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o o 3 3 9 9 9 9 7 7 5 5 5 5 g g 0 0 n n e 2 | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | January/February 2014 | WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE Chaplain (USPS 010637) is published monthly Jennifer L. Smith, State Chaplain except February, May, August, and December by The American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary, FOLLOW THE LEADER Department of Michigan, 212 N. Verlinden, Lansing, MI 48915-1297. By now, we are in 2014 and I am hoping this publication their respective leadership terms end. Most importantly, the Periodical postage paid at Lansing, MI, finds you well. This is especially true after the hustle and bus- best leaders do not let ego overwhelm reason or ethics. In our and additional mailing offices. tle of the holidays, which I pray were also joyous. Now, bor- jobs and lives, many of us have seen those too self-absorbed Subscription $10.00 non-members, rowing a bit from the style of departed WWII comrade and with their own needs. However, no one can lead you forward members receive the publication as journalist, Andy Rooney, I ask with an intent tone, ‘Have you when they spend their time looking at themselves in the mir- part of their dues. POSTMASTER: Send ever wondered what makes a good leader? ror; that view is narrow and (literally) backwards. Instead, As address changes to Michigan Okay, if you are still following along, bless you and I will Philippians 2:3–5 ESV relates, “Do nothing from selfish Legionnaire, Department of Michigan, get to the point [grin]. In terms of your Posts, Districts, and ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more sig- 212 N. Verlinden, Lansing, MI 48915- Units, having the proper motivation is key. I have long asked nificant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his 1297. why each of you joined our Legion Family. When you hon- own interests, but also to the interests of others.” estly evaluate your motivations, I hope you discover they Therefore, let us endeavor to be good leaders and follow- DEADLINE DATES include a need and passion to help others found within the ers with a focus upon worthy Legion goals, as both roles are JAN/FEB 2014 - DECEMBERs 1, 2013 Four Pillars. Proverbs 3:27 ESV advises, “Do not withhold needed for organizational sustainability and all can posi- good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power tively lead-by-example. We certainly need those that are Circulation: 97,687 Printed: 12-22-13 • Mailed: 12-26-13 to do it.” That trait is a great foundation, with camaraderie, willing to try new things and/or improve upon existing tech- satisfaction from giving, and building upon a noble legacy niques to increase membership, better serve others, and added bonuses. ensure we remain strong. In short -- Good leaders are also LEGION STATE HEADQUARTERS I humbly assert that the best leaders are selfless and not able followers. Let us support each other and always push for- DIRECTORY selfish; decisive but open to consider other ideas; caring for ward as we follow and lead. others and seeking cooperation; willing to mentor and Looking forward to seeing you at the Winter Conference. PUBLISHER: PATRICK W. LAFFERTY empower; and desire that their organization lasts long after May God richly bless you. EDITOR: MARK SUTTON

The American Legion Dept. of Michigan 212 N. Verlinden, Lansing, MI 48915 EAGLE SCOUT AWARD $1000 and $10,000 (517) 371-4720 ¥ Fax: (517) 371-2401 Web Site: www.michiganlegion.org Eagle Scout Awards are due by March 1st of this year. Remember the Email: [email protected] Department is now giving $1000 to the winner at the Department level. Legion and SAL Membership - 24 - [email protected] Programs, Boys State and Scholarships - 11 - They then go on to compete for the $10,000 National Eagle Scout Award. [email protected] Legion Finance - 17 - Get your applications in see more at www.michiganlegion.org/scholarships [email protected] Baseball, Website and History - 23 - March 1st, 2014 [email protected] Veterans Service - 12 - Wednesdays only Deadline Public Relations - 16 - MI STATE OFFICERS [email protected] OPT OUT FORM State Commander ...... Raymond Moore, Lake City Administration - 13 - [email protected] State Adjutant...... Patrick W. Lafferty, Farwell I would like to view the Legionnaire 1st Zone...... Ernest Berry Yes! online at www.michiganlegion.org instead 2nd Zone ...... Jerry Andrus Do you have a photo you would like of receiving it through the mail. Please per- 3rd Zone...... August Miele to submit for the Michigan Legionnaire manently remove me from the Legionnaire 4th Zone ...... Gary Hlavka and/or website use? E-mail it to us at mailing list. This option will not effect any 5th Zone...... David Spencer [email protected] or mail it to other Legion mailings. Finance Officer ...... George Dolan, Grand Blanc department attn: Mark Sutton. Historian ...... Mitch Louth, St. Johns Name: ______Please keep the photo at least 200 dpi or Chaplain ...... Jennifer Smith, Lansing larger. If you are submiting a hard copy Membership No.: ______Sergeant-at-Arms ...... Michael Buda, Dearborn photo, please note photos printed from Judge Advocate...... F. Garrit Veldman, Muskegon home printers cannot be used, nor can Address: ______National Executive Committeeman photos clipped from newspapers...... John Skinner, Schoolcraft City: ______State: ______Zip code: ______We look for photos showing Legion Alt. National Executive Committeeman caps in action whenever possible...... Roger Webster, Croton E-mail: ______Interested in placing an ad in the Immediate Past Commander Signature: ______Michigan Legionnaire? Please Contact ...... Thomas Brown, Oscoda Mark Sutton at: info@michiganle- Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Director Please mail this form to: The American Legion, Department of Michigan, gion.org or by phone at 517-371-4720 ...... James Topps, Adrian 212 N. Verlinden Ave, Lansing, MI 48915 ext 16. Membership Director...... Larry Money, Buchanan or fax this form to (517) 371-2401 Public Relations Director . Mark Sutton, Eaton Rapids WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | January/February 2014 | 3 Headquarters Raymond Moore, State Commander Community involvement matters A NEW YEAR TO PUBLICIZE OUR ORGANIZATION Here we are another place to gather for a GREAT low up to see that some publicity is Family beginning a new MEAL. This event was attended by generated in your local media to tell And NO, I haven’t forgotten the calendar year in not only me but also the Department your story? Each of these events Sons of The American Legion. Their which we can con- Auxiliary President and the Sons of should have had some prior notifica- Commander or his representative was tinue to promote The American Legion Commander. tion to the media and additional noti- present at all of these functions. You our Organization. We all had a hearty meal and cama- fication after the event. This is how we all should know that our Sons are pro- However we need raderie with these Veterans. My hat is will generate participation by the non- viding personal, monetary and what- to continue to com- off to the Legion Family at Post 200 for veteran, non-member Veteran to sup- ever other kind of support that may be plete the mission of providing this meal and comradeship port those fundraising efforts we available to make these events hap- our current for 44 years now. What a great way to undertake to pay for these events and pen along with carrying out their own Raymond Moore American Legion meet the pillars of our organization, hopefully also get that non-member programs in support of our American State Commander year. You all know and what a great way to publicize what Veteran to join us so our next event can Legion Family. the need to renew, our Organization does. be even larger and far reaching. As we now go forward into a new reinstate and recruit new members if We also were present at the Great The Auxiliary has been holding calendar year I hope we can all con- we are to continue our programs. Lakes National Cemetery on their annual Christmas Gift Shops at tinue to work together for the contin- Have you lined up contestants for November 11th for a very solemn the VA Hospitals and the State Veteran uing Mission with which our founders Boys State, Student Trooper, remembrance of those who have pre- Homes. Again, I was privileged to envisioned. These few that are men- Oratorical, Girls State? Are you pro- ceded us. I trust each of you also attend the opening at the Grand tioned seem to show that we continue moting applications for Wilson and attended a remembrance somewhere. Rapids Home. My hat is off to the to meet their expectations and the Brewer Scholarships? Have you deter- There have been many District Auxiliary members who work so hard many more that have not been men- mined how to fund these very impor- tours, meetings and events where I to co-ordinate this undertaking. What tioned will only add to the legacy. tant programs? have learned of many ways in which a feeling to see these patients and Our mission now is to tell the tale I was privileged to attend a dinner our members are fulfilling the true members being assisted in the ability and continue the legacy. I know we at Taylor Post 200 at Thanksgiving intention of those who met and organ- to choose gifts to present to their fam- can make it happen. I look forward to wherein the Post Family provided din- ized this Organization so many years ily members, knowing that this may be many more visits and learning many ner for Veterans who are patients at the ago. the only gifts they are able to provide. more ways in which all of our mem- Detroit VAMC and homeless or other Having noted all of that, I just won- Way to go Auxiliary and thanks for bership is spreading the word and Veterans who may not have had der how much effort is exerted in a fol- being a part of The American Legion doing the good deeds.

