that will make it much easier for qualified veterans to maintain their VA benefits from year to year,” said Michael J. Astrue, commissioner of Social Security.

“The IRS is taking new steps to provide critical data to help speed the benefits process for the nation’s veterans and VA,” said Beth Tucker, IRS deputy commissioner for operations support. “The IRS is pleased to be part of a partnership with VA and SSA that will provide needed data quickly and effectively to move this effort forward.”

VA will send letters to beneficiaries who currently receive pensions to explain the changes and provides instructions on how to continue to submit unreimbursed medical expenses.

www.benefits.va.gov/pension

Leading Candidate For National Commander To Be Featured Speaker At Spring Conference

The leading candidate for National Commander, Dan Dellinger from the Department of Virginia, will be the keynote speaker at the 2013 Joint Conference of The American Legion, Department of Indiana, and the Indiana American Legion Auxiliary.

The conference is scheduled for April 5-7, 2013, at the Indianapolis Marriott Hotel East, 7202 East 21st Street in Indianapolis. Housing reservations for the conference are now being accepted.

In addition to the leading candidate, representatives from the Indiana Attorney General’s office will participate in the conference to showcase the AG’s outreach efforts on behalf of Hoosier veterans. According to Sara Fleischhacker, Outreach Services Specialist in the AG’s Consumer Protection Division, veterans are increasingly the target of scams and exploitation, particularly in the area of earned benefits, legal representation and claims. The presentations are designed to equip members of The American Legion to guide and assist veterans in avoiding the scams and finding reliable advice and assistance.

A traditional highlight of the annual spring conference is the presentation of the Americanism and Government competition winners, six outstanding high school students who demonstrate exceptional knowledge of the American political and governmental systems. Each of our six state winners will receive a $1,000 scholarship and a certificate of appreciation from the Department. These young men and women, who have distinguished

themselves by finishing at the top of their grade on this year’s test, represent more than 20,000 Hoosier high school students who participated in the program this year.

The conference also will feature the full round of commission and committee meetings. The Department continues to fine tune the meeting schedule to allow for more efficient use of the available meeting space and the timely preparation of minutes and reports for presentation to the Department Executive Committee at its post-conference meeting.

A number of important issues are to be considered during the conference, including requirements for youth program volunteers’ background checks. The requirement, specifically aimed at American Legion Baseball initially, is, in the judgment of department leaders including the Department Judge Advocate, one that soon will confront all Legion youth programs. The discussions were started in the committee during the Mid-Winter Conference, and will continue through the spring.

Candidate Dellinger will be the guest at two receptions scheduled for Saturday afternoon during the conference. He will first meet with Department leaders, and then be available for conversation and photographs with all conference attendees.

Dellinger earned a degree in criminology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, and his eligibility for The American Legion by service as an infantry officer in the United States Army during the Vietnam War.

As an Infantry officer, he has been a member of The American Legion since 1982 and has spent the last 30 years serving Post 180 in Vienna, VA at all levels and remains active today, serving as the Post Judge Advocate and taking part in many fund-raising events. In 1990, Post 180 honored him with a Life Membership and in 1998, the Department of Virginia presented him with a PUFL membership.

Dellinger owned and operated a construction management/general contracting firm for twenty years, specializing in commercial, institutional and industrial construction and renovations. In addition, he owned a retail gift and antique store for ten years. Dan currently works for a general contracting firm in Falls Church, Virginia, as a Senior Project Manager specializing in church construction and renovation.

He is expected to speak on his theme for his year in office, ‘Building for Tomorrow – Today’.

Dan Dellinger, Leading Candidate For National Commander

Major Focus On Legislative Issues To Continue

Just under the deadline again this issue, but there’s so much news to share that it’s hard to pick a place to start or to end up. I’ve held back writing this in the hopes we’d have positive news on some legislative issues.

We’re really busy this year on the legislative front. The list of bills that affect veterans is extensive this year, and for the most part they’re positive bills and not the ‘take away’ variety that we’ve become accustomed to. Rather than take up space here in print with a detailed listing of what is on the table this year, I’ll refer you to our website’s legislative section (http://www. hoosierlegionnaire.org/index. php/personas1/legislators/. There you’ll find useful links, especially a new one to Russell

Richard A. Jewell DEPARTMENT COMMANDER

Silver’s page with the most upto-date information. Russell has offered his expertise in tracking the issues which frees me and the rest of the Legislative Committee to tackle the issues.

During the midwinter conference, our Legislative Committee passed three resolutions that, combined with previous legislative resolutions, gave us our marching orders to the State-

house. These resolutions will guide us as we focus The American Legion’s efforts on jobs for younger veterans, returning the excise tax abatement to Indiana’s poorer veterans that was administratively denied last year, and finally, our attempt to help Hoosier veterans be successful as they return and avail themselves of the GI Bill benefits they so richly deserve.

An issue was also raised just a week ago (on January 22) that we hadn’t planned for. HB 1387 was introduced. HB 1387 would require County Veteran Service Officers to become accredited. Presently in Indiana, we only have, I believe, two accredited CVSOs who work in conjunction with The American Legion Service Officers (as well as with

the VFW and DAV) to represent Indiana’s disabled veterans as they file claims with the VA. While the goals of HB 1387 are admirable and would provide better service to disabled Hoosier veterans, we feel that it falls far short of providing the necessary funds to train and equip our CVSO’s for accreditation. On Tuesday, January 29, I provided testimony to that viewpoint. HB 1378 was reported out of Committee with only $500.00 per county to implement. That is a cost of less than nine cents per Indiana veteran! There’s a reason that Indiana is 7th from the bottom in per capita return of VA benefits nationwide. We are one of only three states that does not have a state-run Veterans Service Agency that can

New Meaning For ‘New’ In The New Year

new faces and new procedures, along with a renewed commitment to the legislative process, ushered in the new year at the Department of Indiana.

Shortly after the Mid-Winter Conference, Department Commander Richard Jewell filled the long-vacant Assistant Adjutant position by appointing current staff member and Marine Corps veteran Buzz Smith to the office.

And, Mark Bernhardt, who has been a temporary employee tasked with reorganizing and upgrading the Department Finance Office, accepted an offer to become the Department’s permanent Comptroller and Finance Director, replacing the

previous Finance Director, Bernie Ashley. Both appointments were effective January 16, 2013, although Smith’s appointment as a Department Officer is probationary pending concurrence of the Department Executive Committee. That concurrence is required by the Department Constitution.

The staff and I look forward to

working with both of these men, and I know their contributions to your goals and aims as members of The American Legion, Department of Indiana will be valuable ones. When you have the opportunity, I hope you will take a moment to congratulate them on their appointments at your first opportunity.

Among the new procedures at the Department are several designed to provide better records management in the finance office, reduce banking costs, increase safeguards in the management of resources, and eliminate duplication of services.

High on the wish list for 2013 is improved communication via the internet and internet- based

social media such as Facebook, Twitter and others. For the past several years, the Department staff has struggled to master the technology and develop a useful and effective on-line communications program. It remains a work in progress, and the rapid evolution of technology certainly makes the task more difficult.

Meantime, many of our members have expressed frustration, annoyance and impatience over the state of the Department website and the pace of improvement. Absent a significant investment of both financial and time resources, the pace will not significantly increase. But a thoughtful look back will show that the Department has

represent veterans presenting claims to the VA.

In the coming weeks, we’ll also be testifying on a variety of issues. Please check often our website and Facebook pages for news. The opportunity to testify comes up rapidly and electronic media is the only way we can communicate to rally the troops when we need to.

We’re looking forward to the annual trip to Springfield, Illinois to the tomb of Abraham Lincoln. That is always a great opportunity for the department officers to get away for a couple of days and pay our respects to one of the greatest presidents our country has ever known. This year will be special since

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made significant strides in this direction, and we will continue to look for ways to meet your information needs more effectively and efficiently in the year to come. Your positive suggestions are welcomed.

Department Commander Richard Jewell has brought a new sense of urgency and commitment to the Department’s legislative activity. His is a frequent presence at the General Assembly and in hearings on issues of concern to Hoosier veterans. He showed ‘front and center’ at the inauguration of the Gov. Mike Pence, and has met several times with the newly appointed Director

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One Special Homecoming Surpasses All Others

in late May 1970, I was forced out of Vietnam with the Marine withdrawal. Since I had extended, I was one of the last ones to leave and saw our old positions taken over by the Army of the Republic of Vietnam and USA troops. I had sent some communications home to my parents that I would be returning, but had no definitive date to give. We flew, of course, to Okinawa (I was the only Marine on a flight with Air Force personnel) to reclaim our stored gear and be processed for a flight home. Since I had been in the Republic of Vietnam so long, they couldn’t find my gear and I was delayed until they located it with the gear of the deceased.

Now packaged, I boarded a flight to El Toro, CA. I experienced my first aggressive antiwar protesters there. It was a

Norris Keirn DEPARTMENT

painful experience. Tickets were routed to Fort Wayne and I left ASAP. I figured I would plan the last fifty miles to get home when I got there. In Fort Wayne, I grabbed my sea bag and hitched a ride to the small plane airport. We traveled in uniform back in those days to get a government flight rate. There I caught a ride to the Rochester airport. The pilot wanted to give me a free lift, but had to charge for changing his route by company policy. I was now about six miles from

home and decided to walk south to State Rd. 14 and thumb my way home. Interesting in those days, no one would pick up a Marine in uniform, and many buzzed by.

Finally, an older car spotted me and pulled over. It was Vance Lytle who worked with my dad. I had just missed my father by a few minutes. Vance took me home. When he pulled into the gravel driveway, he drove to the end to turn around as everyone did. My father said, “Who is that?” as my mother looked out the kitchen window and recognized Vance’s car. She said to my father (not seeing me on the other side), “Oh, it’s just Vance; go see what he wants.” My dad got to the back door, froze and keep repeating, “Oh my God… Oh my God!” Mom burst through the door past my dad to see what was going

on, saw me and jumped off the stoop into my arms as I dropped my sea bag to catch her.

This weekend, my baby is coming home from her overseas tour of duty. She left as a single PFC and is returning as a corporal with a corporal husband and a ten-month-old baby. Her husband served his tour in Afghanistan. Times have changed and communications have changed, but homecoming is still homecoming. Family is on the alert and we will have a gathering to welcome them home. Lisa and I are filled with pride and excitement.

It doesn’t matter what your war era is or the circumstances surrounding your homecoming. There is that one special one that surpasses all others and forms a sacred shrine in your memory. We veterans of Vietnam began saying “welcome home” to one

another, because on our return, only a few welcomed us. It has now become a traditional greeting of one veteran to another and is shared by a majority of patriotic Americans. It is a good feeling to share the greeting as well as to receive it.

In the back of my mind, I have a warm thought that when I die and I enter heaven, Dad will be at the back door and Mom will jump off the stoop again, to welcome me home. Hopefully, Lisa and I will be able to plant such a thought in our daughter’s mind and she will know that there is “No place like home”. For God and Country, The American Legion family welcomes all of our veterans home!

Jesus said… “ g o home to your friends, and tell them how much the lord has done for you, and what mercy he has shown you.” Mark 5:19 NRSV

A Diverse Organization Only Becomes Stronger

as many of you have, I spent the holidays enjoying my friends and family. I likewise enjoyed my travels, visits, and conversations with my Legion family across the state. I heard stories and saw examples of Legion posts in action in their communities. We are doing remarkable things out there. February is going to be a busy month as our department staff prepares for us to attend the Lincoln Pilgrimage in Springfield, Illinois and the Washington Conference in DC. During both of these important events, I will have an occasion to relay Hoosier regards to our own National Commander Jim

Koutz. Please don’t forget to include his Commander’s project in your fundraising plans. Comfort Wounded Warriors is a great project that is very much appreciated by our injured troops.

The American Legion birthday month of March isn’t far

away. If you have an event at which you would like to have Alternate NEC Paul Steward or myself attend, send us an email so we can get it on our calendars. That really goes for any event during the year. We really enjoy visiting posts and talking with our fellow veterans and their families.

