Badger
“For God & Country”
&“Wisconsin”
aire Official Publications of The Wisconsin American Legion Family
January 22, 2015 Vol. 92, No. 1
www.wilegion.org
The mission of The American Legion, Department Of Wisconsin is to provide service to veterans, their families and their communities.
Badger Boys State Gearing Up for 2015 Commander Backs the Pack!
Good news! More young men will have the opportunity to attend Badger Boys State in 2015. An increase in the available rooms at Ripon College will allow sponsors to select more youth to attend this program. The sponsorship fee of $250 per student covers all costs for the student to attend except transportation to and from BBS. Reservations are on a first come first served basis. As long as there are slots available, BBS will accept reservations. Call Sandy Ryce at Department headquarters to check availability at (608) 745-1090. Sponsors and post officers can visit Boys State during the week to see the program in operation. Details for visits should be cleared with the director as to the time and date of a visit. A day long visit would be rewarding for any sponsor. ELIGIBILITY Young men who have completed their junior year in high school are eligible. Home schooled students are eligible, but must compete for
slots with the students in their area school district. Participants should be from the upper third of their class, but this may be waived due to student population in smaller schools. Each school should have a selection process to choose a deserving student. The local American Legion Posts who sponsor students may be involved in the selection process depending on local tradition. Other sponsors paying for students will follow the general guidelines set forth in Badger Boys State policies. REGISTRATION Only after sponsorship fees are paid will registration cards be mailed to sponsors. The sponsors are then responsible to assist the student and the school in registering. Sponsors and schools are encouraged to name alternates for every student sponsored. In many of the past years a number of alternates have been chosen to attend BBS when the primary candidates can’t attend. In the event a school cannot fill the number of sponsorships it has, Badger Boys State requests sponsors contact Sandy
2015 Membership Goal al 90.34% District 12 1st PLACE
87.62% District 6 2nd PLACE
86.71% District 9 4th PLACE
86.32% District 2 5th PLACE
85.45% District 8 7th PLACE
83.98% District 1 8th PLACE
83.75% District 11 10th PLACE
82.66% District 4 11th PLACE
59,600 59
86.99% District 10 3rd PLACE
86.24% District 3 6th PLACE
83.76% District 7 9th PLACE
75.43% District 5 12th PLACE
January 14th Total: 52,361 88.00%
Ryce at (608) 745-1090 for suggestions.
ORIENTATION Sponsors are encouraged to view the Badger Boys State web site to become familiar with the program requirements. Citizen candidates are encouraged to attend a live orientation. The schedule for orientations is posted on the website at www.badgerboysstate.com. All questions can be referred to Sandy Ryce at (608) 745-1090 or sandy@wilegion.org.
Commander Bob Shappell attended the Green Bay Packers game on Sunday, November 30, 2014 at Lambeau Field. The Packers defeated the New England Patriots that day by a score of 26 to 21. Prior to the game, Commander Shappell joined the SullivanWallen Post No. 11 Color Guard on the field for the pre-game ceremonies. Pictured here left to right are; FRONT ROW: Norb Zelewske, Jerry Willems - with our Nation’s flag, Jack Gillis, and Dennis Counard. MIDDLE ROW: Tom Salentine, Commander Shappell, Tom Christensen. BACK ROW: C.J. Kelhner and Color Guard Captain Mike Kellner.
Volunteers Needed for the 78th Annual Oratorical Competition on February 14th The Department is proud to announce the 2015 High School Oratorical Scholarship Competition. The American Legion Oratorical Scholarship program is a wonderful opportunity for young people to learn about the Constitution of the United States of America. This year is the 78th year of the Department’s program. Twelve students representing each District will compete for the State title at Ripon College on February 14, 2015. It takes many volunteers to have a successful event – from moderators, to time keepers, judges, escorts, tabulators and sergeant at arms - if you’ve been a part of the competition in the past, we hope that you will join us again – if you are new to the program but would still like to volunteer, please do so as it will be well-worth your time. Please fill out the volunteer application that appears in this addition of the Badger Legionnaire and mail it to Department Headquarters. Fillable volunteer forms are also available on the Wisconsin Legion website (http://www. wilegion.org/page.content/programs/ oratorical-scholarship-program). You will be notified at a later date what your assignment will be. Thank you for your support.
