It's Time to ... VA seeks to snuff smokers’ /Show Your Colors' comp claims ■ Jordan renews push press late on Monday Oct. 20. “Show Your Colors is an old-fashioned for flag amendment American protest. We’re going to exercise WARNING: The VA General Counsel Has our freedom of speech in the right way. Determined That Smoking Is Hazardous To We’re going to blanket America with flags Veterans’ Health, But Please Don’t Expect VA Bv ANTHONY MILLER so that everytime a senator leaves his To Grant Claims For Tobacco-Related Editor office, he thinks of the flag amendment. Ailments. That’s what ‘Show Your Colors’ is all INDIANAPOLIS—The eight-year grass¬ about,” Jordan said in an Oct. 13 speech INDIANAPOLIS—That is the message roots crusade to protect the American flag that drew roars of support from filtering down from VA Secretary-desig¬ will succeed if enough citizens make their Department commanders and adjutants. He nate Hershel W. Gober, who says veterans voices heard, and show their unwavering called on Legionnaires, Auxiliary and Sons with smoking-related disability compensa¬ support in the coming months for the red, of The American Legion members in every tion claims will sap VA’s coffers and delay white and blue. town, county and state to mobilize for 1998 the claims-processing system. And it’s a National Commander Anthony Jordan, with other members of the Citizens Flag message The American Legion finds unac¬ addressing National Executive Committee Alliance, the 123-member organization ceptable. members in Indianapolis for Fall Meetings spearheading efforts in key states and on In a recent letter to the Senate and Oct. 13-16, urged every member of The Capitol Hill. National Commander House Veterans’ Affairs committees, American Legion family to “Show Your Jordan and NEC members covered a lot Gober wrote that VA is not prepared to Colors.” He asked they fly a U.S. flag from of ground during the two-day National Anthony G. Jordan deal with the volume of claims anticipated their home or business beginning Executive Committee sessions, Oct. 15-16, flag treated with contempt. from veterans seeking compensation for Memorial Day 1998 and continue until the in which the Legion’s governing body “In this country, we protect the things smoking-related illnesses. “I am con¬ Senate sends a flag-protection amendment heard updates on Legion legislative priori¬ we value. We protect our family. We pro¬ cerned that this sizable influx of claims to the states for ratification. ties and programs. The National tect our community, church and home,” will so significantly increase our backlog A similar measure, House Joint Commander’s message centered, however, Jordan said. “I hope I never live to see the that veterans with non-tobacco-related con¬ Resolution 54, won overwhelming on rallying support for the flag campaign. day when the American people will have ditions will experience intolerable delays approval June 12 in the House, 310-114. It’s an issue, he said, that touches some¬ Introduction of a flag-protection bill was thing deeper than the disgust and outrage pending in the Senate as Dispatch went to most Americans feel when they see the See YOUR COLORS, page 4 See SNUFF, page 7 Pentagon point man on Gulf illness visits HQ

INDIANAPOLIS—The Pentagon’s point The American Legion, which created its from independent medical research. for the illnesses. Since 1991, veterans have man on Gulf War Illnesses admits the own Persian Gulf War Task Force. The Rostker says his mission to restore DoD’s reported various problems, from flu-like Department of Defense has had to play Legion’s advocacy efforts on behalf of credibility rests in large part on working symptoms, dizziness and stomach ailments catch-up investigating the causes for undi¬ Gulf veterans has helped keep the issue with veterans group, and improving out¬ to memory loss, weight loss, hair loss and agnosed illnesses reported by thousands of alive in Capitol Hill hearing rooms, and reach efforts. upper respiratory problems, among others. gulf veterans. kept the pressure on VA and DoD to make The Presidential Advisory Committee The committee’s final report is expected to “The failure of DoD is that we didn’t good on the government’s promise to care on Gulf War Illness last month called on be delivered to the White House by Oct. listen to our veterans,” Dr. Bernard D. for those America sends in harm’s way. Congress to enact a “permanent, statutory” 30. Rostker admitted in briefing Legion offi¬ The Pentagon and Central Intelligence roster of benefits and health-care for the Meanwhile, Rostker and his staff— cials on Oct. 13 during the organization’s Agency came under fire in 1996 following thousands of veterans who have been expanded to 150 from the dozen he inherit¬ Fall Meetings. “By not being on top of this revelations that thousands of U.S. troops stricken by mysterious ailments after serv¬ ed last year—are pushing ahead. The in the early 1990s, it made it very difficult might have suffered low-level exposure to ing in the Gulf. The panel stopped just Office of the Special Assistant offers for us,” he said, adding the Pentagon’s chemical weapons after American forces short of recommending that President Bill numerous services to sick Gulf veterans, or response to Gulf War veterans’ health destroyed an Iraqi ammunition dump at Clinton end DoD control of ongoing chem¬ those concerned about possible medical complaints initially was “slow and superfi¬ Khamisiyah in March 1991, days after the ical/biological exposure studies, a contin¬ problems linked to their service in theater cial.” ground war ended. The Pentagon’s new¬ gency the Pentagon dismissed until the during the war. Rostker, appointed in 1996 to head the found candor dates from those revelations, Khamisiyah revelations. DoD’s own esti¬ One of those resources is GulfLINK, the Office of Special Assistant for Gulf War a change welcomed by The American mates just released put the number of U.S. web site of the Office of the Special Illnesses, told Legionnaires he and his staff Legion and other veterans’ advocacy troops possibly exposed to chemical agents Assistant for Gulf War Illnesses: are striving to make up for lost time, and groups. at 98,910. Officials say little is known http://www.gulflink.osd.mil. Those who repair damage to DoD’s credibility from The American Legion’s stance has been about health effects from low-level expo¬ want to leave e-mail messages can do so at years of official indifference to the plight consistent from day one: Examine every sure to nerve agents, one of the focus areas this address: [email protected]. of sick Gulf War veterans. He said his hazard U.S. and allied troops faced in the of present government-funded research. office is continuing extensive outreach Persian Gulf and allow any conclusions or The advisory committee, after two See ROSTKER, page 3 efforts with veterans service groups such as medical treatment to be guided by findings years’ study, pinpointed no single source Americans who love Old Glory and the values it blanket the nation with the U.S. Flag, beginning Yellowstone National Park? Would any reasonable per¬ represents are not about to wave the white flag Memorial Day 1998 and will not lower them until the son consider those actions an expression of political just when the fight for protecting the red, white U.S. Senate passes the flag-protection amendment. speech? Of course not. The violator would be up on and blue is approaching its most critical stage. If Every time a senator passes near a Legion Post or a CFA charges, if he didn’t fall prey to irate campers before Americans speak their minds, Congress will—they activist’s home, that red, white and blue reminder will John Law intervened. must—heed their voices. be on duty, a high-profile expression of support. I’ll say this one more time: Flag desecration is con¬ My