I recently reread an article that reminded me that in 1919

The American Legion was founded on four pillars of a strong national security, veterans’ affairs, Americanism, and youth programs. Legionnaires work for the betterment of their communities through more than 14,000 posts across

the nation. As I have traveled our state, I have realized that we are continuing to achieve those ideals. Posts should be proud of their involvement and should also be proud of their patriotic leadership as they promote these programs in their communities. We should be gratified that as an organization, we are evolving by changing to meet the needs of current veterans, yet still maintaining our dedication to the four pillars.

The American Legion is more and more becoming a diverse organization. With more minority participation, varying cultures and the increased

leadership of women in our organization, we can do nothing less than grow stronger. Even with increased diversity, we have that one thing in common: we have all been yelled at by a drill instructor. That common bond of having served in the military is what brings our diversity together to serve our communities, our state and our nation, to be true to the four pillars.

I wish that I had the room in this column to tell readers about all the countless things that I have seen occur that were perpetuated by The American Legion Family. Truly, thanks for what you do.

ChAPlAiN ChAplAiN’S CORNER

W. Darrell Hansel

NATiONAl ExECuTivE COMMiTTEE NAtiONAl pERSpECtivE

LeGiON FAmiLy RepORTS

Sons Take Veterans Hunting

hello from the Sons of The American Legion, Detachment of Indiana.

I attended the November and January District SAL meetings in the 7th District. At those two meetings, they discussed one of their projects. This project is ‘Hunts for Heroes’. Being a hunter myself, this got my attention. Here is a group of guys and ladies that take time to assist disabled veterans. This last November they took four gentlemen on a deer hunt. It is great that our veterans got the opportunity to get back into the woods and enjoy a hobby that their disability or illness has taken away from them. This same group (Squadron 106 Worthington and 7th District members) is planning a spring turkey hunt for one veteran. There is also a fishing tournament being scheduled for 12 veterans in May. If this is something

that interests you, you may want to contact this group at http://huntsfor-heroes.org.

Also out of the 7th, SAL District Commander Rodger Brown and Adjutant Mark Tansel got all 25 squadrons to donate to the Commanders’ Project. Over $3000 was raised. I want to thank you for your effort and contribution to the Indiana Veterans Home motel renovation.

February, March and April have

The Hoosier Legionnaire The Hoosier Legionnaire

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

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Volume AG, Number 1 February/March 2013

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Fly Tying Helps Wounded Warriors

been busy months with the Oratorical Contest. February saw the zone competitions. Those dates were set by the host district. Those dates will be set by the host district. The state finals will be held at headquarters on March 10th. This is your chance to hear Indiana’s best as they talk about the United States Constitution and amendments. These students do an excellent job on their presentation. If you have never attended this Legion program, take the time and do so. This is one of my favorite programs and I look forward to attending the district, zone, state and national competition.

The Sons of The American Legion would like to wish The American Legion a happy 94th birthday. We thank you all for service to our country and your dedication to The American Legion and its programs.

While initially focusing on the military personnel in the Washington, DC area, Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing, Inc. has expanded nationwide and is offering its services and program to wounded active military personnel and disabled veterans in Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs hospitals throughout the country.

The Project’s program provides basic fly fishing, fly casting, fly tying and rod building classes, along with clinics for wounded and injured personnel ranging from beginners to those with prior fly fishing and tying experience who are adapting their skills to their new abilities. All fly fishing and tying equipment is provided to the participants at no cost. Fishing trips, both one day and multi-day are also provided at no cost to the participants. Project Healing Waters is unique in that our volunteers are teaching classes on an on-going, long term basis. It is much more than a one day fishing trip. For many participants, particularly

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The Auxiliary Is On The Move

now that we have all had time to relax and unwind with our families and friends over the holidays, I suppose it is time to get back to work on all our programs for the year. I enjoyed the festivities and fellowship at the Christmas parties and Mid-Winter Conference but now back to work.

I attended four gift wraps and a Christmas Party at the various VAMCs around the state during December. The officers met at Mid-winter to discuss plans for hiring our new department secretary/treasurer. Several of us attended the cold inauguration of Indiana’s new governor in January and helped celebrate the 75th Anniversary of Tillman

H. Harpole Post 249.

The ladies of the Auxiliary have really been busy collecting membership already this year. Watch out, Legion; the Auxiliary is on the move. We are also still doing well with donations for the Motel Project at Indiana Veterans Home.

We are now looking forward to more of our district visita -

tions, the trip to Springfield, Illinois for the Lincoln Pilgrimage, the trip to Washington D.C. for the National Assembly, and the trip to the Hill to visit our legislators. Of course, all of that will be closely followed by visits to various Legion posts around the state for Legion birthday dinners. Then we will all be together again for the joint spring conference in April. Yes, I believe we have enough to keep us busy for the next several months. I look forward to seeing and talking to many of you at these events.

God Bless us all as we go about our tasks of serving our veterans, our children and our communities, and God Bless and watch over America.

Nancy

Commander Jewell Focuses On Legislative Agenda

Commander jewell testifies in Support of Senate Bill 0271

Commander Dick jewell testified in front of the Commerce, Economic Development & technology Committee concerning Senate Bill 0271. legionnaires should become aware of such issues that are debated in such committees. Not only might future legislation affect their posts in significant ways, but matters of veterans’ benefits, educational opportunities, and employment issues impact most indiana citizens in one way or another.

Commander jewell has prioritized the study and, when appropriate, the support of a number of bills that will positively affect the veteran community and has been busy testifying at a number of hearings at house and Senate committees.

Commander Jewell has prioritized for his year in office the study and the support, when appropriate, of a number of bills in the Indiana General Assembly that will positively affect the veteran community. On February 4, he testified in front of the Commerce, Economic Development & Technology Committee concerning Senate Bill 0271. If adopted, this law would authorize a state agency to identify a particular purchase of supplies or services as a set-aside for which offers will be accepted only from veteran-owned small businesses.

Another issue for consideration is House Bill 1486 that

District Leaders Rewarded For Post Visits

as in previous years, the District Commander Post Visitation Award is an incentive for personal visits to posts by district commanders and vice commanders. The desired result is a personal visit to each post in a given district by either the district commander or, in bigger districts, one of the district vice commanders. Personal contact at this level sets the example for post membership workers to make the personal contacts necessary for a successful membership program.

To qualify for the award, the district commander and/or vice commanders must visit each post in the district during their year. For districts with more than 30 posts, the district vice commanders can assist in making visits, but the district

commander must visit at least 30 of the posts personally.

Each district commander who achieves the 100 percent visit requirement will receive a certificate recognizing the achievement. There are five categories of recognition and five additional prizes awarded based on a drawing of the eligible district commanders in each category. Post leadership should encourage your district commanders to participate.

For further details to this incentive award program, visit the following link: http://www.hoosierlegionnaire.org/index.php/department/activity/membership/ and click on ‘Post Visitation Award Guidelines.’ Or contact your membership office at department headquarters. HLH

would amend the Indiana Code (Chapter 11. Licensure of Individuals with Military Training) and, if adopted, will provide that the Emergency Medical Services Commission would issue a license or certificate to a military service applicant who meets certain requirements. It also will allow the commission to issue a temporary practice certificate or provisional license while the military service applicant is satisfying certain requirements as determined by the commission.

Senate Bill 177 will provide that qualified veterans are eligible for the resident tuition rate for undergraduate courses upon enrolling in a state educational institution not later

than 12 months after discharge or separation from the United States armed forces. There are certain requirements for the veteran to qualify.

Concurrent resolution SCR 17 urges the Indiana Department of Transportation to name any part of Interstate 69 south of Interstate 465 the Iraq Afghanistan Veterans Memorial Highway.

On behalf of pendleton post 608, Commander jewell presents a check of $614.00 to Debra Des v ignes, v ice president of Marketing, Communications, pR, the hoosier veterans Assistance Foundation. hvAF’s mission is to improve the lives of homeless veterans by providing supportive housing and services that empower veterans. post 608 is one of four legion posts within a correctional facility in indiana.

Donation to hoosier veterans Assistance Foundation

DepARTmeNT NeWS

Ferdinand Legionnaire Takes Top Prize In Sweepstakes

louis A. Kern, Ferdinand, a Vietnam veteran and six-year member of The American Legion at St. Meinrad Post 366, has won the $3,000 grand prize in The American Legion, Department of Indiana’s 2013 MidWinter Sweepstakes.

His award was presented in the form of a ceremonial check by Indiana Department Commander Richard A. Jewell during a special presentation at American Legion Post 124 in Ferdinand. Commander Jewell was joined in the presentation by the Legion’s 8th District Commander Daniel Lawson, Jasper, and Post 124 Commander Kenneth Fischer.

Kern’s was the top prize among 21 cash awards selected by random drawing during the Indiana American Legion’s recent Mid-Winter Conference in Indianapolis. The Mid-Winter Sweepstakes is one of two annual fundraisers conducted by the Department of Indiana to offset operating expenses and support the Legion’s youth and community programs.

The sweepstakes are conducted in compliance with State of Indiana Chari-

table Gaming license and procedural rules and regulations, as well all United States Postal Service regulations governing the use of the mail to distribute sweepstakes tickets. Most significant of these is the absence of any requirement for contributions or payments in order to participate in the sweepstakes.

According to Sherry Suggs, Manager of Mailing Standards for the USPS, “…a

nonprofit organization that designs a raffle where it is clear that a donation is not required to participate in the raffle may use the mail to distribute the tickets for that raffle.”

The Legion’s 2013 Convention Sweepstakes is scheduled for July 2013. These drawings occur twice a year, with a total prize amount at each drawing of $9,000.

Army Seeks Qualified Medical Personnel

Dear Editor:

I am the 3rd Medical Recruiting Battalion Commander, stationed out of Fort Knox Kentucky. Our Battalion covers a 444,000, 9 state (ND, SD, IN, KY, WI, MI, OH, IL, MN) area of operations with 80 on production AGR and RA Recruiters. Our mission is to recruit the future heroes and leaders of Army Medicine. We have an Army Reserve and Regular Army recruiting mission consisting of 74 commissioned medical specialties, including Doctors,

Dentists, Nurses, Veterinarians and a variety of Specialist and Medical service Corps officers. With such a large geographically dispersed area of operation and relatively small number of recruiting personnel, we ask your assistance in helping us

to increase public awareness of the need for the very best health care professionals in the Army Reserve and Regular Army forces.

We are looking for innovative opportunities for our recruiters and subject matter experts/

Following is a list of names of those lucky enough to win a prize.

Louis A. Kern Ferdinand, IN

Carl Shoudel Fort Wayne, IN

Ernest H. Smith Franklin, IN

Jeffery L. Czerniak Highland, IN

Raymond E. Ginn Brownsburg, IN

Earl F. Mosely East Chicago, IN

Larry Danner Kendallville, IN

Jack Tracer Newburgh, IN

Rick Dunn Richmond, IN

Robert Love Wabash, IN

Ralph Bailey Columbia City, IN

Allan W. Taylor Clinton, IN

Van T. Wright Stinesville, IN

William B. Winkler Danville, IN

Glenn H. Voirol Fort Wayne, IN

Miguel A. Gomez Gary, IN

Danny L. Bickel Huntington, IN

Coleman LaMaster Montgomery, TX

William L. Seidel Fort Wayne, IN

Billy W. Kingery Fortville, IN

James Oliver San Pierre, IN

centers of influences to tell their Army stories to large groups of health care professional and pre professional students and practicing providers, as well as community leaders/COIs/combat multipliers who can also help us to get our message out. We have formed many synergistic partnerships throughout our footprint with TPUs, ROTC, NPS recruiting, Universities, Hospitals and Residencies, etc... but are constantly in search of additional organizations and partners who can join our very

important mission of keeping our Army Strong.

Our top national targeted areas of concentration that we could use the most help reach are medical and dental school students (for Army scholarship opportunities), practicing Pediatricians for the RA, Psychiatrists, Internal Medicine Doctors, Family Practice Doctors, General Surgeons, Orthopedic Surgeons for the Army Reserve, Emergency Medicine Doctors,

Continued on page 22

Louis Kern, First Prize Winner of Sweepstakes.

Editor: The following letter highlights career opportunities in our military services. In this case, not only does this help Army recruiting, but it also may benefit our young men and women seeking employment who may have the skills. And new recruits may further benefit in additional advanced training at the expense of DoD.

