Sons Of The American Legion (SAL)

The American Legion Third District Of Ohio

Sons Of The American Legion (SAL)

Be Active, Support The SAL

We Are The Sons Of American Pride!

Bill Towns National Children & Youth Chairman

Detachment Judge Advocate

JULY 20th. Posted

PNC Joe L. Matthews

Joe L. Matthews, national commander of The American Legion from 1972 to 1973, passed away Monday at age 97. Matthews was a member of The American Legion for 66 years, serving in dozens of positions during his membership.

A profile of Matthews, including comments from many of his friends within the Legion, will appear this week on Legion.org. To view Mr. Matthews' obituary online, click here.

Revised Junior Activities Handbook Available

It's here--your newly revised Junior Activities Handbook! On the outside, you'll see a flashy, modern cover. On the inside you'll see pictures of real Junior Auxiliary members, information on cell phone etiquette during meetings, updates on youth programs and ceremonies, a new Resources section and more. The Junior Activities Handbook is available for $1.50 through Emblem Sales, or you can download the PDF for free here. Questions? Contact us.

PACKAGES OR CARDS

A Past 12th District Commander is currently serving.

HERE IS MIKE HALL ADDRESS FOR ANY PACKAGES OR CARDS

EOC (SWF/FMF) HALL MICHAEL G.

NMCB 21 DET 1

FPO AE 09501-2101

Patriotic ride
CLINTON: The second annual Run to the Ohio Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall for veterans and other patriotic motorcyclists will be Saturday.

Riders from all over Ohio and surrounding states will participate. Among the lead vehicles will be the Mobility Conquest Wheelchair Motorcycle in honor of disabled American veterans.

A 2 p.m. ceremony will be at the wall that lists the 3,095 names of fallen soldiers.

At 7 p.m., the group will return to the memorial with Ohio's Gold and Blue Star families for a candlelight vigil dedicated to deployed and fallen soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan.

To accommodate traffic, the Towpath Trail's Clinton Trailhead and surrounding streets in the village will be closed from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday.

Signs will be posted at the trailhead off North Street and at kiosks at nearby trailheads.

Police from New Franklin will be stationed at intersections during the ride.

For more information, go to http://www.runtoohiowall.org/

Legion World Series again to be streamed live on Web site

INDIANAPOLIS — For American Legion Baseball fans, a perfect summer day is spent sitting in the stands, watching a Legion World Series game. Those who are unable to attend the upcoming World Series in Spokane, Wash., Aug. 13-17, can enjoy the next best thing: watching the games online, as they’re played. For the second year in a row, the Legion Baseball World Series will be streamed live via the Legion’s Web site.

All 14 games played this year at Avista Stadium will be available for live viewing online at www.legion.org. Fans tuning in will hear play-by-play announcements from former Major League Baseballl star Jeff Kent, as well as longtime Legion Baseball supporter Jim Darby.

Last year’s World Series in Fargo, N.D., marked the Legion’s first-ever web streaming of games. Nearly 19,000 unique visitors from 15 different countries tuned in to watch a total of 2.4 million minutes of play throughout the four-day tournament.

Fans who missed last year’s live streaming of the championship, or who simply want to see the highlights, can still watch the webcasts from the 2009 American Legion Baseball World Series. Go to www.legion.org/legiontv and click on “Baseball.”

In the meantime, remember to tune in to www.legion.org/baseball Aug. 13-17 to watch live coverage, free of charge, of the 2010 American Legion Baseball World Series.

Ohio American Legion Riders Vietnam Monument Dedication Ride

Saturday, July 31, 2010

Our monument has been completed. All Legion Riders are invited to join us in a dedication ride and ceremony on Saturday, July 31, 2010. We will meet at Post 221, at 427 Lincolnway East in Massillon, Ohio at 12 noon. Hot dogs and chips will be provided. For those coming from far away we have arranged for rooms at the Red Carpet Inn (right across the street from the Massillon Post). $55 for a queen bed and $65 for 2 double beds. Reservation number is (330) 832-1538.

We plan on leaving Post 221 at 130PM and riding approximately ½ hour to the Ohio Veterans Memorial Park at 8005 Cleveland Massillon Road, Clinton, Ohio. The dedication will take place at 200PM. After the ceremony, all are invited to spend some time looking over the Memorial Park and honoring our fallen heros.

After leaving Clinton, everyone is invited to Post 566, 2974 Cormany Rd, Akron, Ohio. Food will be provided.

Any questions, please contact Tony Contessa at (330)-688-7280

HOPE TO SEE YOU ALL THERE

Noon to 130PM – Meet at Massillon Post 221, Hot dogs & chips, Museum will be open

130PM – Motorcade departs Massillon to Clinton

200PM – Arrive Clinton Ohio Veterans Memorial Park

Program

1. Post Colors – Massillon Color Guard

2. Singing of National Anthem – Jan Stevenson

3. Dedication of Monument – Tony Contessa, Sam Postlethwait and Ray Stokes

4. Dedication Talk – Steve Masowicz – 2nd Vice Commander – State of Ohio

5. Introduction of Ohio State Commander – Dennis Clausing

6. Closing Prayer – Lowell Ripley – Chaplain ALR Post 221

7. Invitation to Akron Post 566 – Tony Contessa

8. Retrieve Colors and Taps – Massillon Color Guard

ALR POW/MIA RITTMAN RUN

On August 7, 2010 there is the American Legion Riders POW/MIA RITTMAN RUN. ALR POW/MIA Chairman Ralph Tharpe will be leading us on a ride to Western Reserve National Cemetery in Rittman, Ohio. Departure Point: Cuyahoga County Fair Grounds on Bagley Road Kickstands Up: 10:30 NOTE: Get there early! There will be a lot of riders. Cost: Free, Patches will be available for purchase for this ride.

Free Concert at Univeristy of Akron

Summer Symphonic Band

Summer favorites, show tunes and a tribute to the military.
July 22, 7:30 p.m.; free

Guzzetta Recital Hall
330-972-8301

New Korean War Exhibit

Week of July 19, 2010

The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force recently opened its renovated Korean War exhibit in the museum's Modern Flight Gallery. The 42,000-square-foot exhibit commemorates the 60th anniversary of the start of the Korean War and features 14 of the most important aircraft of the conflict. The National Museum of the United States Air Force is located on Springfield Street, six miles northeast of downtown Dayton, Ohio. Admission and parking are free. For more information, visit the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force website.

American Legion VETERANS NIGHT with the Columbus Clippers
Reserved Seating Available in Sections 1-3 & 21-25.SEATING AREAS AVAILABLE WHILE SUPPLIES LAST.
Orders must be received 10 days prior to game date for return mailing of tickets.
Later orders will be held at Will Call. Photo ID required for Will Call pickup.
ALL ORDERS must be received 5 DAYS PRIOR to game day to qualify for ticket discounts.
FRIDAY, JULY 30 - 7:05 PM
Clippers vs. Buffalo Bisons

Phone, OR Mail OR FAX (614-462-3271) order form to: Columbus Clippers, Group Sales, 330 Huntington Park Lane, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 462-2757 www.clippersbaseball.com

Armed Services Blood Drive Reminder
The next Armed Services Blood Drive will be held on Saturday, July 24, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the U.S. Army Reserve Center, 165 N. Yearling Road, next to DSCC. This month's drive is being sponsored by the Marine Corps Family Support Community (MCFSC) of Columbus, supported by the American Legion of Central Ohio, and hosted by the U.S. Army Reserve. The blood collected by the Armed Services Blood Program (ASBP), the military's exclusive blood collection agency, goes exclusively to military personnel, including a good portion to help save the lives of American forces deployed in Afghanistan and Iraq. Tentative date for the next one is Sunday, September 19th.

All blood collected will be immediately processed, and then most will be flown directly from Wright-Patterson Air Force Base by priority overseas and in theatre within a week. You cannot ask for a better, more direct way to support our troops.

For eligibility information, please see the Armed Services Blood Program webpage at http://www.militaryblood.dod.mil/Donors/can_i_donate.aspx

Food and refreshments will be provided, including sloppy joes, coney islands, baked beans, chips, pretzels, donuts, cookies, cakes, and other snacks. Drinks will include water, Gatorade, juice and juice drinks, pop, and coffee.

While walk-ins are accepted, donors are encouraged to pre-register for an appointment. Donors can search for this blood drive by zip code (43213) or city (Columbus) to register (add the date too: July 24).

Please help give a fellow serviceman or servicewoman a chance to live. Give a life-saving gift that literally comes from the heart. For more information, please contact Peter Margaritis, blood drive chairman, (614) 395-0387, or Steve Ebersole, (614) 783-6862.

You've seen the TV. Our forces overseas are heavily engaged in combat operations. Please, give a wounded GI, Marine, Airman or Sailor a great gift in honor -- a gift that literally comes from your heart.

Thanks.

Peter Margaritis
Blood Drive Chairman
American Legion Ohio 12th District Council
http://www.Blooddriveforthetroops.org
(614) 395-0387

DOD Identifies Army Casualty
            The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
            Sgt. Justin B. Allen, 23, of Coal Grove, Ohio, died July 18 in Zhari, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when he was shot by insurgents while conducting combat operations. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Hunter Army Airfield, Ga.
            For more information media may contact the 75th Ranger Regiment public affairs office at 706-545-4260.

Number 7-2010 July 16, 2010

This is the July edition of "News and Updates" bringing the latest information and updates to all National Officers and Detachment leaders.

National Convention Notes

The American Legion adopted in 1999, Resolution No. 25 (Registration Procedures at the National Convention of The American Legion). It states in part "that all delegates and alternates to the respective National Conventions of The American Legion must register prior to, or during, the National Convention. Proper registration will ensure each attendee has the necessary credentials to enter the venues of the National Convention. Without the proper credentials, access to the various venues of the National Convention, including shuttle bus transportation will be denied." All guest of The American Legion family who are eighteen (18) years of age or older will be required to register prior to attempting to enter any venue of the National Convention, including shuttle bus transportation. Guests who are younger than eighteen (18) years of age, and who are not delegates or alternates to the SAL or Jr. Auxiliary National Conventions will be provided a guest pass at no charge. To facilitate this resolution we will open registration at 9:00 am – 4:00 pm on Thursday, August 26, 2010. If you are planning on having any children with you, that will not be registered as delegates or alternates, and will be using the transportation system, please notify us before the Convention so we can note the number of under eighteen guest badges that are needed. These should be listed on your delegate/guest registration forms. Thanks and see you in Milwaukee.

NATIONAL CONVENTION – MILWAUKEE – The National Convention will be held in Ballroom D, street level, Frontier Airlines Convention Center, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. During the National Convention we ask that all delegations kindly be seated during the National Convention. We always seem to have a contingent of folks standing in the rear of the room conducting various conversations, etc. We ask that these be confined to the foyer area outside the convention ballroom. The Sergeant-at-Arms and their Assistants will assist in this effort and your cooperation and patience is requested.
SAL NATIONAL CONVENTION REGISTRATION – The hours of registration we will be open are: Thursday, August 26th, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm; Friday, August 27th, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm; and Saturday August 28th, 8:00 am – 12:00 pm. The SAL registration desk will be located in the SAL staff office area, room 203B, Mezzanine level, Frontier Airlines Convention Center.
DELEGATE STRENGTH MEMBERSHIP TARGET DATE – The delegate membership strength target date is July 28, 2010. This target date determines official seating for the National

Convention as well as computations for delegate votes. A separate memorandum will be mailed on or about July 29th to all Detachments and Departments along with a listing of the number of official delegates and the exact payment of fees for registration for the National Convention. Just a reminder – payment of delegate registration fees is mandatory per Article V, Section 3 of the National Constitution based on the full delegate strength plus any delegates at large.

NATIONAL CONVENTION ATTIRE – All delegates should be in proper dress attire while attending the Convention sessions. Coat and tie is preferred especially when receiving awards on the stage, however, casual dress (trousers, shoes and shirt) is very acceptable. Also, many speakers and visitors will be addressing the sessions and our National Convention delegates. We should be at our best. The wearing of tank tops, short shorts, and shower clogs should be discouraged by your delegation except for small children. The dress of your delegates is a reflection of your Detachment. Your attendance during the convention is important and we are very proud to represent all members Nationwide at our 39th National Convention.
NATONAL CONVENTION AGENDA – This years National Convention agenda is as follows: The National Convention Pre-NEC will start promptly at 1:00 pm, Friday, August 27, 2010. The National Convention will start immediately at 2:00 pm, Friday, August 27, 2010. More information on detailed agenda items can be found by clicking on our web page at {www.sal.legion.org}.
NATIONAL CONVENTION SPEAKERS – This is just a reminder that during the Sons National Convention, last minute or late requests for someone to address the National Convention & delegates will not be favorably considered. Some of these requests come from within the Sons as well as outside of the Legion family. The National Adjutant of the Sons of The American Legion sets the stage agenda in advance and is finalized and approved 60 days prior to the National Convention. Therefore, this type of request will not be honored unless prior approval has been received and approved in advance by the National Adjutant and/or the Internal Affairs Commission of The American Legion. To avoid possible embarrassment to any guest, group, entity, and your Detachment, you are requested to refrain from this type of activity and keep the convention on track and on schedule for your delegations for its intended purpose.
CREDENTIALS – The following official convention badges and credentials are considered acceptable official credentials for admittance to the National Convention Hall of the Sons of The American Legion in Milwaukee:

1. National Headquarters Staff Badge

2. Distinguished Guest Badge

3. News Media Credential

4. Special ID Card for Past National Commanders (Legion)

5. American Legion Convention Badge

6. American Legion Auxiliary Convention Badge

7. Sons of The American Legion Convention Badge

8. Exhibitors Badge

CONVENTION COMMITTEES – Convention Committees will be meeting on Friday, August 27th beginning at 8:30 am in the Frontier Airlines Convention Center, Rooms 102A, 102B, and 102D, street level entrance prior to the Pre-Convention National Executive Committee meeting which starts in Ballroom D at 1:00 pm.
SCOOTERS, WHEELCHAIRS – NATIONAL CONVENTION – Motorized scooters and wheelchairs along with non-motorized wheelchairs are available to rent during the National Convention in Milwaukee from the following vendors: See SAL web site for detailed information and street addresses.

Accessibility Home Medical & Rehab, telephone (414) 543-1114

Discount Mobility Products, LLC (414) 321-3500

On The Go Mobility (414) 375-4582, 7289

Metro Care (800) 227-3820

MEDICAL SERVICES – NATIONAL CONVENTION - Arrangements have been made through various agencies to provide medical services for our attendees at the Frontier Airlines Convention Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. During convention show hours our attendees, if inside the Convention Center, would go to the nearest "house" telephone, dial "6165", and then advise the dispatcher of the nature of the call. Security personnel will respond accordingly and will then be in charge of the situation. If you are attending a meeting/function at one of the two HQ’s hotels, the Hilton Milwaukee or the Hyatt Regency Milwaukee, please use any house telephone and dial "0" at the Hilton and "56" at the Hyatt. The respective operator will then dispatch emergency assistance to your location. If you decide to call 911 from your cellular telephone please contact the respective hotel emergency number listed above so the hotel may direct emergency responders to the proper location. We recommend that each attendee verify emergency medical procedures within their respective hotels subsequent to checking in to their room(s). VAMC personnel will also be available in Hall D of the Frontier Airlines Convention Center on Friday, Monday and Tuesday, August 27th, 30th, and 31st respectively to conduct our annual health screening. The VAMC personnel will not attend to emergency medical situations unless absolutely necessary. However, should our attendees desire medical services we would encourage our attendees to contact one of the hospitals listed below or follow the procedures listed above and seek the appropriate assistance.

Zablocki VA Medical Center (VAMC) Cathedral Square Urgent Card

5000 West National Avenue 734 North Jackson Street

Milwaukee, WI 53295 Milwaukee, WI 53202

(414) 384-2000 (414) 277-6500

Aurora Healthcare

945 North 12th Street

Milwaukee, WI 53233

(414) 647-3000

SALE OF RAFFLE TICKETS AT NATIONAL CONVENTION – The sale of raffle tickets and other Detachment fundraiser item(s) are prohibited at the National Convention. The only item that can be sold at the Convention site is the Convention pin from the host Detachment of Milwaukee.
TRANSPORTATION - The Shuttle Bus schedule for the National Convention in Milwaukee is as follows:

Friday, August 27, 2010 7:00 AM - 12:00 AM Saturday, August 28, 2010 7:00 AM - 12:00 AM

Sunday, August 29, 2010 6:00 AM - 12:00 AM

(Note: No Sunday service between 2:30-7:00 PM) Monday, August 30, 2010 7:00 AM - 12:00 AM Tuesday, August 31, 2010 7:00 AM - 12:00 AM Wednesday, September 1, 2010 6:00 AM - 12:00 AM Thursday, September 2, 2010 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM

There will be four (4) main routes; Blue Route – Comfort Inn & Suites downtown, Courtyard by Marriott downtown, Hampton Inn & Suites, Intercontinental, The Pfister; Green Route – Ambassador Hotel & Inn, Radisson West, Crowne Plaza West; Red Route – Best Western Airport, Clarion, Wyndham; Yellow Route – Country Inn & Suites, Comfort Suites Oak Creek, Holiday Inn-Layton, Hyatt Place. See details for your route on the schedule on the Legion web site: www.legion.org; and SAL web page: www.sal.legion.org.

NATIONAL CONVENTION PARADE/EVENT - The National Convention parade will be held on Sunday, August 29, 2010 starting at 4 pm. It will be an outdoor parade event as in years past and will start at the intersection of North Van Buren St & East Kilbourn Ave and proceed on Kilbourn Ave to 5th street where the parade ends. More information on the parade and parade route will be listed on the Legion and SAL web pages and also contained in your convention packet upon registering at National Convention. If you plan on marching with the National Sons of The American Legion, the uniform is SAL cap, khaki (tan) pants and blue pullover shirt or equivalent, if possible.
MILWAUKEE AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION. For those members and families traveling by air and needing transportation to your hotels, please go to "Go Airport Connection" at www.goairportconnection.com and type in the code AMELEG. In order for attendees to receive the $21 round trip fare to/from the Milwaukee airport you must book at least 24 hours in advance through the customized portal. This information can also be found on the SAL and Legion web pages.
TOURS & SOCIAL EVENTS. There are many tours and social events being offered during the National Convention, August 27-31, 2010. Most of these events can be found on the SAL web page at www.sal.legion.org then Click on "Coming Events". Also you can find these on the American Legion web page at www.legion.org under National Convention. Please check web pages for updates.
SPECIAL EVENT – 4 TROOPS and Michael Peterson – The American Legion will present on Monday, August 30, 2010 from 7 pm – 8 pm a special free concert at the Milwaukee Theatre, 500 W. Kilbourn Ave to convention attendees and the general public. The featured

group is "4TROOPS". Michael Peterson and The American Legion will host the event. A special flyer is available for this event and on the SAL web page under Convention.

General Information
DISTRIBUTION OF OFFICIAL NEC & NATIONAL CONVENTION MINUTES – In keeping with the latest technology and procedures, the Internal Affairs Division will be sending out the official SAL meeting minutes by electronic means (email PDF). In the past, a hard copy of the minutes was mailed to all National Officers, National Executive Committeemen, Chairman, and Past National Commanders. This new change will allow each officer above to receive and save this official document for record purposes as well as a major cost savings for the two National Executive Committee meetings and National Convention. The savings in mailing these minutes for postage alone will be well over $800 per year plus the costs of envelopes and copying. If anyone does not have computer technology or desires to receive a hard copy, please contact the SAL Liaison or National Adjutant O’Hearne. We can mail you a hard copy if requested. We will continue this procedure and evaluate it as we go along for the 2010-2011 year. Individual recommendations on this procedure should be addressed to the National Adjutant for future consideration.
SUBSCRIPTION – THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE – All members of the SAL can subscribe to The American Legion Magazine for 12 issues for only $6.00 per year. Readers can enjoy articles about foreign affairs, ordinary citizens accomplishing extraordinary things, military valor, veteran’s health care, history, etc. Keep up to date with programs of The American Legion and items of general interest. Send a check or money order for $6.00 along with your complete name, address, date of birth, phone, email and SAL ID number to: The American Legion, Data Services – N0808, Magazine Non-Member Subscriptions, PO Box 1954, Indianapolis, IN 46206.
DETACHMENT OFFICERS REPORT FORMS – Detachment officers report forms are being received at National Headquarters and the new officers are being coded into the system on a daily basis. Just a note, the National Constitution and By-Laws state that outgoing NECmen and

Alternate NECmen serve until the close of the National Convention. Therefore, all outgoing NECmen are encouraged to pass along information and work with the incoming NECmen.

Detachments are encouraged to send in their new officer report forms as soon as possible. All Detachment Officers report forms are due immediately after your Conventions, but no later than August 9th to National Headquarters. The call-in announcement for the Fall NEC meeting will be mailed during the National Convention. Timely reports will insure your Detachment leaders receive this call-in notice and receive any entitlements for the fall meetings as well as getting on any housing list. MEMBERSHIP CARDS & REGISTERS (2011) – The 2011 membership cards & registers have been printed and shipped to every Department for the 2011 membership year. Detachments are encouraged to contact your Department Headquarters for your membership cards & registers. Let’s get a jump on the 2011 membership year and get your cards out early
. Our first membership target date for 2011 is September 9, 2010, which is our 10% membership target.
RENEWAL POSTCARD SCHEDULE AND MAILING (2011) – The schedule for the mailing of the annual SAL renewal postcard mailing will be made in September, followed by the second mailing in January, then the final renewal mailing in April. These mailings are made in conjunction and subsequent to membership target dates. Therefore, please follow these membership target

dates closely. Above all, "transmit", as too many Squadrons are holding membership. This saves the organization considerable postage costs. All three mailings will be made usually within a couple of days following the target in that respective month of mailing. The membership target dates are posted on the SAL web page at {www.sal.legion.org}.

NATIONAL CHILDREN & YOUTH CONFERENCE – The annual National Children & Youth Conference will be held in Indianapolis, Indiana on September 17-19, 2010 at the Sheraton Hotel, downtown Indianapolis. For more information on this scheduled conference, agenda, and registration click {www.legion.org} under programs.
NATIONAL AMERICANISM CONFERENCE – The National Americanism Conference will be held in Indianapolis, Indiana on September 24-26, 2010 at the Sheraton Hotel, downtown Indianapolis. Included in this conference will be sessions for Boy State, Oratorical, Baseball, and Chaplains. For more information for this conference, agenda, and registration, click {www.legion.org} under programs.
SAL ‘HONORARY LIFE" CODE – Honorary life is something that can be awarded by a Squadron/Post to an individual for a specific deed or act. He must be an existing SAL member and eligible for membership in accordance with the established eligibility criteria as outlined in the SAL National Constitution. Do not confuse this with any Detachment life programs. This information is listed in the 2010 edition of the Administrative Manual (page 33). This is only a Squadron/Post award, where authorized. To report this information, you can submit a member data form and mark the appropriate block "Honorary Life". The record will be coded at National Headquarters. When the annual membership cards & registers are printed, a code "H" will appear on the membership register that denotes "Honorary Life". Older versions of the member data form do not contain this block. In that case, just write on the form wherever space is permitting. Squadron/Post Adjutants should sign this form to confirm this status.
NATIONAL UPDATE NEWSLETTER - The summer edition of the National Update newsletter is scheduled to be printed and mailed during late July/early August. All members should receive their Newsletter prior to National Convention.
DATES OF BIRTH INFORMATION - The capturing and collecting of date of birth information for the National records of our members has been a slow process. This program is outlined in the 2010 Administrative Manual, page 31. This information is contained on the membership register for every member of the Sons. Many Squadrons throughout the Country have not submitted this information accordingly. The information is needed for demographic needs as well as future actuarial studies used for insurance plans, etc. The information can be submitted accordingly by postcards, date of birth form (page 47 of the Admin Manual), member

data forms, or online at www.sal.legion.org in the change of address area in the section marked on the web page. Detachments are encouraged to pass this information on to all Squadrons and members during scheduled Conferences and Sons meetings.

Future Dates

Membership Target & Delegate Strength Date 105% July 28, 2010

National Convention – Milwaukee, WI Aug 27-29, 2010

Membership Target Date 10% (2011) Sep 9, 2010

The American Legion Day Sep 16, 2010

National Children & Youth Conference Sep 17-19, 2010

National Americanism Conference Sep 24-26, 2010

Fall NEC Meeting & Detachment Commanders Conference Oct 9-10, 2010

Membership Target Date 25% (2011) Oct 20, 2010

Membership Target Date 35% (2011) Nov 17, 2010

Membership Target Date 45% (2011) Dec 8, 2010

Membership Target Date 60% (2011) Jan 20, 2011

Membership Target Date 75% (2011) Feb 9, 2011

Washington Conference – 2011 Mar 20-23, 2011

Membership Target Date 80% (2011) Mar 9, 2011

Membership Target Date 90% (2011) April 13, 2011

Spring NEC Meeting & NMI Training April 30-May 1, 2011

Membership Target Date 100% (2011) May 11, 2011

Veterans Assistance Day May, 2011

Canine for Combat Vets

I just received a new order of Canine for Combat Vets t-shirts. If any of you or your Squadron?s have any orders for me (t-shirts, pins, POW-MIA marbles) and can email the orders to me by the end of the day Friday I would be happy to deliver the items to you in Delaware on Saturday.

I look forward to seeing you Saturday and will be awaiting your emails. They can be sent to either of the below addresses.

Have a great rest of the week.

James M (Butch) Badgett
VA & R Chairperson
K9sal@suddenlink.net
dcc@suddenlink.net

76 Freedom Car comes to Mansfield, Ohio

Driver Jerick Johnson takes The American Legion/David Law Firm 76 Freedom Car to Mansfield, Ohio, this weekend to compete in the Tim Richmond Memorial ARCA 200 at Mansfield Motorsports Park. The Mansfield race on the half-mile paved oval is sandwiched between the July 10 Prairie Meadows 200 in Newton, Iowa, and the July 31 Weis Markets 125 at Pocono Raceway in Pennsylvania.

“We are taking a partial crew to the track Saturday morning.” Johnson said. “We hope to get a few good practice laps, a good qualifying lap and a good finish.”

Mansfield is a race not originally penciled in for Team Johnson Motorsports, but is an important race if Johnson hopes to maintain or improve his position in a number of ARCA point categories. After a 20th-place finish at Iowa last Saturday, Johnson is 18th in ARCA Championship Points. He is fourth in Rookie Points, and he is first in the Hard Charger Points, a competition that determines the driver that passes the most cars during the season.

The green flag for the Mansfield race is scheduled to wave at 8 p.m. Saturday. The July 31 Pocono race is scheduled to start at 3 p.m. The Mansfield race will not be televised, but the Pocono race will air live on SPEED.

Past Detachment Commanders

The OPDCC club will meet Saturday morning at 9:15 am before our regular DEC meeting. We'll meet at headquarters. We will finalize the Mid-Winter Reverse Raffle, and any other outstanding business. Current table officers are invited to join.
Thanks
Rob Brewer

Post 69 Monthly Buffet Breakfast

Sunday, July 18th 8:00 to 11:30 am

9000 Reading Road Reading, OH

$7.00 adults/$4.50 10yrs and under All you can eat eggs, bacon, ham,goetta, sausage, biscuits, pancakes, fruit, coffee, juice and milk..there will be bake goods for purchase

Christmas in July

Unit 69 would like to invite everyone to our: Christmas in July party

9000 Reading Road. Reading, OH

Saturday, July 24th 8:00 pm to 12:00am

Downstairs Clubroom DJ Deb will provide music

AND...will Santa Arrive for pics???

Joy Niefield

YEAGER-BENSON MEMORIAL POST 199

STEAK DINNER

STEAK, BAKED POTATO, SALAD, DESSERT, ROLL AND BUTTER
$ 12.00 PER PERSON JULY 31, 2010
4:30 P.M. till 7:00 P.M. (OR GONE)
COME OUT AND ENJOY GOOD FOOD, GOOD FUN, GREAT COMRADERY
FOR MORE INFO: 513-708-1969 or 513-367-9180

ALL YOU CAN EAT BREAKFAST BUFFET
JULY 18, 2010 8:00 A.M. till 1:00 P.M.
FULL BUFFET – EGGS, BACON, SAUSAGE, BISCUITS, GRAVY, PANCAKES AND MORE
$6.00 PER ADULT 12 YEARS OLD AND UNDER $4.00
Raffle Table -- Split The Pot
FOR MORE INFO: 513-708-1969 or 513-367-9180

YEAGER-BENSON MEMORIAL POST 199,
AMERICAN LEGION
10700 CAMPBELL RD.
HARRISON, OH. 45030

SQUADRON 194

2ND ANNUAL PAT SHEA MEMORIAL BOWLING "FOR BUB'S KIDS"

SAT. JULY 31

MASON BOWL 763 READING RD. MASON, OH.

