June 2015 pages 1 7

Badger

“For God & Country”

&“Wisconsin”

aire

Official Publications of The Wisconsin American Legion Family

June 11, 2015 Vol. 92, No. 5

www.wilegion.org

The mission of The American Legion, Department of Wisconsin is to provide service to veterans, their families and their communities.

Department Convention Schedule Released

The tentative schedule for the 97th Annual Department Convention, July 17-19, at the Radisson Paper Valley Hotel in Appleton has been released. Johnston – Blessman Post No. 38 of Appleton is proud to once again sponsor the Department convention. Headquarters staff will be on hand beginning Wednesday, July 15th. Meetings that day will include the Wisconsin American Legion Foundation Board of Directors. Standing Committees will begin meetings at 7AM on Thursday, July 16th. The early

starting times are necessary in order for business to be completed in advance of the Department Executive Committee meeting scheduled for 4 PM that day.

Convention sessions will begin on Friday, July 17th with District Caucuses at 7:30 AM and Opening Ceremonies at 9:00 AM. Confirmed speakers include WDVA Secretary John A. Scocos and MG Donald Dunbar, commander of the Wisconsin National Guard. Convention Committee Meetings will take place at 2:00 PM and consider a number

2015 DEPARTMENT CONVENTION SCHEDULE FRIDAY, July 17th Legion Office Registration Exhibits Blood Drive District Caucus Convention Session Dual Members Club Backwards Club WALPA Meeting

7:00 AM-5:00 PM 7:00 AM-5:00 PM 8:00 AM-5:00 PM 10:00 AM-3:00 PM 7:30 AM 9:00 AM 12:00 PM 1:00 PM 1:00 PM-2:00 PM

CONVENTION COMMITTEE MEETINGS Americanism 2:00 PM-4:00 PM Children & Youth 2:00 PM-4:00 PM Finance 2:00 PM-4:00 PM Constitutional Amendments 2:00 PM-4:00 PM Membership 2:00 PM-4:00 PM Legislative 2:00 PM-4:00 PM National/Homeland Security 2:00 PM-4:00 PM Resolutions 2:00 PM-4:00 PM VA&R 2:00 PM-4:00 PM Credentials 3:00 PM WALCAA Graduate Reception 3:30 PM WHA Meeting 4:00 PM GNUTS Social Meeting 4:30 PM

Mahler Room Convention Lobby Convention Lobby Salon D As assigned Salon AB Redwood Ebony Hickory Rosewood Parchment Pippin Cortland McIntosh Bond Crown Linden Lawrence Board Room Briarwood Hickory Redwood

SATURDAY, July 18th Legion Office Registration Exhibits Legion Election Legion Gen. Session Legion Run-Off Election Catholic Church Service Protestant Church Service Past Commanders Club Party

7:00 AM-5:00 PM 7:00 AM-10:00 AM 8:00 AM-5:00 PM 8:30 AM-10:30 AM 9:00 AM 2:00 PM-3:30 PM 5:00 PM-6:00 PM 5:00 PM-6:00 PM 7:00 PM-11:00 PM

SUNDAY, July 19th Legion Office Memorial Service Convention Session/Installation Sweepstakes Drawing

7:00 AM 8:00 AM 9:30 AM 12:00 Noon

Mahler Room Convention Lobby Convention Lobby Salon C Salon AB Salon C Salon D Lawrence Post No. 38

of Resolutions related to Legion business and veterans issues at the state and national levels.

Saturday will be a busy day at convention with the election of Department officers beginning at 8:30 AM. The convention will reconvene at 9:00 AM and many prominent speakers are expected.

Department award winners will also be recognized for their accomplishments. The Past Commanders Club of Wisconsin will hold a party at Post No. 38 that evening. Please see the Convention Registration form for details.

The 97th Annual Department Convention will wind up on Sunday. The Memorial Service will begin at 8:00 AM in the convention hall. Following the installation of the newly-elected officers and the closing ceremonies, the Grand Prize winner of the Convention Sweepstakes will be drawn. The grand prize is the winner’s choice of either $20,000 or a new vehicle from the Boucher Automotive Group. All in all it is anticipated to be a busy and exciting weekend in Appleton.

2015 DEPARTMENT CONVENTION HOUSING HOLIDAY INN 150 Nicolet Rd., Appleton, WI 54914 (920) 735-9955 $99.00 Group name Legion State Convention BEST WESTERN FOX VALLEY INN 3033 W. College Avenue Appleton, WI 54914 (920) 731-4141 $99.00 - $119.99 10% Military Discount

Ladewig-Zinkgraf Post No. 243 of Plymouth Celebrates 95 Years

Department Commander Bob Shappell and Ladewig-Zinkgraf Post No. 243 Commander Gene Blindauer cut the cake at the 95th Anniversary Celebra-

2015 Membership Goal 100.35% District 12 1st PLACE

95.39% District 2 4th PLACE

DAYS INN 210 Westhill Blvd.

Appleton, WI 54914 (920) 733-5551 $45.00

7th PLACE

COUNTRY INN & SUITES 355 Fox River Dr. Appleton, WI 54913 (920) 830-3240 $90.00

97.49% District 9 2nd PLACE

SUPER 8 3624 W. College Avenue Appleton, WI 54914 (920) 731-0880 $79.00 10% discount if you mention The American Legion

LA QUINTA INNS & SUITES 3800 W. College Avenue Appleton, WI 54914 (920) 734-7777 Starting at $94.50

tion. Commander Bob spoke of The American Legion’s history and why each Legion post’s legacy is so important to their respective community.

