0163 QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION —THE AMERICAN LEGION
C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director
HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
AMERICAN LEGION NEWS BRIEFS FOR WEEK ENDING 8-1-75
National Championship finals for The American Legion's Senior and Junior Drum and Bugle Corps will be conducted at 7 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 16, at Parade Stadium in Minneapolis, Minn., in conjunction with the Legion's 57th Annual National Convention.
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Wilson J, Hebert, 55, Louisiana Department Adjutant of The American Legion, died July 25. John C. Bailey, Jr., has been appointed as acting Department Adjutant.
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The Eight and Forty, an organization of American Legion Auxiliary members, has announced approval of fourteen $1,500 Lung and Respiratory Disease Nursing Scholarship awards, for one year's study, to assist nurses in furthering their education.
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Clinton Morrison, Chairman of the Board of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, will address The American Legion's 57th Annual National Convention at approximately 11 a.m., Wednesday, Aug. 20, in Minneapolis Auditorium and Convention Hall.
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The ITT Continental Baking Company, Inc., and the Fleischmann Distilling Corporation will be recipients of The American Legion's 1974 Employer-of-the-Year award for hiring veterans, to be given during the 57th Annual National Convention of the Legion in Minneapolis, Minn., from Aug. 15-21.
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WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—The House, on July 31, by a vote of 364 to 53, passed a bill precluding the armed forces from making any changes in the present commissary system for members of the Armed Forces, retirees and their spouses and seriously disabled veterans and their spouses. The House action would continue the commissary program as it now exists and the bill now must be acted upon by the Senate.
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There will be no American Legion News Service on Aug. 8, the week prior to the National Convention in Minneapolis, Minn., Aug. 15-21. Two mailings of ALNS will be made from the Convention City. Normal ALNS operations will be resumed from Indianapolis on Aug. 29.
-alns- 0165 EJMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION —THE AMERICAN LEGION
C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins. Director
HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 KSt., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release 8-1-75
INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—National Championship finals for The American Legion's Senior and Junior Drum and Bugle Corps will be conducted at 7 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 16, at Parade Stadium in Minneapolis, Minn., in conjunction with the Legion's 57th Annual National Convention.
The Legion's finest units will compete in the colorful and spine tingling ■.performance of music and precision marching as patriotic pageantry comes alive in the host city of the Legion National Convention.
All units among the Legion uniformed groups which participate in any phase of uniformed groups competition at Minneapolis will participate in the National Convention parade the following day.
Both the defending Champion Senior and Junior Drum & Bugle Corps, the Hawthorne [Caballeros, sponsored by American Legion Post 199 of Hawthorne, N.J., and the P.A.L. tCadets, Junior National Champs, of Post 396, Philadelphia, Pa., have entered this year's competition signifying their intent to defend their national championship ititles.
Finalists for the Musical Spectacular will be selected on the basis of a formula to be determined by the National Convention Commission in the Convention city after it has been determined how many Junior and Senior Corps will compete in preliminary competition. Presently 36 Junior and seven Senior units have entered.
There will be an admission charge for the Musical Spectacular, but all Ipreliminary competition is free and open to the public. Junior Drum and Bugle preliminaries are set for 9 a.m., Friday, Aug. 15 at South High School's Bernard IField, with Senior preliminaries scheduled for the same site at 9 a.m., Saturday, |Aug. 16.
A total of 96 units had entered all categories of Legion uniformed groups competition by the July 21 deadline. In addition to Drum and Bugle Corps, there will be competition for Junior and Senior Bands, Junior and Senior Color Guards, |Drill teams, Firing Squads and singing choruses. Defending champions are expected back in the Junior and Senior Color Guard, Senior Band, Chorus and Junior Drill ■Team events in addition to the defending Senior National Championship Drum & Bugle Corps.
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BATON ROUGE, LA.—(ALNS)—Wilson J. Hebert, 55, Louisiana Department Adjutant of The American Legion, died July 25, here.
An Army veteran of World War II, he served 14 years as a field representative for the National Headquarters of The American Legion before his appointment as Louisiana Department Adjutant.
-alns- 0186 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. El Washington, D. C, 20006 Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release 8-1-75
INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—The Eight and Forty, an organization of American Legion Auxiliary members, has announced approval of fourteen $1,500 Lung and Respiratory Disease Nursing Scholarship awards, for one year's study, to assist nurses in furthering their education.
Recipients of the scholarships, upon completion of their studies in nursing, will be employed in either supervision, administration or teaching with a direct relationship to lung and respiratory disease nursing.
In announcing this year's awards, Mrs. Angeline Powell, Illinois, National nursing Scholarship Chairman, said that during the past 19 years, the Eight and Forty has awarded 198 scholarships, totaling $249,000 to help eliminate personnel shortages in this important area of nursing.
Recipients approved for scholarships for the 1975-76 school year are:
NAME HOME STATE SCHOOL TO ATTEND
Mrs. Sharon Joanne Anderson Lancaster, New York S.U.N.Y. at Buffalo Ms. Catherine Mary Barnes Bridgewater, Mass. Southeastern Mass U. Mrs. Sandra Lee Blankenbaker Aurora, Nebraska Texas Women's U. Mrs. Angeline Bushy Miles City, Montana M.S.U. Miss Maureen Callahan Warwick, Rhode Island U. of Arizona Mrs. Susan M. Domske Amherst, New York State U. of NY Mrs. Sara Thomson Fry Laurel Bay, SC U. of South Carolina Miss Maureen Gilligan Staten Island, NY N.Y.U. Miss Kathryn Ann Hesch Whittier, California U. of CA at L.A. Ms. Linda Lou Lyons West Carrollton, OH Catholic U. of Amer. Mrs. Catherine Riley Freeport, New York C.W. Post Center Miss Clare Marie Rodgers Philadelphia, Penn. U. of Virginia Ms. Carole Stolzenbach Wayland, Mass. Fitchburg State College Mrs. Judith Sawyer Wardwell Long Beach, California U.C.L.A.
Mrs. Lawrence D. Hunt, Sr., Le Chapeau National, of Michigan, has advised that the Eight and Forty Nursing scholarships will again be offered for the 1976-77 school year. Announcements regarding eligibility are available from Eight and Forty Scholarship Chairmen or from The American Legion Education and Scholarship Program, P.O. Box 1055, Indianapolis, Indiana 46206, Attn: Eight and Forty Scholarships.
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INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Albert J. Swiderski, Illinois National Executive Committeeman of The American Legion, recently suffered a heart attack and is hospitalized at Wesley Memorial Hospital in Chicago. Friends of Al and Edna may send cards to his home address: 3113 W. 84th St., Chicago, 111. 60652.
-alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director
HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. m Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release 8-1-75
INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Clinton Morrison, Chairman of the Board of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, will address The American Legion's 57th Annual National Convention at approximately 11 a.m., Wednesday, Aug. 20, in Minneapolis Auditorium and Convention Hall. Dr. Richard L. Lesher, Chamber President, will accompany him.
A prominent Minneapolis Banker and business executive, he is vice chairman of the First National Bank of Minneapolis, a $1.8 billion institution, the largest in the First Bank System, Inc. He also serves as chairman of the bank's trust committee.
Mr. Morrison, who began his business career with Shell Oil Co., also is a director of Munsingwear, having joined a company, which has since become an affiliate of Munsingwear, after his World War II military service. In 1953 he was asked by President Eisenhower to serve in a review of the foreign aid mission to Taiwan, and eventually became deputy regional director in charge of all foreign aid in the Far East.
A member of a pioneer Minnesota family he has been active in business and civic affairs of both community and state.
His chamber work began with the Minneapolis Chamber of Commerce, and in 1966 he was elected as director of the National Chamber. He has served two terms as a director, a term as vice president representing the Northwestern Division, and a term as vice chairman immediately preceding his election as chairman.
A graduate of Yale, with a masters degree in business administration from Harvard, Morrison has served on many National Chamber committees, and as chairman of the following: Community and Urban Affairs; Urban and Regional Affairs; the Council on Trends and Perspective; the Community Development Advisory Panel and the NAB-JOBS Advisory Panel.
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WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—An Ohio baking company, and Kentucky distiller will be recipients of The American Legion's 1974 Employer-of-the-Year award for hiring veterans, to be given during the 57th Annual National Convention of the Legion in Minneapolis, Minnesota from August 15-21.
The sixth annual presentation of awards to private industry for outstanding records of employment of veterans, will go to the ITT Continental Baking Company, Inc of Youngstown, Ohio, for employers of more than 200 people, and to the Fleischmann Distilling Corporation of Owensboro, Kentucky, for employers of 200 or fewer.
The awards were created by The American Legion's National Economic Commission to provide an incentive for hiring of veterans when the problem of employment for young veterans of the Vietnam era became so acute. The Legion believes that problem to be no less serious today than when the awards were first created.
(More) 0168 Employer-of-the-Year Awards, page 2
The awards will be presented to William L. Shreck, General Manager of ITT Continental Baking Company and John E. Callery, General Manager of the Fleischmann Distilling Corporation, by The American Legion National Commander James M. Wagonseller. They will be awarded on Wednesday, August 20, during the business session of the National Convention in the Minneapolis Auditorium and Convention Hall.
Continental Baking employs 242 persons, 152 of whom are veterans, for a veteran employment rate of 62.8 percent. Of the 39 employees hired last year, 33 were veterans.
The Fleischmann Distilling Corporation has 113 employees, and 66 are veterans, for a percentage rate of 58. In 1974, 25 were hired and 22 of them were veterans.
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For release 8-1-75
INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Larry Triplett, director of the National Jobs for Veterans Programs of the National Alliance of Businessmen, and several government officials involved in the veterans employment problem, are scheduled to speak before The American Legion's National Economic Commission during the Legion's 1975 National Convention in Minneapolis, Minn., Aug. 15-21.
The American Legion was the originator several years ago of the Jobs for Veterans program to assist young veterans from the Vietnam era in finding suitable employment on their completion of active service. The program named later was adopted by the Federal government and, at the request of the government, the project is continuing under the NAB, with The American Legion still cooperating in the effort.