The American Legion • Department of Wisconsin
78TH ANNUAL HIGH SCHOOL ORATORICAL REGIONAL/STATE CONTEST February 14, 2015 • Ripon College I would like to volunteer for the following during the Department Oratorical Contest: My First Choice:_______________________________ My Second Choice:_____________________________ Name: ________________________________________ Post #:_________________ District #:______________ Address: ______________________________________ City:__________________________________________ email address: __________________________________ Zip Code: _____________________________________ Home Phone #: _________________________________ Cell Phone #: ___________________________________ Comments: ____________________________________ ______________________________________________ Please submit no later than January 30, 2015 Mail completed form to to: WI American Legion, Attn. Dawn, PO Box 388, Portage, WI 53901
PAGE 2 “Badger Legionnaire” & “Wisconsin” The Badger Legionnaire & Wisconsin are the official publications of the Wisconsin American Legion Family and are published ten times annually, once every five weeks, 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: info@wilegion.org David A. Kurtz, Executive Editor 2014-2015 Communications Committee Kendel D. Feilen, Chairman Jeremy Nordie, Vice Chairman Ensley Brown, DEC Liaison Bernard Olson Phil Ingwell Harold Rihn Rory Burns Greg Eirich, Historian Loretta Shellman, Auxiliary Liaison Bonnie Dorniak, Auxiliary Liaison
THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE
DEPARTMENT COMMANDER On April 29, 1945, Desmond Doss’s company captured a piece of land on Okinawa overlooking a 400-foot Bob Shappell cliff. Days later, Department Commander the enemy attacked, and almost immediately 75 men fell wounded. The remaining troops retreated down to the base of the cliff. Left at the top of the cliff were the wounded, the Japanese, and Desmond Doss. For the next five hours, while his wounded comrades fought back their attackers, Doss began to lower man after man to safety down the face of the cliff using little more than a tree stump and a rope. A few weeks later, Doss was wounded when a grenade blew up next to his leg. He bandaged his own wounds. As he was being carried off the field they passed another critically wounded soldier. Doss rolled off the litter and told the medics to take the oth-
2014-15 Department Officers Commander Robert Shappell Vice Commanders Dale Oatman Rich Ruland John Thurk Dave Brisk Adjutant David A. Kurtz Sergeant-at Arms Charles Roessler Dave Wischer Service Officer James Fialkowski NECman Steve Krueger Alternate NECman Ken Rynes District Commanders 1st – Tom Strey 2nd – Dan Seehafer 3rd – Mary Lloyd 4th – Claire Goodfellow 5th – Ensley Brown 6th – Jeff Puddy 7th – Mark Lesko 8th – Jerome Krofta 9th – Bob Lemke 10th – Ed Cooper 11th – Frank Kostka 12th – Jim Chapin 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 Teresa Isensee, 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 info@wilegion.org
JANUARY 22, 2015
er man. He and another wounded soldier started to hobble off while supporting each other. Doss had his arm across the other man’s neck when he felt a bullet slam into his arm. It shattered Doss upper arm, which in turn, saved the other man’s life. On October 12, 1945, Doss received the Medal of Honor from President Harry Truman. On February 9, 1969, Tom Bennett’s company was ambushed in the Chu Pa Mountains of South Vietnam. Three men went down. Everyone else dived for cover except Tom Bennett. Despite the enemy rounds striking around him, Bennett tended to the three wounded men. Then he carried each man to safety. Throughout the day, he patched wounds and moved other wounded comrades to safety. At least twice more he ventured into the open to pull a casualty to safety. By nightfall the firing had died down. Bennett was up all night treating his many patients. As dawn broke, enemy snipers shot
several more soldiers, and Bennett instantly moved to their aid. Near day’s end another soldier was hit by sniper fire. Bennett jumped up, intent only on saving the wounded man. Rifle shots rang out. Bennett fell, his body riddled with bullets. On April 7, 1970, what would have been Bennett’s 23rd birthday, his parents received the Medal of Honor from President Richard Nixon. Both men served their country with honor. Both men were also conscientious objectors. When they entered the Army, both men were shunned and ridiculed by their fellow soldiers. They quickly, however, earned their comrades’ respect as they consistently showed that they did not have to fire weapons or take lives to serve their country. Both men, despite their religious convictions, felt a commitment to serve their country. In a letter to his parents when he enlisted in the Army, Bennett wrote, “If I am called to Nam, I will go. Out of obligation to a country I
love I will go and possibly die for a cause I vehemently disagree with. It is my obligation to give service to my country. I believe in America.” It is not the firing of weapons or participation in armed combat that defines the American service man and service woman. It is what’s inside their hearts and their souls. It is their desire to serve and unselfishly fulfill their obligations to a nation that gives them more freedoms and opportunities than any other nation in the world. I suspect that most of those who have protested and opposed our military would have difficulty understanding the motives of Desmond Doss and Tom Bennett. We, the Legion Family, must continue to support everyone who serves and continue to educate those around us of why our soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines put themselves in peril to serve their nation. Let us steadfastly honor all those who serve in the military today, no matter where they serve or what jobs they perform.
