Badger Legionnaire June 2019

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June 27, 2019 Vol. 96, No. 5

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PAGE 2

THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE

“Badger Legionnaire” & “Wisconsin” The Badger Legionnaire & Wisconsin are the official publications of the Wisconsin American Legion Family and are published six times annually by The American Legion, Dept. of Wisconsin 2930 American Legion Drive P.O. Box 388, Portage, WI 53901.

Periodicals Postage Paid at Portage, WI and additional mailing offices.

USPS ID Number 010-135 ISSN: 2154-2627 Post Master: Send address changes to Badger Legionnaire and Wisconsin, P.O. Box 388, Portage, WI 53901

“Badger Legionnaire” The American Legion, Department of Wisconsin 2930 American Legion Drive P.O. Box 388 • Portage, WI 53901 Phone: (608) 745-1090 E-mail: badger@wilegion.org

Amber Nikolai, Department Adjutant Marie Steffen, Executive Editor 2018-2019 Communications Committee Rebecca Laumann, Chairman Joan Salle, Vice Chairman Greg Eirich, DEC Liaison Linda Pfeiffer Jennifer Rumbold Mike Feirer Bonnie Dorniak, Auxiliary Member

JUNE 27, 2019

DEPARTMENT COMMANDER LEGION PROUD

Proud of the impact the American Legion Family, the Four Pillars and Programs have on the lives of Veterans, their Families and their Communities!

This will be young men in attendance. I asked We need to join each others' or- the cabin so far and I am looking my last infor- them to raise their hand if they had ganizations and work together to forward to starting the Legacy mation letter to a Veteran in their family and was achieve this goal. This was well 100 Ride to collect donations to Frank Kostka totally amazed when just about ev- received by both groups. I also complete the project. I hope you Department Commander you as your Department Com- ery hand went up. Maybe many of shared my special project to build consider making a contribution mander and in that I want to Thank them were there because of Veter- the new American Legion Family of any size to this cabin that will You for giving me this privilege. I an values. The enthusiasm demon- Cabin, serving Gold Star Fami- provide a safe, quiet and comforthave enjoyed traveling the State, strated by the attendees and seeing lies. My passion for membership able location to aide in reflection meeting many Legionnaires, Aux- them develop leadership responsi- did not fall on deaf ears since and healing for our Gold Star iliary and SAL members, sharing bilities is always very impressive I signed up two new members families. I'm looking forward to in their events and hospitality. It and re-enforces that our country from each group into the Legion. seeing many of our Legionnaires We conducted the groundbreak- and Posts on our ride to Convenwas again highlighted when I had is in good hands as they mature.

I brought greetings from our De- ing ceremony on June 9th for the tion July 15 -17. I look forward to the opportunity to participate in the Appleton Flag Day Parade. partment to both DAV and VFW American Legion Family Cabin greeting all of our Legion FamIt was inspiring to join with Vet- conventions this month, sharing with about 75 people in atten- ily Members at our Department erans and citizens alike to dis- my message of how all the Vet- dance. I was so proud to get this Convention. Remember, all are play support for the flag and our eran Service Organizations have project started in my year with welcome at the PCC Bash with Country. Badger Boys State was the same goal, to serve the needs completion this Fall. Thank You to live music, Saturday evening at another success this year with 800 of Veterans and their families. everyone who has contributed to 7 PM in the Convention Hotel.

2018-19 Department Officers Department Commander Frank Kostka Department Vice Commanders Dave Wischer John Miller Ken Schoolcraft Clarence Davister Adjutant Amber L. Nikolai Department Chaplain Mathew Harn

Ground Breaking at Camp American Legion

Assistant Chaplain Todd Fanta Sergeant-At-Arms Jeremy Nordie Kendel Feilen Service Officer - James Fialkowski NECman - Robert Shappell Alternate NECman - Dale Oatman

Judge Advocate - Nicholas Lange Department Historian, Jeff Antczak District Commanders 1st – David Latimer 2nd – Greg Eirich 3rd – Keith Lovell 4th – Raymond Pasbrig 5th – Craig Ellis 6th – Jerry Lauby 7th – David Hale 8th – Ronald Fregien 9th – Jeffery Zwiers 10th – Paul Beseler 11th – Ted Harvey 12th – Donald Slattery

Change of Address & Other Information: Subscribers: To report any upcoming changes of address, please ask your Post Adjutant to fill out a Membership Data Form and forward it to Wisconsin American Legion Headquarters. The change of address form that will be completed by the Post Adjutant should not be confused with the change of address card filled out at the Post Office. Department financial statements are available to Legionnaires in good standing upon written request through their District Commanders.

“Wisconsin”

American Legion Auxiliary Department of Wisconsin 2930 American Legion Drive P.O. Box 140 • Portage, WI 53901

Bonnie Dorniak, Editor Char Kiesling, Department President Bonnie Dorniak, Exec. Secretary/Treasurer To change your address: Notify Unit Secretary Unit Secretary: Notify Department Headquarters on a Member Data Form The “Wisconsin” deadline for copy is 4 weeks before publication date.

Publication Schedule

All articles due to the Editor four weeks before publication date. Send all copy to badger@wilegion.org

TV Interview

Commander Testimonial

WDVA SECRETARY As we approach the department convention in July, I want to recognize the incredible work done Mary M. Kolar WDVA Secretary by the American Legion and the Auxiliary in Wisconsin.

As you very well know, the Legion is celebrating the 100th anniversary of its founding this year. Since its inception in 1919, the group has grown to about 2 million members nationwide. In Wisconsin, the thousands of members who proudly call themselves Legion members have been a fixture of our veterans’ community.