The Economic Commission will meet Friday and Saturday, Aug. 15 and 16 in the Lincoln Room of the Leamington Hotel. Mr. Triplett is scheduled to speak to the group on Friday morning. Other Friday morning speakers include: Ben Burdetsky, Deputy Secretary of Labor for Manpower, U.S. Department of Labor; Ralph E. Hall, Director, Veterans Employment Service, U.S. Department of Labor, Murray Comarow, Executive Director, Inter-State Conference of Employment Security Agencies; William Eudey, Assistant Postmaster General, Employee Relations, United States Postal Service; and Joseph Beever, Deputy Director, Office of Veterans Reemployment Rights, U.S. Department of Labor.
Friday afternoon speakers will include: L.J. Andolsek, Commissioner, U.S. Civil Service Commission; Herbert A. Doyle Jr., Director, Office of Workers Compensation Programs, U.S. Department of Labor; Robert C. Coon, Director, Loan Guaranty Service, Veterans Administration; and, Louis Laun, Deputy Administrator, Small Business Administration. Saturday's session will be devoted to the internal business of the Commission.
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INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—The fourth annual "One-Arm Dove Hunt," hosted by the citizens of Olney, Texas, for amputees has been scheduled for Sept. 5 and 6, in Olney, approximately 100 miles northeast of Dallas.
Besides the actual dove hunt, there will be a series of other events and dinners to make the two-day affair worthwhile for veteran amputees wishing to attend.
Friday, Sept. 5, has been set aside for registration. Any arm or hand amputee desiring to hunt or "just to fellowship" should contact the One Arm Dove Hunt Association, P.O. Box 582, Olney, Texas 76374. -alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE 0169 NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION
C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director
HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release 8-1-75
AMERICAN LEGION BASEBALL FACTS
(Last of a series on American Legion Baseball)
THE BABE RUTH CONNECTION
INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—The scene was the Perroquet Suite of the Waldorf-Astoria in New York on Monday afternoon, April 7, 1947. The room was swarming with newsreel cameramen, press photographers and reporters. From the number of newsmen present, one would have had reason to believe that the President was coming in for a press conference. But he wasn't. The man the newsmen were waiting for was Babe Ruth. The Babe was coming back to baseball—not to the organized leagues, but to serve as consultant tn The American Legion Baseball program.
Still just a shadow of his former robust self after his illness, the Bambino proudly announced his engagement by the Ford Motor Company as a consultant in connection with its participation in the nationwide Legion Baseball program. It was his first public appearance since he was discharged from the hospital three months earlier and his physical appearance was a shock to those who had seen him before his illness. They looked at the Babe and they couldn't believe it. It was the Babe, all right, this tottering man who shuffled in with an aide on each arm. Yet, somehow, it wasn't. This was the guy who pulled roaring thousands from their seats with the super strength which propelled a ball over distant fences. Now, the Bambino was an old man at 53.
Holding forth under a battery of Klieg lights, the former home-run king, addressed his large audience briefly, as did officials of the Ford Motor Company and The American Legion.
"Fellows, you know how I've always felt about kids playing baseball," Ruth said, in a voice left hoarse by his long siege of poor health. "For the first time in my life, I feel I have a chance to put my ideas into action through the organized program sponsored by The American Legion.
"They call me a 'consultant.' but I want to tell you I plan to work hard at this job—just as hard as my health permits...
"I owe everything I am to the kids. They didn't get up there and hit for me but they were my inspiration all the time. Now I want to pay them back. I'm pretty old and want to do what I can for the kids." The unspoken words being, "before I die."
That's the way Babe came back to baseball after an absence of nine years. They say that "time and tide wait for no man." But weak as he was, the one-time under- privileged kid from Baltimore tried to do something for America's youth before the clock and the current ran out. Although handicapped by his illness, the Babe traveled 50,000 miles around the nation doing promotional work for the American Legion Baseball program. On Aug. 16, 1948, the former home-run king died. (More) 0170 American Legion Baseball Facts, page 2 The idol of many an American boy, the Babe has remained an inspiration for the youngsters and teams battling their way toward the American Legion Baseball championship. He was a towering influence in a game promoting good sportsmanship and citizenship - elementary ingredients for character building and America s future.
50th Anniversary of American Legion Baseball 1925-75
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* Plan to attend the 1975 World Series of American Legion Baseball on Aug. 28 * * through Sept. 1, at Sioux Park Stadium in Rapid City, S.D., and watch future ^ * stars in action. * ******************************************
-alns- For release 8-1-75
INDIANAPOLIS-(ALNS)—Bobby Richardson, former New York Yankee great will be the principal speaker at the Ford Motor Company-American Legion Baseball Banquet. The banquet will be held in the Rushmore Room of the Howard Johnson Motel, Rapid City, S.D. on Wednesday, Aug. 27, at 7 p.m., prior to the 1975 American Legion Baseball World Series. Richardson, a second baseman who had a .266 lifetime batting average, played 12 years with the Yankees. During that time, New York won four World Series.
Other speakers who will address the banquet, include Bowie Kuhn Commissioner of Baseball and Hank Peters, President of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues. -alns-
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y.-(ALNS)-A $10,000 scholarship for children of Vietnam-era prisoners of war and missing in action has been announced by Purolater Services, Inc., of this city. The scholarship will provide $2,500 annually to the winner for a four-year period. A new scholarship will be awarded each year for the next 20 years. The program will continue until all children of POW/MIAs have passed college age.
Further details may be obtained from the scholarship administrator at local high schools. -alns-
BAINBRIDGE, Ga.-(ALNS)-J. Pat Kelly, 79, former Georgia National Executive Committeeman of The American Legion (1939-41), died July 27, here.
A World War I veteran, he also served as Georgia Department Commander of The American Legion in 1937-38. -alns- 0171 QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION- -THE AMERICAN LEGION
C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director
HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 0 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release 8-1-75
WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—A House Subcommittee has voted to return in 1978 to celebrating Veterans Day on November 11 instead of the last Monday in October.
Congress decided in 1968 to make four national holidays fall on Monday in order to give Americans longer weekends. Veterans Day, Columbus Day, Washington's Birthday and Memorial Day all were switched.
But 46 states did not go along with the idea and scheduled the states' version of Veterans Day on the traditional November 11 as the leading veterans groups wished.
Rep. Pat Schroeder (D-Colo.) Chairman of the House Census and Population Sub- committee which decided by voice vote to go along with the states, said, "My Sub- committee today voted to recognize reality."
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CUMBERLAND FORESIDE, ME.—(ALNS)—When the meanest thief stole the American flag from the flag pole in the front yard of a Cumberland Foreside Gold Star Mother, the Maine American Legion responded with the presentation of a new flag.
But the new flag only replaces the original flag, which covered the coffin of the only son of Mrs. Elizabeth Rush of this community, who gave his life in Vietnam over five years ago. Each day, weather permitting, Mrs. Rush would raise and lower the flag as a reminder of her son's sacrifice in defense of the nation he loved.
Mrs. Rush moved to Maine over six years ago because her son loved the Pine Tree State, and with his tragic death, the Gold Star Mother had only the flag and memories of her hero son.
When the meanest thief struck, Mrs. Rush appealed in the local press for the return of the flag to no avail. Department Historian Ralph D. Morgan, together with his wife, who is serving as Americanism Chairman for the state Legion Auxiliary, and assisted by Cumberland County Commander, Donald Hall, secured a new flag and assisted in the special ceremony raising the flag in replacement of the stolen one.
Commenting on the presentation of the flag, Maine American Legion State Commander Robert R. Rich, stated: "It is a tragedy that some people have such little care about the American Flag and yet we find a Gold Star Mother who shows such love and devotion to the national symbol." Rich commended the Legion and Auxiliary for the "warm personal response" to the solution of the problem of the missing flag.
And the "meanest thief" has not been heard from because pleas for the restoring of the stolen flag have gone unanswered.
-alns- INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—The Department of Louisiana has appointed Mr. John G. Bailey, Jr., as acting Department Adjutant. Adjutant Bailey will fill the vacancy created by the death of Wilson J. Hebert on July 25. -alns- 0172 QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION
C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director
HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release 8-1-75
INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—The American Legion's Youthful VIPs, champions and out- standing participants in The American Legion's youth citizenship training programs along with the 1975 President of the American Legion Auxiliary's Girls Nation program, will be distinguished guests at the Legion's 57th Annual National Convention, Aug. 15- 21, in Minneapolis, Minn.
In addition to their distinguished guest role they also will participate in a panel discussion before a joint session of the Legion's Americanism and Children & Youth Commissions at 9:30 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 16, in the East Room of Minneapolis' Curtis Hotel. Their discussion topic will be: "What's Bugging Youth Today?"
The young VIPs will be introduced from the convention platform in Minneapolis' Auditorium and Convention Hall at approximately 10 a.m., Wednesday, Aug. 20, by National Commander James M. Wagonseller, of Lancaster, 0.
Responding for the young people will be Michael B. Begley, 18, of Baltimore, Md., the 1975 American Legion National High School Oratorical Contest champion, a 1975 graduate of Baltimore's Loyola-Blakefield High School, who plans to enter Loyola College in Baltimore this fall. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. James L. Begley, of Baltimore.
Other members of the panel will be: Miss Alma M. Washburn, of Greensboro, N.C., President of the 1975 American Legion Auxiliary Girls Nation; Joe D. Davis, 17, of Muskogee, Okla., President of the 1975 American Legion Boys Nation; Bruce Geske, 18, of Shakopee, Minn., The American Legion Scout of the Year; Edwin Lopez, 19, of Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, 1974 American Legion Baseball Player of the Year (the 1975 Legion Baseball Player of the Year will not be selected until Legion Baseball World Series time, which is after the National Convention), and Kenneth D. Ivory, 18, of Milwaukee, Wis., the Boys Clubs of America Boy of the Year.
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MINNEAPOLIS, MINN.—(ALNS)—"More than an acre of corn on the cob will be served Legionnaires and guests in the Minneapolis Armory Wednesday, August 20," predicts Donald R. Schroedl, President of The American Legion 1975 Convention Corporation.