CAMP DIRECTOR It’s very quiet this time of year up at Camp American Legion. With the holidays behind us and a few Kevin Moshea Camp Director more weeks of winter left, I have time to reflect on the many successes of 2014 and look forward to an exciting 2015 season. But while I’m making plans, I’m also thinking about all the great people that make Camp really work on behalf of Wisconsin veterans and their families. The operation of Camp depends upon the hard work and dedication of a very special group of people. Our most important and valued assets are our volunteers and building sponsors. Without them Camp would not be able to operate at the level it now does. When the Camp season is in full swing and things are really humming these people
make it all happen. There are some extremely dedicated volunteers who give of themselves here at Camp American Legion. Their desire to help others is an integral part of them. It is who they are. It’s dangerous to give names because someone is usually inadvertently left out but special thanks go to Gary, Kinthy, Bob, Dave, Matt (PUFL the Clown), Nimrod (Captain Nimo) and Jim the bus driver. Along with Jerome, Jay, Brian, Mike, Grenville and all the others, they are serving veterans every day during the season. Each day these folks are piloting boats, driving campers to activities, cutting grass, cleaning the dining hall and performing kitchen chores. Great folks like Jennifer, Larry and Mary, Jay, Carol, Dale and Sherry come every weekend to help prep for the new week ahead. Jerry paints, Dick tinkers and others are doing this and that. Some come
in the spring and fall to help open and close the Camp. They all give of their time and have fun as they do. Doing volunteer work at Camp positively impacts these people in their own individual ways. Some are Legion members and veterans, others not. What makes them come is their love for this place and our healing, caring mission. It all happens every day throughout the season because of these very special, giving volunteers. Then there are the Camp Legion Sponsors who are our cornerstone. Building sponsorship is a commitment of time, talent and financial resources. Sponsors take on the responsibly for maintenance and upkeep. On every cabin a Post or County sponsorship sign proudly hangs. Some have been sponsors for more years than anyone can remember and many new sponsors have recently come on board. All of our twenty-two cabins have a
sponsor. Every part of the Legion Family is represented. Even the fish cleaning shack has a sponsor. Currently there are other buildings in need of sponsors. The Main Lodge, Women’s Quarters, Library, Bathhouse, Craft Shop, Smoke Shack and the Rainbow Flowage Pavilions are all looking for sponsors. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer or sponsoring a building at Camp, give me a call. Volunteering makes any person stand a little taller and sponsoring a building can help develop a stronger sense of purpose and reason for a Legion Family group. Being a volunteer or sponsor is a commitment and sometimes requires sacrifice but it is incredibly rewarding. Volunteers and Sponsors “ARE” Camp American Legion. They are the fabric that holds it together and make Camp American Legion what is it.
WDVA SECRETARY The Wisconsin Department of Veterans accomplished much in 2014 for Wisconsin veterans and we look forJohn A. Scocos ward to doing the WDVA Secretary same in 2015. We will continue to honor our state’s veterans by building upon our successes and remaining the best state in the nation for programs, benefits and services. The WDVA has chartered a renewed focused on taking care of our veterans and their families who have given so much for our state and nation. We set new priorities to reflect modern day realities and the needs of all generations of veterans.
We set our priorities in the 20132015 Budget and have been steadily acting on them in the past two years. We improved the long-term solvency of the Veterans Trust Fund by adding an additional $5.3 million, extended the Veterans and Surviving Spouse Property Tax Credit. We also increased funding to our state veteran service organizations that provide assistance to veterans and their families. These are only a few examples of the many steps we’ve taken to empower, improve and strengthen the resources available to our veterans. Another of our top priorities is helping veterans find employment. We created a $500,000 annual grant program for employers who hire veterans. WDVA has part-
nered with various agencies and organizations to host dozens of veteran career fairs statewide over the past four years, serving nearly 14,000 veterans. Last year alone, over 4,000 veterans and spouses attended these career fairs. We also want to ensure our veterans have a high quality of life in Wisconsin. WDVA operates three veterans homes serving nearly 1,000 veterans and their spouses across the state. Over the past three years, we have improved the financial condition of these homes, in turn improving the quality of life for veterans living there. We turned a $12.9 million deficit related to operations of our homes into a high positive income level. In order to expand access to in-
formation about WDVA programs, we created the Veterans Benefits Resource Center (VBRC), which includes phone services, online chat, walk in and email communications. This ensures every veteran who contacts us during business hours is able to immediately speak to center support staff. This is part of our continuing effort to reach our veterans – providing outreach to them and increasing their access to the things they need the most. We care about our veterans and are proud to serve them – just as they have faithfully served us. We will build upon the successes of the past year as we enter 2015 and continue Wisconsin’s great tradition of meeting the needs of our veterans as they return home from service.
JANUARY 22, 2015
THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE
Revitalization in Manitowoc Sets the Pace for 2015 Membership Department Commander Bob Shappell and Membership Chairman Dan O’Brien recently led revitalization efforts for Manitowoc Post No. 88 of the 6th District. Other major membership revitalization efforts since the Department Fall meetings have been held in the 3rd and 7th Districts. Other efforts are slated for February in the Appleton, Racine, Kenosha and Waukesha areas. A typical Revitalization Drive begins with a meeting of volunteers where Legion Family members are provided with an overview of the activity and contact information for local area veterans who can be recruited or transferred into the local post. Extensive lists of Holding Post and Expired members are pro-
vided by the National organization. The effort is preceded by Press Releases directed to local media outlets and Public Service Announcements. Volunteers combed the Manitowoc area for two days and were able to round up 50 new members for Post No. 88 through renewal, recruiting and transfers. The Revitalization was capped by an Open House at the post with sandwiches and refreshments. Department Service Officer James Fialkowski and representatives of the Manitowoc County VSO were in attendance to answer questions from local veterans regarding VA claims and benefits. Following the Open House, Commander Shappell called a special meeting to order and
spoke on the past, present and future of Post No. 88. Commander Shappell focused on the Four Pillars of The American Legion, how burnout can affect an organization and the need for periodic change. 6th District Commander Jeff Puddy of Fond du Lac Post No. 75 then installed a new slate of Post Officers and pledged the future support of the District to ensure success. The new Officers of Post No. 88 are Robert Cavanaugh, Commander; Brian Blashka, Vice Commander; Lance Furst, Adjutant; Dave Soukup, Finance Officer; Fritz Blashka, Sergeant at Arms. For more information on Post Revitalization contact Chris Schmidt by email at chris@wilegion.org or call (608) 745-1090.