Patrick W. Lafferty, State Adjutant The IRS Rules about DD214’s has been clarified Over the last 6 months many have ization. tion. By marking the military service era and signing had questions and concerns about 2. A document that shows the dues structure and the application the member certifies they meet the the maintaining of DD-214’s on file classes of memberships. requirements of the organization. Keep stored in a for every single member in the post. 3. The documentary information used by the organ- locked box, file cabinet, or other secure location. Based on the “Field Guide” of an ization to create the membership list(s) noted above. For SAL IRS agent there was confusion and Organizations should be informed that to satisfy Same rules apply above and we recommend each concern with the requirements. this request they may provide membership appli- squadron maintain a “SIGNED”, properly filled out Since August we have tried to pro- cations, membership cards, or other similar doc- SAL membership application. The application includes vide some guidance with the infor- uments, other than DD Form 214. the SAL Members signature that they subscribe to mation we had. As of December 4. Documents showing the organization’s policies the Constitution of the Sons of the American Legion, Patrick W. Lafferty State Adjutant 11th, 2013, we received the follow- and procedures on how it decides an individual is the veteran’s name, dates of military service and rela- ing information from the National eligible for membership, including documents tionship to the member. Keep stored in a locked box, Adjutant, TAL met with the IRS and the IRS has which show the means by which it enforces its file cabinet, or other secure location. If possible, make modified their field examination guide. The following membership requirements. a copy of the American Legion member’s membership is the points modified: card and attach to the SAL Membership application. Effective immediately, if an agent needs to determine If an agent possesses information that contradicts Maintaining some sort of proof that a member is the composition of membership of a veterans’ organ- documentary information provided or if the organi- qualified is the key to this process. The American ization, the agent shall initially request and collect zation fails to satisfy a reasonable request, agents may Legion has the 501 (c) 19 tax status; it is up to the IRS from the organization four sets of documents, as fol- then request DD Forms 214 or other discharge docu- to ensure organizations that state they want a certain lows: ments from the organization in order to ascertain com- tax status in the tax code maintain the requirements for pliance with the federal tax laws cited herein. DD that status. 1. Membership list(s) that contain the names of the Forms 214 must include the name, department, com- We understand the confusion this has brought, we members, the military service dates, and the sta- ponent and branch of service, and record of service hope this helps clarify the requirements. I would tus of each individual member. This status infor- dates. All other personal information may be redact- encourage every Post to be a part of MYLegion.org to mation is to indicate whether the member is active ed. handle their roster needs. FYI, “Green Sheets” of duty, veteran, cadet, or spouse. The organization We would recommend that Posts maintain members rosters will no longer be available after January 1st , may provide list(s) from its affiliated parent organ- “SIGNED”, properly filled out membership applica- 2014. 4 | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | January/February 2014 | WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG District Meetings 2013-2014 Membership 1st District Jan 12, 2014 @ Lapeer Post 16 Meeting @ Recruit, Reinstate, Renew Meetings begin @ 7PM 2:00PM March 3, 2014 @ Joe Louis Post #375 March 16, 2014 @ Caseville Post 543 Meeting AS IT SHOULD BE May 5th, 2014 Memorial Observance Joint @1:30PM By Larry Money, Membership Director Legion/Auxiliary May 18, 2014 @ Port Huron Post 8 – Mon. 5-26-2014 Annual Memorial Day Memorial Service-Meeting @1:30PM Here we are the start of a new year. Deer meat Program Roseland Park 10:30 am June @ State Convention - Livonia is in the freezer, thanksgiving has past us, we have ** 2901 N. Woodward Ave, Berkley, MI. 48072 just finished eating all of those Christmas leftovers June 2, 2014 @ Joe Louis Post #375 8th District and are ready to start our New Year resolutions. Address: 19486 Sherwood, Detroit, MI. 48234 Lunch at 1:30 PM As it should be. Meetings begin at 3 PM 2nd District Jan 5th, 2014 @ Greenville Post 101 But this is always the time that we need to start JAN12th, 2014 YPSILANTI POST # 282 working a little harder to reach those membership March 2, 2014 @ St. Johns Post 153 SAL meets @ 12:00pm May 4th, 2014 @ Bath Post 412 goals. This is the time of year that those who have yet to renew Service Officer Training @ 1:00pm seem to forget. American Legion meeting @ 2:00pm So we need to remind our Post membership teams that this 9th District MARCH 9th, 2014 @ TECUMSEH POST Exec Board @ Noon is where we start making those phone calls or knocking on # 34 doors and getting those teams out and start renewing our mem- Service Officer and Past Cmdr @ 12:30 p.m. SAL meets @ 12:00pm Lunch @ 1:00 p.m. bership numbers. This is also a great time to start recruiting new Service Officer Training @ 1:00pm General Membership @ 2:00 p.m. members, many veterans have had the opportunity to be home American Legion meeting @ 2:00pm for the holidays, how many have we seen and talked to? How MAY 18th, 2014 JACKSON POST # 29 March 8, 2014 @ Fife Lake Post 219 many did we try and recruit? SAL meets @ 11;00am May 10, 2014 @ Traverse City Post 35 The task is not going to be an easy one, but if we work togeth- Service Officer Training @ 12:00pm er for the common goal we have the ability to achieve. Memorial Service is @ 12:30pm, American 10th District The Department of Michigan has met or exceeded its cur- Legion meeting to follow. Lunch @ 12:00PM rent year’s membership goals, I believe we can once again be a Meeting @ 1:00PM 100% Department for 2013-2014. AS it should be. 3rd District Jan 4 , 2014 @ Mikado Post 254 Executive Board meetings at 11:30AM Mar. 1st ,2014 @ Prudenville Post 245 Recruiting Tip Regular District Meeting at 1:00PM May 4, 2014 @ Hale Post 422 Sunday, January 5, 2014- Captain Oscar Brady (MemorialService) Next time you meet a Veteran, instead of asking them if they Post No. 298, 228 N. 20th Street, Battle Creek, Jun. 7, 2014 @ TBA would like to join The American Legion, assume they are Michigan 49037- (269.963.7230)- Kitchen already a member and ask them “What Post do you belong to?” Open for Menu Items 11th & 12th District Assume they are already a member; the response you receive Sunday, March 2, 2014- Charlotte Post No. 42, January 18th, 2014 @ Iron Mountain Post 50 might open up an opportunity to clarify a misconception they 1000 W. Lawrence Highway, Charlotte, may have about The American Legion. Michigan 48813- (517.543.1334) This will be 16th District a Birthday/Memorial dinner ($7.00) held by Meetings Begin at 7:30 PM the Auxiliary with distinguished guests, please Jan 14th, 2014 @ Stitt Post 232 RSVP). Please join us for this eventful and Feb 11th, 2014 @ Fort Dearborn 364 * memorable occasion. March 12th, 2014 @ Wyandotte Post 217 Sunday, May 4, 2013- (3rd District Election)- April 8th, 2014 @ Trenton Post 426 * Kalamazoo Post No. 36, 1920 E. Kilgore May 13th, 2014 @ Lincoln Park Post 67 ** Service Road, Portage, Michigan- Dual (269.735.2544) June 10th, 2014 @ Garden City Post 396 * * Service Officer School 6:30 PM 4th District ** Memorial Service at 6:30 PM January 5, 2013 Buchanan Post# 51 March 2, 2013 Constantine Post# 223 17th District May 4, 2013 Bridgman Post#331 Meetings start @ 7PM We have a luncheon at these meeting at 12:30. 15-Jan @ Northville #147 Then our meetings start at 2:00. 19-Feb @ Livonia #32 19-Mar @ Plymouth #391 5th District 16-Apr @ TBD Meetings start at 7 PM 21-May @ Livonia #32 Jan 9th, 2014@ Daniel W. Cassard Post 208 4-Jun @ Livonia #32 @ 6:30PM Mar 13th, 2014 -@ Evans-Swanson Post 123 May 8th, 2014 @ Charles A. Conklin Post 28 July 10th To be Announced 18th District Meetings start @ 2:00PM 6th District Jan 12th, 2014 @ Pontiac Post #20 Service officer school @11AM March 9, 2014 @ Rochester Post #172 Lunch @ 12:00 Noon May 18th, 2013 @ Farmington Post #346 Meetings @ 1:00 PM Memorial Service / Election of Officers Jan 12, 2014 @ Pinckney Memorial Post 419 June 8, 2014 @ Royal Oak Post #253 March 9, 2014 @ Devereaux Post 141 May 4, 2014 @ Grand Blanc Post 413 District 19 Dec 8, 2013 @ Gaylord Post 7th District Mar 9, 2014 @ Elk Rapids Post Lunch served @ 12:30PM May 17, 2014 @ Onaway Post 212 N. Verlinden Ave, Ste. B, Lansing, MI 48915 New Phone: (517) 267-8809 SECTION TWO AUXILIAIRE Page 5 January/February 2014 From the Desk of the President 2013 - 2014 Department President, Sandra Snyder CHECKLIST TIME--IN THE UNIT, THE DISTRICT AND DEPARTMENT With the holi- -- Have we kept good records? one of our programs and do a -- We are part of the LEGION days behind us, It is almost time for reports. summary of where you are. FAMILY, are we working with it is time see So where are we? Have you promoted our Girls our family? where we are in -- Set down and write what YOU State, our Scholarships? Put I have been in our units and our goals we as a member did so far this what you do in the newspa- our districts as I have traveled have set for this year. year. How many Veterans and per, on Facebook, put flyers across this state and you tell me families have you served this on you events through your what you are doing. Please make -- Have we increased our mem- year? How many hours did community. Spread the good sure to share that with your unit, bership? Have we brought you spend on each one? word about our Auxiliary. so they can share with your dis- back members that were slip- Were monies spent? -- Now take all this information trict and department. We are a ping away? -- What did you do for children? to your next unit meeting and family who care about those who -- Have we reached out to the Again, remember how many, give it to your President and have served for us, our country, public and told them, Who Children, hours and dollars. your Chairmen. This will help and the world we live in. we are, What we do and Why -- What did you do in your com- them as they put together their Keep doing what you do. Just we do it? munity? You can take each reports that go to the Districts. remember to share it. SCHEDULE FOR THE AUXILIARY Ellen Jackson, Department Chaplain WINTER MEETING The Four FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14 4:00-- Poppy Speaker and Activity (ALL EVENTS AND TIMES ARE Chaplains— SUBJECT TO CHANGE) RECAP: REGISTRATION: $15.00 Strength and 1:00-5:00 p.m. Registration BANQUET: Friday, February 14--$25.00 LOCATION: Holiday Inn Gateway Center Courage 1:00-2:30 Executive Board Meeting 5353 Gateway Center 3:00-4:00 Meet and Greet Cent. Div. Vice Flint, MI 48507 The holiday season is over and after giving President 810-232-5300 or 800-465-4329- thanks for our family, friends, and Nation it is time 6:00-7:00 Social Hour—cash bar Use code “ALG” for the room rate to remember the strength and courage that our Hosted by the American Legion of $85.00/night plus tax. legion family was built on. Department of Michigan 7:00 Banquet Auxiliary store will be open 1-5 Friday, and 9-1 We have all been through hard times once or Honoring the National Saturday for supplies twice however with the love of our God and the Commander and the Cent. Div. strength inside of each and every one of us we Vice President Notice to veterans with dentures…. have made it through and seen the light to con- tinue on. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 15 Dr. Bob Erhard is a practicing dentist in the Lansing area. Through the continuous dedication in helping 8:00-10:00 Fundamentals of Fundraising He would like to help a few vets in need this holiday sea- (legion family workshop) son. He runs a One Day Denture Service - Erhard veterans, their families, and our country we stay Dental and Implant Center in Frandor Shopping Center united. Think of the four brave young men, today 10:15-2:10 Unit, District and Department in the eastern part of Lansing. known as the Four Chaplains, who showed Officer Training Workshops We have a lab on premise so we can make dentures strength and courage that faithful night aboard the 10:15-10:35 President in one day, under most circumstances. If you people know of a vet that has lost a denture, or has very old and worn U.S.A.T. Dorchester. These four brave individu- 10:35-10:55 Vice President als lead men to life jackets and boats so they 10:55-11:15 Chaplain dentures, we would love to help make this season bet- 11:15-11:30 Historian ter for those in need. could survive, even giving up their own jackets 11:30-12:00 Secretary Bob has committed to donating to 6 patients and I want when the supplies ran out. As the ship was sink- to be the contact person for you. We certainly can go into ing they say you could see the chaplains linked 12:00-1:00 Lunch the New Year, depending on your time lines with your 1:00-1:40 Treasurer members. We would be looking for vets that are wear- together arm in arm with their heads bowed in 1:40-2:10 Membership ing dentures now or are not wearing their dentures due prayer. So take time out this year and attend a 2:10-2:30 POD Info to losing them, or they no longer fit properly. Chapel of Four Chaplains service in your area. 2:30-2:45 Question Period We know the power of a smile and want to give some “We gain strength, and courage, and confi- 2:45-3:00 Break back this Christmas season. See what you can do and my 3:00-3:30 Girls State Workshop—“How cell is 517-862-1177 or the office is 517-351-2146. dence by each experience in which we really stop to Promote GS in the Community” Thanks for your help, Donna D'Angelo to look fear in the face… we must do that which 3:30-4:00 Guest Speaker—Freedom Center we think we cannot.” ~ Eleanor Roosevelt 6 | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | January/February 2014 | www.michalaux.org Nancy Knox Endorsed as Department President Ellen Jackson Endorsed At a regularly scheduled meeting of the Victor I. At the District level Nancy has served as Chaplain, as Department 2nd Rieck Unit 351 of the American Legion Auxiliary, Historian, Second and First Vice President and Department of Michigan held on, July 1, 2013 and District President in 2005. Nancy has served on Vice President the Seventh District Associations of the American many committees and chairmanships including Legion Auxiliary Department of Michigan held on the Distinguished Guest Chairman. At regularly scheduled meetings of the American August 4, 2013. Nancy (Mrs. John) Knox was Nancy has served the Department as a member Legion Auxiliary, 18th District, we voted to endorse endorsed for the office of Department President for of the Girls State, VA&R, Past President Parley, Ellen Jackson from Walter Frazier Unit 108 for the the year 2014-2015. Children and Youth, Revitalization, and the Office of Department 2nd Vice President for the year Nancy became a member of the Auxiliary in Americanism Committees. She has served as 2014-2015. 1971, through the eligibility of her husband John Chairman of the Credential Committee. She also At the Department level, Ellen is presently serv- who served in the United States Air Force during the served as Eastern Area Membership and ing as Chaplain and has previously served as Vietnam War, John who is a Past State Commander Membership Chairman for Department President Historian and the Americanism Chairman. She for the Department of Michigan. Nancy and John Judy Lynch. Also she has worked for the last 11 years have two daughters, one son, five granddaughters during the Girls State Session. Served as Department also served on the Americanism Committee and the and one grandson all who are members of the Historian for the 2010-2011, Department Chaplain Community Service Committee. Legion family. Her mother and mother-in-law are 2011-2012, Department Second Vice President At the Unit level and District level she has duti- also members of the American Legion Auxiliary. 2012-2013, and is currently serving the Department fully held the offices of President, 1st and 2nd Vice Both father and father-in-law were World War ll vet- of Michigan as First Vice President. President, Chaplain, Historian and Sgt-at-Arms. erans. Nancy has worked as a bus driver for the We the members of the Seventh District She brings her varied experience as Chairman of Utica Community Schools for 18 years before retir- Association, American Legion Auxiliary, Department VA&R, Americanism, Community Service, ing in 2012. She has served as the Union Secretary of Michigan, feel that Nancy is well qualified to Membership, Past President’s Parley, Girls State, for thirteen years. John and Nancy are members of serve and ask for your consideration for Nancy to Membership and Education, and is currently the Trinity Lutheran Church in Utica. serve as your Department President for the year District Publication Relations Chairman. In the Unit Nancy has held numerous offices and 2014-2015. Before Ellen came to Unit 108 she was a mem- chairmanships. She held the office of Secretary, ber of Chief Pontiac Unit 377 and served as Treasurer, Second and First Vice President and in Michelle Nickel, Unit 351 President President, 1st and 2nd Vice President, Chaplain, 1988, 2003, and 2005 served as President. She Antoinette Stamos, Unit 351 Secretary Historian and Sgt-at Arms. She also served on has also been the membership chairman for the past Betty J. Cline, 7th District President many Chairmanships at Chief Pontiac. 14 years. Susan Svacha, 7th District Secretary She has served on the board for the Pontiac Veterans Memorial Wall. She was a Representative for the ALA for the scholarship for the families of Susan Verville Endorsed as 1st Vice President Pontiac Veterans. Ellen is also a partner of Salon 224. At a regularly scheduled meeting of Alfred Youth Chairman (3 yrs.), Department Historian (1 Ellen is a dedicated, active Auxiliary member who Branchini Unit #17 held on October 8, 2013 and yr.), Department Chaplain (1 yr.) and Department joined under her deceased father, a Korean War the Upper Peninsula Association of Auxiliaries 2nd Vice President (1 yr.) Veteran. She is committed to serving the Veteran District meeting held on October 12, 2013, Susan We ask for your support of our candidate for and their family and has shown her loyalty over a (Mrs. Dwaine) Verville was endorsed for the office Department 1st Vice President for the year 2014- 15-year period of unselfish giving. of Department 1st Vice President for 2014-2015. 2015. Susan (Sue) became eligible for membership in Penny McPherson It is our honor and duty to ask for your support of the American Legion Auxiliary through the service Unit #17 1st Vice President our endorsement of Ellen Jackson for the Office of of her father George Rymkos, who served in the U.S. Department 2nd Vice President for the year 2014- Navy in WWII. Sue has been an active member for Julie Kay Rumann 15. 27 years. Unit #17 Secretary On the Unit level, she has held the offices of Unit Regards, President (13 yrs.), Secretary (4 yrs.), and Historian Krystal Oberle Angela Galbraith (2 yrs.). She has been chairman of many commit- UPAA President President, 18th District tees for the Unit. Chairmanships as follows: Jr. Activities, Girls State, Constitution & Bylaws, Diana Bancroft Janice L. Rollin Americanism, Legislative, National Security, UPAA 1st Vice President Secretary, 18th District Publications and Public Relations, V.A. & R., Leadership, Community Service, Education, Pictured left to right: Pamela McVeigh, Children & Youth and Auxiliary Emergency Fund. Deputy for the Grand Rapids Home for On the District level, Sue has served as the Veterans; Sarah Brooks, Representative Upper Peninsula Association of Auxiliaries District President (2 yrs.), 1st Vice (2 yrs.), 2nd Vice (2 yrs.), for the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans; Chaplain (1 yr.) and Historian (2 yrs.). She has been Vivian Plummer, auxiliary member; Judy chairman for the following committees: Jones, auxiliary member; Claudia Barber- Americanism, National Security, Legislative, Martin, 17th district President; Carolyn Leadership, Constitution & Bylaws (6 yrs.), Girls Bianchi, Deputy for the GRHV; Mary Anne State (10 yrs.), Girl’s State Bus (12 yrs.), and Children Yuncker, Past Department President; Harriet & Youth (2 yrs.). Sturim, 5th District Chaplain; Ethel Putala, On the Department Level, Sue has served as Deputy Ann Arbor VMC. Chairman for Citizens Flag Alliance (1 yr.), Upper The ladies convocated at the Grand Rapids Northern Area Membership Chairman (3 yrs.), Homes for Veterans for the Woman Veteran Auxiliary Emergency Fund Chairman (1 yr.), Luncheon with Claudia Barber-Martin as a Legislative Committee member (1 yr.), Children & guest speaker. WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | January/February 2014 | 7 Legislative Report 5th District Update Doug Williams, Legislative Chairman breakfast. We have also invited the Adjutant Well here we go again Its TERM LIMITS General his staff and the entire, new Catherine Buckley Veterans Recognition Day, honoring time there are 27 seats up for election in the Department of Veterans Affairs to this break- District Commander each Veteran and providing a wonderful House and 6 seats up for election in the fast to show our support for their efforts. The months are flying by and the lunch. I was also honored to be the guest Senate. That means we have 33 new Michigan currently shows a 9% unem- excitement is in the air. The Fighting speaker at Post#28 for their Veterans Legislators that we must educate as quickly ployment rate, the veterans unemployment Fifth is in 4th place in reaching our goal Day Banquet. Even though the day was as possible to the needs of our States rate stands at 15% and in the City of Detroit of 100%. unseasonable cold the Veterans Day Veterans. Here is a list of the Districts and (they currently stand at 18%. It should not Parade had a wonderful following. if you reside in one of them I would request be too hard to see why we have supported Being the Commander even though that you pay close attention to who is running legislation that will bring jobs into the State it has its trying moments, visiting the Our District Meetings are building and and what they know about Veterans or their and make it easier for our returning veterans other Post has been exhilarating, Cedar we have 3-4 guest to give out valuable needs. Support those who care about us and to obtain employment. Springs Post#287 had their Red Flannel information. Our last meeting had a reject those who don't. We need friends in PTSD & Traumatic Brain Injury as well Parade and what a treat for me to ride wonderful surprise visit from both the House and Senate when it comes to as Sexual Assault and Homelessness are still in it wearing Red Flannels. Commander Moore who gave us some appropriations and the only way we can get important issues facing our returning veter- November brought us to our Sparta wonderful information. them, is to know who they are and what ans and we should all do everything