I commend Frank Kostka for his service to the Legion and Wisconsin veterans and their families this past year. I wish him the best as he relinquishes the reins of leadership. Following the transition, I look forward to working with the next commander, the Legion, the Auxiliary, and the SAL on challenges that may face us in our future.

From holding events such as the Legacy Ride to raise funds and awareness for veterans, to helping veterans find employment through career fairs and so much more, the work performed by the Legion has been incredible and never ending.

Many spend countless hours at

our three Wisconsin Veterans Homes helping out with events, bringing smiles to our members’ faces and so much more.

We at the WDVA are excited for the American Legion Riders’ 64th Annual Pilgrimage to our Wisconsin Veterans Home at King. The annual event, sponsored by the 8th District American Legion, is being held this year on Sunday, June 16 at King. Every year, many Legion members take time to volunteer and work the event which includes music, dinner, a parade and a formal program. It’s a great event and an excellent way to come and visit our King campus if you haven’t already.

A unique event will occur a few weeks later. On June 30, Robert Reigel, a 100-year old member at King and World War II veteran, will officially be presented the French Legion of Honor medal. The Legion of Honor is the highest French order of merit. We are looking forward to being joined by the Consul General of France to the Midwest, dignitaries and many others at the presentation. What an incredible honor for one of our nation’s heroes for the role he played in liberating France during WWII. We greatly look forward to being there as the medal is formally presented to Robert. We hope to see you there!

LEGISLATIVE REPORT In Wisconsin the Joint Finance Committee continues to work on the state budPaul Fisk get for the next Legislative Chairman two years. If it is not completed by July 1, the last spending level remains in place until action is completed.

They have not done anything with the WDVA budget to date.

There are several bills in the legislature that we are following. On May 29th Speaker Voss introduced a bill to set guidelines for naming state highways.

The public hearing was held on June 4th and passed out of the Transportation Committee upon completion of the hearing. It will be on the assembly calendar in June and the senate will concur. The speaker requested that we attend the hearing.

The second bill we are watching will lower the disability rating from 100% to 70% for the purpose of the state paying a pro-rated portion of the property tax for a disabled veteran or surviving spouse.

The Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act of 2019 (HR-299) passed by unanimous consent

in both the House and Senate.

This bill extends disability benefits to veterans who served on Navy ships off the coast of Vietnam for diseases presumed to be caused by exposure to Agent Orange and other defoliants used during the Vietnam War. On the national level we are following HR-1461 and the Senate companion bill S-504. The common name of the Senate Bill is the Legion Act. This proposal, promoted by the American Legion, would change the eligibility dates for membership. If adopted anyone who has served since WW 2 would become eli-

gible for legion membership.

The bill recognizes several incidents in which U.S. service members became causalities that fall outside of the legion eligibility dates. Senator Baldwin is one of the 30 Senators to cosponsor this bill. Rep. Kind is one of 51 House members co-sponsoring the advancement of this legislation. Please contact Senator Johnson and ask him to sign on to S-504. Additionally, request your Congressman to cosponsor HR-1461. Having the support of the complete Wisconsin delegation would send the nation a message on our 100th birthday.

JUNE 27, 2019

THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE

PAGE 3

Family Cabin Groundbreaking

Ground Breaking of The American Legion Family Cabin on Sunday, June 9, 2019 in Lake Tomahawk, WI.

“Surround yourself with good people and they will lift you up!”

OUR MISSION Helping To Heal - those who served, continue to serve, and their families, through Wisconsin’s Northwoods Experience OUR VISION Giving Wisconsin Veterans the pathway to quality of life

Dept Commander Frank Kostka, Dept Auxiliary President Char Kiesling, SAL Detachment Commander Chris Sherman, AL Riders President Tim Hyma

On Sunday, June 9, 2019, Department Commander Frank Kostka, along with the members of The Legion Family, hosted a groundbreaking ceremony of The American Legion Family Cabin at Camp American Legion in Lake Tomahawk, WI. This special dedication is for a cabin being constructed to honor the families who have lost a loved one while serving our Nation.

Department Commander Frank Kostka is thankful to The American Legion Family and others

OUR VALUES Honor and Stewardship To learn more about the mission of Camp American Legion or to get involved with answering the call, visit CampAmericanLegion.org or find us on Facebook.

Veteran and Gold Star Family Member Brian Jopeck

who have helped make this cabin possible, “The American Legion Riders have been contributing to the National Legacy Scholarship fund for some years now, providing scholarships to children of parents who lost their lives protecting our country. With changing needs and priorities, I and our membership wanted to keep this year’s State Fundraising Ride to help Veterans and families in our State. With the necessary demolition of an old cabin, the new American Legion Family Cabin became a natural replacement.

The opportunity for this cabin aligned with our mission and became my new goal. This cabin will provide healing for Wisconsin Gold Star Families and can be completely paid for this year.

Other donors and Legion Family Members also see the value of this project and have been very supportive.”

Camp Director Don Grundy led

Camp Chairman Michael Burt & PDC Jim Chapin

the count down and Commander Kostka dedicated the ground.

The cabin is scheduled for completion this Fall.

The state fundraising ride, Legacy 100, runs July 15-17. The ride kicks off in Ashland and ends in Middleton, Wisconsin.

All donations go to The Ameri-

can Legion Family Cabin and are tax deductible through The Wisconsin American Legion Foundation. To participate or make a donation to this event, visit https:// wilegion.org/page/content/about/ legacy-100-ride or call The American Legion, Department of Wisconsin at 608-745-1090.

SAL DETACHMENT COMMANDER

Chris Sherman SAL Det. Commander

Greetings L e g i o n F a m i l y !

This will be my last article before I step down as Detachment

Commander. I truly feel blessed to have worked with Department Commander Frank Kostka, Auxiliary President Char Kiesling, and Legion Rider President Al Richards.