COmmiSSiON RepORTS

HBASEBAll ExECutivE COMMittEEH

There were six members present, three absent, and no guests.

Chairman Wells handed out the risk management policy. Background checks will cost $8.00 per coach. Any volunteer coming in direct contact with players must undergo a background check. Background checks will be performed once a team has registered. If a background check comes back as accepted, but with conditions, a committee of three will review. The committee will consist of Owen Wells, Joe Bumbleburg, and Dean Colvin. The Department of Indiana will pay for the background checks for the first five volunteers for each team for the first year.

Chairman Wells announced that the Arlie Shelton Award winner is Randy Dooley.

Chairman Wells announced that Terre Haute will be hosting the National Regional Tournament.

There were no motions made dealing with department funds.

HBASEBAll COMMittEEH

There were 16 members present, seven absent, and 14 guests. The 4th District and the 8th District were not represented.

Chairman Wells discussed the new background check rules. There will be a committee consisting of three men, Owen Wells, Joe Bumbleburg, and Dean Colvin.

Chairman Wells discussed the tournament state bid fee and travel money, specifically for the regional tournament.

Chairman Wells reported that the state tournament bid for $4,000.00 was received. The deadline to receive bids is Spring Conference.

A motion was made to send a request to each district for $200.00. Motion was approved.

Chairman Wells announced the regional bids: Lafayette, Crawfordsville, Terre Haute, Plymouth, and Rockport. The state bids were also announced: Rockport.

Chairman Wells discussed the importance of the Form No.2 (Player Indemnification Agreement) and the 2ts. The insurance will cost the same for 2013.

A motion was made for Jim Treadway to seek a corporate sponsor for the State Tournament. Motion was approved. The committee requests to meet two hours in the afternoon at Spring Conference.

There were no motions made dealing with department funds.

HBOwliNG COMMittEEH

The Bowling Committee did not meet at the 2013 Midwinter Conference.

HGOlF COMMittEEH

The Golf Committee did not meet at the 2013 Midwinter Conference.

HNSFA COMMittEEH

There were 14 members present, four absent, and three guests. 2nd District was not represented.

Minutes from the previous meeting were read and approved.

Guest speaker Lt. Col. Eric Honaker from Martinsville, Indiana, addressed the committee.

Chairman Steinhardt distributed the binders for the Military Person of the Year Award for reserve, active, and National Guard categories.

The committee would like to meet at the spring conference.

There were no motions made dealing with department funds.

HpOw/MiA COMMittEEH

There were ten members present, 12 absent, and four guests. Districts 3, 5, 9,

Continued on page 9

HAMERiCAN lEGiON ChilDREN’S EDuCAtiON & wElFARE COMMittEEH

Roll call disclosed the following: 21 members present, three members absent, all districts represented. There were three guests present.

Minutes were read and approved. Tony Riley presented the finance report: general fund $113,637.54, scholarship $132,331.00, and foundation $84,112.00. A motion was made by 2nd Vice Chairman Mike Brady to approve reimbursement to the 8th District for $500.00 for assistance to a member with a mentally challenged son in his care. The motion was seconded and passed. At the spring conference, the slate for 2013-2014 officers will be announced. At the Department Executive Committee meeting with the concurrence of the Commission Chairman Nicholoff, the Department Finance Officer and Treasurer of The American Legion Children’s Education & Welfare Committee, Tony Riley, made an amendment to the minutes to approve an application from the 6th District Post 72 for $300.

HAMERiCAN lEGiON FAMily SChOlARShip COMMittEEH

Roll call disclosed the following: 13 members present, three members absent, the 1st District and the 5th District were not represented. There were five guests present.

Minutes were read and approved. The discussion centered on the possibility of raising the scholarship dollar amount. A motion was made by 4th District Chairman Oscar Lopez to increase the amount to $1500 each for five recipients. The motion was seconded and approved. The committee agreed with the national organization resolution to do background checks. Past Department Commander Miller recognized and thanked The American Legion Riders for a $1000 donation. The committee would like to meet in the Patriot Boardroom at 10:00 a.m. at the spring conference. John Lloyd, Coleman Sumrall, Oscar Lopez, John Beebe and Dave Espich will judge the applications.

HAMERiCANiSM & GOvERNMENt COMMittEEH

Roll call disclosed the following: 13 members present, three members absent, the 10th District was not represented. There were six guests present.

Minutes of the fall 2012 conference were read and approved. The tie for the 11th grade boy winner was resolved. The following students were announced as the Americanism and Government program winners: Taylor Downs sponsored by Post 263 in the 6th District attends North Vermillion High School, Jonathan Flanary sponsored by Post 263 in the 6th District attends North Vermillion High School, Laura Fultz sponsored by Post 263 in the 6th District attends North Vermillion High School, Jordan West sponsored by Post 263 in the 6th District attends North Vermillion High School, Kaitlyn Thompson sponsored by Post 250 in the 9th District attends Mitchell High School and Alec Fowler sponsored by Post 66 in the 1st District attends Griffith High School. A motion was made by 1st District Chairman Franklin to request funding one boy and one girl Junior Americanism and Government state winner to receive $25 each. The motion was seconded by District Chairman Honaker and passed.

Risk management policies were presented with respect to Legion programs and areas of initial implementation discussed. Efforts are ongoing to align test questions with state curriculum programs and seek greater participation through parochial, private, and home schools. A prayer was given for John Wrolen’s health to improve.

Continued on page 9

Nicholas Nicholoff ChAiRMAN

ChilDREN & yOuth

James may ChAiRMAN

AMERiCANiSM

COmmiSSiON RepORTS

HEMplOyMENt COMMittEEH

The Employment Committee met at 8:00 a.m. Saturday, January 12, 2013, in Salon B of the Marriott Hotel during the Mid-Winter Conference. There were 10 members present, nine members absent, and three guests present. There was a motion made to support Employer of Veterans Award Large (201 or more) Raytheon Tech Services Company. The motion was made by Ed Headley, 2nd by John Villegas. The motion was carried by those present.

HGENERAl hOSpitAl COMMittEEH

The General Hospital Committee met at 10:00 a.m. on January 12, 2013 in Salons 2-3 of the Marriott Hotel during the midwinter conference. There were 25 members present, 20 members absent. All districts were represented. Budget accounts were handed out. There were discussions on spending, fundraising. Requests for donations were examined. A district round was implemented with sharing of district reports. There were no motions made or funds requested. There being no further business to come before the committee, the meeting was adjourned in proper form.

HhOMElESS vEtERANS COMMittEEH

The Homeless Veterans Committee met at 12:00 p.m., Saturday, January 12, 2013, in Salon D of the Marriott Hotel during the midwinter conference. There were 12 members present, five members absent, and three guests present. The minutes of the previous meeting were read. Corrections were made. Commander Kumfer of Post 499 gave $4,000. The 4th District donated $1,000. The American Legion Riders also donated $1,000. The check from Don Sales presented at the fall conference has not cleared through post bank.

Old business: Harry Ray Post 65 Resolution. Don Sales says homeless

REhABilitAtiON

shelter at St. Marks has a problem. They need bathrooms in each room. They were denied a grant, and need bathrooms before grant is approved. There is a possibility it will have to close. Don Sales will get more information. The motion for this resolution was from Anthony Sadowski, and was seconded by Jim Hamilton. There was a vote and the resolution was passed.

Don Sales read a letter that he received from Veterans Life Changing Services. There was a discussion on the accuracy of this letter. There was a discussion regarding Indiana Veterans Home and the fact that it doesn’t accommodate families. Barb Sales informed the home in Gary does have housing for families and works with them. Jim Hamilton commented that they have placed eight persons in home in 4th district.

Robbie Robinson commented that there is no finance report in packet, and will find out why.

Joe Kosiak presented information from a letter from the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. There was a discussion regarding this letter.

Joe Kosiak mentioned that Judge Jent in Porter is helping to get veterans in trouble into housing, school, and not just to jail. He would like to get a subcommittee within The American Legion, and was directed to Marty. There were no funds requested.

HiNDiANA vEtERANS hOME COMMittEEH

The IndianaVeterans Home Committee met at 1:00 PM, Saturday, January 12,

Continued on page 20

HAMERiCAN lEGiON RiDERSH

Chairman Small informed the Committee that only one consolidated report was turned in at this time.

Constitution and By-Law changes were presented for forwarding to department for approval.

Rider of the Year Award nominations are due by the Joint Spring Conference in April.

1st District Commander Mike Wooden will be the new 1st District chairman and stated he will work on better communication between the Legion and the Riders in the 1st District.

2nd District reported that the South Haven Post 502 has been donating funds to the Indiana Veterans Home. Last year, $2,000.00 was donated.

3rd District, no report.

4th District reported that its main project is homeless veterans. With help from the VA, 11 veterans now have a home of their own. A donation of $500.00 is given monthly to the VA through volunteer workers who purchase food chip, bus passes, McDowell pass and IHOP. The 4th has donated through Hometown Heroes and VA, over $26,000.00.

5th District, no report.

6th District, no report.

7th District reported they will be holding the state rally this year. They have a lot planned and challenge all other chapters in the state in rallying at the rally.

8th District reported they are working with Lucas Place on building new homes for veterans.

9th District, no report.

10th District reported that Post 70 is planning an April ride and blessing the bikes.

11th District reported that they are raising funds for the police department to help with K-9 training. They have been working downtown veteran food centers and helping with Toys for Tots.

Commander’s Rep. Jim Hamilton thanked the Richmond chapter for its help visiting the nursing homes to talk with veterans and tending to their needs.

Chairman Small reminded all that we are Legionnaires first and Riders

second. He asked they all pass that along to their chapters.

There was no further business to be brought before the committee. There were no requests for Department Funds.

HCOMMuNity iNvOlvEMENtH

The minutes from the fall conference were approved as read with correction.

There was a motion to accept the Rules of Disbursement. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.

Districts are to make copies of applications and to give those to the posts. There was a motion made to have applications and rules put online for members to download.

Chairman Baggett asked for each district reports. Each district gave their report.

There was a brief discussion regarding just how much our local communities know what we do and some ways to get the word out.

Gordon Anthony will put on a presentation for Community Emergency Response Team.

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

HCONvENtiON CONtEStH

The minutes from the Fall Conference were read and approved.

There was some discussion regarding last year’s national contest.

Post 495 will host the 2013 contest. 2nd District Chairman Chip Yanta volunteered to be a judge. There was a brief discussion regarding this year’s contest.

Continued on page 21

Larry Lowry ChAiRMAN

iNtERNAl AFFAiRS

Jerome maune ChAiRMAN

Due to space constraints, these commission and committee reports have been condensed. You can find the full text of all conference reports at www.hoosierlegionnaire.org or request print copies from Department headquarters. HLH

AMERiCANiSM

Continued from page 7

10, and 11 were not represented.

Minutes from the previous meeting were read. Amend that 11th District Chairman Ed Harris was present at Fall Conference.

Chairman Macy explained that the DPMO Korean War asterisk multiple listing is the same person. A list of remains found was presented in 2012.

Chairman Macy reported that the DoD determines if the choppers are okay to be used in Vietnam.

Chairman Macy reported the summary of statistics for unaccounted for from past conflicts for World War II to present were reported, as well as all recently accounted for identified POW/MIAs.

Each district reported on their POW/MIA activities. The 1st District is still working on providing decals to patrol cars, the 2nd District presented a short program on Veterans Day and a POW/MIA program table at a birthday party, the 4th District and the 7th District are working on a resolution to include POW/MIA in the flag education program, and the 11th District distributed a DPMO list to all posts in the district.

Chairman Macy explained that service is a solemn occasion, so take time doing it.

Chairman Macy announced that the five civilian contractors are the responsibility of the employers, and that the government has no control over them. There were no motions made dealing with department funds.

HSONS OF thE AMERiCAN lEGiON COMMittEEH

There were 15 members present, five absent, and five guests. 1st District and 8th District were not represented.

Chairman Horvath and the committee made four resolutions a matter of record: Kenneth Corbeille 1st District commander, Bob Bowie northern vice commander, David Benefiel northern vice commander, and Raymond Giehll Jr. detachment finance officer.

Chairman Horvath held a discussion on the squadrons at zero percent and if they have received letters from the department as requested.