friends, mainstream America is where this fight As a voter, I want those who represent me in duct, not speech, and the Citizens Flag Alliance will risk for the soul of America will be won or lost in the next Congress to side with the the majority of Americans defeat in the court of public opinion to test the proposi¬ 12 months. At the Fall Meetings in Indianapolis just who want Old Glory protected. And, believe me, I’m tion contained in the flag amendment language, which completed, I issued a call to action to our assembled going to let them know about it. The shrill minority reads simply: The Congress shall have power to prohibit leadership, asking all our members to mobilize for one lined up in opposition are trying to frame the flag-pro¬ the physical desecration of the flag of the . of the most important Capitol Hill battles The American tection movement as dangerous, one which will curb the After all, for nearly 200 years flag-protection laws Legion will ever fight. Before I unveil what our “Show were on the books in every state and freedom of speech Your Colors” campaign is all about, let’s examine what’s flourished. I’m confident that given the chance, most at stake here. Americans will side with their flag. As I said in my On June 12, the House passed House Joint Resolution As' a show ofsupport for Old Glory, we ’re going to speech to Department commanders, adjutants and NEC 54 with room to spare, 310-114, with introduction of a members, nearly everyone in America favors protecting similar measure expected in the Senate soon. The mea¬ blanket the nation with the U.S. Flag, beginning our flag. They want to help. It’s up to us to show them sure represents no dark conspiracy to rob Americans of what to do. What we need now is the type of commit¬ their free speech rights, as those in the organized opposi¬ Memorial Day 1998. and will not lower them until ment from our members and the CFA member organiza¬ tion bellow about over and over. These are the same elit¬ tions that will move votes in the Senate. It’s up to you. ists—led by groups like the American Civil Liberties the U.S. Senate passes the We need to write personal letters of support; we need Union and Citizens for the Constitution and the People Senators to commit to this issue, and say so publicly; for the American Way—who are afraid to let the consti¬ flag-protection amendment. and when they do so, we need to thank them for their tutional process work as intended. support, not once, but again and again. Those on the The Founding Fathers recognized the Constitution fence or are not with us should know the majority of they created was both an expression of principles for their constituents stand behind efforts to protect the flag. representative government and a living document that free speech rights so many Americans, millions of veter¬ Any prudent lawmaker possesses a finely-tuned political needed to change as the nation evolved. The founders’ ans included, for more than two centuries have risked thermostat; when the heat is turned up, they’ll feel it. intentionally guarded against frivolous tinkering by life and limb to protect. That’s malarkey, and it’s typical With your help we can make the campaign to protect making the amendment process a difficult proposition. of the outright distortions of fact told by the organized Old Glory one of the greatest grassroots success stories Now it’s time for us to finish the job we started in 1989 opposition whose members don’t know the difference of the century. The help you need to get started is all after the Supreme Court, in Texas v. Johnson, made all between free speech rights and vandalism. around you. Look to the Citizens Flag Alliance’s state and federal flag protection statutes invalid. The In this country, a citizen with a beef against the Internet address: http://www.cfa-inc.org for the latest Citizens Flag Alliance—123 organizations representing National Park Service, for example, can speak out campaign updates; or read all about it in the CFA’s more than 20 million Americans—want the Congress against it, demand in print and broadcast outlets that it monthly newsletter, Old Glory News. Every Department simply to put the question of flag protection to the peo¬ be abolished and his cause will catch on and grow or has a CFA coordinator who can help with resource ple, and let the people decide. That’s what “Show Your wither from lack of public interest. But what if this cru¬ materials and training. But, my friends, it’s up to you to Colors” is all about. sader decides to take a chainsaw to a California Show Your Colors, and together we’ll win this worth¬ As a show of support for Old Glory, we’re going to Redwood, or spray-paint a few choice words on signs in while fight. And we will win it! □ CFA conducting scholarship contest

The Citizens Flag Alliance is conduct¬ encourage and stimulate high school stu¬ ing of the rights of citizens to petition ing a youth scholarship contest designed dents to study government, the their government under the U.S. National Commander to provide high school students with a Constitution, and their rights within it,” Constitution. Anthony G. Jordan forum to express their views on why the says retired Maj. Gen. Patrick Brady, A complete mailing of contest materi¬ Published twice monthly, except for American Flag should be protected from chairman of the CFA. “Students need to als was sent to all high schools across the September and December. Printed by the physical desecration. The contest is sup¬ study and leam about our greatest docu¬ United States earlier this fall. Additional Franklin (Ind.) Daily Journal. All material ported by the more than 120 national ment, the Constitution, and our greatest contest information is available online at within can be reproduced by American Legion publications without permission. member organizations of the CFA and symbol, the American Flag,” Brady says. www.cfa-inc.org. □ Please credit The American Legion will provide a total of $108,000 in schol¬ Scholarships of $1,000 will be award¬ Dispatch as the source. arship awards. ed to the winner from each state and the Correspondence and letters to the editor The contest was announced this sum¬ District of Columbia. Officials will Did you know? should be sent to: The American Legion mer on Independence Day, hot on the award 10 additional scholarships from The American Legion led the DispatCh, P.O. Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206. For subscriptions and customer ser¬ heels of the victory for the flag amend¬ the pool of state winners with first place charge to have the Veterans Administration elevated to cabinet- vice, call (317) 630-1349. An annual sub¬ ment in the U.S. House of receiving $15,000, second place $10,000, scription is $15. The editorial office number level status. In March 1989, that quest Representatives. A constitutional amend¬ third place $8,000, fourth place $6,000 is (317) 630-1352; FAX number is (317) became a reality when the first ment, H.J. Res. 54, easily passed in the and fifth through tenth place receiving 630-1280. http://www.legion.org Secretary of Veterans Affairs took House by a vote of 310 to 114. Once $3,000 each. office. STAFF passed by the Senate and ratified by the Individuals must be citizens or lawful President George Bush appointed Editor: Anthony Miller state legislatures, the flag amendment permanent residents of the United States former Illinois Congressman Edward Contributing Editors: Julie A. Rhoad, Trent D. will return to the American people the to be eligible. All participants must be Derwinski to head the Department of McNeeley, Robert Imler, Layne Cameron Photography: John E. Simon right to protect their flag. The essay students enrolled, at the time of the con¬ Veterans Affairs. Derwinski drew fire Subscriptions: Robyn K. Black theme is “The American Flag Protection test, in a high school grades nine through from veterans groups for proposing Amendment: A Right of The 12. Criteria forjudging will include clar¬ non-veterans be allowed access to VA Vol.7, No. 5 Oct. 23,1997 People...The Right Thing To Do.” ity and strength of argumentation, quality facilities in rural areas, and later was “The essay contest is designed to and originality of essay and understand¬ forced to resign. A member of the National American Legion Press Association Oct. 23, 1997 LEGION NEWS DISPATCH 3 Legion promotes first-class operation by supporting American Education Week