Without your support, I would not have achieved the goals

that I set for the last 2 years.

To the squadrons of the great Detachment of Wisconsin, we have held first place in the national central region for both membership and renewals for most of the year. Of the 12 districts in

the detachment, most are at 100% or better at the time of writing this letter. As it looks right now, the Triple Nickel Award looks to be coming to the Detachment of Wisconsin.

This is due to all the hard work each squadron has done

Legionnaire Receives Congressional Commendation

Governor Tony Evers presented Steve Conto with the Veteran Volunteer of the Year Service Award on June 6 at the Governor’s Service Awards Ceremony in Madison, Wisconsin. Conto is a member of the Oney Johnston-Edward Blessman Post 38 in Appleton and is on the Department Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Committee.

Steve Conto served our nation in the Navy for over two decades and has continued his service here in Wisconsin for the past seventeen years by documenting and caring for the gravesites of Wisconsin soldiers that were killed

during the Vietnam War. He enlisted in the Navy in 1976, served during the Gulf War, and retired in 1998. He was inspired in 2002 after seeing the film We Were Soldiers to provide this act of service to veterans that were killed during the Vietnam War. Steve calls the results of these efforts “The Final Bridge” as he “wanted to create a bridge between their names on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial wall and their final resting place so families, comrades and friends can easily find them.”

When he started this project, Steve was surprised to find that the state and individual counties did not have complete burial re-

cords for veterans. In total, he identified 1,248 Vietnam veterans through several avenues of research. To find all of the gravesites, he spoke with cemeteries and hundreds of family members of those killed. After locating the gravesites, he traveled with a clipboard, weed trimmer and bucket of cleaning supplies to each gravesite to record its exact location and to provide necessary cleaning and upkeep.

Some of the resting places he visited were difficult to find because grave markers had become hidden by grass, leaves, and other debris. Steve says that, “I clean the marker and I trim around the marker. I sweep

on membership this past year.

In ending, I would like to thank my Detachment Officers and District Commanders for making the past 2 years as your Detachment Commander, the best memories I can have. I am truly blessed and humbled.

it, wash it, clean it, dry it and put a flag by it if allowed. Then I take a picture. I’ll render honors (salute) and I’ll say something to the individual, a welcome home or a quick greeting.” He was frequently joined by his wife, Cindy, or his friend Mike Weaver, who was a medic in Vietnam. Steve created Governor Tony Evers presented Steve Conto a registry of all 1,140 with the Veteran Volunteer of the Year Service Wisconsin Vietnam Award on June 6 at the Governor’s Service KIAs with names, home- Awards Ceremony in Madison, Wisconsin. towns and gravesites by map co- Bridge” being an officially recordinates that now resides with ognized resource book used by the Wisconsin Veterans Museum county veterans service offices in Madison, with the “The Final Continued on Page 5

David Wischer

2019 Department Election Candidates

Paul Beseler

Greg Eirich

Candidate for Department Vice Commander

Candidate for Department Vice Commander

Tenth District Commander Paul Beseler is endorsed

by Runnestrand-Pederson Post 354, The Trempealeau County Council and 10th District for the office of Department Vice Commander.

Beseler served eight years with The United States Marine Corps and is eligible for membership through his service during Grenada & Lebanon.

He served three terms as Trempealeau County Council Commander and has served on several Tenth District Committees. Beseler’s accomplishments include: 2014 American Legion Natl College Graduate; WI & Natl Legion College Alumni Assoc. member; Driving force establishing the 10th District Legion Riders; Worked to establish the 10th District SAL; Camp American Legion Comm. Liaison to the DEC; and delegate to 3 National Conventions.

“With a strong belief in The Four Pillars of The American Legion, as well as an obligation of giving back, The American Legion has been a great fit for me.

Seeing that we do make a difference in the lives of veterans and that we have done so for 100 years, I’m dedicated to supporting the next Department Commander as we all begin creating a new legacy for future generations of veterans while maintaining the benefits and programs that past generations of Legionnaires have gifted our current veterans with. I proudly and humbly seek your support and your vote in electing me to Department Vice Commander.”

Jerry Lauby Candidate for Department Vice Commander Sixth District Commander Jerry Lauby, respectfully requests your support for the office of Department Vice Commander. Lauby, a veteran of the US Army, 1962 - 1965, served at Fort Leonard Wood, MO, JUSMAG Thailand, and Fort McCoy, WI. An American Legion PUFL 48 year continuous member and member of Abler Engel Post 454 in Mt. Calvary, Lauby served his Post as Post Commander, Vice Commander, Veterans Memorial Committee Chair, Americanism Committee, and Firing Squad member.

Lauby has also served as: National -Americanism Council; Department -Americanism Committee Chair, CIP Oversight Committee, BBS Staff, Oratorical Staff; District -Commander, Adjutant/Finance Officer, Oratorical Chairman; FDL County -Commander, and Youth Govt Day Committee. He was named Post and 6th District Outstanding Legionnaire of the Year in 2013 and has completed the ALEI Course.

Jerry was appointed to serve on the Selective Service Commission State of Wisconsin, served on the State of Wisconsin Elks Americanism Committee, Elks Lodge 57 Americanism Essay contest Chairman, Recipient of Elks Lodge 57 Outstanding Service Commendation and was the recipient of Elks Lodge 57 "Elk of the Year" in 2014.

Candidate for Department Commander

Eirich joined The American Legion in 1987, earning his membership eligibility through his service in the United States Air Force 1971-1975 during the Vietnam Era and his service in the WI Army National Guard, 1981-2002. Eirich served in Istanbul, Turkey, serving a 1 year tour of duty. In the Air Force, he served at Shaw and Eglin Air Force Bases. In the WI Army Natl Guard, Eirich served at the Sheboygan, Two Rivers and Plymouth National Guard Armories. He retired as an E-7/Sergeant First Class.

