2012 June/July The Hoosier Legionnaire

Where There’s Smoke, There’s … Confusion And Bureaucratic Bumbling

The state-wide smoking ban which went into effect July 1, 2012, has prompted a frenzy of activity among Indiana’s American Legion posts, a frenzy which has included heated arguments, expensive renovation projects, and a significant degree of misunderstanding about the exemption available to fraternal and patriotic organizations.

Indiana’s statewide smoking ban is a complicated law. Despite the much heralded exemption for organizations such as American Legion Posts, the law does not grant a total exemption for any post under all con-

ditions. The bill, in simple language, does not exempt American Legion posts: it allows posts to designate one room of the post facility as a smoking area and apply for the exemption. Smoking in all other areas of the post facility will be prohibited.

Posts who are contemplating applying for the exemption face a daunting challenge. They must deal with rules that remain unwritten, conduct a vote of members only, complete an application, submit a floor plan, and await the stamp of approval from the Alcohol and Tobacco Commission. Until all of that is accom-

Convention Will Launch New Year, Honor The Old

New Commander In the Wings, Candidates To Make Their Cases; Outstanding Service To Be Honored And Hard Work Rewarded

The major party candidates for Governor of the State of Indiana will address the 94th annual convention of The American Legion, Department of Indiana during the opening session Friday, July 13, 2012, at the Indianapolis Marriott hotel East.

Republican candidate Mike Pence is scheduled to address the delegates at approximately 2:45 p.m. Democratic Candidate John Gregg is scheduled for approximately 4:00 p.m. Schedules for both the candidates and the convention are flexible, so delegates are encouraged to be patient and flexible themselves, said Commander Michael J. Miller.

“We will do our very best to keep to the schedule as published, but with events like this, changes are always possible. All I can ask of our delegates is that they ‘go with the flow.’ This is an exciting opportunity for the Department, and marks the first time in many years that candidates for such an important office have agreed to share their visions with the Legion. I am personally very proud to host these two gentlemen.”

The candidates’ appearance is a highlight of opening day, but it is not the only highlight. Two members of the Indiana Senate, Susan Glick and Ronnie Alting, also will be on stage to accept the Distinguished Public Service Award from Commander Miller.

Glick is being honored for her successful leadership in assuring passage of legisla-

tion that grants equivalency between military training and certain civilian occupations that require training and licensure, such as commercial driver’s licenses.

Alting, a previous recipient of the DPSA, is being honored for his long-time commitment to veterans and his successful efforts to forge the exemption for Legion posts under the newly enacted smoking ban. Alting was unsuccessful in producing a complete compromise, but he has committed to continuing the effort to beat back further intrusions on veterans’ rights.

During the closing session Saturday, July 14, delegates will elect the Legionnaire who will lead the department in 2012-2013 as Department Commander, along with a slate of nominees for Vice Commanders, Sergeant-atArms, and Finance Officer.

The annual conclave also will feature a presentation by representatives and clients of the Children’s Organ Transplant Association, presentation of the Distinguished Hoosier Award to Commander Miller by the director of the Indiana Department of Veteran Affairs, Tom Applegate, and greetings from the commander of several Indiana Veterans Service Organizations.

The American Legion’s National Convention Director, Dick Holmes also will address the delegates, providing information on the latest arrangements for the 94th National Convention to be held in Indianapolis in August.

Always a special moment for any convention is the presentation of the highest honor The Department can bestow on its members – the Distinguished Service Award. This year, five legionnaires have been selected to receive the honor, and will join the fewer than 150 other Legionnaires who have received the honor over the years. The DSA will be presented during the closing moments of the Saturday morning session.

The Department will also honor outstanding educators, military persons, and first responders by selecting one from among candidates nominated by the districts. There will be two educators, three military persons, and one police office, one firefighter, and one EMT person selected as tops in the state. The Department will also

plished, after July 1, 2012, the post will not be permitted to allow smoking anywhere in the post home.

Daniel Lawson, Adjutant of Jasper’s American Legion Post 147, has been through the effort – not once, but twice. Both times his post failed the inspection.

He told the Hoosier Legionnaire that, according to information provided by the State Excise Police and the Dubois County Health Department, “If the proper forms and procedures have not been filed with the ATC the facility must by law be non- smoking until an inspection is completed. If

you fail, you will go on the bottom of the list. Keep in mind within the state there are 59 officers and 92 counties. “I asked the officer the turnaround time between the mailing of the material and the inspection date. He responded by telling me that he was leaving the meeting and inspecting my post within the hour. He did and we failed.

“We have spent over $6,000 so far and still did not pass. The reason is simple. I just received the posters from the printers and was not able to post them. The contactor took

some hinges away from the self closing doors to modify them for leakage, and he has not installed the door strips around the top of the doors.

Once this is done we will be approved. The officer will return Monday and we will be certified,” Lawson said.

On June 25, Post 147 was re-inspected by the ATC.

“We failed again. The officer now wants us to replace the café style door leading from our bar to our kitchen. Last week these doors were not in question. The enforcement agency … has interpreted the law or bill as they see fit.”

Posts that vote to be non-

smoking do not need to take any action. On July 1, 2012, smoking in the post will be prohibited by law. Posts that subsequently wish to change the decision may vote to establish a smoking area and apply for the exemption at any time.

If the Post votes to allow smoking in the building, these are the steps necessary for the application to be accepted. Avoiding the fate of Post 147 is nevertheless not assured by this process, but it must be followed:

At a regularly scheduled post meeting, at which a

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New Interpretation Threatens Long-Standing

Veteran Benefit

A controversial re-interpretation of the law providing automobile excise tax relief to some disabled Hoosier veterans has come under fire by the Indiana American Legion.

Under the ruling, excise tax relief is no longer available to veterans who are unable to take advantage of the property tax relief accorded to veterans with VA-certified disability ratings.

Following his remarks during the 75th anniversary session of Hoosier Boys State, famed former Notre Dame football coach, inspirational speaker and member of the Board of Directors of Trine University Lou Holtz leaped from the stage to meet and greet the delegates who swarmed him for handshakes and autographs. One lucky delegate even scored a bear hug from the jubilant coach. Holtz joined Democratic candidate for Governor John Gregg and other featured speakers helping the program celebrate its Diamond Anniversary at the small Northeast Indiana University, home to the Hoosier Boys State program for four years.

Historic 94th Annual National Convention To Convene in Indy

The 94th annual National Convention of The American Legion is shaping to up to be one for the history books for Indiana.

Not only is Indiana once again the host department for convention, but a Hoosier Legionnaire is the leading candidate for the high office of National Commander.

Hoosier Candidate For Commander

If elected, James E. Koutz, will become just the fourth Hoosier ever elected National Commander and the first since Frank I. Hamilton was elected to the top spot in 1979. George N. Craig, who went on to be governor of Indiana, also served as national commander, having been elected in 1949, while Paul V. McNutt was elected in 1928.

Koutz, a past Indiana Department Commander and member of Boonville’s American Legion Post 200, launched his campaign for commander nearly two years ago, and has visited almost every Department in the Legion in his quest for the top spot. When those departments convene in Indianapolis for the convention, Koutz will greet them not only as their chosen candidate, but also as the President of the National Convention Corporation of Indiana.

The corporation is the official organization formed to provide support, volunteers, and access to local resources for convention planners at National Headquarters. Among the committees supporting the corporation and providing volunteers are the

National Convention Parade Committee, Distinguished Guest Committee, among others. The corporation also has formed a special committee to plan and conduct the National Convention Post Parade Party, a gala festival-style event designed to close out the traditional parade with a large dose of Hoosier Hospitality.

Post Parade Party

The Post Parade Party will begin at the close of the parade Sunday, August 26, 2012, on American Legion Mall between Meridian and Pennsylvania Streets in downtown Indianapolis. The Mall, home to both National and Indiana Department Headquarters, has become a favorite gathering place for festivals, concerts, and special events, and is the ideal venue for the Post Parade Party’s featured music, food vendors and Biergarten. The party is free and open to all, especially Hoosiers gathered downtown to view the parade.