people. This year, Nov. 16-22 is American forum for the community. Members can can’t get in textbooks. In addition, a speech Education Week—a time to put education honor educators with a banquet, and dis¬ written specifically for American first. tribute American Legion materials at open Education Week is available from the American Legion members recognized houses. Working with local educators and Public Relations division at Legion long ago that an educated society is a pow¬ showing your Post’s interest in promoting National Headquarters by calling (317) erful society. In 1919, the newly organized education should stimulate other creative 630-1253. American Legion was disturbed that an ideas. The ten-minute speech can also be estimated 25 percent of the nation’s World Finally, Legionnaires can promote downloaded from the Legion’s Internet War I draftees were illiterate. To combat Americanism by presenting students with web site at www.Iegion.org. this, The American Legion joined forces the American Rag, or distributing the Need Additional information on American with the National Education Association to a Lift ? scholarship catalogue, and A Guide Education Week can be obtained by writ¬ generate support for education. An annual for Parents and Students brochures. ing to the Legion’s Americanism and observance was agreed upon and, in 1921, Legionnaires are walking history books Children & Youth Division, P.O. Box American Education Week was bom. and would make great classroom speakers, 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206. Ask for the The American Legion, the National offering their birds-eye insights into histor¬ American Education Week brochure, stock Education Association and 11 other organi¬ ical events told from a perspective students No. B0043. □ zations will promote the theme “Teaching Children to Think and Dream.” “All public and private schools need Legion helps (Champions for Children* charity ast year The American Legion fami¬ community support,” says Joe Caouette Jr., L the New Hampshire Legionnaire serving as While charitable giving might be taking National Children and Youth ly invested nearly $24 million in children through scholarships and chairman of the National Americanism some hard knocks in certain segments of Commission Chairman Elmer Fuhrhop youth education programs. The Legion’s Commission. “This week is devoted to rec¬ society, such is not the case for members encourages Legionnaires to heed the CMN upcoming American Education Week is ognizing the contributions made by school of the world’s largest veterans’ organiza¬ motto: “Help Hospitals Help Kids! Support another opportunity for Legionnaires, boards, administrators and teachers.” tion. the Children’s Miracle Network.” Auxiliary members and Sons of The What’s the best way to do this? “Our new alliance with the Children’s “Members of The American Legion are American Legion to continue investing in Legionnaires can participate by visiting Miracle Network underscores The Amer¬ dedicated to making a difference in the youth. local schools and talking with teachers and ican Legion’s mission and reputation as a lives of children,” Fuhrhop says. “We are administrators. Legion Posts can sponsor American Education Week allows caretaker of America’s future—its chil¬ honored to join with the Children’s Miracle education week essay contests, host a members of The American Legion to take dren,” says National Commander Anthony Network in this worthy effort, to become career night or organize a public education an active role in the education of young G. Jordan. That alliance was created with ‘CMN Champions’ for children.” Res. 9 (Children & Youth), passed at the Arizona Legionnaires in the Phoenix Spring Meetings of the National Executive area are making their own contributions to Committee. the CMN. The Phoenix Coyotes hockey Let A Cruise Be Your Post’s CMN adheres to the philanthropic prin¬ team recently announced plans for “Honor ciple that 100 percent of the funds raised in America’s Veterans” night when Phoenix a community must stay in that community. hosts the Tampa Bay Lightning on Nov. Next Fundraising Event All monies raised directly benefit the seven 11. million children treated annually by CMN- Legionnaires and members of Unified member hospitals. These 165 childrens’ Arizona Veterans (a state veterans’ coali¬ You Can Raise s5,000, S10,000, s20,000 or More For Your Post hospitals nationwide treat children with all tion) will receive special ticket discounts afflictions and render care regardless of a on Veterans’ Day, with $1 of each ticket family’s ability to pay. Last year alone, sale going to the Children’s Miracle CMN-affiliated hospitals provided $2.5 Network on behalf of the Coyotes’ “Goals billion in charity care. for Kids Foundation.” □

ROSTKER continued from page 1

report detailed information about environ¬ mental hazards they might have encoun¬ We will guarantee you the lowest price for your cruise, provide “The failure of tered during service. Call the DoD Incident you with personalized flyers, Post bulletin announcements, and a DoD is that we Reporting Line at (800) 472-6719, or con¬ free cruise for every 15 passengers.You will also have the tact the web site: http://www.- didn’t listen to dtic.mil/gulflink/. security of knowing that you will be dealing with LIBERTY our veterans.” Also, the Department of Veterans TRAVEL, a 46 year old company, which is the largest privately Affairs for several years has offered com¬ owned travel operation in the world. With 188 offices and Dr. Bernard D. Rostker plete physical exams to every Gulf War over one billion in annual sales, we guarantee you the best prices. veteran through its VA Gulf War Registry. VA is keeping a centralized registry to HI NORWEGIAN In addition, the DoD maintains a toll- L**1! CRUISE LINE free Gulf War Veterans Hotline for report¬ track veterans’ health complaints and keep in touch with sick veterans via newsletter FOR MORE INFORMATION ON HOW ing service-connected health complaints, at (800) 796-9699. Sick Gulf veterans, and other updates. VA also offers the whether active duty, retired or reserve, and examinations to spouses and children of their family members are eligible for care Gulf War veterans. Its toll-free hotline CAN HELP YOUR POST, at DoD medical facilities through its number is (800) 749-8387. Veterans can Comprehensive Clinical Evaluation connect to VA’s computer bulletin board CALL TOLL FREE TODAY AND ASK FOR THE FUNDRAISING DEPARTMENT Program (CCEP). Call the toll-free number by dialing 800-US1-VETS, (800-871- 8387); or hook into VA’s site on the World 1-800-999-1921 listed above to register. The Pentagon set up a reporting line in Wide Web at: http://www.va.gov/health LIBERTY TRAVEL FUNDRAISING GROUP DEPARTMENT /environ/persgulf.htm. □ 1940 COMMERCE STREET, SUITE 209, YORKTOWN HEIGHTS, NY 10598 July 1995 that allows Gulf veterans to 4 DISPATCH 1997 FALL MEI

THE RIGHT ADDRESS: National Commander Anthony G. Jordan challenged the Legion leadership to mobilize members on the Department, County, Area and Post levels for the ‘Show Your Colors’ campaign.Teams of dedicated volunteers will take the flag amendment fight nationwide, with extra effort in states that could swing key votes in the U.S. Senate.

