Vol. 104, No.21 Official Publication of The American Legion Department of February 2019 Chili and salsa contest raises funds for local veterans By Roy Dorantes having this salsa for over 50 years. BRAWLEY, Calif. - The Brawley This is homemade salsa.” American Legion Post 60 hosted “I’m using fresh jalapenos and a chili cook-off and salsa contest serrano chilis. I have another salsa on Saturday to raise funds for local that I have, [I use] chile de arbol and veterans’ programs. tomatillo sauce,” Romano said. Legionnaires from 5 districts in And some refused to share all of Southern California came together their recipes. with local community to show off “There’s other ingredients in it but their cooking skills and support. I can’t tell you because it’s a family Martha Romano, from Pacific secret. I could tell you but then you Palisades American Legion Post know the outcome,” Romero said 283, said, “I’m here to support the laughing. American Legion family. Every The money goes to helmets for year, they’ve been doing this for 30 heroes. years.” Tracy T-Dog Rascoe, El Centro Some shared a little of their secret American Legion Post 25, said, “It’s They said it’s a way of saying giving back and thanking them for ingredients for their chili and salsa. a program that we started just last thank you to veterans. their service,” Romano said. Edward Romero, Riverside year where all the change, every “If you enjoy the freedoms that “Love and care. Go pour and pour American Legion Post 289, said, penny counts to help our California you have every day you should give love and care right into that chili,” “This is my mom’s recipe. I’ve been veterans.” back. They gave to us, so we’re Rascoe said. Brawley American Legion Post #60 – “YOUNG GUNS”! LEFT: Pictured in no specific order: Post Save the Date: Commander-Isaac Donayre, 1st Vice February 9, 2019 Commander-Ernesto Four Chaplains Interfaith Service Mariscal, 2nd Vice St. Mary’s Church, Sanger Commander-Raymond Gonzalez, Finance March 3, 2019 Oratorical Finals Officer-Martin Islas) Clovis Veterans Memorial District Clovis, CA

March 7, 2019 DEADLINE-NEXT ISSUE OF CALIFORNIA BELOW: Department LEGIONNAIRE Vice Commander March 8-10, 2019 Area 5-Tracy Department Executive Committee (DEC) Rascoe, Department Cpl Braden Post 56, Santa Maria Commander-Larry Leonardo, and District March 16 – 17, 2019 30 Commander-Robert Area 5 Caucus Morales with Officers of Marin-Davis Memorial Bldg., Los Alamitos Brawley Post 60 March 20, 2019 Annual Legion Day at State Capitol State Capitol Basement-Eureka Room

March 22 -24, 2019 Department of CA-Legion College Class 2019-1 South Gate Post 335-South Gate

March 30, 2019 Area 6 Caucus Camarillo Post 741

May 17 – 19, 2019 American Legion Riders (ALR) Convention Plymouth, CA

June 26, 2019 Past Commanders’ Club Convention Ontario Post #112

June 27-30, 2019 Department Convention Ontario Convention Center

August 23 – 29, 2019 National American Legion Convention Indianapolis, IN –YOUNG GUNS, see page 3 FROM THE Department COMMANDER’S DESK California . HE Got married, immigrated their lives on hold, placed their lives in THE AMERICAN LEGION American Legion to California and 20 years later he took harm’s way and continued to serve long after DEPARTMENT OF CALIFORNIA Family, Happy New the test and became an American citizen. the uniform came off. What better way to 1601 7th Street Year! And his children were proud of that fact. serve, knowing that one person CAN make a Sanger, CA 93657-2801 As children we grew up in two cultures, difference but to belong to an organization of TEL: (559) 875-8387 I hope you and American and Portuguese, but we weren’t over 2 million like-minded comrades, we can FAX: (559) 272-5157 your family had a Portuguese-Americans, we were Americans do anything, and by God we are. [email protected] great Christmas with of Portuguese decent. We celebrated our WE ARE TEAM 100. family and friends father’s heritage and honored our father’s DEPARTMENT COMMANDER Larry Leonardo, Sr. and had a safe and desire to allow us to embrace the American As I pen the article, volunteers are working Commander Larry Leonardo, Sr. Happy New Year, as culture as he did. He worked hard, never to make our report forms “user friendly” [email protected] well. asked for anything that he couldn’t work whether through electronic submission or for or afford. We honored our father’s life- DEPARTMENT ADJUTANT reporting using a hard-copy of those report We are well underway for our next 100 altering decision and voluntarily served in the Paul Brown forms, the choice is yours as we update and years as a Legion Family. January 1st started US Armed Forces when two of us could have get our system ready for the eventual future [email protected] out with an unprecedented event during the applied for an Agricultural deferment. And transition to full electronic reporting. We EDITOR Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, we all continue to serve our communities to Marilyn Rideaux the American Legion float commemorating this day. I continue to serve as a member of have the talent to accomplish these tasks when we work together. (310) 293-1246 M the American Legion 100th year and the the American Legion and I’m damn proud of beginning of our second 100 years of service that fact. (310) 819-8815 H We have moved forward with our [email protected] to our Veterans, God and Country. What an impressive way to bring in the new year, with What does this have to do with the communications and we strive to make it Advertising/Publishing renewed purpose, renewed enthusiasm, and American Legion? It has to do with YOU, better and more informative and useful to MID-VALLEY PUBLISHING renewed energy. our greatest asset. Department Adjutant, our members. We continue to work hard (559) 638-2244 Paul Brown, recently wrote, “What is your to bolster our membership at the Post level 1130 G Street, Reedley, CA 93654 We are TEAM 100. Our members in the WHY”. Each of us has a unique story of but also recruit new members to grow our Debra Leak, Advertising Sales American Legion Family are our greatest our WHY, but the common thread is, we organization that enables us to project a [email protected] asset. Our programs reflect ideals set forth joined the US Armed Forces for individual powerful effort for Veterans causes on by our founding Legion fathers in 1919 and reasons, yet we pledged an oath to protect Capitol Hill and we mentor our newer Duby Trevino, Graphic Artist continues today on the eve of our second the Constitution from ALL enemies, members on our programs, our mission [email protected] hundred years, due to our greatest asset, foreign and domestic. We made it through and our causes. Your WHY and my Why is YOU. I’m proud of each and every one of Boot Camp and we all served honorably. what makes the American Legion the most you who put on a uniform, left family behind Continuing service is the common glue that prestigious Veterans Service Organization to serve our country and knowing you and binds us together to become members of on earth. Without our number one asset, we your family continue to serve this country. the greatest Veterans Service Organization accomplish nothing. Be proud, be an active on earth, to serve our communities, our American Legion member. Moving ahead, I’m a private person, deep down, yet veterans and their families. A truly noble evolving and being progressive will be part I want you to know who I am and my and honorable endeavor. My wish is to be of our collective DNA. “WHY”. My brothers and sister are first part of an organization that truly believes in PUBLICATION POLICY generation American born citizens of America, its Veterans, their families and their California Legionnaire is the official publication Over 100 years of Service to Community, the Leonardo clan. Three of my brothers Communities. That is the American Legion, State and Nation. of The American Legion Department of including myself joined the Navy at a time and I am the American Legion. Just like California. California Legionnaire (PP 167) is when the military service was looked down all of you, my comrades, my brothers and published 6 times a year in February, April, June By the Numbers: 100 years…Four upon. My father immigrated to America sisters. I didn’t join the American Legion to August, October, and December by Mid Valley Pillars…One Team after 11 months struggling and waiting to advance my career, yet the American Legion Publishing Inc., 740 N St., Sanger CA 93657- immigrate to American, legally. He left his helped me be a better citizen, I didn’t join 3114. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Thank you, California Legionnaire, 1601 7th Street, Sanger, family and friends behind because he knew the American Legion to monetarily enhance CA 93657-2801. he could have a better life in America. At myself, I didn’t join the American Legion Larry Leonardo, NOTICE: the US Airbase in the Azores Islands, he for the accolades, I joined to help my fellow Department Commander met American GI’s during the closing years veterans brothers and sisters by joining an Dept. of California • Submissions to the California Legionnaire must be submitted by the due date pub- of WWII and heard their stories about the organization where its members once placed The American Legion lished in the California Legionnaire and on the Department website www.calegion.org Department Adjutant • Photos should be no less than 580KB. If emailing from your smart phone, send at California Adjutant. This simplified design clearly credit for the member per capita the the highest resolution. Do not embed pho- tos into your Word.doc nor an email. Send Legionnaires- indicates a link between California and day we receive it rather than up to two photos as separate images, use a numbering The American Legion. It is available weeks later. This should cut back on system to match photos with their appropri- I’m excited for download on our website at: https:// the amount of members getting renewal ate photo caption which should be typed in a and ready to be www.calegion.org/graphic_resources/ notices after they have paid. It should Word.doc. Images that are pulled off of web of service to the graphics/4.california.html be noted, however, when the department sites will not reproduce well, if at all. PDFs American Legion submits online (same as when a posts must be saved as high resolution from their Department of We have two new membership submits online) it can take up to a week original document. Email articles to: aide_ California and functions which we can take care of at for the individual member’s record in [email protected] with the words Califor- Paul Brown the veterans of the department level. nia Legionnaire in the subject line of your the database to reflect their dues being email so that it will not be overlooked. our state. It is 1) Member transfers from paid. important in the role of Department any post in CA to another can be • All submissions become the property of The Adjutant to administratively create a accomplished by department staff American Legion Department of California. We are currently working out the All submitted material is subject to edit, re- culture in which all can succeed in their (ex. A member transfer from Post 1000 kinks in our online report forms and will work and omission. We are not responsible roles. I am relying on a great team, both into your post). These used to take up be ready to roll those out by March. Be for lost items or misplaced material. in and beyond the office, to develop to eight weeks to show up on your post prepared for cleaner appearing forms, • Please send “Change of Address” and the support we need to better serve the roster when we had to mail them to the ability to print/mail the form as well “Deceased Notifications” to: organization. National HQ and wait on their timeline. as fill it out and submit online, and a [email protected] or mail to: We are Now they are transferred and entered confirmation email being sent to your The American Legion, Department of distributing a new on your roster with a day of Department email when you submit online (with a California, department logo HQ receiving it. copy for your records). For those few 1601 7th Street (inserted in this 2) Department HQ is processing posts still without the experience or Sanger, CA 93657-2801 article) which has membership cards online now rather equipment to access these online forms, Do not direct them to the Editor of the been approved than mailing them to National HQ California Legionnaire. by the National once a week. This means CA is getting –ADJUTANT, see page 3