$20.00 PER PERSON - $40.00 PER TEAM

Phone: 513-398-9962

Bill Love Memorial Corn Roast

HOLLAND POST 646 1074 Clarion Ave. Holland , OH 43528

Hosted by the Lucas County Council

August 15th, 2010 at 12 PM

TICKETS: ADULTS: $4.00 CHILDREN: $3.00 HOT DOG ONLY: $1.00

Point of Contact: Paul Smith, (419) 661-2479

Harrison Veterans Color Guard is Ready to Score a Touchdown this Fundraising Season
Thank you for your purchase of our Football Mania 2009 tickets. As most of you know we paid extra money to have a winner from our group last year. Each week someone won a $20.00 prize for his or her ticket. (If there was not a top prizewinner in our group)

This way everyone has a chance to win something.

It is time for Football Mania 2010. The tickets are available as of now, for the same low donation of $20.00. You may also purchase your ticket on line at the following address. https://www.charitymania.com/give/AZ030

For more information about Harrison Veterans Color Guard or to purchase a Football Mania sweepstakes ticket, contact Al Buxton, 513-481-7336/225-1489 or Gary Hembree, 513-367-4025/312-4887.

Thank you for helping!

On behalf of the entire Harrison Veterans Color Guard, we would like to thank you for all the time and effort in helping us with this fundraiser and making it a success.

For God and Country,

Al Buxton, Color Guard Chairman

Gary Hembree, Post Commander

__________________________________________________________

Executive Committee Meeting

This is a reminder that the Executive Committee of the Detachment of Ohio - Sons of The American Legion will meet at 10:00 AM on Saturday, July 17, 2010 at Department Headquarters in Delaware, Ohio. The meeting is expected to last approximately two hours.

Among the items of business to discuss at this session will be finalizing the list of delegates to the National Convention in Milwaukee (subject to housing reservations being received at HQ by Wednesday, July 21st) and any other convention-related items.

We will also receive the reports of the Detachment officers and Commission and Committee Chairmen. As usual, I would ask everyone to provide a copy of their report to me electronically, if possible, to facilitate the production of the minutes in a timely fashion.

For those members new to the DEC, dress is coat and tie, please. Mike Wiswell will have expense report forms available for everyone.

Note that the Department Finance Committee will also be meeting at HQ at the same time, so parking around the office will be at a premium. Please car pool as much as possible to minimize the number of vehicles competing for spaces.

JUMP START

In an effort to get a jump on the August 20, 2010 "Paperwork Cleared" membership target, please check around the squadrons in your respective districts and bring as many of the following items as you can to the DEC meeting next week.

1) 2011 Officer Certification Forms

2) Remaining 2010 Membership Cards

3) Paid-up 2011 Membership Cards -- Those Squadrons that have already been cleared should be able to at least pay for their current officers.

With a little bit of work from everyone we should be able to eliminate much of our annual "zeros" problem early.

For God and Country,

Scott J. Thornton
Detachment Adjutant, Ohio
Sons of The American Legion

Vote for Shelby World Series logo

Now that Shelby, N.C., is the official site for The American Legion Baseball World Series, steps have been taken to announce this milestone in Legion baseball history. Shelby's World Series Committee has created a survey that features the design of four logos, but there can only be one winner. In order to make a final selection, they need feedback from Legion baseball fans.

Cast a vote by clicking here. The deadline to vote is July 31.

SAL 29 Zanesville

Squadron29 is holding its first annual golf outing September 19th, 2010 at 8:30 am at the Crystal Springs Golf course 745 N Hopewell Rd, Hopewell, Oh. It is approximately 10 miles from Post 29 in Zanesville. Entry fee is $55.00 per player includes cart, green fee, food at the turn, and steak dinner at the post after the outing. For more information, please contact First Vice Commander Bill Fleming at 740 319-0437 or Randy Newell at

740 408-6559 or squadron29@hotmail.com. It is open for Legion, Auxiliary and SAL members only. Make checks payable to First Vice Commander William Fleming 979 Linden Ave, Zanesville, Ohio 43701.
Thank you.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
Larry Shanks
SAL 29 Commander
Zanesville, Oh

REMINDER FROM THE 12th DISTRICT COUNCIL
The next Armed Services Blood Drive will be held on Saturday, July 24, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the U.S. Army Reserve Center, 165 N. Yearling Road, next to DSCC. This month's drive is being sponsored by the Marine Corps Family Support Community (MCFSC) of Columbus, supported by the American Legion of Central Ohio, and hosted by the U.S. Army Reserve. The blood collected by the Armed Services Blood Program (ASBP), the military's exclusive blood collection agency, goes exclusively to military personnel, including a good portion to help save the lives of American forces deployed in Afghanistan and Iraq. Tentative date for the next one is Sunday, September 19th.

All blood collected will be immediately processed, and then most will be flown directly from Wright-Patterson Air Force Base by priority overseas and in theatre within a week. You cannot ask for a better, more direct way to support our troops.

For eligibility information, please see the Armed Services Blood Program webpage at http://www.militaryblood.dod.mil/Donors/can_i_donate.aspx

Food and refreshments will be provided, including sloppy joes, coney islands, baked beans, chips, pretzels, donuts, cookies, cakes, and other snacks. Drinks will include water, Gatorade, juice and juice drinks, pop, and coffee.

While walk-ins are accepted, donors are encouraged to pre-register for an appointment. Donors can search for this blood drive by zip code (43213) or city (Columbus) to register (add the date too: July 24).

Please help give a fellow serviceman or servicewoman a chance to live. Give a life-saving gift that literally comes from the heart. For more information, please contact Peter Margaritis, blood drive chairman, (614) 395-0387, or Steve Ebersole, (614) 783-6862.

You've seen the TV. Our forces overseas are heavily engaged in combat operations. Please, give a wounded GI, Marine, Airman or Sailor a great gift in honor -- a gift that literally comes from your heart.

Thanks.

Peter Margaritis
Blood Drive Chairman
American Legion Ohio 12th District Council
http://www.Blooddriveforthetroops.org
(614) 395-0387

New VA regulations will simplify PTSD claims process for veterans

Washington (July 8, 2010) – While The American Legion welcomed new VA regulations that make it easier for veterans to claim disabilities from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), it also urged the agency to allow private practitioners to diagnose and treat the condition.

The new VA regulations assume that veterans who served in combat zones may suffer from one or more traumatic events (“stressors”) that prove service-connection for PTSD disability claims. Veterans no longer need to provide documentation – sometimes difficult or impossible to obtain – that proves they experienced a specific traumatic event at a certain time and place.

“These new regulations are a great step forward for veterans of any war era,” said Barry Searle, director of The American Legion’s veterans affairs and rehabilitation division. “They’ve already been exposed to traumatic events or conditions. Now they don’t have to fight another battle with their own government to get their PTSD disabilities recognized.”

Searle disagrees with VA’s continuing requirement that PTSD must be diagnosed and treated by the agency’s own medical staff – not private practitioners.

“This requirement seems to be a step backward in an otherwise commendable move by the VA,” Searle said. “Private health-care providers should be given the opportunity to work with veterans and diagnose those who suffer from PTSD.” He said that if VA has concerns about the consistency of PTSD assessment standards, it should create a certification process for private practitioners that would satisfy its requirements.

The new regulations for proving PTSD disabilities should also have a positive impact on the VA claims backlog, according to one of Searle’s deputy directors, Ian de Planque. “Research and development for stressors in this type of claim can be very time-consuming. The results are often fruitless because the necessary records may not exist – record-keeping in combat zones or during military operations is sometimes inadequate.”

De Planque said that much of the time VA spends on documenting PTSD cases can now be used to help reduce the agency’s disability claims backlog.

Referring to VA’s continued exclusion of private doctors in the diagnosis and treatment of PTSD, de Planque agreed that VA needs to guarantee a certain level of expertise among doctors who deal with the traumas of warfare. “But many private practitioners are quite experienced in dealing with this sort of trauma and are fully capable of rendering authoritative medical opinions.

“Furthermore, VA allows for private medical opinions in every other area of disability claims,” de Planque said.

Media contact: Marty Callaghan at mcallaghan@legion.org or 202-263-5758/202-215-8644.

Source: The American Legion

Job Corps and VETS Launch Veteran Employment Project
All expenses paid – including housing, job placement and transition support
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL)’s Employment and Training Administration and the Veterans’ Employment and Training Service have announced a demonstration project to assist eligible veterans who have recently left the military in gaining enhanced skills to compete in the civilian workplace.
This project will apply the comprehensive training model of Job Corps – a no-cost education and vocational training program administered by DOL – to support the education and training of 18- to 24-year-old veterans. The initial project will enable young veterans to live and train in one of three Job Corps centers: Atterbury Job Corps Center in Edinburgh, Indiana; Earle C. Clements Job Corps Center in Morganfield, Kentucky; and Excelsior Springs Job Corps Center in Excelsior Springs, Missouri.
This demonstration project supports the Secretary of Labor’s goal of “Good Jobs for Everyone.” It will recruit eligible veterans and teach them the academic, career, technical and social skills they need to become employed. This education and training will be provided to them through services provided by Job Corps.
Veterans accepted in the demonstration project will live among non-veterans and other veterans who are also transitioning from the military to civilian life. One of the Job Corps program's key benefits is its post-graduate support. When veterans are ready to begin transitioning into their careers, Job Corps staff will assist them in job searching, resume drafting and job interviewing skills. Job Corps will provide graduates with transition services for up to 21 months after graduation, including assistance with housing, transportation and other support services. Upon completion of training, veterans will be assigned to career transition counselors to assist them with job placement or enrollment in higher education.
Participation by veterans in this demonstration project will be free, including transportation to and from the Job Corps center, housing, meals, basic medical services, academic and career technical training, bi-weekly living allowances, and job placement and post-graduation support.
For an overview of the program, including locations of Job Corps centers, click here.
For a list of FAQs about the program, click here.
To view the program brochure, click here.
Applications for this program are currently being accepted, and DOL-VETS officials are hoping to fill the available training positions as soon as possible. Veterans are urged to apply by calling the Job Corps at 1-800-733-JOBS.

60th Anniversary
As the 60th anniversary of the beginning of the Korean War approaches on June 25, now is a good time to let Korean War Veterans know that the Republic of Korea wants to directly thank them for their courageous service and sacrifice on behalf of freedom. A letter signed by the President of the Republic of Korea expressing that free nation's profound gratitude is available to each living Korean War Veteran and can be obtained on line at http://eng.koreanwar60.go.kr/apply.asp or by writing to: U.S. Branch ROK 60th AKW Commemoration Committee, 2450 Massachusetts Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20008.

Cordray Seeks Restraining Orders Against Sham "Veterans" Group Tied to Shady Practices
(COLUMBUS, Ohio) - Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray is seeking emergency court orders to prevent Ohioans' contributions from being collected by a Florida-based "veterans" charity being investigated by several states. He also noted troubling revelations that the man who appears to have orchestrated this sham charity made hundreds of thousands of dollars in political contributions to candidates throughout the United States and in Ohio.
Applications for a temporary restraining order against the U.S. Navy Veterans Association and its officers were filed yesterday in Hamilton and Fairfield counties. They target UPS mail drops rented by the U. S. Navy Veterans Association (USNVA) in those counties. The Attorney General is seeking permission to hold contributions that arrive while the investigation continues.
On May 28, Cordray ordered the USNVA to stop contacting Ohio residents for contributions after determining that the group's registration documents were plagued with irregularities. Those documents contain false and misleading information, including the names of association officers who appear to be fictional.
"Our investigators have not been able to locate any of the Ohio officers of the USNVA, although, oddly enough, the organization's national counsel is based here," Cordray said. "Through the counsel, USNVA has advised us that it does not consider the order to be valid and that it does not have to comply with our order to cease and desist fundraising in Ohio.
"The closer we look at this organization, the more outrageous its conduct appears. Since 2003, Ohioans have contributed close to $1.9 million to the U.S. Navy Veterans Association. However, the evidence is mounting that the operation is misrepresenting its mission. It is trading on the good name of our armed forces and patriotic Americans to solicit funds that it says will be used to assist veterans directly. Instead, it appears the funds are going to political campaigns. That is fraudulent and deceptive.
"As more information emerges about this group and Bobby Thompson, the individual connected with it, the more troubled I am. No one can locate Thompson now-he has disappeared. This is extremely questionable behavior on behalf of a man who had access to millions of dollars raised in the name of Navy veterans. While very little concrete evidence is available how those funds were spent helping vets or their families, a great deal of information is available about political contributions made by Thompson personally to candidates or through the political action committee he created and to which he was the sole contributor, NAVPAC.
"Spread the word. Tell your friends and family. We want all Ohioans to know not to contribute to the U.S. Navy Veterans Association."

Seven Missing WWII Airmen Identified

                 The Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office announced today that the remains of seven servicemen, missing in action from World War II, have been identified and will be returned to their families for burial with full military honors.
                 Army Capt. Joseph M. Olbinski, Chicago; 1st Lt. Joseph J. Auld, Floral Park, N.Y.; 1st Lt. Robert M. Anderson, Millen, Ga.; Tech. Sgt. Clarence E. Frantz, Tyrone, Penn.; Pfc. Richard M. Dawson, Haynesville, Va.; Pvt. Robert L. Crane, Sacramento, Calif.; and Pvt. Fred G. Fagan, Piedmont, Ala., were identified and all are to be interred July 15 in Arlington National Cemetery.
                 On May 23, 1944, the men were aboard a C-47A Skytrain that departed Dinjan, India, on an airdrop mission to resupply Allied forces near Myitkyina, Burma. When the crew failed to return, air and ground searches found no evidence of the aircraft along the intended flight path.

Soldier Missing In Action from World War I Identified

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office announced today that the remains of a serviceman, missing in action from World War I, have been identified and returned to his family for burial with full military honors.

Army Pvt. Thomas D. Costello of New York, N.Y., will be buried on July 12 at Arlington National Cemetery.

On Sept. 16, 1918, as part of the 60^th Infantry Regiment, 1^st Brigade, 5^th Infantry Division, Costello encountered heavy enemy artillery barrage and machine gun fire near Jaulny, France, in a wooded area known as Bois de Bonvaux. He was killed during the battle and his remains were buried with two other soldiers in a wooded area between Bois de Bonvaux and Bois de Grand Fontaine

Sydney Schanberg's exposé "McCain and the POW Cover-Up

One thing about the POW story is clear: if American prisoners were dishonored by being written off and left to die, that’s something the American public ought to know about.

10 Key Pieces of Evidence That Men Were Left Behind

10. In 1990, Col. Millard Peck, a decorated infantry veteran of Vietnam then working at the DIA as chief of the Asia Division for Current Intelligence, asked for the job of chief of the DIA’s Special Office for Prisoners of War and Missing in Action. His reason for seeking the transfer, which was not a promotion, was that he had heard from officials throughout the Pentagon that the POW/MIA office had been turned into a waste-disposal unit for getting rid of unwanted evidence about live prisoners—a “black hole,” these officials called it.

Peck explained all this in his telling resignation letter of Feb. 12, 1991, eight months after he had taken the job. He said he viewed it as “sort of a holy crusade” to restore the integrity of the office but was defeated by the Pentagon machine. The four-page, single-spaced letter was scathing, describing the putative search for missing men as “a cover-up.”

Peck charged that, at its top echelons, the Pentagon had embraced a “mind-set to debunk” all evidence of prisoners left behind. “That national leaders continue to address the prisoner of war and missing in action issue as the ‘highest national priority,’ is a travesty,” he wrote. “The entire charade does not appear to be an honest effort, and may never have been. ... Practically all analysis is directed to finding fault with the source. Rarely has there been any effective, active follow through on any of the sightings, nor is there a responsive ‘action arm’ to routinely and aggressively pursue leads.”

“I became painfully aware,” his letter continued, “that I was not really in charge of my own office, but was merely a figurehead or whipping boy for a larger and totally Machiavellian group of players outside of DIA ... I feel strongly that this issue is being manipulated and controlled at a higher level, not with the goal of resolving it, but more to obfuscate the question of live prisoners and give the illusion of progress through hyperactivity.” He named no names but said these players are “unscrupulous people in the Government or associated with the Government” who “have maintained their distance and remained hidden in the shadows, while using the [POW] Office as a ‘toxic waste dump’ to bury the whole ‘mess’ out of sight.” Peck added that “military officers ... who in some manner have ‘rocked the boat’ [have] quickly come to grief.”

Peck concluded, “From what I have witnessed, it appears that any soldier left in Vietnam, even inadvertently, was, in fact, abandoned years ago, and that the farce that is being played is no more than political legerdemain done with ‘smoke and mirrors’ to stall the issue until it dies a natural death.”

The disillusioned colonel not only resigned but asked to be retired immediately from active military service. The press never followed up.

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1st Vice Commander

I visited the American Legion Dept. Convention June 25th - 27th along with the other table officers and got to talk with many Legion and Auxiliary members. To let all know they are proud of the Sons of the American Legion and our accomplishments. So let 's keep up the good work and continue to work on our next goals. By now you should have all your old cards mailed in so you can get your 2011 membership drive out of the starting blocks.
Guys please do not sit on your cards as we need to start the year out right. Remember to get cards and monies mailed in as soon as you receive them. Your quick actions will help all concerned and get the Detachment of Ohio , your District, and your Squadrons high honors. Also when you get your Calendars figured out get in contact with Detachment Officers if you would like a visit.
Let's "Get R Done" in 2011.

For God and Country,

Steve Honigfort
Sons of The American Legion
Detachment of Ohio
1st Vice Commander

2ND VICE COMMANDER
What a great time at the department convention. Thanks goes to Mike Wiswell for the nice rooms and congratulations to Steve Masowick on his move to 2nd vice in the department I know you will do a great job.Let's not forget what the the of July is all about if it was not for the veterans we would not have a Independence day so lets thank a vet.I know its early but lets try and sell them Harley tickets they have been selling pretty good. so lets keep up the work so if need more tickets you can call me at 740-749-3263 or email me glang3263@roadrunner.com.thanks to everybody that turn tickets back in already It makes It easier when they are turned in early.
Lets all have a GOOD 4TH OF JULY.

GARY LANG
2ND VICE COMMANDER
DETACHMENT OF OHIO

NATIONAL CONVENTION HOUSING DEADLINE

Deadline for housing is July 21^st. That is not a postmark date. Room selections may not be available to those who delay in getting their reservation in early.

Mike

NATIONAL CONVENTION PARADE

Please visit the website to view the Parade Map: http://www.legion.org/convention.

DIVISION I
Assemble at 3:15PM
At the intersections of North Van Buren and East Kilbourn
Harley Davidson Museum parking lot for Legion Riders & American Legion Racing
Facing West on East Kilbourn (South side of the road) for all other Division I Units

DIVISION III
Ohio Assemble at 4:15PM
At the intersections of East Kilbourne and North Van Buren facing West
Vehicles to assemble on the South side of E. Kilbourne facing West, at N. Van Buren
Marchers to assemble on the South side of E. Kilbourne facing West, at N. Van Buren

Canines For Combat Vets

I want to thank any and all of you who have done anything to support our Canines For Combat Vets Program in any way. I believe wholeheartedly in this program and your efforts show that you do too.

With the 4th of July weekend coming up I would ask that your thoughts and prayers be with those men and women currently serving in the military both at home and abroad. Not just this weekend but at all times.

Sincerely

James M (Butch) Badgett
VA & R Chairperson
123 Maple Street
Marietta OH 45750
740-373-6457/740-525-2653
dcc@suddenlink.net

12th District SAL

The 12th District SAL will be holding its 2nd annual reverse raffle on August 7th at Post 532. The raffle will start at 5pm. 200 tickets will be sold with a $1,000 grand prize. Other cash prizes will be given out. Tickets are $10. Contact Dan Finnell at sp964@wowway.com for tickets. Entertainment to follow the raffle.

Dan Finnell
12th District SAL Commander
CWF Chairman Detachment of Ohio

SUMMIT COUNTY STAND DOWN

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY TO EACH AND ALL OF YOU.....

May your Historic Holiday be the best with loved ones and friends....

REMEMBER: our July 6th meeting is on a "TUESDAY" that is this coming Tuesday at regular time 2pm Ed Hughes will be taking the last orders for Red T-shirts and payment for same....\

Hope to see you there.

Laura Williams Dunlop/Chair

Interested in American Legion Rider Vests, Jackets, and Chaps?

The American Legion Riders section of Emblem Sales offers loads of new gear and accessories at competitive prices. Get your new name tags or chaps at Emblem and see part of the proceeds flow into The American Legion's many programs for veterans, children and youth of America.

View the latest offerings at www.emblem.legion.org.

PICKER’S NIGHT
AMERICAN LEGION POST 468
Make your own Tacos: $.75 Domestic Bottled Beer: $1.00 Margaritas: $2.00
All Picker’s eat free and receive 3 free drink tickets.
Call Mike if any questions (419) 601-4653
5580 Centennial Rd., Sylvania Township
Beginning July 6th, 2010
1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month, at 7:30 pm to 11:00 pm
ALL PICKERS WELCOME, LOTS OF ROOM, LOTS OF FUN, SOUND SYSTEM AVAILABLE.

Veterans' Medallion Available for Order
New Option for Marking Veterans' Graves in Private Cemeteries

WASHINGTON (June 29, 2010) - Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric Shinseki announced today that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is offering bronze medallions to attach to existing, privately purchased headstones or markers, signifying a deceased's status as a Veteran.

"For Veterans not buried in a national or state Veterans cemetery, or those without a government grave marker, VA is pleased to offer this option that highlights their service and sacrifices for our country," said Secretary Shinseki.

The new item can be furnished instead of a traditional government headstone or marker for Veterans whose death occurred on or after Nov. 1, 1990, and whose grave in a private cemetery is marked with a privately purchased headstone or marker.

Under federal law, eligible Veterans buried in a private cemetery are entitled to either a government-furnished grave marker or the new medallion, but not both. Veterans buried in a national or state Veterans cemetery will receive a government headstone or marker of the standard design authorized at that cemetery.

The medallion is available in three sizes: 5 inches, 3 inches and 1 ½ inches in width. Each bronze medallion features the image of a folded burial flag adorned with laurels and is inscribed with the word "Veteran" at the top and the branch of service at the bottom.

Next of kin will receive the medallion, along with a kit that will allow the family or the staff of a private cemetery to affix the medallion to a headstone, grave marker, mausoleum or columbarium niche cover.

More information about VA-furnished headstones, markers and medallions can be found at http://www.cem.va.gov/cem/hm/hmtype.asp.

VA is currently developing an application form for ordering the medallion. Until it is available, applicants may use the form for ordering government headstones and markers, VA Form 40-1330. Instructions on how to apply for a medallion are found on the VA Web site at www.cem.va.gov/hm_hm.asp.

Veterans with a discharge issued under conditions other than dishonorable, their spouses and eligible dependent children can be buried in a VA national cemetery. Other burial benefits available for all eligible Veterans, regardless of whether they are buried in a national cemetery or a private cemetery, include a burial flag, a Presidential Memorial Certificate and a government headstone or grave marker.

The new medallions will be available only to Veterans buried in private cemeteries without a government headstone or marker. Families of eligible decedents may also order a memorial headstone or marker when remains are not available for interment.

VA operates 131 national cemeteries in 39 states and Puerto Rico and 33 soldiers' lots and monument sites. More than 3 million Americans, including Veterans of every war and conflict -- from the Revolutionary War to the current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan -- are buried in VA's national cemeteries on more than 19,000 acres.

Information on VA burial benefits can be obtained from national cemetery offices, from the VA Web site on the Internet at www.cem.va.gov or by calling VA regional offices toll-free at 1-800-827-1000.

Sailor Missing From Korean War Identified

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing in action from the Korean War, have been identified and are being returned to his family for burial with full military honors.

U.S. Navy Ensign Robert W. Langwell, of Columbus, Ind., will be buried in Arlington National Cemetery on July 12. On Oct. 1, 1950, Langwell was serving on the minesweeper USS Magpie when it sank after striking an enemy mine off the coast of Chuksan-ri, South Korea. Twelve crewmen were rescued, but Langwell was one of 20 men lost at sea.

With Langwell's accounting, 8,025 service members still remain missing from the Korean War.

Sydney Schanberg's exposé "McCain and the POW Cover-Up

One thing about the POW story is clear: if American prisoners were dishonored by being written off and left to die, that’s something the American public ought to know about.

10 Key Pieces of Evidence That Men Were Left Behind

9. There is also evidence that in the first months of Ronald Reagan’s presidency in 1981, the White House received a ransom proposal for a number of POWs being held by Hanoi in Indochina. The offer, which was passed to Washington from an official of a third country, was apparently discussed at a meeting in the Roosevelt Room attended by Reagan, Vice President Bush, CIA director William Casey, and National Security Adviser Richard Allen. Allen confirmed the offer in sworn testimony to the Senate POW committee on June 23, 1992.

Allen was allowed to testify behind closed doors and no information was released. But a San Diego Union-Tribune reporter, Robert Caldwell, obtained the portion relating to the ransom offer and reported on it. The ransom request was for $4 billion, Allen testified. He said he told Reagan that “it would be worth the president’s going along and let’s have the negotiation.” When his testimony appeared in the Union-Tribune, Allen quickly wrote a letter to the panel, this time not under oath, recanting the ransom story and claiming his memory had played tricks on him. His new version was that some POW activists had asked him about such an offer in a meeting that took place in 1986, when he was no longer in government. “It appears,” he said in the letter, “that there never was a 1981 meeting about the return of POW/MIAs for $4 billion.”

But the episode didn’t end there. A Treasury agent on Secret Service duty in the White House, John Syphrit, came forward to say he had overheard part of the ransom conversation in the Roosevelt Room in 1981, when the offer was discussed by Reagan, Bush, Casey, Allen, and other cabinet officials.

Syphrit, a veteran of the Vietnam War, told the committee he was willing to testify, but they would have to subpoena him. Treasury opposed his appearance, arguing that voluntary testimony would violate the trust between the Secret Service and those it protects. It was clear that coming in on his own could cost Syphrit his career. The committee voted 7 to 4 not to subpoena him.

In the committee’s final report, dated Jan. 13, 1993 (on page 284), the panel not only chastised Syphrit for his failure to testify without a subpoena (“The committee regrets that the Secret Service agent was unwilling ...”), but noted that since Allen had recanted his testimony about the Roosevelt Room briefing, Syphrit’s testimony would have been “at best, uncorroborated by the testimony of any other witness.” The committee omitted any mention that it had made a decision not to ask the other two surviving witnesses, Bush and Reagan, to give testimony under oath. (Casey had died.)

stay tuned....

Boys State Chairmen Report
In the words of our fathers, "a week the changes a lifetime". The boys in my words had a great time, and so did I. First, I want to thank Scott Thornton and Walt Chambers for showing me what Buckeye Boys State looks like from the commissioners view. Also on the same note I would like to thank the Buckeye Boys State Corporation, the American Legion Department of Ohio and Mr. Gerald "Jerry" White Director without you we would not have Buckeye Boys State. Although the estimated count was going to be 1100 boys and the official count was over 1160 boys that attended the program. From the fall and spring meetings it sounds like some posts do not sponsor boys anymore. It is now time to step up and take notice. Any squadron who wants to support and/or sponsor a boy(s), please contact me and we will be able to get you some information about the program. I would like to see more squadrons sponsor a boy for Boys State. I would like to report that some squadrons already have sponsored boys without their American Legion post. For this I commend you for this, please continue to sponsor a boy and maybe sponsor more. For the four days I was here I relived that some of the Legionaries are slowly fading away from the program. I want help a transition that will see the American Legion support fade and come back. For this I hope to bring more SAL Ohio members to Buckeye Boys State to help out. Mr. Walt Chambers has been here since 1979. For 31 years Walt has been coming here and continues to do so as a consultant , he will continue to be here for his son and hopefully be here for another 30 years. Walt, I thank you for your 31 years of service. To Scott, thank you for letting me shadow you around for Buckeye Boys State. I learned a lot and I continue to learn from you, to you Scott thank you. To Dave Young, thank you speaking to the Boys, in my eyes you make the effort to do this a great honor. Any Boys Stater recruited from BBS then the Application needs to have BBS as the recruiter. I want to see a number of Boys who join because of this program. Next year, I want the best for the program, so that means some fun for you continue watching the SALute and Bill Towns Email List(DOCBILL@neo.rr.com) and come to the DEC meetings for further updates on the program. Don't be afraid to contact me. There is no stupid questions.