to victory in the flag campaign, help came Oct. 9). In a related development, Nebraska Admii in the form of donations to the CFA, from Sen. Chuck Hagel and Rep. J.C. Watts of reducti the Departments of Michigan ($1,600) and Oklahoma recently submitted the GI Bill of no-gr( YOUR COLORS Pennsylvania ($1,000). Also at the Oct. 15 Health to the Congressional Budget Office, That’s NEC session, New York Adjutant Richard which will estimate costs of implementing depenc Continued from page 1 Pedro presented “Defender of the Flag” cer¬ the reforms. budget tificates to Brady and Past National The GI Bill of Health seeks fair and “V7 Commander Joseph Frank on behalf of the equal access to VA health-care for all veter¬ we’re : become so hardened to the evil around us tough re-election campaigns. The states, Capital District of the New York Elks’ Flag ans through eligibility reform, expanding the mo that we’re not willing to stand up for what are: Connecticut (Lieberman); Illinois Day Committee. medical-care contracting and seeking new chairr is right, that we’re not willing to stand up (Mosely-Braun); Maryland (Mikulski); While flag amendment supporters mar¬ sources of revenue over and above VA’s Comm for our flag.” North Dakota (Conrad and Dorgan); Utah shal forces back home, the NEC kept an eye appropriated funding. The plan integrates VA&E And just as actions have consequences, (Bennett); Washington (Murray); and on Capitol Hill; members also learned with VA’s own ongoing restructuring initia¬ said t doing nothing carries its own price, he said. Wisconsin (Feingold and Kohl). Other results of a study that looks ahead to The tives through its Veterans Integrated require If more Americans don’t close ranks with states will be added as the Senate vote American Legion’s role in community and Service Networks, or VISNs. health- the Citizens Flag Alliance, Jordan added, approaches. national life the 21st Century. Following are highlights of commission withou those shared values which made America While CFA supporters in every state On the legislative front, the Legion- reports NEC members approved at the Fall Cos great will wither away. work the phone lines and write individual¬ backed GI Bill of Health is gaining momen¬ Meetings: won’t “If we allow this symbol to be burned, to ized letters to their senators, the group’s tum and welcome scrutiny in congressional offer v be desecrated, then we are by our lack of chief spokesman is hitting the road to rally meeting rooms. House Veterans Affairs Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation prospe action participating in the devaluing of the the CFA’s member organizations. Retired Committee Chairman Bob Stump (R-Ariz.) The balanced budget blueprint worked more world’s foremost symbol of freedom,” Maj. Gen. Patrick H. Brady, CFA board has vowed to conduct hearings on the mer¬ out July 29 between Congress and President envisi Jordan said. “We are giving way to the chairman, thanked NEC members for their its of the Legion’s GI Bill of Health, stem¬ should, in theory, eliminate the Healtf mob. We are condoning the general continuing support and said organization ming from Jordan’s testimony Sept. 23 at a federal deficit reduction by 2002. The fine totals destruction of our society’s values.” and logistics will determine the outcome. In joint hearing of the House and Senate com¬ print on that blueprint spells trouble for VA, billion NEC members responded to Jordan’s addition to the NEC’s renewed commitment mittee on veterans’ affairs (See Dispatch, specifically the Veterans Health mitted call to action by approving continued finan¬ Nation cial support for the flag campaign (Res. 1, Om Americanism/Finance). Res. 6 Supports amending Internal Revenue Code concerning eligibility Legioi As the campaign for passage heats up in vices t the Senate, the Citizens Flag Alliance is requirements for Sons of The American NEC Resolutions, Fall 1997 Legion and The American Legion vivors counting votes and working the levers Auxiliary. Servici where the campaign will be won or lost: During their sessions in Indianapolis, “Americanism Conference,” meeting for¬ service each senator’s home turf. The latest tally NEC members approved 24 resolutions mat, from 1998 to no sooner than 1999. Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation impact shows 54 co-sponsors in the Senate, includ¬ Following is a roster of the policy and pro¬ Res. 21 Supports changing baseball tour¬ Res. 7 Encourages Departments to under¬ erans ing the primary sponsors, Utah Republican gram resolutions. For a full test of reolu- ney format from double elimination to take a thorough and comprehensive review Resoui Sen. Orrin Hatch and Sen. , a tions adopted by the National Executive Olympic style format with two-division of their service programs. Georgia Democrat. Based on their previous Committee, write: Office of the Archives, play. Res. 8 Supports alternative funding strate¬ An records and public statements, the CFA is The American Legion, P.O. Box 1055, gies to strengthen VA’s Veterans Equitable . Hig counting on support from 64 senators, still Indianapolis, IN 46206. Economic Resource Allocation (VERA) funding Comm three shy of the 67 votes, a two-thirds Res. 2 Recommends excluding Guard and model. on Chi Americanism Reserve income when determining eligibil¬ majority, needed to pass a flag-protection * Ap] Res. 1 Authorizes additional support for ity for unemployment benefits. bill. Foreign Relations Ameri passage of a constitutional amendment to The key now is communication, and that Res. 9 Supports establishing a nationwide approv protect the U.S. flag from acts of physical Finance includes high profile events. In unveiling network of POW-MIA memorial high¬ mend: the “Show Your Colors” campaign, Jordan desecration. Res. 17 Financially supports junior uni¬ ways. formed musical groups participating at the Recre urged Departments and Posts to organize Res. 11 Supports increasing to $750 from Res. 10 The American Legion Policy on $500 the scholarship annually awarded to National Convention. Olymp kick-off events next May on the steps of anti-personnel landmines. the Boys Nation President Pro Tern. for reg their state capitols. House and Senate sup¬ Res. 18 Approves contract with Edtech Internal Affairs beginn porters should be invited and publicly Inc. to enhance Need a Lift? and other edu¬ Res. 5 Urges repair of the Bataan Death Bo; thanked for their support. At present, efforts National Security cational programs. March Monument and the repair and main¬ Res. 24 Supports a timely and equitable Vaugl are concentrated in seven states represented Res. 20 Amends previous resolution (Res. tenance of the Punch Bowl area by the Legio by senators who either have agreed to solution in the final disposition of the bells 37, Spring 1997) to delay testing a new American Battle Monuments Commission. of Balangiga, Philippines. Vaugh reconsider their previous stance or who face Conn. FALL MEETINGS DISPATCH 5

• Set dates for the 1998 national elimina¬ an atmosphere more conducive to women, tions of the National High School minorities and younger veterans in general. Oratorical Contest, the second under the The report examined every phase of the American Legion new contest format. The contest will be organization, from Post to County, conducted April 17-19, 1998 at the Indiana Department and National levels, and urged Founder dies University-Purdue University (IUPUI) strenuous outreach efforts to spread the Conference Center and Hotel, Indianapolis. word about the great youth programs the at age 96 • Mailed official match programs for the organization offers and membership bene¬ 1998 Junior Position Air Rifle National fits such as the Eye Care Plan of America Championship. At present there are 424 and RxAmerica prescription drug discount HARTFORD CITY, Ind.