2 | Febuary 2019 | CALIFORNIA LEGIONNAIRE ON THE WEB AT WWW.CALEGION.ORG Membership Director

Hello Team just want to meet our goals but exceed I didn’t talk about the renewal rate in members. Mentoring is used in business California, them. the department. Did you know that all the time and that’s because it works Well we’re half approximately 20% of members do to keep valuable employees. way through the That being said, the tools we have are not renew every year? Therefore; we membership year getting better all the time, in addition must emphasize Retention, Retention, We’ve got six revitalizations and it’s time to to being able to send transmittals Retention and not just for new members, scheduled for January alone, these assess where we electronically through mylegion.org, we but our loyal post members that renew events will get our momentum going are. We hit the can now process revitalization transfers every year now, but could be lost next and it’s up to you to keep it going. ground running and post 1000 transfers, at department. year. Communicate with your members Attend the revitalizations in your area Harry Woods in September and In other words, they don’t need to go to both old and new and be sure to listen and make things happen. Once your October but fell short in November by National. The transfers can be sent by to their response. The easiest way to do revitalization is well underway, start only 44 members. We missed the target snail mail or they can be scanned and this is simply ask questions and listen. planning to get some of the 2014-16 date by approximately 850 members sent to our membership coordinator, expired members and make some in December, and as I am writing this Nicole at [email protected]. Be First, ask about the family situation, money! We’ve got the tools so all we article, we are approximately 716 sure to use the subject line to let Nicole even if you know someone, things can need is you! Keep on working when the members short of 80 % target date due know what transfers you’re sending. change quickly. Second, ask what they lights go out and there’s no one around. on the January 17th. We still have a An example would be District 35 do for a living, listen carefully here, Willingness to keep working when the lot of work to do, but I believe we can revitalization transfers or Post 123 post they may not really like their job and lights are out, is a characteristic of both exceed our membership goals. How 1000 transfers. The major advantage to just do it to make a living. Third, ask a leader and a winner. We all have a is that possible you ask? It’s possible this is that, we’ll be able to process them them what they really like to do, do they winner inside us, so let your winner if we do a 90-day membership blitz. much quicker than National, and we’ll have a hobby that really get fired up shine Team California. Commit to our That means that for the next 90 days we be able to see the fruits of our labor about? Fourth, ask what did they did in common goal to exceed our membership recruit, retain and renew members like sooner. I’ve been told by the adjutant service and see if that was their passion? goals for 2018-19. our very lives depended on it, because that every effort will be made to get Fifth, ask them why they joined or our legion life does. If the American all transmittals in as soon as possible. are considering joining the American That’s its Team California Legion Department of California is to If you’re trying to make a target date Legion. survive another 100 years, the time is please get the transmittals into Sanger Believe and Achieve - Doubt and go now to get to work on solidifying the two days before. Finally consider asking someone Without foundations of our ranks. It is also in the post with similar interest and important to remember that we don’t I would be remiss in my duties if or background to mentor your new Keep looking for the Gold.