95.33% District 3 5th PLACE

94.42% District 8

93.81% District 6 8th PLACE

92.22% District 11 10th PLACE

90.58% District 4 11th PLACE

59,600

96.45% District 1 3rd PLACE

95.09% District 10 6th PLACE

93.32% District 7 9th PLACE

89.03% District 5 12th PLACE

June 4th Total: 57,682 • 96.69%

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 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 – Laurel Clewell 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

THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE

JUNE 11, 2015

DEPARTMENT COMMANDER At every Legion function we remember our POWs and MIAs through a simple but meaningful ceremony. Some have suggested Bob Shappell Department Commander that the POW/ MIA flag and symbol are no longer meaningful and just bring negative memories to mind for those who see them. They just don’t understand. Let me share part of a story from the Air Force Academy Association of Graduates magazine that reminded me of why we must still remember.

On June 8, 1967, two F-4C Phantom planes departed Da Nang Airbase on a reconnaissance mission over North Vietnam. One plane was manned by Capt. Victor Apodaca, Jr. and Capt. Jon Busch. Apodaca’s plane was hit by heavy ground fire. The search was suspended due to darkness, bad

weather and heavy anti-aircraft fire. No contact was made, and no evidence of the aircraft was found.

The Air Force told the families they could not determine whether or not the men survived. Neither man was among the prisoners released in 1973 from Vietnam, and the Hanoi government denied any knowledge of them.

In 2001 Victor Apodaca III removed a small piece of metal from a bag given to him by an Air Force mortuary affairs officer. Stamped with the name of his father, the dog tag was a tangible link to a man he barely remembered. Apodaca was 5 years old when his father vanished. He often wondered about his father’s fate. Did he suffer in a POW camp? Did the crash kill him instantly? “If you don’t see a body,” he said, “how do you know?” Now he knew. DNA tests proved a set of bones recovered from Vietnam were those of his father.

For Victor, the findings helped

remove a burden he carried nearly his entire life. The long journey was filled with instances of renewed hope, as well as dashed expectations. Each time the family thought there was progress being made, it was taken away from them. In 1988 the Vietnamese government turned over a set of remains that the family thought could have been his. The bones were later found to be non-human.

Three more bone fragments were repatriated in 1989, but the technology wasn’t available to test them. In 1999 DNA testing finally proved a match.

On September 16, 2001, the wait ended. It took 34 years, but Maj. Victor Apodaca Jr., a 1961 graduate of the Air Force Academy, was finally laid to rest in the Air Force Academy Cemetery. Dave Niegocki, a Colorado Springs firefighter, never met Apodaca, but he had worn a POW-MIA bracelet

engraved with Apodaca’s name for 25 years. “Until he got home, I never took it off,” said Niegocki.

After the service ended, the youngest Victor Apodaca, 11, stood next to the cherrywood casket and lined up seven POW-MIA bracelets in a row that had been given to him that day. “We’re going to bury the bracelets with dad,” said Robert Apodaca. “I always had one on, and it is in the casket with my father. I feel naked without it.”

That’s why we do it; that’s why we remember. The families of those still missing have an empty space in their lives because of unanswered questions about the fates of their loved ones who served this country so well. Keep the flags flying and keep performing those ceremonies of respect and remembrance. Cherish what these brave individuals have done for their country. Remember them, and remember their families.

DEPARTMENT ADJUTANT The summer sun is just starting to burn down on us and Department staff is in the thick of preparation David Kurtz for the 97th AnDepartment Adjutant nual Department Convention in Appleton. We are busy processing registrations and the necessary reports for the event.

In addition to convention planning, we are laying the groundwork for the 2016 Membership year. The 2016 cards will be distributed on Father’s Day, Sunday, June 21st at the Wisconsin Veterans Home at King during the annual American Legion Day. National Commander Mike Helm of Nebraska will be our special guest.

This is also the time of year when new officers are being installed at

Post, County and District levels. To ensure good communication and the continued smooth operation of Legion programs at all levels, please make sure that that updated officer reports are submitted as soon as possible. Having accurate contact information is vital to establishing and maintaining good communications. Once received at Headquarters, we can reformat the information and make it available for distribution statewide.

We are also starting to gear up for the 97th Annual National Convention. This year the convention is being held in Baltimore, Maryland from Tuesday, September 1st through Thursday, September 3rd.

The big news in advance of the convention is the possibility of a National dues increase. Delegates to the convention will consider a Resolution which calls for a $5

increase in dues, the first increase since 2008. If passed, the increase would not take effect until January 1, 2016, so everyone is encouraged to renew their membership now, before any increase might take effect. If you have internet access and a credit card, why not renew your membership for 2016 on-line? It’s easy and fast and will help your post become more efficient. Simply go to the Department website – www.wilegion.org – and click on the “renew on-line” icon. Use your membership ID number, which is contained on the address label of this newspaper, and your credit card. It will only take a minute and you’ll be all set for the 2016 membership year and avoid the possible increase.

On Sunday, August 9th the Legion Baseball All-star Game will be played at Miller Park in Mil-

waukee. The game will start following the Milwaukee Brewers vs.

St. Louis Cardinals game which starts at 1:00 PM. American Legion All-stars from across the state will compete. Great seats are available through Headquarters.

For tickets, call Dawn Brauner at (608) 745-1090 or e-mail her at dawn@wilegion.org.