General Sessions

As at all National Conventions, the general sessions of the 94th annual gathering will feature political figures, entertainers, guests from allied nations, national youth champions, and reports from Convention Committees responsible for veterans affairs, legislation, children and youth programs and national security. The sessions convene Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings, August 28-30.

In addition, a large exhibit area with more than a hundred exhibitors and vendors,

including National Flag and Emblem sales with a complete sales operation, will be open to delegates, alternates and guests. A convention badge is required for admission, and can be obtained only by registering for the convention as a delegate, alternate or guest. The registration fee is $25 per person, and includes unlimited access to the exhibit hall as well as to the convention floor for all sessions.

Hoosier Night

At Victory Field

The Department of Indiana also will put its best foot forward with the traditional Indiana Convention Party, always one of the hottest tickets at a national convention. This year’s party will be a Hoosier Night at Victory Field, home of the Triple A Indianapolis Indians. Beginning at 7:00 p.m. Monday, August 27, in the Coors Pavilion behind first base, the party will feature beer, soft drinks, hotdogs, brats, barbecue, and salads, all included in the price of admission

All Hoosier Legionnaires, regardless of whether or not they attend the convention, are invited to the Indiana party. Cost for the party is $25 per person, which includes unlimited food and drink until 9:00 p.m. as well as a reserved seat for the ball game. Tickets for the picnic and game can be purchased at the Department registration area in the J. W. Marriott Hotel in downtown Indianapolis, until the close of registration Saturday afternoon. For

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Indiana’s Department of Local Government Finance, has announced that the law, which historically has allowed disabled veterans to apply the unused portion of their property tax credit to their auto excise tax, even if they own no real property, has been mis-interpreted. The decision effectively cancels the practice, which until June of this year was included in the official guide to veterans’ benefits published by the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs.

The controversy centers over the use of 100 percent of the credit for automobile excise taxes by veterans who own automobiles but do not own real property subject to taxation. The American Legion position is that this reinterpretation unfairly singles out one group of disabled veterans for denial of the benefit while maintaining it for others. Younger veterans are particularly hard hit, since they are more likely not to own property than older veterans, and rely heavily on their automobiles for transportation to school, work and for family purposes.

The application of the property tax exemption to the automobile excise tax is described in one law, while the conditions under which a veteran qualifies for the exemption is described in another.

Sen. Susan Glick, a Republican member of the Indiana Senate from District 13 in Northeast Indiana, a staunch supporter of veterans’ legislation, has promised to discuss the interpretation with her colleagues in the Senate as well as with representatives from the DLGF. She will discuss her findings with the 2012-2013 Department Commander and other Legion leaders in early fall, who will then determine an appropriate course of action.

The Legion is arguing for a return to the original interpretation of the law. The alternative is to press for new, separate legislation establishing the excise tax credit as a specific benefit to disabled veterans.

“Gimme A Hug”

VETERAN INFORMATION VETERAN INFORMATION

DISTRICT 1

MEMBERSHIP MEMBERSHIP

DISTRICT 2

Larry Macy Commander

LEGION NEWS LEGION NEWS

led the parade of flags, and it was an magnificent sight to see. Chairman Ernie Komasinski, truly did an outstanding job along with his committee.

COMMISSION REPORTS COMMISSION REPORTS

With this being my last district update, I would like to say to all Hoosier Legionnaires, “Thank You.” The Department of Indiana is great because of our entire Legion family.

I can not believe this year as District Commander is at its end. When I was told it would fly by, all I could think of was, “yeah right.” It seems like just a few weeks ago I was being installed. I was filled with doubt and unsure of my leadership capabilities. I was scared to make mistakes.

SONS OF THE AMERICAN LEGION

DEPARTMENT CONVENTION DEPARTMENT CONVENTION

SONS OF THE AMERICAN LEGION

FEATURES FEATURES

Many of our cities and towns with the help of their local posts held Memorial Day ceremonies. In Highland, my home town, I had the pleasure and honor of speaking, along with my son Steven Butts, an Iraq and Afghanistan Veteran, and my brother MSG Joel Archuleta, a seven-time deployed veteran. Both are also members of Post 180. This was a very proud moment for my mother; it was truly a proud military family moment.

HOOSIER HAPPENINGS HOOSIER HAPPENINGS

What I have learned is that with the help from “seasoned” veterans, my advisors, (Tommy, Pete, John, Ernie, Fred, and Ralph), any challenge can be handled with ease.

I know we did not do as well as I would have liked with our District membership. I take personnel responsibility for the outcome.

CONFERENCE INFORMATION CONFERENCE INFORMATION

It is with heavy heart that I open this article for this issue of the Hoosier Legionniare. As I was preparing this article, we were notified that Past Department President Kittie Blackwell had passed away. Joe and Kitty have been good friends to us since we started in the District, and I know that she will be sadly missed by all of the Legion Family. Also, since the first of the year, we have lost three of our past District Commanders. Cal Cree (1989-1990), and Larry Lynn (2000-2001), we lost in February. Gerrit Van Kepple (1966-1967) just passed away in March.

trict Vice Commanders for their efforts in going around to all the posts. But the largest thanks go to the post members who have worked so hard this year on membership. Also a big thanks to those members who have sent their membership in without us asking or begging them to on time. It makes all of our jobs so much easier.

To those who did keep the Second District in first place during the Mid-Winter Conference turn-in, my special thanks, because, I had the privilege to attend the National Conference in Washington DC. What a wonderful experience it was.

DEPARTMENT NEWS NEWS

FALL CONFERENCE FALL CONFERENCE

Later that afternoon at Stoney Run County Park in Crown Point, the Vietnam Veterans Membership Committee held its annual Memorial Day Ceremony. President Ernie Komasinski again did an outstanding job. There were several dignitaries in attendance. I had the privilege of speaking, along with Peter J. Viclosky US Congressman, Department Commander Mike Miller, and several others. The DoD Honor Guard was also invited to fire the rifle volley and sound taps.

CONVENTION AWARDS CONVENTION AWARDS

I have an outstanding membership team; we have visited all posts in the district. I would like to acknowledge the hard work done by our team, Noreen Komasinski, chairperson, and four awesome Vice Commanders who I like to refer to as the “Fantastic Four:” James Grauvogl, Patrick O’Donnell, Bernie Tiltges and Billy Rose. Despite our efforts, we did make one new friend, Little Mikey.

We were able to go on the Lincoln Pilgrimage in February with the Department Officers and District Commanders. What an exciting trip it was. The Lincoln Memorial was nice to view but the new Lincoln Museum was just great. We learned more about Abe than I ever did in school. What I found most interesting were the political cartoons from the time period.

We dropped into second place in February, but turnin for March found us back in first place in the Department membership standing. Our thanks to all of the Dis-

CONVENTION NEWS

Little Mikey did contribute to our membership.

CONFERENCE NEWS CONVENTION NEWS NEWS

While visiting the First District we acquired four 100 percent posts: Kudos to Posts 16, 20, 54, and 279, and for the record, Post 54 is a 100 percent Family post; their Auxiliary and SAL also obtained 100 percent. Awesome job.

DEPARTMENT IN ACTION DEPARTMENT IN ACTION

The DoD Honor Guard is under the supervision of Don (Pinky) Teske, a life member of Post 100. I am proud to say I, too, am a member of this group. This organization covers our Fallen Heroes funerals throughout Lake County and parts of Illinois. If you are interested in volunteering, call Don at 219-763-3016. Practices are held on the last Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. at Post 100 in Lake Station.