Chairman Horvath announced the camp out date and location (June 21-22, Jonesboro), as well as the golf tournament date and location (June 1st, Kokomo).

There were no motions made dealing with department funds.

ChilDREN & yOuth

Continued from page 7

HBOy SCOut COMMittEEH

Roll call disclosed the following: 13 members present, two members absent, the 2nd District was not represented. There were five guests present.

The national applications for Eagle Scout of the Year have been altered to list district chairmen to return completed complications. Applications will be judged March 16 at 9:00 a.m. at the Scout Headquarters. Coffee and donuts will be provided. Applications should be submitted to district chairmen by February 1. A motion was made, seconded and passed to publish Eagle Scout and Square Knot letters on the website. Stephen Kumfer will supply letters to the Americanism coordinator. Applications are to be made by Legion posts that have chartered scout troops. Scholarship funds are available for eight years after being awarded. When interviewing candidates, members should have a parent present.

HBOyS StAtE ENROllMENt COMMittEEH

Roll call disclosed the following: 9 members present, four members absent, the 3rd District and the 7th District were not represented. There were two guests present.

Chairman Cook reported he had attended and passed out Boys State information at a conference for private schools in Indiana. He discussed the new National American Legion resolutions regarding background checks for youth program volunteers. Chairman Cook distributed tri-folds and applications. All applications should be filled out completely with signature of parents. Infor-

mation regarding the home school association representatives for the state was distributed to the district chairmen. The recruitment policy was reviewed.

Cha irman Cook introduced Boys State Director Bob Oeth, who, in turn, introduced assistant deans Gary Steinhardt, Scott Weyler, Jack Cook, counselor Monty Buchanan and past director Steve Bowman. The following orientation sessions are planned: 1st District at Post 100 - May 28 - 7:30 p.m. and 6th District at Post 72 - May 5 - 2:00 p.m. The 11th District orientation sessions are listed on the Hoosier Boys State website.

HChilDREN & yOuth COMMittEEH

Roll call disclosed the following: 14 members present, one member absent, all districts represented. There were three guests present. The 10th District has not appointed a chairman. Minutes were read and approved. Chairman Sharber read a thank you note from Carolyn McCammon, a 2011 Educator of the Year recipient. Educator of the Year binders were distributed. District Chairman Charlie Franklin will be presenting a resolution at his next district meeting for consideration at the spring conference. The request for increasing the award amount from $500 to $1000 has been denied.

HFlAG EDuCAtiON/ EtiquEttE COMMittEEH

Roll call disclosed the following: 13 members present, two members absent, all districts represented. There were two guests present.

The committee judged the district winners. Bennett Schmitt sponsored by Post 147 in the 8th District and Myah Niemeyer sponsored by Post 261 in the 1st District were declared the state winners. Bennett attends Ireland Elementary in Jasper. Myah attends Jane Ball Elementary in Crown Point.

A motion was made by Ron Byrley and seconded by Niles Gammon to have an open book test rather than closed book. The motion was passed. There was a brief discussion on background checks for volunteers. Discussion will continue at the spring conference.

HGiRl SCOutS COMMittEEH

Roll call disclosed the following: 10 members present, 0 members absent, all districts represented except for the 5th which has not appointed a chairman. There were 4 guests present.

A motion was made and approved to accept minutes of previous meeting. A motion was made and approved to submit a resolution to make girl scouting a national program. The committee received information about National American Legion’s risk management policies regarding background checks. The Americanism coordinator should make sure the 9-11th district chairmen are listed on the application. The 1st and 11th districts may have candidates.

HjuNiOR ShOOtiNG SpORtS COMMittEEH

This committee did not meet. They had a demonstration set up 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. in Veterans Hall.

HORAtORiCAl COMMittEEH

Roll call disclosed the following: 13 members present, three members absent, all districts represented except for the 5th. There were eight guests present.

Minutes were read and corrections were made to the calendar of district and zone competitions. The final list of contestants was distributed. Each district should submit the name of one judge for state competition. If there is a conflict with a judge knowing a contestant, their judge form should

Everyone Performs A Valued Part

The American Legion wins hundreds of thousands of dollars for veterans each year that veterans would not had received without representation. Our veterans service office receives much of the credit (I see to that), but, to tell the true, all American Legion members share in this accomplishment.

Your membership funds support a department veterans service office staff of seven fulltime employees, their training, and state-of-the-art veterans service computer equipment. The service office is co-located near the VA regional office at the federal building in Indianapolis. Our main responsibility is mak-

John Hickey DEPARTMENT sERviCE OFFiCER

vEtERANS SpOtliGht

The Department Service Office will be open each Monday through Friday from 7:30 AM until 4:00 PM during the month of March. Appointments are necessary for client visits. You may contact the Department Service Office by calling our direct number of 317-916-3605; calling a long distance toll free number of 1-888-723-7999, extension 1; faxing us at 317-9163406; or by using the following e-mail address: al.vbaind@va.gov.

ing sure VA provides veterans all their entitled benefits. This includes helping to make sure veterans know about their benefits, making sure our veteran clients know what evidence they need to win claims, assisting veterans with filing benefit claims, and making sure VA applies laws and regulations properly when deciding claims.

Helping veterans win claims at the department’s veterans service office, however, isn’t the only way The American Legion offers veterans assistance. Without a network of post service officers making that first contact with veterans and advising them where to go for claims filing assistance, the Legion’s de-

partment service officers would never have the opportunity to work those claims. We should also not forget the importance of Indiana’s 92 county veterans service officers (many American Legion members) who also play a very important part in helping veterans learn about their benefits and filing benefit claims.

American Legion officials at post, district, department and national levels also improve veterans benefits through the legislative process. Legion officials involved in the legislative process have improved both veterans health administration and veterans benefits administration benefits immensely over the last several decades.

For instance; veteran healthcare has gone from the healthcare system of last resort in the 1970s and 1980 to recently being called the best healthcare system in the nation (see: http://www. veteransaidbenefit.org/va_ healthcare_system.htm) ; and, the government can no longer ignored paying compensation for veterans suffering with Agent Orange related disabilities, posttraumatic stress disorders, and various environmental hazards of war.

Indeed; no one person or department does it all for veterans in The American Legion. It takes a combined effort. All

Continued on page 19

Hoosier Veterans’ Records At Risk In State Building

Stephen e. Towne PREsiDENT, FRiENDs OF ThE iNDiANA sTATE ARChivEs, iNC GuESt EDitORiAl

Editor’s Note: The following editorial by Steven Towne outlines the need for a purpose-built state archives building. Department of Indiana Resolution 12M-9, adopted at the January 14, 2012 Mid-winter conference, deplores the condition of the storage of these records, urges action to improve standards, and encourages all veterans to contact their local state officials to bring this about.

adisastrous July 1973 fire at the National Personnel Records Center at St. Louis, Missouri destroyed upwards of 18 million military personnel files. Ever since that day, Indiana veterans and their families have relied on finding DD-214 military discharge records at the Indiana State Archives. The DD-214s found at the Indiana State Archives are often the only copies for Indiana veterans of World War II and the Korean and Vietnam wars to use for securing valuable veteran benefits. Thousands of lucky Indiana veterans have obtained copies of their military discharge records from the Indiana State Archives in the decades since the fire.

But those unique Indiana discharge records are in danger.

Years ago, state government administrators moved the Indiana State Archives to a flimsy and unsafe warehouse building on Indianapolis’ eastside. In that building, the records are constantly at risk from the elements. Along with years of roof leaks from rain and snow and near misses from tornadoes, bad environmental controls in the building mean the records bake in hot, dry air, or are subjected to damp, humid conditions. Heat and humidity fluctuations wreak havoc on the chemistry of paper records. Consequently, those DD-214s and Indiana’s other vital records of governors, legislatures, and courts are slowly but surely falling apart.

Have you ever seen a base-

water damage at the State Archives building at 6440 E. 30th Street, indianapolis

ment after a flood? Now imagine a warehouse the size of a football field full of important records after a flood, or after

a tornado ripped off the roof. Something must change here in

Continued on page 22

VeTeRANS UpDATe

Spotlight On Resolutions

Codify Eligibility For Arlington National Cemetery

The American Legion at all levels of the organization adopts positions on matters that pertain to the Four Pillars: Americanism, Children & Youth, Rehabilitation, and National Security. A Legionnaire at the post level can identify a problem and suggest a possible answer. If the membership supports this, it is then put onto paper in the form of a resolution. This can be forwarded to the District with appropriate action there, and then to the Department headquarters for action there. National or federal implications go to the National Convention or the National Executive Committee for possible approval to become one of the many key positions of The American Legion.

Future issues of The Hoosier Legionnaire will feature one resolution from recent national conventions that will have an impact on some aspect of our membership, veterans and their

families, and the United States. resolution no. 55: Codify Burial eligibility For arlington national Cemetery

WHEREAS, Arlington National Cemetery is our Nation’s most sacred shrine representing an embodiment of the sacrifices that were made to uphold our country’s ideals and freedoms; and

WHEREAS, More than 400,000 veterans and their dependents are buried here on 612 acres of land; and

WHEREAS, Arlington is one of more than 100 National Cemeteries but, unlike the others, Arlington Cemetery is administered by the Department of the Army; and

WHEREAS, In spite of restrictive regulations (Title 32, CFR), there have been numerous waivers in past years, falsification of military records to gain interment at Arlington and even an unprecedented Presidential

requested waiver and reservation; and

WHEREAS, Eligibility criteria for burials at Arlington need to be codified in order to assure compliance and fairness and to assure that the remaining space at Arlington is judiciously used; now, therefore, be it resolVeD, By The american legion in national Convention assembled in indianapolis, indiana, august 28, 29, 30, 2012, That The american legion urges Congress to codify eligibility criteria for burial at arlington national Cemetery and that such burial be restricted to servicemembers who die on active-duty; to our most decorated veterans to include recipients of the Purple heart; former members of the armed forces separated from the military with a physical disability of 30 percent or more before october 1, 1949; and to veterans who spent full ca-

reers in uniform, and to their spouses and eligible children; to former prisoners of war; and for the President or former Presidents as Commanders in Chief of the armed Forces; and, be it further resolVeD, That The american l egion believes there should be no waivers for unqualified persons except under

Family Support Network Provides Help

The American Legion’s Family Support Network is ready to provide immediate assistance to service personnel and families whose lives have been directly affected by Operation Iraqi Freedom and America’s war on terror.

Since Sept. 11, 2001, the nation’s active-duty military has been on high alert, and National Guard and reserve units are being mobilized in record numbers. As a result, the families of these men and women

often find themselves unable to meet normal monthly expenses, and assistance is needed for a variety of everyday chores. These tasks include grocery shopping, child care, mowing the grass, fixing the family car and other routine household jobs.

To address these issues, The American Legion has a nationwide toll-free telephone number, (800) 504-4098, for servicemembers and their family members to call for assistance.

Applicants can apply online by clicking the assistance form at the top of the page. Calls originating from Indiana are referred to your Department Headquarters. We then relay the collected information to a local Hoosier American Legion post. The local post then contacts the servicemember or family to see how assistance can be provided locally. Since the creation of the Family Support Network during the first Persian Gulf War, thousands of

posts have responded to meet these families’ needs.

Posts are reminded that families in financial need with minor children are encouraged to call on the Temporary Financial Assistance program at National Headquarters to assist. Otherwise, it is up to local posts to provide or develop the resources necessary to meet the need. (For an upcoming seminar on this valuable program, see details on page 23 in this issue.)

unique and compelling circumstances that comport with codified non-partisan waiver procedures as established by Congress; and, be it finally resolVeD, That eligibility for interment of cremated remains of honorably discharged veterans in the Columbarium at a rlington should also be codified.

The Family Support Network works when Legionnaires at the post level respond to the increasing needs of comrades and their families. As the nation’s largest veterans organization, our commitment to the men and women of our armed forces and their families never wavers. Together, we must act to ensure that no family endures hardships caused by military service. By doing so, we ensure that The American Legion is “Still Serving America.”

the eternal flame at the john F. kennedy gravesite. photo courtesy Melissa Bohan, Arlington National Cemetery

The Mid-Winter Conference Adds Fun To the Business of The American Legion

1. Daniel Lawson, ladies winning

2.

3. Commander Dick fundraiser.

4.