Chris Robison
Boys State Chairmen
Detachment of Ohio
pilotandairport@gmail.com
crobiso2@kent.edu
Cell: 740-221-3870

Squadron No.62
Squadron No.62, Chillicothe, Ohio will holding a Reverse Raffle on Sept. 24,2010, with proceeds going to Canines For Combat Veterans, at Post 62, 53 W. Main Street, Chillicothe, Ohio, Upstairs. $20.00 Donation per ticket, only 200 will be sold. Grand Prize $1000.00, total payout of $1875.00. Ticket includes 2 beverages of choice, homemade dinner of baked steak, smash potatoes, southern green beans and roll, plus snacks. Many door prizes, tip boards, other raffles item and a non-winner drawing at 7;45pm. Doors open at 4PM, raffle starts at 5:30 pm-8 pm. CASH BAR available. Tickets available starting July 1st,2010. Multiple purchases allowed (to go boxes for dinner available) Contact Dain @ 740-772-1658 or dkdc@roadrunner.com

Zanesville
I would like to thank 2nd Vice Commander Gary Lang and Chaplin Jon Coakley from the Detachment of Ohio Sons of the American Legion for attending Tex Howe's Memorial Service on June 12th. A Special thank you to Jon Coakley for helping us out at the last moment. It was a wonderful service.

David L Dilts
Squadron 29
Zanesville, Ohio

SOUTHWAY POST 144
THE KITCHEN AT THE POST IS ONCE AGAIN OPEN
CAFÉ 144 SERVING FOOD FROM 5:30 PM UNTIL 8 PM TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY
FRIDAY AND SATURDAY 5:30 PM UNTIL 9 PM
STOP IN AND SEE RICKI FOR SOME GOOD FOOD
3253 South High Street
Columbus, Oh 43207
614-491-0915
www.southway144.org

Harrison Veterans Color Guard
https://www.charitymania.com/give/AZ030
Check out the above site for information on the Harrison Veterans Color Guard

Al Buxton

13TH DISTRICT SAL REVERSE RAFFLE
Saturday Sepember 25, 2010
American Legion Post 703
7667 York Rd
Parma Ohio
440-842-0703
Call Dist Commander Dale Anderson for tickets and information
440-554-8388

DOD Identifies Army Casualty
              The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
              Staff Sgt. James P. Hunter, 25, of South Amherst, Ohio, died June 18 in Kandahar, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.
              For more information, the media may contact the Fort Campbell Public Affairs Office at 270-798-3025.

               The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
                 Spc. Jacob P. Dohrenwend, 20, of Milford, Ohio, died June 21 at Balad, Iraq, of injuries sustained from a non-combat related incident. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan.
                 For more information, media may contact the Fort Riley public affairs office at 785-210-8867.

VHA needs to strengthen emergency preparedness at local level
        WASHINGTON (June 23, 2010) – While the Veterans Health Administration is well prepared at the national level to handle emergencies, it needs to improve its degree of preparedness at the local level, according to The American Legion.
        Barry Searle, director of the Legion’s veterans affairs and rehabilitation division, told a congressional subcommittee today that “there may be a lack of oversight and feedback concerning preparedness” at Dept. of Veterans Affairs regional offices and local facilities.
        Noting that VHA has a well-organized training framework for identifying duties and responsibilities during emergencies, Searle said The American Legion found no evidence of any feedback mechanism to confirm that such training was being implemented at regional and local facilities.
        “Disaster preparedness and response cannot be trained and implemented in a short period of time,” Searle told the House Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigation. He said greater emphasis should be placed on the reporting of exercises and training at the local level “to ensure a quick and effective response.”
        Last fall, The American Legion gave VHA high marks for its efforts in preparing for a possible pandemic of the H1N1 flu virus. Besides stockpiling vaccines, VHA adapted some of its vehicles used for veterans outreach counseling (equipped with satellite communications) to conduct medical relief operations.
        Searle recounted how VHA dispatched three mobile vet centers for use as triage clinics in Fargo, N.D., during the massive flooding last year. While the effort was commendable, American Legion field officers found out later that some directors of VA medical facilities were unaware that the “mobile clinics” even existed.
        “Such a valuable resource must be part of the ingrained knowledge of any facility director, or the value of these tools will be lost,” Searle told the committee.
        During its site visits, The American Legion also found a lack of awareness at many local VA facilities that they must also be prepared in emergencies to help civilians who are not veterans.
        While The American Legion believes VHA is succeeding in its emergency preparedness at the national level, Searle said that more follow-up and reporting on training activities at the local level “is essential to ensure that the central office policies actually reach the ground level.”

Marine Missing in Action From World War I Identified
The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing in action from World War I, have been identified and returned to his family for burial with full military honors.
U.S. Marine First Sergeant George H. Humphrey of Utica, N.Y., will be buried on Wednesday at Arlington National Cemetery. On Sept. 15, 1918, Humphrey participated in the first U.S.-led offensive of the war under the command of Gen. John J. Pershing. The battle with the Germans became known as the St. Mihiel Offensive. There were 7,000 Allied losses during this offensive and it was the first use of the American use of the term "D-Day" and the first use of tanks by American units.

Sydney Schanberg's exposé "McCain and the POW Cover-Up

One thing about the POW story is clear: if American prisoners were dishonored by being written off and left to die, that’s something the American public ought to know about.

10 Key Pieces of Evidence That Men Were Left Behind

7. As previously mentioned, in April 1993 in a Moscow archive, a researcher from Harvard, Stephen Morris, unearthed and made public the transcript of a briefing that General Tran Van Quang gave to the Hanoi politburo four months before the signing of the Paris peace accords in 1973.

In the transcript, General Quang told the Hanoi politburo that 1,205 U.S. prisoners were being held. Quang said that many of the prisoners would be held back from Washington after the accords as bargaining chips for war reparations. General Quang’s report added: “This is a big number. Officially, until now, we published a list of only 368 prisoners of war. The rest we have not revealed. The government of the USA knows this well, but it does not know the exact number ... and can only make guesses based on its losses. That is why we are keeping the number of prisoners of war secret, in accordance with the politburo’s instructions.” The report then went on to explain in clear and specific language that a large number would be kept back to ensure reparations.

The reaction to the document was immediate. After two decades of denying it had kept any prisoners, Hanoi responded to the revelation by calling the transcript a fabrication.

Similarly, Washington—which had over the same two decades refused to recant Nixon’s declaration that all the prisoners had been returned—also shifted into denial mode. The Pentagon issued a statement saying the document “is replete with errors, omissions and propaganda that seriously damage its credibility,” and that the numbers were “inconsistent with our own accounting.”

Neither American nor Vietnamese officials offered any rationale for who would plant a forged document in the Soviet archives and why they would do so. Certainly neither Washington nor Moscow—closely allied with Hanoi—would have any motive, since the contents were embarrassing to all parties, and since both the United States and Vietnam had consistently denied the existence of unreturned prisoners. The Russian archivists simply said the document was “authentic.”

8. In his 2002 book, Inside Delta Force, retired Command Sgt. Maj. Eric Haney described how in 1981 his special forces unit, after rigorous training for a POW rescue mission, had the mission suddenly aborted, revived a year later, and again abruptly aborted. Haney writes that this abandonment of captured soldiers ate at him for years and left him disillusioned about his government’s vows to leave no men behind. “Years later, I spoke at length with a former highly placed member of the North Vietnamese diplomatic corps, and this person asked me point-blank: ‘Why did the Americans never attempt to recover their remaining POWs after the conclusion of the war?’” Haney writes. He continued, saying that he came to believe senior government officials had called off those missions in 1981 and 1982. (His account is on pages 314 to 321 of my paperback copy of the book.)

stay tuned....

GIVE A GIFT IN HONOR OF DAD

Let him know how special he has been in your life. Honor him by making a donation in his name to The Child Welfare Foundation, The Endowment Fund, The Emergency Fund or other American Legion Family Program. Donate today

Commander Buchs

The Fourteenth District Meeting was held in Akron at the Viking Memorial Squadron 611 Sunday 06-13-10 . Thank you for the time that you gave me. I learn something every time when I visit your District. Your District membership is in 3rd place in the State and for that great job. You also have a new squadron which needs to say thanks for that as well. The meeting was very well done and the information was given out. Please keep up the good work .

Thank you Rex M. Buchs

VA & R

Gentlemen, I recently received the following letter from Kroger's - I was very surprised that only 37% have re-registered their card and signed on to our program. I hope enough of you can get registered quickly enough to keep Kroger from dropping us as a recipient of the Community Rewards Program.

Dear Kroger Community Rewards Coordinator:
    We urgently need your help so your organization can continue to earn funds through Kroger Community Rewards. We sent a letter in March reminding organizations that their members must re-enroll in Kroger Community Rewards in order to collect funds during the coming year. Unfortunately, only 37 percent of households enrolled in the program in 2009 have re-enrolled for 2010.
    As you may recall, $5 million is at stake through this program, with Kroger awarding $1,250,000 every quarter and participating organizations able to earn up to $50,000 every three months. Since we are already into the first quarter for 2010, your organization may already be missing out on funding that members could be earning.
Re-enrolling in Kroger Community Rewards is quick and easy.
    Ask members to visit www.krogercommunityrewards.com and click on Columbus and Enroll. While members must re-enroll every year, your organization does not need to sign up again; it is automatically enrolled for 2010.
    As you know, times are tough and Kroger is pleased to be able to help support local organizations through Kroger Community Rewards. The program allows members to earn funds for your group every time they present their Kroger Plus Card to purchase food and other items they use every day.
    Please do not let your Rewards expire during 2010. Contact your members and encourage them to RE-ENROLL in Kroger Community Rewards today!

Yours truly,
President
The Kroger Co., Columbus Division

Please do your part and pass along this message - we need to get the other 63% who signed on with us last year plus some. Thanks for your continued support. I thank you and the Veterans who receive the dogs thank you!

James M (Butch) Badgett VA & R Chairperson
123 Maple Street, Marietta OH 45750
740-373-6407/740-525-2653
dcc@suddenlink.net or k9sal@suddenlink.net

The American Legion presents: 4Troops and Michael Peterson
Monday, August 30th 7 p.m.

Milwaukee Theatre, 500 W. Kilbourn Ave.
Free to both convention attendees and the general public.
Cash reception and album sales in the Milwaukee Theatre foyer, 6 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Legion to President Obama: Restore Mojave cross
        INDIANAPOLIS (June 14, 2010) – A letter signed by The American Legion is asking President Barack Obama to restore the Mojave Desert Veterans Memorial cross.
        The letter, which also copied U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, was signed by National Commander Clarence Hill and also included signatures from the heads of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Military Order of the Purple Heart, and Liberty Institute and the veterans counsel for Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP.
        “It is time for the President to intervene and restore this tribute to our World War I veterans which stood as a testament to their sacrifice for over 75 years,” Hill said. “After its reaffirmation by the highest court in the land, its clandestine removal by thieves cries out for its immediate replacement.”
        This spring, the U.S. Supreme Court overruled lower federal courts’ decisions to tear down the memorial because of a misplaced belief that it was a religious icon on federal land. Soon after the ruling, the memorial was ripped down and carried away by vandals.
        “This act was abhorrent and constitutes a federal crime under the Veterans’ Memorial Preservation and Recognition Act of 2003. And it defies the rule of law, flouting a binding decision of the U.S. Supreme Court,” the letter states. “If Arlington National Cemetery were similarly desecrated, that desecration would be rectified immediately, and rightly so. Unfortunately, however, the National Park Service and the Department of Justice are refusing our request to replace the stolen memorial.”
        The letter goes on to state that the National Park Service hasn’t restored the memorial because it is complying with a lower court order, which in their interpretation, the Supreme Court decision did not fully address. Henry Sandoz, the caretaker of the memorial for the last 26 years, has built an exact replica of what was torn down and is ready to reinstall it.
        “This impasse is at a point where we now need your intervention as our nation’s leader, Mr. President, on decisive action to direct restoration of the memorial to its original form,” the letter reads. “It is in your power to direct the National Park Service and the Department of Justice to immediately restore the Memorial. And, on behalf of our nation’s veterans, we humbly ask you to do so, as Commander in Chief and as the sole officer constitutionally charged to take care that the laws are faithfully executed.”
        Anyone who wants to sign their name onto the letter can do so at http://www.putthecrossback.com/ .

State Veterans Benefits Directory Available
From Military.com
In addition to Federal veterans benefits, many veterans are also eligible for state veterans benefits. Ranging from educational grants, scholarships, and exemptions and discounts on taxes to home loans and veterans homes, state veterans benefits can be extremely valuable. Military.com has a 50-state breakdown of benefits offered to veterans in each state.
To view the State Veterans Benefits Directory, click here.

THE GREAT 1STDISTRICT 47thANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT
August 8th, 2010
Check-In 7:30 am • Opening Ceremony 8:00 am
White Pines Golf Course Swanton, Ohio
Whitehouse, American Legion Post 384
6910 PROVIDENCE STREET
WHITEHOUSE, OHIO 43571
(419) 877-5171

Sons hosting 2nd Annual Chicken Dinner
POLAND, OH – In conjunction with Celebrate Poland, Sons of The American Legion Mahoning Valley Squadron 15 in Poland, Ohio is holding its Second Annual Chicken Dinner on Friday, June 25, 2010 from 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The menu will feature one-half chicken, two sides, and bread. Take-out orders available. Beverages will also be available. The Dinner is catered by Carmelo’s Fire & Smoke of Poland.
Tickets are $8.00 may be purchased at the door or by calling (330) 757-8722.
Proceeds will benefit the various programs of Sons of The American Legion Mahoning Valley Squadron 15.
Anyone interested in joining American Legion Mahoning Valley Post 15, Inc., American Legion Auxiliary Mahoning Valley Unit 15, or Sons of The American Legion Mahoning Valley Squadron 15 is encouraged to stop by the Post Home where membership information will be
available.

Air Force MIAS from Vietnam War are Identified
             The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of four U.S. servicemen, missing in action from the Vietnam War, have been identified and returned to their families for burial with full military honors.
             They are Capt. Peter H. Chapman, II, Centerburg, Ohio; Tech. Sgt. Allen J. Avery, Auburn, Mass.; Tech. Sgt. Roy D. Prater, Tiffin, Ohio; and Sgt. James H. Alley, Plantation, Fla., all U.S. Air Force.
            Prater is to be buried in Columbia City, Ind., on June 19. Other burials are being scheduled individually by the families of the airmen.

WWII Pearl Harbor Sailor Identified
The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman missing in action from World War II has been identified and will be returned to his family for burial with full military honors.
He is U.S. Navy Fireman Third Class Gerald G. Lehman, of Hancock, Mich. He will be buried Saturday in Hancock.

Sydney Schanberg's exposé "McCain and the POW Cover-Up

One thing about the POW story is clear: if American prisoners were dishonored by being written off and left to die, that’s something the American public ought to know about.

10 Key Pieces of Evidence That Men Were Left Behind

5. A series of what appeared to be distress signals from Vietnam and Laos were captured by the government’s satellite system in the late 1980s and early ’90s. (Before that period, no search for such signals had been put in place.) Not a single one of these markings was ever deemed credible. To the layman’s eye, the satellite photos, some of which I’ve seen, show markings on the ground that are identical to the signals that American pilots had been specifically trained to use in their survival courses—such as certain letters, like X or K, drawn in a special way. Other markings were the secret four-digit authenticator numbers given to individual pilots. But time and again, the Pentagon, backed by the CIA, insisted that humans had not made these markings. What were they, then? “Shadows and vegetation,” the government said, insisting that the markings were merely normal topographical contours like saw-grass or rice-paddy divider walls. It was the automatic response—shadows and vegetation. On one occasion, a Pentagon photo expert refused to go along. It was a missing man’s name gouged into a field, he said, not trampled grass or paddy berms. His bosses responded by bringing in an outside contractor who found instead, yes, shadows and vegetation. This refrain led Bob Taylor, a highly regarded investigator on the Senate committee staff who had examined the photographic evidence, to comment to me: “If grass can spell out people’s names and secret digit codes, then I have a newfound respect for grass.”

6. On Nov. 11, 1992, Dolores Alfond, the sister of missing airman Capt. Victor Apodaca and chair of the National Alliance of Families, an organization of relatives of POW/MIAs, testified at one of the Senate committee’s public hearings. She asked for information about data the government had gathered from electronic devices used in a classified program known as PAVE SPIKE.

The devices were motion sensors, dropped by air, designed to pick up enemy troop movements. Shaped on one end like a spike with an electronic pod and antenna on top, they were designed to stick in the ground as they fell. Air Force planes would drop them along the Ho Chi Minh trail and other supply routes. The devices, though primarily sensors, also had rescue capabilities. Someone on the ground—a downed airman or a prisoner on a labor gang —could manually enter data into the sensor. All data were regularly collected electronically by U.S. planes flying overhead. Alfond stated, without any challenge or contradiction by the committee, that in 1974, a year after the supposedly complete return of prisoners, the gathered data showed that a person or people had manually entered into the sensors—as U.S. pilots had been trained to do—no less than 20 authenticator numbers that corresponded exactly to the classified authenticator numbers of 20 U.S. POWs who were lost in Laos. Alfond added, according to the transcript, “This PAVE SPIKE intelligence is seamless, but the committee has not discussed it or released what it knows about PAVE SPIKE.”

McCain attended that committee hearing specifically to confront Alfond because of her criticism of the panel’s work. He bellowed and berated her for quite a while. His face turning anger-pink, he accused her of “denigrating” his “patriotism.” The bullying had its effect—she began to cry.

After a pause Alfond recovered and tried to respond to his scorching tirade, but McCain simply turned away and stormed out of the room. The PAVE SPIKE file has never been declassified. We still don’t know anything about those 20 POWs.

STAY TUNED...

1st Vice Commander

I made a recent visit on Memorial Day weekend to the Western Reserve National Cemetery and was quite moved by what I saw there. It made me realize even more that we need to support our Veterans of this nation and remember what they have done. It is also a very good reason to support the American Legion Family and all of the programs that are included.
      As the new 1st Vice I want to remind you to make sure officer certifications are sent in by now. You need to finish up on membership for the 2010 year with a bang and get all old cards mailed in to receive your new 2011 cards. Let's get Ohio on the fast track for the new year and make Commander Rex's year successfull. We need all to work hard to keep The Detachment of Ohio in the front in this nation to gain recognition for all of our members.
     We as officers are here to help out in any way we can. You just have to contact us and we will set out to do what is necessary to make your year great. Communication is the key to success so let's communicate ! It takes a small amount of time to reach out and get a hold of me for visitations, etc. I will be glad to come to your Squadron or District events just let me know when and where.
     If you would like to come to my neck of the woods, the First District is having a Golf Scramble on June 19th and the guys would like to see as many friendly faces as possible. Check with me or one of the First District Officers to get more info.

For God and Country,
Steve Honigfort
SAL Detachment of Ohio
1st Vice Commander
E-mail: shonigfort@yahoo.com

2ND VICE COMMANDER
CONGRATULATIONS TO REX,STEVE, AND JOHN ON THEIR NEW OFFICES IN THE DETACHMENT OF OHIO. I LOOK FORWARD TO WORKING WITH THEM ON VARIOUS PROJECTS THRU OUT THE YEAR. I WANT TO THANK EVERY BODY THAT TRUSTED IN ME FOR THE HIGH OFFICE OF 2ND VICE COMMANDER. I WILL DO THE BEST JOB THAT I CAN FOR THE STATE OF OHIO. NOW TO GET DOWN TO BUSINESS

AS MOST OF YOU KNOW MY PROJECT FOR THE YEAR IS TO RAFFLE OFF A 2011 HARLEY FAT BOY. MY TICKETS HAVE ALREADY BEEN GIVEN OUT TO MOST SQUADRONS IN THE STATE. IF YOU HAVE NOT RECEIVED ANY YET FOR YOUR SQUADRON LET ME KNOW AND I WILL GET THEM TO YOU.
MY PHONE IS 740-749-3263 OR EMAIL ME AT glang3263@roadrunner.com
TICKETS ARE $5.00 EACH OR 5 FOR $20.00 PLUS THERE ARE 10 WINNERS OF $200.00. THE DRAWING WILL BE HELD AT THE 2011 CONVENTION IN INDEPENDENCE ON MAY 15, 2011.
ALL PROCEEDS WILL GO TO CWF AND CANINES FOR COMBAT VETERANS THIS SHOULD BE A GOOD FUND RAISER FOR THE DETACHMENT SO LETS TRY TO SELL AS MANY AS WE CAN.
I HOPE YOU ALL HAVE A GREAT SUMMER. AND I HOPE TO GET TO VISIT YOU THIS SUMMER.

       FOR GOD AND COUNTRY
       GARY LANG
       2ND VICE COMMANDER
       DETACHMENT OF OHIO

DETACHMENT ADJUTANT'S NOTES -- NORTHWEST OHIO TORNADOES FINANCIAL HELP

Governor Ted Strickland has declared Fulton, Wood and Ottawa Counties as disaster areas because of the tornadoes on the weekend of June 5-6.

A paid-up 2010 Legionnaire or SAL member displaced from their home is eligible to apply to the American Legion National Emergency Fund for assistance up to $1,500.

The NEF does not pay insurance deductibles and many other items. It does pay for temporary assistance when a Legionnaire/SAL member is out of pocket for living expenses when unable to inhabit their home.

Please contact Mike Wiswell at Department Headquarters for the NEF application.

For God and Country,
Scott J. Thornton
Detachment Adjutant, Ohio
Sons of The American Legion

VA& R

1. Thank You for all you?ve done so far for Canines for Combat Vets. Don?t forget it?s all for the Vets.
2. Shirts, pins and marbles always available.
3. Call for speaker/item sales for your event.
4. Be sure your Kroger card has been reactivated ? talk with all your co-workers and friends about helping out the cause by registering their Kroger card for us.
5. Do something for a Veteran this week and every week (how about a random act of kindness geared toward a Vet).

Sincerely
James (Butch) Badgett
VA& R Chairperson
740-373-6407/740-525-2653
dcc@suddenlink.net

Documentary on The American Legion Now Available
Portion of proceeds will benefit Legion programs

        INDIANAPOLIS (June 9, 2010) – A new documentary detailing the 91-year history of The American Legion has just been released and is currently available through the organization’s Web site and Flag & Emblem Sales division.
“History of The American Legion: A National Legacy” was produced by Blackhorse Productions, a California-based company that specializes in military documentaries. Narrated by actor Neal McDonough (Band of Brothers), the movie traces the World War I roots of The American Legion and follows its history from its founding through its support for the military during the Global War on Terrorism.
        “The American Legion has been the leading voice for veterans and the military since 1919,” National Commander Clarence E. Hill said. “While many people know that The American Legion played a pivotal role in the creation of the GI Bill, they don’t necessarily know the fascinating history behind it. From the elevation of the VA to cabinet-status to the administration of some of the most successful youth programs in the country, The American Legion has too many noteworthy accomplishments for me to mention here. I am pleased that we now have a DVD that brings the illustrious history of The American Legion to life. This would make a great gift for any Legionnaire and a great educational tool for the general public.”
The National Executive Committee passed Resolution 6 during its October 2008 meetings, which authorized The American Legion to cooperate with Blackhorse Productions in the creation of the documentary. The project was completed at no cost to The American Legion, with a portion of the sales proceeds being allocated to The American Legion Legacy Scholarship Fund, Child Welfare Foundation and National Emergency Fund.
“Preserving history and teaching viewers about the contributions and sacrifices made by our veterans is a passion for Blackhorse Productions,” said Jason Heit, Executive Producer and CEO. “We were extremely excited to not just tell the great story of The American Legion, but to include the American Legion Auxiliary, Sons of the American Legion and the American Legion Riders.”
The DVDs cost $19.95 each and are available online at www.emblem.legion.org or by calling 1-888-453-4466. The stock number is 755.906.
        With a current membership of 2.5-million wartime veterans, The American Legion was founded on the four pillars of a strong national security, veterans affairs, Americanism, and the mentoring of youth. Legionnaires work for the betterment of their communities through more than 14,000 posts across the nation.

Celebrate Flag Day on June 14
Show your pride for God and country by flying Old Glory! Since 1949, when President Truman signed an Act of Congress designating June 14 of each year as National Flag Day, Americans have honored servicemembers past and present with this expression of gratitude and remembrance. To see a Q&A on flying the American flag, click here

DISTRICT 14 SAL MEETING

Sunday June 13 at 2:00

Post 611

657 N. Howard St. Akron, 44310

ALL YOU CAN EAT BREAKFAST BUFFET
YEAGER-BENSON MEMORIAL POST 199
10700 CAMPBELL RD. HARRISON, OH. 45030

TAKE DAD OUT FOR BREAKFAST JUNE 20, 2010 8:00 A.M. till 1:00 P.M.
FULL BUFFET – EGGS, BACON, SAUSAGE, BISCUITS, GRAVY, PANCAKES AND MORE
$6.00 PER ADULT 12 YEARS OLD AND UNDER $4.00
Raffle Table -- Split The Pot
FOR MORE INFO: 708-1969 or 367-9180

State forfeits $525,000 for veterans
Ohio officials failed to staff program sufficiently to get federal funding. For the complete story

By James Nash
THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH

Special Olympics Ohio at the Cleveland Indians v. New York Yankees Game
Join us for the game on July 28th as Cleveland takes on the New York Yankees and every fan in the stand earns money for Special Olympics Ohio. Let's "Fill the House" with Special Olympic's fans, family, and athletes. Call our Cleveland Office for tickets at or (440) 582-8433 or click here for additional ticket information.

Airmen Missing From Vietnam War Identified
                 The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office announced today that the remains of nine U.S. servicemen, missing in action from the Vietnam War, have been accounted-for and returned to their families for burial with full military honors.
                 Air Force Col. William H. Mason, Camden, Ark.; Lt. Col. Jerry L. Chambers, Muskogee, Okla.; Maj. William T. McPhail, Chattanooga, Tenn.; Maj. Thomas B. Mitchell, Littleton, Colo.; Chief Master Sgt. John Q. Adam, Bethel, Kan.; Chief Master Sgt. Calvin C. Glover, Steubenville, Ohio; Chief Master Sgt. Thomas E. Knebel, Midway, Ark.; Chief Master Sgt. Melvin D. Rash, Yorktown, Va.; and Master Sgt. Gary Pate, Brooks, Ga., were buried as a group today in Arlington National Cemetery. The individually identified remains of each airman were previously returned to their families for burial.
                 On May 22, 1968, these men were aboard a C-130A Hercules on an evening flare mission over northern Salavan Province, Laos. Fifteen minutes after the aircraft made a radio call, the crew of another U.S. aircraft observed a large ground fire near the last known location of Mason's aircraft. Search and rescue attempts were not initiated due to heavy antiaircraft fire in the area.

Soldier Missing From Korean War Identified
            The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing in action from the Korean War, have been identified and returned to his family for burial with full military honors.
          Army Master Sgt. Roy E. Head of Clinchport, Va., will be buried Saturday in Duffield, Va. Head was assigned to Headquarters Company, 49th Field Artillery Battalion. After the 1953 armistice, it was learned from surviving POWs that he had been captured in February 1951, marched north to a POW camp in Suan County, North Korea, and died of malnutrition a few months later. Between 1991 and 1994, North Korea gave the United States 208 boxes of remains believed to contain the remains of 200-400 U.S. servicemen. North Korean documents turned over with one of the boxes indicated the remains were exhumed near Suan County. This location correlates with Head's last known location.
                      More than 2,000 servicemen died as prisoners of war during the Korean War. With this accounting, 8,025 service members still remain missing from the conflict.

Sydney Schanberg's exposé "McCain and the POW Cover-Up
One thing about the POW story is clear: if American prisoners were dishonored by being written off and left to die, that’s something the American public ought to know about.