Its time for your entries for awards to be turned into the district, including Teacher of the Year. Law Enforcement Officer, EMT, Firefighter, Boy Scout, and Military Person. All entries in each will be looked at and the district winner were chosen during the May District meeting in North Webster. I have been asked about the no-cost accidental insurance forms. I do not have any but, call customer service at 1-800-235-6943, and they can take care of you over the phone. Until next time. For God and Country

DISTRICT 3

Lawrence Parmley Commander

of post 400 meet with the Laporte County graves registration to receive flags to place on graves of veterans located in three cemeteries Salem Heights, Oak Grove and Sauk Town). The post had a military service with Honor Guard and Taps at each cemetery. The program started at Salem Heights Memorial Day at 9:30 am and ended at Post 400, A lunch was provided by the Ladies Auxiliary at the end of the service Post 210 elections and installation of officers was held in April. I want to thank the officers that served for the 2011-2012 term. The new officers for 2012-2013 are the following: Commander: Charlie Hostetler; 1st Vice: Sam Yoder; 2nd Vice: Doug Weaver; Adjutant: Margie Stilwell; Finance: John Doeden; Chaplin: Jack Kortie; Sergeant at Arms: Barry Weldy; Service Officer: Guy Stiles; Historian: Steve Rathka; Judge Advocate: Gary

O’Dell; E-board: Tom Cooke; E-board: Marty Bontrager; Eboard: Barry Weldy. An all-night vigil was held at Grace Lawn Cemetery to watch over our departed comrades, and some took a tour through the cemetery to witness a truly awesome sight at all the lights placed on our veterans’ graves.

April 12 we stood a flagline for Max Sherck, long-time member of the Legion, at the Miller-Stewart funeral home during the visitation. Then on April 14 we stood a flagline at Grace Lawn Cemetery along with the post honor guard. The honor guard and the Riders gave Max a respectful and honorable military graveside service.

April 18 we stood a flagline for Russell Burkhart, friend of Tom and Bettye Cook. Russell was a resident of Shipshewana and a World War II veteran. The visitation was at Miller-Stewart funeral home. Family and friends appreciated our being there. It was our privilege to honor Russell.

DISTRICT 4

Commanders for their guidance. Their willingness to give of their time and much needed advice when I needed it meant so very much to me. I will always be indebted to you.

A special thanks to my Membership Chairman Gary Parker and to my Public Relations Chairman Jim Tempe for jobs very well done.

AMERICANISM AND CHILDREN & YOUTH

AMERICANISM AND CHILDREN & YOUTH

May was Poppy Month. Several of our posts were out on the streets accepting donations in exchange for poppies, the memorial flower of The American Legion and Auxiliary. The Memorial Poppy is not only a personal tribute to those who gave their lives for our country; it also honors our disabled veterans.

On Saturday May 19 at Schererville Post 485, Voiture 470 conducted its first annual fundraiser steak fry. It was a success. All profits are going to assist students enrolled in nurse’s training. Thank you to all that attended.

On Sunday, May 27 in the Veterans Section of Calumet Park Cemetery, the First District held its annual Memorial Day Service. Color guards from all posts and auxiliaries were invited to participate. More than half the District participated. The following posts attended: 16, 20, 54, 80, 100, 180, 207, 232, 289, 369, 430, 485, and 508. The Marine Corps League 54 Howlin’ Mad Detachment

I would also like to give a shout out to Melinda Rayder. She is a Major in the US Army and a member of Post 100. She is also an American Legion Rider. She organized a group of First District Legion Riders, close to 20, along with Little Mike, to participate in this years Rolling Thunder.

The rest of my tour of duty will be spent doing installations with the Ceremonial Team. Our final installation will be on Aug 11 this will be my last duty as Commander.

I would like to say one final time, “Thank you,” Commander Miller, for the opportunity to grow into a better Legionnaire and having the privilege to serve as your First District Commander. I am truly grateful for the support and assistance I have received from the Department staff. Thank you for this year of challenges and friendships it is an experience I will never forget.

Thank you for your service and God Bless America. Thank you for the memories.

Post 83 Laporte: Families dressed in red white and blue were having picnics in the lawn and Veterans sat in folding chairs and on the benches along the park to participate in the La Porte’s annual Memorial day program. The ceremony was held in Fox Park’s Dennis F Smith Amphitheater by Hamon Gray American Legion Post 83.

Marching drums started the procession with patriotic celebration music the Laporte honor guard raised the American flag to half mast. Following was the National Anthem and the pledge of Allegiance lead by American Legion Post # 83 Past Commander Rodger La Gard. The opening prayer was spoken by Grand La Aumonier Charles Martin.

The speaker was Grand Chef DeGar Da of Indiana, Richard Richardson. He spoke on the roots of this city can be traced to the Civil War. Following Richardson The Department of Indiana Vice President of The American Legion Auxiliary Carol La Gard read the names of all veterans in La Porte county who passed away since the Previous Memorial Day. Memorial wreaths were placed onto white crosses, representing the wars of the U.S. from the Revolutionary War to the Middle East.

A benediction was spoken by American Legion Post 83 Chaplin Robert Truesdale. The ceremony ended with a salute to all deceased veterans. Post 297 New Carlisle: American Legion Post 297 Annual Easter egg hunt was April 7, 2012. Approximately 90 children scrambled looking for 240 dozen eggs laying on the ground next to the Legion. Among the eggs were gold eggs with $10 inside and silver eggs with $5 inside. There were three 3 gold and three silver. Over 200 people including children attended the Easter egg hunt. Each child received a chocolate bar. Seven Easter Baskets were given away for most eggs collected. And a drawing for three $25 gift cards was awarded.

The Ladies Auxiliary also held a bake sale with proceeds of $108 going to various Auxiliary projects.

For a change the May Post meeting was held at Hamilton Retirement Community and nursing home. Many of our veterans are located at this facility. This gives them a chance to be involved in the meeting with our regular members. The veterans look forward to our visits during the year.

At the first Veterans Benefits Awareness fair, hosted by Daniel Shepherd and Darryl Glanders, all veterans and their families were welcomed and encouraged to participate in the various events. Local organizations attending the fair included universities, investment firms, VA Health Care, career resources, financial services, Veterans Service Organizations, nursing home benefits, and representatives from Congressman Joe Donnellys office spoke on the New VA facility to be located in South Bend.

Post 154 Nappanee: Commander Ken Heckathorn at Nappanee American Legion Post 154 made a donation to Jay Sheets for the Boys of Summer baseball league in Nappanee on April 19. Commander Ken Heckathorn and American Legion Riders director Joe Marvel also presented a check to Director Kent Laudeman of the Robert Miller Veterans Center at South Bend.

Third District Event: Eileen Sullivan, Director of Christen’s Wish and the Indiana Case Worker for Operation First Response out of Virginia.( Christen is a 14 year old that lives with Autism,), just wants to make a difference for our veterans locally and statewide. She sponsored a Veterans Walk on May 16 at the cove. This walk was in conjunction with the Robert L. Miller Veteran Center. We also had the support of the Mayor’s Office, The Silverhawks, and DTSB, Inc.

Post 400 Fish Lake: The Post celebrated its 65th Anniversary May 6. Members

I will start my last newsletter by giving you an update to the status of the VA Hospital and the Air National Guard Base located in the Fourth District at Fort Wayne. As my deadline for this column rapidly approached, the U.S. House of Representatives voted for an appropriations bill containing $10.6 billion for military construction in fiscal 2013. The bill contained no provisions for the 122nd Fighter Wing in Fort Wayne. It did however appropriate $58 million for bases in South Bend, Peru, and Terre Haute. The bill also revealed no major projects for the VA Medical Center in Fort Wayne.

With this being my last newsletter I would like to take this opportunity to recognize a few people who have help me during my term as Fourth District Commander.

I want to thank the members of the Fourth District Auxiliary, the Fourth District Sons of The American Legion, and the Fourth District American Legion Riders. I need to mention that the Fourth District SAL has contributed a third of all monies received for Child Welfare in the Department. The Auxiliary and Riders have done an outstanding job in contributing their time and money to help our homeless veterans here in the Fourth District. I want to thank all of my friends in the Fourth District for all of the assistance that you have given me this year. I especially want to thank my officers for their support and the Fourth District Past

To the members of Grover Sheets Post 111, thank you. In May 2003 you sent a resolution to the Fourth District stating that you would support me 100 percent for an office in the District. As I advanced through the chairs of the District, you were always there to help and support me 111 percent, both spiritually and financially. I will always be indebted to you. I hope I represented Post 111 with the professionalism that you expected. (Ok Tom, it’s over. Bring back my stepladder.) And finally to the people in my life who mean so much to me and to whom I am so very, very thankful for. To my daughter Shannon, my son Dana, thank you for helping to keep my schedule straight and keeping me informed as to when and where I was supposed to be. And to my lovely bride Val, thank you for being by side. As always, when I needed you, you were always there with kind words of encouragement and a soft kiss. You were, and always be my very best friend. Starting with the very first step, this nine-year ride would not have been possible without your support, understanding, and love.