—John T. clubs nationwide in 51 Departments program. Improved outreach efforts also Gable, 96, a Founder of The American enrolled in the program. The nationals will should be expended to inform veterans Legion, died Oct. 13. Gable’s passing be conducted Aug. 5-8 at the U.S. Olympic about the range of service offered veterans leaves only Minnesota’s George W. Training Center, Colorado Springs, Colo. who need help with a disability claim, home Bentley as the last liv¬ The Department of Colorado plans to host loan or other assistance. ing participant present an NRA Coaches Certification course Nov. NEC members assured the report would at the founding of the 8-9. not be filed and forgotten. After thanking nation’s largest veter¬ • Distributed a questionnaire to 160 Boys Ludwig and his committee for their efforts, ans’ organization in State directors, chairmen and program vol¬ NEC members approved Res. 23, assigning Paris in 1919. unteers attending the 62nd annual confer¬ the report to the National Internal Affairs The National Exec¬ ence Oct. 10-12 in Indianapolis. It revealed Commission. The commission was tasked utive Committee that finding adequate funding sources for with turning the report recommendations mourned Gable’s their Boys State program is the single into a plan of action in time for the NEC’s death, the news reach¬ biggest challenge contest officials face. 1998 Spring Meetings. ing NEC members as Gable Conference Chairman Robert Turner, The 21st Century report also urged they conducted their Georgia, presented $1,500 scholarships to Legionnaires to pursue the New Post Fall Meetings in Indianapolis. The NEC 1997 Boys Nation President Sterling Formation/Revitalization initiative begun passed a memorializing resolution in his Dowling, South Carolina, and Vice last year. The effort is yielding results, evi¬ honor as a final salute to a fallen comrade President Jason Cipriano, New Hampshire. denced by the following statistics listed in who was among the last representatives Educational Communications, Inc. provided the National Membership & Post Activities of the WW I generation. the scholarships. Committee report: 12 Departments partici¬ Gable was a teenager when he joined Members of the National Commission pating; an total of 14 new Posts chartered, the Navy to serve his country during ka Administration (VHA). To meet deficit on Children & Youth learned just how vital another 29 Posts saved from extinction, and World War I. In March 1919 he was of reduction goals VA must make due with a a role Temporary Financial Assistance an estimated 1,000 new or renewed mem¬ among several hundred servicemen who of no-growth budget the next five years. (TFA) plays in veterans with minor children bers in the Legion comer. attended an organizing caucus of what ;e, That’s unacceptable to veterans and their at home. Figures as of Sept. 30 show staff The program continues to gamer interest would become The American Legion, ng dependents who, after all, didn’t create the had processed 541 applications totaling from Departments whose members observe conducted in the Cirque de Paris. Gable budget deficit. $285,551. That represents direct financial the achievements of those already enrolled. was the driver for an officer who attended ad “VA is saying we’ve got this big pie and help for 1,101 children of veterans so far Training sessions were scheduled in the Paris Caucus. ;r- we’re going to slice it up for the benefit of this year. October with membership officials from the After the war, Gable returned to ag the most veterans,” said Tom Cadmus, vice • The American Legion/McGruff Safe Departments of Pennsylvania and Iowa. Indiana, where he married, raised a fami¬ :w chairman of the National VA&R Kids program is gaining momentum, with Progress with this promising effort will be ly and operated Gable Plumbing and i’s Commission. Cadmus, filling in for ailing numerous requests from Post and Auxiliary monitored closely, says M&PA Chairman Heating Supply. Gable helped organize es VA&R Commission Chairman Chet Stellar, members seeking the program guide that Roger Tingler. and was a 79-year member of American ia- said the balanced budget agreement outlines how to make your community safer Internal Affairs Commission Chairman Legion Post 159 in Hartford City, the id requires the VHA to continue meeting the for children. Herman Harrington thanked those who con¬ county seat of Blackford County, located health-care needs of high priority veterans • Commission members reviews its Areas tributed to the National Emergency Fund 75 miles northeast of Indianapolis. on without the prospect of additional funding, of Concern for 1997-98—Family Emphasis, during Fall Meetings. The fund, which Funeral services for Mr. Gable were all Cost-cutting may save money, but it Juvenile Delinquency Prevention and assists Legionnaires affected by natural dis¬ conducted Oct. 17, with burial in the won’t solve VA’s continuing challenge to Missing Children—and reviewed all C&Y- asters, has granted $2,446,930 in short-term Hartford City Cemetery. offer veterans quality care, and holds little related programs. As Halloween financial help to members and Posts since prospect for improving access to care for approached, the Halloween Safety program the fund was revived in 1989. ed more veterans and their dependents, as continued to be a popular offering for local This year alone, staff processed more $10,000; Sons of The American Legion (by :nt envisioned by the Legion’s GI Bill of communities. Members are considering than 1,400 requests for help from flood- National Convention resolution), $10,000; he Health. The VA’s “pie” for fiscal 1998 revising the program format and materials stricken areas in Minnesota, North Dakota, Department of Georgia, $5,000; ne totals $40.44 billion, which includes $17 for next year. and Midwestern states along the Ohio A, billion for medical care. Cadmus also sub- Department of Connecticut, $5,000 • Finally, The American Legion Child River. Of those, 1,352 individual grants and (Department also contributed $5,000 to the th mitted two special reports compiled by Welfare Foundation announced its grant 17 to repair damaged Post homes, made World War II Memorial fund); American National VA&R Division staff. awards to 14 non-profit groups, grants total outlays a whopping $1,464,000. Legion China Post No. 1, $2,000; Central One examined effectiveness of the which support. Now in its 43rd year, the The following groups made donations to Caucus, $1,132; Post 29, Arizona, $1,000; Legion’s comprehensive program of ser¬ CWF grants this year total $249,350. The the National Emergency Fund at Fall Post 42, Arizona, $1,000; S.A.L. vices to veterans, their dependents and sur¬ list of recipients, and their contributions to Meetings: Department of Michigan, Detachment of Alaska, $ 1,000. □ vivors, including the role of Department child welfare, will be published in the Nov. Service Officers and network of accredited 6 Dispatch. service officers. The other report studies the impact on health-care delivery offered vet¬ Internal Affairs erans through the Veterans Equitable There will be no typical Legionnaire of > Resource Allocation (VERA) model. the 21st century, but thanks to the work of a special ad hoc committee headed by Past Americanism & Children & Youth National Commander Daniel Ludwig, s Highlights of the National Americanism Legion leaders will have an idea how to Commission and the National Commission motivate tomorrow’s Legion leaders. on Children & Youth meetings include: Ludwig summarized findings of the Ad • Approval of a change in format for Hoc Committee, The American Legion in American Legion Baseball. With NEC the 21st Century, in a presentation before approval, the commission adopted a recom¬ the NEC Oct. 15. The 14-page study, under¬ mendation from the Baseball and taken last January, studied the needs of vet¬ Recreation Subcommittee to adopt the erans to determine how the Legion can Olympic “round robin” tournament format remain relevant in its program offerings and for regional and World Series tournaments, service to veterans, their families and com¬ beginning in 1998. munities. The survey found younger veter¬ Boston Red Sox first baseman Mo ans know something about The American HISTORY REPEATS: Alternate NECman Department commander during the term of Frank Sickle Jr. stands between a pair of PNC Flon. Daniel Foley’s, right, in 1963-64. Vaughn was named the 1997 American Legion from family members, but said the , Legion Baseball Player of the Year. Past National Commanders from Frank Sickle Jr. was Department comman¬ Legion should be more responsive to the Minnesota. The link is that Sickle’s father, der from New Jersey in 1995-96 when PNC Vaughn played Legion ball in Norwalk, nation’s changing demographics and create Conn. Frank Sickle Sr. served as New Jersey’s Daniel Ludwig, left, was top man. 6 DISPATCH LEGISLATIVE Oct. 23, 1997

Lawmakers playing catch-up Con