10 Key Pieces of Evidence That Men Were Left Behind

3. Over the years, the DIA received more than 1,600 first-hand sightings of live American prisoners and nearly 14,000 second-hand reports. Many witnesses interrogated by CIA or Pentagon intelligence agents were deemed “credible” in the agents’ reports. Some of the witnesses were given lie-detector tests and passed. Sources provided me with copies of these witness reports, which are impressive in their detail. A lot of the sightings described a secondary tier of prison camps many miles from Hanoi. Yet the DIA, after reviewing all these reports, concluded that they “do not constitute evidence” that men were alive.
4. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, listening stations picked up messages in which Laotian military personnel spoke about moving American prisoners from one labor camp to another. These listening posts were manned by Thai communications officers trained by the National Security Agency (NSA), which monitors signals worldwide. The NSA teams had moved out after the fall of Saigon in 1975 and passed the job to the Thai allies. But when the Thais turned these messages over to Washington, the intelligence community ruled that since the intercepts were made by a “third party”—namely Thailand—they could not be regarded as authentic. That’s some Catch-22: the U.S. trained a third party to take over its role in monitoring signals about POWs, but because that third party did the monitoring, the messages weren’t valid.
Here, from CIA files, is an example that clearly exposes the farce. On Dec. 27, 1980, a Thai military signal team picked up a message saying that prisoners were being moved out of Attopeu (in southern Laos) by aircraft “at 1230 hours.” Three days later a message was sent from the CIA station in Bangkok to the CIA director’s office in Langley. It read, in part: “The prisoners ... are now in the valley in permanent location (a prison camp at Nhommarath in Central Laos). They were transferred from Attopeu to work in various places ... POWs were formerly kept in caves and are very thin, dark and starving.” Apparently the prisoners were real. But the transmission was declared “invalid” by Washington because the information came from a “third party” and thus could not be deemed credible.

DVD of Detachment Convention Videos

I have a DVD of the convention videos and thought others might like one. Most of the videos can be seen on the Squardon website(sal389oh.org) but some were too long to put on there. The DVD contains them - Guest Speaker, Nat. Cmdr. Arneson's Remarks, Cmdr.'s Report.

Anyone who wants a copy send me your snail mail address and I'll send you one. I am asking $10.00 each for a copy to cover costs. Any extra money collected above cost will be donated to CANINES FOR COMBAT VETS. Costs are: blank DVDs, Mailing costs.

Email with info at generaljoe@adelphia.net

Snail mail: Joe Heiss

PO Box 664

Beverly, Ohio 45715

The American Legion Legacy Scholarship Fund competes again for $250K Pepsi Refresh Everything grant Votes Needed!
INDIANAPOLIS (June 2, 2010) – For the second consecutive month, The American Legion Legacy Scholarship Fund is competing for a $250,000 grant to be awarded by the Pepsi Beverage Company as part of its Refresh Everything Project.
While Pepsi did not announce just where the Legacy Scholarship Fund finished in its May voting competition, the top two charities win the grants and the remaining top 100 are “rolled over” to participate in the following month’s competition. During the evening of May 31, The Legacy Scholarship was ranked 49th of 1,341 participating charities.
The American Legion’s Operation Comfort Warriors finished in first place during February’s voting and has already been awarded the top grant of $250,000.
“While I am disappointed that The American Legion Legacy Scholarship Fund did not win a grant, I am not surprised that we apparently finished in the top tier,” said The American Legion National Commander Clarence E. Hill. “If The American Legion family and all of our friends support this great cause, we can do better in June. Operation Comfort Warriors finished first in February. This is not about the same organization winning twice. It’s about assisting an entirely different group of deserving people, those whose parents paid the ultimate price and sacrificed their lives while serving in our military during the War on Terrorism. The American Legion Legacy Scholarship Fund ensures that the children of these fallen heroes will be able to attend college and not have to worry about the rising cost of higher education. We can support the children of these heroes simply by voting every day throughout the month of June. The process will cost you nothing, but the reward can truly make a difference.”
Visitors can cast their votes at www.refresheverything.com/theamericanlegionlegacyscholarship or by clicking on the “Vote Daily” Pepsi panel at www.legion.org .
Hill also recommended that Legionnaires, Legion family members, friends and supporters of The American Legion spread the message to vote for The American Legion Legacy Scholarship Fund.
“Individual voting alone will not win this competition,” Hill said. “We need people to post it on their web sites, Facebook and Twitter accounts. They should use all social media methods at their disposal. Operation Comfort Warriors was able to win because American Legion posts, Auxiliary units, Sons of the American Legion squadrons and American Legion Riders chapters all came together and worked toward a common goal. Spreading the word in newsletters and the mainstream media can also help us replicate our earlier success.”
With a current membership of 2.5-million wartime veterans, The American Legion was founded in 1919 on the four pillars of a strong national security, veterans affairs, Americanism, and youth programs. Legionnaires work for the betterment of their communities through more than 14,000 posts across the nation.

Support The American Legion Legacy Fund!
Go to Pepsi refresh and vote every day @ each email address you have.
Voting ends June 30.
Skip

Legion Riders

Frank "The Old One" Pine - reportedly the oldest licensed motorcyclist in the country - has joined American Legion Riders Chapter at Post 2, W. Warwick, RI. At 96, he is co-founding member of the Viking Riders, member of the Star Riders, Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association (CVMA) and RI Patriot Guard Riders.
He's still riding at 96 having recently participated in Echo Taps Worldwide with both the CVMA and ALR on 15 MAY 2010.

SAL 1st DISTRICT
EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING
TUESDAY, JULY 20, 2010 @ 7:30 PM
Joseph W. Diehn Post 468
5580 Centennial Rd.
Sylvania, OH 43560-9609
Squadron Commanders and Vice Commanders are welcome!

THE GREAT FIRST DISTRICT SONS OF THE AMERICAN LEGION
proudly presents The 10th Annual SAL First District Golf Outing

4-MAN SCRAMBLE SATURDAY, JUNE 19, 2010
Shotgun Start @ 10:30 AM
ST. MIKE’S GOLF CLUB
26298 Mekus Rd.
Defiance, OH 43512-9140
(419) 497-4675

5th SAL District

I hope this email find you well and supportive of your Post. Most of the 5th SAL District Officers are available to do your installation, unless it has been done.
Please let us know in advance so we are able to assemble the team.

Bernie Kessler
1st Vice Commander
Fighting Fifth District

Squadron 29

Memorial Service for our late Adjutant, Tex Howe who passed away about a year ago. The Memorial Service will be held at Williams Cemetary in Zanesville, Ohio on June 12th at 2:00 p.m. If anyone is interested in attending, please contact David Dilts at 740-319-1255 or Mike Sagle at 740-607-8108 for directions.

David L Dilts
Squadron 29

District 14

Please accept my invitation to attend District 14's next meeting on June 13th @ 2PM to be held at Post 611, in Akron, Ohio.

Ken Millick

SUMMIT COUNTY STAND DOWN FOR HOMELESS VETERANS COMMITTEE

Monday June 7th, 2pm, Firestone VFW Post 3383, 690 W Waterloo Rd. Akron

Hope to see you there

Laura Williams Dunlop, Chair

THE GREAT 1ST DISTRICT 47th ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT
August 8th, 2010
Check-In 7:30 am • Opening Ceremony 8:00 am
Scramble • Shotgun Format • 18 Holes with Lunch • Raffle • Prizes
White Pines Golf Course Swanton, Ohio
Whitehouse Post 384
6910 PROVIDENCE STREET
WHITEHOUSE, OHIO 43571
(419) 877-5171

Museums Offer Free Admission to Military Families
May 25, 2010 American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, May 24, 2010 - Active duty servicemembers and their families will gain free access to hundreds of museums throughout the nation this summer, thanks to a partnership between the National Endowment for the Arts and Blue Star Families.
More than 600 museums in 50 states and the District of Columbia have signed up so far to participate in Operation Appreciation: Blue Star Museums. The program offers active duty servicemembers -- including activated Guard and Reserve -- and up to five of their immediate family members free admission to participating museums from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
"The Blue Star Museums initiative is a tangible expression of appreciation to servicemembers and their families," said Barbara Thompson, director of the Pentagon's office of family policy, children and youth. "It warms our hearts to see how other federal agencies and local communities can think creatively to recognize their sacrifice and contribution to the nation."
People can visit http://www.arts.gov/national/bluestarmuseums/index.php for a complete list of participating museums, which run the gamut from children's and fine arts to history and science museums. Participating museums include the Art Institute of Chicago, Dallas Museum of Art, Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Please Touch Museum in Philadelphia, Museum of Modern Art and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, and all of New Mexico's 14 state-run museums and historic monuments.

Air Force Pilot Missing From Vietnam War Identified
The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing in action from the Vietnam War, have been identified and returned to his family for burial with full military honors.
Air Force Col. Elton L. Perrine of Pittsford, N.Y., was buried last week at Arlington National Cemetery near Washington, D.C. On May 22, 1967, Perrine and Capt. Kenneth F. Backus completed a nighttime strike against the Cao Nung Railroad Yard near the town of Kep in North Vietnam. Seconds after the bomb run, a nearby aircrew reported seeing an isolated explosion approximately three miles east of the target, thought to be Perrine's F-4C Phantom aircraft crashing. Search and rescue attempts were not initiated due to heavy anti-aircraft fire in the area.

DOD Announces Ohio and Washington National Guard HRFs
                The National Guard Bureau, on behalf of Department of Defense (DoD) and in collaboration with the states, has selected Ohio and Washington as the first two states to host a homeland response force (HRF), which will be comprised of National Guard soldiers and airmen and established no later than the end of fiscal 2011.
                The creation of the HRFs is a part of DoD's larger reorganization of its chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and high yield explosive (CBRNE) consequence management enterprise, initiated during the 2010 Quadrennial Defense Review. This reorganization will ensure DoD has a robust ability to respond rapidly to domestic CBRNE incidents while recognizing the primary role that the governors play in controlling the response to incidents that occur in their states.
                Department of Defense plans to establish a total of 10 homeland response force (HRF) units nation-wide, with one HRF in each of the ten federal emergency management agency (EMA) regions. HRFs will provide a regional response capability of approximately 570 personnel composed of CBRNE specialists, command and control and security forces. HRFs will self-deploy by ground within six to 12 hours of an event, bringing life-saving medical, search and extraction, decontamination, security, and command and control capabilities- this represents a dramatic improvement in response time and life-saving capability to the previous construct.
                Coincident with the creation of the Ohio and Washington HRFs, the department will create two new (CBRNE) enhanced response force packages (CERFPs) in Indiana and Alabama to replace the Ohio and Washington CERFPs that will evolve into HRFs. CERFPs are composed of existing National Guard units that are trained to respond to a weapon of mass destruction incident. The CERFP capabilities include: locate and extract victims from a contaminated environment, perform mass patient/casualty decontamination, and provide medical treatment as necessary to stabilize patients for evacuation.
                The National Guard Bureau is currently analyzing and staffing the selection for the remaining eight HRFs and potential backfill CERFP states. Further information will be released as it becomes available.

Sydney Schanberg's exposé "McCain and the POW Cover-Up

One thing about the POW story is clear: if American prisoners were dishonored by being written off and left to die, that’s something the American public ought to know about.

10 Key Pieces of Evidence That Men Were Left Behind

2. Two Defense secretaries who served during the Vietnam War testified to the Senate POW committee in September 1992 that prisoners were not returned. James Schlesinger and Melvin Laird, both speaking at a public session and under oath, said they based their conclusions on strong intelligence data—letters, eyewitness reports, even direct radio contacts. Under questioning, Schlesinger chose his words carefully, understanding clearly the volatility of the issue: “I think that as of now that I can come to no other conclusion ... some were left behind.” This ran counter to what President Nixon told the public in a nationally televised speech on March 29, 1973, when the repatriation of the 591 was in motion: “Tonight,” Nixon said, “the day we have all worked and prayed for has finally come. For the first time in 12 years, no American military forces are in Vietnam. All our American POWs are on their way home.” Documents unearthed since then show that aides had already briefed Nixon about the contrary evidence.

Schlesinger was asked by the Senate committee for his explanation of why President Nixon would have made such a statement when he knew Hanoi was still holding prisoners. He replied, “One must assume that we had concluded that the bargaining position of the United States ... was quite weak. We were anxious to get our troops out and we were not going to roil the waters...” This testimony struck me as a bombshell. The New York Times appropriately reported it on page one but again there was no sustained follow-up by the Times or any other major paper or national news outlet.

...stay tuned...

BEVERLY , OHIO –

Robert Burns Pennock, 85, of Beverly died Thursday (May 27, 2010) at Marietta Memorial Hospital.
He was born July 15, 1924, to Harry and Marie Burns Pennock and lived in the Beverly area his entire life.
Bob graduated from Beverly High School in 1942 and married Mildred Arlene Wagner on April 17, 1949. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army Infantry during World War II. He was a member of the 311th Regiment, Company M, 778th Lightning Division, receiving an Expert Rifle Badge, two Battle Stars for his service in Rhineland and Central Europe, a Good Conduct Medal and the distinguished Bronze Star Medal.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Arlene; children, Cheryl (Bill) Baxter of Parkersburg, Bobby (Mary Ann) Pennock of Beverly and Pamela (Mark) Jackson of Beverly; grandchildren, Carrie (Brent) Smith, Jared (Angie) Evans, Rudy (Ashleigh) Pennock, Roxanne (Alex Heiss) Pennock, Megan and Taylor Pennock; step-grandchildren, Bill (Linda) Baxter II, Todd (Buffy) Baxter and Jess Jackson; great-grandchildren, Jacob Smith, Madison, Rylee and Jackson Evans, Finnley and Evie Pennock; step-great-grandchildren, Brandon, Devin and Bailey Baxter and Ashlyn Jackson; sister, the Rev. Helen Lewis of Caldwell; many nieces and nephews; and grand-dogs, Abby and Harley. He is preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Russell, Francis, and Dean Pennock.
In 1952, Bob and his brothers began Pennock Brothers Construction Inc., focusing on housing and commercial development in Beverly and throughout southeastern Ohio. He retired in 1982.
Bob was a life member of American Legion Post 389, Beverly, serving as commander in 1967 and 1968 and department sergeant at arms in 1977 and 1978. He managed the American Legion Post 389 Baseball Team for several years in the 1960s. He also was a life member of VFW Post 4713 in Malta, a 50-year member of Center Township Grange, Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 3665 and Smith Chapel United Methodist Church in Hackney.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday (May 30) at McCurdy Funeral Home in Beverly, with Pastor Jeff Corbett officiating.

Visitation will be 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home. Military graveside services will be conducted at Beverly Cemetery by Russell Chadwick American Legion Post 389.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Legion Post 389/750 baseball program c/o American Legion Post 389, P.O. Box 155, Beverly, Ohio 45715

This Memorial Day...
...as you fire up the grill, go poolside or cheer on your favorite Indianapolis 500 racecar driver, remember the true reason for the holiday. The American Legion Auxiliary salutes all of America's heroes, past and present.

Wherever You Are at 3pm on Memorial Day, Pause for National Moment of Remembrance
Established by Congress, the National Moment of Remembrance asks Americans to pause in an act of national unity (duration: one minute) at 3pm local time on Memorial Day. The time 3pm was chosen because it is when most Americans are enjoying their freedoms on the national holiday. The Moment does not replace traditional Memorial Day events; rather, it is an act of national unity in which all Americans, alone or with family and friends, honor those who died for our freedom. It will help to reclaim Memorial Day as the sacred and noble holiday it was meant to be. In this shared remembrance, we connect as Americans.

RESERVED

This space has been reserved each week for Detachment / Department Officers and Chairman which want to spread the word about their programs.

Send your information to DOCBILL@NEO.RR.COM

Detachment Commander

I would like to take this time and say Thank You . I am so proud of being with the greatest organization in our country. What a honor for me as well as for my officers to be swear in by our National Commander. This is something that I will never forget. I would like to say Thank you to my wife Diane and my Mother and my Family for being there for me. I did miss my Son AAron and my Daughter Rachel . They are both in the Navy . One is in Hawaii and there other is in Japan. I also miss Lynne and Heather my two great step daughter. There are no words to explain what a great feeling I have being your Detachment Commander. Thank you for your support and I will do the best job that I can. I do believe that I am only as good as the people that I work with. Please support are raffles and again membership. Please say a pray for our Troops and there Families. God Bless our Country. Rex M. Buchs

Canines For Combat Vets
Thank you for everything you have done to make this a very good year for Canines For Combat Vets. Those of you who read last week?s news or were at Detachment Convention know that we have now raised enough money to purchase two plus dogs. Way to go. A big thank you to Squadron 8 who raised $10,000 of the money.

Be sure to re-register your Kroger card. Just this week I received notification that we will soon be receiving another check for the 4th quarter which ended April 30. This check will be for $1235.00. This is probably the very easiest money maker that we have going. Just register your card and select SONS OF THE AMERICAN LEGION OF OHIO VA & R as the recipient of your Community Rewards and the program receives a check every three months.

I am now working with our National VA & R Chairperson Bruno Williamson. The Ohio Sons of The American Legion have made a challenge to all Detachments in the country. The challenge is that they come up with money for one dog or for at least part of a dog. Just imagine the possibilities - 50 dogs.

I am asking for your continued support of this program as we work towards our third dog for Ohio Veterans. Look at what we accomplished this past year.

James M. ?Butch? Badgett
Detachment of Ohio VA&R Chairman
740-373-6407/740-525-2653
dcc@suddenlink.net

CWF

Today I mailed a check for $44,474.82 to the national Child Welfare Foundation.

With our previous donations, it brings us to $68,614.57 for the year (excluding monies mailed separately by individual members and the sale of challenge coins etc.)

Have a great weekend. Hilary and I are leaving this afternoon for Toronto and will be back to work on Wednesday June 2nd.

Mike

By JULIE WATSON, Associated Press Writer Julie Watson, Associated Press Writer

SAN DIEGO – Retired Navy Lt. John Finn, the oldest Medal of Honor recipient from World War II, died Thursday at his Southern California ranch. He was 100.
Finn enlisted in the Navy just before his 17th birthday and went on to become the first man to receive the nation's highest military award for heroism during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941, according to a Navy statement.
He was the oldest of 97 Medal of Honor recipients still living.
Despite head wounds and other injuries, Finn, the chief of ordnance for an air squadron, continuously fired a .50-caliber machine gun from an exposed position as bullets and bombs pounded the Naval Air Station at Kaneohe Bay in Oahu. He then supervised the rearming of returning American planes.
"Here they're paying you for doing your duty, and that's what I did," Finn told The Associated Press before his 100th birthday. "I never intended to be a hero. But on Dec. 7, by God, we're in a war."
Finn received the Medal of Honor on Sept. 15, 1942, from then-President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
He later served as a limited duty officer specializing in anti-aircraft guns in San Diego, Hawaii, Washington, Panama and aboard aircraft carriers, the Navy said.
He retired in 1956 after three decades of service, but he continued to help young sailors and stayed active in Navy organizations, Lt. Aaron Kakiel said.
"He's been a real inspiration to a number of our aviation ordnance men and an example for the entire Navy," he said.
Born July 23, 1909, in Los Angeles, Finn lived for 50 years on his ranch near Live Oak Springs, outside San Diego.
He will be buried with full military honors. Kakiel said the Navy was still working with his family members on the details.

RIDERS

See you all in Washington DC this weekend! Like many of you I'm taking personal leave to attend Rolling Thunder/Ride to the Wall, and I'm riding in with a group from Illinois and Indiana.
See you in the Pentagon parking lot. I'll be the one on a motorcycle (I'll wear a leather vest or something so you can recognize me).

"AWACS"

Wounded Warrior program

http://www.ohio.com/news/94803679.html

Above link is to the Wounded Warrior program. It is amazing. I have the priviledge of knowing one its very active members. If anyone knows a warrior that can benefit from this program, please pass on information.

Good project for Memorial Day, don't cha think?

For God and Country,

Michele

STAND DOWN

IF YOUR POST HAS VOTED TO DONATE MONEY TO THE STAND DOWN WE ARE ASKING THAT YOU PLEASE SEND IT NOW. MOST OF THE ITEMS GIVEN OUT HAVE TO BE ORDERED WELL IN ADVANCE. ALSO, DON'T FORGET THAT YOU CAN USE YOUR CHARITY ACCOUNT FUNDS FOR THIS PURPOSE.

PLEASE MAKE THE CHECKS PAYABLE TO FEDERATED WHOLESALE AND SEND THEM TO ME AT:

DALE LUZADER 222 WOOSTER st. LODI , OHIO 44254

THANK YOU

DALE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The American Legion and Military Channel launch “American Heroes” vignettes honoring those who served in Iraq, Afghanistan

The “American Heroes” Vignettes Premiere During Military Channel’s Live Coverage of the National Memorial Day Parade on May 31st

Indianapolis and Silver Spring, Md. (May 26, 2010) – The American Legion and Military Channel have teamed up to honor troops who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, including three soldiers who never made it back home. A series of ten, one-minute vignettes, “American Heroes” premieres Memorial Day on the Military Channel, which co-sponsored the production with The American Legion – the country’s largest veterans service organization with about 2.5 million members worldwide.

Produced by Creative Street Entertainment, “American Heroes” includes the dramatic and poignant stories of those who fell in battle, suffered severe injuries, helped repair war-torn communities, or made it home to help other wounded warriors. Each American hero is honored with a Norman Rockwell Moments portrait at the close of the vignette. The profiles will air on the Military Channel for an entire year, starting with the network’s live coverage of the National Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 31 from 2 to 4 p.m. EST.

“The ‘American Heroes’ stories are a collection that encompasses several different aspects of what it means to be a hero in wartime. First and foremost, we think of those who gave their lives – those whose memories we will honor forever,” said Clarence Hill, national commander for The American Legion.

“Then there are those who return home with severe injuries, yet go on to succeed in the civilian world. We have American heroes who take care of wounded troops at VA hospitals, who have helped Iraqi children in their devastated cities, or who have taught their own families how to be heroes,” Hill said. These vignettes really highlight the sacrifices of our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, and how veterans of those wars continue to serve our country.”

“Partnering with The American Legion to create these ‘American Heroes’ vignettes is emblematic of Military Channel’s commitment to sharing compelling stories of heroism from within the U.S. Armed Services,” said Henry Schleiff, general manager and president of Military Channel, Investigation Discovery and HD Theater. “And what better day to launch these poignant stories than Memorial Day, a hallowed day for our country to recognize the accomplishments and sacrifices of the men and women serving in uniform, who have preserved our freedom and liberties while bringing security to the world.”

The 11 individuals featured in the “American Heroes” vignettes are: Patrick Brady and his daughter, Meghan; David Brown, Tammy Duckworth, Dawn Halfaker, Nick Madaras, Jose Pequeno, Robert Posivio, Joseph Proctor, John Schatzel and Klay South.

Madaras, Posivio and Proctor died in Iraq; Proctor received the Silver Star. Duckworth, an assistant secretary in the Dept. of Veterans Affairs, was a pilot who lost both legs when her helicopter was shot down. Halfaker, vice president of the Wounded Warrior Project, lost an arm when an RPG exploded near her Humvee.

South, who founded the Veterans of Valor service organization, was shot while clearing out houses in Fallujah. Pequeno, whose story was told in the May 2009 issue of The American Legion Magazine, suffered severe traumatic brain injury from an IED explosion.

Patrick Brady, a retired Army major general, is a Medal of Honor recipient for bravery in Vietnam; his daughter, Meghan, has served in Kosovo, Kuwait and Iraq. Schatzel helped to rebuild the Iraqi scouting program in Baghdad, and Brown – twice-injured in battle – now spends his days helping veterans recover from war and readjust to the world of peace.

Sydney Schanberg's exposé "McCain and the POW Cover-Up

One thing about the POW story is clear: if American prisoners were dishonored by being written off and left to die, that’s something the American public ought to know about.

10 Key Pieces of Evidence That Men Were Left Behind

1. In Paris, where the Vietnam peace treaty was negotiated, the United States asked Hanoi for the list of American prisoners to be returned, fearing that Hanoi would hold some prisoners back. The North Vietnamese refused, saying they would produce the list only after the treaty was signed. Nixon agreed with Kissinger that they had no leverage left, and Kissinger signed the accord on Jan. 27, 1973 without the prisoner list. When Hanoi produced its list of 591 prisoners the next day, U.S. intelligence agencies expressed shock at the low number. Their number was hundreds higher. The New York Times published a long, page-one story on Feb. 2, 1973 about the discrepancy, especially raising questions about the number of prisoners held in Laos, only nine of whom were being returned. The headline read, in part, “Laos POW List Shows 9 from U.S.—Document Disappointing to Washington as 311 Were Believed Missing.” And the story, by John Finney, said that other Washington officials “believe the number of prisoners [in Laos] is probably substantially higher.” The paper never followed up with any serious investigative reporting—nor did any other mainstream news organization.

...stay tuned...

Because we know what it means to serve
Volunteering is the cornerstone of our great organization as highlighted in the preamble to The American Legion constitution “…to consecrate and sanctify our comradeship by our devotion to mutual helpfulness.”

Detachment Raffle Winners
Ohio State tailgate package: Sharon Mack of Napoleon, Ohio
The Hunting Package : Deb Feehow of Bowling Green, Ohio
The Camping Package: Richard L. Short of Cardington, Ohio
The winner of $200.00 for selling the 1st winning ticket : Tom Hurst of the 1st District

Steve Honigfort
SAL Detachment of Ohio
1st Vice Commander

Note from the Detachment Chaplain
     First of all, I want to thank everyone that attended the Detachment of Ohio Convention on May 14-16 in Perrysburg and for giving me the opportunity to serve this great Detachment as your Chaplain for 2010-2011. I promise to do my best. Also, a big "Thank You" goes out to the 1st District for the great venue and hospitality they showed hosting our convention. Give yourselves a big pat on the back, you all deserve it! If there is anything you need, feel free to e-mail or call me and I will do what I can to assist. Once again, "Thank You" for giving me this opportunity!
For God and Country,
Jon W. Coakley II

DETACHMENT ADJUTANT'S NOTES -- DONATIONS FOR 2009-2010
Department SAL Liaison Mike Wiswell has provided the following summary of our donations for the 2009-2010 administrative year.

-- Children's Miracle Network: $5,022

-- Canines for Combat Veterans: $25,500 (plus an additional $15,000 from K. T. Crossen Post 21 in Athens)

-- The American Legion Legacy Fund: $450

-- Gifts for Yanks: $2,532 (donated at last weekend's Detachment Convention; don't have the rest of the year's count)

-- Special Olympics: $3,628 (donated at last weekend's Detachment Convention; don't have the rest of the year's count)

-- Child Welfare Foundation: $24,139.75 (already turned in to National)
                                                  + 44,399.82 (ready to transmit)
                                                  -----------------
                                                   $68,539.57 (before any remaining shirt / merchandise sales, challenge coin monies, etc. next week)

REMEMBER: All monies for CWF must be delivered to Detachment Headquarters by Wednesday, May 26th so they can be counted and included in the check that will be sent to National on Thursday. Any donations arriving after that will applied to the 2010-2011 campaign.

National CWF Chairman and Past Detachment Commander Rob Brewer pledged $65,000 on behalf of Ohio when National Commander Mark Arneson asked what we could do this year to help reach a national goal of $500,000. I think they were both pleasantly surprised that we blew that number away on Sunday in Perrysburg. How high can we go, Ohio? $70,000 looks pretty good. Do I hear $75,000? Or More?

For God and Country,
Scott J. Thornton
Detachment Adjutant, Ohio
Sons of The American Legion

Child Welfare Foundation

I want to again say a big THANK YOU to the Detachment of Ohio, for the job well done this past weekend. Your hard work for the Child Welfare
Foundation, has once again paid off, shown by the donations turned it that will push Ohio's dollar amount to over $68,000.00. We still have 2 weeks to go, so I know that our record amount for donations will climb even higher.
Congrats to Commander Dave, and Chairman Dan, along with the entire Detachment of Ohio, and Legion Family of Ohio for once again showing our
support in this program.

Rob Brewer
CWF Committee Chairman Sons of The American Legion

Earl Cox Outstanding SAL Member of the Year

On behalf of the 11th District, we would like to congratulate Charleston Brown for receiving the Earl Cox Outstanding SAL member of the year award. We are honored for Charlie to be in our District. He does an outstanding job as Commander of his Squadron 64, Marietta, Ohio and as our adjutant and finance officer in our District Sons. Without Charlie, our District may not exist within the Sons of the American Legion. Congratulations Charlie.