Conference featured a majority of the Commission and Committee meetings as a number of national headquarters staff, in the form of LEAD (Leadership Development) workshops. Those topics included Post Operations and Membership Legislative; Veterans Affairs Enrollment and Priorities; and The American Legion Other informational and training sessions took place on such matters as post officer’s role, and Temporary Financial Assistance. Commander Jewell’s Reception and his party on Saturday evening brought a bit of relaxation to the many who Lawson, Kim Statum, Mike Wooden and Rebecca Bowie celebrate the two winning the cornhole trophy.

Dzieglowicz presenting his report to the Department Executive Committee morning.

Dick Jewell retrieves the winning ticket in the Department’s Sweepstake Assistant Director, National HQ staff member, presenting a L.E.A.D work subject of the American Legion Riders.

National Commander David Rehbein travel all the way from Iowa just to take cornhole contest?

Commander Dick Sexton presenting a check from Post 11 for $800.00. can dance perform for those who can watch.

the Department Executive Committee follow the proceedings of the Jewell plans strategy amid his fellow officers.

Kim Mezger, of University Veterans Post 360, proposes a resolution campus-based veteran representatives for every state funded college or university.

Jewell, Assistant Adjutant Buzz Smith, Department Sgt-at-Arms Kenny Toll Membership Chairman Marty Dzieglowicz at Gov. Mike Pence’s inauguration. Keirn begs the Good Lord to help the DEC in any way possible.

District Membership Teams Vie For 1st Place

hello fellow Legionnaires!

It’s been one heck of a ride and we are not done yet! Membership has been steady; in fact, it has been great on the national scene. We have made all the required national target dates so far. The last national target percent was 80% and Indiana was at 85%. As your membership chairman, I would like to thank our membership team and all Legionnaires who have contributed to make this target possible.

On the state level, the 8th District has maintained its presence in first place. Kudos to the 8th District Commander Dan Lawson and his membership team. Thanks to 2nd District Commander Dick Sexton and his membership team for keeping the pressure on the 8th Dis-

marty Dzieglowicz

trict and winding up in second place. Also, a big ‘thank you’ to all the other districts. It takes everyone’s best combined effort throughout the state to achieve our membership quotas.

With that being said, we must continue to make our communities aware of our posts and our positive contributions to our communities through our programs. We need to get involved with the Boy Scouts, Girl

Scouts, oratorical competitions and Hoosier Boys State to name a few. Our presence helps to retain members and attract new members.

Pride is the key. Whenever I get down and feel the weight of the world on my shoulders, I revert back to my days in the Army and the oath I took, “A Soldier’s Creed”:

I am an American Soldier. I am a warrior and a member of a team.

I serve the people of the United States, and live the Army Values.

I will always place the mission first.

I will never accept defeat. I will never quit.

I will never leave a fallen comrade.

I am disciplined, physically

and mentally tough, trained and proficient in my warrior tasks and drills.

I always maintain my arms, my equipment and myself.

I am an expert and I am a professional.

I stand ready to deploy, engage, and destroy the enemies of the Unites States of America in close combat.

I am a guardian of freedom and the American way of life.

I am an American Soldier.

The creed reprograms my mind to believe in The American Legion core values. It commits me to reestablish and refocus my thoughts on attaining our membership goals. We need to plan, organize and direct our membership teams to succeed. Stay positive and ARM – Always Remember Membership!

Adjutant Needs More Blank Membership Cards

Dear aubrey

Our Post is out of blank membership cards. How can we get more? Needy

Dear needy

If you need more blank membership cards, you may order them in packets of 5. Call me at 317-630-1364 if need a supply of blanks. Keep in mind, the Post is still responsible for turning in any unused blanks at, or before, Close of Books.

Dear aubrey

I lost my membership card. Am I able to get a replacement?

Down the Drain

Posts At 100% As of 1/29/13

District 1

Post 0017, Gary

District 2

Post 0228, Francesville

Post 0375, Lake Village

Post 0414, Burlington

District 3

Post 0130, Michigan City

District 4

Post 0202, Butler

District 5

Post 0087, Alexandria

Post 0555, Bunker Hill

District 6

Post 0341, Cicero

Post 0410, Whitestown

District 7

Post 0462, Somerville

District 8

ASk AuBREy

Aubrey Hancock

Please send your questions to Aubrey c/o Department Headquarters, to ahancock@legion.org, or phone them in to (317) 630-1300.

Dear Down Yes. Notify the Post that you have lost your card. They will make out a replacement card for you. If you are a Paid Up for Life member, you can re-

quest a new plastic card from National Headquarters at 317860-3112.

Dear aubrey

I have a member who missed a prior year or two. Can he pay for years missed? If so, how do I go about doing that?

Adjutant

include more than one year on the transmittal, but you CAN NOT put priors on the same transmittal with current year payments. The per capita owed is the current year’s rate (ie. if a member missed the year 2000, they would still owe $27 since that is the current year’s per capita rate.)

Post 0187, Evansville

Post 0444, Dale

Post 0463, Tennyson

District 9

Post 0069, Orleans

Post 0195, Campbellsburg

Post 0452, New Alsace

District 10

Dear adjutant

Yes. If a member has missed a year or years, they are able to pay for the years missed. In order to process prior years, simply submit the missed years on a separate transmittal and check (ie. don’t write a check for the current year and include the amount for the prior years on it.) You may

Dear aubrey

I renewed online, but have not yet received my card. What should I do?

Neoteric Member

Dear neoteric Posts get a listing of their members that have renewed

Post 0134, Westport

Post 0359, Richmond

District 11

Post 0056, Police

Post 0360, University

Veterans

Post 0510, Frank E. McKinney, Sr.

Prize Trips Go Begging! memBeRSHip

some post leadership were rewarded with travel prizes recently. The post with the highest percentage over 100% by December 31st, in each of the post size groups, received the following prize: the post commander or his/ her designated representative from each of the two winning posts were invited to attend an all-expense paid trip to the Lincoln Pilgrimage recently. The award included transportation to and from Springfield, Illinois, dinner with Department Membership Chairman Dzieglowicz, and one night accommodation (two winners per double room). The two leading district membership chairmen, over target date goal, (one from the North and one from the South) would have also received an invite to the Lincoln Pilgrimage (same award criteria as the post commanders).

Lincoln Pilgrimage winners were Category 1: Post 463 Commander, Rocky E. Baize II, Category 2: Post 69 Commander, Ron Taylor, who has

designated his adjutant, Ron Pridemore, for the prize. There was no winner for Category 3 or for the district membership chairmen.

Win National Commander’s Pin

During the 2012-2013 membership year, National Commander Jim Koutz will award his national commander pin to any Legion Family member who obtains a minimum of three headquarters post transfers, and also obtains an additional combination of 10 new members, renewals and headquarters post transfers to equal a combined number of 13.

A new member is any eligible person joining for the 2013 membership year who was not a member of The American Legion during the 2012 membership year.

Each member listed must be eligible for membership in The American Legion. Forward names of Sons of The American Legion members or Auxiliary members to your detachment or unit for use in their respective incentive programs.

To maintain the integrity of the national commander’s pin program, only one pin will be awarded per individual.

Upon receipt of the certification form, national membership staff will confirm the names and mail the pin directly to the person who earned. Commander Koutz’s ‘Every Day Is Veterans Day’ pin incentive program will end June 30, or when supplies are exhausted.

Also, Legionnaires who recruit one new member from each eligible war period (but not including World War I) will receive a certificate.

Posts Look Out For Important End-Of-Year Forms

The Department of Indiana will soon begin distribution of important end-of-year forms for all posts in the state.

According to Membership Manager Aubrey Hancock, who has revised some forms and will be responsible for the distribution, “… the forms will be mailed out between the last week of February and the first week of March. They will be mailed to the post mailing address, to the attention of the post adjutant. It is really important that the adjutants pay very

close attention to the deadlines on each form, since they vary from form to form.”

Hancock advises adjutants to keep the forms in a safe place until the information is recorded and the forms are ready to be returned to the department.

Post certification and Post Delegate/Alternate forms are available online under the Membership tab.

The following forms will be mailed:

Poster Certification – Post Certification forms give department detailed information on

the officers the post has elected for each position and/or committee. This is important when department needs to contact the post concerning membership or programs. These forms give information about the post itself, such as, address, phone/ fax number, dues amount, and meeting times. Not having this information inhibits department from communicating effectively with the post and, in turn, the members.

Post Data reports – Post Data Reports are forms required by national headquar-

ters. These reports tell national the post address, phone number, commander, adjutant, and dues amount. The information recorded on these forms is printed on the membership renewal notices sent out five times throughout the membership year. If this information is not given, renewal notices and post information will not be accurate.

Post Delegate and alternate Forms – Post Delegate/Alternate forms are to be filled out by the post in order to certify the posts’ delegates and alternate

delegates for state convention. If the deadline on this form is not met, a post’s delegates/ alternates may not be seated at the state convention. For questions about completing the forms, or if they are not received by mid-March, post officers should contact Aubrey Hancock at department headquarters.

Remember, these are very important documents that could affect the operations of the post operations and of its members.

legionnaires Near the End Of A lincoln pilgrimage.

DiSTRiCT NeWS

hello Friends of the First District. Congratulations to Post 100 Commander Rebecca Bowie and her teammate Kim Statum on doing a fine job at the Winter Conference in January where they won the Corn hole Tournament. They always are an excellent team and this was not their first win for the district. Look for their picture elsewhere in this newsletter.

We just completed selection of the district representative for the Oratorical Contest. It is always worthwhile to listen to the high school students’ orations about aspects of the constitution. In the 1st District, we were fortunate to have 34 students participate in the contest. Most of the students came from Mike Gordon’s “We, the People” class. District Oratorical Chairman Dan Buksa arranged to get twice as many helpers as participants. There were five simultaneous preliminary competitions that selected its best student to compete in the final round. Lunch was served between the preliminary and final round. There were participation certificates for all who gave orations and thank you certificates for all the volunteers who acted as moderators, sergeants-at-arms, escorts, chaplains, timers, and tabulators. Honor Society students served as guides for those unfamiliar with the school. There were over 30 judges for the simultaneous preliminary rounds and six judges for the final round. The resumes of the judges were all impressive. There were helpers from the 1st District, 2nd District and 3rd District. What a production!

Oratorical competitions are very worthwhile to hear. Zone competition is on February 10 in La Porte. The department competition is at 1:00 p.m. on March 10 at Department HQ.

This may be too late of a notice, but Post 430 is sponsoring our Four Chaplains program on February 10 at 2:00 p.m. There will be snacks and a fine program according to Post 430 Commander John Minchuk.

Thanks to 1st District Auxiliary Chair Barbara Sales, 1st District Legion Chair Gail Galich, and 1st District Vice-chair Jim Grauvogl for coordinating our Hines Veterans Hospital visits on the third Sunday of the month. Whiting Post 80 Commander Bill Palmer tells me that in February, they are providing a free pancake breakfast to those people going to Hines. We meet in the lobby at noon to sign the volunteer registers (Legion, Auxiliary, 40&8, and hospital). We divide into teams, receive ward assignments, and try to start visiting patients at 12:30 p.m. A week before

Continued in the next column

iwould like to thank everyone who attended Midwinter Conference and I hope you got a lot of information to take back to your posts. I appreciate everyone who participated in the drive around for card turn in at conference. We still have a long way to go and it gets harder now so we need to get out there and work membership. We have quite a few posts that need less than 20 cards to achieve 100%, so check the green bars and see who has not renewed their membership. Give them a call and see if they are having problems. We have another card turn in on February 11 so be sure to get cards mailed in before then. Let’s not forget all the Veterans out there that need the help of The American Legion as a voice for them; this is why we need the membership. It is even more important with all the cuts in spending and cutting back on programs. Again, I would like to thank all the Posts in 2nd District for all the work that you do. Without everything that you do we would not be where we are at, so keep up the good work. Remember all the Veterans that are still in harm’s way and keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

DiStRiCt 1

Richard Sexton C OMMANDER 2

greetings from the Mighty Third District.

Continued from previous column

we go, the chairmen with others helping, prepare goodie bags to leave with each patient.