we can they will do to stand up and help. The dis- to keep these issues in front of the Veterans Post#107 a revitalization in the works. It District Meetings are so important, for tricts for the House seats are are 37, 63, 38, Administration and our own Department was a great success. Mr. Al Ford can do there is new valuable information for all 82, 47, 5, 12, 80, 43, 90, 13, 44, 58, 27, 59, of Veterans Affairs. It is important that we this with his eyes closed and he will get veterans and sometimes you’ll never 36, 45, 8, 42, 104, 62, 21, 98, 34, 28, 6, and initiate a program similar to other States a new member any way he can. Even learn of it unless you come to a meeting 19. The Districts for the Senate seats are 6, whereby treatment for a veteran suffering when the EMT’s are call because he fell, and it may be just what you need. 28, 32, 13, 17, and 23. from PTSD can be obtained at his/her local he signs up the Marine that was treating The New Year and the Brass ring are We will be reviewing the Veterans pref- hospital and the cost born by the Veterans erence legislation currently in place as sev- Administration if it works in other States it him. You won’t know unless you ask. out there for all of us Legionnaires. All eral issues have been raised with regard to can work here. So we will make it a part of Veterans Day Kent City Post#123 and we need to do is reach out, the rewards hiring of veterans in State jobs. our legislative efforts. the High School puts on a wonderful are numerous. This last legislative year we have focused Our Veterans organizations have been in on employment for veterans and have sup- the business of serving our Country's ported the passage of legislation concerning Veterans since the American Revolution, in regulations and testing. We will continue to one form or another and we have always had JOIN US FOR THE 78TH LEGION support those not yet acted upon. We wish to go to the people to acquire what we need to thank Representative Gail Haines for her to do this. Since the Legislature is the keep- OWLING OURNAMENT support and sponsorship of legislation that er of the people’s money (taxes) we have to B T will make it easier for veterans to get rely on them for funding and if they don't John "Scotty" Graham the tournament will be held at Colonial employed in specific jobs by changing test- know or can't see our needs we suffer. We The info Packets for the 78th Legion Lanes of Flushing, located at 6430 ing procedures. need those who make the decisions about Bowling Tournament were sent out in Pierson Rd., during the weekends of I want to also thank the Secretary of funding to fully understand why Abraham Mid December. I apologize for the error April 5, 12 and 26. Saturday squad times State Ruth Johnson for her assistance and Lincoln made his comments at Gettysburg on the entry form, which states it’s the for the Doubles and Singles Event are support with license plates and having and why those who served and are now serv- 77th Annual tournament. However, I Drivers License's show veteran status these ing must be always first in our hearts. 9:30am & 1:30pm. Team Event will be are real game changers for the States managed to get Colonial Lanes Address held on Sunday at noon. Larry Shepard Veterans. The new state ID and driver license Correct! We have irons in the fire for and Dane Carnell will share the with veteran designation should be avail- 10th District 2015 & 2016 hopefully we will have Honorary President Duties (subject to able late spring of 2014. more information by the March issue. If change) and the organizers of post func- All proposed legislation having to do with Report there are any questions on the eligibili- tions. Oakley Traynor Post 64 is locat- Military or Veterans will pass through The ty changes please contact me at 734- ed in Flushing at G-4314 Carpenter Rd. Military Veterans Affairs and Homeland Ken Burtch Jr. Security Committee for the House and the District Commander 422-8670 or email malbowl@sbcglob- This is important to all participants, you Senate where they will hear testimony for or Happy New Year, I hope that your holi- al.net. do not have to bowl in all three events, against it. If your representative resides on day season was safe and joyful. The 10th The info packets were sent to all the you may bowl in any combination of either committee I would suggest that you District now has a Website, and I have been posts on the Department mailing list events, be it just one or all three. give them a call whenever there is a need for asked by last year’s adjutant, Harold (406) and all the Captains of record of Furthermore, you may bowl in doubles support of the legislation that helps our Burcham, to be the webmaster. I will do my last year’s Tournament. For those of you and team event again, provided you have States Veteran population. best to make this endeavor a success for our The Department of Michigan Legislative District. The web address is: who maybe new or interested in bowling, a different partner or team! Committee is Mr. Douglas Williams www.mi10thdist.org - The email address is: (Chairman) Legionaries, Mr. Lino Pretto [email protected]. Vice Chair second half, Mr, Rick Donovan If your Post has an activity that you want Getting Ready for Boys State 2014 Vice Chair first half, and Mr. Richard Tracy. the rest of the district to be aware of send Should you have a legislative concern please that information to me and I will post it on Jerry Kelley, State Boys State in November. do not hesitate to bring it to the attention of the website under the announcements tab; Director As we get the word out, American a committee member. which you can find under the "More" tab. We have 3 main legislative goals for the Since the conclusion of Boys state Legion Posts will be asked to step forward There is also a tab for the Auxiliary, and 2013, the Boys state committee has been and help sponsor young men to attend coming year; increase funding to our Veteran the SAL, so I also ask those two groups to services operations for the Michigan Veterans working on ideas and procedures to Boys State 2014. We are also asking Coalition, the building of a new Veterans send me information. make Boys State 2014 another success- Posts to reach out to their local schools, cemetery in the Upper Peninsula, and bring- I continue to impress upon each post that I visit to continue their hard work in the ful year. We have challenged the District National Guard Units and Reserve ing a Veterans Nursing Care Home to the Commanders to have ten young men Units. And yes even your own Post. southeastern area of the State. area of membership. My endeavor to make Again this year we will join with the each of us a "Walking Bill Board," by wear- more in 2014 than they had from their Won’t it be great if your Post sponsored Commanders Group and hold a Legislative ing your legion clothing i.e. ball cap, T-Shirt District in 2013. We have set in place a son or a grandson of one of our own? Breakfast in the House Office Building etc., continues. This will allow you to make with Mark Sutton and the Public January is the kick off for Boys State Mackinac Room on the fifth floor. The date contact with possible members that you do Relations Committee a plan to spread 2014 and we would like every post to for this event is February 5, 2014 starting at not see, but they will see you. So far I have the word about Boys State to schools, and sponsor at least one young man to attend 08:00. At this event we will present a pro- made 13 Post visits, and have 2 more sched- American Legion Posts. We attended Michigan’s outstanding “National Civics gram of information for those uled for December. If you have a certain the Michigan Social Studies Teachers Leadership Program”. Applications for Representatives and Senators in attendance. date in mind for me to visit your Post, please We have invited all 110 Representatives and contact me (989)94108412. Keep up the Conference in October and the 2014 are online at www.michiganle- 38 Senators and we hope they all show up for good work! Michigan School Counselors Conference gion.org/boysstate. 8 | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | January/February 2014 | WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG 4th Zone Commander Update Continued Gary HLavka, Zone Commander off-load from buses without being rained on Step one: in the spirit of Governor or snowed on. Bob Johnson, Post 35, is a UNDERSTANDING REPORT Snyder’s “private, public partnerships” Legionnaires, Happy New Year 2014, board member and doing a great job for and vocational benefits have increased by the state should join in complete part- where does time go? We are half way the Legion. Thank you to former board $40 million; and medical outlays have nership with the VSO’s in the Coalition through our year and I wanted to update you member Gerrit Veldman for getting that increased by $100 million. The state and allow the funding to have accredit- on my activities for the year. I have had an project started. amazing time meeting with Legionnaires, I had the privilege to attend the AmVets has seen a decrease in the VA’s general ed veteran service officers stationed all operating expenditure by $2 million; the District meetings I have been able attend Post 120 Brotherhood dinner and they men- over the state and ensure the time in have shown me the great leaders we have in tioned the renovations they did with the help insurance down $1.5 million, and con- those places are adequate for veterans to struction down $15 million. our District Commanders. I have attended of Home Depot Grants. I would encourage conveniently see a service officer. The the 10th District and 9th District meetings, any post in need of repairs to consider con- According to a 2010 State Summary report current arrangements do not take into had the pleasure of meeting with leading tacting Home Depot to help with Post repairs by the VA just over 10% of Michigan Veteran’s consideration evening hours of opera- candidate for Department Commander Jim or upgrades. were receiving compensation or pension benefits. tion, “office days” for officers to complete Wallace, attended the ribbon cutting cere- I look forward to seeing everyone at The average dollar amount received by the vet- paperwork, or enough officers to cover mony at the Grand Rapids Veterans Home Winter Meeting in Flint, MI. Be safe and eran was $13,666 per year; which is an aver- educational institutions where we find canopy. The veterans will now load and God Bless you all. age disability rating of 60-70%. This is a our busier younger veterans. With the reflection of the work accredited veteran service understanding that reputation matters Public Relations Update officers do to help the veterans receive the bene- when it comes to a veteran trusting a David Loop , Chairman local level of radio, newspapers, and TV fits they have earned. service officer. helps publicize the activities at your post. The drastic cuts in the grant funding from the I attended the 2nd District Meeting as the You knowing them and them knowing about Can Michigan Do Better? State of Michigan (Executive Order No. 2009- public relations chairman, there were 13 the 4 pillars, The Legion programs your Regardless of how a person uses data 22 cut the grants from $4.2 million to 3.2 Posts represented. Out of the 13 only 2 had Post supports prepare them to write and to measure success or failure there is million, the current budget is set at 2.4 million a public relations representative at their Post. cover stories of the Legion. I want to encour- always room for improvement. Truth be for 2014) has reduced the amount of trained As I have stated before public relations age each Post to assign a PR position. service