Five thousand Legionnaires and guests are expected to consume 16,000 cobs of corn, (Green Giant) drenched in butter (Land O'Lakes) and washed down by more than 35 barrels of beer (Grain Belt). There will be no limit on "seconds." Entertainment Chairman Vern Lusk states these companies are furnishing their products at cost.
Lusk has arranged for continuous live Country Western music from the Chill-Hilman 11-piece band. Admittance to the Corn Feed is limited to delegates wearing official attendance badge and guests. Donation is $1. Hours are 4 p.m. to midnight.
-alns- 0173 ■MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION Q C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202)393-4811
For release 8-19-7$
MINNEAPOLIS (ALNS)—"Because of the historic significance of Minneapolis to The American Legion, we have chosen to dedicate this National Convention of our organization to the Society of American Legion Founders—the men of the American Expeditionary Force for World War I, who brought this organization to life in 1919," Legion National Commander James M. Wagonseller said at a press conference held on the opening of the Legion's 57th Annual National Convention here.
The Legion chief told newsmen that the "young men" of that first Minneapolis Legion Convention are the Legion's elder statesmen of today, and that their love of country and their loyalty to the Legion has endured throughout the years.
Wagonseller also pointed out that one of the "time tested" programs the Legion has sponsored through the years—American Legion Baseball—is observing its golden anniversary this year.
Turning to the subject of national security, Wagonseller said that the Legion believes in economy—but not at the expense of endangering our national defense.
He said that the Legion will continue through the coming year to be deeply involved in the observance of America's Bicentennial and cited the fund raising project of the Freedom Bell, which will become the Legion's Bicentennial gift to the Nation on behalf of America's children when the American Freedom Train's run is completed. The National Commander also announced another fund raising project, The American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary Cancer Fund Drive for the American Cancer Society. He said that the coordination of the effort will be at the National level of The American Legion and that funds raised in this manner should be in addition to what local and national cancer funds would normally provide.
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CONCORD, N.H.—(ALNS)—Dr. Robert 0. Blood, 87, former National Vice Commander of The American Legion (1922-23), died Aug. 3, here. A World War I veteran, he also served as Department Commander of New Hampshire in 1922,
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MINNEAPOLIS—(ALNS)—First place in The American Legion Senior Drill Team competition was won by Anoka Unit 102, Anoka, Minn. Following are the unofficial results of the contest:
PLACE UNIT SPONSOR CITY/STATE SCORE
1 Anoka Unit 102 Unit 102 Anoka, Minn. 73.U5 2 Wellsville Post 70 Post 70 Wellsville, Ohio 73.20
-alns- 0174 QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION- -THE AMERICAN LEGION C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director
HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release 8-19-75
MINNEAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Reverend Harvey T. Goodling, National Chaplain of The American Legion, challenged Legionnaires and Auxiliary members to "get back to the original foundations of the faith of our fathers who had a sense of patriotism and a devotion to God." This message was given to delegates attending a memorial ceremony conducted by The American Legion and its Auxiliary as one of the opening events of the Legion's 57th Annual National Convention here.
National Chaplain Goodling theorized that if "those whose lips are closed could speak, they would say—teach our people why we laid down our lives for our country."
Legion National Commander James M. Wagonseller and Auxiliary National President Mrs. Maurice Kubby, led their respective organizations in the Convention's traditional "Patriotic Religious Service" held this year in Orchestra Hall.
In addition to Legion National Chaplain Goodling who delivered the address, Reverend Bernard W. Gerdon (Ind.), Legion Past National Chaplain gave the invocation while Reverend Claude Smithmier, Department Chaplain of the Georgia Legion, gave the memorial prayer.
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MINNEAPOLIS—(ALNS)—"We have no plans to increase our strength. We hope to maintain it at approximately 196 thousand," Brigadier General C. J. Killeen, Director Operations Division, United States Marine Corps, said when speaking to the Legion's National Security Commission.
The Commission, meeting here just prior to the 57th Annual National Convention, heard Killeen describe the force structure of the Marine Corps. He pointed out that the Commandant of the Marine Corps had appointed a special board to make a detailed and comprehensive study of the total Marine Corps Force structure.
"What we will be doing is looking at our force structure to determine the mix of units, weapons, and equipment which is most appropriate for a Marine Corps of 196,000, tasked with the missions we have," the general said.
Killeen stressed that the Marine Corps would remain at the 196,000 troop level which would include active fleet Marine Forces of 3 divisions, 3 aircraft wings and 2 force troop commands.
-alns- 0175 QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director
HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 KSt., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 0 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release 8-19-75
MINNEAPOLIS (ALNS)—Senator Strom Thurmond told The American Legion there are three basic misconceptions about detente, one of which is that with detente we need no weapons. Detente is not worth the paper it is written on unless it is backed by military power, he said.
Senator Thurmond made appearances before both the National Legislative and National Americanism Commissions before marching in the 57th American Legion National Convention parade and returning to Washington later in the day.
The other misconceptions regarding detente, he said, is that with peace comes unilateral disarmament and that defense spending is bankrupting the nation. These notions, he said, are both untrue, and he cited the fact that in 1975-76 defense spending is up by some five billon dollars, a six percent increase, while non-defense spending in that same period has increased by $U8 billion, or 21 percent.
He pointed out that in 1968 defense spending equalled Uk percent of the budget and in the 1976 fiscal year amounted to 21+ percent of the budget,, The Soviets, he said, are now outspending us on military power by 20 percent.
Senator Thurmond also advised the Legion to be on the alert for a move to reduce funding for the Internal Security Subcommittee of the Senate and a possible move to eliminate the committee as was recently done by the House of Representatives. The Congress, he said, must keep itself informed on matters regarding our internal security and it should have its own committees, properly funded, to do the job.
The Senator supported the move to return Veterans Day to November 11, a major Americanism project of The American Legion for several years, and noted the Senate has passed the bill to make the change and the House, at last has reported the bill out of a subcommittee. He also said he was co-author of a bill calling for a committee to revise the flag code and said it should be done before America's Bicentennial year. The Legion has called for a conference for revising the flag code for several years.
Senator Thurmond said he "generally supports and greatly admires" President Ford, but had to part ways with him on the issue of amnesty. He also advised The American Legion there could be moves to extend the life of the clemency board, due to expire Sept. 15>, and stated his own opposition to any such extension and urged the Legion to oppose an extension.
He voiced his opposition to any National Health insurance plan that would include Veterans Administration hospitals, saying he is opposed to any effort to subordinate the VA to HEW or any other federal agency, a position also supported by The American Legion.
-alns- 0176 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION
C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director
HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 0 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release 8-19-75
MINNEAPOLIS—(ALNS)—"For the first time in this nation's history we are challenged by a powerful threat from the sea," Secretary of the Navy J. William Middendorf II, warned members of the Legion's National Security Commission, meeting here prior to the 57th Annual National Convention.
Middendorf said that for the last 200 years the Atlantic and Pacific oceans have been a protective cloak for America, protective buffers. But he added, "this protective cloak is now infested with deadly sharks, and this very day stealthy Soviet ballistic missile submarines — the 'jaws' of Soviet seapower — are on patrol off both our coasts."
"The build-up of the modern Soviet navy is unprecedented," the Secretary said. "From a coastal defense navy in the 1950's, the Soviets have since 1962, outbuilt us in every category of ship except aircraft carriers. Today the Soviet navy has more than two and a half times the number of submarines as your (U.S.) Navy and almost twice the number of major combatants as the U.S. Navy," he said.
The Secretary praised The American Legion for its support by approving Resolution #279 at the 56th Annual Convention in Miami Beach, which reads in part:
"Take immediate steps to restore the United States to a position of global naval supremacy and appropriate adequate monies to ensure the fastest possible modernization of our Navy with emphasis on a balanced sea control force of aircraft carriers, aircraft, other surface ships and submarines."
Referring to the Soviet build-up of seapower, Middendorf said that the Legion's resolution came at the most appropriate time.
The Navy Secretary also said that the reason for the Soviet build-up in seapower was in his opinion quite frankly, "a major emphasis of the Soviet navy is the capability to interdict U.S. and allied sea lines of communication."
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MINNEAPOLIS--(ALNS)--¥ellsville Post 70, of Wellsville, Ohio, has won the national championship in firing squad competition during The American Legion's 57th Annual National Convention here.
Complete unofficial results of the competition are as follows:
PLACE UNIT POST NO. CITY/STATE SCORE
1 Wellsville Post 70 70 Wellsville, Ohio 82.80 2 Blackhawk Rifle Squad 1612 Big Flats, N.Y. 81.80 3 Blackhawks 50 Peever, S.D. 79.90 h Bloomfield Memorial Post 196 Bloomfield, Ind. 73.15 5 Richmond Post 63 63 Augusta, Ga. 72.65 -alns- 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION
C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director
HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release 8-19-75
MINNEAPOLIS—(ALNS)—A dramatic resurgence of the "inner" city during the remaining years of this century will heighten the importance of the American Legion Post as a civic and social center.
So predicts Bernard Goldberg, chairman and president of the American Distilling Company, and himself a Legionnaire. He made the forecast in an address to some 200 members of various Legion committees and department heads assembled here for the 57th Annual National Convention of The American Legion.
"Economic trends and energy shortages are going to force more and more people to live together in the next two decades, which will spark a revival of the inner cities," he said.
As a corollary observation, he noted that the need for "neighborhood meeting places" will grow markedly, offering a promising future for the Legion Post.
The distilling official disclaimed authorship of the predictions, giving credit to the Roper Organization which he said his company had retained to study likely developments in the hospitality field over the next 25 years.
Other developments anticipated over the next quarter of a century were said by Mr. Goldberg, via the Roper study, to include: Super high-rise hotels, almost entirely computer operated; groups of hotels, restaurants and entertainment centers on one site, all enclosed in the same building, so that people can have a choice of things to do and places to go on a one-stop outing; doorless hotel rooms with an electromagnetic shield to ensure privacy and protection; greater restoration of old buildings for dining and entertainment, (Bankers will favor the idea and make money easier to borrow for that purpose. They want to see their communities stabilized) and Legion Posts that will offer the community the combined services of a bar, restaurant — and library!