Eirich’s American Legion accomplishments include: Dept -Historian, Communications Comm.

DEC Liaison, Finance Comm. DEC Liaison; District -Commander, Vice Commander, Americanism Chairperson; County -Commander, Vice Commander; Post 555 Commander; Post 83 Commander; Natl & WI American Legion College graduate. He is a 40&8 Member and 2nd District Legion Rider.

“I believe in the Wisconsin American Legion College and what it teaches our Legionnaires. An educated Legionnaire is an informed Legionnaire. We have our Legacy to look back on and be very proud of their accomplishments. Now we look to the Vision of the future in which to move forward and grow and educate our American Legion Family.”

Ray Pasbrig

Department Vice Commander David Wischer respectfully requests your support for the High Office of Department Commander. Wischer is a Vietnam Era Army Veteran, serving from 1974-1977. A 38 year Honorary Life Member of the H.A. Todd Jr.-Wisconsin Motor Post #537 in Milwaukee, Wischer has achieved 100% Commander, 100% Membership Chairman and he is currently serving as the Post Parliamentarian.

Wischer’s accomplishments include: National VA&R Committee Member; Department–Vice Commander, Fundraising Committee Liaison, Sergeant at Arms, Membership Committee (1 year as Vice Chairman), Fundraising Committee (1 year as Chairman); American Legion ALEI Course graduate; WI American Legion College Basic & Intermediate Course completion; “Badger Big 10” Membership Recruiting award recipient; 2010 National Convention Parade Marshal; 4th District – Sergeant at Arms, Chair of many fundraising, membership, and Troop and Family Support Initiatives; Recognized

by National for his efforts in revitalizing the 5th District’s Post 479.

Wischer volunteers at Badger Boy’s State and is the Head Sergeant at Arms for the Department Regional and State Oratorical finals. He is a member of the Past Department Sergeant at Arms Club, Past Commanders Club, Department Golf Committee and Voiture #1519 of the 40/8.

Wischer is supported by his family, Post, the Fourth District and the Milwaukee County Council.

Kendel Feilen Candidate for Department Sergeant-at-Arms

Candidate for Department Vice Commander Ray "Godfather" Pasbrig announces his candidacy for Department Vice Commander. He earned his membership to the American Legion in 1968 when he became a United States Marine, “My M.O.S. is 0311 Grunt - OO RAH, I am a Vietnam Veteran, serving in "Nam" from 1969-1970.”

In 2000, he joined The American Legion so that he could join The American Legion Riders. “My passion to ride with the riders was so powerful, and my desire to be a part of this great organization has kept growing and doesn't stop.”

Pasbrig’s leadership roles with The American Legion include: Past State Vice President Legion Riders; Past 4/5 District President Legion Riders; Past District 4/5 Vice President Legion Riders; Past Milwaukee County Vice Commander; Past Milwaukee County Commander; Past Tanner-Paull Post 120 Commander; current Post 120 Tanner-Paull Judge Advocate; Past Commander of Past Commanders Club; Past Chef De Train of Voiture 1519 Milwaukee; current Chef De Gare of Voiture 1519 Milwaukee; Past Vice Commander 4th District; and current 4th District Commander.

“I would like to assist the next Department Commander of Wisconsin and help keep our programs moving forward. I am asking for your support, to be a Department Vice Commander of the Great Department of Wisconsin.”

Kendel Feilen is a 28-year PUFL member and current Commander of Milwaukee Police Post 415. He requests your support in his candidacy for Department Sergeant-at-Arms. Feilen is completing a one year term and appreciates the opportunity to run for a 2 year term.

Feilen’s membership in The American Legion was earned as a member of the Coast Guard Reserve and a deployment to Saudi Arabia in support of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, 19901991, with Port Security Unit 303. He was on duty as the Force Protection Crisis Action Team Chief at USTRANSCOM on 9-11-2001 and was activated for two years thereafter. Feilen retired in 2004 at the rank of Captain (O-6).

His service to the Department includes: 2009 Department Convention Committee-Milwaukee; 2010 National Convention Provost and Parade co-chairMilwaukee; 2010-2012 Legislative Committee and Vice Chairman; 2012-2013 Department Historian; and 2013-2018 Communications Committee and Chairman.

He has also served as a Judge at the Regional Oratorical contests and as Security Director at Badger Boys State.

Nationally, Feilen served as Assistant Sgt-at-Arms at the National Conventions in 2011 in Minneapolis, 2013 in Houston, and 2015 in Baltimore.

“I look forward to serving a full two-year term as the Department of Wisconsin Sergeant-at-Arms and I thank you in advance for your vote.”

John A. P. Gessner Candidate for Department Assistant Chaplain John Gessner is a 22-year member of The American Legion, first in Post 864, Rockford, IL and most recently in Post 100, Sparta, WI. American Legion positions have included Post Adjutant, Post Chaplain, Veterans and Memorial

Day Parade Marshal, National Security Committee Chairman and Veterans Affairs Committee Chairman.

Gessner served 32 years in the Army, retiring from active duty in 2010. Military assignments included wartime service in Afghanistan

and Iraq and assignments in Washington DC, US Southwest border as liaison to the Dept of Homeland Security, Asst Professor of Military Science at Marquette University, Germany, Egypt, Central America and numerous countries in Southwest Asia.

Gessner volunteers as a Military

Outreach Coordinator, an Army Reserve Ambassador and with the Boy Scouts of America. He is past president and a board member of the 416th ENCOM Assoc. and is a Vietnam2Now member.