S.A.L. District 11 Commander
David L Dilts

Convention Video

I'm almost finished uploading the videos taken last weekend at the detachment convention. You can see them at the Squadron website: sal389oh.org. Any comments are welcome. I should be able to finish the entire Convention soon, Bookmark the site and stop back often

Joe Heiss

SALute

Please welcome back Jeff Vabel as the editor of the SALute, the award winning newsletter for the Detachment of Ohio. Every detachment officer and chairman is expected to submit articles. Other members are encouraged to forward articles and pictures of local events. The dates for articles to be turned in are as followed , May 31, Aug, 31 , Nov. 30 , Feb. 28.

For this issue, send your articles to jeffvrabel@sbcglobal.net before the May 31 deadline.

Dear Legion family and friends of veterans:

As The American Legion Legacy Scholarship Fund enters the final weeks of the $250,000 grant competition conducted by the Pepsi Refresh Everything Project, we need your support more than ever. Only the top two finishers will receive the funds at the end of May, and the Legacy Scholarship Fund must make significant gains if it is to be successful.

Voting is easy and free. Simply visit www.legion.org and look for the “Vote Daily” panel in the right column.

DOD Identifies Army Casualties

The Department of Defense announced today the death of five soldiers who were supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. They died May 18 in Kabul, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked their convoy with a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device.

Killed were:
     Col. John M. McHugh, 46, of New Jersey, assigned to the U.S. Army Battle Command Training Program, Fort Leavenworth, Kan.;
     Lt. Col. Paul R. Bartz, 43, of Waterloo, Wis., assigned to Headquarters, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry), Fort Drum, N.Y.;
     Lt. Col. Thomas P. Belkofer, 44, of Perrysburg, Ohio, assigned to Headquarters, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry), Fort Drum, N.Y.;
     Staff Sgt. Richard J. Tieman, 28, of Waynesboro, Pa., assigned to Special Troops Battalion, V Corps, Heidelberg, Germany; and
     Spc. Joshua A. Tomlinson, 24, of Dubberly, La., assigned to Special Troops Battalion, V Corps, Heidelberg, Germany.

VA Publishes 2010 Federal Benefits Booklet
Contains summaries of programs and services
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has published the 2010 edition of Federal Benefits for Veterans, Dependents and Survivors, which contains a summary of a broad range of programs and services for which veterans may be eligible. Eligibility for most VA benefits is based upon discharge from active military service under other than dishonorable conditions.
In order to expedite benefits delivery, veterans seeking VA benefits for the first time must submit a copy of their service discharge form or give their full name, military service number, and branch and dates of service.
To view and download a PDF the booklet, click here.

Special Olympics

On May 19, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the 2010 Eunice Kennedy Shriver Act, a renewal of the 2004 Sport and Empowerment Act which authorized five years of funding for numerous Special Olympics programs.
The new bill also includes authorization for grants for Best Buddies International and the establishment of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver Institutes for Sport and Social Impact. The bill will now need to be passed by the U.S. Senate and signed by President Obama.
“This legislation honors Mrs. Shriver’s legacy and reaffirms Congress’s commitment to ensuring that everyone – including those with intellectual and developmental disabilities – has an opportunity to live full, successful lives.

U.S. Senator Orrin Hatch

"Special Olympics and the Best Buddies program have played a vital role in making sure that all people learn to succeed and achieve."

DETACHMENT ADJUTANT'S NOTES -- 2010 DETACHMENT CONVENTION

The Detachment Executive Committee will meet at 6:30 PM on Friday. Commander Dave Young will open the 47^th Convention at 8:00 PM. The Saturday and Sunday sessions will begin at 9:00 AM. Chaplain Gary Lang will conduct the Detachment Memorial Service on Sunday at 8:00 AM.

I would appreciate it if the Commission and Committee Chairmen could submit their reports in advance, either electronically or on paper, to facilitate the production of the minutes.

This year we are honored to have as our guests the current National Commander of the S.A.L., Mark Arneson, of Georgia, and the Leading Candidate for National Commander, David Dew, of Texas.

Anyone submitting entries for the various convention awards or bids to host the 2012 Detachment Convention must turn them in to the Adjutant before the opening of the Friday session. Late entries will not be judged.

If you wish to serve on one of the awards judging committees, please let me know before the DEC meeting on Friday night. All committees not populated by then will be assigned by Commander Young.

Delegates are reminded that casual dress is acceptable for the convention, however, coat and tie is required for the Sunday session. All Detachment Officers should dress in coat and tie for all sessions.

See you in Perrysburg!

For God and Country,

Scott J. Thornton

ScottJ.Thornton@Gmail.com

Detachment Adjutant

BUCKEYE BOYS STATE REPORT

Chris Robison, 2^nd Vice Commander of District 11, represented the S.A.L. at the Spring Meeting of the Buckeye Boys State Board of Trustees on Saturday, April 17, 2010 and reported that plans are pretty well set for the 2010 session at Bowling Green State University.

The schedule and activities have not changed much from last year, although a couple of areas we used are not available this time due to construction or cut backs related to BGSU’s pricing. The two biggest changes related to this will be the loss of use of the Recreation Center and relocating the Blood Drive on Saturday the 19^th.

As of the Spring Trustees meeting, Director Jerry White could identify 21 squadrons as either sponsoring or helping to sponsor young men to this year’s program. I’m sure there are others, but the paperwork didn’t indicate it. I would like to say thank you to all of them for continuing to support this important Americanism program and the opportunity it affords our youth to learn about how Ohio’s government entities are supposed to operate.

Again this year, the college ACT exam is scheduled for Saturday, June 12^th. If you know any boys who will be delegates to Boys State and they want to take the exam that day at BGSU, please make sure to have them notify the national ACT registration staff of their intentions through their school guidance counselor so they are scheduled correctly. The exam will finish in plenty of time for the boys to check in for Boys State. This is a lot easier than taking the test at home and then trying to get to Bowling Green before registration closes at 1:30.

In closing, I would like to thank Commander Young for asking me to serve this year as the Detachment Buckeye Boys State Chairman. Please contact me with any questions or if you would like to get involved with the program.

For God and Country,

Scott J. Thornton

Buckeye Boys State Chairman

Detachment of Ohio

Sons of The American Legion

THE GREAT HOLLAND POST WELCOMES YOU
FRIDAY MAY 14 BURGERS -N- FRIES 5PM-8PM
SATURDAY MAY 15 STEAK FRY 5PM - 8PM
50/50
ENTERTAINMENT ON FRI AND SAT EVENINGS 8PM - MIDNIGHT
SATURDAY MAY 15 AREA LEGION BUS TOUR WILL DEPART FROM HOTEL AND END UP AT HOLLAND POST FOR STEAK FRY
THE BUS ALSO WILL RUN SHUTTLE BETWEEN THE HOLIDAY INN FRENCH QUARTER AND THE HOLLAND POST ON SAT EVENING
FUN FOR ALL
HOLLAND POST 646 419-865-8511
Public welcome www.post646oh.com

Child Welfare Foundation 2010-2011 CWF Coin Design Contest
The Child Welfare Foundation will conduct a contest to design a new CWF coin. CWF coins are sold to raise money for the Foundation.
Contest rules:
1. The coin design must include the Child Welfare Foundation logo, name "Child Welfare Foundation, Inc." and either "Dedicated to the betterment of all children" or "For the betterment of all children."
2. Lettering may be "all upper case."
3. The coin design may incorporate color or colors.
4. The coin design may not exceed two (2) inches in diameter (at widest point).
5. The Foundation reserves the right to modify the winning design to maintain emblem/logo copyright protection.
6. The winning designer will grant use of the design, at no cost, to the Child Welfare Foundation, Inc. and The American Legion.
7. Designs must be postmarked not later than June 30, 2010.
8. Limit of one design per individual.
9. The decision of the judges is final.
10. Submit design to: Child Welfare

Desecration of Mojave Desert Cross Does Not Deter The American Legion in its Fight to Protect Memorials
            INDIANAPOLIS (May 11, 2010) – The American Legion vowed to continue its fight to preserve a veterans’ war memorial in the Mojave desert, even after vandals have apparently removed the cross in the middle of the night.
        “This was never about one cross,” said The American Legion National Commander Clarence E. Hill. “It’s about the right to honor our nation’s veterans in a manner in which the overwhelming majority supports. The American Legion strongly believes the public has a right to protect its memorials.”
        The lawless act is just the latest chapter in a decade-long legal fight pitting The American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Liberty Institute and several other organizations against the American Civil Liberties Union and other groups that find the cross offensive.
        According to a statement issued by the Mojave National Preserve, the cross was reported missing on Monday morning by staff of the National Park Service who went to the site to replace the wooden cover that had been removed from the cross sometime earlier. The cross has stood for the last 76 years as a memorial to World War I soldiers. The American Legion and its allies won what was widely believed to be a Supreme Court victory on April 28, when the court ruled that the memorial was not an overtly religious symbol. Moreover, Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy wrote that “the Constitution does not oblige government to avoid any public acknowledgment of religion’s role in society.” The Supreme Court ordered a lower court to reconsider the case.
The desecration of the memorial, did not sit well with Hill. “Reports that the Mojave Cross was illegally removed overnight are very disturbing,” he said. “The American Legion expects whoever is responsible for this vile act to be brought to justice. While the memorial has been attacked, the fight will continue to ensure that veterans memorials will remain sacrosanct.”
“This is an outrage, akin to desecrating people’s graves,” said Kelly Shackelford, president / CEO of Liberty Institute. “It’s a disgraceful act on the selfless act of our veterans. We will not rest until this memorial is re-installed.”
A $25,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest of those responsible. Anyone with information about the crime is asked to call (760) 252-6120.
With a membership of 2.5-million wartime veterans, The American Legion was founded in 1919 on the four pillars of a strong national security, veterans affairs, Americanism, and patriotic youth programs. Legionnaires work for the betterment of their communities through more than 14,000 posts across the nation.

Sons of The American Legion raised nearly $150,000

Members of The Sons of The American Legion raised nearly $150,000 during the 2010 Spring Meetings for The American Legion Child Welfare Foundation. The donations were the result of pledges being fulfilled by SAL detachments across the country.
"Despite the tough economic conditions, many SAL detachments have met and exceeded their pledges," said Mark Arneson, national commander of The Sons of The American Legion. "It's important to include your team members in goal setting if you want them to ‘buy in' to what you are striving to accomplish.
"Detachment leaders were a part of the goal setting process this year, and we simply asked them what they might be able to do. And they and all our members came through big time."
The Sons collected $149,837 the weekend prior to the Legion's National Executive Committee Spring Meetings the first week in May, Arneson said, exceeding the $80,000 to $90,000 usually collected during the same period. The SAL has surpassed by $7,000 its 2005 all-time record of $353,000 for CWF and is on track to raise more than $500,000 before this year's May 31 deadline.
"This year makes 17 consecutive years that the SAL has been the leading contributor to the CWF," Arneson said. "This is an accomplishment we are extremely proud of. Three short years ago we crossed the $3 million level; and this past membership year we surpassed the $4 million mark.
"Our affiliation with CWF has defined us as an organization. We believe in the mission of CWF and show our commitment by raising and donating substantial sums of money each year."

The American Legion Legacy Scholarship

The National Commander … and all of us, I’m sure … would like to receive another $250,000 from Pepsi so The American Legion could award several full-ride scholarships to the deserving children of men and women who lost their lives doing their duty since 9/11. To do this, we need to each vote every day (www.legion.org) for The American Legion Legacy Scholarship Fund. Please do it now, and encourage your friends and associates to vote also. There are many worthy charities in the competition, but certainly none more worthy than the Legacy Fund. “It’s not what we do; it’s who we are!”

From: Wheeler, Daniel S.

Post 69 4th Annual Prom

Date: Saturday-May 15

Where: 9000 Reading Road

Time: 8:00 pm to 12:00 am

Cash bar and appetizers-downstairs 7:00-8:00

Price: $10.00 per person,includes Beer and Set ups

DJ Deb

Come and enjoy your prom again, help support Legion, SAL and Auxiliary Programs

SUPPORT OUR TROOPS AND BLESSING OF THE BIKES/POKER RUN
MATT URBAN POST 40   VFW POST 1138
SATURDAY MAY 22, 2010   8:00AM TO 1:OOPM
BREAKFAST AVAILABLE DONATION 8:00AM - 11:OOAM
400 JONES AVENUE   MONROE, MI 48161
Contact Person: Wayne Blank 734-241-9131
REGISTER: 10:00AM - 1:00PM
FIRST BIKE OUT: AFTER BLESSING
BLESSING OF BIKES: 11:OOAM    LAST BIKE IN 4:00PM
DRIVERS $15.00 PASSENGERS$10.00 ($1.00 OFF IF DONATING ITEM TO TROOPS)
BEST 3 HANDS PAY
RIDE ENDS AT: NEWPORT VFW POST 3943 5144 N DIXIE HWY MONROE; MI 49162

American Legion Riders Post #40 IS COLLECTING ITEMS NEEDED BY OUR TROOPS
8:00AM - 1:OOPM
FEATURING: DJ "DADDY G. KNIGHT", TOM TREECE, MILITARY VEIDCLES, VETERANS,
BROOKLYN KIWANIS PROJECT SOLDIER, ADOPT A PLATOON, KIDS DRAW
PICTURESIMAKE CARDS, ADOPT A US SOLDIER, ETC.
ITEMS NEEDED: TRA VEL SIZE: BABY WIPES, BABY POWDER, BAR SOAP, SHAMPOO, TOOTHPASTE, LOTION, LIP BALM
FOOD: BEEF JERKEY, SNACK SIZE COOKIES, ENERGY/CEREAL/GRANOLA BARS, GUM, HARD CANDY,
NUTS (SINGLE SERVING SIZE), RAMEN NOODLES (ALL FLAVORS), INSTANT OATMEAL,
CmCKENITUNA PACKETS, INSTANT/GROUND COFFEE, TEA (INDIVIDUALLY WRAPPED),
POWDERED DRINK MIX SINGLES, RAISINS, DRIED FRUIT, FRUIT ROLL-UPS, (NO CHOCOLATE)
OTHER: BEANIE BABIES, PENS, PUZZLE/WORD FIND BOOKS, PLAYING CARDS, HAND SANITIZER WIPES

Special Olympics Ohio Calendar of Events
June 19-25 – Law Enforcement Torch Run Statewide
June 25-27 – State Summer Games The Ohio State University
June 27 – Plane Pull Cleveland Hopkins Airport
July 18-23 –National Games Lincoln, Nebraska
July 28 –Special Olympics Night with the Cleveland Indians Cleveland
September 18 – State Softball Tournament Oregon
September 21-22 – State Golf Tournament Cincinnati
October 23-24 – State Team Bowling Tournament Columbus
December 18-19 - State Aquatics Meet The Ohio State University

To the 40/8 members

I want to congratulate Charlie Swanson for his award, and I want to thank everyone who had a part in the wreck Saturday. Seeing the members pull together the way they did was great and gave me a new respect for the word brotherhood. I won't try to list all the names involved because I don't want to leave anyone out, but I want you to know that no one I asked even hesitated to jump in and go with the training, even down to demonstrating the "The Little Tea Pot" song.

Special thanks to the Sous Conductor, I couldn't have done it without Mike, he's my inspiration.
I would to thank Boom Boom Beacher for the dark spots in my underwear Saturday.
Thanks also to the great job the SAL did for us and for the contributions from the auxiliary.

David Maple

2nd Vice Commander

    It has been a busy couple of weeks and with the Convention in Perrysburg around the corner we are about to all get down to business and also have some fun. I recently visited the 9th District for their conference and was warmly welcomed. I want to thank all the officers there for a great meal and a good time. The guys there also purchased some of my Detachment Raffle tickets and that was also greatly appreciated. This past weekend I attended NMI training in Indianapolis along with 1st Vice Rex, Chaplain Gary, and Adjutant Scott. We had many Detachment representatives also there for the meetings held there as well. The Detachment of Ohio again as always shows up and proudly shows we can do the job or challenge brought before us. So guys I need to challenge you all to sell your remaining Detachment Raffle tickets and I also ask to sell from your heart as the monies are for a good cause. As always mentioned I need you to help me make my
year a success and I want you to know all prizes are in place and ready to give out. Despite a bad year economically, we aren't doing to bad and who couldn't use $200.00 in their pocket for selling the the first winning ticket drawn out at convention.
          Also being from the 1st District, I want you to know a good time awaits all of you and your families. The guys there have worked hard to show you a fun time and if you want to participate in any of the activities going on , please make a phone call and get signed up for the fun functions going on Convention weekend in Perrysburg.
We will do both the work and have some good times along the way and make it an unforgettable time.
        Raffle tickets are still available and sold tickets and monies can be given to me as you find convenient. If you need any info contact me via E-mail or phone, or by mail.

Thank you all,
Steve Honigfort

SAL Detachment of Ohio 2nd Vice Commander
E-mail: shonigfort@yahoo.com Phone: 419-674-1558

SAL NATIONAL CONVENTION DELEGATES

All districts should have received letters from detachment headquarters with your number of allowed delegates for national convention. As in the past I would like to ask that you fill out your form and get it to me by May 13. This will allow me to hopefully have the report ready going into convention and I will not need to make many changes. If you have any questions feel free to contact me at the numbers and address below. Thanks in advance for your help.

I have only heard from Districts 3, 5, 9, 12, and 14.

Dan Sagraves, Convention Screening
937-445-4881 days 7:00 am - 4:00 pm.
937-236-4755 evenings 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm
dsagraves@woh.rr.com

Canines for Combat Vets

    Any time you send a donation in for VA & R or Gifts for Yanks and would like for the donation to go towards Canines for Combat Vets it is important that you write the word Canine or the letters CCV somewhere on the check. If you do not do this the donation will not be directed towards this program.
    I would also remind you if you haven't already done so to please re-register for the Kroger Community Awards program and designate Canines for Combat Vets as the recipient of your awards. A copy of the letter with specific instructions was in the latest issue of the SALute.
    Also, a reminder that we will have plenty of shirts, pins and marbles available at Detachment Convention next weekend. I look forward to seeing all of you there!

James M. (Butch) Badgett VA & R Chairperson
(740) 373-6407 dcc@suddenlink.net

American Legion Internal Affairs Commission

    A question was brought up during the spring National Executive Committee meetings concerning the posting of individual SAL Commission/Committee minutes to the SAL web page.
    This question was addressed to the American Legion Internal Affairs Commission and guidance was received to follow that of The American Legion. Presently minutes are not posted. Only resolutions are posted. Therefore, the Sons should not post these minutes and only post resolutions to the web page at this time.
    Discussions are being held in The American Legion to post the final copy of the digest of the final minutes to the Legion Web page, but approval has not been granted. Should this change in the future, we will be most happy to readdress this issue.

John Kerestan
SAL Liaison, Internal Affairs
The American Legion

The American Legion Legacy Scholarship Fund competing for $250K Pepsi Refresh Everything grant Votes Needed! INDIANAPOLIS (May 3, 2010) – The American Legion Legacy Scholarship Fund is competing for a $250,000 grant to be awarded by the Pepsi Beverage Company as part of its Refresh Everything Project this month. The winning charities are determined by the amount of votes received on the Refresh Everything Web site. The American Legion’s Operation Comfort Warriors finished in first place during February’s voting and has already been awarded the top grant of $250,000.
“I was very proud of those who supported us in February and enabled us to fund a program that directly supports our wounded heroes,” said The American Legion National Commander Clarence E. Hill. “Now it’s time to come to the aid of another group of deserving people, those whose parents paid the ultimate price and sacrificed their lives while serving in our military during the War on Terrorism. The American Legion Legacy Scholarship Fund ensures that the children of these fallen heroes will be able to attend college and not have to worry about the rising cost of higher education. We can support the children of these heroes simply by voting every day throughout the month of May. The process will cost you nothing, but the reward can truly make a difference.”
Visitors can cast their votes at www.refresheverything.com/theamericanlegionlegacyscholarship
Hill also recommended that Legionnaires, Legion family members, friends and supporters of The American Legion spread the message to vote for The American Legion Legacy Scholarship Fund.
“Individual voting alone will not win this competition,” Hill said. “We need people to post it on their web sites, Facebook and Twitter accounts. They should use all social media methods at their disposal. Operation Comfort Warriors was able to win because American Legion posts, Auxiliary units, Sons of the American Legion squadrons and American Legion Riders chapters all came together and worked toward a common goal. Spreading the word in newsletters and the mainstream media can also help us replicate our earlier success.”
With a current membership of 2.5-million wartime veterans, The American Legion was founded in 1919 on the four pillars of a strong national security, veterans affairs, Americanism, and youth programs. Legionnaires work for the betterment of their communities through more than 14,000 posts across the nation.

New Scholarship for the Children of Fallen Service Members Benefit Honors Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry
WASHINGTON (April 30, 2010) - The children of military personnel who died in the line of duty since Sept. 11, 2001 can apply for an educational scholarship similar to the new Post-9/11 GI Bill. Benefits are retroactive to Aug. 1, 2009.
The scholarship, which is administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs, are named after Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry, 28, a Texas native who died in Iraq in 2006 while disarming an explosive. He was survived by three young children.
"The Fry scholarship represents this nation's solemn commitment to care for children whose mothers and fathers paid the ultimate price for our country," said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki.
VA begins accepting applications for the Fry scholarship on May 1, 2010. For more information or assistance applying, call toll-free 1-888-GIBILL-1 (1-888-442-4551), or visit the VA GI Bill Website at www.gibill.va.gov <http://www.gibill.va.gov/> .
VA estimates nearly 1,500 children will receive benefits under the Fry scholarship program in 2010. Recipients generally have 15 years to use their benefits, beginning on their 18th birthdays.
Eligible children attending institutions of higher learning may receive payments to cover their tuition and fees up to the highest amounts charged to public, in-state students at undergraduate institutions in each state. A monthly housing allowance and stipend for books and supplies are also paid under this program.
VA will begin paying benefits under the Fry scholarships on Aug. 1, 2010. Eligible participants may receive benefits retroactively to August 1, 2009, the same day the Post-9/11 GI Bill took effect. Eligible children may be married. Recipients are entitled to 36 months of benefits at the 100 percent level.
When dependents also serve in the military, the reserves or are Veterans in their own right, eligible for education benefits under the Montgomery GI Bill for Active Duty, the Montgomery GI Bill for Selected Reserves or the Reserve Educational Assistance Program (REAP), then they would relinquish their eligibility under those programs to receive benefits under a Fry scholarship.

U.S. House, Senate File Eunice Kennedy Shriver Act
On April 29, the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate filed identical versions of the 2010 Eunice Kennedy Shriver Act, a renewal of the 2004 Sport and Empowerment Act which authorized five years of funding for numerous Special Olympics programs.
The new bill also includes authorization for grants for Best Buddies International. The bill will now need to be passed by both houses of Congress and signed by President Obama. Read more

Fond du Lac, Wisc., teen named The American Legion Eagle Scout of the Year
        INDIANAPOLIS (May 5, 2010) -- A Fond du Lac, Wisc., student has been named The American Legion Eagle Scout of the Year for 2010.
        Joe Phillips, 18, a senior at St. Mary’s Springs High School, earned the title and a college scholarship worth $10,000. The award was announced today during The American Legion's board of directors meeting here.

        The award recognizes Phillips’ practical citizenship at school, scouting and his passion and commitment to the the Flag of the United States and all that it represents. His project consisted of planning, coordinating and executing a community drive for unserviceable U.S. flags, culminating in a formal flag retirement ceremony on Flag Day, June 14, 2008 at Izaak Walton Conservation Club in Fond du Lac. He organized, publicized and set up collection points for the three week drive that resulted in the acquisition of 2,900 flags. Working with The American Legion, he coordinated the formal flag retirement ceremony where U.S Rep. Tom Petri, State Assemblyman John Townsend and City Manager Tom Herre provided remarks. Phillips enlisted 57 people along the way to ensure the success of the project.
        Phillips is listed in the Who’s Who Among American High School Students. A recipient of the Young Adult Gold Presidential Volunteer Service Award, he is a member of the National Society of High School Scholars and the recipient of awards in national speech and drama; history and government; fine arts, mathematics, leadership and service from the United States Achievement Academy.
        A member of the Maximillian Singers, a professional young adult song and dance troupe, he performed with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra at Uihlein Hall. The Valedictorian of St. Mary’s Springs Class of 2010, he plans to pursue a double major in choral and general music education with a minor in theater at the University of Wisconsin in Eau Claire and eventually obtain a doctorate and become a professor of music.
        Phillips has been an Eagle Scout since 2008 and a runner-up in The American Legion’s 2009 Eagle Scout of the Year competition.
        The American Legion also awarded $2,500 scholarships to Robert B. Rasmussen of Hutchinson, Minn.; Justin R. Knoll of LaPorte, Ind.; and Michael T. Smith of Alpharetta, Ga.
        The American Legion has supported Scouting since its first National Convention in 1919. Legion posts sponsor more than 2,700 Scouting units, serving more than 71,000 young people, at a cost of more than $1.7 million.

Poppy Reminds Us of Veterans' Past Sacrifices, Continuing Needs
As recently highlighted in the May 2010 issue of Ladies' Home Journal, the American Legion Auxiliary poppy is a great tribute to America's servicemembers. This symbol of sacrifice is made by veterans for veterans.

In 1923, the poppy became the official flower of The American Legion Family in memory of soldiers who fought on the battlefields of Belgium during World War I. Each year around Memorial Day, Auxiliary volunteers distribute millions of bright red poppies in exchange for contributions to assist disabled and hospitalized veterans. In recent years, the average donation per poppy was 45 cents. Clearly, there is room for an increase in poppy donations! You can help support the poppy program and the disabled or hospitalized veterans who make them by donating to the National Veterans Creative Arts Festival, an event co-sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary. NVCAF is an annual gathering of talent in the arts for veterans treated in the VA's national healthcare system. Click here for the American Legion Auxiliary's online giving form.

American Legion Legacy Run UPDATE
As of today more than 230 riders and passengers have pre-registered for the August 22-26 event. Pre-registration is $50 for each operator and $25 for each passenger before August 1. Registration fees rise after that date.

Click Here for the 2010 American Legion Legacy Run Registration Form.

Please remember that riders and passengers must complete and sign separate registration forms, and that all participants should indicate if they plan to ride the entire way from Indianapolis to Milwaukee, or only part way.

TEAM ELIZABETH

I want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you for your generous support!!!!!
“TEAM ELIZABETH” so far has raised over $4300.00.
The Arthritis walk was this past Saturday, we could not of asked for a more beautiful day. The sun was shining and the rain held off until after the walk. Over 40 people showed up for the walk for our team.
I can’t express enough how much gratitude I have for everyone.
Elizabeth means the world to us, and with your support this year we are one step closer to a CURE.
Thank you again.
Kathy Pawlak

LASAGNA, SALAD, DESSERT, ROLL AND BUTTER
$7.00 PER PERSON $4.00 KIDS UNDER 12
YEAGER-BENSON MEMORIAL SQUADRON 199,
SONS OF THE AMERICAN LEGION
10700 CAMPBELL RD. HARRISON, OH. 45030
MAY 8, 2010
4:30 P.M. till 7:00 P.M. (OR GONE)
COME OUT AND ENJOY GOOD FOOD, GOOD FUN, GREAT COMRADERY

FOR MORE INFO: 708-1969 or 367-9180

YEAGER-BENSON AMERICAN LEGION BINGO
10700 CAMPBELL ROAD, HARRISON, OHIO
WHEN: THURSDAY EVENINGS STARTING MAY 6TH
TIME: DOORS OPEN 6 PM, BINGO STARTS AT 7:15 PM
$15.00 ALL YOU CAN PLAY, $1.00 QUICKIE AND $1.00 BONANZA GAMES ALONG WITH REGULAR BINGO GAMES.
ALSO TWO (2) $1,000.00 COVERALL GAMES IN 54 NUMBERS OR LESS
PLAY BINGO AND HELP THE AMERICN LEGION SUPPORT COMMUNITY PROGRAMS
FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 513-367-9180

BGS Tea:
May 16 th at Charles Faust Unit # 281, 1601 Front St. Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221 2:00 to 4:00 pm

Please send your Delegate and Alternate names & addresses to the Dist. Coordinator -

Cindy Patrick, 9343 Briar Dr, Streetsboro, OH 44241 -

email cindy26@roadrunner.com

BGS - June 13-20 2010 at Ashland University.

SUMMERFEST WEEKEND
AMERCIAN LEGION GROUNDS
PEMBERVILLE, OHIO
PRESENTED BY S.A.L. SQUADRON 183

Friday May 28, 2010
Cornhole Tournament $25 TEAM ENTRY FEE 32 TEAM LIMIT
REGISTRATION - 6 P.M. PLAY BEGINS - 7 P.M.
TOP 3 PLACES PAY!