The exciting developments at Camp American Legion will come to a head later this month when the Natural Resources Board decides on the proposed expansion of the camp. More details on the meeting and the decision making process appear in this edition of the Badger Legionnaire. Your input can make a difference. Take the time to write the DNR and encourage the Board to support Wisconsin veterans.

WDVA SECRETARY June 6 marks the 71st anniversary of Operation Overlord, better known as the “D-Day” invasion. It was the John A. Scocos largest amphibiWDVA Secretary ous assault in history, taking place on the shores of Normandy, France in 1944 – the turning point in the Allied victory in World War II. The National World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. bears a vast and solemn field of 4,000 gold stars, each one marking more than a hundred lives lost in the Second

To change your address: Notify Unit Secretary Unit Secretary: Notify Department Headquarters on a Member Data Form

World War. Approximately 332,200 Wisconsin men and women served in World War II and 8,390 lost their lives.

We have the benefit of remembering and reflecting on the service and sacrifice of our nation’s heroes through their stories. The Oral History Program of the Wisconsin Veterans Museum has preserved the stories of many Wisconsin veterans, some who were part of D-Day. A paratrooper in the 101st Airborne, Orville Collins of Denmark, Wisconsin landed near Foucarville, France on June 6 and immediately found himself under German fire.

In his interview, Collins described his thoughts and feelings as he took part in this momentous event: “You can hear mortars, machine guns, sporadic, all over. But still you feel alone. And I never was. I suppose it is fear. You got to admit there is fear there. I never had such a dry throat in my life.”

Milwaukee native Martin Gutekunst, a member of the Navy’s 2nd Beach Battalion, talked about landing and his reaction upon hitting Utah Beach: “And I never gave it much thought as to what was going on. Besides, I was sort of numb by the whole thing. Because it was something we

didn’t have any training in this sort of thing, with all these guns going off, the Navy guns and the other Navy firing, and the Germans had the bombs and they also had their 88 millimeter. And those were something that really gave you a scare, because they had an odd whistle to them.”

Today, we have the privilege of reflecting on the words and deeds of those who distinguished themselves on that historic day 71 years ago – who did not seek glory any more than they sought the horrors of the war. We remember their exceptional bravery and incredible sacrifice.

2015 Convention Sweepstakes!

The “Wisconsin” deadline for copy is 4 weeks before publication date.

TOP PRIZE - $20,000 or NEW CAR Publication Schedule

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

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$10,000 Vehicle Allowance NEW 2015 OR $20,000 CASH! VEHICLE from Boucher!

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Additional Entry Forms available at www.wilegion.org or call (608) 745-1090

JUNE 11, 2015

THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE

SPIRIT RUN READY TO ROLL The 2015 “Spirit Run”, Commander Bob Shappells’ motorcycle fundraising effort scheduled June 18-21, is ready to cross the state in support of the Legacy Scholarship Fund.

The Spirit Run will begin in Mequon, circle the state, and conclude on Sunday, June 21st at the 2015 American Legion Day Celebration at the Wisconsin Veterans Home in King, Wisconsin.

Cities along the event route include: Mequon, Germantown, West Bend, Beaver Dam, Columbus, Lodi, Prairie du Sac, Spring Green, Muscoda, Boscobel, Prairie Du Chien, Genoa, Coon Valley, West Salem, Onalaska, Alma, Pepin, Menomonie, Chippewa Falls, Cadott, Merrill, Antigo, Wittenberg, Clintonville, New London and Waupaca.

The money raised by the event will be used to fund scholarships for children of military personnel who died while on active duty. Commander Shappell has set an initial fundraising goal of $59,000. Posts, units and squad-

rons are encouraged to participate by raising funds locally and presenting the proceeds to Commander Shappell and the Riders at stops along the way. Individuals interested in supporting with their tax-deductible donations or taking part in the 2015 Spirit Run can register on-line at www.wilegion. org. All registered will receive a patch, pin and commemorative booklet, whether or not they participate on the “Run”.

Thursday June 18th – Opening ceremonies at Mequon Post No. 457 at 7:00 PM

2015

SPIRIT T

RUN

PAGE 3

Oconto Post Supports Local Police Volunteers from Oconto Post No. 74 held a fundraiser on May 16th. All proceeds benefitted the Oconto Police Department’s “Every 15 Minutes” program which demonstrates the effects of drinking and driving. Oconto High School Juniors and Se-

niors participated in the two-day program.

Pictured, left to right: Paul DenRuter, 2nd Vice Commander Jim Younger, Jim Jenkins, Jim Schroeder, Jim Aerts, Adjutant John Windross, Ken Exferd and Sergeant At Arms Bill Edwards.

Saturday June 20th – 8:00 AM – Depart from Onalaska Woodman’s Grocery 9515 Hwy 16 9:30 AM – Bay City for fuel 11:45 AM - Menomonie Veteran’s Ctr. - lunch and collect donations 14:15 PM - Cadott Cenex for fuel and collect donations.

Friday June 19th – 8:00 AM – Depart from West Bend Home Depot 700 W. Paradise Dr.

17:15 PM -Merrill Community Ctr. – dinner and collect donations

10:00 AM – Sauk City Kwik Trip for fuel. Sauk Prairie Harley-Davidson to collect donations.

Sunday June 21st – 7:30 AM – Depart from Merrill – Wal-Mart – 505 S Pine St.

12:30 PM - Wauzeka – lunch at Century Hall and collect donations

9:30 AM - Shiocton River Rail Bar & Grill for donations

4:40 PM - Coon Valley Post No. 116 - dinner and collect donations

11:00 AM - Arrive at the King Veteran’s Home for donations, meal and parade.