FREE SKI JUMPING FOR VETERANS!
No, we’re not kidding. Once again the Snowflake Ski Tournament will allow veterans to attend the competition free of charge. The 92nd Annual tournament will be held Friday evening, January 30th and the following day starting at noon at the Snowflake Ski Club near Westby, 25 miles southeast of LaCrosse. Over twenty jump-
ers from across the US, and up to a dozen jumpers from several foreign countries will jump on a “118 meter hill,” used in Olympic competition. The Snowflake Club has been recognized by The American Legion, Department of Wisconsin for their generous support of the Wisconsin National Guard. On Friday, January 30th, at 7PM a spectacular night competition will be held. Jumping at night with lighting provides an exciting and unique atmosphere! Saturday’s competition will begin at noon. Results of both competitions will be used to determine winners. In addition to the normal jumping for points, crowd pleasing “Standing Long Jumps” will take place on Friday and Saturday after the end of regular competition. Jumpers who are brave enough try to have the longest jump of the day without falling. This is normally where new hill
records are set! Friday night will also feature a large fireworks display followed by live music and dancing. There will be opportunities for children to sled on smaller hills and dig in a large snow pile for over $100 in quarters. Food and refreshments will be available both days. Horse and Sleigh rides will also be available. The Ski Club, with the assistance of Logistics Health Incorporated (a LaCrosse based company), is admitting all veterans and their spouses at no charge upon display of a DD Form 214 or membership card in The American Legion. There is plenty of free parking, and if you arrive early enough you may be able to find a spot to watch the jumping from your car. Check out the club’s web site for pictures, a map, admission fees and an exciting YouTube video: www.snowflakeskiclub.com
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Catch the Spirit of Wisconsin! Department Commander Bob Shappell continues to present the “Spirit of Wisconsin” pin to deserving Legion Family members. This special, limited edition is awarded to Legionnaires, SAL, Auxiliary Members, and Riders to recognize special achievements in all aspects of the Legion and our many programs. Anyone can recommend someone for the award, but Post, County, and District Commanders should make
Post No. 105 Assists Local Kids
The McCann - Richards Post No. 105 of Shullsburg recently presented a check in support of the Shullsburg School Christmas Fund and the Lafayette County Child Advocacy Fund. The funds will be used to assist with basic needs such as shelter, food, utilities, and clothing. Pictured are Shullsburg School Principal Joseph Diedrich and Post No. 105 Commander Dan Christopher.
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BADGER BOYS (Continued from Front Cover) welcomed to the Board included; Dr. Dave Schuler, Dr. Nathan Gruenwald, Bill Kewan, Eric Torstenson and Rich Mannisto. Some of them have since moved on to be replced by Erik Brown, Atty. Steve Sorensen and Bill Cosh. The program staff became increasingly empowered to shape the program. This acceptance by Legionnaires and Legion leadership came about because of the long-time dedication of counselors and real-life professionals like Bishop Tom Skrenes, Dr. Mark Matosian, Dr. Gary Saunders, Bill Field, U.S. Atty. James Santelle, and Pat Braatz among
others. Those individuals have been dedicated to the program for many years and make The American Legion proud. These positive changes have come about because of the trusting relationship between the Board of Directors and those staff members who were major contributors to the program. It has taken a high degree of trust and confidence within the Legion ranks and the assurance that the program would remain intact, for this partnership to work and improve the program. Today the BBS Board of Directors continues to serve the program. Our staff counselors
and support personnel maintain the high level of excellence this program has achieved and work towards continued improvement. It is our responsibility to nurture the program and the partnership that has been built over the past decade and a half, a partnership of Legionnaires, nonLegion staff and Ripon College employees. Badger Boys State is an American Legion program and always will be an American Legion program. I am proud to have witnessed this transformation and proud to have been a part of it. Russ Hanseter, Chairman of the Board
every effort to identify deserving individuals for this recognition. Simply submit the deserving individuals name to Commander Bob. This special edition pin is only presented to recognize the efforts of Legion Family members. It is not randomly handed out and Commander Shappell will make every effort possible to personally present the pin. To nominate someone for the award contact Commander Shappell via Department headquarters at (608) 745-1090.