in the V. Cong as new fiscal year begins servi death tobac Sacramento, which got $48 private sector to help homeless vets. ans s million for building, clinical The Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee approved: relate and other improvements; • S 987 would provide annual cost-of-living adjustment T1 Mare Island, Valejo, and (COLA) for compensation, dependency and indemnity spoke Martinez facilities were benefits for service-connected disabled veterans and depen¬ to av authorized $7 million to dents. A provision to end compensation for tobacco-related not p improve outpatient services. ailments has drawn criticism from some veterans’ groups, over £ . Lease funds were included including The American Legion;. Ame for outpatient clinics in • S 714 would extend the Native American Home Loan Com CAPITOL HILL Jacksonville, Fla.; Boston, Program through 2003, authorize outreach and extend for woul Canton, Ohio; Portland, and two years VA authority for services to homeless veterans ing a ment he federal government’s new fiscal year that began Tulsa, Okla. Information and its authority to provide noninstitutional alternatives to T management field offices in Birmingham, Ala., and Salt nursing home care, tobac Oct. 1 didn’t get off to a running start. More like a to o stop and then start, thanks to the protracted negotia¬ Lake City also were approved. • S 986 would authorize VA major medical construction Coun tions between Congress and the White House over the bal¬ The bill was one of three passed Oct. 6 on voice votes. and leasing projects, establish a VA Medicare In anced budget agreement. One dealt with sexual harassment and discrimination with¬ Reimbursement demonstration project, adjust the formula ion h The negotiations took up so much time during the first in the Department of Veterans Affairs. The measure, HR for recouping military incentive payments from VA com¬ for a session of the 105th Congress that the appropriations 1703, would set up an Office of Employment pensation and authorize intra-VA fund transfers for med¬ was 1 process lagged badly behind the calendar. Instead of being Discrimination Complaint Adjudication at VA’s central ical examinations, T1 ready to go at the start of the new fiscal year, by Sept. 30 office. The director of that office would be required to • S 464 would allow revision of benefits decisions based legisl only four of the 13 funding measures required to keep the report any suspected retaliatory action against employees on clear and unmistakable error (CUE). servie federal government running were ready for President Bill to the VA secretary or deputy secretary. • S 623 would provide burial/funeral expense benefits to eran’ Clinton’s signature. To avoid another disastrous govern¬ An amendment added by the House Veterans’ Affairs certain former members of the Philippine Commonwealth co us ment shutdown, the House and Senate each approved con¬ Committee would authorize $400,000 to create a six-mem¬ Army. A] tinuing resolution measures, which Clinton signed in time ber independent panel to review VA equal opportunity and • S 730 would retroactively award, increase and index Cong to avert a shutdown. sexual harassment complaint procedures. A VA official Medal of Honor pensions. settle Following are some legislative highlights from the ses¬ termed the bill unnecessary because VA is creating a reso¬ • S 801 would modify VA procedures for resolving com¬ ensu: sion that impact veterans: lution management office to deal with employee com¬ plaints of unlawful employment discrimination/sexual comp Earthquakes will be a smaller hazard to patients at one plaints. harassment in VA. ans ve VA medical center near the New Madrid fault. Some $34.6 Also approved was HR 2206, which would authorize • S 813 would impose criminal penalties for theft or van¬ ed di million authorized under HR 2571 will go to complete a set-aside of $5 million for pilot programs at 10 VA med¬ dalism at cemeteries run by VA, DoD or the Interior in R< improvements at the Memphis, Tenn., center to strengthen ical centers to serve Gulf War veterans who suffer from Department. 1997 it against quake damage. The bill authorized $89.6 million undiagnosed illnesses. The measure would consolidate and • S 999, would require VA to provide mammography Th in VA medical center construction and $15.7 million for reauthorize residential or halfway-house care for homeless low t! major medical facility leases. veterans who are mentally ill or drug- or alcohol-depen- whicl Among the sites scheduled for improvements under the dent. Another provision of HR 2206 would codify VA’s See page 7 DATELINE, active bill are California’s McClellan Hospital at Mather Field, authority to work with state and local agencies and with the asked to ck ment with : De ‘Learning Network’ tunes in to flag-protection issue mone suffei “IS By TRENT D. McNEELEY us situations in life that are meant to be, on th Contributing Editor “The Legion did a tremendous job with the flag-protection issue. It was a though they don’t always happen at the stance same time,” Frost said. She believes the die its oh When the Citizens Flag Alliance was tough topic, but [Legion and CFA officials] handled it beautifully. was cast for her participation in this effort payer founded three years ago it was with one when Uncle Buzzy told her to take care of Ge intent: to secure passage of a constitutional I’m still getting mail praising the class. ” his flag. “He said, ‘This flag means so cases amendment returning to the American peo¬ much more than telling people I’m a veter¬ systei ple the right to protect the flag of the Marty Frost, president an. You must guard and protect the flag, “Sine United States from physical desecration. just like I did.’ He didn’t earn a Purple to pa Like the CFA, The American Legion Selective Learning Network Heart, might be considered insignificant by illnes has always championed flag-related causes, many. But he had the utmost respect for towai with Americanism programs taking it right an estimated 150,000 students nationwide “We have a theme this year at Selective that flag and what it stood for,” she said. Jorda down to teaching proper respect and eti¬ watching. Learning Network,” said Mary Frost, presi¬ The Legion will continue to capitalize Tc quette when dealing with the symbol of “We had a truly fast-paced dialogue for dent of the company. “That theme is: What on electronic interaction with young VA i this nation. an hour and a half,” said Lee Harris, public it is to be a good American. The Legion Americans in other areas of interest. find ! Different missions, true, but closely relations deputy director for The American did a tremendous job with the flag-protec¬ Legion officials have been invited back for delay entwined. That’s why the Legion and the Legion and in-house coordinator of the tion issue. It was a tough topic, but [Legion another round or two at SLN. In Se CFA joined forces earlier this month to event. “After an opening statement we took and CFA officials] handled it beautifully. November, a group of Gulf War veterans Demc educate young people on the need for a questions and statements that ranged from I’m still getting mail praising the class.” will gather to speak about their experi¬ Veter flag-protection amendment. extremely supportive to extremely And the Selective Learning Network ences. After that, Harris expects to help stron On Oct. 7, CFA President Daniel S. opposed, just as you’d expect in America. will champion the cause itself, conducting conduct classes on veterans’ health care-, claim Wheeler, CFA Executive Director Marty When all is said and done, however, I think a write-in campaign from children to elect¬ possibly including the GI Bill of Health, In Justis and staff at American Legion no one will dispute that we got our mes¬ ed officials titled, What the American Flag and others. Rock National Headquarters in Indianapolis went sage across. The vast majority of the kids, Means to Me. Frost knows what it means to “We now have an electronic gateway recei online with the Missouri-based Selective like the vast majority of Americans, agree her, and to her late uncle. As he lay dying into the classrooms all across America,” cause Learning Network for some distance learn¬ that the American flag is a national treasure from cancer, one of his last requests was Harris said. “This will only help our mem¬ sole! ing. They conducted a 90-minute electronic worthy of protection. Hopefully Congress that she look after the flag that would soon bership, as local Posts work with neighbor¬ assun classroom session about flag protection, soon will listen to the will of the people on drape his coffin. hood schools and champion causes of con¬ foster with 12 schools actively participating and this issue,” Harris said. “My husband and I believe God gives cern to The American Legion.” □ Oct. 23, 1997 LEGION NEWS DISPATCH 7