Legion Riders Provide Funeral Escort

The Department 100th Anniversary Committee Meets

The Department 100th Anniversary Committee, appointed

by Commander Shappell, met in Portage during the recent Spring meetings. There are 225 Posts in Wisconsin that will be celebrating their 100th Anniversary in 2018-19 and each is encouraged to do something in their community to celebrate this awesome event. If you don’t know if your Post is going to be 100 years old, check with Headquarters. Some thoughts to explore and celebrate are; Who founded the Post and when? Who were the charter members? Who was the Post named after? Who are notable members of the Post or notable alumni from youth programs?

What makes your Post special or unique? A good Post history will take time, so start now. Appoint a Post Centennial Committee.

Use the Legion’s Legacy Vision booklet as a guide. Use the Legion’s Centennial Celebration Workbook and web page to organize and publish your history.

Plan a Community Celebration.

Talk with senior members, Use outside resources; local media, libraries and historic societies.

Appeal to the community for information. Use on-line resources, archived newspapers, obituaries, library collection......as well as your minutes and History books.

Sharing your Post’s story will not only tell what Legionnaires have done to enrich your own community, but it will help illustrate the rich history of our organization across the country.

Visit www.centennial.legion.org and register your Post now.

David Gough 100th Anniversary Committee Chairman

Reverse Mortgages REVERSE MORTGAGES Chapter 1 of the American Legion Riders Association of Wisconsin were honored to provide a funeral escort for Air Force veteran Peter Tillema, Sr. in Racine on May 14th.

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PAGE 4

Ed Cooper

THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE

Jerome Krofta

Candidate for Department Vice Commander

Candidate for Department Vice Commander

10th District Commander Ed Cooper is a candidate for Department Vice Commander. Ed served in the US Army from 1971 to 1978 with the rank of Sergeant.

He served in Alaska, Virginia, Massachusetts and in Germany.

Ed is a ten-year member of Butler-Harmon Post No. 80 in New Richmond. He has served as Post Commander for two years and created a membership team, which has attained All-Time Highs in membership each of the last four years.

He also helped to form SAL Squadron No. 80. He has served at the County level and as 1st, 2nd and 3rd Vice-Commander and Membership Chairman prior to becoming District Commander.

He has served as Department Membership Committee Vice-Chairman for two years. He has been Department Executive Committee liaison to the VA&R Committee and the National & Homeland Security Committee. He has recently been appointed to the National Security Council and is a local Board Member for the Selective Service System.

He and his wife Janet have been married for 44 years They have two sons, Eric & Scott who are both Squadron No. 80 members, and a daughter Amy. They have 6 grandchildren, and have operated a silo repair business since 1979.

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.

Art Biesek

Sean Patchin

Candidate for Assistant Department Chaplain

Candidate for Sons of The American Legion Detachment Commander

JUNE 11, 2015

Jeff Puddy

Daniel Seehafer

Candidate for Department Vice Commander

Candidate for Department Vice Commander

6th District Commander Jeff Puddy is a candidate for Department Vice Commander. Jeff served in the US Navy from July 1983 through May 1989 as an Electronics Technician. He served four years aboard the USS Barb, a fast attack submarine stationed in San Diego.

Jeff joined The American Legion in 1995 and became a member of the TrierPuddy Post No. 75 in Fond du Lac. In 2009 he was elected as Commander of the Post for two years, he then served as Post Finance Officer for one year. He also served as District Vice Commander for two years and as District Commander for the last two years. He served as DEC liaison to the Americanism and Membership Committees.

Jeff and his wife Beth have been married for 27 years. Beth is the 6th District President for the American Legion Auxilary. They have two children, Sarah, who is a member of Unit No. 75, and Jason, a member of Post No. 75 who is currently serving on active duty in the US Navy. They also have one granddaughter, Addisyn, who is a junior member of Unit No. 75. Jeff has been an employee of Mercury Marine for the last 22 years.

Second District Commander and Past National Chaplain Daniel Seehafer is a candidate for Department Vice Commander. Dan is a Paid-up for Life member of Post No. 157 in Horicon and served as a commissioned Officer in the US Navy.

His service to God and Country includes terms as Post Adjutant, Post Commander, County Commander, District Commander, Department Chaplain, and National Chaplain. He was recognized as the “Legionnaire of the Year” in 2009 by the Dodge County Council and the 2nd District.

Reverend Seehafer serves on the National organization’s “System Worth Saving” Task Force and the National Cemetery Committee. He has served on the Department Membership, Religious Emphasis, Strategic Planning and Americanism Committees and chaired the County Youth Government program. He graduated from both The American Legion Extension Institute and the National American Legion College.

Reverend Seehafer holds degrees as a Bachelor of Arts in Pastoral Ministry and a Master of Divinity. Dan is supported by his church family and endorsed by Post No. 157, the Dodge County Council, and the Second District.

The American Legion Department of Wisconsin

97th Annual Department Convention Registration Form This is your registration form only, NOT your delegate form. Delegate forms are mailed to the post 30 days prior to Convention per the Constitution and Bylaws.