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MINNEAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Northern Step, sponsored by Post 11, Green Bay, Wis., has taken the junior drill team championship at The American Legion's 57th National Convention here. Complete unofficial results of the contest follows:
PLACE UNIT POST CITY/STATE SCORE
1 Northern Step 11 Green Bay, Wis. 86.55 2 Buccaneers 1 Milwaukee, Wis. 86.20 3 Webster Vanguard 9U2 Webster, N.Y. 76.85 h Saints Jr. Girls 622 Williamsville, N.Y. 1?0.20 5 Brook Park Rangeretts 610 Brook Park, Ohio 69.35 6 Saints Jr. Boys 622 Williamsville, N.Y. 67.60 7 APEC Imperials Jr. Girls 98 St. Paul, Minn. 67.30 8 Trojanette 168 White Bear Lake, 66.55 Minn.
-alns- 0178 QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION
C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director
HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release 8-19-75
MINNEAPOLIS—(ALNS)—The Scarlet Cadets, sponsored by Post 299, Belleville, N.J., has retained its national championship during competition at the Legion's 57th Annual National Convention here.
Complete unofficial results of the junior color guard competition are as follows:
PLACE UNIT POST NO. CITY/STATE SCORE
1 Scarlet Cadets 299 Belleville, N.J. 92.15 2 Chessmen 100 Rochester, N.Y. 91.80 3 Sky Ryders 68 Hutchinson, Kans. 9O.I4.O h (Tied} Brook Park Rangere ttes 610 Brook Park, Ohio 89.35 k (Tied) Buccaneers 1 Milwaukee, Wis. 89.35 6 Vaqueros I87 Elmhurst, 111. 86.85 7 Highlanders 550 Bloomington, Minn. 86.25 8 Debutantes $% Minneapolis, Minn. 86.20 9 Silhouettes 29 Miami, Fla. 86.00 10 Saints 622 Williamsville, N.Y. 85.25 11 Police Youth Corps Lawmen 77 St. Louis, Mo. 83.OO 12 Valiants 15U St. Louis, Mo. 79.14.5 13 Young Admirals 3 Lincoln, Neb. 79.05 1U Scarlet Angels $ Cedar Rapids, Iowa 76.20
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MINNEAP0LIS—(ALNS)—Here are the unofficial results of the preliminary senior drum and bugle corps competition at The American Legion's 57th National Convention:
PLACE UNIT POST NO. CITY/STATE SCORE
1 Hawthorne Caballeros 199 Hawthorne, N.J. 88.95 2 Rhode Island Matadors 60 Providence, R.I* 82.30 3 Crusaders 1+68 Greece, N.Y. 81.20 h Spirit of '76 310 Racine, Wis. 65.65 5 Brass, Inc. 5th Dist St. Paul, Minn. 59.95 6 Govenaires 19 Medelia, Minn. U2.85 7 Governaires 1 Bismarck, N.D. U2.30
-alns- 0179 QMERICAM LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION
C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 0 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release 8-19-75
MINNEAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Here are the results of the preliminary competition of the junior drum and bugle corps contest of the 57th Annual National Convention of The American Legion:
FLACU UNIT POST NO. CITY/STATE SCORE 1 Americanos 38 Appleton, Wis. .30 2 Marquis 71+ 75 Fond du Lac, Wis. 71 .15 3 Blue Notes 38 Ishpeming, Mich. 69 .75 1+ Long Island Kingsmen 9W+ Kings Park, N.Y. 68 The Knights .85 5 350 Geneseo, N.Y. 6i+ .1+0 6 Emerald Knights 5 Cedar Rapids, la. 61+ *10 Sky Ryders 7 68 Hutchinson, Kansas .80 8 Waterloo Chevaliers 63 138 Waterloo, Wise. 63 .70 9 Yankee Marauders 1279 N. Syracuse, N.Y. & 229 Utica, N.Y. 10 63 .35 Statesmen 32 Springfield, 111. 62 11 Wasau Story .55 10 Wasau, Wise. 61 .30 12 Midshipmen 19U Petoskey, Mich. .65 13 Scarlet Knights se 771 Gurney, 111. 51 .75 11+ Mounties 251 Robinsdale, Minn. 51 .65 15 Continental Ambassadors k Wichita, Kan. 50 .1+0 16 Sundowners 53 Eau Claire, Wise. 1+6 .1+0 17 Crimson Cadets 16 Norfolk, Neb. 1+6 18 Princemen .35 1+06 Milwaukee, Wise. 14+ .90 19 Nee Hi's 190 Clinton, la. 20 Lancers 1+3 .25 356 St. Louis, Mo. 39 .25 21 Vaqueros 187 Elmhurst, 111. 22 37 .80 Blue Knights 107 St. Paul, Minn. 36 .30 23 Silhouettes 191 Miami, Fla. 21+ Brass Regiment 35 .65 182 Park Falls, Wis. 35 25 Eye Openers he .35 26 Marshalltown, la. 33 .55 Trfinette, All Girl 117 Thief River Falls, MN33 .50 Young Admirals 27 3 Lincoln, Neb. 21 .20 28 St. Paul Scouts klh St. Paul, Minn. 13 .85 -alns-
"BE COUNTED AGAIN FOR AMERICA"
-alns- 0180 QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION —THE AMERICAN LEGION
C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director
HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release 8-19-7^
WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—National Commander James M. Wagonseller has sent the following telegram to President Ford, following his approval of H.R. 7767 the Veterans Disability Compensation and Survivors Benefits Act of 1975:
"Thank you on behalf of The American Legion for approving H.R. 7767, the Veterans Disability Compensation and Survivors Benefits Act of 1975.
"Your action providing cost of living increases to some 2.2 million service disabled veterans and about 280,000 spouses and children, effective this month continues to reflect your deep concern for our Nation's war veterans and their' dependents and is deeply appreciated.
"We similarly share with you the concept that the cost of benefits to sick and disabled veterans and their dependents is but an extension of the cost of war and therefore the cost of living increases in their benefits you have just approved will be most favorably received from you when you address the delegates to our National Convention in Minneapolis on the 19th."
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MINNEAPOLIS—(ALNS)—"The burden each citizen of our country must bear for national defense amounts to one dollar per day. That is what each one of us contributes. We must ask ourselves not can we afford to continue, but can we afford not to continue."
Those were the words of the Honorable Norman R. Augustine, Under Secretary of the Army, speaking before The American Legion National Security Commission, meeting here during the Legion's 57th Annual National Convention.
During his report to the Commission members on the status of the Army, the Secretary touched on a point of great concern to the Legion, the all-volunteer Army.
"Most all of our experience with the volunteer Army to date has been good. Today's Army is full strength — in essence, there is now a waiting list to get into the Army — and the quality is getting better and better each day," he said.
Augustine pointed out that it was just 200 years ago that the Army was first formed, and "in those 200 years the Army has never failed our country when called upon," but, he concluded, "it is our duty to be sure that we don't fail our Army."
-alns- oiar 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION- ■THE AMERICAN LEGION C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director
HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release 8-19-75
C00PERST0WN, N.Y.-(ALNS)—Edwin Lopez of Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, 197U American Legion Baseball Player of the Year, was honored by the National Baseball Hall of Fame and The American Legion during a plaque presentation before a crowd of nearly 10,000 fans at Doubleday Field here, Monday, August 18. Lopez was an outfielder on the 197U American Legion National Championship Team sponsored bv Monte Carlo Post No. 11+6.
The plaque was presented to the Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico Legion star just prior to the San Francisco Giants-Boston Red Sox Hall of Fame Game.
By virtue of a special arrangement with officials of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, an American Legion Baseball player is selected each year from competing teams at the Legion's World Series as the "American Legion Baseball Player of the Year." The player's picture is mounted upon a plaque and placed in the Game's Shrine. The selection is made on the basis of playing ability, integrity mental attitude, cooperation, citizenship, sportsmanship and general good conduct. '
Selection committee members included representatives of the Baseball Writers Association of America, The American Legion, Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum American Association of College Baseball Coaches and the National Association'of Professional Baseball Leagues.
American Legion Baseball was represented by 30 of its roster of most famous graduates in the 1975 Hall of Fame Game, according to Daniel J. O'Connor, Jackson Heights, NY, Chairman of The American Legion's National Americanism Commission.
Of the National League of San Francisco Giants, 17 players came to major league fame via Legion Baseball. They are: Glenn Adams, Jim Barr, Tom Bradley, Jake Brown Mike Caldwell, Pete Falcone, Dave Heaverlo, Marc Hill, Von Joshua, Gary Lavelle Randy Moffitt, Bobby Murcer, Steve Ontiveros, Dave Rader, Craig Robinson, Mike Sadek and Gary Thomasson.
On the American League Boston Red Sox, 13 Legion Baseball representatives will include: Tim Blackwell, Jim Burton, Bernie Carbo, Denny Doyle, Carlton Fish, Bob Heise, Bill Lee, Rick Miller, Bob Montgomery, Jim Rice, Jim Willoughby, Rick Wise and Carl Yastrzemski.
American Legion Baseball's £0th Anniversary World Series will be played at Sioux Park Stadium, Rapid City, South Dakota, August 28-September 1, 197$.
-alns- 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION —THE AMERICAN LEGION
C. D DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watklns, Director
HEADQUARTERS GO P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 m (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release 8-21-7*3
MINNEAPOLIS—(ALNS)-Harry G. Wiles, 59, of Topeka, Kansas, was elected National Commander of The American Legion for 1975-76 at the closing session of the 57th Annual National Convention of the 2,700,000-member war veterans organization in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on Aug. 21, 1975.
A veteran of World War II service in the U.S. Navy, Wiles is the third Kansas Legionnaire to he elected to The American Legion's top office.
Wiles was born in Macksville, Kansas, where he received his early education. He earned a B.S. degree from the University of Kansas, having majored in finance. He also earned L.L.B. and J\iris Doctor degrees from the University of Kansas School of Law. While attending the University of Kansas, he was captain of the K.U. track team, and set a Big Eight record in the 220 yard low hurdle event that stood for 22 years.