Department VICE COMMANDER — AREA 2

Greetings, Area (VTC). Commander Reistad was so the Commander’s time in Area 2. I I belong to a group called the Knights 2 and Department impressed he is planning on providing want to thank everyone who showed of the Rose – Order of St. Michael the of California. This assistance from the American Legion up to visit with Commander Reistad. I Archangel. I represent the group as the will be a brief to promote what the VTC is doing. also want to thank all the people who veteran outreach person. Our group article due to the Commander Reistad also saw the new worked so hard to provide the food and pending deadline VA Clinic and the California Central beverages that were served. Last, but consists of military and law enforcement for sending it Coast Veterans Cemetery. The next day, absolutely not least, I want to extend an personnel. On December 6-7, 2018, forward. As I write we visited Commander Leonardo’s home enormous “THANK YOU” to all of the we held an Active Shooter – School this, National post, Mission City Post 564. The Mayor American Legion Riders who escorted Safety Symposium in Salinas, CA. James V. Scariot, Commander of Santa Clara was on hand to provide the Commander throughout his visit We were able to provide two days of Sr., MA Brett Reistad Commander Reistad with a proclamation through California. The conditions they very important training for the over is currently from the City of Santa Clara for all the performed under in District 28 were in Southern American Legion does for and in the city. horrendous, yet they persevered. Bravo 300 attendees. Guest speakers included California. I joined him with his to Mick and his riders. victims from the shooting at Logan entourage on Sunday, January 6, 2019 We next had a Meet & Greet at High School in Ohio, first responders to at Mission San Juan Bautista. We then Redwood City Post 105. Lunch followed. I was able to attend the annual District other active shooter calls within CA, and went to the Meet & Greet at Prunedale From there, our journey took us to the 28 Christmas visit to Palo Alto at the investigators who provided intelligence Post 593. We were enduring one of Veterans Memorial Building in San VA Hospital. I was able to deliver 63 of based upon their investigations. To the our rare severe weather storms, which Francisco. Commander Reistad is an the Hero Bears that were sponsored by limited outside activities. We had a avid connoisseur of history, so he really various Auxiliary units and individuals. best of my knowledge, this was the first terrific presentation at the Monterey enjoyed the tour. We later had dinner They were very well received. time this type of training was provided in County Veterans Transition Center at the New Asia Restaurant to finish our state.

–ADJUTANT, from page 2 –YOUNG GUNS, from page 1 we will mail physical copies of these forms to your post upon request.

We encourage every post to process their membership and reporting online and ask you to reach out to your district leadership for assistance in getting your post over this threshold to get every post in California functioning at a level of expected by our upcoming generations of military veteran leaders. Remember, if we want more members to volunteer and help us in our mission, our operations need to make sense to them.

Keeping California Unique & United, Kitchen Crew in no specific order because the Editor could not figure it out: Finance Officer-Martin Islas, 2nd Vice Paul M. Brown Commander-Raymond Gonzalez, Post Commander-Isaac Donayre, 1st Vice Commander-Ernesto Mariscal, Marilyn Department Adjutant Gonzales (Volunteer), Mary Ann Gonzales (Volunteer), Ernie Guzman Jr. (Volunteer)

ON THE WEB AT WWW.CALEGION.ORG CALIFORNIA LEGIONNAIRE | Febuary 2019 | 3 The American Legion, American Legion Post 177 Visits Still Relevant West LA VAMC National Commander, Brett free of charge and regardless of Reistad, offered an opinion in their Legion membership status. response to an article (see link below) which appeared in the New We sponsor job fairs for veterans York Times on January 5. I was and welcome into our ranks any unable to obtain permission from current active-duty, reservist or the Times to reprint the Guard member or honorably article so I’ve included the link if discharged wartime veterans of you would care to read it. previous generations regardless of whether they served in the United The American Legion, Still States or overseas. Relevant: The group’s national commander offers perspective on a There are many important issues news article. facing veterans today. From the Jan. 18, 2019 enacting of the V.A. Mission Act, Marilyn Rideaux, CA which consolidates community Legionnaire Editor medical care programs into a Front row (l-r) -- Eddie Wong, VA employee, VA employee, and Jim Plowden Back row (l-r) Frank Romleski, Bob Chebi, VA employee, Post 177 Commander- single, streamlined service, to Ron Fink, Mitch Fink and Frank Frasier To the Editor: obtaining benefits provided by the “Forever” G.I. Bill, which removes By Bob Chebi, Post 177 (District 23) The wreath was lovingly made Re “Upstart Veterans’ Groups the deadlines that veterans had by Linda Glaza, widow of Don Elbow Their Way In” (news article, to use their G.I. Bill educational American Legion Venice Post Glaza of Post 177. Linda has Jan. 5): benefits, today’s veterans can #177 visited patients in the ICU at been making these wreaths which be confident that the American West VA Hospital to contains 1000 pieces of candy for Yes, we are old. In March, the Legion will continue to be on their bring some cheer and present a large ten years now. She starts the wreath American Legion will have its side, fighting for their interests in wreath made of individual candies at Thanksgiving in order to have 100th birthday. the halls of Congress and at V.A. on December 24, 2018. it completed in time for the Yule facilities around the country. Holiday! And just as our founders and previous generations of This is why we exist. Legionnaires have tirelessly served their communities and veterans Brett P. Reistad Legislative Advocate since 1919, today’s American Indianapolis By Seth Reeb the State Capitol event will be on Legion is as relevant as ever. The State Legislature has March 20. Please see the sign-up Veterans’ Groups Compete With Each form in this newsletter and send it We have thousands of certified Other, and Struggle With the V.A. convened for the 2019-20 Legislative Session. Legislation in if you are attending. Everyone service officers in communities https://www.nytimes. is being drafted and introduced who is attending needs to send in across the country who will assist com/2019/01/04/us/politics/ during January and February. a form so that we can make sure veterans with claims and benefits, veterans-service-organizations.html The members of the Senate and there is enough food and seats. The Assembly Committees on Veterans American Legion always has one of Affairs have been named and that the best turnouts at the Capitol and information is included below. this year’s event will surely continue that tradition. CalVet Secretary Senate Committee on Veterans Newly elected Governor Gavin Affairs Newsom has been selecting his administration. The American Bob Archuleta (D-Pico Rivera)- Legion-Department of California Chair, Army veteran supports the reappointment of Dr. Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield)-Vice Vito Imbasciani as Secretary of the Chair, Army veteran Department of Veterans Affairs. The Melissa Hurtado (D-Sanger) Legion, together with all the major Jim Nielsen (R-Gerber) veterans service organizations in the Richard Roth (D-Riverside), Air state has encouraged the governor to Force veteran retain Secretary Imbasciani so that Tom Umberg (D-Santa Ana), Army he may continue the exemplary work veteran he has been doing for California’s Scott Wilk (R-Santa Clarita) veterans. Assembly Committee on Legislation Veterans Affairs We will be sending out details Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks)- regarding veterans’ legislation as it Chair develops. Some of the issues being Randy Voepel (R-Santee)-Vice currently worked on are National Chair, Navy veteran Guard and Reserves eligibility Tasha Boerner Horvath for the veteran designation on the (D-Encinitas) driver’s license, technical changes Bill Brough (R-Dana Point), Army to the disabled veterans license veteran plate program, veterans’ treatment Tom Daly (D-Anaheim) courts, veterans hall property tax Jim Frazier (D-Oakley) exemption, and increased state (D-) funding for County Veterans Service Devon Mathis (R-Visalia), Army Officers. veteran Al Muratsuchi (D-Torrance) Day at the State Capitol event- Cottie Petrie-Norris (D-Laguna March 20 Beach) The Department’s 2019 Day at Rudy Salas (D-Bakersfield)