First Name_______________________ Last Name ____________________________________ Member ID Number _____________________________________________________________ District_______

AL Post # ________

Auxiliary Unit # ______

SAL Squadron # _______

Street Address _________________________________________________________________ City ________________________________________Zip _______________________________ Email _________________________________________________________________________

Art Biesek announces his candidacy for the office of Assistant Department Chaplain. He served 26 years in the Wisconsin Army National Guard, retiring as a 1st Sergeant. He has served at the Post, County and District levels. Art was the Reedsville Post No. 350 Commander when they achieved 100% membership.

He has served as the Sauk County Commander, 7th District Sergeant At Arms and the 7th District Chaplain.

Art is a true advocate for veterans and a graduate of The American Legion Extension Institute.

Sean Patchin is a candidate for Sons of The American Legion Detachment Commander.

He is a PUFL member of Verona Post No. 385, and charter member of S.A.L. Squadron No. 385.

His experience in the Legion and S.A.L. includes service as: Post Commander; Dane County Chaplain; Squadron Commander and Adjutant; Third District S.A.L Commander and Adjutant; Detachment Chaplain and Detachment Vice Commander. He is a graduate of The American Legion Extension Institute Course.

Home Phone (_________ ) _________________Cell Phone (__________ ) _________________ ITEM

QTY.

AMOUNT

TOTAL

Registration Fee

___________

$25.00

__________

Reg. Fee after July 13, 2015

___________

$30.00

__________

Total Enclosed

__________

Make check payable to The American Legion, Dept. of Wisconsin or enter credit card information below.

Cash

Check

Credit Card

Card Type__________________Card # ________________________________________________ Expiration Date ______________

Security Code _____________

Return to: The American Legion, Dept. of WI • Attn: Chris Schmidt • P.O. Box 388 • Portage, WI 53901

THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE

JUNE 11, 2015

Steven R. DuBios

Dale Oatman

Candidate for Department Commander

Candidate for Department Commander

Past Department Vice Commander Steven DuBois is a candidate for Department Commander. Steve is an 18 year Paid Up for Life member of The American Legion and is eligible for The American Legion through his service as a Pilot in the US Air Force from 19731995. Steve has flown B-52 bombers, C-123 and C-130 cargo aircraft, as well as T-39’s.

Steve served as the Commander of Post No. 278 in Balsam Lake, 12th District Vice Commander for four years, and District Commander. Steve has been Department Vice Commander and served on the Camp American Legion and Fundraising Committees, as well as DEC liaison to the Hospital Committee.

He has served as a Director and President of the Past Commanders Club. He is a member of the 40 et 8 Voiture No. 236, the Sons of The American Legion and was a member of the National American Legion Americanism Commission.

Steve recently retired as a Captain from United Airlines after 21 years of service. He has a Master’s Degree from Central Michigan University and a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota.

Steve believes that saying “Thank You” and telling our members we appreciate their hard work is the best way to help motivate each other.

As Department Commander, he promises to deliver on that and asks for your support.

Department Vice Commander Dale Oatman is a candidate for Department Commander. Dale is a life and 46 year member of Post No. 524 in White Lake receiving endorsements from his Post, County and District. He served 20 years in the Air Force with a tour of duty in Vietnam. He has a bachelor’s degree in business.

Dale is a graduate of The American Legion Extension Institute and Department Legion College-basic. He served as DEC liaison on the Policy and Communications Committees and currently serves on the Membership Committee. He serves on the National American Legion Health Administration Committee. He attended Boys State and is currently a staff member. Dale was named 2006 Legionnaire of the Year for service to his Post and community.

Dale retired as the Langlade County CVSO. His fellow CVSO’s elected him to the Association Executive Committee; CVSO Advisory Committee to the WI Department of Veterans Affairs; and Secretary/Treasurer of the WI Commissioners Association.

Dale’s community involvement includes past officer of the Knights of Columbus and past 15-year Boy Scout Leader. Dale is supported by his Auxiliary wife Rita of 43 years.

Dale has proven to be a true advocate for veterans with his wealth of knowledge of veteran’s benefits at the state and federal levels as well as his dedication to serving many Veterans Service Organizations.

David Wischer

PAGE 5

Chuck Roloff

Candidate for Department Commander

Chuck Roloff, a 46 year member of Cudworth Post No. 23 in Milwaukee is a candidate for Department Commander. He is a past Commander and has held many other offices in the post over the years.

Chuck is a past Department Vice Commander and was 5th District Commander for nearly four years. Chuck received the “Dirty Dozen” membership award for 2011-2012 and was a 100% District Commander.

Chuck serves as President of the Wisconsin American Legion Foundation which has received hundreds of thousands of dollars for Wisconsin Legion projects. He has visited many District Conferences to explain how the Foundation might be helpful for local projects. He has also served on the Department Membership Committee and was Chairman of both the Fundraising and Finance Committees.

In addition, Chuck served as chairman of the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs Council on Veterans Programs.

Chuck believes that the key to a strong organization begins at the local Post, where the public meets Legionnaires as their friends and neighbors. There can be no Department or District organization without an extremely strong post presence. The County, District and Department officers are support personnel for the local Post.

Chuck has been President and majority shareholder of his company, Lake Geneva Financial Services, since 1987. He is married to Donna and they have three grown children.

Jeremy Nordie Candidate for Sergeant at Arms

Candidate for Sergeant at Arms

David Wischer is a Candidate for reelection as a Department Sergeant at Arms. David served in the Army during the Vietnam Era and is an Honorary Life Member of the H.A. Todd Jr. Post No. 537 in Milwaukee. He has served twice as Post Commander and achieved 100% in membership in each term. David currently is serving as his Post Parliamentarian.