DISTRICT 5

Jerry Stevens Commander

April 18, 2012, marked the 70th Anniversary of the Doolittle Raiders’ Tokyo raid in 1942. For those of you that may not know, Jimmy Doolittle was a lifetime American Legion member of Kokomo Post 6 of the Mighty Fifth District. His lifetime American Legion membership card is on display at the Smithsonian Institute. Jimmy buzzed a house here in Wabash in 1927 as he was friends with the people that lived there and had visited them several times here in Wabash.

You might have noticed in the last issue of the Hoosier Legionnaire a picture of our own Fifth District future State Commander, Ed Trice, of Fairmount Post 313. He was sitting amongst other Legion dignitaries while at a meeting with a legislative aide to

Senator Lugar in Washington, DC.

The preparation to assume the role of our State Commander takes a lot of time and knowledge. It is a job you just do not step into. As Ed Trice devotes his full attention to getting prepared to take over the reins of our Indiana American Legion, we in the Fifth District can be proud of Ed’s efforts to prepare himself for this important role and rest assured that the Indiana American Legion will be in good hands with Ed at the helm when his time comes to take command. He follows in some mighty big Fifth District Past State Commanders’ shoes: Forrest Harness, Kokomo Post 6, 1929-1930; Wm. Nelson, Anderson Post 127, 1932-1933;

Gail Galich Commander

Charles Krumrine Commander

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VETERAN INFORMATION VETERAN INFORMATION DISTRICT

MEMBERSHIP MEMBERSHIP

LEGION NEWS LEGION NEWS

COMMISSION REPORTS COMMISSION REPORTS

Russell Rhodes, Peru Post 14, 1937-1938; Homer McDaniel, Dunkirk Post 227, 1949-1950; Bob Ayers, Frankfort Post 12, 1969-1970; Gaylord Sheline, Kokomo Post 6, 1973-1974; Gerald “Dutch” Bole, Van Buren Post 368, 1983-1984; Ron Miller, Van Buren Post 368, 1993-1994; and Roger Baker, Anderson Post 127, 2003-2004. These honorable gentlemen have set the bar high for Ed, that is for sure.

them. The worst thing they will do is say ‘no;’ who among us hasn’t heard that word a time or two? You might make a new best friend.

A big challenge ahead of us in the coming year is to revitalize Post 221 in Huntingburg. It can happen if we pull together with that Great Eighth spirit. Thanks again for all you have done for me and the American Legion this year.

Recently the Evansville Courier & Press ran a story with a little local American Legion history. Just west of Evansville there is a public recreational area known as Burdette Park. Burdette Park was born in 1928 as a meeting place for local American Legion members. The 40acre park was named for Everette Burdette, the first man from Vanderburgh County killed in World War I. WPACCC built a lake and shelter houses on the land.

programs to grow. I remember the late 60s and early 70s when no one (other than my family) was happy to see me in “their” post. But, as we all must realize, ladies and gentlemen, it is a different world now, and we as Legionnaires who wish this organization to continue and to grow must look at ourselves with new perspectives and new ideas about our Legion.

As I have said before, this is

not the same Legion I joined 40 years ago and I have no idea what it will be 40 years from now, but my guess is, in most towns across America there will be a small assembly of veterans in silly hats covered with even sillier pins reciting, “For God and Country we associate ourselves together…”

This has been one of the best years of my life. I look forward to continuing to be a Legionnaire.

SONS OF THE AMERICAN LEGION

Once again, American Legion Posts throughout the Fifth District performed their Memorial Day ceremonies with great honor. The citizens of our communities watch and listen to the speeches and rifle squad honors which are given to our fallen. I was down around the Dolly Wood area for a few weeks this May and attended a couple of shows.

SONS OF THE AMERICAN LEGION

knowledge us in such a manner showing the world that there were so thankful for our service. God bless them who did this and God bless those who have served and are serving today. Our Fifth District Commander, Jerry Stevens from Fairmount Post 313, has really stepped up to the plate and is handling Fifth District business daily. We in the Fifth District are proud of his efforts in keeping the Fifth District afloat. Commander Jerry and his side kick, Dick Thomas, continue to visit our District Posts to further promote The American Legion. They are doing a great job.

DEPARTMENT CONVENTION DEPARTMENT CONVENTION

FEATURES FEATURES

The group I was with has several veterans amongst its midst and at the end of each of the shows we attended they sang patriotic songs and had all the veterans stand up for the crowd to applause and the cast of the show all came off the stage and shook our hands and hugged us while they were playing patriotic songs. Now that gesture really hit home. It was a real genuine show of affection for our service. Really made you feel good that they would ac-

HOOSIER HAPPENINGS HOOSIER HAPPENINGS

And as their term of office draws to a close, they both want to thank all the Fifth District Posts, Post Commanders, Membership chairmen of the Posts, our Fifth District Officers, and our significant others for standing by us and helping in the effort this year to promote The American Legion as best we knew how.

CONFERENCE INFORMATION CONFERENCE INFORMATION

DEPARTMENT NEWS NEWS

FALL CONFERENCE FALL CONFERENCE

Commander Stevens said it has been a pleasure and honor for him to serve as your District Commander one more time. And a special salute goes out to our immediate Past Commander, Dewayne Dunn, for all his efforts early in the year to set the course for our District through his leadership. And as us Cubs fans always say, “We will get ’em next year.”

CONVENTION AWARDS CONVENTION AWARDS

DISTRICT 6

As Hometown Legionnaires, we do so many things in our communities that are simply thought of as everyday business. Eight District Vice Commander Don Henderson told me that Marengo Post 84 gave out two scholarships in May to students at Crawford County High School.

I know that a lot of Legion posts do the same thing and some might say that it’s no big thing but it really is a big thing. We do these things in our communities. It’s who we are.

Honor Guard Commander/Post Commander Max Dieterle of Mt. Vernon Post 5 said we placed over 1,500 flags on veterans’ graves in local cemeteries around Mt. Vernon this year. Post 5 is certainly not the only post that decorates cemeteries for Memorial Day but like all the others, we do it with pride.

We, the Hometown Legion Posts, are vital and positive influence in our communities. There are a lot of people out there eligible for membership in the “Legion Family” if we would just ask.

In 1934 American Legion Post 187 donated the land to Vanderburgh County, which turned the property over to the Works Progress Administration to expand and develop. In addition to the original shelter houses, the now-164 acre park features a landscaped miniature golf course, party houses, overnight chalets, batting cages, tennis courts, baseball fields, a soccer field, the oldest BMX bike track in the U.S., fishing lakes, a 37-mile bike trail that loops through the Ohio River Bottoms, and primitive and RV campgrounds.

The Jean Cook Tree Memorial lines a walking, bike, and nature trail that leads all the way to the University of Southern Indiana and has been recognized by the U.S. Department of the Interior. The Aquatic Center now covers three acres and houses four large water slides, four kiddie slides, a waterfall and a tropical spray park. Because of the generosity of a Legion Post in 1934 thousands of people enjoy the park annually.

DISTRICT 10

We bring greetings from the Tenth District and are all looking forward to an exciting summer. As the final days are approaching before the Close of Books, District Posts are continuing to increase their membership, even those that have attained 100 percent already.

Mikey” was there also. I can’t say what business he had in Washington, D.C. but he had a smile on his face and then as quickly as I first saw him, he just disappeared.

This has been an exciting Legion year for me and also a great learning experience. It was regretful that Carolyn had to leave the state, however, being with and providing support to a loved one is far greater endeavor. And being accepted by my District to carry on for another year as its Commander is an honor and hopefully together we can succeed in maintaining and developing new and obtainable goals for the District.