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PAGE 4
THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE
JANUARY 22, 2015
Vietnam Veterans Week Highlights Camps’ 90th Season The 2015 Camp American Legion season starts on May 25 and is looking to be the most exciting season ever. Here is the line-up of the special weeks scheduled this year. Please spread the word! Vietnam Veterans Week, June 8-14 at “FB (Fire Base) Camp American Legion” – Calling all Vietnam Vets who served “inCountry”. You are invited to attend this “50th Anniversary” week-long gathering. It will be a special week of camaraderie, storytelling, battle-buddy sharing, remembrance, celebration and FUN. We encourage all Vietnam Vets to come for the whole week but if you cannot, we still want you to come as a “day visitor” to your Fire Base Camp American Legion. Operation Home Front - Working Together to Eliminate Veteran Homelessness, June 1-7 –This week at Camp American Legion is designed to assist Homeless Veter-
ans and those who are at-risk. Women Veterans Week, June 15-19 – This will be our 5th year of hosting Women Veterans Week. We are reaching out to women vets and encouraging them to attend a Camp experience that will positively impact their lives. Post 9/11 Veterans Week, July 20-26 – With more post 9/11 veterans coming home from Active duty we are working to help address the physical and psychological wounds some have received. We are working to reach out to them and their families. Caregiver Respite Retreat, August 10-14 – This retreat is for caregivers of significantly wounded “Post 9/11 veterans”. The Camp experience can lift the heavy load off their shoulders even if just for those few days. Camp Serenity, Families of the Fallen, August 14-16 – This special, sacred weekend is for any
family who has lost a family member who has served in the military at any time. It includes any branch of service. It is regardless of type of casualty; meaning it does not have to be a combat death and it includes retirees as well. This weekend Camp is run by the Wisconsin National Guard’s Survivor Outreach Services. Vision & Hearing Loss Veterans Week, August 17-23 – 2015 will be the fourth year for this program and it keep getting more FUN every year. This week is for “any age” veteran with vision or hearing loss. Diabetes Camp, September 11-13 It is a very powerful weekend of education and learning to teach veterans how to manage their diabetes and live a better life. Research states that 25% of VA patients have diabetes. Nearly one in four veterans receiving care from the VA has diabetes.
Calling all ALEI Graduates!
Jerome Krofta
Wisconsin American Legion College Basic Training March 28, 2015 – 8:00AM - 5:30PM Ridge Hotel - 2900 New Pinery Road - Portage WI 53901
Candidate for Department Vice Commander √
Do you want to know more about The American Legion?
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Do you want to be a better American Legion recruiter?
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Do you want to move up in The American Legion?
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Do you want to go to National American Legion College some day?
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Have you taken The American Legion Extension Institute Course? If you answered YES to any of these questions, do we have the perfect learning experience for you!
Part of the Wisconsin American Legion’s 5 Year Membership Plan is for the National American Legion College graduates put together a Wisconsin American Legion College program. Well, we have done it! • • •
AMERICANISM, CHILDREN & YOUTH (1 Hr) PUBLIC RELATIONS (1 Hr) LEADERSHIP (2 Hrs)
• •
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LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES (1 Hr) POST OFFICERS (1 Hr) MANUAL OF CEREMONIES (1 Hr)
Be one of the first in Wisconsin to be a Basic Course Graduate! Registration can be done online by clicking on WI Legion College Basic Course on our Department website: www.wilegion.org. A fee of $20 can be paid online during registration, mailed to Department Headquarters at The American Legion, Department of Wisconsin, PO Box 388, Portage, WI 53901-0388 or paid at the door. Registrations are due by March 16. Late Registration will be $25. • • • •
“Need to Know” You don’t need to take the entire course in one sitting. A registrar will keep track of your progress. Having taken the ALEI Course is a requirement. Recommended for All Family Members. Same fee of $20 for all participants. Multiple ways to pay. There will also be Intermediate and Advanced Courses offered for graduates of the previous level.
Eighth District Commander Jerome (Jerry) Krofta announces his candidacy for the high office of Department Vice Commander. Jerry is a Paid up for Life member of Post No. 9 in Wisconsin Rapids. He served in the US Army from 1969 to 1971 as a Finance Clerk. He also served in the Wisconsin Army National Guard in the finance area from 1980 until his retirement in 2006. He took great pleasure in assisting soldiers on financial matters while looking out for the interests of the taxpayers. Throughout his 22 years of American Legion membership, he has served as Post Commander, Adjutant and Finance Officer, as well as Commander and Adjutant at the County level. He was twice a 100% Post Commander. He also enjoyed being the Post chairman for the 2008 Midwinter Conference and serving on committees for The American Legion State Bowling Tournament and American Legion State Golf Outing. Jerry is also a member of the 40 et 8, Secretary-Treasurer of the Allied Veterans Council of South Wood County and Secretary-Treasurer of his neighborhood association. Commander Jerry is endorsed by Post No. 9, the Wood County Council and the 8th District.
THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE
a little about the organization, they gave me an application and invited me to their next meeting. A month later I went to the County Fair and ran into the same group from the local post. They once again invited me to their next meeting. Well, I figured I better check the next meeting out before I ran into them again. So I attended the next meeting not knowing anyone and walked out a member of The American Legion. After attending a number of post meetings, I attended my first Department Convention and heard Camp Director Kevin Moshea share his passion about Camp American Legion. Another memorable speaker was a young veteran who was accompanied by his service dog. At the following Midwinter, I heard a camp attendee speak about what it was like to attend camp. Along the way, I got to meet many interesting Legionnaires. I always felt welcomed and a part of something great. Learning more about the Legion made me more excited about this organization. I decided to join our Post Honor Guard and after my first funeral, I under-
stood why so many serve on the honor guard. It’s something that can only be felt and not explained. FEELING WELCOMED Did you know that the critical point in membership is when a Legionnaire reaches the 4 or 5-year point? If a veteran reaches that point of continuous membership, they tend to remain members for the long run. So how do we get them to that point? By taking pride in our Post and getting out into our communities to invite veterans to your next meeting. Make members feel welcomed and appreciated at every meeting and outing. Encourage them to get involved, educate them on the Legion. We learn by observing and participating. Remember, we are all apart of the Legion Family whether we are Legion members or Auxiliary members or the SAL. Take it upon yourself to welcome a new member, take them under your wing and teach them. Attitudes are infectious-make sure yours is a positive one. Darla Porter, Post No. 10 - Wausau
Camp Helps Veterans Manage Their Diabetes Federal health statistics show that 13% of Americans 20 and older have diabetes. Another 37% have pre-diabetes, a condition marked by higher-thannormal blood sugars. That’s up from 27% a decade ago. Studies also show pre-diabetes not only set the stage for diabetes but also increases the risk of cancer by 15%. The Veterans Health Administration states that “25% of VA patients have diabetes. Nearly one in four veterans receiving care from VA has diabetes”. In response to this growing concern, Camp American Legion conducted our third “Diabetes Camp” during the 2014 season. This program has become very successful and doubled in veteran attendance.