Gessner holds a Bachelors and Masters degree in Engineering from Marquette University, is pursuing

a Master of Divinity Degree at Trinity International University, and is an ordained minister.

In volunteer positions, he feels that if he can assist one military member or family member, it is a good day.

JUNE 27, 2019

THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE

PAGE 5

KIA Memorial Strengthens Community Bond

By Roger L. Emmerich The Landua Jensen American Legion Post #147 located in Medford, WI, has been working on a unique 100 year celebration project for their post since the fall of 2016. That is when they asked local schools and Taylor county residents to submit a sketch and ideas for a KIA Memorial to be constructed in the local city Park. Emily Mahner submitted a sketch of a Funeral Honors Team with a kneeling soldier presenting a folded flag to an empty chair and a soldier’s cross. There will be three riflemen and a bugler in the background. The title of the memorial is “Honor the Fallen”. Family members of a fallen soldier will be able to sit in the chair for pictures. The full size kneeling soldier, chair and soldier’s cross will all be made of bronze.

Post #147 constructed a large flag display and Legacy Stone Wall for Veterans and their families to place granite stones to recognize their Veteran’s service in our nation’s armed forces. The flag field has the five branches of service, State of Wisconsin, POW/MIA and American flags

placed in the pattern of a specialist patch, so they can be viewed from three directions, day or night and all flags are visible.

KIA project coordinator for the American Flag Field and Legacy Wall development, has been past Commander and current Finance officer, Roger Emmerich. Working with Roger on the new KIA Memorial are Paul Lukewich, Past VFW post #5729 commander, and Corey Nazer, Medford Area High School (MASH) history club director.

MASH history club students helped raise the funds, attending in excess of 120 meetings with local organizations, businesses and industries in the Medford area. This has been a great experience for them and also for our post. Our post presented the Club with $5,600.00 in appreciation for their help with the memorial.

The students set out on June 6th (75th Anniversary of the D-Day invasion) for London, England.

They followed almost the entire advance of the Allied Forces on the Western Front during World War II. From there they crossed the English Channel by ferry and landed in Normandy as so many

of our American Veterans did three quarters of a century ago.

After touring the beaches, the Normandy area and an American cemetery, the History Club went to Paris, the Palace of Versailles, the city of Bastogne and the site of the heroic Battle of the Bulge.

Continuing by train to Germany, and following the last days of the war in Europe, the students visited Cologne, Berlin, Nuremberg and Munich. They saw remnants of the Berlin Wall, visited the Dachau Concentration Camp, saw Hitler’s mountaintop retreat-the “Eagles Nest” and drove through the Bavarian Alps on their way to Salzburg, Austria.

It is a well deserved trip for these young students, but much more than a once in a lifetime excursion around the world.

These students found in the lead up to their departure that the work they did fundraising for the Killed Action Memorial was more meaningful than they could have anticipated. It is somewhat rare to see a veterans organization work so closely with a student organization. The students embraced the opportunity and got a chance to do real

King Breaks Ground for New Facility

On May 14, Governor Tony Evers and WDVA Secretary Mary Kolar joined Commander Kostka and many others for the official groundbreaking of John R. Moses Hall. This 192 bed skilled nursing facility is set to open in 2 years and will offer private rooms. The Wisconsin Veterans Home at King is a long term and rehabilitative care facility serving veterans and their eligible dependents.

County Youth Government Day

Columbia County students take the Oath of Office with Judge Hepler.

Posts throughout Wisconsin worked with county and city government officials to host The American Legion County Youth Government Day program. This program is designed to teach high school students about the importance of their local government. The ultimate goal is for participating students to educate others to become better citizens and cre-

ate an atmosphere for a cleaner and more effective government.

Participating counties included: Brown, Columbia, Dodge, Fond du Lac, Grant, Green Lake, Iowa, Jefferson, Kewaunee, Lafayette, Pierce, Richland, Sheboygan, Waupaca, and Winnebago. 885 students participated, representing 76 schools.

Columbia County Commander and Youth Government Chair-

man Norm Bednarek attended the program when he was in high school! Legionnaires Keith Miller (Post 62-Columbus) and Tom Borgkvist (Post 215 Commander-Pardeeville) serve on the Columbia County Board of Supervisors and took part on the panel and led the students on a tour. Miller shared that he represented Fall River High School at the program 47 years ago.

community service that will have a lasting impact. At the beginning of the experience the students were not confident in their ability to approach a business owner, engage in a serious Past Post Commander Roger L. Emmerich presents conversation about $5600 check to Medford Area Senior High School History Club. Students used the funds to travel to Eua memorial idea rope to visit historical military sites. and maturely ask the business if they would part- ing is accomplished overnight. ner financially with the History They have recognized that comClub and The American Legion. promise is essential, setbacks Almost universally the students are opportunity for growth, were nervous, they were unsure and that sustained hard work about speaking to one or many will eventually yield results.

Some say young people don’t adults and most of all, they were intimidated by questions that want to work for anything anymight be asked of them. Now, more, that perhaps the next gentwo years later, as ground has eration represents a weakening been broken on this Killed in Ac- of the American fabric. These tion Memorial and the students students are living proof that are getting much praise from the volunteerism, patriotism, work community, we are taking stock ethic and community-mindin the growth of these young edness are not on the decline adults. The students have ex- amongst our youth. Perhaps pressed over and over how much it is community organizations more confident they are interact- like The American Legion, or ing with adults. They understand a high school history club that that large projects take effort are needed to show our students from many groups and that noth- that they can have an impact.

Legionnaire Congressional Commendation Continued from Page 3

and others who, like Steve Conto, want Wisconsin’s fallen Vietnam veterans to be remembered.

Steve has done additional research through the families of fallen soldiers into the circumstances of their deaths and about the units and veterans with whom they served.