CONVENTION NEWS

CONFERENCE NEWS CONVENTION NEWS NEWS

Darrell Bowman Commander

It doesn’t seem like a year has gone by for 2011-2012, but it has and it has been a busy year. I want to thank all of the District Officers and Post Commanders that assisted me for this year. If you would like to be on committees, then let me know asap.

DEPARTMENT IN ACTION DEPARTMENT IN ACTION

DISTRICT 9

James Tracey Commander

The June district meeting at Post #182 in New Palestine will culminate in electing dele-gates for the National Convention after which Organizational Day will be conducted at Middletown Post 216 on July 22 for a new Legion year, a new Department Commander from the Tenth and the same old District Commander. With that said, we can only march forward until the Close of Books with every fiber of being in getting that last membership card turned in be-fore that day. If you have a prospective new member presently, don’t hold back and wait until next Legion year to turn his in membership application, do it now and somehow make amends later.

AMERICANISM AND CHILDREN & YOUTH

Traveling around the District, I have meet members and veterans. Most of them would like to know if their benefits will be protected or not. The only thing I was able to tell them was to come to the Department conferences and sit in on the committees. That way you get firsthand information and ask questions to the proper people.

It is amazing how the different posts operate and what they are doing in the community. Some are out going door-to-door to get donations for the programs they are doing. Others do not have a post home but are working on building their post. Some are recovering from disaster, but still have time to give to others that have nothing.

Each Post is unique in its own way and doing the best they can for themselves and the community. All of the members of the American Legion family should be proud of what they are doing.

Membership was not up to where I would have liked it, but I know some of the problem was the economy. I hope that everyone got their membership cards turned in at Close of Books. A new year is coming and I know that all the Posts will be looking at getting 100 percent renewal. While visiting Post 288 in Veedersburg, I was able to meet a member, Mr. Carl Butts, who has 70 years in The American Legion. I do not recall ever meeting a member with that many years as service to the American Legion. Congratulations for serving.

AMERICANISM AND CHILDREN & YOUTH

Greetings to my fellow Legionnaires. For my last letter, (most of which was originally intended to be a part of my first letter but, well, that’s another story) I would like to thank you all for supporting me and allowing me to serve as your District Commander for the past year.

talgic because I have also learned that we all need to look forward, not back. And I wanted to continue to move the Ninth District forward, and, with the help of my fellow Legionnaires, I think I (we) have.

Looking ahead for next year, we have great many programs that needs to be addressed and issues taken care of. The veterans in nursing homes or assisted living have needs that most of us do not know about.

Visit your nursing homes locally and find out what they need.

I hope to see all of you at the Department Convention in July and the National Convention in August.

Pray for the troops who are still in harm’s way. May you be with your God, Country and have the honor to serve your fellow veteran and their families.

DISTRICT 8

Ed Giltner Commander

What a year this has been -- one of the most memorable in my life. The Eighth District has had a great year, because of the many good people in the Eighth who have pulled together for another very successful membership year. In the middle of working membership we also managed to pull together and support Jim Koutz for National Commander with numerous fundraisers and donations. It truly has been a great year, not because I am a great leader but because I had a great team. Thank you one and all.

I truly hope that Dan Lawson, my successor, enjoys the same teamwork and positive spirit that I have. There are

many challenges ahead as we work, not just in the Eighth District of Indiana but nationwide, to stop the erosion and turn the corner to positive membership growth. If we are to survive as the great veterans’ organization we have become, this must happen. It starts with you and me and each and every one of us.

Membership truly is everyone’s job. It is the one on one contact with individuals in our everyday life that makes it work. There are clues all around us, if someone is wearing a cap that says Army on it; chances are they’re a veteran. JUST ASK

As I said at my election, I have been involved in the Legion for many years and I remember many of those who are no longer with us that showed me a lot of what the Legion is all about. They may not have known that I was their “student,” but I realized back then that these guys knew what they were doing and how to do it and if I paid attention to them and how they did what they did, I could to learn more of the purpose of this veterans’ organization and that it was more than the words on the banner that we recited at the meetings.

At the risk of leaving some names out, I would like to remember some of these guys. “Red” Nowlin, whose passion was Hoosier Boys State; Gene Wilson, who showed me what the word “comrade” meant; Alvin and Alton Heller who knew how to enjoy doing children and youth programs as much as they did golf; my uncle Dick, who showed me how to be involved and how to be a Finance Officer; my brother, Jeff, who taught me that you play the hand you are dealt; and one of my truest teachers, Lowell Sullivan, who was tireless in his dedication to the Legion and all of our programs. I want to remember how these men, especially Lowell Wayne, conducted themselves and Legion business and if I have been, in some way, what these Legionnaires were to me, and a combination of those attributes they taught me, I will have been successful as a District Commander. I believe they were all with me this year.

While I do remember, and will continue to remember, these Legionnaires, I don’t wish to come off as too nos-

I have heard, for several years, the criticism of the “bar Legions.” Please allow me to voice my opinion.

Just because your Legion has a canteen, you are not a bar. Just because your Legion plays bingo and has pulltab machines, you are not a gambling hall. Just because your Legion has a juke box and pool tables, you are not a corner pub. You are an American Legion. You (we) are an organization of veterans. If you are to participate in Legion programs, you need to generate not only the enthusiasm of your members to run these programs, but you need the financial resources to fund these programs. I know you don’t have enough volunteers to participate in all programs. There may be some Legions out there who do, but I’ve not seen any yet, just as I have not seen any Legion that does no programs. If you have a Legion Baseball team, if you send a boy or two to Boys’ State, if you award a scholarship, if you march or ride in a parade, if you place grave marker flags on Memorial Day, if you have a funeral detail -- you get my drift -you are an American Legion.

The cynical veteran or non-veteran down the street may not get what we do or why we do it, but that is his or her misfortune. Whether or not we can convince our fellow veterans to join us is immaterial. We need to keep up what we do regardless of any criticism either internal or external. We need to continue what we do regardless of how my members we have.

Of course, I agree we should all do what we can to encourage or convince others to join us and allow not only our membership but our

But how things are changing, Liberty Post 122 has elected its new officers last month and all are post-Vietnam era veterans. After all, most of us that served in that conflict, (Call it what you want, it was war) are getting up there in the years. A 17-year old there in 1973 is in his late 50s and I don’t believe there were that many over there then, so I guess that leaves us in the 60s and 70s left to carry the torch.

And speaking of carrying the torch, May 27 saw a few of us from Indiana sitting in the Pentagon south parking lot and, lo and behold, “Little

There are some Posts that are finding it difficult to keep their heads above water in these difficult times and others that are doing a great job in maintaining numbers. Those posts that are doing well are those that go after the prospective and eligible veterans. And by going after, I mean they meet them at church, at town councils, little league baseball games and other activities.

They are the newest generation of warriors and are busy making a living and raising families and we need as Legionnaires to go to their AO’s and recruit them again.

And again, there’s a bounty for every new prospective member that a Post brings in by its Legion members’ of $5.00, so if my math is right 10 new members recruited by a post member would equal $50 bucks for that individual. The 10 District requires only 488 more membership cards before June 10 to be a 100 percent district, so go get’em Tenth.

DISTRICT 11

I am pleased to announce that the Eleventh District is now home to eight 100 percent posts: Newly chartered INVETS Post 311 and University Veterans Post 360; John H. Holliday, Jr. Post 186; Police Post 56; Kenneth N. Dowden-Wayne Post 64; Indianapolis Women’s Post 438; Tillman H. Harpole Post 249; and Acton-Bunker Hill Post 220! Congratulations to these posts and hopefully the number of 100 percent posts will continue to grow between the time of this writing and Close of Books.

Recently a group of Legionnaires, Ladies Auxiliary, Sons, and Riders from the Eleventh District visited the Indiana Veterans Home in Lafayette to pass out fruit to residents. After the fruit pass out, we hosted more than 30 residents at West Lafayette Post 492 for a meatloaf dinner and dancing to music provided by a DJ. The residents had a great time and so did the volunteers from the Eleventh District and Post 492. Many thanks to our volunteers, Post 492, and Kenneth N. Dowden-Wayne Sons of The American Legion Squadron 64 -- who graciously provided the funding for this event. It was great to see the entire American Le-

gion Family of the Eleventh District join together to serve our veterans at IVH.