4 | Febuary 2019 | CALIFORNIA LEGIONNAIRE ON THE WEB AT WWW.CALEGION.ORG “A VETERAN IS A VETERAN IS A VETERAN… OR IS SHE…” Written by: Mark L. Rice, miles closer to this goal, there is still replay. The Legionnaire would go No job or veteran is insignificant A Legionnaire from Fair Oaks Post 383, a long journey ahead of us in getting on to explain about the American when it comes to completing the CA… there in many ways. Legion and all of what it had done mission of defending the freedoms (Photo research by Marilyn Rideaux) and has to offer veterans. Inevitably we Americans enjoy each day. he would turn to the spouse a nd Regardless of race, color, creed, say, “And we also have an excellent or sex, it takes us all to get the job Auxiliary for the veteran’s spouse”, done. never stopping to think and she In 2017, the American Legion as too just might be a veteran. I also a whole came to realize that women hear from time to time less than do belong. This happened when supportive comments and actions Denise Rohan was elected and concerning women veterans and installed as the first female National their place in the American Legion. Commander of the American I sometimes sense that many feel Legion. I was at the convention in women have not yet earned a Reno, Nevada when she stepped place of acceptance in our great up to serve as our leader. It was a organization. The question bears history making day to remember. asking where do women belong in the heritage of being an American Today we are blessed to have Veteran and a fully entitled and women serving in many roles respected member of the American traditionally reserved for men. There Legion. are women pilots, fire fighters, generals, and others in a multitude of WWI US Navy Yeomanettes One doesn’t have to search deep career fields and ranks. Some serve or far to discover what the women in combat roles and many are damn of this country have offered as good at it!!! When Israel became This year the American Legion military members and even less a nation unto itself, it realized that is celebrating 100 years of service WW II came, and the resources to find what they are contributing their resources for manpower were to veterans. During WW I, men of men were severely tapped for today in defense of our core values limited and that it would take both fought on the front lines while most combat operations in order to secure and freedoms. For a very long time men and women working hard women were either clerks or nurses. victory on opposite sides of the now, women have always had to together sacrificing to keep their Women were barred from serving world. Many women stepped up sacrifice just as much, work even nation alive through many violent in any active combat roles. At the to take on jobs previously reserved harder, and go even further only times. Their very survival depended conclusion of the war it became for men to get the job done. They to be held back or treated with on it and they succeeded in grand clear that there was a need for a worked the factories and drove the disrespect by a lot of their male style. As a result, Israel stands as a veterans’ service organization to trucks. Women were even trained counterparts. Even today in a world sovereign nation where all veterans work to meet the needs of returning as pilots to help ferry military that is changing more and more to are treated with respect. We could veterans to the home front. It was aircraft to the places where they embrace equality through diversity, stand to learn a lot from this. the veterans themselves who came were needed most. Several women they still are often treated as second to realize that no one could do more lost their lives doing this time but class veterans. It’s time for this to Another important thing to or understand more than they could. just the same they eagerly stepped stop!!! Well guess what… they took remember is that when a veteran The American Legion was born by up and served. Following the war, the same oath that all of us did to serves their family serves with them charter of the US Congress. The the men returned to work and the basic principle was developed under women returned to their given roles the understanding that a veteran is a of the day. As time went by, both the veteran is a veteran. There would be needs of the military and the value

Photo Credit-WOMENVETRANSDAY-DOT-COM

protect and defend the constitution as well. This is also true for women of the United State against… They veterans. The support of parents, signed up and issued the same husbands, wives, and children are blank check due and payable to the a critical part of a soldier, sailor, people of the United States for any airman, and marine’s ability to serve. amount up to and including their The service member often has to life just as many male veterans have sacrifice a lot of family activities in committed to doing. For some, the order to complete the mission. No check was cashed in and the price other career field demands more was paid in full (including women military service. When the veterans WASPs, photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons service members). This is the chief of came together to reason we must honor and respect form the American Legion, they no rank among them and all would these veterans as equals. If we understood the principle that a be treated equally based on need and of women as veterans changed. don’t… then we violate the very veteran is a veteran, is a veteran… not race, color, creed of sex. And ideals we served to defend. We have no exceptions!!! So is she really a so, it would seem. The country was I have wondered how many times to always remember that it takes the veteran…. You can bet your boots in the challenging place of trying a Legion member would talk with collaborative efforts of all veterans she is and as such, stands proudly to find the soul if its noble ideal of a couple asking the man is he was a to empower our armed forces to with us all in the American Legion equality and even today, though veteran. “Why yes I am” he would do the job that is before them. as equals.

ON THE WEB AT WWW.CALEGION.ORG CALIFORNIA LEGIONNAIRE | Febuary 2019 | 5 ByA Matt salute Grills to minorities’ service in thelines, Great but drowned during War his return. DEC 05, 2018 Cantu was honored posthumously, https://www.legion.org/honor/244123/ his Hispanic heritage unknown until salute-minorities-service-great-war 1989.