several other veterans’ groups joined a similar to National Service Program bene¬ -SNUFF -DATELINE roundtable at the Commission on fits. Servicemembers and Veterans Transition • Allowing all active duty and reserve Continued from page 1 Continued from page 6 Assistance. The commission was created in component members to participate, and 1996 to review programs aiding the transi¬ considering military service as national tion to civilian life and to recommend service under Americorps, qualifying vet¬ in the processing of their claims.” screenings to women 40 and older (VA improvements. The meeting focused on the erans for full educational benefits under VA has had legislation introduced in currently offers screenings to women aged Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) as well as that program regardless of whether or note Congress to preclude the granting of any 50-69). strengthening transition programs. a veteran receives Montgomery GI Bill service-connection for any disability or Hearings scheduled Sept. 30 by Senate Legion recommendations included: benefits. □ death that is caused, in whole or in part, by Veterans’ Affairs Committee on the nomi¬ • Making monthly benefits for college tobacco use. It also would apply to veter¬ nation of as Secretary of costs non-taxable. Chairman Charles Pesso, New York, ans seeking VA health care for smoking- Veterans Affairs were canceled at the last • Allowing participants to contribute National Legislative Commission related ailments. minute by committee chairman Arlen $1,200 monthly for a minimum of one year The American Legion’s chief Specter, a Pennsylvania Republican. and a maximum of four. spokesman believes that VA is attempting Gober, deputy secretary since 1993, has • Giving each participant a $ 1,200 month¬ to avoid its primary duty. “The VA should been nominated to replace . ly educational benefit for each month con¬ Correction not put its fiscal and operational priorities The cancellation put several nomina¬ tributed. over those they are mandated to serve— tions on hold, including Richard Griffin to • Allowing National Guard and Reserves America’s veterans,” says National A key word was omitted from a reso¬ be VA inspector general, Joseph contribute at half the active duty levels and Commander Anthony G. Jordan. “VA lution (No. 214, Americanism) pub¬ Thompson to be VA undersecretary of ben¬ receive half benefits. would do well to place equal effort in seek¬ lished on page 5 of the Sept. 18, 1997 efits, William Greene to be an associate • Allowing benefits over the same length ing a separate and comprehensive settle¬ Dispatch. judge on the Court of Veterans Appeals of time that the member contributed. ment by the federal government with the Our reference to Res. 214 left out the and Espiridion Borrego to be VA assistant • Allowing veterans to receive after 10 tobacco companies, rather than attempting word, “prohibiting” in the resolved cla- secretary for employment and training. years, without interest, the unused contri¬ to overturn its own 1993 General sue, which reads, “The American Legion Gober served as director of the bution either in cash or an IRS tax credit. Counsel’s ruling.” opposes the policy of prohibiting the Department of Veterans Affairs • Allowing contributions throughout a In 1993, a VA’s General Counsel opin¬ placement of American flags on individ¬ while President Bill Clinton was governor. military career and benefits after three ual veterans’ graves in national cemeter¬ ion held that a claim for service connection years. On Oct. 16 The American Legion and ies.” We regret the error. for a smoking-related disability or death • Allowing health and child care benefits, was legally possible. The Legion formally opposes the VA legislation or any proposal that would deny service connection to veterans when a vet¬ eran’s ill health or death is related to tobac¬ 1998 Membership Totals as of Oct. 16,1997 co use that began during military service. Also, the Legion urges the VA and (Next Target Date: Pearl Harbor Day; 75 % —Dec. 10,1997) Congress to undertake a comprehensive settlement with tobacco companies to ensure adequate funding for disability Norris W. Preston, National Vice Commander Erwin L. Williams, National Vice Commander compensation and medical care for veter¬ Department Target Actual Goa] Department Target Actual Goal ans who develop or die from tobacco-relat¬ KANSAS 52,857 35,746 67.628 MARYLAND 82,194 52,223 63.536 ed diseases. These positions are expressed IOWA 76,601 48,534 63.359 DELAWARE 9,915 6,255 63.086 in Res. 217, adopted by delegates to the SOUTH DAKOTA 27,617 17,395 62.987 NEW JERSEY 80,808 49,550 61.318 1997 National Convention at Orlando. NEBRASKA 60,451 37,381 61.837 RHODE ISLAND 10,577 6,434 60.830 MINNESOTA 122,805 73,700 60.014 MASSACHUSETTS 68,549 41,440 60.453 The Legion encourages the VA to fol¬ MISSOURI 65,796 39,091 59.412 NEW HAMPSHIRE 25,321 15,182 59.958 low the lead of the Department of Defense, NORTH DAKOTA 25,032 14,148 56.520 CONNECTICUT 31,798 18,578 58.425 which also faces the issue of smoking by TEXAS 90,967 50,638 55.666 MAINE 26,663 15,393 57.732 active-duty personnel. The Pentagon has OKLAHOMA 30,713 16,817 54.755 DIST. OF COL 3,596 2,066 57.453 asked the Clinton administration to allow it VERMONT 17,350 9,735 56.110 to claim a share of the $15 billion settle¬ TOTALS 552,839 333,450 60.316 PENNSYLVANIA 259,765 142,243 54.758 ment tobacco companies recently made NEW YORK 202,683 105,187 51.897 with several states. Defense officials say they would use the Robert E. Vass, Jr., National Vice Commander TOTALS 819,219 464,286 56.674 money to pay for smoking-related illnesses Department Target Actual Goal suffered by active duty troops. LOUISIANA 38,979 23,938 61.413 “Now is not the time for VA to remain VIRGINIA 51,436 30,957 60.185 Conrad Chisholm, National Vice Commander on the sidelines, but to take a proactive NORTH CAROLINA 47,442 28,388 59.837 Department Target Actual. Goal stance,” notes Jordan. “The VA must meet ARKANSAS 23,343 13,872 59.427 IDAHO 11,418 6,577 57.602 its obligations to veterans and to the tax¬ WEST VIRGINIA 28,448 16,697 58.693 ARIZONA 38,232 21,522 56.293 TENNESSEE 34,740 UTAH 9,752 payers of this nation.” 19,999 57.568 5,485 56.245 MISSISSIPPI 19,532 11,191 57.296 OREGON 28,692 16,069 56.005 Gober’s claims that smoking-related ALABAMA 24,975 14,063 56.308 CALIFORNIA 146,729 81,724 55.697 cases will hamper VA’s claims processing FLORIDA 120,065 67,053 55.847 WYOMING 8,118 4,506 55.506 system also met with a Legion response. GEORGIA 43,744 24,147 55.201 COLORADO 25,484 14,096 55.313 “Since 1993, the VA has had the authority SOUTH CAROLINA 24,739 13,411 54.210 WASHINGTON 39,083 21,192 54.223 to pay compensation for tobacco-related PUERTO RICO 9,279 4,651 50.124 NEVADA 6,922 3,745 54.103 illnesses, but has made little or no progress HAWAII 3,421 1,821 53.230 toward preparing for workload increases,” NEW MEXICO 14,248 7,554 53.018 Jordan said. TOTALS 466,722 268,367 57.500 MONTANA 12,511 6,630 52.993 To that end, the Legion suggests that ALASKA 8,721 4,472 51.279 VA immediately establish a task force to MEXICO 1,794 546 30.435 find solutions to the claims backlog and Gerald L. Moore, National Vice Commander PHILIPPINES 2,742 426 15.536 delays. Department Target Actual Goal Sen. Jay Rockefeller, ranking WISCONSIN 77,676 49,840 64.164 TOTALS 357,867 196,365 54.871 Democratic minority member of the Senate OHIO 160,150 99,129 61.898 INDIANA 136,409 84,418 Veterans’ Affairs Committee, says he has 61.886 ILLINOIS 153,084 87,987 57.476 strong concerns about denying tobacco MICHIGAN 95,230 52,851 55.498 claims made by former service members. KENTUCKY 32,705 17,387 53.163 In a recent written statement, FRANCE 2,551 1,035 40.572 Rockefeller noted: Barring veterans from receiving compensation for illnesses TOTALS 657,805 392,647 59.690 Target Actual % Goal caused by tobacco assumes that smoking is Grand solely a matter of personal choice and Total: 2,854,452 1,655,115 57.984 assumes that the military had no role in fostering addiction.” □ 8 DISPATCH Oct. 23, 1997