On Memorial Day, I was honored to be the speaker at Acton-Bunker Hill Post 220’s Memorial Day Service which was held at Raymond Park Middle School. During the ceremony a WWII veteran, SSG Wayne Bucy, was awarded a long-overdue Bronze Star Medal which he earned during WWII in 1944. Due to the hard work of one Legionnaire, Post Adjutant Jack Hensley from Post 220, SSG Bucy was finally awarded this decoration -- 68 years after earning it.

The ceremony was attended by more than 150 patriotic citizens and included a local United States Marine Corps JROTC unit, the Indianapolis Municipal Band, and Beech Grove Post 276’s honor guard. The ceremony was covered by local network affiliates WISH and WRTV, reflecting The American Legion as an organization truly dedicated to remembering our fallen and honoring our living veterans. Recently, the Eleventh District has been contacted by local veterans seeking financial help due to

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Jere Riggs Commander

Richard Brown Commander

Twice a year, in June and December, the Department of Indiana presents it Honor Roll of Deceased Comrades in the Hoosier Legionnaire. This reports consists of the names, posts and continuous years of membership of all those who passed to Post Everlasting during the preceding six months – and whose deaths have been reported by their posts to Department Headquarters. The Department Officers and staff join these members’ loved ones in mourning their passing and pray for peaceful rest for our departed comrades and comforting memories for those they have left behind.

VETERANS

NATIONAL CONVENTION

NATIONAL CONVENTION

New Rules Apply To VA Non-Service Connected Pension

DISTRICT NEWS DISTRICT NEWS

VA has made some changes in its non-service connected pension program and pension filing procedures, so the following information supersedes our last article concerning VA non-service connected pension published in August 2009:

VETERAN INFORMATION

VETERAN INFORMATION

MEMBERSHIP MEMBERSHIP

John Hickey Department Service Officer

is calculated, VA normally pays the benefit in twelve monthly installments.

ous spouses.

LEGION NEWS LEGION NEWS

income and income from other household member reduces the non-service connected pension benefit dollar-for-dollar.

COMMISSION REPORTS COMMISSION REPORTS

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

Non-service connected pension is adjusted upward when the number of the veteran's dependents increase and downward when the veteran loses dependents. A dependent includes a spouse, child, or stepchild. The child or stepchild must be under age 18, or under age 23 and attending school. The stepchild must have acquired

Shortly before a dependent child’s 18th birthday, the veteran should complete and return a VA form 21674 if the child will remain in school after becoming 18 years of age. This will allow the claimant to keep the child as a dependent for VA purposes until the child either stops attending school or reaches the age of 23.

benefits is assumed if the veteran is a patient in a nursing home, but residency in assistant living facilities do not automatically meet the SMP disability requirement.

SONS OF THE AMERICAN LEGION SONS OF AMERICAN LEGION

DEPARTMENT CONVENTION DEPARTMENT CONVENTION

FEATURES FEATURES

HOOSIER HAPPENINGS HOOSIER HAPPENINGS

CONFERENCE INFORMATION CONFERENCE INFORMATION

VA will now concede that the veteran meets the permanent and total disability requirement if the veteran is a patient in a nursing home, has been determined totally disabled by the Social Security Administration, or is at least 65 years of age. Veterans serving for the first time after September 7, 1980 must have served at least 24 months of active duty or the full time for which they were called to serve unless they were discharged due to a service connected disability.

This non-service connected pension benefit ensures the veteran an annual income. The amount is usually increased each year with a cost of living adjustment. Most all the claimant’s other

DEPARTMENT NEWS NEWS

The total amount of the veteran’s un-reimbursed family medical expenses over 5 percent of the basic pension benefit is used to reduce the amount of income from other sources counted against the non-service connected pension benefit. All expenses the claimant must pay toward the cost of nursing home care (over the 5 percent deduction) may be subtracted from the countable income for VA pension purposes. VA will also allow the costs of assisted living facility expenses or home care expenses for reducing the claimant’s countable income for VA pension purposes. To be allowed, the VA must determine that the claimant’s medical condition meets the disability requirements for entitlement to VA Special Monthly Pension (SMP) Housebound or SMP Aid and Attendance benefits. The same is not true for veterans entitled to only the basic VA pension. Once the pension

FALL CONFERENCE FALL CONFERENCE

CONVENTION AWARDS CONVENTION AWARDS

otherwise thought eligible for Special Monthly Pension, he or she may best apply for the additional allowance by having a doctor complete a VA form 21-2680. The VA form 21-2680 should accompany the application for non service connected pension benefits (VA Form 21-527EZ).

The following are examples of several 2012 non-service connected pension rates for veterans and the surviving spouse:

that status before the age of 18 while living as a member of the veteran’s household.

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

The veteran should use a VA Form 21-527EZ when filing a non-service connected pension claim. Veterans applying before their 65th birthday should also obtain and submit, with the application, copies of any recent non-VA medical records that could help VA understand the current severity of the veteran’s medical impairments.

Higher non-service connected pension allowances are also paid when veterans are either housebound or in need of aid and attendance from another person because of disability.

The disability requirement for special monthly pension (SMP) aid and attendance

Post Service Officer Training Provides Essential Information

To apply when the veteran is a nursing home patient, a letter from the nursing home noting when the veteran became a patient in that facility and stating the cost of nursing home care should also accompany the veteran's application (VA Form 21527EZ) for pension benefits.

The nursing home letter should also note if Medicaid is paying the veteran’s nursing home expenses, and, if so, when Medicaid started paying those expenses.

If a veteran without a spouse or other dependent is a patient in a Medicaid paid nursing home, VA will pay only the qualifying veteran $90 per month. This $90 benefit, however, is solely for the claimant’s personal use and cannot be applied to the cost of nursing home care or attached by Medicaid.

If the claimant is not a nursing home patient but

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

Also, the qualifying veteran’s surviving spouse is entitled to a non-service connected survivor’s pension. Although the spouse does not have to be totally disabled, the survivor’s pension rates are much lower. The surviving spouse’s claim is filed using a VA form 21-534.

Anyone who needs further information concerning VA non-service connected pension benefits may contact their local County Veterans Service Officer or The American Legion, Department of Indiana Service Office. The American Legion provides free representation for veterans with VA claims.

columbarium niche cover.

The 2012 New Post Service Officers Training Seminar will be Sunday, July 15, 2012, 8:00 a.m. to noon at the Indianapolis Marriott Hotel, 7202 East 21st, Indianapolis, Indiana.

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Editor’s Note: The American Legion Department of Indiana Veterans Service Office will be open each Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. during the month of June. 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 317-226-6645; or by using the following e-mail address: vsohickj@vba.va.gov.

DEPARTMENT IN ACTION DEPARTMENT IN ACTION

be determined.

Scheduled topics include post service officers’ duties and responsibilities, ethics, the rehab program, homeless veterans program, claims representation, veterans service and membership, avoiding common mistakes, newly discharged veterans consultation checklist, replacing the DD Form 214, disability compensation, non-service connected pension, survivors compensation and pension, burial benefits, the appeals process, military correction and review board issues, concurrent receipt and combat related special pay, and VA medical benefits, and fully developed and informal claims. Department Service Officers will also conduct an open panel discussion to help answer any and all veterans’ benefits and service issues of concern to the audience.

Bronze Medallion

quorum is declared to be present, the post must vote on the question of whether or not it wishes to permit smoking in the building. Detailed minutes of the meeting should be taken, because they must be submitted to the ATC with the application for exemption. This vote must have occurred sometime within the past two years, not earlier than July 1, 2010. It is not necessary that a special meeting be called for this purpose.

AMERICANISM AND CHILDREN & YOUTH

Service officers in attendance will also receive a computer disc containing The American Legion Department of Indiana Post Service Officers Training Manual, Training Certifica-

tion Test, claims research information, forms link for federal and State benefits, and a Veterans Benefit Power Point presentation for post presentations.