officers on the road by over 30% since starts at the post level. Ask yourself this; what I would also encourage everyone to attend told, Michigan has left millions of dol- is your Post missing with not having a Post the Leadership Colleges coming in January, lars (maybe even a billion) on the table, 2008. Changes to VA policies have also public relations person? the program provides a good guidance on over the years, because the State of made it difficult to have volunteers assist Surely your post has activities that should what the Legion represents. Mark Sutton Michigan was not “accredited” with the in the process. Increased costs in fuel and be made known to the community, yes? How contributes to the schools with good infor- Veterans Administration. The state now healthcare have made the reductions in else is your community going to know what mation on Public Relation ideas. The has that accreditation and is working on funding multiply. your Legion is doing if you do not report it? remaining dates can be found at www.michi- ways to draw more VA dollars to the Step two: once the human assets are Creating a strong network of contacts on the ganlegion.org. area. The American Legion and other VSO’s in place run a “Pure Michigan Veteran” are working with the new Michigan Veterans campaign to let veterans know where to Affairs Agency to bring those dollars to the state. go for services. (Thank you Rob Weiss The Michigan American Legion has of the VFW for that idea, many years been providing assistance with the VA ago). This campaign would cover a Claim process (known as a Power of phone app, website advertising, radio, Attorney) for more than 80 years in and TV. We must remember 73% of Michigan. It is one of the founding Michigan’s veteran population is over pillars of the organization, so we have 55 years old. seen a thing or two on how to service vet- Step three; allow the hundreds of erans in the state. We understand the Veteran Service Organization Post attitudes of veterans when it comes to the homes to be used as VA Health Benefit VA and bureaucracies, veterans simply sign up centers. Give incentives to a hate red tape. We dot the “I” and cross group who could advertise to their local the “t” for the veteran and we represent veteran community the 10-10ez forms these veterans free of charge if their and sign veterans up for their veteran claim is denied and goes to appeal. Our healthcare. Training and requirements staff represents them at the Detroit would have to be established, along with Regional office and if the case goes to oversight. This provides a grass roots Washington, D.C. The American Legion effort to increase unique patients. national organization has a staff of 19 Is Michigan under serving its veterans? individuals designated to just appealing In some cases yes, in some no, is there claims in front of the VA board. All room for improvement, plenty. The free of charge to the veteran and the Michigan American Legion believes Washington Staff is free of charge to there are ways to improve service to our the State of Michigan. veterans and we are working with the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency every- 3 Steps to more expenditure in the day to bring those ways to the attention State of the Governor and the legislature to The Michigan American Legion promote more funding. In the meantime believes there are some steps the state can we press forward one day at a time, one take to increase expenditures to the state veteran at a time, because here at The in the areas where a state has some con- American Legion “every day is veter- trol. Those areas’s are in Compensation ans day”. and Pension Claims, Education and Vocational Rehabilitation, Medical Notes: All VA data is available at expenditures, and Unique Patients. www.va.gov/vetdata WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | January/February 2014 | 9 TALARC 2nd Zone Report ARE YOU A “HAM RADIO” Operator? Jerry Andrus, Commander

The American Legion has a new Amateur Radio To All Posts in the 2nd Zone, I look Club and they are looking for other Legion Posts who have forward to seeing and meeting every- a Club too. Here in Michigan the Ravenna American one at your District Meetings. We Legion Post #297 has created a Amateur Radio Club and have a strong push from National to is looking for other clubs in the state. Or are you inter- reach a all time high before our 100 ested in starting a club? They can help. year anniversary and we can do this. Their club recently showed why they formed when a In order to get new members it will recent storm moved through the area, the radio club be about Public Relations and members hit the streets (see pictures) to report damage Community Involvement. Promoting throughout the area to authorities. Once the club is estab- our programs, Boys State, Student lished, working with the local disaster preparedness Trooper, Oractorical and other schol- groups they bring a valuable asset to assessing damage or arships; giving awards to Police and reporting emergencies in the area. Fire, to Teachers. These are all For further information about The American Legion opportunities to be in the communi- Amateur Radio Club or amateur radio at the Ravenna ty and promote to the press. American Legion Sherman Moore Post #297, please One way I am getting in to the contact Richard Strait, 231-788-6305 or email: community schools is with a diction- [email protected] ary for third graders. I have a copy of the book that I take to all district Barb Money meetings and post meetings that I Department Veteran Services Director attend. The first two-thirds is the dic- Jimmy Topps Announces Retirement Retires After tionary and then it has the weights and measures, The Declaration of Jimmy Topps, and has been overseeing the DVSO 35 years of Independence and the Constitution Department Veterans staff since. He looks forward to vol- of the United States. It also has all the Services Division unteering and continuing to help our Director, announced his Veterans in retirement. Dedicated and Presidents of the United States, all the retirement and will retire The search for a new director has States in our Union and all the coun- in June of 2014. Jim begun and we look to have a new hire Loyal Service tries of the World; all for just $2.00 started his career in 1998 in place by Feb 1st, 2014 to begin per book. First get the Principals per- as a Department Veterans Service working with Mr. Topps on transi- mission, then the names of all the Officer. Tirelessly helping veterans tioning. 3rd graders. On the inside of the receive benefits they have earned. A Thank you Jimmy for your years of cover make a sheet with the Vietnam War veteran Jim was pro- faithful service and dedication to our American Legion emblem and your moted in 2009 to the Director position Veterans and the Legion Family. post name and number and donated to the third grade class of. Across the Bring the Legion Family and Community together for service page is a line for the third graders name. Have a presentation and make Elsie Post 502 Creates a Family sure to invite the local media to cover Support Group it. Frank Flores When the new Commander was faced Candidate for with how to bring help to a local veteran in Department Sgt need of a ramp, he ran in to many obstacles. At Arms Through dedication The 18th and determination he District proud- found the right people Barb Money started with The ly supports and the money to get American Legion in 1978, on Frank Flores of the ramp built. Post 354 and Through his search for December 31st, 2013 retired from the Department of current help he found a bigger Department need in the community. Knowing the Post could not do it alone the Post cre- Michigan. Barb leaves big shoes assistant Sgt At ated a “Family Support Group”. The group is run by the Legion, but any- to fill in the office and her joy- Arms for the one in the community, veteran, non-veteran, young, old, a little to give, a lot ful attitude and dedication to 2014-2015 to give, anyone with the desire to help veterans, service members, and their her job will be missed by many. Department Sgt At Arms. Frank families can help and have input on the activities of the group. Truly a reach received his eligibility from his serv- into the community, if you would like to learn more about what Commander We wish Barb a great new chap- ter in her life. ice in the US Marine Corps during Evert Hendley is creating call him at (989) 834-6192. the Vietnam War. 10 | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | January/February 2014 | WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG SAFEGUARD YOUR Veterans’ Service VA CARD! Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency: No Mark Sutton, PR Director Wrong Door for Michigan Veterans LEGIONNAIRES- FOR YOUR INFORMATION: Recently it was reported on a Florida TV News broadcast that Jeff Barnes, Director of the foreclosure or who have already lost their home, MVAA using $5 million in one-time funds authorized by the barcode on your VA issued card can be scanned by a sim- the Attorney General. ple barcode scanning app on a smart-phone and reveal your The Michigan Veterans Affairs • We assist veterans who need copies of their dis- social security number. IS THIS TRUE? YES, it is, with the Agency (MVAA) opened its doors charge documents. The following DD214s help of a veteran visiting the office I used a app on my phone in March 2013 and serves as the can be accessed and retrieved through our office: to scan the barcode. Once it was read it revealed his social secu- central coordinating point, con- World War II, Korean Conflict and Vietnam necting those who have served in Conflict bonus records; copy six from 1980 for- rity number. Like other pieces of information in your wallet the United States Armed Forces ward. or purse keep it safe. and their families, to services and • The Grand Rapids Home for Veterans and benefits throughout the state of the Dominic J. Jacobetti Home for Michigan. Veterans in Marquette are open to eligible vet- No matter where they start or what they need, our erans and their spouses who need skilled nursing, goal is for Michigan veterans to find “no wrong doors” dementia, special needs or domiciliary care. in their search for benefits or services. Our initiatives Admitted veterans may be eligible for financial and service include: assistance from the US Department of Veterans • We provide strategic direction and coordination Affairs for some of the cost of their care. of services in four focus areas: employment, Web portal serves as one-stop shop for vet- education, health care, and issues that affect erans quality of life for Michigan veterans and their The new MVAA web portal, www.michiganveter- families. The agency also provides support, train- ans.com, is an important step in helping Michigan vet- ing and a veteran friendly credentialing program erans connect with the benefits they have earned. It for employers and educational institutions. serves as a “one-stop shop” on the web, putting infor- • We are committed to improving dialogue mation about benefits and resources from across the between veterans of all eras and every state state in one centralized location. department and agency that serve veterans. Mirroring MVAA’s priorities, the site focuses on the • The Michigan Veterans Trust Fund (MVTF) four key areas of education, employment, provides discretionary grants to war-era veterans healthcare and quality of life, as well as our two or their families to assist with unforeseen, tem- veterans’ homes, putting an array of information porary financial emergencies. Grant applications and resources at visitors’ fingertips, where they can put Property Tax Exemption for are