His World War II service was as a naval officer in the Office of Naval Intelligence from 19^3 to 19U6. He graduated from the U.S. Naval School of Oriental Languages at the University of Colorado, specializing in the Japanese language.
Following the war, Wiles joined Courtney M. Long American Legion Post No. 53, St. John, Kan. He served his Post as Judge Advocate and Post Commander. He has also served in several offices at the Department level including Judge Advocate 1968-69; Vice Commander 1969*1970; and Commander 1970-71.
In addition to his post and department offices he was State Freedom Flame Chairman, member and legal advisor to State Headquarters Building Committee; and Department Liaison Officer to the American Legion Auxiliary of Kansas. He is a member of the Department Planning and Advisory Committee.
Wiles has also been active on the National level, having served on the National Americanism Council and served as National Vice Commander 1971-72, having been elected to that position at the 53rd annual National Convention in Houston, Texas. Just prior to his election to the Legion's top position of leadership, he served as a member of the National Commander's Advisory Committee.
A practicing attorney, Wiles has served in a variety of public posts including county attorney, Stafford County, Kan.; city attorney and police judge. He was also a member and chairman of Kansas Corporation Commission and is presently Chief Right of Way Department, Kansas State Highway Commission. In 196)4, he was a candidate for the office of Governor of Kansas, being defeated for that office by less than one percent of the total vote cast.
His civic activities have included State President and National Director and International Director, Kansas Junior Chamber of Commerce; National Vice President United States Jaycees; International Treasurer Junior Chamber International; J.C.I. Senator; and State Chairman, Cancer Society.
(More) 0183 National Commander Harry G. Wiles, page 2
y? d fomer f C 5 H^aCt^ion^: - **" ° »*-* <* ^) SSL
Elks Ind&F^r *S ^ Legi0v men*ershiP Wil°* !■ also active in Masonic Bodies, 5Sm?< ^ i i f i8 a member of the Kansas Bar Association, American Bar Association, Federal Bar AssociationA and National Lawyers Club He iHlsT Director, former President and presently Chairman of Board of Directors of Farmers & Merchants State Bank of Macksville. "irecxors, of
Wiles and his wife, the former Dorothy Jane Shearer reside in Toneka Thev are the parents of three children, two daughters and one son, The SSffamSv is American Legion oriented. Wiles' mother was a long time member of the Le^ meSelAuX^lary f"4 K* wife» *»° daughters and tSo granddaSters a^SlSry members. His uncle, Harry B. Wiles (after whom he was namedWas the first r 9 9) f h me t0Wn d WB B n Ha ?aZrt p0st' ° ^ ° *"*• " ° » ^ S ZS£ toMs
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For release 8-21-7^ MH^EAPOLIS~(ALNS)~Long-time New York Department Adjutant Maurice Stember was named a Past National Commander of The American Legion by actio^of th« S+h Annual National Convention at the opening sessional lug! if. 5? Past National Commander Daniel F. Foley, (1963-6L) read Resold™ «« o previously approved by the National Executive iomSttee,^££l££S, who has served U8 years as adjutant of the Department of New York a IW w»+7™oin ^ Joe L. Matthews, of Texas, Past HatioSafSlSJ^^l^fe) setondellnt ac??T * which was then passed by the Convention. W Seconded the action
1UUOn be tW aa: 1 t9mber the title of Past not nSt M!°i ! i m? ? National Commander noted not only his long service to The American Lesion of New York >™+ anmJ™ * "profound and dynamic leadership" recognize^St^ mtWl'Wl! 3 ^ °f plaauflaSonfl^Jn^ H?11"} VT* f*sented Sfmber the Past National Commander's E li?! dZLS f £ I?Catf ^rtram G' DaviS P»««nted the credentials making mm a life delegate to National Conventions, Mrs. Muriel Stemho-r n«flo«+^ ******* husband the Past National Commander's dla^^^^^yS'r^i^ Com^S. 0mmltteeman *"" Bened6tt0 Pre86nted ^e *"** of the p2t NaSonaf
In accepting the honor Stember said, "I owe The American Legion more than I oan ever repay and through the Legion I have made thousands of friends I Xve «■hi continued, "had a report from my wonderful specialist indicSn^ IViU^e around a ^i^Legion!^11 X C3n t0 h6lP ^ m°St ^^ °^-?fon T^M^L
-alns- 0184 QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION
C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director HEADQUARIcRS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202)393-4811
For release 8-21-7E;
MINNEAPOLIS—(ALNS) — President Gerald R. Ford told about 8,000 Legionnaires in the Minneapolis Auditorium and Convention Center here that U.S. efforts to limit nuclear arms and improve Soviet relations will not impair the nation's defense.
Addressing the Legion's 57th National Convention here the President said that continued detente with the Russians "means mutual respect and reciprocity, not unilateral concessions or one-sided agreements."
Defending his defense policy on military preparedness, the President emphasized his determination "to resist unilateral disarmament."
"Our potential adversaries are certainly not reducing the levels of their military power. The United States must be alert and strong, and it will be," the President added. Cheered on by the enthusiastic applause of Legionnaire delegates, the President repeatedly sounded the theme of maintaining a strong defense, while striving to improve relations between the world's two super powers.
In his first public comment on the Portugal situation, the Legionnaire President said that the wishes of the majority of the people of Portugal have been thwarted by the current Communist government. He said he was hopeful that a vast majority of Portugese who support "the democratic process" will prevail in the conflict with the Communists. Turning to the subject of Congressional efforts to restrict the activities of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)—which is now under investigation by the Senate and House—the President warned that any "reckless" Congressional action could "cripple" the effectiveness of legitimate and necessary American intelligence services. "Intelligence in today's world is absolutely essential to our nation's security- even survival," Ford emphasized. The President, wearing his Legion cap, was interrupted by applause 27 times in his speech. -alns-
"BE COUNTED AGAIN FOR AMERICA" "12S 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director
HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis. Indiana 46206 Washington. D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release 8-21-75
MINNEAPOLIS—(ALMS)—"Have we had it in this country?" was the question put to the 57th Annual National Convention of The American Legion by Clinton Morrison, Chairman of the Board of the United States Chamber of Commerce.
The ability to survive as a nation depends on three factors, Morrison said. First is a people's belief in a set of aims, second is the economic and technical strength to support the weapons systems required for defense, and third ie the military capability of defending itself against aggressors.
In suggesting the route to national survival and growth in peace and freedom Morrison saids "Let us unfetter our industrial Gulliver and judge every government official, elected or appointed, on whether or not their actions strengthen or weaken our economic system.
"Problems of the day are complicated enough without further fogging them up with polemics or otherwise, Let's be skeptical of ourselves and anybody else who confuses critical issues with his own selfish ends .
"As individuals and as citizens, we have the obligation to involve ourselves in the affairs of our communities and our nation. We in the Chamber movement, you and I in the Legion have the muscle, the leadership and the capability to get the job done. Let's get at it! Let's take care of things," he concluded.
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MINNKAPOLIS—(ALNS) — Curt Gowdy, sportscaster for NBC-Television, received the National Commander's Special Citation Award from National Commander James M. Wagonseller at the National Commander's banquet for distinguished guests during the Legion's 57th Annual National Convention here.
"I remember how important The American Legion Baseball program was to me. The impact it made on me amd made me a fan of American Legion Baseball for the rest of my life," Gowdy told an audience of over 2,000.
"I hope you never waiver from that program...The American Legion program is the supreme program in this country for young boys," he added.
Gowdy was honored by The American Legion for his recognition of American Legion Baseball's contribution to professional baseball and as a youth training program.
-alns- 0186 QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director
HEADQUARTERS HI P. O. Box 1055 1608 KSt., N. W. Indianapolis. Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release 8-21-7$
MIMMEAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Michael B. Begley, of Baltimore, Md., the 1975 American Legion National High School Oratorical Champion, told the Legion's 57th Annual National Convention here that "mere involvement does not serve the needs of this era—we must make an unlimited commitment to the service of something greater than one's self."
Young Begley's remarks came as he responded to American Legion National Commander James M. Wagonseller's introduction of the Legion's youth program champions. Also introduced were Bruce A. Geske, of Shakopee, Minn., American Legion Scout-of-the-Year; John E. Prank, of Caldwell, Idaho, Vice President of Boys Nation; and Edwin Lopez, of Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, 197U American Legion Baseball Player-of-the-Year. Kenneth Ivory, of Milwaukee, Wis., representing Boys Clubs of America, was named, but was not in attendance as he was registering for his freshman year of college.
The youthful speaker was referring to the requirements for Americans as we approach our country's Bicentennial year, and what he visualized as being needed for the "perpetuation of the hard won elements of civilization and the ideals of a society of free and responsible men..."
He continued to say: "Let us recommit ourselves to the spirit of the patriots who coveted freedom, risked death in its defense, stood solidly as a nation and never entertained notions of a defeat in striving for a better America."
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MINNEAPOLIS--(ALNS)—The Department of Vermont is the winner of the Hearst Americanism Trophy for 1975 based on department Americanism activity as determined by a percentage point system reported on Americanism and Post Activities report forms.
The presentation was made from the platform of the Legion's 57th Annual National Convention in Minneapolis, Minn., by Daniel J. O'Connor of New York, Chairman of the Legion's National Americanism Commission, and accepted by Melvin "Doc" Simon, immediate past commander of The American Legion of Vermont.
Minnesota was declared the winner of the Prank N. Belgrano, Jr., trophy as the department having the most outstanding record of service to the program of Boy Scouts of America.
The Ralph T. O'Neil education trophy, going to the department reporting the most outstanding participation in the school medal award program, went to the Department of Louisiana for 1975.
-alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION
C D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director
HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. m Indianapolis. Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release 8-21-75
MINNEAPOLIS—(ALNS)—"I see nothing in the near future of a cataclysmic nature aB far as veterans' affairs are concerned," the Honorable Richard L. Roudebush, Administrator of Veterans Affairs, told delegates at the opening session of the 57th Annual American Legion National Convention here.
Roudebush said that although he did not see anything that would cause great change, he did see the need to try to anticipate and understand what change there would be.