He has served as 4th District Sergeant at Arms for 5 years and supported the 2010 National Convention held in Milwaukee, serving as the Parade Chairman.

David is a graduate of The American Legion Extension Institute and has

served 7 years on the Department Membership Committee. He is serving his second year as Department Sergeant at Arms.

David was a citizen at Badger Boys State as a High School student and is currently involved with orientation and registration at Badger Boys State. He and his wife Trish have two sons, two grandsons and one granddaughter, with all being Members of The American Legion Family.

David has the endorsement of his Post the Milwaukee County Council, and the Fourth District.

Department Sergeant at Arms Candidate Jeremy Nordie is a member of Post No. 354 Ettrick in the Tenth District. Jeremy’s eligibility in The American Legion is a result of his service in the United States Marine Corps during the Persian Gulf conflicts.

Jeremy has been married to his wife Laura for 23 years. Laura is a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, as is his grown daughter Kathleen. He also has a grown son, Michael. He and his family are active members of their church.

Jeremy is an active member at his Post and has been the Trempealeau County Adjutant for four years. He has also served as the

10th District Sergeant at Arms. He is a charter member of the Tenth District American Legion Riders and a member of the Forty et Eight. Jeremy is a regular face at Department Conventions and Midwinter Conferences and has assisted Department staff while serving as an Assistant Department Sergeant at Arms. He is a member of the Department Communications Committee.

He is endorsed by his Post, Trempealeau County and the Tenth District. This “young” Legionnaire, Jeremy Nordie, seeks your support in electing him to the high office of Department Sergeant at Arms.

PAGE 6

THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE

The Last

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1 Germantown Roger Morris K 11 Green Bay Richard Bruehl K Donald Niehus G/L Donald Woller K Donald Walker II 14 Iola Leland Johnson II Dale Nelson II 15 Juneau Delmar Winter II 20 Waterford Merton Buchholtz II 36 West Bend Howard Kirchner K Herman Laabs II Roger Pallowick II 38 Appleton Richard Puffer K James Hintz II 39 Marinette Steven Gilman V 42 Platteville Ralph Day K 44 Wabeno James Bath K 47 Portage Sam Hunter 53 Eau Claire Lorraine McFarlane II Allyn Abraham II 62 Columbus Lance Peavler PG Rexford Williams K Reuben Tiedt K Ray Gibson II 70 Oshkosh Clair Allen II Norman Meidl II 73 Neillsville Royce Larsen II 75 Fond du Lac Robert Kaiser II Germain Thomas II Forrest Wolf K 77 Chippewa Falls George Gannon K 80 New Richmond James McKibben K 85 Muscoda Joseph Rut V 87 Rice Lake Donald Nelson K Raymond Rau II Jeff Anderson V Raymond Svea II 89 Minocqua Robert Lee V 93 Tomahawk Eugene Gryskiewicz K Orville Majerus V 96 Webster Robert Gleason V Richard Mosher II William Plath II George Sears K 97 Dodgeville John Jewell K 98 Cumberland Henry Hazelberg II 106 Seymour Allan Loney V

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112 Stanley Paul Bichanich II 114 Eagle River John Wade II 115 Elroy Rodney Knuth G/L 123 Owen Emil Rohland II 125 Chilton Herbert Bruckner II 127 Hilbert Lyle Kamps K 146 Beaver Dam Leroy Klug II Gilbert Wild K Craig Baszynski V Winfield Hackbarth K 151 Madison Gordon Kilday II Edward Zevnik K Fredric Williams P 153 Pittsville Harold Korger II 155 Westby Harlan Fremstad II 158 Maiden Rock Lloyd Rahrmann II 161 King Ken Myszka V Charles Larkee K 173 Whitewater Marie Craig II Everard Craig II 180 Milwaukee Leroy Sobieszcyk K Harry Sadowski II 182 Park Falls Martin Stelter K Perry Greenwood II 188 East Troy Joseph Key K 193 Batavia/Beechwood David Strack K 199 Reedsville Richard Beimborn V 200 Black River Falls Robert Bucholz K Gerald Paar Paul Mickelson V 205 Janesville Richard Messner K Robert Carlsen II Norman Albert II 206 Wonewoc Weldon Polk K 210 Waupun Ronald Loebe II 218 Hayward Frank Duffy K Thomas Kershaw V Edwin Persson II Donald Schlaefer II 219 Milwaukee Anthony Caravella II 223 Hillsboro Francis Blaha V Raymond Dyer II 243 Plymouth Jerome Quella II Richard Gerber II 245 Cross Plains John Foye K 250 Adams James O’Loughlin V Laverne Dierschow II 251 Argyle Donald Monson V 258 Little Chute Leland Tessen II Harold Vandenberg II Richard VanHandel K 262 Luxemburg Joseph Wessely II 263 New London Glenn Fuerst K Donald Buelow V 278 Balsam Lake Wendle Johnson K William Hoehne V