Blacks and Latinos proudly served Romo praised the diversity of their country in uniform overseas today’s armed forces, pointing out during the Great War, even as they that roughly 1 percent of Americans faced discrimination at home, and are serving in uniform. “Our military a long-overdue records review today is a true representation of may reveal that some were unfairly our population and the melting pot denied the nation’s highest military we are,” he said. “No matter one’s decoration. ethnic group, religion or gender, their service provides the freedom At a Nov. 8 event honoring that everyone in this great country minorities’ contributions to the enjoys daily without notice.” U.S. war effort, retired Army Col. Gerald York – special adviser to the The Pershing Park event U.S. World War One Centennial Student musicians of the 369th Experience attend “The Heroic Legacy: African concluded with a concert by the Commission and grandson of Sgt. Americans and Latinos of WWI,” a commemorative program hosted by the U.S. 369th Experience, a re-creation Alvin York, recipient of the Medal World War One Centennial Commission at Pershing Park in Washington, D.C., on Nov. 8. The 369th Experience is a re-creation of Lt. James Reese Europe’s of the legendary 369th Infantry of Honor – praised the Valor Medals famous 369th Infantry “Hellfighters” Band, which introduced French audiences “Hellfighters” Band that introduced Review Task Force, which is to jazz, ragtime and blues. France to ragtime, jazz and blues. conducting the research necessary to identify and correct injustices. World War I. not yet treat them equally under the Bobby Sanabria, a drummer, law, said Eleanor Holmes Norton, percussionist and leader of his “People say, ‘Why are you Since then, isolated efforts have U.S. representative for the District of Multiverse Big Band, said every jazz looking back, that’s 100 years ago,’” resulted in the posthumous awarding Columbia. musician today, himself included, York told an audience gathered at of Medals of Honor to only two owes a debt of gratitude to the 369th Pershing Park in Washington, D.C., more minority servicemembers “Once Woodrow Wilson declared Infantry Band, led by Lt. James site of the future National World War from that period, in 2015: Sgt. that we had entered the war to make Reese Europe. “They spread what I Memorial. “If we made mistakes, William Shemin, a Jewish-American the world safe for democracy, the we call jazz today, which really we need to rectify those mistakes. soldier from the 47th Regiment, 4th black press took hold of this slogan, represents the best of who we are We’re not a perfect nation, but we Infantry Division, and Sgt. Henry and it inspired African-Americans to as Americans,” Sanabria said. “Jazz try.” Johnson, an African-American join the effort,” Norton said. “Most represents only one thing, freedom, York noted that his grandfather soldier from the 369th Regiment. saw going to war as an opportunity and that’s something to be proud of.” was initially awarded a Last summer, the World War One to show their patriotism and equal Distinguished Service Cross for his Centennial Commission established citizenship.” In fact, black veterans Sanabria, who is of Puerto Rican bravery in the Argonne on Oct. 8, a partnership with faculty at New of World War I laid the groundwork descent, spoke of Puerto Ricans’ 1918. Further investigation resulted York University and Missouri’s Park for the civil rights movement, she contributions to the 369th’s role as in an upgrade to the . University to see if there are others added. a musical and cultural ambassador “Unfortunately, a lot of African- like Stowers, Shemin and Johnson; to Europe. One of the most famous Americans and a lot of Latinos who a systematic effort is underway to Also delivering remarks was Sgt. Rafael Hernandez Marin, did heroic things on the battlefield determine if minorities who received was Lawrence Romo, national a trombonist who played with the got lesser awards because of their the Distinguished Service Cross commander of American GI band overseas and later became part race, because of their color,” York and foreign valor awards were Forum, a congressionally chartered of the Harlem jazz scene. said. downgraded due to racial or ethnic Hispanic veterans and civil rights bias. organization, and former director of Emceeing the show were James The 1918 armistice ended the Selective Service System. Reese Europe III, grandson of the fighting between the Allies and The work will take years and original 369th Infantry’s bandleader, Germany, but the work of the be difficult due to the passage of Romo told the stories of two and Noble Sissle Jr., son of the American Expeditionary Forces is time and loss of Army personnel highly decorated Latinos who 369th’s lead vocalist. Together, still not complete, said retired Maj. records in a 1973 fire, Leins said. fought in World War I: Army they spoke briefly of the band’s Gen. Christopher Leins, chairman Nevertheless, the task force is Pvt. Marcelino Serna, a Mexican history and the songs it helped of the Valor Medals Review Task pressing Congress to officially immigrant and the first Hispanic to make famous, including “Memphis Force. authorize the records review for receive the Distinguished Service Blues,” “Tiger Rag,” “Darktown 2019, coinciding with the 100th Cross, and Army Pvt. David Strutters’ Ball” and “Ja-Da.” One significant post-war task was anniversary of the return of Barkeley Cantu, the first Spanish- to make sure that the brave acts of American forces from Europe. American to receive the Medal of The original 369th Infantry Band U.S. soldiers were appropriately Honor. had 65 African-American and honored, leading to the initial “The gravity of this award Puerto Rican members. The younger awarding of 118 Medals of Honor. means its rarity must be jealously On Sept. 28, 1918, during a Europe and Sissle assembled Yet seven decades passed before a safeguarded,” Leins said. “(The battle in the Meuse-Argonne, Serna a similar group for the 369th black servicemember, Cpl. Freddie Medal of Honor) can never be wounded a German sniper and Experience over a couple of years, Stowers of the 371st Infantry allowed to be diluted in the name followed him to a trench, throwing recruiting and auditioning dozens of Regiment, was recognized for of making a political point.” in three grenades. Altogether, he student musicians from historically his heroism. Reasons included an Yet the nation has an obligation killed 26 German soldiers and took black colleges and universities inconsistent understanding and to ensure that every American 24 prisoners, and became Texas’ (HBCU). Their first time playing application of standards, unclear who demonstrates gallantry and most decorated World War I soldier. together was a rehearsal for their writing, misplaced paperwork and, intrepidity in action “receives In 1924, Serna became a U.S. first performance, on the Intrepid unfortunately, prejudice, Leins said. due recognition regardless of the citizen, and upon his death in 1992, Air, Sea & Space Museum last In 1991, Stowers became the first circumstances incurred or the color was buried with full military honors Memorial Day weekend. African-American soldier from of his skin. Only then can we truly at Fort Bliss National Cemetery in World War I to receive the Medal say that no veteran, no hero, has El Paso. “I’ve been able to listen to some of of Honor, opening the door to been left behind.” those original 1919 recordings that retroactive award recommendations David Barkeley Cantu is one of Jim Europe and my dad went into for minorities who served in World Construction of a national three Texans awarded the Medal of the studio and recorded,” Sissle said. War II, the Korean War and other memorial is another way to honor Honor during World War I. He swam “Now I’m hearing them in stereo, conflicts. Yet there was little interest all who served, particularly those the icy Meuse river in France to updated just a little but played in expanding reviews to include who fought for a country that did gather information behind German –SALUTE TO MINORITIES’, see page 14 6 | Febuary 2019 | CALIFORNIA LEGIONNAIRE ON THE WEB AT WWW.CALEGION.ORG Department VICE COMMANDER — AREA 3

Greetings. With Area meeting at Amador Post 108 in half the year done the 11th District, April 20, 2019, Area we still have much 3 meeting at Ceres Post 491 in District to do. Thanks to all our Districts in 12. Big things on the horizon, Oratorical keeping our Area Contest, Boys State submissions, Four in 2nd place. We Chaplains, Lobby Trip to Sacramento, now have three Centennial celebrations, Membership Districts in the Revitalization (Districts 11,12, 14, 15 & Roy Santiago Top 5 (D-12 #2, D-15 #4, D-11 #5). 27) at HQ’s March 15-16, and nominations Congratulations! for Post/ District officers. Keep up the Dates to remember, February 2, 2019, visitations and Go Team 100!!!! National Commander’s Visit to Bakersfield Post 26 Frank Vail, Adjutant- Bakersfield Post 26 The visit to Post 26 by the American Legion National Commander, Brett Reistad, on January 5th was a big success. In spite of weather issues on the Grapevine and a slowdown due to an accident on I-5, the National Commander and his entourage were able to arrive not too much later than planned. After his arrival, a bit of meeting- and-greeting, the head table was seated. Master of Ceremonies, Mark Sandall, had the National Chief of Chaplains, Michael Lynch, perform the invocation. The National Anthem was and updated the audience on Legion performed by the violinist Issac activities and his goals for the year. Kim, a Post 26 American Legion The Master of Ceremonies then Boys State Representative. Tony thanked Michael Lynch - National Strass, Commander, Post 221, Chief of Chaplains, Karen Goh conducted the POW/MIA Table – Bakersfield City Mayor, Mike Ceremony. Hale – Captain Bakersfield Police The Master of Ceremonies Department, Cody Sedano – on introduced: Eric Kurtz - Department behalf of U.S Representative Cox, of California Sargent-at-Arms, and the American Legion Riders Dee Ann Graham - 15th District escorting the Commander on his Auxiliary President, David Graham – Post 26 Commander, Paul travels for attending. Brown – Department of California Lunch was served and the open- Adjutant, Kenneth Knight – Aide faced prime rib sandwiches were to the National Commander, very well received. After lunch the and Larry Van Kuran – National Commander was presented with a Executive Committeeman. The U.S. Army leather jacket and his National Executive Committeeman Aide was presented with a U.S. introduced Larry Leonardo Navy leather jacket by the Post – Department of California Commander from the members of Commander who, after a few Post 26. comments, introduced the American After more visiting and pictures Legion National Commander Brett the National Commander and his Reistad. The National Commander entourage continued on their way up thanked the attendees and the Post the Valley. Deadline for the next issue of the California Legionnaire is March 7, 2019