The Diabetes Camp is a focused educational program to teach veterans how to manage their diabetes and live a healthier life. This Camp program was initiated by Ms. Diane Kesler, Registered Nurse & Certified Diabetes Educator at the VA Community Based Outpatient Clinic in Appleton. Diane and other professionals are committed to helping our veterans with diabetes. Campers go through the weekend documenting the food they eat at meals in their personal note books; having discussion groups in the dining hall or around the camp fire and getting helpful print information on diabetes. The Diabetes Camp is very much a part of our “Help to Heal”
mission and we look to continue it and grow it. It is one of the most important programs we do at Camp. To get a participant’s personal perspective on how the Diabetes Camp positively impacted his life see the letter by Steven. Steven states “All this help changed my outlook on life if not even saved my life”. Diabetes Camp is yet another successful result of all of our work in making Camp American Legion a very meaningful and relevant place for our veterans. The 2015 Diabetes Camp is scheduled for September 11-13, 2015. We look forward to it. Kevin Moshea Camp Director
ME
N R I CA LEGI0
70 YEARS F
O
Membership is always a topic that is much discussed at all levels of the organization – after all, as a membership organization, without members, we wouldn’t exist. Members of The American Legion share a common bond of having served our country. This organization is where veterans of all eras, from World War II through the Iraq and Afghan wars, stand side by side, “Still Serving America”. There are so many facets of membership that one could discuss such as our membership count or how important it is for each and every one of us to bring in new members. But I think it’s best to speak from my own experience and how I feel about The American Legion. I had been out of the service for eight years when I first met members from the local American Legion Post. I had taken my Dad to see the static display of the WWII B-17 bomber at our local airport. While walking around, a few members came up, thanked my father for his service and were about to leave when I spoke up. I told them that I was a retired Air Force veteran. After they explained
Legionnaire Recognized for 70 Years of Service
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What does it mean to give back? American Legion in Cross Plains. We’ve all heard about it and we It amounted to soliciting donawould like to give you an out- tions for scrap metal, aluminum standing example. Post No. 245 in cans, etc. He then processed the Cross Plains recognized Legion- donations to sell to a scrap dealer naire Bernard “Buddy” Schroeder. at his own home. Over the years Buddy, as he is known, has given he has raised over $100,000. He for over 70 years. He also made a large perserved his country in sonal donation to the the military proudly. latest addition at the Buddy has been a post which included a member of the Cross handicapped elevator. Plains Post for over 70 Buddy also served 4 years. During those years as Commander 70 years he has been of Post No. 245, Dane an outstanding examCounty Commander ple of giving back to and as Chaplain for of the community and his the 3rd District. country. Now as Paul HarBernard (Buddy) Schroeder Buddy started sevvey used to say; eral programs. Fifty eight years “Here is the rest of the story – ago he started “Toys for Tots” in Buddy Schroeder is 90 years-old Cross Plains. For years he was and has been battling cancer for the organizer for loaning equip- over 2 years. He still keeps givment like wheel chairs, walkers, ing and overseeing many of the crutches to those in need. He also programs he started. Buddy alstarted a food basket program for ways has one of the most positive the less fortunate. This program attitudes folks in Cross Plains has grown to nearly 100 deliveries have ever known. Buddy has a per year. He has donated hundreds saying: “If you think you have of hours of work, cash and in-kind it bad, just look around.” After donations to Wisconsin Badger a short stay in rehab, he is back Camp for challenged youth and to home at 2721 Baer St., Cross Camp American Legion. Plains, WI 53528. We are sure In 1992 Buddy started “Sanford he’d appreciate a card or a note and Son.” That effort raised mon- letting him know how much his ey for the charities on behalf of The life of service is appreciated.