The former U.S. Congressman said that there was a definite need to continue to work hard to make certain that programs do not fall into disrepair or become outmoded, and to make certain that needs of individuals are met.
Roudebush added that there was a real need for the VA and Legion to continue their cooperation. He said that if the Legion provided the benefit of its knowledge, the VA would give the best service it could possibly give.
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MINNEAPOLIS—(ALKS)—Joliet Legion Band of Post 128U, Joliet, 111, has successfully defended its title as national champion senior band at the Legion's 57th National Convention here. Unofficial results of the senior band competition are as follows:
PLACE UNIT POST NO. LOCATION SCORE
1 Joliet Legion Band 1281+ Joliet, 111. 90.70 2 Aurora American Legion 8U Aurora, 111. 83.70 Band 3 Oconomowoc American 91 Oconomowoc, Wis. 63. U0 Legion Band k Greater Kansas City 5th Dist. Kansas City, Mo. 57.933 Legion Band Posts
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MINNEAPOLIS—(ALWS)—Two Legionnaires are the proud owners of new automobiles as the result of the annual Seagram Posts Ford Awards made at The American Legion's 57th National Convention here. They are Frank Wiloox of Post 501, Madison, Wis., and Grover C. Chapman of Post 21, Morganton, N.C.
-alns- 0188 MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION a C. D. DeLoach. Chairman Jame3 c Watkins Director HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 KSt., N. W. m Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 0 (202) 393-4811
For release 8-21-75 MINNEAPOLIS--(ALNS)--Marvella Bayh, wife of Indiana Senator Birch Bayh, paid tribute to The American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary for entering intfa cooperative arrangement with the American Cancer Society to raise funds for cancer
Mrs. Bayh spoke at the opening session of the Legion's 57th Annual National Convention here, site of the first Legion convention in 1919. Mrs. Bayh, whHpoke as a representative of the American Cancer Society, was responding totfaj formal announcement of the joint cooperative effort by National CoianS? James M! Wnseller during his report to the convention, just prior to her appearance; ^agonseller,
+ A^t S*™*°*'* wife, who as a high scholl student was President of Girls Nation noted that the youth of America has always been one of the major concerns of Thf American Legion, and emphasized that cancer takes the lives of moS s^ol^LeT children than any other disease. ecnooi-agea
She expressed her appreciation to the Legion and Auxiliary saying, "the dollars that you raise and contribute will make it possible to fight Sis epUemic in Se fSSJ^'ihiTIS?centers*dootor,8 office8'h08pltaS -d in ^olinJte
"Just as you in the Legion and Auxiliary have helped America win aeainat foreign fees, with your help we will win the war against cancer?" ^
WilU C ailnan of the Board M™ I' t^* f' 5 » American Cancer Society, who followed Mrs Bayh as a speaker for the Society echoed her sentiments when he said "the moral and material support of The American Legion, dedicated to ?his Sm nJt surelv bring us closer to a world free of this disease." ' ^rely
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MIMEAPOLIS--(ALNS)^According to local Minneapolis police and news media approximately 200,000 persons watched The American Legion parade the^£+7^ pagentry prior to the 57th Annual National Convention here. ' traditional
T 8 d oated to the Amea ForM f s ho„or of z:s^.r^:„w:" ° ° *■» *«* ^°°- *« -alns- 0189 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION
C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director
HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release 0-21-75
MINNEAPOLIS—(ALwS)—In close competition, the Jersey Chevrons, sponsored by- American Legion Post UO, Ridgefield Park, N.J., have retained the championship senior color guard title during the Legion's 57th National Convention here.
Scoring 91.05 points in the senior color guard contest of the convention's uniformed groups competition, the Jersey Chevrons edged out, "by .95 of a point, Greece Post U68, which wound up with a total of 90.10.
Complete unofficial results of the senior color guard competition are as follows:
PLACE UNIT POST NO. LOCATION SCORE
1 Jersey Chevrons U0 Ridgefield Park, NJ 91.05 2 Greece Post 1+68 Rochester, N.Y. 90.10 3 Lindsay Post 128 Lindsay, Calif. 89.U5 h 1st National Band 985 Chicago, 111. 89.05 of Chicago 5 Lawrence Lake U76 Lawrence Lake, Minn. 85.95 6 Albany Post 10 10 Albany, Ore. 8U.95 Bicentennial 7 Bloomfield Memorial Post 196 Bloomington, Ind. 81.70 8 Richmond Post 63 Augusta, Ga. 81.30 9 Flanagan-Dorn Post 29U Hartland, Wis. 76.25 10 Blackhawks 50 Peever, S.D. 7U.1+0
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MINNEAPOLIS—(ALNS)—The Singing Legionnaires of Post 15, Sioux Falls, S.D., have retained their title as the national champion chorus at The American Legion's 57th National Convention here.
Unofficial results of the chorus competition are as follows:
PLACE UNIT POST N0j_ LOCATION SCORE
1 Singing Legionnaires 15 Sioux Falls, S.D. 83.8OO 2 Cudworth Male Chorus 23 Milwaukee, Wis. 79.666 3 Sidney Singing Soldiers 217 Sidney, Ohio 79.583 k Chord-Ayres 72 Appleton, Minn. 70.583 -alns- 0190 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION- -THE AMERICAN LEGION
C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins. Director
HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 0 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release 8-21-75 MINNEAPOLIS--(ALNS)—National Commander James M. Wagonseller launched The American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary's cooperative fund raising effort with the American Cancer Society in grand style from the platform of the 57th Annual National Convention when contributions from New York and Ohio totaling $32,500 were made in response to his formal announcement of the campaign.
Howard Henrichsen, outgoing Commander of the Department of Ohio, was first to come to the microphone to make a Department contribution of $5,000 for The American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary Freedom Bell fund.
He was followed immediately by Dean Scholl, incoming Ohio Department Commander, who presented a check for $5,000 to the cooperative cancer fund campaign. Roger Munson, Ohio's National Executive Committeeman assisted with both presentations. The Ohio contributions were followed immediately with four Cancer Fund gifts from the Department of New York totaling $27,500. A $25,000 check was given by the Department, checks for $1,000 each were given by Past National Commander and Mrs. Maurice Stember, and a $500 gift came from Carmine Constantino of the Kings County, N.Y. organization of the Legion, in memory of lus wife and daughter who both were cancer victims.
Commander Wagonseller described plans for the year-long cooperative effort by the Legion and Auxiliary with the American Cancer Society saying that its purpose is to bring extra funds into the fight against cancer, over and above what would normally be realized through local and national cancer drives "to help go that extra mile, or perhaps by this time it may just be that extra step, that will brin* a breakthrough in the fight against this terrible disease."
Mrs. Marvella Bayh, wife of Senator Birch Bayh, of Indiana, and a former president of American Legion Auxiliary Girls Nation, herself a recent cancer patient, and Armin Willig, of Louisville, Ky., Chairman of the Board of Directors, American Cancer Society, responded to the National Commander's announcement, each expressing the hope that the new fund raising project will help bring about victory over cancer in our lifetimes. lfl„ Commander Wagonseller also announced a new year of Legion membership growth for IVJOC 91k t0tal already surpassed and total growth in the neighborhood of 25,000 expected. He noted too, Legion legislative achievements of the past year including an improved G.I. Bill of Rights for Vietnam era veterans.
-alns- 0191 EJMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins. Director
HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 KSt., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202)393-4811
For release 8-21-75
MINNEAPOLIS—(ALNS)— The Hawthorne Caballeros of Post 199, Hawthorne, N.J., successfully defended their title as senior drum and bugle corps champions during the 57th National Convention of The American Legion here.
Placing second were the Rhode Island Matadors, Post 60, Providence, R.I., followed by the Crusaders, Post 1+68, Greece, N.Y.
Marquis of Post 751 Pond du Lac, Wise, captured the junior drum and bugle oorps crown before a crowd of some 12,000 people at Parade Stadium.
Complete unofficial results of the drum and bugle corps final contest are as follows:
Senior Drum and Bugle Corps
PLACE UNIT POST NO. LOCATION SCORE
1 Hawthorne Caballeros 199 Hawthorne, N.J. 89.30 2 Rhode Island Matadors 60 Providence, R.I. 82.90 3 Crusaders I468 Greece, N.Y. 82.00 k Spirit of '76 310 Racine, Wis. 62.U0 5 Brass, Inc. 5th Dist. St. Paul, Minn. 62.20
Junior Drum and Bugle Corps
PLACE UNIT POST NO. LOCATION SCORE 1 Marquis 75 Fond du Lac, Wis. 77.65 2 Americanos 38 Appleton, Wis. lk.k$ 3 Long Island Eingsmen 9I4I4. Kings Park, N.Y. 67.75 k Blue Notes 58 Ishpeming, Mich. 66.70 5 The Knights 350 Geneseo, 111. 61.00
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MINNEAPOLIS--(ALNS)—The 1975 National Champions of American Legion Uniformed groups competition are as follows: Senior Drum and Bugle Corps, The Hawthorne Caballeros, Post 199, Hawthorne, N.J.; Junior Drum and Bugle Corps, Marquis, Post 75, Fond du Lac, Wise; Senior Drill Team, Anoka Unit 102, Unit 102, Anoka, Minn.; Junior Drill Team, Northern Step, Post 11, Green Bay, Wis.; Firing Squad, Wellsville, Post 70, Wellsville, 0.; Junior Color Guard, Scarlet Cadets, Post 299, Belleville, N.J.; Senior Color Guard, Jersey Chevrons, Post 1+0, Ridgefield Park, N.J.; Junior Field Band, Chatfield High School Band, Post 92, Rochester, Minn.; Chorus, Singing Legionnaires, Post 15, Sioux Falls, S.D.; and Senior Band, Joliet Legion Band, Poet 128U, Joliet, 111.
-alns- 0192 □ MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION
C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 KSt., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release 8-21-7$
MINNEAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Anybody for Armadillo—for dinner that is?
Joseph R. Leslie, Newly-elected commander of Lowe McFarlane Post lU, of The American Legion, Shreveport, La., and Shreveport Mayor Calhoun Allen, Jr., jointly issued a challenge to The American Legion's four largest membership posts, and to the post immediately behind them in membership, that the Shreveport Post would have a larger 1976 membership than any of them by November 11, 1975. The Shreveport post currently ranks number five.