He captures their memories through poems and prose de-

scribing their service, which he shares with families and the community. Steve is hoping to eventually get to each of the documented graves of Wisconsin KIAs outside of the state, which includes thirty other states, Arlington National Cemetery, Puerto Rico, and Mexico.

-Excerpts reprinted from Governor’s Service Awards brochure

48TH ANNUAL ALL-STAR GAME

AUGUST 11, 2019 MILLER PARK

Pre-Game Ceremonies @ 12:45 PM MILWAUKEE BREWERS vs TEXAS RANGERS @ 1:10 PM ALL-STAR GAME AT MILLER PARK @ 6:00 PM Make plans to support our of American Legion Baseball American Legion Baseball as part of the Marshfield team.

Players as they experience In early June he was drafted by playing on a Major League the Toronto Blue Jays in the field. We are the only state 13th round. Schwecke played who offers this opportunity. If on the 2016 WI American Leyou are interested in purchas- gion All-Star team. ing a ticket for the Brewer vs Texas Ranger game, we have a limited supply available through the Department.

Email marie@wilegion.org or call 608-745-1090 after July 22 to check on availability.

Ticket price is $35. You may also order your tickets directly Trevor Schwecke, former Legion from the Milwaukee Brewers.

All-Star Team Member, Drafted by Congratulations to Trevor Toronto Blue Jays Schwecke who played 4 years

PAGE PAGE 66

THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE

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1 Germantown Fredrick Daum II Gordon Geil II 10 Wausau Leo Benaszeski V Leroy Grosskreutz K Ellis Peterson II 11 Green Bay Donald Bettine K 19 Hartford Charles Becker V William Horst II 28 Valders Ronald Fallier V 31 Menomonee Falls Martin Keily II 36 West Bend Lawrence Hoffmn V Frederick Rogers II 37 Elk Mound Wayne Johnson V 40 Bangor Roy Hesselberg II 44 Wabeno Gerald Doucha V John Ronsman K 47 Portage Robert Hoffer V

1/8/18 5/25/19 5/14/19 5/21/19 4/12/19 4/29/19 5/19/19 11/9/18 5/30/19 5/23/19 5/21/19 4/18/19 5/25/19 5/7/19 1/25/19 5/28/19 6/12/19

48 Beloit Robert Weisenbeck K 53 Eau Claire Paul Milledge V Kenneth Rudolphson II 54 Marshfield Arthur Regner K 60 Kimberly Vernon Friebel II Ralph Pleier II Paul Smits II 64 Ladysmith Richard Oldeen V 72 Sturgeon Bay Roger Falk V Earl Hellamnn II 80 New Richmond Keith Hexum K 82 Port Washington James Rollmann V 88 Manitowoc Carl Zutz II 93 Tomahawk Graham Foster K 97 Dodgeville Grace McConnell II 98 Cumberland Craig Greener V Gene Hines II 100 Sparta Richard Massey V John Perry K Darren Schauf PG Ronald Zitzman II 121 River Falls A G Koderick II Robert McLawhorn K Robert Smith K 126 Brillion Winford Kasper II James Tarnawa PG 137 Turtle Lake Otto Becker K

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Post 555 Builds Home For Deployed Serviceman

Members of Triple Nickel, Post 555 of Sheboygan, WI, found out a service member was unable to meet the work hours required for the home his family was purchasing through Habitat for Humanity, Lakeshore. He was un-

able to meet this requirement because he was deployed. Members of Triple Nickel volunteered to put in the needed hours for the service member. The family has since moved in and are enjoying their new home.

Members of Triple Nickel, Post 555 of Sheboygan gather in front of the Home they helped build for a deployed serviceman. Members pictured from left to right; Chaplain Jonathan Belval, 1st Vice Commander Jennifer Sampson, Executive Committeeman Kevin Sampson, Judge Advocate Mike Beringer, Commander Craig Stewart, Jason Kress, and Adjutant Todd Richter.

146 Beaver Dam Roy Erickson K Franklin Gerth II 150 Wausaukee Kurt Konell V 151 Madison Richard Patronsky II 157 Horicon Lynn Columbia V 158 Maiden Rock Carl Gronquist V 163 Wautoma Byron Goodwin K 166 Fort Atkinson Don Koepke V Oscar Yaeggi II 175 Loyal Edward Oblak K 185 Grantsburg Donald Brenizer K 187 Wisconsin Dells Edward Fox V Frank Kaminski V Roy Luke K Robert Wallace K 189 Watertown Jack Erdmann K Arthur Evert V 204 Ellsworth Bernard Kittleson K 205 Janesville Gordon LaChance II Jerald Nordlee K 209 Orfordville Seal Meligan II 217 Bonduel Donald Mueller II 226 Manawa Paul Gehrke K 229 Mount Hope Lonnie Freymiller V Royce Luckey V 238 Greenwood Roger Hendricks V

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Mike Kwiatkowski 243 Plymouth George Degen 245 Cross Plains Robert Luhman Mark Pertzborn 246 Genoa Merlin Schroeder 250 Adams James LaFrance Ralph Weberpal 284 Holmen Gary Countryman Richard Fonstad Harvey Jostad 288 Cedarburg Thomas Carron 293 Silver Lake Amel Bolyard 301 Woodville Harry Smith 308 Gays Mills Robert Hentgen 310 Racine Harry Ramseier 324 Osseo Paul Seffens Charles Shoemaker 330 Wilson Stephen Kapping Vern Lundquist 336 Onalaska Dale Wilkins Lloyd Wuensch 340 Berlin Harold Wiecki 347 Lomira Donald Gunderson 348 DeForest Edward Lavallee 350 Reedsburg Merle Groener James Schernecker