If anyone has questions about membership, give me or one of the vice commanders a call. Jim Grauvogl, 219-614-8925, Posts 78, 232, 266, 270, 367, and 428. Tim Conners, 219-308-5514, Posts 54, 66, 100 430, and 485. Pat O’Donnell, 219-588-2797, Posts 17, 126, 168, 207, and 279. John Sarnecki, 219-741-4983, Posts 80, 180, 369, 454, and 508. Bernie Tiltges, 219322-9336, Posts 16, 20, 102, 261, and 289.

Let me know if you need me to be there or help. My number at home is 219-931-5960. My number at work is 219-989-3300 ext 156. I now have a cell phone with number 219-413-8571. My email address is mjwooden@comcast.net.

We have had a few posts that have been active during the holiday season. On December 15, Squadron 189 distributed Christmas food baskets to 52 needy families in the Walkerton and North Liberty area. Each basket contained an entire Christmas ham dinner, along with enough food, canned goods, bread, cereal and eggs to last a family about a week. This surpassed last year’s effort of 43 baskets. A portion of every event that the squadron has is set for the annual Christmas basket effort. There is also an account set up at The First Source Bank to accept any and all donations to aid in this effort as well.

Daniel lee

The New Carlisle Post 297 family has been active as well. Auxiliary Unit 297 donated over $200.00 in food for the New Carlisle food bank. This is a yearly tradition for the Auxiliary and, in addition, they also donated dinner baskets to two needy families, accompanied with gifts from a list submitted by the families to make their Christmas a little brighter. Additionally, a donation of $100.00 was given to the New Carlisle Ambulance department.

Meanwhile, the Legionnaires of Post 297 were busy as well. They conducted two events for the Christmas season, one for the children of the post family and a second for the veterans at Hamilton Grove Retirement Community. In conjunction with the Auxiliary and the Sons of The American Legion, gifts were purchased for each veteran at the community. Each year, the staff asks each veteran what they want for Christmas and the Legion family comes to the rescue by purchasing the items on the list. Then, one week before Christmas, the gifts—thirty in all as well as ten fruit baskets—were delivered to the delight of the veterans residing at the community. Then, to take care of the children of the Legion family, the post hosted a Christmas party for them on Sunday, December 16. As the children arrived, they enjoyed cookies and fruit punch, apples and oranges. While waiting on Santa, they watched cartoons. And then, Santa arrived at 4:00 p.m. with a big smile and presents for all the children. Each child sat on Santa’s lap and told him what they wanted for Christmas. Pictures were also taken of the children with Santa. Thanks to our two posts that took care of the veterans and their families over the holiday season.

Well, that’s about it until next time. Commander Dan and the officers of the Third District hope everyone has a great 2013!

1 Mike wooden C OMMANDER

greetings from the 4th District. As I write this, it is a cold and snowy winter’s day in the northeast part of Indiana. I can’t wait for Spring.

Midwinter conference again had a lot to offer your post and to the communities in your area. All posts need to know the gaming law changes and existing rules. The class we had on them was very good and answered a lot of questions on the laws.

Also at conference, we organized our programs, such as boy and girl scouts, homeless veterans, oratorical and many others. They are all good things to bring back to your posts and will help growth and respectability.

The 4th District had three entries for the oratorical contest, all outstanding. The winner was Robert Van Dyke from the South Side High School. I hope he will go a very long way.

On membership, we have been bouncing around from 10th to 6th place and are just 2% out of second place. As the year goes on, it is harder and harder to renew older members, so I guess that means we need to get on the phone and start calling them. There are four times the veterans out there who don’t belong to the Legion than do. So when you see someone wearing a service cap or know of someone who might have served in the military, just ask and you might get a new member.

I also want to remind all the post workers to have an open mind to new things. In my travel to various posts around the district, I see things like new boards, bean bag contests, mini golf, weekly drawings, and many more activities. If your post is not active or doesn’t promote fun, it could die. Also, please also support the programs of The American Legion. Don’t let your post become inactive and then lose its charter.

In closing I hope to see you all at spring conference and don’t forget to feed the birdies.

greetings from the Mighty 5th District.

My first six months as 5th District commander has been awesome. I have made many new friends and I am looking forward to the next six months. My goal is to be more involved in the community and provide the public with information about The American Legion and its programs. In the 5th District, our vice commanders, membership chairman and I make every attempt to share information with the each Legion post when we make our visitations. Most of our posts’ members are out in their community, volunteering and helping others. They make me proud to be an American Legion member.

Our Alexandria Post 78 reports giving back to the community. At their monthly meeting, they gave $1000 to the Service Club, $500.00 went to the Beauty For Ashes (Home for Abused Mothers and Children), and $500.00 to the Church Street Commons. The Church Street Commons provide tutoring, clothing and a giveaway program.

Members of the Tipton American Legion Post 46 made sure the veterans who are residents of Miller’s Merry Manor and Autumwood Village had a 2012 Merry Christmas. Gift bags filled with goodies were presented to veterans along with a heart-filled ‘thank you’ for their service to our country. Post 46 Commander Mike Sego presented a gift bag to Jim Gasho and James Poole. The women’s Auxiliary Ceal Stone, Carolyn Endicott and Virginia Baker, 5th District President of the American Legion Auxiliary gave a goodie bag to Juanita Stafford.

January 2013 at midwinter conference, the 8th District gave the 5th District two quilts made by the men from Carlisle Indiana, Wabash Correctional Facility P.L.U. S. program, in co- operation with New Beginnings Prison Ministry of Terre Haute and The American Legion. They are honored and humbled to have been given the privilege of recognizing the heroic life and actions of our fallen soldiers. These quilts will be presented to the family and loved ones of: Sgt. Bradley W. Atwell, Kokomo, Indiana and SSGT Jamie D. Jarboe Frankfort, Indiana.

are you ready for spring? I know I am so I can keep up with visitations to the posts in my district. We are still in the middle of renewals for membership and I have one post that took the 777 and 706 list went through it and got 53 members to either transfer or renew with their post. It took time, but the results are worth the hard work. I want to congratulate Post 45 Noblesville for doing this. If one member can do this within two months, then think of what you can do between now and March.

In the next couple of months, each post will be looking at the officers of their posts to see if they want new officers or reelect the officers they have now. Take your time with your selections. National has put in place training for posts officers, either new or old. I encourage each post to ensure that your officers get this training. Think of the officers that have performed in the past and look what that officer could do with training.

We need members to step up and be a leader within their post and start coming to the district meetings so they can step up as district officers. Each year, we have to select the district commander and officers. Along those lines, we have to get members to serve on committees and programs for the district. If you have a program that you want to get more involved with, then contact your vice commanders or district commander.

At each conference, there are many committee meetings. Sometimes, a Legionnaire is assigned to only one meeting. You could say that going to the conference for just one meeting during the whole day is not worth it. I have to tell you that you are wrong. You get very good information from those meetings that you can pass on at your post and to others. You might get ideas to improve on what you are doing with your program at your post. Also, we have training sessions and information sessions that are going on throughout the day. You do not have to be selected to that committee to sit in. You have a better understanding of the programs when you do this.

Remember to go out there and get new members and keep your programs going so your post can grow within your community. Everyone knows the motto: “Each day is Veterans day”. Thanks for the hard work.

C OMMANDER 4 DISTRICT

Dick Bash

C OMMANDER

DISTRICT

Richard thomas 5

C OMMANDER

DISTRICT

Darrell Bowman 6

DiSTRiCT NeWS

greeting from the fighting 7th. Another year has come and gone. We are now on the downhill slope of our membership drive for this year. Here in the 7th we are still trucking along.

I like to give a shoutout to our smaller posts in the district that are working for their communities, like Coal City Post 141, which every year hosts a Christmas parade. Also, this year, past district commanders Jerry Ward and Bill Andrews were invited to march in a community parade to the Fire House. Then, in turn, they invited the community to a Christmas dinner. This year, they fed 170 people and gave away 20 Christmas baskets to needy families. A job well done. Past Commander Jerry and Bill were busy that night; they also were guests of the Clay City Post 225 Christmas party. Clay City put on their annual Christmas party where they also play bingo for prizes. This shows that no matter what the size of The American Legion Post, it the people in the post working for their communities.

The 7th District posts have also been hard working on our children and youth programs. Here are the results of some to name a few. We had our district Oratorical contest. I would like to congratulate again John Dever, a senior from Center Grove High School on winning at the district level. Good luck in the zone competition. I would also like to thank Chairman Larry Tallion, Commander Dunbar, and Bloomington Post 18 for putting on a good contest.

In January, I was invited to Sullivan Post 139 with my Boy Scout chairman, Ron Hooker, where we presented an Eagle Scout certificate of appreciation to Caleb Johnson who recently was awarded the rank of Eagle Scout. We also awarded his scoutmasters, Tracy and Daniel Wilson, a certificate of appreciation for each of their work with the postsponsored Troop 139. I would also like to thank my Flag etiquette and Americanism and Government chairman Bryon Thompson for the great work he did for those programs as well as the schools that participated in them. These are just a few things we in The American Legions stride to continue promoting in our communities though our youth programs and community involvement.

great job 8th District! You are a great district and a pleasure to be part of. I’m proud to be your commander. With every membership turn-in date, we are either Number One or very close. This is due to your devotion to your American Legion post, the 8th District and our family of four.

Each year, the department invites the leading district commander and a member of his choice to attend the Washington DC conference. This year, the 8th District was leading; therefore, I was asked to attend. I will be taking Dave Bryant, membership chairman for the East End, to accompany me. This is a great honor not only to be asked, but to be given the opportunity to represent our district and our department.

Getting involved in American Legion programs can and will assist in your membership efforts. It’s not a cure for a shortfall but it will bring in veterans who want to belong to a winning organization. Who wants to belong to a ball team that doesn’t win any games?

Once you have a department winner and see that person on the stage at The American Legion convention, you will be hooked! I’ve been teaching and promoting the Flag Education/Etiquette Program for over nine years in five elementary schools. I was informed during the midwinter conference that one of my 4th grade students was chosen as the department winner. His name is Bennett Schmitt of Ireland Elementary School. This is my second winner to stand on that stage. This says a lot for the caliber of teachers and students within my county of Dubois.

One of the best ways to promote your post is to promote programs offered by The American Legion. Some programs are easier to promote than others. Study them and ask for assistance from posts that are successful in similar programs. Programs such as the Flag Education and the Americanism and Government programs are good programs to start with. Once you have built up your confidence and success, continue with other programs such as Boys State, Oratorical and Junior Shooting Sports. Keep in mind that you should only support programs for which you have qualified personnel.

I got involved in The American Legion at my current post in 2002. The first thing I did was to complete The American Legion correspondence course, titled The American Legion Extension Institute Course,

salutations from the 9th District. I hope that everyone had a great holiday. I want to add Post 452, New Alsace to our list of 100% posts. Congratulations!

This will be a short article since everyone had personal things going on through the holidays. But now that they are over, it’s time to get back to business. As I stated last month when we were in last place (on December 7) that we would rise to the challenge in the second half of this year. Well, we have done just that and we are now in 3rd position (as of January 9). Congratulations, 9th District.

This is due to the hard work of all the officers and members of the posts throughout the district and to the due diligent of the district officers, for which I am very thankful to be associated with. I am sure that we will continue to strive to be in first place by the end of the year.

As I said above, this will be short. So make it a point this second half of this year to get involved and try to attend a district meeting. It’s always a great time and we sure could use the new outlook on things and the help.

Again, thanks to all the members and officers of the 9th District; you really make my job not only easier but also enjoyable.

8

before I made my first meeting. It has paid off. Be informed, have product knowledge and be sure to respect those who have served.

I was very happy to present Anna Curts with a certificate of appreciation for her efforts in developing our 8th District pin. The certificate was presented at the January 20 8th District meeting in Ferdinand, Indiana. At the same meeting, we enjoyed the company of Department Commander Dick Jewell who presented Ferdinand Post 124 member Louis Kern with a check for $3,000.00, the first place prize in the midwinter Department Raffle.

Use the news media to your advantage. Spend time with your local newspaper editor, radio person and so on. Local media outlets are begging for information regarding solid information regarding your post activities. Be sure your post activities provide

it hasn’t been too long ago that I said, “Where did the summer go.” Now the 10th District is in the doldrums of another Hoosier winter, cold and overcast for days. January 2013 will be long remembered for days (or should I say day) with the temperature in the upper 60s and the next day in the single digits.