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280 Coleman Marvin Gusick K 284 Holmen Douglas Kurtz V 286 Oostburg Jacob Verhelst II Don Depagter V 288 Cedarburg Roy Eickstedt II Harry Frank II Roger Micheln II 295 Bloomer Ardell Hanson K 301 Woodville Ronald Bonte K 305 Johnson Creek Robert Baneck K 306 Green Lake Jerome Keenan K 310 Racine John Mandli II Sam Garabedian II Wesley Pottinger II Jerry Wiegel II Woodrow Svoboda II 324 Osseo Charles Bratsven K Jerald Johnson V 325 Goodman Vincent Pickard K Donald Edelbeck II 337 Pulaski James Schroeder K 340 Berlin Harry Wolff II 343 Hancock Edward Bertotto K Clarence Ninneman II Wiley Thompson K 351 Montello Albert Wronski V Leon Maass V 355 Grafton James Gehr II Ralph Barth K Leroy Paulin II 363 Denmark Lawrence Kafka K 366 Princeton George Jantz K Orval Osheim II 390 Gresham Wilford Little II Johnny Doxtator K George Ovans II Keith Raasch V 391 Fremont Levern Michels II 402 Washington Island Richard Sheehy II Glen Brolander II 415 Milwaukee Thomas Kasper II 416 Greendale Robert Gunn II Donald Rytman K Richard Cook II Alvin Dombrowski II Duane Gehling K David Sobczak V 437 Mazomanie Louie Handel II 447 Viola Keith Smith II Donald Cade K Maynard Fink II Tammy Evans P Donald Deckert II Earl Gilman II 451 Boulder Junction Roy Titel II Gary Geurts K 454 Mt Calvary Andrew Kraus K Orville Freund K 457 Mequon-Thiensville Leland Ward II Aaron Jadofsky K Joseph Kennedy K

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SEPTEMBER JUNE 25, 11, 2015 2014

Ferdinand Rigoni K 04/12/14 485 Rudolph Christopher Reinhardt II 05/23/15 Edward Slattery II 05/03/15 461 Pembine 501 Madison William Erno II 01/09/15 William Kropp K 04/11/15 470 Saukville Robert Sands II 04/01/14 Robert Krebsbach K 01/25/15 517 Dorchester Gerald Post K 01/01/15 Lyle Bunkelman II 04/26/15 Robert Flynn V 05/06/15 518 Green Bay Charles Heeren V 02/23/15 Marvin Lunde V 05/02/15 David Strehlow K 03/07/15 Rupert Steinfeldt II 05/15/15 Richard Schantz V 09/06/14 521 Fox Lake Robert Schuknecht II 04/20/15 Willis Berndt II 05/16/15 482 Bagley James Slawny K 05/22/15 Robert Lees K 04/20/15 Roy Reabe II 05/24/15 483 Allenton 538 Carlton Ralph Gehl V 05/18/15 Edwin Reinke K 05/12/15 484 Glenbeulah 546 Racine A WORD ABOUT LEGIONNAIRE INSURANCE TRUST David Baumann V 04/18/15 Thomas White K 05/21/15 A WORD ABOUT LEGIONNAIRE INSURANCE TRUST

A WORD ABOUT LEGIONNAIREINSURANCE INSURANCE TRUST A WORD ABOUT LEGIONNAIRE TRUST

The Legionnaire Insurance Trust (LIT) was formed in 1966 with two primary goals: to provide Legion families with low-cost insurance protection, and to Insurance provide a Trust source(LIT) of revenue to participating Legion The Legionnaire was formed in 1966 with two Departments.

The Legionnaire Trust (LIT) waswith formed in 1966 with two primary goals: to Insurance provide Legion families low-cost insurance primary goals: withtolow-cost insurance protection, and to to provide provide Legion a sourcefamilies of revenue participating Legion The Trust has been so successful in its over forty-five years that today over protection, and to provide a source of revenue to participating Legion Departments.

500,000 Legionnaires in 49 participating Departments are enrolled in this Departments. unique program.

The Trust has been so successful in its over forty-five years that today over The TrustLegionnaires has been so in successful in its over forty-five years that today over 500,000 49 participating Departments are enrolled in this Also, in the same period of time, almost $1 billion dollars in claim benefits 500,000 Legionnaires in 49 participating Departments are enrolled in this unique program. have been paid to Legionnaires and their families through the LIT; and unique program. over million allocations have been$1 paid to participating Legion Also,$71 in the sameinperiod of time, almost billion dollars in claim benefits Departments.

Also, in thepaid same of time,and almost billionthrough dollars in have been to period Legionnaires their$1 families theclaim LIT; benefits and have beenmillion paid toinLegionnaires and their through the LIT; and over $71 allocations have beenfamilies paid to participating Legion The first Trust insurance plan to be offered was the Hospital Income over $71 million in allocations have been paid to participating Legion Departments.

Protection plan, a program designed to pay fixed dollar amounts for Departments. periods hospital confinement. the years, other insurance coverage The firstofTrust insurance plan to Over be offered was the Hospital Income offered Accidental Death, Travel Accident, Critical The firstincluded: Trust plan to be offered was the Hospital Income Protection plan,insurance aCancer, program designed to pay fixed dollar amounts for Illness, Emergency Longinsurance Term Care, Protection plan, a Income, program designed payyears, fixedother dollar amounts for periodsDisability of hospital confinement.

OvertoAssistance, the coverage Medicare Discount Cards, Dental, Whole Life, Auto, periods ofSupplement, hospitalCancer, confinement.

OverDeath, the years, other insurance coverage offered included: Accidental Travel Accident, Critical Homeowners, Identity Theft, and Home Health Care. offered included: Cancer, Accidental Death, Travel Accident, Illness, Disability Income, Emergency Assistance, Long TermCritical Care, Illness, Disability Income, Emergency LongLife, Term Care, Medicare Supplement, Discount Cards,Assistance, Dental, Whole Auto, Since its creation, AGIA has worked closely with the Trust to develop Medicare Supplement, Discount Whole Life, Auto, Homeowners, Identity Theft, andCards, HomeDental, Health Care. insurance programs especially designed for Department members and their Homeowners, Identity Theft, and Home Health Care. families. are proud to has serve you through Trust and invite your Since its We creation, AGIA worked closelythe with the Trust to develop inquiries suggestions on any aspect of activities.