SAWBUCK BAND Square Dance and Country-Westerm Music
ADMISSION - $6
8 P.M. - 11 P.M. GATE OPEN AT 6 P.M.

Saturday May 29, 2010
THE SPEDS A PREMIER PARTY BAND
ROCK & ROLL TO THE MUSIC OF BOSTON, JOURNEY, STIX, VAN HALEN, SKYNARD, AND MANY MORE!
ADMISSION - $10
8 P.M. - 12 P.M. GATE OPENS AT 6 P.M.

THANKS DISTRICT 5 AND 14
ON SUNDAY THE 25TH I VISITED THE 14TH DISTRICT AT 331 RAVENNA POST. WHAT A GOOD GROUP OF OFFICERS THEY HAVE.THEIR MEMBERSHIP IS GREAT THEIR ATTENDANCE AT THEIR AT THEIR MEETING WAS ALSO GOOD.I BELIEVE THEY HAVE SELECTED A GOOD GROUP OF OFFICERS FOR 2010-2011 YEAR GOOD LUCK TO ALL OF THEM.A BIG THANK YOU GO'S TO COMMANDER KEN MILLICK FOR THE NIGHT BEFORE FOR SHOWING ME AROUND KENT. AND SPENDING MORE TIME THEN WE SHOULD HAVE AT 496 KENT POST WHAT A NICE POST.
ALSO ON SATURDAY THE 17TH I SPENT THE EVENING AT THE 5TH DISTRICT. WHAT A GOOD TIME AS ALWAYS THANK YOU COMMANDER DAVE BROWN FOR THE INVITE. THANK YOU FOR LETTING ME SWEAR IN THE NEW SLATE OF OFFICERS. CONGRATULATIONS GOES TO SPANKY THE NEW 5TH DISTRICT COMMANDER AND ALL THE NEW OFFICERS. WHAT A GREAT DINNER WE HAD BEFORE THE MEETING THANKS GOES TO SQUADRON 257 GOOD JOB AND ALSO THE HOSPITALITY AFTER THE MEETING THANKS TO ALL
GARY LANG
DETACHMENT CHAPLAIN

SAL NATIONAL CONVENTION DELEGATES

Legion leader hails Supreme Court decision on Mojave Cross as victory for common sense
        WASHINGTON (April 28, 2010) – The national commander of The American Legion today hailed the 5-4 decision of the Supreme court reversing a lower court decision that could have required the removal of a cross that has stood in the Mojave National Preserve for more than 75 years.
        “I commend the court for its decision that finally restores common sense that will enable this symbol to stand proudly as intended – a tribute to honor American soldiers who died in World War I,” said National Commander Clarence E. Hill. “This is a landmark decision that not only preserves the Mojave Desert cross, but also helps protect all memorials to our fallen heroes.”
        The American Legion joined as an amicus curiae (friend of the court) in action favoring preservation of the monument that resulted in the case being argued before the U.S. Supreme Court last year.
        “The court reaffirmed the will of the people through Congress, which passed legislation to accommodate the cross,” Hill said. “The cross should remain because Congress transferred a small plot on which it stands to a private group and addressed constitutional concerns.”
        Justice Anthony Kennedy wrote in the ruling, “The goal of avoiding governmental endorsement does not require eradication of all religious symbols in the public realm. Here one Latin cross in the desert evokes far more than religion. It evokes thousands of small crosses in foreign fields marking the graves of Americans who fell in battles, battles whose tragedies are compounded if the fallen are forgotten.”
        However, the battle may not be entirely over. The Court remanded the case to the U.S. District Court to give it a chance to see if any other legal alternatives exist. However, the High Court reminded the District Court that: “Respect for a coordinate branch of Government forbids striking down an Act of Congress except upon a clear showing of unconstitutionality.”
        The cross will remain covered pending the District Court’s review.
        “The American Legion will continue to fight for the values and freedoms veterans gave their lives for,” Hill said.

American Legion Legacy Run
As of today more than 200 riders and passengers have pre-registered for the August 22-26 event. Pre-registration is $50 for each operator and $25 for each passenger before August 1. Registration fees rise after that date.
Click Here for the 2010 American Legion Legacy Run Registration Form. Please remember that riders and passengers must complete and sign separate registration forms, and that all participants should indicate if they plan to ride the entire way from Indianapolis to Milwaukee, or only part way.

SUMMIT COUNTY STAND DOWN
ONCE AGAIN IT IS TIME TO BEGIN MAKING PLANS FOR OUR ANNUAL "STAND DOWN"
WHICH IS HELD IN SEPTEMBER. IT IS OUR CHANCE TO LEND A HELPING HAND TO OUR LESS FORTUNATE FELLOW VETERANS.
MOST OF THE ITEMS WE GIVE ARE MADE IN THIS COUNTRY AND COME FROM FEDERATED WHOLESALE IN GEORGIA. THEREFORE, IT IS NECESSARY TO GET THINGS ORDERED SOWE ARE READY IN SEPTEMBER. THAT IS WHY WE ARE ASKING YOU TO BEGIN SENDING IN YOUR DONATIONS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. PLEASE KNOW THAT YOU CAN USE YOUR CHARITY FUND MONEY FROM TICKET SALES TO DONATE. IF YOU COULD HEAR THE COMMENTS FROM THE VETERANS WE SERVE YOU WOULD KNOW WHY THIS PROGRAM IS SO IMPORTANT.

PLEASE SEND TO:
DALE LUZADER
222 WOOSTER STREET
LODI, OHIO 44254

P.S. PLEASE MAKE CHECKS OUT TO FEDERATED WHOLESALE.

American Legion Steak Fry
Whitehouse Post 384
6910 Providence Street,
Whitehouse, Ohio 43571
•5 to 8 pm
•Contact: –Paul Smith at 419-661-2479 for any questions.
This is an event that is held on the first Saturday of each month.

DJ NIGHT
May 7th, 14th & 28th 2010 8 PM – 11 PM
AMERICAN LEGION POST 384 6910 Providence Street
Whitehouse, Ohio 43571
8 PM – 11 PM

THE GREAT HOLLAND POST WELCOMES YOU
FRIDAY MAY 14 BURGERS -N- FRIES 5PM-8PM

SATURDAY MAY 15 STEAK FRY 5PM - 8PM
50/50
ENTERTAINMENT ON FRI AND SAT EVENINGS 8PM - MIDNIGHT
SATURDAY MAY 15 AREA LEGION BUS TOUR WILL DEPART FROM HOTEL AND END UP AT HOLLAND POST FOR STEAK FRY
THE BUS ALSO WILL RUN SHUTTLE BETWEEN THE HOLIDAY INN FRENCH QUARTER AND THE HOLLAND POST ON SAT EVENING
FUN FOR ALL
HOLLAND POST 646 419-865-8511
Public welcome www.post646oh.com

2010 Lawn Mower Raffle
Held on Cherry Fest! Saturdav, June 12, 2010 @ 7:00PM
At Whitehouse American Legion Post 384
Grand Prize: JOHN DEERE 100Series Model LA45 Lawn Tractor (22 HP, 48" Mower Deck)
Second Prize: Master Forge Gas Grill #SH3118B
Third Prize: $200 CASH
Please See a 384 S.A.l. Member For Tickets
( $10.00 Donation)

U.S. Airmen MIA from WWII are Identified
The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office announced today that the remains of eight U.S. servicemen, missing in action from World War II, have been accounted-for and returned to their families for burial with full military honors.
The group remains of Lt. Jack S. M. Arnett, Charleston, W.V.; Flight Officer William B. Simpson, Winston-Salem, N.C.; Tech. Sgt. Charles T. Goulding, Marlboro, N.Y.; Tech. Sgt. Robert J. Stimson, San Bernardino, Calif.; Staff Sgt. Jimmie Doyle, Lamesa, Texas; Staff Sgt. Leland D. Price, Oakwood, Ohio; and Staff Sgt. Earl E. Yoh, Scott, Ohio, and the individual remains of Lt. Frank J. Arhar, Lloydell, Pa. were buried today in Arlington National Cemetery. The individual remains of Arnett, Yoh, Doyle and Stinson were buried earlier by their families.

Membership

Membership !!! I would like to take this time and say Nice job to the Fourteenth and the First Districts on membership. Lets keep pushing membership and try to get 100%. For all the squadrons that made 100% great job. Remember say a pray to ALL the Troops and there Family. God Bless American Land of the Free

Thanks for all the good work ! Rex Buchs

CANINES FOR COMBAT VETS
I have been notified by the Kroger Company that those of you who participated in this years Kroger Community Awards program must re-enroll in the program in order for us to continue to earn funds for Canines for Combat Vets. The program itself is already re-enrolled but those participating must re-enroll. The new enrollment period started April 1, 2010.

It is very easy to enroll or re-enroll in Kroger Community Awards:

Just visit www.krogercommunityrewards.com. Click on OHIO to sign up for a Kroger.com account or click on ALREADY ENROLLED? SIGN IN if you already have an account. All participants must have a valid online account at Kroger.com to participate. The option of signing up by using the scan bar is no longer available.

Early enrollment or re-enrollment will help the program grow its rewards immediately.

As I have reported earlier, Canines for Combat Vets received over $1,000.00 this last year through this program. I am asking you to please enroll or re-enroll as soon as possible so that we can receive even more this coming year.

For more information give me a call.

James M. (Butch) Badgett
VA & R Chairperson
Phone: 740-373-6407
Email: dcc@suddenlink.net

CWF Dinner at the NEC

Sons of The American Legion Child Welfare Foundation Fundraiser Saturday, May 1, 2010 at American Legion Post 500, 1926 N. Georgetown Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46224
Social Hour 5:30—6:30 PM Buffet Dinner 6:30—8:00 PM
Dinner includes: Fried chicken or roast beef, salad, mashed potato and green beans, coffee or iced tea.
Cost is $25.00 per person, payable at the door. A $10.00 donation from each dinner will benefit The American Legion Child Welfare Foundation. A Cash Bar will be available.
A required count of those who plan to attend is required by Wednesday, April 28, 2010.
Please have a Detachment Representative (Commander, Adjutant, NEC, Alt. NEC, or Detachment CWF Chairman) respond to Ray Giehll, Jr. at
rpgiehll@sbcglobal.net by that date with a total count from your Detachment of those who plan to attend.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Ray Giehll, Jr. at rpgiehll@sbcglobal.net .Thank you in advance for your cooperation and participation.

Junior Auxiliary

Molly McLaughlin, Honorary National Junior President, has asked all departments to contribute $1 for each of their Junior members in honor of the National Veterans Creative Arts Festival . Has your department participated in Molly's special project?

DISTRICT 14 SAL

District 14 SAL convention will be held Sunday April 25th at Post 331 in Ravenna at 2:00. The agenda includes election of officers for the 2011 membership year. Come out and determine the future of the District. D-14 squadrons which have not done so may bring their Officer Certification form and their Consolidated Report Form to the meeting and we will mail for you to Detachment headquarters.
Ken Millick

Auxiliary Unit 69

9000 Reading Road Reading , OH 45215

Country Western Dance

Saturday-April 24th

Downstairs-8:00 pm to 12:00am

Come enjoy some Country Music and Legion company

Joy Niefield

4TH ANNUAL BLESSING OF THE BIKES!
HOLLAND AMERICAN LEGION POST #646 HOLLAND, OHIO
WHEN: APRIL 25th AT 12:30
1074 CLARION AVE. HOLLAND, OHIO 419-865-8511
WWW.POST6460H.COM
ALL YOU CAN EAT BREAKFAST BUFFET WILL BE AVAILABLE FROM 9:00-NOON, FOR
$6.00 ADULTS, $5.OO SENIORS.
PANCAKES, EGGS COOKEDTO ORDER, FRENCH TOAST, POTATOES, BACON, SAUSAGE, BISCUITSAND GRAVY, COFFEE, JUICE, MILK.
COME EARLY AND ENJOY THE FUN! MAKE NEW FRIENDS AND HANG OUT!
CONTACT~TOM BIXLER DIRECTOR, LEGION RIDERS 646 OH 419-297-5260
LEE ROPP MEMBERSHIP CHAIRMAN, LEGION RIDERS 646 OH 419-356-1134
BLESSINGTO BE PERFORMED BY BIKER PASTOR JIM MAJO
SPONSORED BY: AMERICAN LEGION RIDERS
POST 646 HOLLAND, OHIO

Auxiliary Garage Sale
Joe Barr Auxiliary Unit 194
401 Reading Rd Mason, Ohio
Saturday May 1
8:00 Am till 2:00 PM
All proceeds go to our Auxiliary programs.

Marsha
President Unit 194

DETACHMENT CONVENTION ACTIVITY

THE GREAT HOLLAND POST 646 WELCOMES YOU
FRIDAY MAY 14 BURGERS -N- FRIES 5PM-8PM
SATURDAY MAY 15 STEAK FRY 5PM - 8PM
50/50
ENTERTAINMENT ON FRI AND SAT EVENINGS 8PM - MIDNIGHT
SATURDAY MAY 15 AREA LEGION BUS TOUR WILL DEPART FROM HOTEL AND END UP AT HOLLAND POST FOR THE STEAK FRY
THE BUS ALSO WILL RUN SHUTTLE BETWEEN THE HOLIDAY INN FRENCH QUARTER AND THE HOLLAND POST ON SAT EVENING
FUN FOR ALL
HOLLAND POST 646 419-865-8511
Public welcome www.post646oh.com

VA Issues Phone Scam Warning
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has issued a warning to veterans not to disclose personal information over the phone to callers claiming to update, confirm, or verify VA-related information. VA reports the fraudulent caller’s mode of operation include asking for credit card numbers, bank routing numbers, and other personal and financial information. A recent fraudulent call reported by a veteran included the caller claiming to be a VA employee and stating that the veteran’s medical card had expired. The caller would then ask the veteran to submit a check over the phone to renew the medical card.
VA warns to be leery of any call originating from (888) 555-1234 for it is the number identified in the case above. Veterans with questions about VA services should contact VA at (877) 222-8387 or the nearest VA medical center.

Barry A. Searle, Director
National Veterans Affairs
and Rehabilitation Commission

Adopt-a-Highway

Looking for a way to improve your surroundings? The National Americanism Committee would like to bring to your attention another program that we as Sons, feel is a very important one.
The Adopt-a-Highway program gives groups the opportunity to help their communities by collecting litter and beautifying roadsides. This international program originated in Texas, where it remains one of the Lone Star State's most successful public-private initiatives. Across the country, thousands of communities have signaled their commitment to keeping America beautiful by adopting stretches of highway and pledging to keep them litter-free. Let’s see the Sons do our part! Remember, each state has its own rules and registration procedures. So check with your state and follow its guidelines.

Thanks for all you do for Americanism
Gerald Hammerschmidt Americanism Chairman

U.S. Airman MIA from WWII is Identified
The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing in action from World War II, have been identified and returned to his family for burial with full military honors.
U.S. Army Air Forces Tech. Sgt. Walter A. McClellan will be buried Friday in his hometown of Pensacola, Fla.

Special Olympics National Volunteer Week

This week is National Volunteer Week in the United States and a perfect time to thank the more than 1 million volunteers who help make Special Olympics happen throughout the world. Our volunteers are the backbone of our movement. Whether thru coaching, event management, fund raising or public awareness, this movement could not exist without this dedicated corps of people.
I’ve often heard from our volunteers that they feel like they get so much more from their experience then they put in. It is safe to say that our athletes have the ability to bring out the best of the human spirit and they are why we have the most dedicated volunteers on Earth.
On behalf of the entire Special Olympics movement – Volunteers, thank you for everything you have done to help make an impact on our athletes and your communities!
Sincerely,
Brady Lum
President & Chief Operating Officer
Special Olympics, Inc.

John F. Taylor, 75, of Lakeville, died Friday afternoon, January 8th, in Colonial Manor Health Care Center, Loudonville.

John was a member and past commander of American Legion Post 257, Loudonville. He served all of offices in District 5 of the Ohio American Legion and served as State Sergeant-at-arms. He served as the state adviser for the Sons of the American Legion for 20 years.

The updates, location, and correct info for the John Taylor calling hours and funeral is as follows:

Calling Hours: Monday, January 11, 2010 from 6-8 pm only
Funeral: Tuesday, January 12, 2010 at 11 am at the funeral home

Online condolences may be made at www.Byerly-Lindsey.com.

Byerly-Lindsey Funeral Home
123 N. Market Street
Loudonville, OH 44842
(419) 994-3030

Here's Nancy's address for people to send her sympathy cards

Nancy Taylor

2685 St. Rt. 179

Lakeville, OH 44638

Detachment officers planning to attend Monday's showing are encouraged to contact Dave Brown <dbrown@truaxprinting.com>

SAL NEWS

2nd Vice Steve Honigfort
We are down to (4) weeks until the Detachment Convention and a which promises to be a good get together. I hope all of you are finding things getting better for you . I am encouraged by recent the returns on the Detachment raffle ticket sales of late and expect to see many more soon. Please try hard to get tickets sold ASAP, as I know there are many people wanting to buy we just need sellers to step up to the plate. Guys, there are three nice prize packages to chose from and the person who sells the first winning ticket drawn gets $200.00. If you can't sell them then buy a few, I have plenty of extra tickets if you need more and will gladly get them to you. Mail all stubs and monies to me at the below address again THANK YOU for your support, as these monies go for a good cause. Open up your heart and give it your best effort.

For God and Country,
Steve Honigfort shonigfort@yahoo.com
Detachment of Ohio 2nd Vice Commander

DETACHMENT ADJUTANT'S NOTES
2011 SQUADRON & DISTRICT OFFICER CERTIFICATIONS
This is a reminder that your new squadron and district officers must be certified to Detachment Headquarters by May 1st. Certification forms have been mailed to your Squadron Adjutant, or they are available from the detachment website.

2010 CONSOLIDATED SQUADRON REPORTS
Please complete your CSR form and send it to HQ as soon as possible. It would be helpful if everyone gets this done by the state convention or just after. This will give us time to add everything up and send it to National in time for the convention in Milwaukee.

2010 DETACHMENT CONVENTION DELEGATE REGISTRATION
The deadline to register your squadron’s delegates, alternates, visitors and advisor is Friday, May 7, 2010 at Detachment Headquarters. This is not a postmark date. The registration fee for everyone is $5.00 per person. Only guests and visitors may register at the hotel.

Anyone wishing to be selected as a delegate to the National Convention in Milwaukee should be in attendance at the Detachment Convention in Perrysburg.

2010 NATIONAL CONVENTION HOUSING RESERVATIONS
Housing reservation forms for the National Convention in Milwaukee have been mailed to all attendees of last year’s convention. If you need one, whether you attended in Louisville or not, and have not received it, please contact Mike Wiswell at Detachment Headquarters. The deadline is July 21, 2010 at HQ. I recommend you submit yours well in advance as the rooms often run out quickly.

For God and Country,
Scott J. Thornton ScottJ.Thornton@Gmail.com
Detachment Adjutant

AMERICAN LEGION BUCKEYE BOYS STATE REPORT
The Spring Meeting of the Board of Trustees will be this Saturday, April 17th at Department Headquarters. This meeting will finalize the plans for the June session at Bowling Green State University which will run from the 12th to the 20th.

Along with many other dignitaries who will appear at this year’s program, we are expecting to be visited by two distinguished Legionnaires from Ohio. Jim Morris of Post 97 in Cardington is the National Vice Commander for the Central Region. And although it has been many years since he has lived in the state, National Commander Clarence Hill of Post 316 in Atlantic Beach, FL is a native of Martins Ferry, OH and a delegate to Buckeye Boys State in 1968.

Please contact me with any questions or if you would like to get involved with the program. You can also contact Chris Robison, 2nd Vice Commander of District 11, via email at PilotAndAirport@Gmail.com.

For God and Country,
Scott J. Thornton Detachment Buckeye Boys State Chairman

Canines for Combat Vets

Detachment Convention will be here before we know it. We still have plenty of the Canines for Combat Vets T-Shirts for only $10.00 each (regardless of size ? we don?t charge a penny more for the plus sizes ? 1X, 2X and 3X). If you would like to order your shirt now you will have it in time to wear to convention, or if you would like, you can order your shirt now and I will bring it to you. We also still have the pins for $5.00 each if you would like one to wear on your cap and we still have the POW-MIA marble (in plastic display case) available for $5.00. Please contact me as soon as possible with your order. If you will not be able to attend Detachment Convention in May I will ship your order to you in the usual manner.

I look forward to seeing all of you at Convention!

James M. ?Butch? Badgett
Detachment of Ohio VA&R Chairman

Children’s Organ Transplant Association
Children’s Organ Transplant Association is an American Legion partner benefitting the health and well being of our nation’s children in need of organ transplants. (Res. No. 33 Children's Organ Transplant Association, NEC May 2009)

You want to help the Children’s Organ Transplant Association financially, but you just do not know what to do first. Here is an idea to help you get started giving hope and making miracles through your daily communications activities:
On your computer
· Add an inspiring quote to your email signature line. Include the COTA website address or address of a COTA campaign website.
· Example: “One person can make a difference and every person should try.” John Fitzgerald Kennedy. Help me make a difference in a transplant family’s journey. Log onto www.COTA.org and click on the Donate Now button.

USICH Summarizes Public Comment on Federal Strategic Plan
The United States Interagency Council on Homelessness (USICH) has published a summary of results from its public engagement – which has included regional stakeholder meetings, an online interactive forum, and listening sessions with federal workgroups – on the Federal Strategic Plan to Prevent and End Homelessness.
Input included a broad range of perspectives from both external and federal government stakeholders on the challenges, priorities, and strategies for ending and preventing homelessness in America.
Read the summary, titled “What We Learned,” on line.

HOMELESS VETERANSVA is allocating $39 million to fund about 2,200 new transitional housing beds through grants to local providers. The $39 million in funding is broken into two categories. About $24 million in grants are available to renovate or rehabilitate space to create about 1,000 transitional housing beds. The grants put a priority upon housing for homeless women and housing on tribal lands. A second group of grants, valued at about $15 million, is expected to fund about 1,200 new beds for homeless providers who already have suitable transitional housing. The grants will provide per diems based upon the number of homeless veterans being served in transitional housing. VA is the largest federal provider of direct assistance to the homeless, with 14,000 transitional beds in operation or development. About 107,000 veterans are homeless on a typical night. VA is committed to ending homelessness among veterans within five years.

New York Strip Steak Fry

American Legion Post 503, Shiloh, will be holding their next to the last Steak Fry of the season from 5:00 pm until ? on Saturday, April 17th.

The dinner is open to the public and the menu includes New York Strip Steak, Baked Potato, Green Beans, Tossed Salad, Rolls and Desert for $12.00.

Richard Russell
Adjutant S.A.L. Squadron 503, Shiloh

All you can eat breakfast

Halker Flege Unit 69

Sunday-April 18th

8:00 am to 11:30am

$7.00 adults $4.50 12yrs and under

All you can eat includes: Omelettes to order,potatoes,bacon, sausage,goetta,ham,biscuits,gravy and fruit

Also includes: Coffee,Milk and Juice

We will have a bake sale and all proceeds will go to Auxiliary programs

Joy Niefield

BREAKFAST BUFFET
YEAGER-BENSON MEMORIAL POST 199
10700 CAMPBELL RD.    HARRISON, OH. 45030
APRIL 18, 2010   8:00 A.M. till 1:00 P.M.
FULL BUFFET –EGGS, BACON, SAUSAGE, BISCUITS, GRAVY, PANCAKES AND MORE
$6.00 PER ADULT        12 YEARS OLD AND UNDER $4.00
Raffle Table -- Split The Pot
FOR MORE INFO: 708-1969 or 367-9180
STAY AFTER BREAKFAST FOR NASCAR RACING

CWF Dinner at the NEC

There will be a CWF dinner held at Post 500 on Saturday night during NEC. The cost will be $25.00, with $10.00 off the top going to CWF.

2010 Arthritis Walk May 1, 2010

Elizabeth, my 7-year-old niece was diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA) in both of her knees. Recently her arthritis has spread to 70% of her joints, including Uveitis, which is a side effect of JRA and has caused her vision problems. With medication and special eye drops, Elizabeth is able to function most of the time.

By supporting Team Elizabeth you are supporting the Arthritis Foundation who provide the funds for research & education to maybe one day find a cure for Elizabeth and other people with this disease.
Let's Move Together at the 2010 Arthritis Walk. Please use the link below to visit my web page and consider joining my team or making a donation to help us meet our goal.

Visit my personal web page and help me in my efforts to support Arthritis Foundation, Northeastern Ohio Chapter
Thank you for your support!

Kathleen Pawlak

Please Contact Congress Now
GI Bill Gold Medal Act Cosponsors NeededMore Info Ask your Representative to Support H.R. 4745

(April 14, 2010) On March 3, legislation was introduced that seeks to honor the author and recipients of the GI Bill with a Congressional Gold Medal for their exemplary service to the country. H.R. 4745, the Achievements of the GI Bill Gold Medal Act, was introduced by Representative Dennis Moore (KS) and currently has 44 cosponsors.

This legislation would award the Congressional Gold Medal in honor of the Greatest Generation who used provisions of the Servicemen's Readjustment Act of 1944 (commonly referred to as the ''GI Bill of Rights'') in recognition of the great contributions they made to the Nation in both their military and civilian service. The bill would also recognize the contributions of The American Legion's Past National Commander Harry W. Colmery in writing the first draft of the bill and leading grassroots efforts which led to the enactment. The American Legion has long honored Commander Colmery's exemplary service to the country and his life-long passion for America's veterans; a passion shared by members of The American Legion still today.

In 1943, the country faced an unprecedented number of servicemen and women returning from World War II to civilian life, more than 16 million soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines. During an emergency meeting in Washington, D.C. of leaders of The American Legion called to address the concerns of returning service personnel, Harry W. Colmery crafted the initial draft of the Servicemen's Readjustment Act of 1944. This pioneering legislation, signed by President Franklin Roosevelt in June 1944, helped GIs buy homes, start businesses and attend college or technical school after their return from World War II. In the decade following World War II, more than 2 million men and women went to college using the GI Bill and another 5 million received other schooling or job training.

The GI Bill of Rights has been heralded as one of the most significant pieces of legislation ever enacted by the Federal government, one that has impacted the country socially, economically and politically. That impact is still felt today by the service members returning from wars in Iraq and Afghanistan who are able to receive educational benefits due to the advocacy of Harry Colmery.

The American Legion is calling upon Congress to join with Representative Moore in support of H.R. 4745 which honors the achievements of the GI Bill and Commander Colmery with a Congressional Gold Medal. Members of The American Legion family are asked to contact their representative (Capitol Hill switchboard: 202-224-3121) and ask them to become cosponsors of H.R. 4745; if they are already cosponsors, thank them for their support.

Have You Found National Headquarters Yet?
American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters is on Facebook! Become a fan and receive updates about everything Auxiliary. See your unit name in print: When we're working on upcoming issues of Auxiliary magazine, we frequently pose questions to members seeking their feedback. Plus you can write on our wall! We love to hear from you and greatly value your opinion.

We're less than 75 people shy of having 1,000 fans. Tell your friends and fellow Auxiliary members to join today!

2010 Good Any Day Online link is now set up!

An account with Cedar Point where our Legion Family Members can get group rate on single day visits in 2010 is now set up. They pay for the tickets so no charge to the organization and a discount rate to our members (Legion/SAL). A link will be put on the Legion website.
Members can now begin purchasing discount tickets to Cedar Point and Soak City by following this company-specific link:
http://tickets.cedarpoint.com/shop/shopping_corporate_partners.cfm?corp_id=G01002266
Up to 8 tickets per credit card per day can be purchased. Tickets are valid any day during the 2010 season. Please visit www.cedarpoint.com for operating hours.
Have a wonderful summer!

Post 685 All you can eat Breakfast

Just a little reminder & invitation to all. Post 685 will be having a Spring Fling Breakfast Reverse Raffle on April 18th 2010. Please mark this date on your calendar and plan to attend. Tickets are on sale in the Canteen. This replaces the Valentine’s Day Reverse Raffle that was canceled due to poor ticket sales.

Funds go to Buckeye Girls State. This program is very important to our young ladies.

Post 685 Streetsboro

April 18th, 2010 All you can eat Breakfast of Sausage Gravy, Biscuits, eggs potato bacon casserole.

Breakfast from 10 to 11 with Raffle to follow. There will be side boards & Chinese Auction.