AMERICANISM AND CHILDREN & YOUTH

This seminar will help American Legion posts assist its members with veterans benefit issues, and improve membership through services. Pre-registration is not required. All post service officers are encouraged to attend. The training session is free.

Post Service Officers Guide Discontinued

Beginning this year, The American Legion National Veterans Assistance and Rehabilitation (VA&R) Division will no longer printi the Post Service Officer Guide. VA&R is currently developing a new Department Service Officer book and a Know Your Benefits Guide, an abbreviated summary of health, claims and other VA benefits. Both of these new guides will replace the PSO guide. Completion dates are yet to

Grave Markers

VA now offers bronze veterans status medallions for attaching to existing privately purchased headstones or markers. VA can furnish these instead of a traditional government headstone or marker for veterans whose death occurred on or after November 1, 1990 and whose grave in a private cemetery is marked with a privately purchased headstone or marker.

The medallion is available in three sizes: 5 inches, 3 inches, and 1½ inch in width. Each bronze medallion features the image of a folded burial flag adorned with laurels and is inscribed with the word “Veteran” at the top and the branch of service at the bottom. The next of kin will receive the medallion, along with a kit that will allow the family or the staff of a private cemetery to affix the medallion to a headstone, grave marker, mausoleum or

VA’s new application for ordering the medallion is a VA Form 40-1330M. You may find it at: http://www. va.gov/vaforms/va/pdf/ VA40-1330M.pdf or by contacting the VA regional office, you local County Veterans Service Office, or The American Legion Department Service Office.

Veterans Employment Alert

The Federal government is taking notice of an veterans employment and training issue that the State of Indiana addressed in the last session of the Indiana General Assembly: the issue of equivalency between military training and experience and certain civilian occupations.

On March 7, U.S. Rep. Jeff Denham (CA-19) and Rep. Tim Walz (MN-1) introduced the Veterans Skills to Jobs Act, H.R. 4155, to streamline the bureaucratic processes for veterans with relevant training to get jobs when they return home. Later that month, a companion bill, S. 2239, was introduced in the Senate by Sen. Bill Nelson (FL) and cosponsored by Sens. Olympia Snowe (ME), Amy Klobuchar (MN) and Richard Blumenthal (CT).

The Veteran Skills to Jobs Act helps address the unacceptably high rate of veteran unemployment by directing the head of each federal department and agency to treat relevant military training as sufficient to satisfy training or certification requirements for federal license, so that veterans can get back to work quickly.

Upon separation, many service members certified as proficient in their military occupational career, are not licensed or certified to perform the comparable job in the civilian workforce, thus hindering chances for immediate civilian employment and delaying career advancement. This situation creates an artificial barrier to employment upon separation from military service.

The Post must download, or request, an “Exception From Smoking Ban” form from the Indiana State Excise Police. The form is available on the ATC website, www.in.gov.atc or by phone at 317.232.2469.

The Post must submit the completed form, along with a copy of the minutes of the meeting at which the members voted on smoking and a floor plan showing the designated smoking area.

The Post will continued to be a non-smoking Post until the ATC completes a physical inspection of the proposed smoking room, based on the application for exemption.

The proposed smoking room must be “a separate, enclosed designated smoking room or area that is adequately ventilated to prevent migration of smoke to non-smoking areas of the premises.”

The Department of Indiana requested clarification directly from the ATC on four questions that seem to be critical to our members’ understanding of the new smoking law. They include:

TAL: Can an American Legion Post ... permit smoking in all areas of the facility if it bans those under 18 years of age from entering at any time?

ATC: No.

TAL: Can any Post facility be totally exempt from the smoking ban?

ATC: Only if it is one single room and meets all other requirements.

TAL: Does the fraternal club exemption apply to only one designated room in the exempt facility in all cases?

ATC: Yes.

TAL: Once the “Exemption From Smoking Ban” form is submitted to the ATC, does the Post automatically receive the exemption and can it immediately permit smoking?

ATC: No. “The floor plan must be approved by a visit by ATC to approve the smoking room exception and until it is approved by the ATC, the room will be non-smoking until such time that it has been approved by the ATC.

Additional restrictions included in the smoking ban and which apply to all posts that permit smoking include:

Smoking is prohibited within eight feet of an entrance to the Post facility. Outdoor covered patio or deck areas that are connected to the building are not exempt from the smoking ban. Separate “butt huts” are.

Signs, available from the ATC at the website listed above, must be posted advising patrons and visitors of the smoking status of the building.

Finally members should remember that local governments are empowered by the new law to enact additional smoking restrictions, and those local ordinances -- if they are more stringent than the state law -- take precedent.

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Commander Gets The Last Word: Thank You All CONVENTION

AWARDS CONVENTION AWARDS

Greetings Hoosier Legion family from a very grateful and humbled nearly past Department Commander.

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CONVENTION NEWS

and John F., you guys are the best and I won’t forget your friendship either.

sired results but it was not because of the lack of hard work on your part.

thanks for everything you folks do to make the Department run more smoothly.

best times of our lives. You’re the best!

DEPARTMENT IN ACTION IN ACTION

I was told how fast my year would go and everyone was right! It flew by but even so, Joy and I take some lasting memories with us as we complete our year and say hello to a new Commander for 2012-2013. From the first pitch in Rockport to the Girls State Veterans Appreciation Night in Terre Haute and all places in between, it has been a great year meeting many folks who I am sure will remain our friends for years to come.

I want to thank all of YOUR officers who did a great job of representing the

Department of Indiana this year. First, my Sergeant-atArms, Dick Fuchs, for traveling with me on the many occasions that Joy was unable to accompany me. His company and companionship will never be forgotten. To the Vice Commanders who always were there whereever I was and who filled in for me when I was double-booked, thank you so much. John W., Allen, Jim

AMERICANISM AND CHILDREN & YOUTH AMERICANISM AND CHILDREN & YOUTH

To Bill, the hard working membership chairman for the Department this year, our end result wasn’t what we planned for, but not because we didn’t give it the best shot possible. There is still work to be done and hopefully, the next regime will turn that trend around next year. Thanks for the hard work you have put in to promote membership this year.

To the hardest workers, the District Commanders and membership chairmen, thank you for your never ending hard work. Again, we didn’t achieve our de-

Ready For What’s Coming Our Way

June and July are very busy months for the Department Headquarters. It is during these late spring and early summer days that we close the books on our membership program by calculating the years total, determining prize and award winners, and rolling over the system in preparation for receiving the new year’s transmittals.

At the same time, we make the final administrative arrangements for Hoosier Boys State and prepare to launch the Department’s Legion Baseball Teams. We put the finishing touches on the Department Convention, prepare the script and agenda, and begin the painstaking task of fitting it all into two and a half days of meetings.

We find time to prepare budgets, balance the books and, begin planning in earnest for our participation in the annual National Convention – made even more challenging this year by our

Dagley Department Adjutant

Department’s hosting of the convention right here in Indianapolis.

Some of us continue a heavy load of interviews to assure that our veterans get the benefits to which they are entitled, while planning special convention training and assistance programs. Others see that the families of veterans get the assistance and support that our members have set aside for them, and some of us answer a hundred phone calls or more a day.

It’s a busy time. We wouldn’t have it any other way.

And we are ready for everything coming our way. You can be assured of that.

For all of us, serving the

men and women of The American Legion Department of Indiana is more than a job. It is a privilege, and all of us take our responsibilities seriously. We find time to laugh, of course, have some fun, eat lunch together and, occasionally get on each others’ nerves. But it’s all hangs together because we do, and because you hang with us.

It has been a privilege and an honor to serve under Commander Miller this year We won’t soon forget his kindnesses, his commitment, and his fair dealing. And we all look forward to serving next year’s commander with the same enthusiasm and determination. This time of year is always a difficult time, as we transition from one style of leadership to another, from one personality to another, but we manage it seamlessly each year. That is a testament to the character and commitment of the men you send us to serve.

I can’t forget the two National Officers that we are so fortunate to have. Darrell and Paul, you are both a huge asset to the Department of Indiana and represent us so well on the National level. The respect you both have earned from the other departments and the many National Commanders you have served with speaks volumes of your commitment to the American Legion and the Department of Indiana.