Since its and creation, AGIA has worked closely with the Trust to develop insurance programs especially designed forour Department members and their ©2015 insurance programs especially for Department members and their families. We are proud to servedesigned you through the Trust and invite your families.

We are proud to on serve through the Trust and invite your inquiries and www.thelit.com suggestions anyyou aspect of our activities.

Log on to for more information ©2015 inquiries and suggestions on any aspect of our activities. ©2015

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or contact Headquarters at (608) 745-1090.

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THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE

E

PI

RIT

O F WI S

CO

NS

S

100% POST COMMANDERS

TH

IN

100%

20

14

5

POST COMMANDERS

20

1

Post No. 255 • Luck Robert Clifton

Post No. 188 • East Troy Tom Senft

POST COMMANDERS

Post No. 207 - Elmwood Thomas COWerner M

MA N

Post No. 38 • Appleton Jeffrey Zwiers

THE SPIRIT OF WISCONSIN

Post No. 39 • Marinette Micheal McGowan

Post No. 403 • Webb Lake Keith Scherf

TEAM WISCONSIN’S CAMPAIGN It has been over ten years since I started my 4-year stretch as Wisconsin’s Department Historian. As the Historian, my function was to take pictures and record the state commander’s visits. In this role, I attended the Department Executive Committee but had no voice or vote. I spent a lot of time watching and listening to the leaders of our Department.

I also had opportunities to travel around the state to all 12 District conferences, most more than once. Again, I watched, listened and learning how the Districts are similar, but on the other hand, each District has their own traditions that make them unique.

As I watched these leaders from around the state, I learned that there are many different styles of leadership. One is not necessarily better than the other.

As long as you have the members respect and trust - tasks can and will be accomplished.

Over the years I have seen Department, District, County and Post Commanders and Presi-

dents demonstrate their passion and love for The American Legion Family. I have been blessed to hear stories about mentoring, training and building legacies that they won’t let die on their watch.

And so, they mentor another Legionnaire, Auxiliary, Squadron or Rider member to eventually take their place.

Every single place I went, in every corner of the state, I felt welcome. I wasn’t a VIP, just a Legionnaire in a strange place.

The Legion Family always made me feel at home.

We all come into each other’s lives for certain reasons. I learned something from everyone I met, at all levels.

Mostly I saw that you all have something special in your heart that makes you pay your dues and brings you to monthly meetings. But more importantly, you are in your local areas taking care of our veterans, their families and your community. You want to make sure the legacy of our family never dies.

There was a time when thinking about being a post commander

ME

O

Post No. 418 • Superior Robert McDermott

Post No. 341 - Birnamwood Richard Marien

N R I CA LEGI0

70 YEARS F

Post No. 388 • Cedar Grove Wayne Ebbers

was out of my comfort zone, but I did it because my post needed me. Then someone suggested I be a District Commander, and I stepped up. You will do the same someday, if you haven’t already.

And now here I am, on an amazing journey to be your future National Commander.

Starting this September we will begin to take this campaign nationwide. But it’s not my campaign, It is Team Wisconsin’s campaign. It is your hard work and dedication that brought attention to Wisconsin. It is your mentoring, friendship and love for this organization that helped make me who I am.

It has been over 30 years since Wisconsin had a National Commander. It is past time for us to have another one.

I am honored that you endorsed me as Wisconsin’s Candidate.

Please know, I am not doing this for myself, I’m doing this for you, the good of Wisconsin and The American Legion. I need your prayers and support now more than ever.

Denise Rohan, PDC/PDH

N

Post No. 503 • Dane Ron Clemens

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RS DE

100 %

Post No. 41 • Kaukauna Troy Hansen

PAGE 7

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JUNE 11, 2015

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LEFT: Ward Rote of Post No. 237 Footville recently received recognition for 70 continuous years of membership in The American Legion.

RIGHT: Ellery J. Vollrath of Zach Holmes Post No. 403 in Webb Lake was recently recognized for 70 continuous years of membership in The American Legion.

Ellery has been a member since his discharge from the U.S.Army Air Corps at the end of WWII. The award was presented

by Post No. 403 Commander Keith Scherf, who is also his son-in-law.

Post No. 364 • Winneconne Paul Baker

Post No. 326 • Boyd Jerry Gully

Post No. 51 - West Salem Vern Tranberg

Post No. 104 • Cuba City Don Gronemus

Post No. 73 - Neillsville Mike Smith

Post No. 366 • Onalaska Clarence Stellner

Post No. 372 Forrestville Commander: Arnie Johnsrud Adjutant: Allen Buechner

Bronsted-Searl Post No. 93 of Tomahawk presented WWII veterans Robert Koth and Howard Hetzel with certificates commemorating their 70 years as members of The American Legion. Pictured left to right are Robert Koth, Howard Hetzel and Post Commander Joe Story.

Rod J. Campbell of the Richard I. Bong Post No. 435 in Superior was awarded a Certificate of Continuous Membership to honoring his 70 Years as a loyal Legionnaire. A longtime and dedicated member, Mr. Campbell’s consistent loyalty further merits the honor of being cited as an outstanding contributor to the ideals, principles, and programs of The American Legion. The certificate was presented by Del Kangas, Post Commander.