ON THE WEB AT WWW.CALEGION.ORG CALIFORNIA LEGIONNAIRE | Febuary 2019 | 7 AMERICAN LEGION The American Legion 2019 Rose Parade float celebrates 100th anniversary INDIANAPOLIS (January of The American Legion — highlight the many American DEPARTMENT OF CALIFORNIA 2, 2019) – The American Youth, Americanism, National Legion programs and services Legion kicked off 2019 by Security and Veterans. On the that impact communities across celebrating the organization’s base of the float was a floral America.” 100th anniversary in the Rose celebration of the American American Legion, Department Of California Parade®. The American Legion flag led by a field of red is the nation’s largest wartime poppies, which symbolize the Riders on the float included Announces 2019 California Legislators Of The Year veterans service organization service and sacrifice of the and the float theme highlighted servicemembers who paid the four Medal of Honor recipients, SENATE PRO TEM TONI ATKINS AND ASSEMBLYMAN RUDY SALAS a century of advocating for ultimate price while protecting the national commanders of veterans, servicemembers our nation’s freedoms. The American Legion, The The American Legion, Department of California (Department) has named Senate Pro Tem Toni Atkins and their families while American Legion Auxiliary and (D-San Diego) and Assemblyman Rudy Salas (D-Bakersfield) as recipients of their 2018 Leo P. Burke providing impactful programs Legislator of the Year award. The Department’s Leo P. Burke Legislator of the Year award is bestowed Sons of the American Legion that have shaped the fabric of “It was such a pleasure to to legislators who have gone the extra mile to support California’s veterans, military members, and their and a representative from each communities across America. participate in the 2019 Rose families. The Legislature oversees and deliberates on a wide array of issues important to California Parade and share our centennial of the five branches of the U.S. Legionnaires such as: California Department of Veterans Affairs, veterans’ memorials, veterans homes, message of ‘Still Serving armed forces. The float also veterans cemeteries, veterans outreach, assistance with claims filing, the National Guard, veterans in the Completely covered with America’,’’ said Brett Reistad, criminal justice system, non-profit organization regulations, veterans license plates, base realignment, etc. featured participants from many flowers or other natural national commander of The signature programs of The materials, the float featured American Legion. “The Rose Senator Atkins and Assemblyman Salas were chosen for their leadership, support, and dedication to American Legion, including a 19-foot tall American bald Parade was an excellent the veterans and service members of California. They will be presented their awards at the Department’s Michael Fox of Sanger, CA Annual Day at the Capitol event on March 20, 2019. eagle with a 40-foot wing opportunity to showcase the span outstretched over four legacy and vision of The who represented the Sons of the The American Legion float celebrates the 100th Anniversary of the nation’s largest veterans service organization Senate President pro Tempore Toni Atkins (D-San Diego) pillars representing the mission American Legion and to American Legion. in the 2019 Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, CA.

Senator Atkins was elected to the State Assembly in 2010 to represent San Diego. In 2012, she was the majority leader of the California Assembly, and in January 2014 she was chosen to be Speaker of the Assembly. In 2016, she was elected to represent California’s 39th State Senate District. In 2018, Atkins became the Senate President Pro Tempore.

San Diego is home to a large veterans and military population. Senator Atkins’ father was a WWII veteran and her brother served in Vietnam and she is focused on veteran and military issues.

Senator Atkins supported SB 3 (Beall) which became Proposition 1 on the 2018 ballot, the Housing Programs and Veterans’ Loans Bond, which was passed by the voters. Affordable housing for veterans as well as veterans’ homelessness have been two of her legislative priorities since first arriving in the Legislature.

She has authored bills regarding Veterans Home admissions, waiver of renewal fees for professional licenses for deployed servicemembers, extension of sales and use tax exemption for veterans’ thrift stores, and a resolution encouraging California’s courts to establish veterans treatment courts.

The Annual Assembly Veterans Recognition Luncheon was strongly supported during her tenure as Assembly Speaker. Senator Atkins has continued to be a steadfast supporter of this important event, which raises the visibility of veterans and veteran’s issues within the Legislature and with the public. Assemblyman Rudy Salas (D-Bakersfield) On Friday, January 4, 2019, Chinatown Post 628 (District 17) honored National Commander, Brett Reistad, during a luncheon held at the First elected in 2012, Assemblymember Rudy Salas represents the 32nd famous Golden Dragon Restaurant in Downtown Los Angeles. Assembly District, which is comprised of a part of the city of Bakersfield, the cities of Arvin, Avenal, Corcoran, Delano, Hanford, Lemoore, McFarland, Shafter, and Wasco.

Assemblyman Salas has been serving on the Assembly Veterans Affairs Committee from the time he was first elected. He has been active member of this committee over the past 6 years.

During his first legislative session Assemblyman Salas authored, passed, and received the Governor’s signature on AB 556 (2013) Military and Veterans Fair Employment and Housing Act: Prohibiting employment discrimination against all active duty military and veterans of the Armed Services.