Terms of the wager are steak dinner for the winner—Armadillo for the losers.
The five Posts involved are Lincoln Post No. 3. Lincoln, Neb.; Minneapolis Richfield Post No. H35; Omaha Post No. 1, Omaha, Neb.; V/estphal Post No. 251, Robbinsdale, Minn.; and Leyden-Chiles Wickersham Post No. 1, of Denver, Colo. The Department (State) Commanders, Adjutants, National Executive Committeemen and Membership Chairmen of the states involved also are involved in the challenge.
The unusual wager took place during the session of The American Legion's Membership and Post Activities Committee, at tha Legion's National Convention here.
Nobody stated any preference as to how they would like their Armadillo cooked.
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MINNEAPOLIS (ALN3)—"Commit yourselves as individuals and make things happen," Russ Gibb, director of Youth and Education for the American Revolution Bicentennial Commission, told members of the Legion's National Americanism Commission here.
A former teacher and television personality, Gibb emphasized the importance of becoming personally involved at the community level in the nation's Bicentennial observance. He also described the work of the Bicentennial Commission as it involves young people, and suggested to Legion delegates attending the 57th National Convention that they should help youth become involved in the celebration.
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MINNEAPOLIS (ALNS)—A new national champion junior field band has been crowned at The American Legion's 57th National Convention here, as the Chatfield High School Band sponsored by Post 92, Rochester, Minn., took top honors. Complete unofficial results of the competition are as follows:
PLACE UNIT POST NO. CITY/STATE SCORE
1 Chatfield High School 92 Rochester, Minn. 71.85 Band 2 Milwaukee Continental U15 Milwaukee, Wis. 65.U5 Youth Band 3 Mater Dei Marching Clinton Co. Cncl. Breese, 111. U7.80 Knights -alns- 0193 QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION
C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 KSt., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 0 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release 8-21-75
MnttffiAPOLIS—(ALNS')—Mrs. Alan Schanel, of Riverside, R.I., has been elected National President of the American Legion Auxiliary by action of the Auxiliary's 1975 National Convention conducted here simultaneously with the Legion's 57th Annual National Convention.
Other officers elected to serve with Mrs. Schanel are: Mrs. Paul Brown, of Filer, Idaho, National Vice President; Mrs. Lynn Ransdell, of West Lafayette, Ind., Central Division, National Vioe President; Mrs. Eugene LeCompte, of Middlebury, Conn., Eastern Division, National Vice President; Mrs. Lester P. Henkens, Chadron, Neb., Northwestern Division. National Vice President; Mrs. William D. Chester, Jr., Louisville, Ky., Southern Division National Viee President, and Mrs. James White, of Ventura, Calif., Western Division National Vice President.
Mrs. George Gibbs, of Baltimore, Md., was named National Historian, and Mrs. Clarence Engh, Letcher, S.D., was named National Chaplain.
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HINNEAPOLIS—(ALMS)—Bill Conrad, star of t .levision series "Cannon" received The American Legion's 6th annual "Good Guy Award" from Past Department Commanders' Club President Joe L. Matthews at the annual luncheon meeting of the club during the Legion's 57th Annual National Convention here.
Conrad, who was introduced by C. D. DeLoach, Chairman of the Legion's National Public Relations Commission, quoted the poem of Francis Scott Key—"The Star Spangled Banner"—during the ceremony.
The "Good Guy Award" is presented annually to an individual deemed to have made a significant contribution to the American scene. Conrad joins such internationally known personalities as Jackie Gleason, Bob Considine and George Jessel in the ranks of the Past Department Commanders Club "Good Guys."
The Past Department Commanders' organization consists of more than 500 Legionnaires who have held the highest elective offices in their respective departments.
-alns- ESMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION —THE AMERICAN LEGION
C. D. DeLoach. Chairman James C. Watkins, Director
HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release 8-21-75
MINNEAPOLIS—(ALKS)—A host of new, hard-hitting resolutions covering various segments of the Legion's programs have been passed by the 1975 American Legion National Convention here. The resolutions are the new mandates for guiding the organization during the coming year. The resolutions appear by commission.
AMERICANISM
1133. U3U—Reaffirm support of the marksmanship programs and urge increased support and encouragement to the marksmanship programs.
RES. J436—Urge the Subcommittee on Internal Security of the U.S. Senate Judiciary be continued and adequately funded to meet the current security exigencies which are critical to the preservation of the internal security of the United States.
RES 21+9—Support the statement of FBI Director Clarence Kelley and call upon our citizens to lend full support to the investigative agencies of our country charged with national security responsibilities and encourage the United States Congress to give deep consideration to any actions which would tend to hamper these agencies in fulfilling their responsibilities to all citizens.
CONSOLIDATED RESOLUTIONS 5, 292, 32)4, 330, 1+21 and 36—Reaffirm complete confidence in the capability, integrity and indispensable need for continued excellent service of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Central Intelligence Agency.
RES. 288—Urge the Congress of the United States to adopt legislation which will prohibit the employment of illegal aliens and that all members of The American Legion communicate with the members of the Senate Judiciary Committee, urging them to report the bill favorably to the floor of the Senate for action.
CONSOLIDATED RESOLUTIONS 171, 209, 2^0, 271, 326 and 331—Urge Congress to Restore the House Internal Security Committee.
FOREIGN RELATIONS
RES. 335—Reaffirm the continuing policy of The American Legion urging the United States to continue its economic boycott of Cuba, in cooperation with the Organization of American States, if possible, but alone if necessary, and refuse to enter into any form of diplomatic, consular or commercial relations with Castro's government.
RES. 107 & 337—Recognizing the turn of Portugal toward a pro-communist military autocracy, The American Legion urges the United States to refuse to provide economic aid to Portugal unless we retain full and free use of the Azores military base, and Portugal ceases its harassment of free, democratic forces in its country.
(.More) Commission Reports Continued, Page 2 0195
RES. 336—Expresses the appreciation of The American Legion for the contribution of the Greek and Turkish people to the cause of the free world, and support for mediation or other peaceful efforts to assist in resolving their differences. Also, urges the United States Navy to take every possible measure to insure present U.S. and Nato bases in Greece and Turkey operate without restrictions, and urges Congress to immediately lift the embargo on military assistance to Turkey.
FINANCE
RES. 1—National per capita dues for the year 1976 be fixed in the amount of 02.50 on all dues paid on or before June 15* 1976, and remitted to the national organization by the various Departments postmarked.
VETERANS AFFAIRS AND REHABILITATION
RES. 55—Assure that the Veterans Administration shall continue to be the sole independent establishment in the Executive Branch of the United States Govern- ment responsible for the administration and execution of benefit programs and service provided by law for veterans, their dependents, and beneficiaries.
RES. 158—Oppose any legislation which would cause any change in the Federal Tax Exempt Status of veterans or ex-servicemen's disability benefits.
RES. J4.23—Urge appropriation of eight million dollars for National Cemetery construction during Fiscal Year 1976.
RES. lL(.0—Seek legislation to improve the death and disability pension program for veterans of World War I, World War „I, the Korean and Vietnam Wars, and for their widows and children.
RES. 157—Oppose that provision of the Vietnam Era Readjustment Assistance Act of 197U which restricts use of eligibility beyond 36 months to undergraduate study.
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MLNNEAPOLIS—(ALES)—National Commander Harry Wiles' leadership team for his term of office, as elected by action of the 57th Annual National American Legion Convention, is as follows: National Vice Commanders, T.W. "Tom" Miller, of Little Rock, Ark.; John W. Adams, Jr., of Elizabethtown, Ky.; Leo F. Malloy, of Cambridge, Mass.; James F. Walker, of Robbinsdale, Minn., and Fred W. Anderson, Jr., of Reno, Nevada. The new National Chaplain for 1975-76, also elected by the National Convention, is Rev. Claude E. Smithmier, of Atlanta, Ga.
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MTNNEAPOLIS—(ALUS)—Daniel 0'Sullivan, National Sales Manager, Seagrams Distillers, whose company handled the 1975 National Convention commemorative bottle, a bottle shaped like the old Ft. Snelling, made a presentation of $250 to Frank Momsen, Adjutant of The American Legion of Minnesota, to be given to the Minnesota Historical Society for use in the restoration of the old Fort. The presentation coming on the National Convention platform, National Commander James M, V/agonseller announced it would be matched by a check from the National Organization of The American Legion.
-alns- 0196 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION- ■THE AMERICAN LEGION
C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director
HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 KSt., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
AMERICAN LEGION NEWS BRIEFS FOR WEEK ENDING 8-29-75
Support for increased military strength, expansion of the National Crime Resistance program and support for adequate funding of the Defense Civil Preparedness Agency were among major items commanding the attention of National Security mandates emerging from the 1975 National Convention. Continued support for development of the Triad Defense System also was endorsed, as was a resolution calling the wholehearted support and approval of the President's actions in rescuing the cargo ship SS Mayaguez and its crew.
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National Adjutant William F. Hauck, National Judge Advocate Bertram G. Davis, and National Treasurer W. Francis Polen were renamed to their respective positions on recommendation of newly-elected National Commander Harry G. Wiles, with concurrence of the National Executive Committee during the post convention NEC meeting. Mrs. Dorothy J. Crimes, of Denver, Colo., was named National Historian for 1975-76 by the same procedure.
* * *
George W. Hooten, of Decatur, Ga., is the new president of the National American Legion Press Association. Other new national Presidents of internal groups conducting their annual elections at the National Convention include: Charles R. Tips, of Dallas, Texas, Society of American Legion Founders; Helmut Spangenthal, France, Foreign and Outlying Departments and Posts of The American Legion (FODPAL); Arnold J. Stockstad, West Fargo, N.D., National Association of Department Historians; and E. Roy Stone, Greenville, S.C., American Legion Past Department Commanders Club.
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John P. Condon, President, National Alliance of Businessmen, presented National Commander with a plaque in recognition of the Legion efforts in founding and continuing its cooperation with the Jobs for Veterans Program.