And, to the rest of the officers, Hugh, Dewayne, Chaplain Keirn, Tony, Dave R., Joe B., Terry, John, Dave W., Jerry, Joe F., and Duane;

And, to the best Department Staff the membership could ever ask for -- Becky, Aubrey, Susan, Amy, Heather, Lori, Buzz, Joe, and Bernie -- without your hard work, I don’t know how the department would survive. Thank you for all that you folks do for the Department. And lastly, I can forget to thank the one person who was my harshest critic, and who kept me going in the right direction all year, dressed with clean clothes and who made sure my tie looked right, my wife Joy. Thanks for being by my side this year to share one of the

Now, in closing, I sort of mentioned that we have a job left unfinished and that is the growth of The American Legion. I firmly believe that until we get the American Legion “bars” back to being posts, our membership won’t grow. We have to show the young troops that we’re there for them and that we are ready to change to fit their lifestyle. Anyway, enough of my preaching. Thank you all for a great year, for the hospitality we received this past year and for friendships that we won’t forget.

For God and Country, Commander Mike.

It is no secret that the Department of Indiana has experienced a serious decline in its membership over the past decade and a half. What is not known is that the Department of Indiana has experienced no decline in the level of service or quality of the programs we provide to our fellow veterans and citizens. It is true that when our membership declines our pool of volunteers shrinks, our revenues recede, and our opportunities become fewer. Despite all of that, the Department of Indiana remains on solid footing. Now is not the time pull back, to sell out, or to panic over the future. Membership will rebound, revenues will climb, and we will continue to battle for veterans and their families on every front.

I am proud of your staff. I am proud of your leaders. And I am proud of you. Thank you for the opportunity to serve.

‘Still Serving America’ Is More Than A Slogan

I was looking at an article in a book on our coffee table that said, “Teachers make a difference.” As I thought about it, I thought as an educator that I had helped make a difference. As a politician, I like to think that I also made a difference. As a past chef and Director of Nursing scholarships for Voiture 612, 40&8, I helped make a difference in student’s lives. I know the many things that I have been able to do as a Legionnaire have made a difference.

All of this led me to think about what a great organization that I belong to named The American Legion, as well as the great things this orga-

nization does to make a difference.

The slogan, “Still Serving America” certainly does apply when we think about it. Consistently we serve as color guards at funerals and special ceremonies. The number of volunteers and donations made in the wake of recent tornado damage made by our membership

was tremendous. Gracious, how many fundraisers have Legionnaires worked or help sponsor?

Nearly every Legion Post is involved in some kind of children and youth program. We support our local fire, police and emergency personnel. Visiting legislators to talk about veterans issues has paid dividends in our support of those who have and are serving in the military. I could go on and on, but the point is that you should all pat yourselves on the back for making a difference by still serving America.

On the legislative front, I found something that was

The American Legion: Beacon of Hope And Outstretched Arms

My “deployment” to Okinawa is nearing an end. I have tickets secured to return in time for Department Convention. This will most likely be the only time in our lives that we will have two of our children living in the same place. We have the Marines to thank for this! While we have thoroughly enjoyed our time with our growing family, it will be great to be back with our friends and Legion family. I had a long talk with my Post Commander this morning and it brought home how much I have missed local and Department fellowship.

interesting to me. The Senate Appropriations Committee approved S. 3215 which is funding for Military Construction programs and the Department of Veterans Affairs. This was $146.6 billion which was $466 million below what the President requested, but was $228 million above last year. I firmly believe that The American Legion is an influencing force in the battle for financially supporting our veterans.

It has been a great Legion year for the Department of Indiana. Congratulations to Commander Mike and his officers for their tremen-

Continued on page 7

Detachment Closes Books With A New All-Time High

Wow, what a year!

Well, my year is not over just yet. We have our 49th annual Detachment Convention July 13-15, 2012, in Indianapolis to go, too. We also have our annual Sons of The American Legion Family Campout at Fortville June 29-July 1. All members of the American Legion Family are invited.

But we did close our books June 10, 2012, at IVH with a new “All Time High” in membership. Department Commander Mike Miller kept reminding us that the year was not up. You responded by turning in more than 1,100 cards during the last ten days of the membership year. Great Job “Raising The Bar.” Thank you all for

David Hanson SAL Detachment Commander

the hard work. Congratulations to Eighth District Commander Halleck LaMar for leading the way for the Detachment with 101.99 percent and winning the “Top Commander Jacket.” Also congratulations to the sixth Distract, Seventh District, and Third District for finishing at more than 100 percent of goal. This could not have been accomplished without everyone working hard and as a team.

My term as Detachment Commander of Indiana has been a wonderful experience, one that I know I will look back on as one of the best years of my life. I have had the pleasure of traveling to all four corners of the state and to a few places outside of Indiana.

I want to say ‘thank you’ for all the Hoosier Hospitality that has been shown me this year. When I have been visiting an American Legion Post, everyone has treated me like a member of the family. To all my friends, some who are new this year, others I have known for years, thank you for making this year a great success for the detachment.

Two good friends that I have made this year are De-

partment Commander Michael Miller and Department President Billie Bubala. It has been a privilege and honor to serve the veterans of this state with these two great members. They both have done an outstanding job this year.

Finally, I want to thank all the fine officers elected to serve with me, all who accepted appointments to important positions and the many others who chaired the committees and commissions. They could not have worked harder or supported our organization more completely. All the successes we have had this year is because of them. Thank you all for this year it has been a journey I will never forget.

I continue to be amazed at the changes I see in the military community from my fossilized days of long ago. Whichever base I am on I see a representation from all branches. The utility uniforms vary greatly and make a colorful display of camouflage each branch or unit has chosen. Females make up a large portion of those in service and there is a high representation of civilians in the form of contractors, GS, educational and support services. It is a radically different military from bygone eras.

In reflection, I believe it is only with creative and flexible changes that we will be an attractive organization to these modern veterans. What has worked in the past will not meet the needs of these returning veterans. We must aggressively open our doors and meetings to the female

Auxiliary News

veterans and seriously consider how we will incorporate the male spouses into our supportive units. Today’s veterans are much more savvy about benefits and disabilities. They are processed out rather than simply discharged as in the old days. However the needs for service officers will still remain. With the dramatic downsizing of the military there will be discharges through simple attrition. In our weakened economy the veterans coming home are going to be seeking employment opportunities where the lines are long. It will be quite an adjustment for highly skilled and trained personnel to take jobs of more menial tasks than what was experienced in active duty. There will also be quite a number who desired a military career which is no longer an option.

All military publications here have major space dedicated to unit disbands, relocation, and downsizing. I have read several articles on early and percentage retirement for senior enlisted and terminal promotions for officers. I believe the Legion

Continued on page 7

The Year May Be Over, But The Work Continues

The year is rapidly drawing to a close and there is still a lot to do. Convention is coming up and the new officers will be taking over. I know everyone will give the new officers the wonderful support they have shown to Commander Mike, SAL Commander David, and to me this year.

I also want to extend my personal thanks to all the posts, squadrons, and units all over the state who jumped in and sent donations as a result of the horrible tornadoes that hit Southern Indiana.

Your help was truly needed and appreciated. There is still a lot of recovery work to be done, but thanks to all of you, it is a little easier on those who suffered so much damage. It makes me truly proud to be a member of the Legion Family.

The Run for the Wall’s overnight stop in Corydon went great. Again, my thanks

Billie

to all the Posts who sent donations to provide the meal for the veterans and veteran supporters on their way to Washington DC to participate in the yearly Rolling Thunder Parade.

My husband and I have been part of, and seen the Run grow from 50 people to over 500 – just on the Central Route. So, I invite you now to the Corydon stop next year, on the Tuesday before Memorial Day.

Once again, it has truly been a pleasure to work with Commander Mike and Commander David and I look forward to many good years to come.

National Perspective

Darrell Hansel NEC

Mike Miller Department Commander

Chaplain’s Corner

Norris Keirn Department Chaplain