In 2018, Salas authored AB 2801: Veterans and law enforcement memorial crimes. AB 2801 clarifies that veterans’ memorials are afforded specific protection against vandalism under the California Penal Code and Military and Veterans Code. According to Assemblymember Salad, “Veterans sacrifice every single day for our country and put their lives on the line to defend us. Our laws should be clear that anyone found guilty of vandalizing veterans’ memorials will be held accountable under the law, especially in light of the recent vandalism against the Kern Veterans Memorial. I thank the governor for signing this bill that will help preserve and protect memorials that honor those who have fought and died for our country.” Deadline for the next issue of the National Commander, Brett Reistad, visited The ABOUT THE AMERICAN LEGION Battleship Iowa, home of Post 61 (19th District) in The American Legion, founded in 1919, is an organization of veterans of the United States Armed Forces California Legionnaire is San Pedro while touring Los who served in wartime. The American Legion is active in supporting the interests of veterans and lobbying Angeles on January 4, 2019. on their behalf. Members are kept informed on legislation at the federal and state levels which impacts veterans. The American Legion, Department of California has over 79,000 members and represents the March 7, 2019 interests of California’s 1.7 million veterans and their families. 8 | Febuary 2019 | CALIFORNIA LEGIONNAIRE ON THE WEB AT WWW.CALEGION.ORG ON THE WEB AT WWW.CALEGION.ORG CALIFORNIA LEGIONNAIRE | Febuary 2019 | 9 Tom Rice By Matthew Shillingburg, the parachute jumping school at Fort heavy anti-aircraft fire, the pilot April 2015, the French government Post Commander Benning in 1943. After eighteen maneuvered to escape the fire and, honored Rice and thirteen other San Dieguito American Legion Post 416 months of training, he became a flying too fast and too low to jump, veterans by appointing them Knights member of the 501st Regiment, he hung up Rice in the door of the of the Legion of Honor for their newly formed infantry, 101st plane. Rice finally landed near Utah heroic service in the liberation of Airborne Division. While serving in Beach, 4km north of Carentan, near France during the Second World the 101st Airborne Division, Rice heavily armed Germans and miles War. This prize is the highest honor led a squadron of twelve soldiers from the planned drop zone. He that France grants to its citizens and and served as a platoon sergeant for joined about fifty other Americans, foreigners. six months. and they fought in Normandy for more than a month, sheltering Rice’s quote for Bronze Star Metal In the early hours of D-Day, June in hunting holes, having little reads in part: 6, 1944, Staff Sergeant Thomas equipment and capturing hundreds Rice, 22, jumped into Normandy of German soldiers. “He deployed his abilities and as part of Operation Overlord, the During the Normandy Campaign, courage in the Normandy campaign largest and most complex military a key event in the liberation of on June 6, 1944, the airborne campaign ever undertaken. Europe, Rice was wounded by assault on Holland on September shrapnel and a sniper bullet that hit 17, 1944 and during the defense Rice remembers the hours before his left knee. He attributes success of the key town of Bastogne in parachuting into France: in Normandy to a “complex mix of Belgium from December 19, 1944 physical and mental fighting spirit”. to December 27, 1944. Throughout “On the night of June 5, 1944, as the three campaigns, Sergeant Rice we boarded the planes that would Rice also made a fight jump in demonstrated his dedication to lead us into combat, I am not sure Holland during Operation Market that we realized the full extent of the Garden in September 1944, and the A native of Coronado, Thomas M. dangers and difficulties we faced, Battle of the Bulge from December Rice was born on August 15, 1921 or if we thought to the hundreds of 1944 to January 1945. He was to a naval aviation family, Marcus thousands of other men who have seriously injured in Bastogne during and Katherine Rice. The 600-square- faced similar or even worse trials, the Battle of the Bulge and other foot house that his father built on but if we had known all that, it bullets tore a four-inch piece of the H Avenue is still standing and it would not have made any difference radial just below his right elbow. is where Tom lives today. During to us. We were ready and almost His last combat experience of the Rice’s childhood, his father was eager to go into action and get the Second World War took place in killed in an air crash in the Panama whole bloody thing over with. “ Birtchengarten, Austria. Canal Zone in 1934. Rice graduated from Coronado High School in 1940 Shortly after midnight, in terrible Rice’s military awards include and he enlisted in the US Army weather, Rice and thousands of other a Purple Heart with two Oak Leaf at Fort Rosecrans in San Diego, “Screaming Eagles” of the 101st Clusters, Two Invasion Arrows, California on November 17th. In Airborne Division parachuted into Combat Infantry Badge, Bronze 1943 he entered basic training at the night sky and over the Germans. Star with Cluster, Good Conduct Medal, French Fourregue, Belgium Camp Toccoa, Ga. and completed While his plane was taking Lanyard and Parachutist Badge. In –TOM RICE, see page 13

10 | Febuary 2019 | CALIFORNIA LEGIONNAIRE ON THE WEB AT WWW.CALEGION.ORG Elementary School Conducts “Helmets for Heroes” Drive for Veterans Day National Commander, and Larry Department, Cody Sedano – on Van Kuran – National Executive behalf of U.S Representative Cox, Committeeman. The National and the American Legion Riders Executive Committeeman escorting the Commander on his introduced Larry Leonardo travels for attending. – Department of California Commander who, after a few Lunch was served and the open- comments, introduced the faced prime rib sandwiches were American Legion National very well received. After lunch the Commander Brett Reistad. The Commander was presented with a National Commander thanked U.S. Army leather jacket and his the attendees and the Post and Chuck “Pitbull” Camarato Aide was presented with a U.S. Vice Chairman, CALVAR updated the audience on Legion Navy leather jacket by the Post Foundation always call me or email me. activities and his goals for the Commander from the members of year. of California Sargent-at-Arms, Post 26. Dee Ann Graham - 15th District The Master of Ceremonies then In October, Sharlene Castillo, a Auxiliary President, David Graham thanked Michael Lynch - National After more visiting and pictures teacher at Lunada Bay Elementary – Post 26 Commander, Paul Brown Chief of Chaplains, Karen Goh the National Commander and his School in Palos Verdes Estates, – Department of California Adjutant, – Bakersfield City Mayor, Mike entourage continued on their way up contacted Chuck Camarato, Vice Kenneth Knight – Aide to the Hale – Captain Bakersfield Police the Valley. Chairman of the Department of California’s CALVAR Foundation, to inquire about setting up a school education project about the understandings of “Veterans Day”. Specifically, the school intended to teach children over a two-week period why Veterans Day is an important holiday. Utilizing videos, lectures and research materials, the students would learn about the various armed forces and the Veterans who have served and sacrificed for their Country. To help teach the students about taking care of our Veterans, Ms. Castillo felt that “Helmets for Heroes” would be the ideal program as a tool for students to become engaged in Veterans Assistance. At the end of the two-week lesson plan, the students then organized a fundraising push over four days culminating on November 11th, Veterans Day. Ms. Castillo stated, this drive was purely the efforts of the kids. The kids filled up 24 Helmets in four days with $600 dollars. As part of their lessons, they learned who the American Legion is, how our organization employs Service Officers, and how those Service Officers help Veterans. Attending the Veterans Day ceremony, representing the American Legion, and receiving a check for the kid’s hard work, pictured is Jere Romano, Pacific Palisades Post 283, 24th District. Ms. Castillo at the end stated, the kids loved the fundraising project and have now decided they wish to make it an annual event. How is your District progressing on our NEW “Helmets for Heroes” program? There are many avenues for supporting this program. Individual members who take a helmet home and fill it for the year, local veteran’s friendly businesses that will make direct contributions or place Helmets at their businesses. Maybe you can even have a school project in your hometown. Together, we can ALL help the Departments Ways & Means Commission have a successful year meeting their targets to support the VA&R Division. I am always ready to help any District with the implementation process. You can

ON THE WEB AT WWW.CALEGION.ORG CALIFORNIA LEGIONNAIRE | Febuary 2019 | 11 NABMW’s 2019 President – National Commander Visits Patricia Jackson Kelley (District 23) Redwood City Post 105 On January 5, 2019, at the Bob Hope Patriotic Hall 1816 S. Figueroa Street Los Angeles, CA 90015 three members of the Los Angeles Chapter NABMW were installed/appointed as officers of the National Association of Black Military Women:

Patricia Jackson-Kelley-National President NABMW Irma Hagans Cooper-Vice-President Military & Veterans Affairs Martha Alpough- Marshall-appointed National Secretary