Madison VA Receives Honors MADISON, Wis. — William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital in Madison yesterday was recently named a 2013 Top Performer on key quality measures by a leading accreditor of health care organizations. The hospital was recognized as part of The Joint Commission’s 2014 annual report “America’s Hospitals: Improving Quality and Safety,” for attaining and sustaining excellence in accountability measure performance for heart attack, heart failure, pneumonia, and surgical care. The Madison VA Hospital was among 1,224 hospitals in the nation and one of only 33 Wisconsin hospitals to earn the Top Performer distinction for sustained excellence during 2013. The Top Performer program recognizes hospitals for improving performance on evidence-based interventions that increase the chances of healthy outcomes for patients with certain conditions, including heart attack, heart failure, pneumonia, surgical care and stroke, as well as for inpatient psychiatric services and immunizations. This is the second year the Madison VA Hospital has been recognized as a Top Performer. The hospital was also recognized in 2012 for its performance. “We know what matters most to patients is the quality and safety of
the care they receive. That is why we have made it a top priority to improve positive patient outcomes through evidence-based care processes,” said Judy McKee, director of the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital in Madison. “Our hospital is proud to be named a Top Performer as it recognizes the knowledge, teamwork and dedication of our entire hospital staff,” McKee said. This is the second major national recognition the Madison VA Hospital has received recently. The hospital was recognized by the American Nurses Credentialing Center for excellence in nursing. “These honors reflect great credit on all the caring professionals who are dedicated to providing the very best care to the Veterans we serve every day,” McKee said. William S. Middleton VA Hospital is a 129-bed facility providing health care for about 40,000 Veterans who live in 15 counties in south central Wisconsin and in northwestern Illinois. The hospital also operates an annex primary care clinic in Madison and community-based outpatient clinics in Baraboo, Beaver Dam and Janesville. For more information about the Madison VA Hospital, visit www. madison.va.gov or www.facebook. com/MadisonVAHospital.
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THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE
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3 Antigo Ben Hoerman II John Fermanich II William Kidd K 4 Athens John Braun K 8 Waukesha Merlin Nader II Calvin Castner K 10 Wausau August Wendorf II Melvin Wilke K Dwayne Russ II 11 Green Bay Elmo Reed II 13 Richland Center Robert Bailey K 17 Arcadia Ralph Haines II 21 Kenosha Edward Jenkins II 26 Baraboo Roger Stieve V 27 Milwaukee Edward Heffner II A J Citro II 32 Menomonie Alfred Olson II 33 Neenah Donald Gomoll II 38 Appleton Gerald Wyhoski V Paul Hertziger II Earl Grelson K 40 Bangor Rodney Neumann V George Kapanke K 42 Platteville Patrick Kemnitzer V 44 Wabeno Edward Shacklett K Gaylord Johnson II Joseph Mattson K 46 Merrill Russell Scheu V 47 Portage George Anacker K Russell Hurd II 51 West Salem Mannard Jacobson K 53 Eau Claire Willard Breden II Paul Schmidt II Cecil Jenson II Francis Carr II Harrison Tietz II 54 Marshfield Marvin Wienke K Max Nelles II Gene Loos V 60 Kimberly Edward Klarner II Eugene DeBruin K Robert Olive II 65 Rome Andrew DeFelice V 70 Oshkosh Richard Shields K 71 Pewaukee Dennis Gerke 79 Burlington Norman Scherrer K Herbert Lukas II
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80 New Richmond Cyrel Frye II 83 Sheboygan Allen Wangemann II Norman Voigt II Elroy Miller K 85 Muscoda Charles Gray II 89 Minocqua Donald Fredenhagen K Vito Defrancisco V 94 Crandon Win Abney II 95 Delavan Robert Gallup II Franklin Stoneburner K William Cummings II 105 Shullsburg Joseph Shepherd V 106 Seymour Carlton Stellmacher II 120 West Allis Robert Strommen II William Leahy V 128 Stockbridge Elroy Hegewald K 133 Camp Douglas Walter Koppa K 136 Niagara James Gussert 146 Beaver Dam Earl Farwell II 149 Sheboygan Falls Richard Gilsdorf II 152 Menasha John Helms II 153 Pittsville John Peaslee II 154 Mondovi Orville Roetter K 155 Westby Burton Iverson K Marlowe Nelson K Herbert Olson II Randolph Constalie II Norman Rose K Blaine Haugen II Harlan Fremstad II LaVern Thompson K Eddie Fredrick K Lincoln Stafslien V Earl Deaver II Howard Johnson II Alton Berger II Merwin Bjornstad K Harlan Johnson V Merle McSchooler V Verlyn Sagmoen II Larry Nustad V Curtis Nelson K Ernest Erlandson K Harley May II Argyle Hagen V Gaylen Brudos V Richard Goss II Owen Koch K Orbeck Larson II Alan Aspenson K Marvin Bakkestuen II Leo Olson II Myron Storbakken II Harlan Olson K Rudolph Berger II Thomas Jacobson V 156 Fond du Lac Eugene Becker II 158 Vietnam Robert Zich V 167 Sauk City Harley Lichtenwalner K 169 Amery Joseph Roberts II Gregg Judge V 175 Loyal George Foelsch K Earl Tieman II Donald Cole II 176 Weyauwega Roy Anderson II