This month has already started with another drive around south of Interstate 70 that netted some 50-plus cards, and only a week after the Mid-winter conference. We need a few more drive-arounds to emphasize the importance of membership. Even though post commanders are informed of the drivearound and its purpose, there are those who say, “just put them in the mail”, or “the Adjutant isn’t here and the office is locked up, but we’ll send’em in tomorrow.” The biggest one is, “well, we just don’t have any membership cards to give you all”.

The time is now in this membership season for the post commander, post membership chairman and others in the post to go and knock on a door, send out post cards and make some telephone calls. When we spend all our time on this very important topic of membership, we miss the boat on our other important subjects of children and youth and veteran assistance programs.

Each post within the district should have its members selling these programs to their local communities. Programs such as Hoosier Boys/Girls State, Boy Scout, Girl Scout, baseball, Shooting Sports, American Legion High School Oratorical Contest, Americanism and Government and Flag Etiquette are very important within The American Legion. These are a just a few programs offered that go under-filled, uninterested and unknown to the communities, post members, teachers and parents. These are but a few American Legion programs that need attending to, but they can’t be advertised in the canteens or your halls. They must be organized, developed and communicated to the local children and their parents. They have to be sold to the educators in the community schools as to their values to the students as well as the community.

Congratulations to Annalee Witte from Eastern Hancock High School for being the 10th District winner in the district Oratorical Contest. The Zone 3 Oratorical Contest was held at the Broad Ripple Post 3 at 1:00 p.m. Also to be congratulated are Makayla Crossley and Larry Lodge III of Hagerstown High

Continued on page 22

hello to all fellow Legionnaires from the friendly 11th District.

Congratulations to the members of Tillman H. Harpole Post 249 in recognition of 75 years of their outstanding commitment to our Community, State, and Nation. Thank you for upholding the highest traditions and standards of The American Legion. Your fellow 11th District and Hoosier Legionnaires salute you.

It would be remiss of me if I did not give recognition and congratulations to the following posts for reaching 100% membership on or before 30 January 2013, according to the department’s membership report. They are:

• Frank McKinney Jr. Post 510 with 125 percent;

• Police Post 56 with 112 percent;

• University Veterans Post 360 with 100 percent. Thank you for an excellent effort to meet the goals set. You have demonstrated an above-and-beyond attitude to the 11th District. This only goes to show if you put forth an effort, you can obtain your goals. Fellow 11th District post and Legionnaires, you still have time to make your goals. My vice commanders and I have repeatedly offered to assist your post with these efforts. Please do not feel embarrassed to ask for assistance. I want you to feel free to contact us.

To all Hoosier Legionnaires, we have reached the middle of the Legion year. The reason I bring this up is that dues for membership are past due. Please double check your membership card. If you do not have a 2013 card, you are past due. Please go into your local post to renew. Your membership is important in so many ways, whether you come to the social events, or to the post meetings. I want to remind you that your membership helps us maintain a voice with our government.

You have seen and read every day politicians who never served a day in the military. Many of them are trying to cut funding and benefits, the same benefits and funding promised and guaranteed to you for serving our citizens, our government, and this great nation. Without your membership and support in The American Legion, our benefits are an easy target for political budget cuts. That is why it is so important to renew. Ask your friends, family, and neighbors to become members as well.

I know times are hard, unemployment is high, wages are low. It is difficult returning from serving your country and finding you do not have a job to take care of your family. This is why you, as a veteran,

Continued in the next column

COMMANDER’S MESSAGE

Continued from page 2

we’ll be joining our National Commander Jim Koutz from Indiana.

Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting another of our American Legion posts made up of our incarcerated veterans. Each of these members has honorable service to our country that came before the mistake that they made that placed them in the custody of the Department of Corrections. These guys do a lot with very little. While at Post 608 in Pendleton the other night, I saw donations made of over $1,700 to some pretty worthwhile projects. Look for the picture of me presenting one check elsewhere here in this issue (See page 5).

It’s time to wrap this up and get on the road again. I hope to see many more of you in the coming months as our travels crisscross this great Hoosier state. Thank you all for the work you do on behalf of The American Legion and Indiana’s veterans.

Rise to the Challenge!

HLH

DiStRiCt 11

Continued from previous column

need to step up again, and hold an American Legion membership. We can only do it through the brotherhood/sisterhood that made us veterans.

Now I want to point my efforts to the post. If you have members in distress and find it difficult to pay their dues, ask your post membership to help. Ask for donations, or have fundraisers to help those veterans. Legionnaires, think back to your military training. Cover your fellow soldiers’ backs and they will cover yours. That is how we survived to be here today. Recall the code of conduct: ‘leave no one behind.’

Remember the adage, once a soldier, always a soldier. Fellow Legionnaires, you are those soldiers.

HLH

vEtERANS SpOtliGht

Continued from page 10

Legionnaires play a part. Whether you are a full-time employee of the organization, an elected American Legion official, an active volunteer, or simply one supporting the organization’s efforts through your membership, you are an important part in The Legion’s pursuit of just compensation and benefits for wartime era veterans.

HLH

C OMMANDER

LeGiON NeWS

ASk AuBREy

Continued from page 14

online about once a month. Only after receiving the listing are they notified of your payment. The posts have been instructed to mail your membership card upon receiving these listings. You may, however, mail the post the “receipt” that you should have printed off, after your payment was confirmed.

Dear aubrey

I have a member that has renewed for 2013, but he/she is not on my roster. Why is that?

Inquisitive Adjutant

ADjutANt’S DESk

Continued from page 2

of the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs.

our goals and our budget to reflect this truth at the start of the year, so it comes as no surprise. But it doesn’t have to come true. There is time left to make this a turn-around year in membership. And it won’t require the effort of every member of the organization.

Hoosier Boys State continues to prepare young Hoosiers for the responsibilities of citizenship.

• You will make sure that veterans with families get the emergency financial boost they need to keep their families and homes intact.

Dear inquisitive

Typically, when a member renews, but they do not appear on the Post’s roster, that just means that the member joined or transferred after the rosters and cards were printed. This does not mean that they do not belong to your Post. Those members simply missed National’s cutoff date for pre-printed cards and rosters. Any transfers or new member sign ups that occur after March 31 of each year typically do not appear on the next year’s roster.

ChilDREN & yOuth

Continued from page 9 be pulled. A list was made of volunteers for the state competition. Risk management policies of The American Legion for background checks were distributed to the committee. A discussion was held regarding the checks. All tabulation volunteers must be trained.

There being no further business, the Oratorical Committee adjourned its meeting in proper order.

HChilDREN AND yOuth COMMiSSiONH

Before the adjournment of the Children and Youth Commission, a motion was made, seconded and passed to approve the Girl Scout resolution to be recognized as a national program.

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

He has clarified for shortsighted legislators the pitfalls of statewide accreditation of service officers, battled for education and jobs for younger veterans, and backed legislation that would honor Iraq and Afghanistan veterans by naming a portion of new Interstate 69 in their honor.

By any measure, his energy and interest have made a difference already, and he deserves your support. He has ours.

Finally, a few words on membership. Despite the best efforts of all concerned, the recent trend downward in membership shows every sign of continuing apace. We adjusted

REhABilitAtiON

Continued from page 8

2013, in Salon C of the Marriott Hotel during the Fall Conference. There were 20 members present, two members absent, and 24 guests present. Minutes from the previous meeting were read and approved. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources has stocked the pond. The pond is catch and release. Al Pulido made a motion to request department funds to purchase 10 slings and four lifts. The total cost would be $7884.52. This motion was seconded by Danny Rice. Melissa Durr mentioned the need for

Just every other one.

If half of you sign up one new member between now and the close of books, we will totally erase the loss of the past 20 years. You won’t get a prize. We won’t pay you. Your name won’t go into a drawing. No one will know what you did. But here is what you will have done:

• You will have ensured that veterans who need claims representation continue to receive it from accredited service officers who know what they are doing and who have already delivered nearly $100,000,000 in federal dollars to Indiana through successful claims.

• You will guarantee that

• You make sure that someone speaks up for your sons and daughter in uniform when they need jobs or education.

• You will educate legislators on the difference between earned benefits and entitlements.

• You will deliver Flag and Americanism & Government education to school children whose schools won’t do it anymore.

• You will have saved this organization. Isn’t that reward enough?

Please sign up one new member. Don’t worry about the guy or gal next to you. You do it.

take precautions to prevent the flu. Remodeling will be done to the McArthur Building this summer. There has been an exercise gym established. The homeless program is moving on very well. As of today’s date, there are 256 residents. Open dining began last April and is working out well. There was a discussion regarding the community project. Mary York (10th District) donated $150 for a residents party. S.A.L. will hold bingo on February 9th.

HNuRSiNG hOME COMMittEEH

The Nursing Home Committee met at 9:00 a.m., Saturday, January 12, 2013, in Salons 2-3 of the Marriott Hotel during the midwinter conference. There

were 19 members present, four members absent, and s guests present. 1st District reported that there was approximately $1,000 raised at Applebee’s. 1st District also inquired about reimbursement for post committee expenses. Several districts discussed their various donations in the form of foods, gift cards, etc. Also, several districts had the ability to make purchases at discounted prices, and make care packets, saving hundreds of dollars. There were no motions made or funds requested.

HvEtERANS ASSiStANCE COMMittEEH

The Veterans Assistance Committee did not meet at the Midwinter Conference.

iNtERNAl AFFAiRS

Continued from page 8

The Committee will meet at the joint spring conference.

A motion was made to adjourn the meeting. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.

There was no further business to be brought before the committee. There was no department request for funds.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:22 a.m.

HFiREFiGhtER/ lAw & ORDERH

The minutes from the Fall Conference were read. A Motion was made to approve the minutes, the Motion was seconded and passed unanimously.

Chairman Kocher passed out the binders for Law Officer, EMS and Firefighter of the year Awards for 2013.

Chairman Kocher informed the Committee that the law officer and firefighter binders from 2012 winners have been submitted to the national headquarters in DC for judging.

He reminded all chairmen to make sure all point sections are filled out, so your candidate gets the maximum points.

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

HlEGiSlAtivEH

Chairman Rice read the minutes from the fall conference. The minutes were approved as read.

Chairman Rice informed the Committee about the new defense bill that has been signed by the U.S. president.

There was some discussion regarding VA backlogs. The VA claims that over 63% of claims filed are sitting for over 125 days.

Chairman Rice informed the committee that there is a new director of Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs. Sergeant Major James Brown will be replacing Tom Applegate and will address the Committee during the Joint Spring Conference.

Chairman Rice passed out a packet to all in attendance. He discussed HB 1030, HB 1046, HB 1047 and HB 1050. He discussed SB 115, SB 136, SB 166 and SB 177.

Department Commander

Richard Jewell addressed the Committee. He spoke on SB 177 and SB165. He discussed the unemployment rate is 18% for returning veterans, post 911.

Three resolutions were submitted and passed the committee. They will be forwarded to the Internal Affairs Commission. Resolution 1 regards maintaining a campus-based veteran representative at every state funded college or university. This was submitted by the University Veterans Post 360. Resolution 2 regards special needs of post-911 veterans. Resolution 3 regards excise tax credits for disabled veterans who do not own real estate properties.

Kenneth Hylton addressed the committee regarding legislative action needed for Bosnia and Grenada veterans to receive educational benefits. He stated that we need to have a resolution at both state and federal level.

There was some discussion from two members of Post 360 regarding having VA trained representatives on campus. There were no requests for department funds.

HMEMBERShipH

The minutes from the fall conference were read and approved.

Chairman Dzieglowicz announced the finishing places for the card turn in. The 8th District was awarded the turn in prize of three Pacer tickets. There was a brief discussion regarding utilizing Boy Scout troops in future membership roles. We need to utilize the media more than we have been, via newspapers, TV, radio and social networking.

College and universities were addressed as a possibility of forming posts on campus. We have veterans attending college now and we need to pursue these opportunities.

There was a discussion regarding the national organizations goal of 80% by this date. The department closed today at 82.75%. Kudos all around for all your hard work.