Please help make this a big success.

Thank you.

Kathy Pawlak

4TH ANNUAL BLESSING OF THE BIKES!
HOLLAND AMERICAN LEGION POST #646
1074 CLARION AVE. HOLLAND, OHIO
419-865-8511 WWW.POST6460H.COM

WHEN: APRIL 25th AT 12:10
ALL YOU CAN EAT BREAKFAST BUFFET WILL BE AVAILABLE FROM 9:00-NOON, $6.00 ADULTS, $5.OO SENIORS.
PANCAKES, EGGS COOKED TO ORDER, FRENCH TOAST, POTATOES, BACON, SAUSAGE, BISCUITS AND GRAVY, COFFEE, JUICE, MILK.
COME EARLY AND ENJOY THE FUN! MAKE NEW FRIENDS AND HANG OUT!
CONTACT~TOM BIXLER DIRECTOR, LEGION RIDERS 646 OH 419-297-5260
LEE ROPP MEMBERSHIP CHAIRMAN, LEGION RIDERS 646 OH 419-356-1134
BLESSINGTO BE PERFORMED BY BIKER PASTOR JIM MAJO
SPONSORED BY: AMERICAN LEGION RIDERS
POST 646 HOLLAND, OHIO

STEAK AND SHRIMP DINNER
Russell Chadwick Squadron 389 SONS OF THE AMERICAN LEGION

Saturday May 8, 2010    Serving 5:30—8:30      Dancing 9:00—12:00

Choice of Steak or Skewers of Shrimp (Including Baked Potato, Salad Bar & Roll)
$10.00 per Person Donation Skewers of Shrimp Available @ $3.00 Each For those who want Steak and Shrimp
  Music By: Close Enuff

American Legion Legacy Run Update
As of today more than 150 riders and passengers have pre-registered for the August run. Registration is $50 for each operator, and $25 for each passenger, if preregistered before August 1. Registration fees rise after that date.
Register early. Every person who registers before August 1 will receive a special 5th Anniversary Commemorative Legacy Run Coin along with the patch and mapbook material. After that date, any remaining coins will be made available to all participants for $10.00 each.
Click Here for the 2010 American Legion Legacy Run Registration Form. Please remember that riders and passengers must complete and sign separate registration forms, and that all participants should indicate if they plan to ride the entire way from Indianapolis to Milwaukee, or only part way.

DOD Identifies Navy Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a pilot who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

Lt. Miroslav Zilberman, 31, of Columbus, Ohio, died after his E-2C Hawkeye crashed into the Arabian Gulf on March 31, 2010. The recovery effort was abandoned on April 2, 2010 and his body was not recovered. Zilberman was assigned to Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 121.

For further information related to this release, contact Lt. Cmdr. Philip Rosi at 757-444-3373.

73rd Oratorical contest underway this weekend
The American Legion - April 7, 2010

Saturday marks the kick-off date for The American Legion National Oratorical Championship Contest. Sunday's finals will again appear in a live webcast.
For the past 73 years, The American Legion National Oratorical Contest has awarded the championship title to many elite students who went on to make a name for themselves, including CNN co-founder and longtime TV broadcaster, Lou Dobbs. And in a matter of three days, 53 high school students from across the country will make their debut in Indianapolis to compete in the 73rd Oratorical contest in hopes of winning the championship title.
On Saturday at 9:45 a.m. EDT, the Oratorical program will begin with the quarterfinals, followed by the semifinals. The semifinal winners will advance to the championship finals on Sunday, which will once again be aired live via the Legion's Web site.
Tune in Sunday, April 11 at 10 a.m. EDT for the live Web streaming of the Oratorical championship contest, when contestants vie for first place and an $18,000 scholarship. The live webcast will allow family and friends of the contestants, as well as other online viewers, front-row seats to the event where the overall champion will be announced.
"The 53 contestants who will be competing this weekend are all winners and outstanding representatives of today's youth," said Joseph Caouette, National Americanism Commission chairman. "Their participation in this wonderful contest has afforded them the opportunity to study and to explore one of the greatest documents of our country, the U.S. Constitution."
To see a list of the upcoming 53 Oratorical competitors, click here. And don't forget to check out the past 72 national champions by clicking here.

NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS SONS OF THE AMERICAN LEGON

April 7, 2010

MEMO TO: National Officers, Detachment Commanders & Adjutants

FROM: Brian J. O’Hearne, National Adjutant

SUBJECT: Retraction & Clarification of Article in the April National Update Newsletter

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The current new edition (April 2010) of the Sons of The American Legion National Update newsletter is in the process of being mailed to all members of the Sons of The American Legion. This edition has been printed and is presently at our National facility being tabbed, names being addressed to the newsletters, and sorted for mail purposes during mid April 2010.

Unfortunately, we have discovered an error in one of the articles that is too late to correct. It has already been printed. The article on “Veterans Assistance Day” set for May 15 contains some information that is not accurate. The paragraph reads “Something new this year is a certificate of appreciation that can be downloaded and presented to those who submit a report on their successful day of helping our veterans. Also it mentions, a new SAL challenge coin being minted to show appreciation to those who make this program a success”.

The paragraph in page 3 in reference to a new certificate has not been clarified through proper channels as to what form and to who certificates are given. This process will be reviewed during the spring meetings and more information will follow. Also, there is no resolution and/or approval for the issuance of any coins.

We sincerely apologize for this error in review of the newsletter prior to printing. We hope to do better in the future. Veterans assistance day is very important to Sons members and for those veterans we serve. We want to emphasis the need to promote this program to the maximum in all squadrons. Again, we ask your fullest support for “Veterans Assistance Day”.

At your convenience, please advise your squadrons of this error in this issue and clarification from the Sons Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation commission will be forthcoming after the spring meetings.

Your attention to this is most appreciated.

SUBJECT: Passing of Mr. Richard J. Kepler (AZ) Past National Commander (1978-1979) It is with deep regret that I inform you of the passing of Mr. Richard J. Kepler Past National Commander, Sons of The American Legion from the Detachment of Arizona. Mr. Richard Kepler passed away on March 31, 2010 in Prescott, Arizona. A memorial service will be held on April 18, 2010 at the Theater Building 15, Bob Stump VAMC, 500 N Highway 89, Prescott, Arizona. Richard is survived by three (3) sons, Mark from England, Martin from California, and Chris from Tennessee. Cards and letters can be sent to Richard Kepler’s family at 2791 Queen St, Prescott Valley, AZ 86314. Richard was a member of Squadron 78, Humboldt, Arizona. He had served in numerous positions within the American Legion family and was a Past National Commander (1978-1979) of the Sons of The American Legion. Richard was also the Chairman of the SAL National Committee’s on Committee’s. Richard was a dual member and had served as a Post Commander and Adjutant, District Commander, Department Chaplain and Department Judge Advocate in Arizona as well as other positions in The American Legion. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.

NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS SONS OF THE AMERICAN LEGION

Brian J. O’Hearne, National Adjutant

DETACHMENT CONVENTION HOUSING DEADLINE

The housing reservation deadline for detachment convention is Monday April 12th. As of this date there are a number of Squads that normally attend who have not submitted a housing request.

Mike

1ST VICE COMMANDER

--Membership , Membership, It seems all I talk about is membership. How true this is. What I am asking lets try really hard to make 100 % .. Ohio is the best in donations and lets make membership number one as well. Look at the Central , the top three 10,000 , 18,000 and 3,000 members. We have four district that have over 18,000 members. Lets show them who can be number one.

I would like to take this time and say Thank you to all of you for doing a great job. Membership is tuff and we all know that.

I am hoping to see you all at Convention in May. Maybe sooner. I still have some open dates to visit so please call or e-mail me if you wish for me to come. Remember one thing GOD BLESS AMERICAN the LAND of the FREE. PLEASE SAY A PRAY FOR OUR TROOPS AND THEIR FAMILIES.

Detachment Convention Bids

Detachment convention is coming soon. If you are planning to submit a bid for the 2012 convention do you have your package in order. Now is the time to get your bid finished and ready for presentation. I look forward to another batch of great bids from all over the state of Ohio.

The membership cut off date for National convention delegate selection will be Friday April 16 to determine district delegate strength. Membership must be in headquarters prior to that date for Mike and his staff to generate the weekly report. District officers, myself included need to get out to their squadrons and get the membership turned in.

If you have any questions or need any help feel free to contact me at the email address below.

Dan Sagraves
Convention and Delegate Screening
dsagraves@woh.rr.com

Canines for Combat Vets
Gentlemen, when you send a check to myself or to Detachment Headquarters and the money you are sending is intended to go to the Canines for Combat Vets program it is very important that you refer to Canines (or Dog) somewhere on the check. If you simply note VA & R on the check but with no reference to Canines, the money will not go towards this program. Thank you again for your continued support of Canines for Combat Vets.

James M. "Butch" Badgett
VA & R Chairperson

DOD Identifies Marine Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

Lance Cpl. Randy M. Heck, 20, of Steubenville, Ohio, died March 28 from a non-hostile incident in Djibouti, Africa. He was assigned to 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.

This incident is under investigation.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The American Legion’s Operation Comfort Warriors finishes first,
wins $250K in Pepsi Cola’s Refresh Everything Project
WASHINGTON (March 22, 2010) – The people voted and the troops won. PepsiCo has officially announced that The American Legion’s Operation Comfort Warriors will be awarded a $250,000 grant from the soft drink giant after finishing first in voting during February’s Refresh Everything Project.
Internet voters were able to choose which of 729 competing charities would receive grants of $5,000, $25,000, $50,000 or $250,000. The top three finishers in the $250,000 category are receiving the grants.
“There are so many people to thank, I don’t know where to begin,” said American Legion National Commander Clarence E. Hill. “First, I want to thank Pepsi and its charitable Global Giving Foundation. Then I want to thank The American Legion members, American Legion Auxiliary, Sons of the American Legion members and Legion Riders who supported us by spreading the word and voting. In fact, I want to thank everybody who voted for Operation Comfort Warriors. This was truly a national grassroots effort. Most of all, I want to thank our troops, who go into harm’s way for us every day. It is their sacrifice that makes it possible for us to enjoy the freedoms we all share.”
Since December 2008, the American Legion family has raised funds for Operation Comfort Warriors, a program dedicated to meeting the needs of wounded military personnel, providing them with comfort items not usually supplied by the government. OCW ensures that patients at U.S. military hospitals and warrior transition units are given items like sweat suits, DVDs, puzzles, electronic devices, books, calling cards and more. The American Legion pays all administrative costs for the program, meaning 100 percent of the donations, including the grant money, will go directly to purchasing items for the troops.
The American Legion, a wartime veterans organization, was founded in 1919 on the four pillars of a strong national security, veterans affairs, Americanism, and youth programs. Legionnaires work for the betterment of their communities through more than 14,000 posts across the nation. For more on Operation Comfort Warriors, visit www.legion.org/ocw .

Children & YouthApril Is Children & Youth Month,” what better way to show your support than to sponsor an event to benefit local sick and injured children? Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals have joined with the Legion to provide CMN Balloon Icon kits to help raise money to benefit your local children’s hospital.Each kit includes:200 6-inch generic balloons (CMN logo) 1 poster1 goal chart 1 campaign smart sheet1 market contact sheet 1 Children’s Miracle Network DVD1 flyer with commander message 1 Guidebook1 envelope with sticker The goal is simple: Sell all 200 balloons and raise $200 for local ill and injured children.How do I order a balloon campaign kit?To order go to http://www.miracleballoons.org and enter promotion code 408165.Questions contact Bob Caudell rcaudell@legion.org or 317-630-1202.

HOMELESS VETERANS

SUMMIT COUNTY STAND DOWN FOR HOMELESS VETERANS COMMITTEE MEETING
APRIL 5, 2010 2PM, MONDAY,
Firestone VFW Post 3383, 690 West Waterloo Rd, Akron OH 44314

District 14 SAL NEWS-
Detachment headquarters just released the membership totals thru March 31,2010. District 14 is in 3rd place with just under 93% of quota, we need 78 cards to meet our quota. We have 4 Squadrons that have already met this goal for 2010. They are 175, 209, 449, & 611. Thank You for your good work! We also have several squadrons which a just a few away from reaching this goal. Sqd. 19 needs 2 more, 281 requires 4, 331 needs to find 7 more, 5 more and 566 will be there, ONE at 674 and you'll be at quota, 685 is at 9, and 3 are needed at 801. Start making phone calls or send out letters to those on your delinquent list. Ask some of those legionnaires if they have a son or grandson who would be interested. With a little work we can be the first district in Ohio to meet quota. I think we can achieve this by the next time we meet on Sunday, April 25, 2010 at the Ravenna Post. The gavel will drop at 2 PM. Please bring any membership cards and those blue CWF raffle tickets with you.

Ken

5th District Sons Pizza and Bingo party

The 5th District Sons of The American Legion is having their annual Pizza and Bingo party at the Ohio Veteran's Home, in Sandusky this Saturday. We will be there from 1:30 to 3:30. It will be held in the activities hall.
Come join us for a good time.

Rob Brewer

Vets Health Care Bill Passes Senate
Week of March 29, 2010
The U.S. Senate recently passed the Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act of 2009. The legislation would strengthen support for caregivers and attendants of veterans and would help ensure veterans in need of institutional care have the choice of receiving care from a family member at home. This bill would provide caregivers of veterans with health care, counseling, support, and a stipend. It also expands services in rural areas and ensures that veterans who are catastrophically disabled or who need emergency care in the community are not inappropriately charged for those services. The bill moves on to the House of Representatives.

Whitehouse Post 384

I have been trying for months to set up something that would not only benefit the Legionnaires at my post, but the Legionnaires of the Great State of Ohio as well. This site not only allows you to view what’s going on at Whitehouse Post 384 but has the capabilities to begin your own Post Community as well. This web page also allows our post to add the Sons, Auxiliary, and the Legion Riders to its offerings thereby, cementing our State Commander’s wishes in regards to the Legion Family. In order for us to capitalize on the age group of our new veterans and those who are computer savvy we needed a place to go that is user friendly and contains just about everything you want to know that’s going on in your community, State, and National. The web administrator, Steve Rieger, is an outstanding resource to get your post online. The one big thing that this will do, is increase MEMBERSHIP and hopefully participation within all our posts.
I will be maintaining Whitehouse’s Post information, please take a look at our post’s page and become a member of what will be a great year reaching out to all who want to do their very best to support our Legion and its programs. God Bless and enjoy the new age my friends.

AMERICAN LEGION POST 384 BAND NIGHT
• April 2nd and 23rd 2010
6910 Providence Street
Whitehouse, Ohio 43571
• Benefits Americanism Programs as well as Children and Youth outreaches.
• 7 PM – 11 PM

Pancake Breakfast

Good News its never to early to start thinking about our Disabled and Aging Veterans and their needs at Christmas Time.
The Portsmouth Motor Cycle Club is hosting a fund raiser at Applebee's Restaurant in New Boston this Saturday Morning April 3rd for our Veterans who reside in Nursing and Foster homes in Scioto County and South Shore Kentucky.

Applebee's Restaurant

St RT 52 East New Boston, Ohio
April 3rd 8:00AM till high noon
$5.00 person eat in or take out

The Portsmouth Motor Cycle Club. The oldest continuously functioning Motor Cycle Club in North America and quite possibly in the world will be on hand to sell tickets and serve as your host at Applebee's Restaurant. Last year at about this same time the Club hosted their pancake breakfast at Applebee's. At the conclusion of the fund raiser they immediately donated $2,500.00 to the Nursing Home Veterans Christmas Program at the American Legion.

What a Great Bunch to have Brunch with Help out buy a ticket-eat pancakes
Remember our Disabled Veterans they gave when they could

Saturday April 3rd 8:00AM till noon

SadMan the FireMan

VA Publishes Proposed Agent Orange Presumption Regulation

On March 25, 2010, VA published a proposed regulation in the Federal Register as part of the process to implement the Secretary’s decision to add three diseases (Parkinson’s disease, ischemic heart disease, and B cell leukemia) to the list of presumptive conditions related to Agent Orange/herbicide exposure. The Secretary determined that there is good cause to limit the public comment period, which is normally 60 days, to 30 days for this proposed rule. Written comments must be received by VA on or before April 26, 2010. A final regulation will be published in the Federal Register after VA reviews all public comments received during the comment period.

The final regulation will affect a large number of Vietnam veterans, estimated to be at least 200,000 veterans. This is an important step forward in ensuring that Vietnam veterans are justly compensated for the adverse effects suffered by exposure to Agent Orange during their service to our country. As discussed in previous bulletins, it is important that service officers file presumptive claims now for these conditions without waiting for the completion of the regulation process. Filing these claims prior to the publication of the final regulation is important for effective purposes and it also allows VA to start the claims development process (conducting VA examinations, requesting supporting evidence, etc.) to allow for timely adjudication once the final regulation has been published.
Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation (VA&R) staff are in the process of reviewing the proposed regulation for public comment. A more detailed VA&R Bulletin containing effective date and other information will be issued following the publication of the final regulation. In the
meantime, please direct questions or concerns to Ian de Planque, Assistant Director for Claims Service, VA&R, at ideplanque@legion.org or (202) 263-5762.

BARRY A. SEARLE, Director
National Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission

Camp is just around the corner
Applications are now being accepted from children with neuromuscular diseases to attend one of more than 90 MDA summer camp sessions in the United States and Puerto Rico. Kids who have attended camp — at no cost to their families — often describe it as “the best week of the year.” Throughout the week, campers enjoy a host of activities from arts and crafts and horseback riding to adaptive sports, spirit competitions, canoeing and swimming. Trained volunteer counselors assist each child with all of his or her daily activities.

All youngsters ages 6 to 17 who are registered for services with MDA can apply for camp. Selections are first come, first served. Families may pick up the forms at their local MDA office. More information is available on MDA's Web site or through local MDA health care service coordinators.

Volunteer counselors, especially male camp counselors ages 16 and older, are being actively sought for the 2010 season.

From 2nd Vice Steve Honigfort
Just returned from the 11th District Conference this past weekend, which was attended by Detachment Commander Dave Young, 1st Vice Rex Buchs, Myself, and Detachment Chaplain Gary Lang. We were well taken care of by the folks in Zanesville, and I would like to thank them for a good time. It is enjoyable to get out and see
other SAL members, their ideas, and their Post homes. So if you have an event going on , please let me know about it.
         Also my year as 2nd Vice is rounding the last bend and also so is my fundraiser. I hope all tickets have gotten out to all Squadrons in your Districts and are being sold. To Date I have only 500-600 tickets turned in out of 6000 , so please return SOLD tickets to me as soon as they are sold so I can get a count for Detachment Convention. I have mailed many tickets out to Squadrons and can send more if you need them. Guys please try to sell as I know there are buyers out there, you just have to ask. Make sure checks are made out to me or SAL Detachment of Ohio Raffle. This is a worthwhile cause and if you sell the First ticket drawn out you could win $200.00.
        Squadron 63 in Ottawa is also having their Special Olympics Fundraiser on April 10th and it gets under way at 12:00 Noon at Ottawa Highland Lanes and will go till around 5:00 pm, then they will have a mixer at the Ottawa Eagles Hall in Downtown starting at 7:00 pm, which is also a great time. Food and drinks are available all day with BBQ chicken dinners prepared by Squadron 63 being sold at the Bowling Alley from 11:00 am - 1:00 pm or until sold out. Also Squadron 63 will have the Elvis Presley Jr. Show, Yea you read it, Elvis JR, on April 17th and tickets are still available for $15.00 Ea. . He sounds like his dad and puts on a very good show.
       If you need tickets or info on either fundraiser contact me and I'll hook you up.

Thank You,
For God and Country,
Steve Honigfort
Sons Of the American Legion
Detachment of Ohio
2nd Vice Commander

Mail Tickets and monies to:
11534 TR 205
Kenton, Ohio 43326

Ph 419-674-1558
E-mail: shonigfort@yahoo.com

Kroger Community Rewards

I have just been notified by the Kroger Community Rewards Program that we will be receiving a check for over $1300.00 for this past quarter for the Canines For Combat Vets project. This brings our total over the last two quarters to over $2200.00. Thanks again to all those who have designated our program as the recipient of the Rewards given for the dollars you spend at Krogers using your Kroger Plus Card.

James M. "Butch" Badgett
VA & R Chairperson

DOD Identifies Marine Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

Gunnery Sgt. Robert L. Gilbert II, 28, of Richfield, Ohio, died March 16 of wounds sustained March 8 while supporting combat operations in Badghis province, Afghanistan. He was assigned to 2nd Marine Special Operations Battalion, Marine Special Operations Regiment, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command, Camp Lejeune, N.C.

For additional background information on this Marine, news media representatives may contact the Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command public affairs office at 910-440-0770.

11th District

The 11th District held it's Spring Conference on Sunday March 14th at Zanesville Post 29. The following were elected to serve as officers for 2010-2011:

Commander - David Dilts
1st Vice Commander - William Berg
2nd Vice Commander - John Ray Schlotterbeck III
Chaplain - Todd Gibson
Finance Officer - Charleton Brown

The officers were installed by Detachment Commander Dave Young. Detachment 1st Vice Commander Rex Buchs, Detachment 2nd Vice Commander Steve Honigfort and Detachment Chaplain Gary Lang were also in
attendance and each offered words of encouragement to those in attendance.

Due to a conflict with the Detachment Convention, the 11th District Summer Conference (S.A.L. only) has been changed to Saturday June 12 at Post 389 Beverly.

Charleton Brown
Adjutant, 11th District S.A.L.

13 Th Dist. SAL

We will be having our Spring Conf. at Squadron 627 in Newburgh Hts on April18,2010 at 11 am coffee & donuts at 10am, We would like to have a Officer Or Canidate for state office come and address us. I can be reached at my cell 440-554-8388 Thanks Dale Anderson II 13 Th Dist. SAL Commander

Air Force Pilot MIA From Vietnam War is Identified

The Department of Defense announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing in action from the Vietnam War, have been identified and will be returned to his family for burial with full military honors.

Air Force Maj. Curtis Daniel Miller of Palacios, Texas, will be buried on March 29 in the Dallas-Ft. Worth National Cemetery. Miller was part of a 14-man aircrew, all of which are now accounted-for. Remains that could not be individually identified are included in a group that will be buried together in Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va.

On March 29, 1972, 14 men were aboard an AC-130A Spectre gunship that took off from Ubon Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, on an armed reconnaissance mission over southern Laos. The aircraft was struck by an enemy surface-to-air missile and crashed. Search and rescue efforts were stopped after a few days due to heavy enemy activity in the area.

AL Auxiliary Unit 214 in Willoughby is having a Ham Raffle on April 27, 2010 starting at 4:30 p.m. The Legion will be having side boards. The Auxiliary will also be selling subs and soup and at 7:00 p.m. Dan Elish, DJ/Karaoke will be there to entertain. It promises to be a fun day and night.

AL Post 214 Family, Willoughby, is sponsoring a food drive for homeless veterans during the month of March. All non-perishable foods can be brought to the Post and will be taken in early April to the Veterans Resource Center for Homeless Veterans on E. 152nd St. in Cleveland. New underwear and socks are also still being accepted. Cash donations are welcome and we will do the shopping. You can contact Martha Setlock, Aux. President at 440-951-2227 for more information.

National VA Homeless Resource Guide Available
Download in .pdf or .doc format
The “National VA Homeless Resource Guide” is now available on VA’s Homeless Veterans site. The guide contains a list of homeless programs/services with points of contact for each VA medical center. The list is organized by VISN, or Veterans Integrated Service Network.
This is a great resource for finding local contacts, including:
Homeless coordinators
HUD/VASH coordinators
Grant and Per Diem liaisons
VBA homeless benefit managers
Women veterans coordinators
OEF/OIF coordinators

To view the guide in Microsoft Word, click here.

To view the guide as a PDF, click here.

92^nd National Convention of The American Legion

Another option for consideration while our Comrades are attending the 92^nd National Convention of The American Legion. Contact information is contained below. Thank you.

I have received information through the Milwaukee Chamber of Commerce that you are hosting the National Convention for the American Legion August 26th through Sept. 2nd. If you are looking for an off site location for a day trip or an evening dinner, we are located 45 minutes from downtown Milwaukee and can offer your group anything from Public Tours during the day to your own Private Charter day or evening.
You can go to our website at www.cruiselakegeneva.com for further information on the Public Tours. Right now we are offering special incentives on the private charters and have discounts for groups 10 or more for public tours

Auxiliary Unit 69

will be hosting a:

Beef Tip and Noodles Dinner

Benefits American & Government Trip to Washington DC

Includes: Beef Tip and Noodles, Veggies, Rolls/Butter and Dessert

When: Saturday, March 20th

Where: 9000 Reading Road Reading, OH 45215

Time: 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm

Price: $7.00 adults, $4.50 12 years and under

Auxiliary Unit 69

Children and Youth Program

Easter Egg Hunt

When: Saturday, April 3rd

Where: 9000 Reading Road Reading, OH 45215

Time: 2:00 pm to 4:00pm

12years and under please

Joy Niefield
Accounting Supervisor
BRG Realty Group,LLC
(513) 936-5960 ex 108
(513) 936-4150 (Fax)

Write a Glowing Review about the American Legion Auxiliary - Deadline March 31!
Nonprofit rating giant Guidestar and organizational effectiveness leader GreatNonprofits, in partnership with the Silver Star Families of America and the Coalition for Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans, are collecting news from YOU about great nonprofits serving the many needs of our veterans in today's world.

You can share your positive experiences about how the American Legion Auxiliary is outstanding and deserving of an excellent rating by Guidestar. Your participation in this campaign helps identify and recognize the top-rated veterans nonprofits. Click here to write a glowing review about the national American Legion Auxiliary. Hurry - the campaign ends March 31.

American Legion National Commander praises 9^th Circuit Pledge ruling

INDIANAPOLIS (March 12, 2010) – “A great victory for common sense,” was how The American Legion National Commander Clarence E. Hill characterized yesterday’s ruling by the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals that the phrase “under God” in the Pledge of Allegiance is constitutional.

In a separate ruling yesterday, the Court also upheld the use of the national motto “In God We Trust” on coins and currency.

“The American Legion was very critical, in fact outraged, when the same Court ruled in 2002 that the Pledge was unconstitutional because of a phrase that has existed in the Pledge since 1954,” Hill said. “But it is time to give credit where it is due. The Ninth Circuit corrected its earlier mistake and now there is absolutely no reason why schools across the nation should not lead their students in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance every day.”

The latest ruling answers the call of a resolution unanimously passed by delegates at The American Legion’s 90^th National Convention in 2008 which stated, “That The American Legion reiterate its continuing support for the Pledge of Allegiance in its current form, voicing opposition to any and all attempts to revise it beyond the version approved by Congress in 1954...”

The California atheist who filed the complaint said he would appeal the ruling, a move that would once again put him at odds with The American Legion, which has filed numerous “friend of the court” briefs in support of the Pledge.

“While this was an important victory in protecting American values, the Pledge isn’t the only great American institution under attack,” Hill said. “Since 1989 it has been legal to desecrate the Flag of the United States. The American Legion calls on Congress to pass a constitutional amendment that will allow Congress to protect the flag from desecration. Now that the Pledge is legally protected, let’s show Old Glory the same respect.”

Hill also compared attacks on the Pledge to legal attacks being waged by the ACLU and other groups against veterans memorials that they deem “religious.”

“During this session the U.S. Supreme Court heard a case dealing with the constitutionality of a cross in the Mojave desert, which was erected as a war memorial,” Hill said. “We hope that the U.S. Supreme Court rules that these are symbols of patriotism and not the establishment of a state religion. The vast majority of the American people are not offended by references to God. There is no reason why our legal system should be.”

With a current membership of 2.5-million wartime veterans, The American Legion was founded in 1919 on the four pillars of a strong national security, veterans affairs, Americanism, and youth programs. Legionnaires work for the betterment of their communities through more than 14,000 posts across the nation.

2010’s SPRING CAN DRIVE

AMERICAN LEGION POST 384 6910 Providence Street WHITEHOUSE, OHIO
Please bring all your aluminum cans for recycling to the post.
All proceeds are to benefit the American Legion programs and Charities.
Collection will be from 9 am to 11 am each and every Saturday.
To Learn More Contact: Paul Smith (419) 661-2479 or The Post at (419) 877-5171

ALL YOU CAN EAT BUFFET

YEAGER-BENSON MEMORIAL POST 199
10700 CAMPBELL RD.
HARRISON, OH. 45030

MARCH 21, 2010 8:00 A.M. till 1:00 P.M.