made to county committees made up of local it to immediate use. Visitors can also register for veterans. email updates on benefit changes, new laws affecting 100% Disabled Veterans in • The Michigan Veterans Housing Assistance veterans and other news. Program (MiVHAP) grants relief to eligible For more information about MVAA, visit Michigan service members and veterans who are facing www.michiganveterans.com or call 517-284-5298. SUPPORTING THE ECONOMY OF MICHIGAN How Are We Doing? Jimmy Topps, State Veteran Services Director benefit claims were awarded which means a shot into When your Department Veteran Service officer starts the Michigan economy for $5,161,551. We keep a claim for a veteran it might take months and years record of each month and we consistently provide for that veteran to finally receive the benefit. So numbers similar to this each month. Thank you to what does that mean to the State of Michigan’s econ- my staff for the hard work and counseling they give omy? For just the month of November 2013, 243 to our veterans, and their families in need. American Legion Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Our staff is dedicated to providing the very best veterans’ advocacy to Michigan Veterans and Their families. They can assist with Claims Preparation, Presentation and appeal counsel in Veterans’ benefits services. Assist you and your Dependents in getting the Benefits that you have earned by your service to your Country American Legion Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Mr. James C. Topps, Director Patrick V. McNamara Federal Building Room 1210 477 Michigan Avenue Detroit, MI 48226 In November Governor Snyder signed into law SB 352 Office Phone – (313)-964-6640 or (313)-964-6641 Office Fax (313)-964-5697 giving a tax exemption to veterans rated with a 100% dis- James C. Topps Cell Phone – (269)-312-2239 - e-mail – [email protected] – [email protected] Director Monday thru Friday 8:00 am to 4:00 pm ability rating or unremarried surviving spouses of a qual- ifying veterans. Veterans or spouses who feel they qual- Erna LaBeau, Director’s Secretary – [email protected] Lannie Thomas, Department Service Officer – [email protected] ify should contact their local tax assessor’s office for what Tripp Cantwell, Department Service Officer – [email protected] paper work is needed and important deadlines for admis- Chris Smirnes, Department Service Officer – [email protected] sion. These vary from place to place, but most require a Gary Garvin, Department Service Officer – [email protected] DD214, a Disability Rating letter from the VA, and the Gary Easterling, Department Service Officer signing of an affidavit form. Most offices need this infor- Lena Payton-Webb, Department Service Officer mation by March 1st of each tax year to qualify for the Call the Detroit office for Field Sevice Officer schedule. exemption. www.michalaux.org | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | January/February 2014 | 11 It May Be Winter, But History Project Request It’s time to Plant! Deanna Cortright, Department Historian like to have you include the members name, This year I would like to have our units do number of years that they have been a mem- Margo Forrester, Poppy Chairman something different and fun. In addition to ber, and as much data as they can give you your normal unit history, I would like for you about the years they have belonged. You might Those who attended the Fall Conference Schools to pick a long time member of your unit and find that back when they first joined there was of Instruction have already learned about the Poppy write a story about them. This can be done in a special project that allowed the unit to make Program and how to plant Poppy Seeds! They any manner you choose. a fairly large amount of money or donate to spe- learned ways to Bring Awareness, Increase Poppy Unless your unit is a fairly new one, there cific programs your unit no longer supports. Revenues and how to grow our Poppy Program! is at least one member that has been a mem- In most cases, you will find that the mem- We can bring awareness by ordering our “Made ber for 40 or 50 years, or more. That member ber used to be there for everything, support all in Michigan” poppies and distributing them to our has seen many changes in membership and has of the programs, and was an officer for many, members and the general public. Inform them done about anything that could be thought of many years. about the Poppy Story, the Flanders Field Poem at one point in time or another. At the end of the year, depending on the num- and how veterans benefit from monies raised, too. If your unit keeps an annual history, you ber we receive, we will find a way to put them ALA’s Got Talent! Our members can enter in the might get a lot of data from those documents. together and get a copy to all units. Artistic Creation Contests and design Centerpieces, You can also get with that member and set a I look forward to getting at least one from Unique Displays and Corsages using the ALA Poppy time to interview them. Once you have com- each unit. If you want to do more than one you as the main element in their creations. These piled the information, please put it in writing are welcome to do so. arrangements can also be displayed as decorations and send it to me. Again, I have no preference Let me know if you need anything or have at future Post events. as far as how the data is put in writing. I would questions. Know a teacher, try and reach her (or him)? Ask if they can incorporate our Poppy Poster Contest as part of their curriculum! Its art, history and patriotism Volunteering at Oscar G. Johnson all rolled into one assignment. And they are a joy to judge! Veterans Affairs Medical Center Does your Unit sponsor a Miss Poppy or Little Miss Poppy? She is a Unit Junior who promotes the Barbara Larson, Representative, Iron Mountain outings and football parties. We have served Poppy Program and assembles a scrapbook about Volunteering can be very busy at the Oscar cake for every National Veterans Appreciation her efforts. G. Johnson Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Week to the outpatient Veterans. The CLC kicks Increasing revenues can be as simple as order- OGJVAMC. Besides doing Bingo every month off the event after our VAVS Committee Meeting ing and distributing poppies to just taking up a at the facility, we sponsored a game at the and the events end with a party for the CLC collection! But it can also be a creative like: host- Patient Carnival, served ice cream, and social- Residents at the end of the week. ing a Poppy Party, offer Poppy Memory Sheets for ized in the month of July. We served refresh- Our Annual Christmas Gift Shop is one of our a donation for Valentine’s Day, have a Poppy cook- ments at an outing at the U.P. Veterans Memorial bigger events, in which we help the CLC ie or cupcake sale, “Put For Poppies” indoors using and Park in the month of August. Our Auxiliary Resident Veterans pick out items for their fam- a putting cup or what is an Legion without a 50/50? helped out at the Pine Mountain Veterans ily members for Christmas. We help decorate Our Department Website, michalaux.org has our Recovery Festival in order to make our Veterans and coordinate for the hospital for Christmas. Program Guides with deadlines, Unit Mailings and fill welcomed. In October, we helped with the Overall, we are in need of new volunteers as Poppy order forms. Our National Website, alaforvet- flu clinics by handing out and helping patients it was requested to help with the growing erans.org has extensive information about the Poppy, fill out the forms. changes that occur at the OGJVAMC. its history and printable Unit bookmarks. There are On a monthly basis, we help out with escort- Volunteering is a very fun as well as rewarding examples of Poppy Posters and Artistic Creations at ing patients to and from appointments, outpa- experience. If you are interested, please contact north-eastern459.org/Poppy Museum and on tient services and visitation, help with special me at [email protected] Facebook at American Legion Auxiliary Northeastern Post-Unit 459 Poppy Museum, inside Photos, Albums. For any questions, feel free to contact me Another Year of Great Success for Our Veterans at 616 363-6688 or [email protected]. Sarah Brooks, Representative, Grand Rapids • Poppy Bonanza to show how poppies are made Our volunteers are so dedicated to our veterans • And our biggest project – Christmas Gift Shop, and widows. Also the volunteers from the 5th, 7th, which is held for three days. Members are 9th and 19th Districts are very helpful, especially able to shop for up to five members of their fam- with the Christmas Gift Shop. ily. Gifts are wrapped and mailed. Have you heard about Resolution 20? We have many events throughout the year, such as: These are not one time projects but are year The National Executive Committee • Bingo round. has authorized new flexibility in Poppy • Service Cart We believe in letting our members know that we Fund spending. Units can spend Poppy • Blanket Drive for the homeless veterans are here for them. We currently have 472 members money on veterans as they always • Ladies Tea/Bingo at the Home. have! But monies raised after May 9, • Carnival We don’t volunteer for praise, but we do it to let 2013 can also be spent on active mil- • Luncheon honoring women veterans, as well as the veterans know they are not forgotten. itary in two cases: where a financial or wives and widows I can’t begin to count all the hours that our vol- medical need is evident. • Mother’s Day Card Program unteers do each week. As we say, the Lord gives • Hats, mittens, gloves, and scarves for the mem- us strength to give back that they gave to us. Our bers thanks to all, not only the veterans’ organizations • Gift of money to the non-income members that help, but to people as a whole. May you be who receive no income blessed for all you do. 12 | January/February 2014 | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE |www.michalaux.org We are “On Track for our ALL ABOARD at the D.J. JACO- Veterans” BETTI HOME FOR VETERANS Betty Cline, Seventh District Public Relations DVD has been air- Wanda Westman, Representative, showcase all the creativity of our President ing. This is a great awareness for all Marquette residents. We have a hobby shop The Seventh District is striving for the good works the Auxiliary does. I First Place. Thank You Units for thought it was great and so have oth- As I’m writing this article on and wood shop. Our Marquette keeping those Dues coming in. My ers I have talked to. Veteran’s Day, we just concluded Unit #44 sponsors a sewing and goal again this year is to Just to let Alyssa know the Jar is get- our 11am ceremony. But here at fellowship group that meets twice Communicate with each other. My ting filled every time we have a func- the Jacobetti Home, we honor our a month with our women resi- Unit #8 held a “Meet and Greet tion. The Public and members will veterans 365 days a year. I am so dents. We also have many music your District President”. With Unit be aware of “CHILD ABUSE AND 8 members and Unit 382-449 and BULLYING” when your year ends as thankful to our many volunteers events including one of our 525, around 40 members enjoyed our Junior President. and the Auxiliary units who show Auxiliary members from good food and a good time. Next I Reminder that Post #8 will host a special care to our veterans and Greenwood #114 who performs had lunch with Almont #479 and Leadership Class on Jan. 25, 2014 in improve their quality of life. We three times a month. Lapeer #16. More Unit visits com- Port Huron. Registration is at 8 a.m. have 190 residents here and we try Our biggest project is