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354 Ettrick Francis Sesvold K 364 Winneconne James Krings V 377 Elcho Sperry Winn II 382 Menomonee Falls Edward Gross K 385 Verona Charles Virnig V 403 Webb Lake Gregory Belanger V 406 Milwaukee Lawrence Beckman II 410 Fredonia Earl Kleckner K Kenneth Steffen II 413 Crivitz Wilbar Cox II Robert Darrow V 426 Milwaukee Fred Kohlhapp II 427 Milwaukee David Loeffler V Robert Muellenbach V 437 Mazomanie Louis Carpenter V 442 Wisconsin Rapids Patrick Parmeter V 449 Brookfield Robert Brurok V Irving Dietscher II Feliks Gusmanis K 501 Madison James Edens V 508 Wilton William Bever V 526 Hazel Green John Champion V 537 Milwaukee Ervin Dzierzewski II 2930 Portage Tom Poullette K

5/26/19 5/21/19 4/3/19 5/14/19 5/24/19 6/3/19 5/30/19 1/30/19 12/7/18 5/21/19 5/26/19 6/4/19 5/2/19 5/27/19 5/19/19 5/15/19 6/2/19 3/9/19 5/8/19 5/21/19 5/26/19 6/5/19 5/7/19 5/7/19

92nd State Bowling Tournament Results

The 92nd State Bowling Tournament hosted by The American Legion Post 52 La Crosse has come to a close, the standings are complete, and the checks are in the mail. All entrants who provided an email address on their entry form were sent a complete standing. If you would like a copy, please email me.

The tournament started off with a tradition. The Commander team bowling against the State Adjutant team. To continue with past success, the State Adjutant Team won again (with maybe a little handicap adjustment). It was a fun time seeing the leadership of the WI American Legion take their frustration out on the pins.

32 teams entered. The 7th District Officers put together the right bowlers to lead the team event with a 4-person score of 2678 followed by two Post 52 teams with 2640 and 2620.

Post 180 Milwaukee continues to dominate the Doubles portion of the tournament with David Hansen and Todd Hanses setting the unreachable (scratch) score on the 1st weekend of the tournament with a 1446 high series. Almond Post 339 Eric Petrusky and Jason Hutkowski were only 22 pins away from 1st place with a 1422 Series for second and Milwaukee Post 180 Randy Hansen and Debbie Hansen with 1388 rounded off the top 3.

Ron Kraus from Almond Post 339 lead the Singles event of 122 bowlers with a 795 series with Post 73 Neillsville Terry Wolf in second with a 785-scratch series and Gavin Strey from Post 91 Oconomowoc had a series of 764.

Something hard to do is to tie in All Events, but that is what these two accomplished, Dean Koeller from Post 117 Shawano and Post 91 Oconomowoc Gavin Strey bowled consistent enough to post

a 2232 score followed up with Post 339 Almond Ron Kraus only 2 pins away with a 2230 series.

Plans are in motion for the 93rd State Bowling Tournament hosted by the experienced Post 189 in Watertown. The proposed dates start on March 28, 2020 and run each weekend in April except for the Easter weekend.

With the experience of the staff at Watertown Bowl and Post 189 we are confident they will put on a well-run tournament providing a lot of fun for all the bowlers.

We are taking bids for any post interested in hosting the 94th State Bowling Tournament or later. Our goal is to award this tournament out three years for everyone to plan. The major requirement is that at least a 12lane center is available. Please contact me for more information if your post is interested in hosting.

Mike Wagoner, State Bowling Association Director/Secretary 608-792-8135 sgmwags@ gmail.com

JUNE 27, 2019

THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE

PAGE 7

DEPARTMENT MEMBERSHIP CHAIRMAN: WHAT IS A BUDDY CHECK? What is a Buddy Check?

It is taking the time to contact any member or former member who may have Julie Muhle lost touch with Membership Chair the post and may need help. It is taking the time to say “Hi, how can we help you?” without asking for membership dues. The most important part of the call is to see if the veteran and family are OK, if the legion can help and to invite them to celebrate any planned events or activities. We need to do what our founders did and make personal contact with veterans in our communities.

Buddy Checks were so successful in 2019 that National passed Resolution 18 at the 2019 National Spring Conferences to have Buddy Checks twice per year – the weeks in which The American Legion birthday and Veterans Day fall.

The resolution also states that this will now be a reportable item on the annual Consolidated Post Report.

The Department of Wisconsin Membership Committee wishes to make this process easier for its posts. The following outline is a Best Practice solution for Buddy Checks throughout the year.

Julie Muhle Dept. Membership Chairman 920-382-4028

BEST PRACTICES FOR A BUDDY CHECK MATERIAL NEEDED • Buddy Check Toolkit (available at www.legion.org/membership) • Current (or older) membership list (can download from mylegion.org), or • Green bar sheet sent with membership cards • Optional: www.whitepages.com paid access ($20 per month and can cancel at any time)

BEST PRACTICE STEPS • Have your membership chairman, adjutant or commander bring a list of members in your Post (current & back a couple of years) to the July meeting o All phone numbers should be on the list. If not, www.whitepages.com or www.411.com are good resources to look up phone numbers not present. o For a small fee, the post can pay for access to get phone numbers not readily available on www.whitepages.com.

• Divide the list by 12 • Create your Buddy Check team. o Determine your plan for Buddy Checks: -Have the team come in ½ hour early for the meeting and make as many calls before the meeting starts, or -Divide the list even further and give each member on the team a list of members to call prior to the next meeting. o Example – the largest post in the department has 966 members. Divided by 12 and it takes the number to call per month down to 81. Now, if you have 5 members on your team, each would get 16 members to call before the next meeting.