Commander’s Rep. Bruce Steffen spoke of the 713th National Guard unit deployed to Afghanistan and returned. A special license plate was made and presented to all those that returned.

Department Veteran Service Department Officer Joe Fuller offered help from the service office at any post or district function or event.

Chairman Dzieglowicz encouraged ever yone to stay focused and keep a positive attitude.

There were no requests for Department funds.

HNEw pOSt DEvElOpMENt/ REvitAlizAtiONH

The minutes from the fall conference were read and approved.

Chairman Hoffman asked for each district reports.

Kim Mezger, of the IUPUI

Post 363 reported that they are at 100% and doing well.

Executive Section Langley reported that he and the Department Membership Chairman Marty Dzieglowicz have been visiting universities to expand the University Post Initiatives.

There was a motion made regarding the committee coming up with some guidelines for closing a post and how to dispose of assets. The motion was seconded and passed with one dissenting vote. Department Assistant Judge Advocate Terry Smith recommended that all posts submit property deeds as they now do by-laws.

There was no department request for funds.

HpuBliC RElAtiONSH

A motion was made to grade the newsletters at close of books. Cliff Stephens, Mike Miller, Ron Hanger, Jerry Ward and Ron Taylor will be judges.

1st District Chairman O’Donnell led a brief discussion regarding Veterans Court. 2nd District Chairman James Warne reported his district has mentors working with Veteran’s court.

The 3rd District reported that they are having troubles getting post activities into the local papers.

The 4th District members are having issues with communications with the V.A. Hospital at Fort Wayne.

The 8th District has concerns regarding the key word search on the department website. There has been no action from the fall conference.

10th District reported that Post 182 purchased bronze plaques of the United States Constitution and donated to local high schools.

There was no further busi-

ness to be brought before the committee. There were no requests for Department funds.

HREliGiOuS EMphASiSH

Opening prayer was given by 6th District Chairman John French.

A motion was made to suspend the reading of the minutes from the fall conference. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.

Chaplain Keirn shared interpretation on the national chaplains “How To” manual. Hard copies will be available for each district at spring conference. The chaplain will electronically send the manual to anyone who submits their email address.

There was some discussion regarding the Department Service to God and Country Award. Chaplain Keirn passed out copies of the evaluation form. Each year the forms are sent into the department, tallied by Amy Bender and the top score is given the award at department convention.

There was a discussion regarding The Four Chaplains program in the districts and posts. The discussion moved to the joint spring conference program. Those who wish to participate are to submit names and materials to Chaplain Keirn.

A motion was made to adjourn. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously. There was further business to be brought before the Committee. There were no requests for department funds.

Closing prayer was given by Chaplain Ed Harris, Jr.

LeGiON NeWS

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School and Garret Kuhn of Greenfield High School for being American & Government winners. They were sponsored by Hagerstown Post 333 and Greenfield Post 119, respectfully.

The American Legion Riders of the district are in the planning stage to conduct the best State ARL rally ever. It will be held at the Fortville American Legion Park just north of Fortville on State Road 13 in June 21 – 23, 2013. Almost all of the basic work has been completed by Jim Cole (Post 70, Shelbyville), District ALR chairperson and his rally representatives, Nancy Carr and Rebecca Lobb Post 102, Morristown). I should again say that almost all of the work has been done by Jim, but most of the work of calling, coordinating and planning has been done by his representatives.

Another thought is that with 10 counties and many nursing homes in those counties, if you can and will, just stop by and inquire if there are any veterans residing in their facility. If so, go and visit with veterans and say a few words of encouragement. Thank the veterans for the service to their country. It just takes a few minutes and it could make someone, a veteran, feel good that someone other than his/her family cares.

Get out there and find those new, young and uninvolved veterans and make them members of the greatest veteran organization in the world.

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Indiana, or else we simply wait for a bad storm to sweep away our records.

Some Hoosiers want to preserve these records that protect our rights and document heroic men and women who fought and died for liberty, justice, and freedom. They think it is time that short-sighted state leaders stop ignoring the Indiana State Archives and take steps to preserve its vital records.

Indiana’s documentary treasures, including veteran’s records, need to be preserved. To do that, we must house them in a building strong enough to withstand high winds and that can hold out rain, snow, and floods. That building must also provide a consistent environment so that the records don’t cook. The current warehouse building can’t do any of those things.

I encourage Indiana veterans and their families to contact their legislators to voice your concerns about preserving Indiana veterans’ records and other documentary treasures. You can find your state senator and state representative by visiting this website: http://district.iga.in.gov/DistrictLookup/.

To learn more about private efforts to support the Indiana State Archives, visit the website of the Friends of the Indiana State Archives: www.fisa-in.org.

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positive results directed towards your goals.

Take the following example: The news article reads, “American Legion Post 000 will have a Chili Supper next Monday at 7PM. Please attend.”

The real reason for the supper was to raise money for the local fire department so why not tell the public that? Let’s try a rewrite.

The American Legion Post 000 will have a Chile Supper next Monday at 7PM; the proceeds will support our local Fire Department in the purchase of a new tanker. The American Legion Auxiliary will raffle desserts and the SAL Squadron 000 will prepare smoked ribs for sale. Please support our Community. For more information please contact our Post Commander, Joe Schmitt at 661-000 or alegion000@insightbb.com.

The more information we give the reader, the better we communicate our point. Remember the five ‘Ws’ they taught us in school; WHO, WHAT, WHEN, WHERE and WHY. Something else to always remember is the three ‘Cs’ of writing; CLEAR, CONCISE and CORRECT.

Around the district, I hear reports of community involvement and charity associated with The American Legion all the time. Post 44 in Newburgh told me that they provided

Christmas food baskets to 60 needy families in their area this year.

The 8th District Oratorical contest was held on Sunday January 6 at Jasper Post 147. We had three outstanding homeschooled contestants that all did a fabulous job. The district winner was Jackson Embry of Huntingburg. He will go to the Zone 4 competition which will be held February 17 on the Indiana University campus in Bloomington. We wish all the contestants good luck and truly appreciate the involvement and sacrifice of the students and their parents participating in The American Legion Oratorical Program.

Our East End 8th District membership chairman attended the meeting of the Henryville Post 105 last night. Most of you probably remember the devastating tornado that ripped through Henryville last year on March 2. Part of the discussion was community involvement. One of the people killed in the tornado was Wayne Hunter, the husband of Mrs. Lenora Hunter who still lives in the Henryville community. Wayne was an Army medic in Vietnam. When asked what Henryville Post 105 could do to help Mrs. Hunter, she asked for a flag pole in remembrance of her husband. Henryville Post 105 Commander Charlie Tabor and three other members of the post made that happen. They purchased and installed the new flagpole for Mrs. Hunter.

Post 5 in Mt. Vernon again wishes to thank everyone who

supported their first annual MEGA CASH RAFFLE. Because of the success of the raffle and donations from individuals and industries, they are in the process of purchasing a transport for the honor guard and have ordered an electronic marquee sign for Post 5.

As we speed toward the end of the 2012 – 2013 Legion year, let’s plan a little time to celebrate one of our very own, national Commander of The american legion – James e. “Jim” Koutz. Jim’s Homecoming celebration will be a two day event with Friday evening at Boonville Post 200 (Jim’s home post) and Saturday evening at the Holiday Inn Airport in Evansville, Indiana. Contact Ron Byrley for event reservations and information at 812-760-8280. For hotel reservations, please call the Holiday Inn Airport in Evansville at 812867-7999 and mention ‘James Koutz Homecoming’. I am told that there will be busses running between the hotel and Post 200 on Friday evening.

I need your input for the 8th District articles going into The Hoosier Legionnaire. If your post or someone in your post does something newsworthy, please send it to, Dave Sharber, by e-mail to wobegone@att. net or by mail at PO Box 493 in Mt. Vernon, IN 47620. We need newsworthy Legion, veteran and community-related information. Be proud of your post and your Legion Family. Share what they are doing. No gossip please, just the news.

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General Dentists, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon’s, Psychiatric Nurses (AR), Operating Room Nurses (AR), Nurse Anesthetists

(AR), Family Nurse Practitioners (AR), Entomologists, Social Workers and Clinical Psychologists. Please help us to get the word out to everyone in our area of these great opportunities, and refer anyone who you meet who is interested in a career in Army Medicine or has questions

and we will be glad to contact them.

Christoperh M. Christon, MHA, FACHE LTC, MS

3rd Medical Recruiting Battalion Commander christopher.christon@usarec. army.mil

Best Slogan Wins $500

as part of The American Legion’s strategy for better promotion, National Headquarters is asking for your submission for a ‘tagline’ or slogan in order to market the name and what we do. Submissions must be received no later than April 19. Email your brief slogan to tagline@legion. org.

If your ‘tagline’ is adopted during

‘Need A Lift’ Discontinued

Spring Meetings in May, you will receive $500 and a certificate of appreciation plaque signed by National Commander Jim Koutz.

Include your name and phone number when submitting your entry; only one entry per email submission is allowed. In the event of duplicate winning entries, the earliest received will be declared the winner.

Legion Airs Podcast

The American Legion is now airing a series of Internet radio broadcasts (or podcasts). The ‘LegionAir Report’ will deliver interviews and feature stories of interest to the veterans and military communities, as well as one-on-one conversations with prominent newsmakers, members of Congress, military leaders and government officials. The programs will be

hosted by national headquarters media specialist Craig Roberts, a former naval aviator and radio and radio news director, talk, show host, wire-service bureau chief and commentator.

The Legion’s first guest on the program was Indiana’s own, National Commander Jim Koutz, interviewed on January 14.

Warriors Receive Help

operation Comfort Warriors (OCW) is a program dedicated to meeting the needs of wounded, injured or ill military personnel by providing them with comfort items. OCW ensures that patients at U.S. military hospitals and warrior transition units are given items such as exercise equipment, rehabilitation gear, books, DVDs and more. OCW also provides larger items such as ping pong tables, enter-

tainment centers, computers, kayaks and other recreational goods for use by wounded warriors in common areas.

National Commander Jim Koutz has made Operation Comfort Warriors his primary fundraising program during his tenure. His goal is to raise $500,000. All donations made go directly toward the purchase of these comfort items. To donate contact: www.legion.org/ocw.

For 62 years, The American Legion ‘Need A Lift’ handbook and CDROM served as a comprehensive financial aid reference guide for veterans and their families. However, the Legion has discontinued its production, as people can easily search the Internet on their own for available scholarships and college information.

One interesting website is http:// www.finaid.org established in 1994 as a public service. It claims to be the most comprehensive source of student financial aid information, advice and

tools. The site also contains a section that provides information about student financial aid resources for students who are interested in pursuing careers in the military and for veterans and their dependents. Access to FinAid is free for all users.

However, for those parents and students who would like additional personal assistance, they should contact their school finance office, guidance counselor or the reference staff at their local public library.

Post 155 Hosts Training

all Department of Indiana Legionnaires are invited to attend a Temporary Financial Assistance Training Workshop on Sunday, March 24, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. The location is at American Legion Post 155, 852 W. Main St., Carmel, Indiana 46032. For more information contact 6th District Commander Darrell Bowman at 317-7180705 or Department Assistant Adjutant Buzz T. Smith at 317-630-1391.

It is imperative that post service

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disabled veterans, the socialization and camaraderie of the classes are just as important as the fishing outings, and provide them a new activity.

The Project relies on Federation of Fly Fishers, Trout Unlimited, and independent fly fishing clubs to conduct the program at the DOD and DVA hospitals across the nation. The volunteer staff and outings leaders include experienced fly fishers and

officers are aware of the program and are prepared to help a local veteran in need. Post officers are reminded that the program is not voluntary and that all employees of the post should know at the very least the location of a “TFA” application when asked.

Additional information is available on the national website at www.legion. org and on the Department website at www.hoosierlegionnaire.org.

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guides, all of whom donate their time and knowledge to support the Project participants.

In order to have a viable Project Healing Waters program, three groups must co-exist: a fly fishing club willing to provide the volunteers and organize the program, a DOD or DVA hospital willing to host the program, and wounded or disabled soldiers or veterans willing to participate. Because each of these groups is unique, no two Project Healing Waters programs will be exactly the same.

The local Project Leader is Rich LoBianco who can be reached at 317 219-9354 or email at richielobo@sbcglobal.net.

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