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Play in the 1975 World Series of American Legion Baseball, the finale of the golden anniversary year of Legion Baseball, gets underway in Rapid City, S.D. as this edition of ALNS goes to press.
INDIANAPOLIS— (ALNS)— Maurice R. Parisien, 55, of Scarborough, Me., former National Vice Commander of The American Legion (1968-69), past Department Commander of The American Legion of Maine, and that state's former representative as both an Alternate NECman and NECman, died August 25. Funeral services and burxal were Friday Aug 29. He is survived by his widow, Mary, 13 Bayberry Lane, Scarborough.
-alns- 0197 EJMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION
C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director
HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release 8-29-75
INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—The principal thrust of national security mandates adopted by the 1975 National Convention of The American Legion in Minneapolis, Minn., was on those measures aimed at: increased military strength, expansion of the "National Crime Resistance Program," and support for "adequate funding" of the Defense Civil Preparedness Agency.
Security's Aerospace Committee called for continued support of the procurement of the F-15 aircraft, development and procurement of the B-l bomber and improvement and modernization of our Minuteman missile force.
The Law and Order Subcommittee asked for opposition to legislation that would require the registration of firearms or ammunition and called for support of the "National Crime Resistance Program."
Military Affairs recommendations included: reaffirmation of opposition to general amnesty for draft evaders and military deserters, continuation of the Standby Selective Service System, and support for the development and eventual production of an advanced attack helicopter and an improved tactical transport aircraft.
The Merchant Marine Committee called for "support for a strong U.S. Merchant Marine," and urged the Convention delegates to convey to President Ford the Legion's "wholehearted support and approval" of his actions in rescuing cargo ship SS Mayaguez and its crew.
Naval Affairs recommendations were aimed at "modernization of the U.S. Navy." The committee also urged the Congress and the Administration to fully fund and cooperate in the rapid development and deployment of the Trident submarine system.
The Defense Civil Preparedness Committee called for Congressional support of adequate funding of the Defense Civil Preparedness Agency in carrying out its nuclear civil protection program.
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INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—William F. Hauck, of Indiana, was reappointed National Adjutant of The American Legion at the post convention meeting of the National Executive Committee immediately upon adjournment of the 57th National Convention in Minneapolis.
Other national officers renamed on recommendation of the newly-elected National Commander Harry G. Wiles, with the concurrence of the NEC, are: Bertram G. Davis, of New York, National Judge Advocate, and W. Francis Polen, of Indianapolis, Ind., National Treasurer.
The new National Historian, named by the same procedure, is Mrs. Dorothy J. Crimes, of Denver, Colo.
-alns- 0198 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION
C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director
HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 KSt., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release 8-29-75
INDIANAPOLIS—(AINS)—George W. Hooten of Decatur, Ga., has been elected president of the National American Legion Press Association (NALPA), succeeding Samuel Picker of Forest Hills, N.Y. The new NALPA chief was named at the organization's annual meeting during the Legion's 57th National Convention in Minneapolis.
Vice-presidents elected at the meeting are: Edward LaJoie, West Hempstead, N.Y.; Ms. Dorothy M. Dolle, Louisville, Ky.; Robert J. Bayer, Bloomington, 111.; and Austin McElfish, Waco, Tex.
Frank J. Giambra of Tonawanda, N.Y, was renamed to the post of secretary- treasurer.
Members of the Executive Board are: Ely Bar, Far Rockaway, N.Y.; Marguerite G. Hess, Morgantown, W. Va.; Paul E. Heckman, Marshalltown, Iowa; and Alvin Krank, Los Angeles, Calif.
Appointive officers named for the year are: Mrs. Mary B. Howard, Augusta, Ga., historian; Claude Smithmier, Atlanta, Ga., chaplain; Lillian Cleveland, Punta Gorda, Fla., counselor to department publications; Edward Bahert, Nakomis, Fla., sergeant- at-arms; and Samuel L. Latimer, Jr., Columbia, S.C., executive board member at large.
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INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Helmut Spangenthal of France was elected president of the Foreign and Outlying Departments and Posts of The American Legion (FODPAL) at the organization's annual meeting conducted in conjunction with the 57th Annual National Convention of The American Legion in Minneapolis.
Other new officers include: Mar G. Arradaza, Philippines, first vice president; George Vieto, Panama, second vice president; Daniel S. Campbell, France, secretary; Grandin Drake, Panama, treasurer; Hugh C. Jamieson, Canada, historian; William Feliciano, Puerto Rico, judge advocate; C. Alvin Hoffman, Mexico, chaplain; and Albert Trioani, Italy, sergeant-at-arms. Mrs. Mary B. Howard, honorary member, was renamed recording secretary. Ralph A. Westerfield, Puerto Rico, was named President Emeritus of the group.
Memorial services conducted by C. Alvin Hoffman were held for those members of the Foreign Departments who passed away since the last annual meeting.
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INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)--Milo Blanich, 58, Minnesota National Executive Committeeman of The American Legion (1974-75), died Aug. 23, in Crosby, Minn. A veteran of World War II, he served as Department Commander of Minnesota in 1970-71.
Past National Commander Daniel Foley represented the national organization at the funeral. He is survived by his wife, Ruth, of 226 1st St., S.E., Crosby, Minn., and one son and two daughters. -alns- 0199 QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION
C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director
HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 0 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release 8-29-75
INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Arnold J. Stockstad of West Fargo, North Dakota, has been elected the new president of the National Association of Department Historians of The American Legion. Mr. Stockstad was elected at the association's luncheon meeting at the Leamington Hotel during the Legion's 57th National Convention in Minneapolis.
During the luncheon, National Treasurer W. Francis Polen was honored by the association for serving as chairman of the National History Contests Judges Committee for fifteen years.
Guest speaker at the luncheon meeting was Past National Commander Daniel F. Foley of Minnesota, who spoke on the subject of the historian's role in the Bicentennial year.
Other newly elected officers of the association are: Executive vice president Dr. Harry H. Kretzler (Wash.). Vice presidents are: Geraldine C. Hinman (Conn.), Mary B. Howard (Ga.), Minnie Belle Hickman (D.C.), Edward J. Allen (Mo.), Dorothy J. Crimes (Colo.), and Secretary-Treasurer Hazel A. Carlson (Minn.).
President Stockstad also announced the following appointments: Claudia A. Triola (Fla.), chaplain; G. Greer McCallister (Ohio), judge advocate; Dorothy M. Raymond (Calif.), sergeant-at-arms; and Thomas V. Hull (Ind.), historian.
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INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—John P. Condon, president of the National Alliance of Businessmen presented National Commander James M. Wagonseller during the Legion's 57th Annual National Convention in Minneapolis with a plaque in recognition of the Legion's efforts on behalf of the Jobs for Veterans program initiated by the Legion and adopted as a federal government program then placed with the government with the alliance for further implementation.
He cited the Legion active participation in 345 Job Fairs, of involvement in research and presentation of testimony in support of veterans employment, of "hot- lines" maintained by the Legion to help veterans seeking employment, and the involvement of the several state organizations of the Legion in support of continuing NAB programs aimed at easing the problem of veteran unemployment.
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INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—E. Roy Stone, long-time National Executive Committeeman from South Carolina, Chairman of the NEC Subcommittee on Resolutions, a member of the Spirit of '76 Committee and a member of the National Finance Commission Liaison, was elected President of The American Legion Past Department Commanders Club, succeeding Past National Commander Joe L. Matthews, of Texas. The action came at the club's annual meeting conducted in conjunction with the National Convention.
-alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION
C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director
HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 0 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release 8-29-75
MINNEAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Shooting a sparkling 18-hole score of 70, Bill Von Wald, a Vietnam veteran, won the National American Legion Golf Tournament held here in conjunction with the 57th Annual National Convention. Wald, who is from Maplewood, Minn., is a member of Arcade-Phalen Post No. 577 in St. Paul.
Runnerup in the championship flight with an 18-hole round of 72, was Robert H. Walrath of Watertown, South Dakota. He is a member of Watertown Post No. 17. Shooting a 74 over 18 holes to cop third place was Lyle S. Johansen of Wayzatta, Minn. He is a member of Westphal Post No. 251 in Robbinsdale, Minn.
In the handicap flight, using the Calloway scoring system, Paul Garrison of Hershey, Pa., and a member of North Harrisburg Post No. 1001, was the winner. Second place went to Paul Spivey whose address and post affiliation were unknown as this issue went to press. Third place was taken by Alfred Schmeidel of Hopkins, Minn., and he is a member of Richfield Post 435, Richfield, Minn.
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INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Here are the 1975 Regional Champions of American Legion Baseball who, even as this edition of ALNS is being mailed, are doing battle in Rapid City, S.D., for the 1975 National Championship of American Legion baseball.
This World Series of Legion Baseball marks the conclusion of the golden anniversary of America's oldest supervised youth athletic program aside from those sponsored by schools and colleges. Participants are: Region 1, Cyril P. Mornsette Post 294, Quincy, Mass.; Region 2, Post 108, Cheverly, Md.; Region 3, Nieves Carrillo Post 113, San Juan, Puerto Rico; Region 4, Henry H. Graves Inc., Post No. 1, of Jackson, Miss.; Region 5, Leasure Blackston Post 239, Worthington, 0.; Regxon 6, Hanford Post No. 5, Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Region 7, Logan Wheeler Post No. 36, Yakima, Wash., and Region 8, Fullerton Post 142, of Fullerton, Calif.
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INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—The report on Finance as it appeared in the August 21 edition of American Legion News Service was inadvertantly left incomplete. Following is the complete report on the resolve clause of National Finance Resolution No. 1, as approved by the 1975 National Convention:
"National per capita dues for the year 1976 will be fixed in the amount of $2.50 on all dues paid on or before June 15, 1976, and remitted to the national organization by the various Departments postmarked June 30, 1976, or before, and that thereafter the said per capita dues for the year 1976 shall be $3.50.
The effective dates of the dues increase were set far in advance by the National Finance Commission in recognition of the fact that Post and Departments need long-term notice to allow time for local adjustments to meet the national change in per capita.
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