This means that each member would make 4 calls per week. Pretty manageable! o Use the scripts that are available in the Buddy Check toolkit to help make the call even easier. Modify as needed to make them more relevant to your post. o NOTE: If you are unable to contact a member or cannot find a phone number, get a buddy and go to the member’s home!

• Other ideas: send out birthday cards

WISCONSIN AMERICAN LEGION LAW ENFORCEMENT CAREER ACADEMY (WALLECA) The Wisconsin American Legion Law Enforcement Career Academy ( WA L L E C A ) is our newest Jim Johnson Americanism WALLECA Chairperson program. The program introduces high school juniors and seniors to law enforcement as a career. The program is open to males and females that have shown an interest in the law enforcement profession and are of good academic standing. The program is demanding, coupling academics with physically active programing. Marching to cadence is an added bonus to the program.

WALLECA recently completed its third session at the Wisconsin State Patrol Academy in Sparta.

The 2019 session has expanded to include high school juniors and seniors desiring a law enforcement career. With the quest of providing greater opportunity for participation, we have increased the program size from 40 up to 52 students. When expanding the program, we are limited by the physical classroom size and available housing accommodations.

These past two years we have had the pleasure of working with some truly awesome kids from

WI AMERICAN LEGION RIDERS

As the incoming President, I am looking forward to working throughout the state promoting our mission: Tim Hyma •Participate President,WI in parades and American Legion Riders other ceremonies that are in keeping with the aims and purposes of The American Legion.

•Promote motorcycle safety.

•Provide a social atmosphere for American Legion members who share the same interests.

•Use our association to promote and support the programs of The American Legion, the community and other motorcycle organizations.

In that regard, the Wisconsin Legion Riders have participated in 27 events since our May 4th meeting and raised over $19,000 for various charities. That was before our heavy riding schedule started.

Each of our 12 Districts have been deeply involved in activities that have benefited veterans,

veteran’s families and their communities. Currently, we have 807 members statewide. Some interesting facts: 601 Riders are Legion members; 90 Riders are SAL and 116 Riders are Auxiliary. This underscores the fact that the Riders are made up of Legion Family members.

One of our biggest focuses is on helping Commander Frank raise money for Camp American Legion, and the ride to Convention.

We are also committed to the American Legion Scholarship Fund as well as other local organizations and Legion programs.

It is an honor to serve as President of the American Legion Riders of Wisconsin. I look forward to working with the Legion Family in being, as the Commander says- “Legion Proud”. Please contact me if I can assist.

Tim Hyma, President WI American Legion Riders timhyma@yahoo.com

throughout Wisconsin and some just as awesome volunteers providing instruction and leadership.

Even though our days begin at 0500 and finish at 2200, the attitude and teamwork of the participants energizes us and helps make this a rewarding experience.

Piper James, a 2018 WALLECA graduate shared, “Two months after WALLECA I enlisted in the National Guard as Military Police and plan to have a civilian career in the law enforcement field. July 22nd I will be going to Fort Leonard Wood for a 5 month OSUT (One Station Unit Training).

Then I will be going to college.

I loved WALLECA!!!! It helped me realize a whole other career field. Also, it sparked my interest to enlist. My favorite part was the DAAT training! It was cool to

Weapons Training

punch things!”

We could not provide this opportunity without our sponsors from the Wisconsin American Legion Foundation, Wisconsin Professional Police Association, Wisconsin State Patrol, Wisconsin Sheriffs and Deputy Sheriffs Association, Badger State Sheriffs Association, Wisconsin Chiefs of Police Association, Cedarburg Lions Club, Wisconsin Correctional Association, Milwaukee

Defense Training

Police Officers Conservation and Sportsman’s Club, Logistics Health Incorporated, and Thelen Consulting LLC. If you wish additional information, please check us out on the Department Website or you can contact Sheri Hicks, Programs Coordinator, at Sheri@wilegion. org or call (608)745-1090.

Jim Johnson Chairperson WALLECA Committee

LEGION BASEBALL IN FULL SWING

The season for American Legion Baseball is in full swing. This year 217 teams are competing, representing the Roger Mathison American Legion WI American Legion Baseball Posts throughout Commisioner the state. This means over 3500 high school aged athletes are on the fields of play representing you, and learning what The American Legion stands for and promoting American Legion values.

Come on out to the ballparks and root on the next leaders of our communities, and show the pride we have in this vital youth program.

With 217 teams, Wisconsin ranks 4th nationally for the number of teams participating. But we are a leader nationally in that we have 3 classes of Sr. competition depending on school size, and we have 2 classes of Jr. competition ranked by age.

So we are giving more players to opportunity to compete fairly

with their peers.

While 217 teams is a number we can be proud of, the ultimate goal is to have an American Legion Baseball team in every community that has a high school baseball program. We ask American Legion Posts to reach out to their high school coaches and try to organize a team in their area. The visibility The American Legion can achieve by sponsoring a team helps create public awareness of the Post in the community.

We are very proud to have 217 registered in Wisconsin.

However, there are ‘rogue’ teams who are being promoted as American Legion Baseball teams, but have not registered and complied with the requirements to be called an American Legion Baseball team. If all these teams would register we could challenge Minnesota to having the most teams nationally.

The American Legion and American Legion Baseball are titles protected by the National

Organization.

Teams cannot identify themselves as American Legion Baseball teams unless they are registered as such.

The cost of $671 for a Sr team, and $363 for a Jr team covers state and national fees as well as the mandatory insurance is what is required to register with The American Legion. Another requirement is that all coaches and managers must pass an annual background check. Is your team covered by insurance?

Have all your coaches passed a background check? Is your Post willing to take the chance of no insurance or an annual background check? Liability is a big issue in today’s world.

Roger Mathison Wisconsin American Legion Baseball Commissioner