Christmas with coffee and rolls. Class is at 9 ing with Utica #35 and Harbor to include them in many activi- Gift Shop where every resident Beach #197. a.m. and lunch at Noon (no charge). Veterans Day I was honored to be After the class, you receive a citation ties. We sponsor bingo every gets a gift for themselves and up to Guest Speaker for the Allied Veterans and pin. Please try to attend. Monday afternoon. We are look- 5 more gifts for their family mem- Council. What a good time I had Seventh District meets next at ing for donations for this program bers. I think it helps to maintain telling about what all the Auxiliary Lapeer Post #16 on Jan. 12, 2014. at a cost of $100 only once a their dignity when our residents Members do for our Veterans and My Project this year is collecting month. The other Mondays are have a gift to give their wife, son or their Families. donations for the Freedom Center Thank You Unit #449 for collect- and Wilwin Lodge. We are keeping sponsored by local Auxiliaries. We daughter for Christmas. We are ing Toys for Tots and Unit #8 For the the Train moving on track for work in the library, keeping mag- busy getting all the donations from “Tunes for Tots” party they collect President Sandra and Membership azine subscriptions current at a all the Auxiliaries in the U.P. and toys for Christmas. Susan. cost of approximately $400 a year. organizing everything for We also maintain the greeting card December 5th -6th. Please keep rack for the resident’s use. the Jacobetti Home in your Promote ALA My special project is activities thoughts and prayers during the and entertainment. The Home cold winter months. Send your Janice Rollin, Public Relations Promote through social media. issues a Wish List every other donations to Department, ear- Committee Member Yes, I said it….social media: Do you wear the ALA brand? You Facebook and Twitter followers read month, so we can use our dona- marked for Jacobetti Home and know, the ALA brand. The American short posts. Include the 5 W’s: who, tions to the best use to benefit the what project you wish to support. Legion Auxiliary emblem. In what, where, when and why in most residents. We work with On this Veteran’s Day and all year Michigan, we wear professional your posts. Stay engaged with real other service groups to host the long, we honor our veterans. We team jackets, collegiate team hats time conversations, tweets, pictures holiday parties. At most of the appreciate the sacrifice that you and high school team shirts. But, do and videos. Create a Facebook parties, we play bingo and serve a and your family have given to we wear American Legion Auxiliary event two weeks prior to the date, snack after. For the past two years, allow us the freedoms we have jackets, hats, shirts or ALA stickers invite fans to RSVP and share with we have hosted an Art Show to today. GOD BLESS YOU ALL. on our vehicle? Look around right friends. After the event, always now…from where you’re sit- thank fans. ting…do you see the ALA emblem Write a letter to the editor invit- anywhere in sight? Start NOW .. ing eligible parties to join the Serving our Veterans! to get our ALA brand out….so ALA…by serving and supporting EVERYONE can see it. Can you those who have given so much. with a Christmas list? explain the ALA mission? Have your Promote events through your Krystal Oberle, UPAA President Unit schedule a 5 minute session website and newsletter. Members This year make it a point to on how to spread the ALA mes- who don’t get to meetings can This past Veterans Day saw many become more aware of the veter- sage to a wider audience: who we spread the word too. tributes to our veterans from high ans in your community. Invite a are, what we do and why we mat- Invite public officials to attract schools to tv specials! veteran's family to a post dinner, ter….. use the public relations media. Have a local celebrity auto- There were dinners honoring our and present them with a certifi- guide which has been created by graph items for a fundraiser. veterans, fundraisers and the dis- cate honoring their service! visiting alaforveterans.org Create and distribute flyers con- tribution of poppies. And by the way, those buttons Do you promote events in news- taining your promotion, location, Is your unit helping a veteran this out there with the veteran’s photo papers? Do you know a TV reporter date, time and description. Place year at Christmas time? Are you on it honoring their service makes that covers military organizations? these flyers where there’s a lot of seeking out the needs of a veteran’s a nice memento for a veteran’s Build a relationship with the media foot traffic. family! They can be ordered (telephone, email, press releases). family in your community? Is there Make sure you follow up with through the American legion aux- Offer a well prepared interview any potential member. a veteran next door who needs a that conveys your message. Don’t Wear the ALA brand. Yes, I said helping hand with yard chores, a iliary website. They certainly are a forget to give thanks. it. Wear the ALA brand. ride to an appointment, or help gift that keeps on giving!! WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | January/February 2014 | 13 5th Zone Report WILWIN LOOKING Dave Spencer, Zone Commander Concluding with district meetings on January FORWARD TO SPRING 18th , 2014 at Post 50. The District Thank you to all of the Post’s in the 11th Commanders have the stopping points and Bill Hafeman, PDC and Wilwin Lodge is leaning toward installing an outside wood and 12th District for your work on mem- they are on www.michiganlegion.org/fyi , Board Director burner. bership. 11th needs to pick it up a little, but please find a post close to you and come for National Commander Dellinger and his as an idea if you have members struggling a visit. The State Commander and the State The Board of Directors wishes to thank wife are expected to visit Wilwin in early financially to pay their dues maybe holding President will be there to answer any ques- each and every one of you for your contin- August, 2014. Alternate NEC, PDC and a fund raiser to cover those dues would help. tions or concerns you may have. uous generous donations. Wilwin Lodge Board Director Roger Webster I am looking forward to the U.P. Tour com- Hope to see all of you this year, thank you The care-taker’s cabin is up and enclosed. was appointed to take the lead on his visit. ing up January 12th, 2014 starting in for all the work you do for our Legion, our Electrical, plumbing and interior work will The Building and Grounds Committee Pickford Post 323 and ending in Iron communities, our Veterans, and their fami- be done as soon as the weather permits. reported and recommended that a rustic Mountain at Post 50 on the 17th, 2014. lies. Wilwin’s Board of Directors meeting held campground be placed to the right as you at the Farwell Post 558 on November 23, enter Wilwin on the 77 acres in Chippewa 2013 nominated and elected Dan Crisp of County. The area is quite level and has easy LEADERSHIP CLASS UPDATE Harrison to the board to replace PDC Bill access inside the front entrance. The area Bud Hansbarger, Leadership share a few comments given and answer a Miller and his son Larry who resigned their will easily accommodate larger RVs. Committee Chairman couple questions written. positions in September. The Board gave The Wilwin website should be updated The Leadership College Class’s for 2013 Comments: “excited to learn more – I can Bill and Larry special thanks for all the and current by the time you receive the cur- -2014 are going well. Attendance from our be a Leader!” (4th zone) “Very well done, unselfish work and time they had generous- rent Legionnaire. Also, easier access for our Legion Family members has been good and interesting & informative” (5th zone) “Took ly given to the success of Wilwin. Board veterans to stay at Wilwin will be updated. diverse. A fair reflection of our membership, a lot of notes, good question and answering member Steve Striggow was elected Please make plans to spend a few days of Legionnaires, Auxiliary, Son’s, and Riders time” (2nd zone). Secretary to replace PDC Bill Miller’s posi- your summer vacation and visit your facili- ty. have contributed to class content. Sharing Questions or constructive criticism was tion; director Pat Laine was appointed Recording Secretary to replace Larry Miller. The Board of Directors has approved a what’s new, what’s worth repeating, idea given: “Package hand out items into one bag The Board will ask the DEC to approve new “Donations Wish List” for the future exchanges, questions, and answers. In some and give out before class starts” We have Dan Crisp nomination at the winter meet- needs for Wilwin for the upcoming year. cases answers to questions we didn’t even thought about making a bag of all handout ing in Flint. The wish list is available at our website know we had. Interaction with others in material, however placing them on a cen- The Board also hired Past National S.A.L www.wilwin.org Anyone who can help attendance and instructors promotes not trally located table allows each person to Commander, Earl Ruttkofsky as caretaker for Wilwin fulfill these needs please call Lou only The American Legion Family as a fam- take the materials they need or are interest- Wilwin for the coming year. Directors Lou Oberle at 477-6229 or 906-440-0338. ily and all we accomplish, but also our pas- ed in. “Add and expand topic materials on Oberle and PDC Bill Hafeman agreed to fill Anyone donating any items will receive a sions and dedications to and for our veterans IRS.” The IRS is a difficult topic to cover; in as caretaker when Earl is not available. certified appraisal certificate for tax pur- and our programs. we are sharing the information available to Heating at the lodge is a priority item. The poses. Most labor for construction projects If you haven’t taken the opportunity to us. Letters from the IRS to The American old boiler, repaired many time, is irrepara- has been donated by our Legion family. attend Leadership College or have attended Legion, advice from The American Legion ble and needs to be replaced. Several options Please plan on attending the Wilwin board in the past, content has been changed and/or national office, and current IRS hand outs. will be considered for heating the lodge, not meeting at the Winter Meetings at the Holiday Inn in Flint. updated. There is still a couple to sign up for. “Expand training, 2 or 3 days.” Department to include a new boiler. Wood being an inexpensive commodity at Wilwin, the Board During the Duties of Office presentation and leadership committee are working at and immediately following, form importance the same goal to provide training to all mem- is discussed. Forms like the CPR, what it is bers, with coming to zone’s & districts and “What Ever it Takes” and why it’s so important. Another form giving single topic training at Department 9th District Report given and asked for its completion is meetings. National LEAD class’s have been Leadership College Evaluation. This eval- and are scheduled for Department meet- Neal Horning, Program. With his outstanding efforts uation gives feedback on The Leadership ings, listings and sign up information is avail- District Commander including, recruiting drivers, setting up a Committee performance, college content, able in the Legionnaire and on line at michi- Our 9th District is forging ahead with new very workable dispatch system, he has turned instructors, needed subjects, etc. I’d like to membership working together to solve some the DAV Van System around 180 degrees ganlegion.org. Post problems. I want to commend the indi- heading in the right direction. As a result, viduals who are making