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180 Milwaukee Kenneth Schmidt 182 Park Falls Dale Falstad V 184 Fennimore Kenneth Adams K Mark Napp II James Lomas K 188 East Troy Robert Welch K 198 Marion Alex Kroening K 205 Janesville Paul Finley K Thomas Karleski K 207 Elmwood Frank Binkowski V 210 Waupun Clarence Zarndt II Carl Neumann K Walter Riel II 215 Pardeeville Wayne Walker II 216 Lodi Roger Clemens K 220 Soldiers Grove Doyle Lombard V James Nutter K Marvin Peterson K 226 Manawa Robert McCarville V 233 Waterloo George Wolfe V Gene Shepard II Joe Haberman K 238 Greenwood Robert Henchen II Floyd Plautz K 246 Genoa Robert Johnston II 251 Argyle Paul Phillipson II 258 Little Chute Leonard Verhasselt K 262 Luxemburg Leonard Zimmer V Richard Cmeyla II 280 Coleman Robert Cudnohufsky II 282 Markesan Charles Ondrejka K 286 Oostburg Lloyd Tendolle K 288 Cedarburg Kenneth Jones II Chester Jeziorski II 294 Hartland Dennis Leonard V 301 Woodville Stephen Sabol V 306 Green Lake Dewilton Ladwig II Jerry Bartow V 308 Gays Mills Patrick Boland V 315 Stoddard Erling Helgeson K 329 Briggsville Clark Petersen K Thomas Duddy K 351 Montello Lacey Dewitt K 359 Gilman Walter Scholbrock II 360 Waunakee Paul Syftestad II James Endres V 361 Wilmot John Rausch V Frank Rausch II 366 Princeton John Weiske K 372 Forestville Merrill Peters K 375 Mukwonago Lawrence Lutwitzi II Richard Schwall V 377 Elcho Raymond Krueger K
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382 Menomonee Falls John Schleicher II Rufus Peterson K 394 Loretta Gary Grinnell V 401 Cambria Russell Rataczak V 417 French Island Kenneth Davidson II 434 Oak Creek David Kenealy V David Paradise V 436 Wrightstown Robert Stadler II 440 Clinton Ira Williams II Ivan Risseeuw K 446 Steuben Donald Watters V 449 Brookfield Harold Fleenor V 454 Mt Calvary Evelyn Sippel II Lawrence Mueller V 455 Milwaukee Patrick Reidy II
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457 Mequon-Thiensville Charles Smith II 469 Marathon Roland Hall II Charles Stieber K 481 Madison Robert Imhoff II Donald Welch II 483 Allenton Allen Zautcke K Thomas Hartley K 488 New Berlin Louis Macakanja V 494 Caledonia Ernest Westrich II Arnold Volz II 501 Madison Maurice Reese II Roland Paul II Dwight BeaversonK 518 Green Bay Clement Bastien II 519 Stetsonville William Spreen K 534 McFarland DonaldQuandt V
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Who Will Help You? Today’s travel can involve unexpected financial risks. But you’re GUARANTEED help in case there’s a medical emergency away from home. The Legionnaire Emergency Assistance Plus (EA+) Program offers you and your family security you need while traveling. EA+ delivers high-value benefits to protect you such as: ☞ Emergency Medical Assistance ☞ Medical Evacuation & Transportation Home ☞ Travel Assistance For You & Your Companion
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Please see the February Issue for all of the Midwinter Highlights along with a listing of 2015 Midwinter Sweepstakes Winners!
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munity. Mark your calendar for April 18th and support their event for Denise’s campaign. More details will follow in the next edition of the Badger Legionnaire. Past Department Commander Ted DeMicchi is working hard on the Golf Outing scheduled for June 25, 2015 in Reedsburg at the Reedsburg Country Club. More information will be coming soon but we ask that you “save the date” on your calendar so that you don’t miss this fun summer event. Ted has promised us some exciting prizes for each hole with a major prize for a hole-in-one. Denise has told us that she is not a golfer but that she will ride with the drink cart for the day and make sure no one gets dehydrated! We hope to see you there. We continue to sell raffle tickets for our American Legion Centennial pistol. If you would like information on how you can get tickets to buy or to sell or other ways you can help Denise raise the funds she needs to run a successful campaign for National Commander you can contact her at (608)225-7253, deniserohan@ tds.net or by mail at: Denise Rohan for National Commander, PO Box 930100, Verona, WI 53593-0100.
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The Campaign for Wisconsin’s Candidate for National Commander is excited about all of the support Denise has received from posts across the state. The whole American Legion Family of Post/Unit/Squadron No. 52 is having a dinner and dance fundraising event on February 14, 2015 at their post in La Crosse. The evening starts with a roast beef dinner from 4:00 to 7:00 PM and the Seven River Jazz Band will kick off the dance at 8:00 PM until 11:00. Denise will be there and hopes that all Legion Family members will come out for a fun evening. Cross Plains American Legion Family is planning a fundraising dinner from 4:00 to 9:00 PM on April 11, 2015 at their post. If you’ve never been to their post for a meal you are really missing out on some great food. Stop out and talk with Denise and see the new renovations at the post. The following week Stoughton American Legion Family is planning a dinner also at their beautiful clubhouse at 803 North Page Street in Stoughton. The post has worked hard to transform their new clubhouse into a show piece for the com-
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Post No. 461 • Pembine Rodger French and Ed White
Post No. 479 • Milwaukee William Strong
Post No. 65 • Rome Jim Kitchen
Post No. 30 • Edgerton Allen Decker
Post No. 153 • Pittsville Marvin Kummer
Post No. 138 • Virooqua Pedar Swanson
Post No. 520 • Vesper Ron Swensen
Post No. 506 • Iron River Art Booth
Post No. 468 • Milladore Tom Hollar
Post No. 234 • Omro David Steinert
Legion Riders Play Santa at Union Grove Veterans Home Members of the 1st District Chapter of the Legion Riders of Wisconsin spent some quality time at the Wisconsin Veterans Home in Union Grove this past holiday season where they presented gift certificates to the residents of Boland Hall. Pictured here are the Riders serving root beer floats at the Christmas Party held on December 13th.