FULL BUFFET –EGGS, BACON, SAUSAGE, BISCUITS, GRAVY, PANCAKES AND MORE

$6.00 PER ADULT 12 YEARS OLD AND UNDER $4.00

Raffle Table -- Split The Pot
FOR MORE INFO: 708-1969 or 367-9180

STAY AFTER BREAKFAST FOR NASCAR RACING

DETACHMENT ADJUTANT'S NOTES

SQUADRON & DISTRICT OFFICER ELECTIONS -- It’s time to be thinking about who will lead your squadrons, districts and the detachment for the year 2010-2011. Please remember that your new squadron and district officers are supposed to be elected and certified to Detachment Headquarters by May 1st. Certification forms have been mailed to your Squadron Adjutant, or they are available from the detachment website.

CONSOLIDATED SQUADRON REPORTS -- Along with the 2011 Officer Certification Forms, your Squadron Adjutant should have received your 2010 Consolidated Squadron Report Form from HQ. This is the form you need to use to document all your activities, programs, donations, etc. for the 2009-2010 membership year. Please take a few minutes to tally your hours and monies involved in support of Sons of The American Legion programs and record them on the CSR form in the appropriate sections.

District Adjutants should also file a report for their district’s activities independent of the squadrons in their boundaries. Contact Mike Wiswell at HQ if you haven’t received a blank report.

Not everyone will have information for every item – that would be a truly remarkable distinction – so please report what you have done, whether it’s a little or a lot. At a minimum, fill in the squadron details at the top and send it to HQ so we know you at least looked at it, please? Ohio’s reporting rate has been improving over the last couple of years, but we still have a long way to go.

I would suggest that you use the period from the end of one state convention to the next as your dates of inclusion and file it by the convention. Note that if your squadron wishes to be considered for the Commander’s Program Award, your report and all donations must be received at Detachment HQ one month prior – by April 14th.

2010 DETACHMENT CONVENTION – MAY 14-16 -- All Squadrons should have received their convention packets by this time. Please contact Mike Wiswell if yours hasn’t arrived. We will be at the Holiday Inn French Quarter in Perrysburg, hosted by District 1 and Holland Squadron 646.

    REGISTRATION DEADLINES AT HQ (not postmarks!)
-          Housing: April 12th
-          Delegates: May 7th

Anyone wishing to be selected as a delegate to the National Convention in Milwaukee should be in attendance at the Detachment Convention.

2010 DETACHMENT CONVENTION YEARBOOK -- The yearbook for the 47th Detachment Convention in Perrysburg will feature advertising spaces with proceeds to benefit the Child Welfare Foundation.

The pricing schedule based on 8 ½ x 11 pages is:

1st $500+ donation gets the outside back cover in color
1st $300+ donation gets the inside front cover in color
1st $200+ donation gets the inside back cover in color
All $150+ donations get a full page in black & white
All $100 donations get a ½-page in black & white
All $50 donations get a ¼-page in black & white
All $30 donations get a business-card size ad in b/w
We would like to have a page from each district to showcase your officers, squadrons and events. The deadline for all submissions is April 14th. Please let me know if you have any questions about submitting an ad.

For God and Country,
Scott J. Thornton
ScottJ.Thornton@Gmail.com
Detachment Adjutant

AMERICAN LEGION BUCKEYE BOYS STATE REPORT
The candidate selection process for the 2010 session of Buckeye Boys State should be just about complete by now. I would like to extend a word of thanks to any and all Sons of The American Legion members who had a hand in identifying the young men who will be named as delegates to this year’s program.

All 2010 Buckeye Boys State Citizenship Applications must be submitted to Department Headquarters by April 1st. I have received word from Buckeye Boys State Director Jerry White that Posts 63, 178 and 389 have taken advantage of the Detachment’s sponsorship of a delegate in honor of Steve Honigfort, Dave Young and Gary Lang, respectively. Rex Buchs has since informed me that his Post (336) is also. This is a terrific opportunity for four young men to attend Boys State thanks to the SAL of Ohio.

The Spring Meeting of the Board of Trustees is scheduled for Saturday, April 17th at Department Headquarters. This meeting will finalize the plans for the June session at Bowling Green State University which will run from the 12th to the 20th.

Please contact me with any questions or if you would like to get involved with the program. You can also contact Chris Robison, 2nd Vice Commander of District 11, via email at PilotAndAirport@Gmail.com. Chris will be succeeding me as Detachment Buckeye Boys State Chairman following the convention in Perrysburg and I will continue as a consultant to the program.

For God and Country,
Scott J. Thornton
Detachment Buckeye Boys State Chairman

PNC RICHARD KEPLER
Past National Commander Richard Kepler Son's have asked for any pictures of Richard that you might have of him to please mail or email them to Sheila Galloway.

Email: Sheila.Galloway@azlegion.org
or
Department of Arizona
4701 N. 19th Ave Suite 200
Phoenix, AZ. 85015-3727

Thankyou
Jeff Frain
National VA&R Vice- Chairman
Sons of The American Legion
Email: altnecaz@cox.net
Ph. 480-620-3216

HOMELESS VETERANS
VA Targets $39 Million for Homeless Veterans Women, Tribal Services Are Special Priorities
WASHINGTON (March 11, 2010) - The Department of Veterans Affairs is allocating $39 million to fund about 2,200 new transitional housing beds through grants to local providers.

"VA is committed to ending the cycle of homelessness among Veterans," said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. "We will use every tool at our disposal - health care, education, jobs, safe housing - to ensure our Veterans are restored to lives with dignity, purpose and safety."

The $39 million in funding is broken into two categories. About $24 million in grants are available to renovate or rehabilitate space to create about 1,000 transitional housing beds. The grants put a priority upon housing for homeless women and housing on tribal lands.

A second group of grants, valued at about $15 million, is expected to fund about 1,200 new beds for homeless providers who already have suitable transitional housing. The grants will provide per diems based upon the number of homeless Veterans being served in transitional housing.

VA is the largest federal provider of direct assistance to the homeless, with 14,000 transitional beds in operation or development. About 107,000 Veterans are homeless on a typical night. Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki has committed the department to ending homelessness among Veterans within five years.

For more information, visit VA's Web page for the grant and per diem program at www.va.gov/homeless or contact VA's program office at 1-877-332-0334, or e-mail VA at homelessvets@va.gov.

Sqd 194
Texas Hold'em Tournament March 13th, 2010
Post 194 Mason, Ohio
$50.00 Buy in, optional $50.00 Re-buy & $50.00 Add on
Registration 12:00 PM - Play begins 1:00 PM
All proceeds go to the Child Welfare Foundation in the name of Pat Shea
MARK   SOWDERS <msowders62@embarqmail.com> 513-490-5946

14th District American Legion Auxiliary Spring ROUNDTABLE
Saturday, March 20, 2010 At Charles Faust Post #281 1601 Front Street Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221
Registration – 9:00 a.m. Meeting – 10:00 a.m.
Luncheon - $6.00 Reservations by March 13 to June Douglas
2249 9th Street Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221 330-928-1895
This District Round Table is to update and instruct members on the subject of the 2010 American Legion Auxiliary programs regarding the year-end green reports. Members are urged to attend.

Legion Riders
American Legion Riders Post 678 will be holding their 2nd annual Pig Roast on May 23rd at Willowick/Eastlake Post 678 from 1pm till 6pm. Cost is $20.00 per person and includes Dinner and open bar. There will be a Chinese Auction, side boards, and other raffles. Proceeds to benefit the American Legion Legacy Fund.

For ticket info contact Bob Durda at 440-477-4635 or Don Simonitis at 440-342-0706.

14TH DISTRICT AMERICAN LEGION MEETINGS
All REGULAR meetings are on the SECOND (2nd) TUESDAY OF THE MONTH at 7:00 p.m. at Charles Faust Post #281 in Cuyahoga Falls.
Following are the special meetings dates. Please mark them on your calendars and attend to support your officers:
March 14: SPRING CONFERENCE – 1:30 p.m., Ravenna #331
April 13: Charles Faust Post 281 – 7:00 p.m.
May 30: SUMMER CONVENTION – 1:30 p.m., Streetsboro #685

Harrison Veterans Color Guard
It is time for Football Mania 2010. The tickets are available as of now, for the same low donation of $20.00. For more information about Harrison Veterans Color Guard or to purchase a Football Mania Sweepstakes Ticket, contact Al Buxton, 513-481-7336/225-1489 or Gary Hembree, 513-367-4025/312-4887.
Thank you for helping!
On behalf of the entire Harrison Veterans Color Guard, we would like to thank you for all the time and effort in helping us with this fundraiser and making it a success.
For God and Country,
Al Buxton, Color Guard Chairman
Gary Hembree, Post Commander

Milwaukee Convention Tour Opportunities
You will find information about Tour Opportunities in Milwaukee during convention on our website at http://www.legion.org/convention/ under Convention Resources.

Thank you.
Kind Regards,

Bridget A. Williams
Deputy Director
National Convention & Meetings
The American Legion National Headquarters

American Legion Riders Post 646
The American Legion Riders Post 646 OH is selling tickets for;
Match your number with the Ohio Lottery daily pick 3 evening drawing throughout the month of April 2010 and win $50.00 Sunday through Friday $100.00 Saturday based on ticket sales of 400. Otherwise default to a 50/50 $5.00 per ticket. Proceeds benefit Legion charities and programs.
Contact Tom Bixler P.O. Box 484 Holland, OH 43528 419-868-3916
Or
Deanna Walter P.O. Box 951 Holland, OH 43528 419-868-3916
Or any other ALR member from Post 646 OH
www.post646oh.com

Fisher's House
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama plans to donate the $1.4 milllion from his Nobel Peace Prize to helping students, veterans' families and survivors of Haiti's earthquake, among others, drawing attention to organizations he said "do extraordinary work."
Obama is giving a total of $750,000 to six groups that help kids go to college. Fisher's House, which provides housing for families with loved ones at Veterans Administration hospitals, will receive $250,000, the White House said Thursday. And the Bush-Clinton Haiti Fund, for which two former presidents are raising money to rebuild earthquake-ravaged Haiti, will receive $200,000.
The rest of the money will go to an array of other groups.

Summer Employment Initiative
On March 8th, the FAA will advertise vacancy announcements for students seeking summer employment.
The Summer Employment Initiative is designed to attract talented students to the workforce for summer employment opportunities into entry-level positions and provide positive work and developmental experience.
    Position Openings:

    *    Miscellaneous Clerk and Assistant, FV-303-C
    *    Management Assistant, FV-344-D
    *    Management and Program Analyst, FV-343-F
    *    Engineering Technician, FV-802-F

    Duty locations: FAA Headquarters, all regions, and centers and some field locations.
    Note: Specific FAA duty locations will be posted on vacancy announcement.
    FAA regions and centers (field locations) will post separate vacancy announcements.
    Eligibility: Applicant must be a student who meets all the following requirements:

    *    United States Citizen
    *    Enrolled or accepted in a half-time or full-time course schedule;
    *    Age 16 or older (by the closing date of the announcement); and
    *    Possess a grade point average of 2.0 or above on a scale of 4.0.

    Appointment Type: Temporary appointment
    Duration: Not to exceed 6 months (April through September)
    Benefits: Students can earn sick and annual leave depending on length of appointment
    Work Schedules: Full-Time or Part-Time
    Minimum Qualifications: A "student" is defined as a student enrolled in a high school, vocational and technical school, undergraduate program (associate or baccalaureate degree) or graduate program. Students must be enrolled in or accepted for enrollment as a degree-seeking student (diploma, certificate, etc.). Must be at least the minimum age required by Federal, state, or local laws and standards governing the employment of minors. Students must be taking at least half-time course load, as defined by their academic institution; and must maintain a 2.0 grade point average on a scholastic average scale of 4.0.

    How to Apply: FAA has an online employment application system called ASAP. All students must apply through the ASAP online system.

    *    Go to Career Opportunities <http://jobsearch.usajobs..gov/a9TD03.asp>
    *    Type the following words "Summer", in the Keyword Search
        Open an ASAP <https://jobs02.faa.gov/asap/> account and apply online.
    *    If you have additional questions contact the local Human Resource Management office <http://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/headquarters_offices/ahr/contact_us/> ..

    Conditions of Employment: Students who have received a Tentative Job Offer for an FAA Summer position,
                        must provide an official transcript at least two weeks prior to entrance-on-duty date (reporting date).

Bob White, LegionBirdMan
Commander,13th District

SAL Past National Commander

Richard Kepler is in the Bob Stump VAMC in Prescott, Az. Room 421. He has been diagnosed with cancer which has spread all over his boby and is considered terminal. He will probably be transferred to the Hospice wing in two to three weeks. I'm sure he would appreciate prayers, cards etc. from his friends all over the SAL.

Northern Arizona VA Health Care System
500 Hwy 89 N
Prescott, AZ 86313
Room 2019
800-949-1005

Benefit for Kara Kovatch
Palmer-Roberts American Legion Family is having a benefit for Kara Kovatch, a 9-year old girl with brain cancer, on March 13, 2010. It is a spaghetti dinner from 1:00 -6:00 p.m. and the cost is $10.00 per person. Donations can also be made at any Key Bank in Kara's name. There will be a basket of booze, wine and other items raffled at 5:00 p.m.. Tickets for that are 3 for $5.00 and are available at the Post, 4304 Center Street, Willoughby. There will also be a 50-50 raffle. The SON's started this because one of the officer's granddaughter is a friend and classmate of Kara's.

AMERICAN LEGION SUMMIT COUNTY COUNCIL
AMERICAN LEGION FAMILY ONCE AGAIN IT IS TIME FOR OUR ANNUAL STAND DOWN FOR HOMELESS AND UNEMPLOYED VETERANS. LAST YEAR WE SERVED 383 FELLOW VETERANS . THIS YEAR, WITH THE ECONOMY IN THE WORST SHAPE IN YEARS, WE ARE EXPECTING MANY MORE WHO WILL NEED OUR HELP.
BECAUSE OF THE EXTRA VOLUME OF VETERANS WE ARE EXPECTING, WE ARE ASKING THAT YOUR POSTS BEGIN SENDING IN DONATIONS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. WE NEED TO START ORDERING ITEMS WE GIVE AS THEY COME FROM FEDERATED WHOLESALE IN GEORGIA AND MUST BE ORDERED QUITE A WHILE IN ADVANCE. PLEASE KNOW THAT YOU MAY USE YOUR CHARITY ACCOUNT MONEY FROM TICKET SALES TO MAKE DONATIONS.
LAST YEAR OUR LEGION POSTS DID A FANTASTIC JOB OF FUNDING THE STAND DOWN. THIS YEAR WE WILL HAVE MANY MORE TO SERVE. PLEASE SEND IN YOUR DONATIONS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE AND MAKE THE CHECKS PAYABLE TO FEDERATED WHOLESALE. PLEASE SEND THEM TO ME AT MY HOME.
PLEASE PASS THIS ON TO YOUR AUXILIARY AND SAL .

DALE W. LUZADER
222 WOOSTER STREET
LODI, OHIO 44254
dale77@verizon.net

JUNIOR ACTIVITIES
Chairman - Karen Peel - Have your Juniors been working on patches and prayer books?

Junior reports are due April 1 st. Junior District Conference will be held Mar 28th at Unit # 281, 2 to 4 pm.

Junior Dept. Convention will be May 15th -Don Gentile Post #532 Columbus, OH.

Breakfast fund raiser

March 14 th - Breakfast fund raiser - Post # 281 -
Breakfast - 10:00 am to 11:00 am - Raffle will begin
promptly at 11:00 am until 12:00 noon - $15. each

BEST RIBS IN DAYTON
Saturday, April 17th 12-6 p.m.
Dayton Post 776 937-252-3216 5350 Burkhardt Ave.
Slabs $17.00 Sandwiches $7.00

SAL 11th District SPRING Conference

March 14, 2010 • Zanesville Post 29
NOMINATION & ELECTION OF OFFICERS
Registration opens.....................9:00 a.m.
Opening Ceremonies w/Legionnaires...............10:00 a.m.
S.A.L. Meeting following opening ceremonies
Lunch.....................................12:00 noon
Memorial Service......................1:00 p.m.
(bring Squadron colors if you have them)
William Berg • District Commander (740) 336-4922

Public Relations Award

The nation’s only festival dedicated to honoring military films was the recipient of The American Legion National Commander’s Public Relations Award during a luncheon at the Renaissance Hotel Wednesday.
In a letter to GI Film Festival President Brandon Millett, National Commander Clarence E. Hill wrote, “The GI Film Festival was selected to receive this honor because of its support of one of The American Legion’s corporate goals: promoting the honorable nature of military service. Since 2007, the annual festival has honored works that exclusively celebrate the successes and sacrifices of the American military through the medium of film. As the GI Film Festival Web site states, you present films “that honor the heroic stories of the American Armed Forces and the worldwide struggle for freedom and liberty.”
“Our mission from the beginning has been to honor the service and sacrifice of the American veteran,” said GI Film Festival co-founder Laura Millett, in a statement from the GIFF. “What a special honor to be recognized by The American Legion, one of the nation’s most respected veteran service organizations. We’re very proud of the growing reputation of our film festival and we look forward to building on this success in 2010 and beyond.”
The fourth annual GI Film Festival, www.gifilmfestival.com, will be held May 12-16 in Washington and will feature a number of first-time film screenings and celebrity panels.
Past recipients of the award include the late Meet the Press host Tim Russert, entertainer Ben Stein, former NBC anchor Tom Brokaw and former Secretary of Education William Bennett.
With a current membership of 2.5-million wartime veterans, The American Legion was founded in 1919 on the four pillars of a strong national security, veterans affairs, Americanism, and youth programs. Legionnaires work for the betterment of their communities through more than 14,000 posts across the nation.

Recent VA News Releases
Web Site Offers Single Access Point for Wounded Warriors Three Federal Departments Collaborate on National Resource Directory

WASHINGTON (Feb. 25, 2010) - The federal departments of Veterans Affairs, Labor and Defense unveiled today an improved Web site for wounded warriors.

"VA is committed to tapping into the full powers of the Internet to provide accurate, timely, easy to find and easy to understand information that improves the lives of Veterans, service members, their families and all who care for them," said Secretary of Veterans Affairs
Eric K. Shinseki.

The National Resource Directory is a comprehensive, free, online tool for wounded, ill and injured service members, Veterans and their families. Visitors to the site can find an extensive range of information about Veterans' benefits, including disability and pension benefits, VA health care and educational opportunities. The site also provides information for those who care for Veterans, such as access to emotional, financial and community assistance.

The Web site has been enhanced to provide a single point of access to a wealth of information from more than 10,000 sites by federal, state and local governments and organizations offering services for wounded
warriors.

"This online directory is an invaluable resource for those involved in helping service members and Veterans," Shinseki said. "Reliable information about government and private-sector programs can be a
priceless tool."

A recent addition to the Web site is a specialized section where users can find help for homeless Veterans. These resources will help end Veteran homelessness over the next five years.

The new design will help visitors find needed resources easily. Other enhancements include a fast, accurate search engine; a "bookmark and share" capability that allows users to share valuable resources on Facebook, Twitter and other social media sites; and a news feature with updates on relevant information and events. Resources are added daily.

Visit the site at www.nationalresourcedirectory.gov.

SALute DEADLINE

CHAIRMEN AND OFFICERS Just a reminder that the deadline for the next issue of the Salute is
February 28th. Please submit your articles. Thanks

Rob Brewer
Public Relations Chairman

Post Everlasting

Former Americanism Director and SAL Liaison William Welsh has passed away. A memorial service for Bill was Saturday February 20^th

Cards of sympathy and support may be sent to:

Lois Jean Welsh6066 Burnley Sq. E.

Columbus, OH 43229-2661

Operation Comfort Warriors

With just a few days left in the Pepsi Refresh grant competition, The American Legion's Operation Comfort Warriors remains near the top position. Staying there is the goal for midnight, February 28.

Vote again. Let's get this important grant for our wounded heroes, and get them the comfort and personal items and clothing the government cannot provide. Here's how:
Go to The American Legion Web site - http://www.legion.org/ - and click on the "Vote Daily" icon on the right. You may also access the site directly at:
www.refresheverything.com/operationcomfortwarriors.

YEAGER-BENSON MEMORIAL POST 199 CYCLONES HOCKEY NIGHT

FRIDAY April 2, 2010
7:30 PM
COST: $12.00 PER TICKET FAN APPRECIATION NIGHT $1.00 NIGHT (BEERS, PIZZA AND HOT DOGS)

BUS TRANSPORTATION-FIRST 30 PEOPLE TO PAY $22.00 WILL RIDE TO AND FROM GAME - - MEET AT POST AT 6 PM - -ANYONE ABOVE THE 30 WILL HAVE TO PROVIDE OWN TRANSPORTATION

TICKET MONEY DUE BY MARCH 27TH

A GOOD TIME WILL BE HAD FOR ALL

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL AL BUXTON 513-481-7336/513-225-1489

Department of Veterans Affairs

Assistance for Homeless Veterans Does VA Have Programs That Can Assist Homeless Veterans?

VA has many benefits and services to assist homeless veterans. Disability benefits, education, health care, rehabilitation services, residential care, and compensated work therapy are among the services we offer to eligible veterans.

What Kind of VA Services and Benefit Programs Are Available for Homeless Veterans?· Health Care for Homeless Veterans Program (HCHV) operates at 135 sites, where extensive outreach, physical and psychiatric health exams, supported housing programs, Drop-In-Centers, compensated work therapy, treatment, referrals, and ongoing case management are provided to homeless veterans with mental health problems, including substance abuse. · Domiciliary Care for Homeless Veterans Program (DCHV) provides medical care and rehabilitation in a residential setting on VA medical center grounds to eligible ambulatory veterans disabled by medical or psychiatric disorders, injury, or age and who do not need hospitalization or nursing home care. · Inpatient & Outpatient Health Care: VA medical centers provide inpatient treatment to thousands of homeless veterans each year. Hospitals and outpatient clinics provide eligible veterans with comprehensive physical and mental health care, alcohol and substance abuse treatment, rehabilitation treatment, and other specialized services. · Readjustment Counseling Centers also called Vet Centers, help veterans through community outreach. They offer specialized services, such as group, individual, and family counseling, to help eligible veterans overcome psychological difficulties or to resolve conflicts that may be contributing to their homelessness. They also provide referral services, connecting veterans to VA programs and community services. · Outreach: The staff from VA regional offices, medical centers, vet centers, and special homeless programs regularly visit community shelters, agencies, and the streets to help thousands of homeless veterans each year. · Benefits and Entitlements: VA annually awards more than $17 billion in disability benefits to millions of veterans. In many instances, these payments are the major source of income to veterans and serve to prevent homelessness. VA's Fiduciary Program provides specialized case management to over 67,000 veterans, many of whom might be homeless without the services it provides. · Acquired Property Sales for Homeless Providers Program makes available properties VA obtains through foreclosures on VA-insured mortgages for sale to homeless provider organizations at a discount of 20 to 50 percent. Some of these properties are available for lease. How Do You Get More Information?Contact any VA medical center or regional office and a VA representative can provide information about VA benefits and services available to assist homeless veterans. They can also provide you with the address and phone number of the VA homeless program coordinator nearest you.

Because of weather conditions, The American Legion Department of Ohio is closing early today, tomorrow is questionable.

Any membership received through Thursday morning's mail will count for the Blue Jug. We will run the report on Thursday afternoon.

Mike

MEMBERSHIP

Let’s get going Central Region we need to get ahead of the Southern Region again. We need to get the word out that we have Recruitment pin to give out to members who sign up 5 new members. We have a little bit of paper work to fill out and send to me and I will send out the 2010 pin. I received a e-mail from NVC Dennis Theobald and he says that the Central Region has signed up 10,000 new members so I believe that we must have members that have signed up 5 members and should have a pin coming. Please get the word out I’ve only sent out 5 pins so far and last year I sent out around 40. Thanks and have a great day.

NATIONAL COALITION FOR HOMELESS VETERANS

NCHV Holds Two HVRP Teleconferences in February
Registration now open via email
NCHV is holding two "HVRP Replicable Models" teleconferences in February. These calls – occurring on Thursday, Feb. 4, and Thursday, Feb. 25, at 2 p.m. EST – will feature current Homeless Veterans' Reintegration Program (HVRP) grantees who will share their experiences, approaches to collaboration and best practices. Participants will learn how to capitalize on implementing HVRP funding, and how they can benefit from other grantees’ experiences.
For more information and to register for these calls, click here.

POW/MIA Radio

Bad Us - We don’t remind our reader often enough to tune into POW/MIA Radio on the internet at http://www.americanewsnet.com every Sunday afternoon from 4 – 7 P.M (Eastern Time). Hosted by Rod Utech, POW/MIA Radio presents interviews with well known members of the POW/MIA community. This week’s guests are Ms. Kathy Shemeley, President of the POW/MIA Connecticut Forget-Me-Nots, Inc. and Dr. Henry Mark Holzer author of “Archangel, 1918 to Hanoi, 1972 and the Case of Michael Joseph Bosiljevac, USAF.”

District 14

District 14 Sons of The American Legion winter conference to be held January 31, 2010. Portage Squadron 496 located at 1945 Mogadore Rd in Kent will host the conference starting at 2:00pm. Each Squadron needs to be represented as Commander Millick will have the latest information from the recent Detachment Executive Committee meeting in Columbus. Please spread the word to your membership. Bring your membership cards as there will be a roundup to help get the district closer to the 85% membership target and return the district to its rightful leadership place.

Finally: a comprehensive list of resources for military families...all in one place.
Do you know a military family in need of free lawn care and landscaping? How about a deployed servicemember who could use temporary foster care for their pet? Wondering where to find scholarships for military spouses or pro bono legal aid for veterans? Looking for ways to help military children cope with a parent's deployment?

These are just a few of the more than 100 resources you'll find on the brand new Gateway to Services on the American Legion Auxiliary's Web site. The Clearinghouse Committee, part of the ALA Strategic Planning team, has worked diligently with National Headquarters staff and an AmeriCorps VISTA volunteer to introduce this exciting, new online place for servicemembers, military families and fellow Auxiliary members to find the services and support they need--all in a one-stop shop.

We hope you are as thrilled as we are that the ALA's investment in strategic planning has visibly paid off with this "beta version" of Gateway to Services, the first launch of an ALA initiative that will certainly grow and change with new technology. We invite you to check it out!

New Item from National Emblem Sales.

A great item I think the SAL membership will really like.

1.5" die struck coin with Sons of The American Legion emblem on one side and Legion Riders emblem on other side. Click on the link to view the new item. http://emblem.legion.org/SAL-Legion-Riders-Coin/productinfo/517.420/

Share if you have a chance please.

Take care sir.

Richard Keith

Prayer for Haiti

Lord we come to you on bended knee, heads bowed overflowing with grief for the many people who have been injured and the loss of love ones in Haiti.

Those who are waiting to hear from their love ones, Father we ask for your comfort and compassion during their time of need and pray for their safety.

We ask you Lord, to give courage and strength to those who go to their aid and through their hearts will be heavy and filled with sorrow we ask Lord that you give them endurance needed to help them through their difficult task.

Please give the people of Haiti the strength Lord to get through each difficult and devastating day that faces their Nation.

And lastly Lord we ask that you touch our hearts as a nation to provide the needed help both in material supplies and prayers so that we might help those in there hour of need. Amen.

John L Beaver
National Chaplain American Legion
chaplainjohnbeaver@comcast.net

Get the 2010 GI Bill Guide
Your GI Bill Rate for 2010 is over $49,000. Here are 2 main steps you'll need to take to start using and understanding your benefits.
1. Find Military Friendly Schools that offer college credit for military
service and flexible schedules.
2. Get the GI Bill Guide to learn how to use your benefits.

Good morning,
VMM-162 (REIN)Commanding Officer sends the following:

"Please let the families know we are positioned off the coast of Haiti and commenced operations on the 24th and will continue until we are relieved of tasking. Haitian response to MEU personnel has been positive and we continue to provide supplies and medical support. VMM-162 (REIN) morale is high and the Marines and Sailors are working hard and doing great things. From medical, to flying, to maintenance, and providing linguists;

VMM-162(REIN) is in the middle of this operation." - end CO's message

You can also Google "24thMEU in Haiti" to view media coverage.

Have a great week.

Your FRO,
Bill "Top V" Vornheder
Family Readiness Officer
VMM-162 (REIN); The ACE for the 24th MEU

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