the difference. This Veterans are being served in three counties. past Veteran's Day made me think of the past “WHOOAAH – OUTSTANDING”. Children and Youth Update when things were rough for a lot of us. But On the 9th of November I was invited to Ron Geiger, Chairman Children it made me reflect on us who survived and a Special Dinner Program at Post 10 by the pennies and spare change for Children's are trying to still do the right thing. Not all Ladies Auxiliary and youth. Their program and Youth Chairman Miracle Network are also being sup- of us have seen battle or been in a fire fight, was very inspirational and really impressed ported. but we all signed up and made the commit- my wife, Marilyn, and I. They started with I hope every post has set their goals as Children and Youth have pins for ment if necessary to make the ultimate sac- the Pledge of Allegiance; each young lady too which program or programs they sale again this year for a $3.00 dona- rifice. We are all WARRIORS, it's a calling was assigned phrases, (such as I Pledge, are going to support for Children and tion. At your District or Post meetings if and not everyone was called to serve. Thank Allegiance, etc.). These phrases were on a Youth this Legion year. You for answering the call. I looked up in the poster and would give the meaning of their one of the committee members has pins dictionary the definition of a Warrior – It phrase. Then later each young lady would At the Fall Conference our commit- available please support us. stated, “A man engaged or experienced in stand up front and speak of their Dad, tee chose the National program We are not asking that a post do all War” In my Native American Culture - “A Grandfather, Uncle, Aunt, who served, Temporary Financial Assistance as the programs but pick 1 or 2 and do them Warrior is the protector of his family, his explaining what they did in the service along highlighted program this year. There well. Department Commander Moore is clan, and his tribe. A Warrior is the Living with pictures of their relative. It was OUT- are needy children of eligible veterans asking that each post get the local news- Spirit of our Grandfathers.” STANDING. across our entire Department who may The Grand Traverse Area Veterans Thus far the post’s I have visited, I am very paper and media involved so as to let the Coalition, includes a five county region, con- impressed with the dedication, honor, loyal- be eligible for some assistance. Contact community know what we do for veter- sisting Veterans Organizations and Civilian ty, and effort that the members I have met are me or a Children and Youth committee ans and children, don't forget the ora- Concerns that number 35, selects a Veteran accomplishing. Even though your Post might member for more information. home torical contest and scholarship programs. of the Year. This veteran not only has to be be going through some trying times, there are 231 546 3281cell 989 350 6137 e-mail also make sure to keep records of what active in his Organization, but also has to Veterans counting on us. Remember, a [email protected] you do and report your accomplishments make a difference in his community serving mountain, an obstruction, a problem is an Any post that has been involved with at the end of the year on the veterans. I'm very proud to congratulate opportunity. If we all work together, The the Student Dictionary project should John Lefler of Post 35 of Traverse City Legionnaires, Legion Riders, The SAL, and Consolidated Post Report. Thank you for receiving the Eagle Award at an annual din- the Auxiliary, in other words The Legion continue to do so. The Child Welfare supporting kids they are our future. ner sponsored by Traverse City Elks. Last Family we can meet and surpass our goals. Foundation program/ and the save our For God, Country, and our youth. January 2013, John took over the DAV Van WHAT EVER IT TAKES. 14| MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | January/February 2014 | WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | January/February 2014 | 15 LEAD 2014 NATIONAL COMMANDER BANQUET RESERVATION FORM Friday, February 14, 2014 At The Holiday Inn Gateway Centre, Flint, MI Cash Social Hour: 6:00 p.m. - Dinner: 7:00 p.m. $25.00 per person Select # of Each: Beef______Chicken ______Fish ______Enclosed is $ ______for a total of ______tickets at $25 each Credit Card #______Exp. Date _____/_____ Name ______E-mail ______Address ______City ______Zip ______Phone (______)______POST/UNIT # _____ Make checks payable and mail to: The American Legion, Department of Michigan, Attn: Kim, 212 N. Verlinden, Ste A, State Adjutant Pat Lafferty presents Leadership Chairman Bud Hansbarger his LEAD Pin, Michigan’s first recipient. LEAD pins are given to any Lansing, MI 48915 Legionnaire who is documented to have completed 8 hours of LEAD DEADLINE FOR RECEIPT OF RESERVATIONS AT DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS Training. Be sure to register at the event, Department keeps track of each class to issue pins. FEBRUARY 10, 2014 No Refunds after 2/10/2014 WINTER MEETING GENESEE COUNTY CONVENTION CORPORATION LEAD TRAINING!! IS PROUD TO PRESENT THE AMERICAN LEGION, DEPARTMENT OF MICHIGAN Saturday February 15th, 2014 NATIONAL COMMANDER'S BANQUET Fundamentals of Fundraising: Saturday 8AM- AND 10AM – Learn the basics of running fundraisers to fund WINTER MEETING your local programs. FEBRUARY 14-16 2014 Legion Riders: Saturday 10AM-12PM – Learn about REGISTRATION: $15.00 per person, you must be registered to attend meetings. the Legion Riders, group building and organization for PAYABLE TO: Genesee County Convention Corporation MAILED TO: Bernie Langlois, 12248 E. Atherton Rd., Davison, MI 48423 your Post CHECKS ONLY PLEASE Saturday afternoon 1PM-4Pm: Officer Training: Department will be giving training on Post Commander, Name______Legion Auxiliary SAL Leg. Riders Adjutant, Finance, and Membership Name______Legion Auxiliary SAL Leg. Riders Panel Discussion: 4PM-5PM: Join us for a panel dis- cussion about Posts and membership recruitment. Name______Legion Auxiliary SAL Leg. Riders Register for LEAD Training at www.michiganle- Name______Legion Auxiliary SAL Leg. Riders gion.org/lead Number x $15.00= ______Walk-ins welcome. ======All room requests and special needs are to be placed through: PRIVATE THE HOLIDAY INN GATEWAY CENTRE Classifieds COLLECTOR 5353 GATEWAY CENTRE, FLINT, MI 48507 BUYING "The contents of advertise- German, Japanese, U.S. mili- PHONE: 1-810-232-5300 ments which appear in the If the Holiday Inn is full please call the Courtyard 1-810-232-3500 Legionnaire are solely the tary items from all wars. Top CODE: ALG responsibility of the advertisers. cash paid for Airborne, DEADLINE: January 14, 2015 Appearance of any advertise- Aviation, Pilot, Seal, Special Located in Mundy Twp. - Hill Rd. at Gateway Center ment in the Legionnaire does Forces, OSS, Ranger, Marine Note: The Code # ALG will allow the hotel to access the room rate of $85.00 + 11% tax. All major not constitute either a recom- items. Also German medals, credit cards are acceptable. mendation, nor an endorse- daggers, swords, guns, person- ment of the goods and servic- ality items and billion flags. When you call for your reservation you should be greeted with “It's a great day at the Holiday Inn es offered therein." in Flint.” If this is not your greeting please hang up and try your call again in 10 to 15 minutes. Also Japanese swords, helmets and guns. The Flint phone # is 1-810-232-5300. If the hotel is full please asked to be transferred to Courtyard. Buying Legion, Auxiliary, SAL, 40/8, VFW, DAV, Masonic, and FOE Call for top cash offer If you have asked the hotel for any special needs and would like to verify them please drop a note in medals, badges, pins, caps,bars, Combat wounded vet with your registration and we will verify them for you. membership cards and Stamp James Leslie (member), Collections. Contact Craig R. Please feel free to contact one of the following with any questions: Wotring, PO Box 1743 Owosso, MI 3540 Timberline Drive Bernie Langlois (Leg.) 810-653-6517 Venus Langlois (Aux.) 810-653-6517 48867, 989-725-9728 Legion Clyde, MI 48049 Dolores Smith (Aux.) 810-694-6018 Member (810) 989-9866 16 | January/February 2014 | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG To Honor

The Lakeshore Marching Band performs music Legionnaire Ernie Lutz, Post 148, Mason, MI received a of their "D-Day" show to veterans at the “Knight of the Legion of Honor” Medal from the people Legionnaire Robert Mitchell and his wife Lillian, Robert Cornerstone University of Grand Rapids on of France for his courage and service in liberating France. holding his 70 years as a Legion Member certificate. Veterans Day. L-R Students Kathleen Risk and Mr. Lutz flew 65 bomber missions in WWII in a B-26. Frank Wendland Post 253 presented Robert his award Liz Ender with WWII Veteran Wilbur Huston to Picture and story from Ingham County Comm. News, Will at a September ceremony. learn about his years of service. Kangas Americanism

The Legion Family of Post 158 has entered schools L-R Gary Wear (Commander Post 45), Russ Hammand American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars members partici- (Fin Officer Post 45), Gary Wieczorek (BINGO Chair Post teaching the kids in their community about the US Flag. pated in the departure ceremony, of MI Army NG Soldiers from the 45), In August the Post made it a mission and provided Legionnaires and Auxiliary members participate in the Grand Ledge Army Aviation Support Facility deploying to Kuwait 250 flags to the local school, with hangers and pro- program. Picture Legionnaires finish showing how to after training in Fort Hood, Texas. (Army National Guard photo by vided the labor to install them. They also gave instruc- properly fold a flag. Sgt. 1st Class Jim Downen/Released) tion to classrooms on proper flag etiquette. Service

When a Korean War era veteran needed help putting on a new roof From left: Furniture City Post 258's Tom Yalacki , Jim The Whole Legion Family from Post 32, during a cold, windy day, Wykstra VFW Post 830, and George Niewiadomski sprung into action and got it done in a few hours. His neighbor who Post 258 plus VFW Post 830. George Niewiadomski Morley American Legion Post # 554 has a “Victory Garden”. The works at Post 32 and is a veteran saw his need and called in rein- is 92 years old with 34 years as a Post 258 mem- food grown in this garden is taken inside the Post, and Veterans ber. He is also a VFW member, with the help of forcements. “Every day is Veterans Day” can take all they need. (Picture) Left to Right - Robert Bauder 10th VFW Post 830 donated 16 pales of tabs to Post District Chaplain, Tom Roesly Founder and Gardener, Don Meskill 258’s tabs for tots program. VFW Post 5014 in District 10 Adjutant, Kenneth Burtch 10th District Commander, Ron Morse Commander of Post. Republic, MI, members A Veterans Town hall Jim Hofbauer and Arvo meeting held at Post Lyyski donated over 150 in Leadership College 315 pounds of tabs to Frankenmuth. (left 2013: State Chaplain to right) are Jason Jennifer Smith poses the American Legion Allen, Senior Deputy with her classmates “Tabs for Tots” pro- Director of Veterans in the National gram. The tabs were Affairs; Lavern Spolarich, American Legion Post Commanders Office collected from all over 212; Michael Knutson, Human Resources Specialist, while on a tour of the community. It takes Compensation and Classification Service, U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs; Brett Holt, American The American Legion approximately 1600 Legion Adjutant Post 439-8th District; Tim Kelly, Natl. Headquarters. tabs to equal 1 pound. State Representative, 94th House District.