National Adjutant s Newsline Fr°^ dEsk of r°bert w. spanogle Flag’s history inspires children’s respect The door opens and the visitor quietly strolls into the commander of Illinois’ Sixth District. be ordered by writing: Citizens Flag Alliance, Inc., P.O. room. A wide grin blossoms across his face and he “Teach and reinforce respect among our children and Box 7197, Indianapolis, IN 46207-7197). clutches an armful of treasures he will soon share that’s how they learn to be good citizens,” Palmer told a “We have the unstinting support from educators and with his knee-high hosts, who are at play on the floor. The National Headquarters staff member during the recent administrators,” Murdoch says. “We’ve scheduled appear¬ youngsters return the visitor’s smile and stare at the badge¬ American Legion National Convention in Orlando. ances again this year in schools and are planning presenta¬ decorated blue cap he’s wearing. “Understanding what our flag means is a part of getting tions in neighboring school districts and with local Scout Larry Palmer, commander of Chicago’s North Loop them heading in the right direction.” troops.” Educating the young and old—and everyone else Post 949, doesn’t hold an advanced degree in childhood Travel east of the “Windy City” by some 850 miles to in between—has been an integral part of our ongoing cam¬ education or psychology. He doesn’t follow the views of paign to secure a constitutional amendment to protect our that small yet enormously smug circle that clings to the flag. arrogant notion that anything goes and is acceptable in There are well-organized and well-financed With Legion family members joining forces with other American society. members of the Citizens Flag Alliance, we have forged a But make no mistake about it: Mr. Palmer is a blue-rib¬ groups who want to derail the flag-protection strong chain of support of Americans who believe in and bon educator when it comes to teaching children about the desire the only legal remedy against flag desecration. history and meaning of the American flag. He understands amendmentand within these groups are narrow We’re at the half-way mark on Capitol Hill in returning the most important and enduring lessons in life are learned this important issue to the American people. The amend¬ at an early age, and that there are absolute rights and minds who believe they know what’s bestfor ment cleared the House last summer and the action now wrongs that all of us must live by. shifts to the Senate. For the last four years, Palmer, an Army and Air Force America and Americans. As you know, we’re not unopposed on this issue. Some veteran of the Korean War, has taken his flag message to opponents have honorable intentions and are genuinely kindergarten students at Ogden School. His visits coincide concerned what the amendment is all about. But there are with Flag Day observances, certainly an appropriate time the New York City area, and witness what Vince Murdoch well-organized and well-financed groups who want to for this type of education. During his half-hour presenta¬ and other flag enthusiasts are doing to steer young people derail the flag-protection amendment, and within these tions, he takes the children on a voyage to discover the his¬ in the right direction. With the permission of groups are narrow minds who believe they know what’s tory of Old Glory, and he explains what the stars, stripes Northport/East Northport School District, Mr. Murdoch best for America and Americans. They sneer at traditional and colors symbolize. and other members of East Northport Post 694 launched values, and they cheer when they see those values erode. Palmer kneels down on the floor so that he’s eye-to-eye a Flag Appreciation Program for fourth-grade students. Within these conclaves of cynicism echoes an agenda that with the students. For many of the pupils, it is their first Murdoch and Fenton J. O’Malley, former Post 694 com¬ is much larger than spiking the amendment. lesson about the world’s best-known flag. Ogden’s student mander, educate students the old-fashioned way: Show- The bottom line is that every single inch of ground we body is racially and ethnically diverse, and many are the and-tell. During their presentation, O’Malley traces the have gained in the flag campaign has been earned—earned children of consulate workers, hailing from countries such nation’s succession of flags from the American Revolution because Legion family members know there’s more at as South Korea, Jamaica, Poland and Australia. When his to the current 50-star banner. They also use The American stake than just protecting Old Glory. So much more. Guys presentation is over and the questions are answered, he Legion-produced video kit, George Learns the Pledge, to like Larry Palmer, Vince Murdoch and Fenton O’Malley gives each boy and girl a tiny flag. capture the interest of youngsters and explain why it is are on the front lines and helping to bring us new victories Palmer didn’t leave empty-handed after his last visit to important to protect the flag from acts of physical desecra¬ every day in small yet significant ways. Ogden School. The students recited the Pledge of tion. (National Commander Jordan recently extended the They’re teaching our children history, respect and val¬ Allegiance and sang America, the Beautiful for the past offer of these kits at a special price of $10 each. They may ues. They’re placing stars in the eyes of our future. □

Charles W. Hill Chairman Edward E. Kennerd, 82, died Raymond G. Cliver Q £ (Kansas) July 14. A resident of Dothan, Ala., (Texas) 5 n- <2 Charles W. Hill, 98, Topeka, Kan., died Kennerd was a longtime Legionnaire with 2 K <£> Raymond G. Cliver, 76, Amarillo, to Sept. 9, Department officials announced 51 continuous years membership. Texas, died Sept. 30. Cliver, a World War O < ISo? recently. Hill, a World War II Army veter¬ DC N < z . At the time of his death the World War II Navy veteran, was a member of Post 54 an, was a member of Post 1 with 80 contin¬ II Naval Reserve veteran was serving as with 53 continuous years membership. II o. uous years membership. vice chairman of the National Cliver’s lengthy American Legion ser¬ 0(3 ja dc z Z DC . iuin ™3 Hill was a member of the National Americanism Council, a position he held vice record on a National level includes a O (/) a S Distinguished Guests Committee. since 1996. On a National level, Kennerd stint as chairman of his VA&R regional For the Department of Kansas, Hill also served as vice chairman of the Foreign committee, and as vice chairman of the served six years as Historian. Relations Council, and as a member of the Distinguished Guests Committee and the Expressions of condolence can be sent Security Council, the Law and Order Security Council. to: 4200 SW Drury Ln., Topeka, KS Committee and the M&PA Committee. For the Department of Texas, Cliver 66604. Kennerd served the Department of served as Department Division comman¬ Mexico as Security chairman, der, and as chairman of the Security, Edward E. Kennerd Americanism chairman and Sergeant-at- Employment and Veterans’ Preference (Mexico) arms. Send cards to: PO Box 6841, committees. Send cards to: 1915 National Americanism Council Vice Dothan, AL 36302-6841. Manhattan St., Amarillo, TX 79103-4222.

Peter G. Hass Jr. (Iowa) Past National Sergeant-at-Arms Peter G. Hass Jr., 82, Miles, Iowa, died Oct. 8, Legionnaires who want to voice their Past Department of Missouri Department officials announced recently. support for the World War II Memorial Commander Aubrey Sullivan has suffered The World War II Army veteran was a CCC have a new number to call to reach offi¬ a bout of ill health and would appreciate member of Post 677 with 51 continuous ®«o cials at the American Battle Monuments hearing from his friends in The American years membership. Commission. Legion. Hass served The American Legion on a The commission recently relocated from His home address is: 320 Willmore Dr., National level as Sergeant-at-Arms (1985- Washington to across the Potomac River in Lake Ozark, MO 65049. 86), under Past National Commander Dale Arlington, Va. The street address is: An Illinois Post was a late addition to L. Renaud. Hass also was a member of the American Battle Monuments Commission, the list of 26 King-Size American Legion Law and Order committee and the National Court House Plaza No. 2, Suite 500, 2300 Posts (2,000 or more members) published Security Council. Hass served Iowa as Clarendon Blvd., Arlington, VA 22201- in the Sept. 18 Dispatch. Add to the roster Department Sergeant-at-Arms from 1961- 3361. The phone number is (703) 696- Springfield Post 32, Springfield, Ill., 62. Send cards to: PO Box 307, Miles, IA 6902 (office); or (703) 696-6666 (FAX). which boasts 2,032 members. □ 52064-0307. □