Congratulations to all the By George W. Smith, Dixon and George Smith with many 2019 Elected Officers of Commander-District 26 Legionnaires from around the area. NABMW. ALRDOC Service Officer I’d also like to thank the Officers of Redwood City Post 105 had the Our own, General Rosetta honor of hosting a luncheon for our Post 105 that helped make the Burke, CEO of the NABMW our American Legion National event as great as it was; 2nd Vice Foundation and General Commander Brett Reistad and Commander Leo McArdle, 3rd Vice Kight, member NABMW his entourage. American Legion Commander George Silva, Judge were present. Members from Riders Chapter 82 along with Advocate William Jackson Jr., Sgt the New York Chapter who ALRDOC President Mick Sobczak at Arms Mike Toschak, Chaplain and ALRDOC Sgt at Arms Mike were present were Blossom Dennis Lopez and 1st Member at Ferguson, outgoing Treasurer Smith and Healdsburg Chapter 111 Bill Nay escorted the Commander Large Chester Palesoo. Great job and Stephanie Dawson, from Mission City Post 564 in Santa gentlemen! outgoing president. Irma Cooper, President, LA-NABMW, Charlotte Clara to Redwood City Post 105 The National Commander talked Jennings, Vice-President Los Angeles Chapter NABMW, Martha Marshall, for a luncheon in his honor with Secretary LA-NABMW, Keisha Dixson and La’Netta Seay members of LA- about the American Legion’s last Past District 26 and Past Post 105 100 years and the next 100 years, the NABMW. Commander Romie Bassetto as our master of ceremony. soon to be minted AL coins coming After the ceremony, food and drinks were served. We also enjoyed the A partial guest list included out in March, Team 100 and what it music. The DJ was awesome and we danced the evening away. The new National Commander Brett Reistad, means to our organization in addition NABMW President, Patricia Jackson-Kelley, thanks everyone for coming NEC Committeeman Larry Van to providing many interesting facts and promised to do her best to move the association forward. Kuran, DOC Commander Larry about the American Legions history. Leonardo, DOC Judge Advocate Paul Helmets for Hero’s were on every Brown, Area 2 Vice Commander James Scariot, District 26 table and we collected $200.00 for the Commander George Smith, Post 105 VA&R. Commander David Collins, District In addition to this being the 26 Auxiliary President Peggy Toye, American Legion’s centennial, it is ALRDOC President Mick Sobczak, also the centennial of two Posts in Cathay Post 384 Commander District 26, San Mateo Post 82 and Nelson Lum, George Tadlock, Post 472 Commander, Louis Dixon and Redwood City Post 105. Celebrations San Mateo Post 82 Adjutant AC are being planned for later in the year. Ralston. Honored guests, San Mateo Volunteers from District 26 County Supervisor Warren Slocum, Auxiliary, Blue Star Moms and Sr Legislative Aide Marci Dragun, Central Peninsula Church served Redwood City Councilwomen Janet everyone a light lunch prior to AL Borgens, Redwood City Police Chief Dan Mulholland, Redwood City Riders continuing the escort from Fire Chief Stan Maupin, San Mateo Post 105 to the War Memorial County Veterans Commissioners Ron Building in .

12 | Febuary 2019 | CALIFORNIA LEGIONNAIRE ON THE WEB AT WWW.CALEGION.ORG Department Chaplain

Blessings strength, and Bless those who are sick with Legion doesn’t add to what God does. has three spiritual objectives: Regular everyone and a full recovery. Thank you, Father God, for Our service in the American Legion public worship, daily family Prayer, and Happy New Year, your Divine intervention. Amen. magnifies who he is. The focus of our Religious training of children. Please refer I trust everyone service should be on putting God first in to Chaplains Hand book for a detailed had safe and Prayer for our Military members what we’re doing or about to do. In doing description of each objective. It will help enjoyable Holidays. Father God, I Pray for your protection so we’re serving God. The American clarify the Legion’s position on service to Also, I hope over our Armed Forces personnel serving Legion Preamble begins with “For God God. everyone is in good here at home and abroad. Bless our armed and Country”, We associate ourselves health, but if you forces with strength, courage, and victory together for the following purposes. The John H. Aldridge know of a Legion after victory to secure many freedoms list of promises is a responsibility for us “Religious Emphasis Week” is a part from those who would oppress. Bless Legionnaires. Regardless of our individual of the “Service to God and Country”, family member sick their family members with patience and Denominations, this is what we promise to Americanism program. It also refers to or injured, please understanding while they are away. Thank do for God and Country. the Legion’s long-standing policy of “A let me know so I you, Father God, for your Blessings. Amen. Back to God Movement”. This movement can Pray for them Our attempts to help save and protect is designed to raise the community’s and send a Get-Well Veteran Memorials veteran Memorials is an example of a awareness and participation in religious Card to them. If you haven’t heard by now, promise stipulated in our Preamble, “To activities or events. Most Posts will hold The American Legion defends the Preserve the Memories and Incidents their Four Chaplain Day services the first Remember our Ocotillo Wells Memorial Cross in of our Associations in the Great Wars”. weekend of February. The Department Deployed military CA. visit: https://www.youtube.com/ Thank God for those directly involved reserves the second weekend to hold their members. I thank watch?v=LKl9EyXcDVE in the effort to preserve the Memorials. I service. This year Religious Emphasis the many men and and, the Bladensburg Veterans Memorial believe when God’s grace is working in women currently serving in our Country’s Cross in Prince George’s County, Md us, it works its way out through our love week runs from February 3rd to February Armed Forces. I know some of them Visit: https://www.legion.org/ and service to others. Providing a service 9th. The Department of California will hold missed being at home over the Christmas honor/244229/legion-supports- to others is a Blessing to those in need. a Four Chaplains Day Inter-Faith Service and New Year holidays. If copies of this bladensburg-memorial-supreme-court- Obeying God’s commands, forgiving our on Saturday, February 9th at St. Mary’s Legionnaire should reach our troops, please filing fellow man when we’ve been wronged by Catholic Church in Sanger. The program know that The American Legion is thinking him, Praying, Bible reading, giving thanks starts promptly at 2:00 pm. The program of you and Praying for your safe return How do we serve God in the American and just spreading the word about God gives a short bio of the Four Chaplains, home. God Bless you. Legion? are ways of serving him. As Chaplains, a reading of their interfaith cooperation, we’re continuously spreading God’s word, and an illustration of their selfless service Join me in Praying for our Legion There are countless ways to serve but spreading God’s word is something to help save the lives of their fellow family members and our Military members God in our organization as well as in our everyone can do. Tithing and offerings are shipmates. Also, the Department Chaplain serving around the globe. communities. I’ve listed a few. First, we used to build and advance God’s kingdom gives a Religious Emphasis message. recognize him as our Father. Prayer begins upon the earth. This cheerful act is a great Prayer for the sick and shut-in with Praise. Our Bible(s) teaches us how way to serve God. Of course, you would do A reception will be held immediately Father God, thank you for the many to Pray. However, in order to serve God, this to your local Church. following the service. Military Units are Blessings we’ve received. Our American we must know him. You must know who welcomed! Invite your family and friends. Legion Family continues to have faith and God is to you! We then receive from him In The American Legion Chaplains Hope to see you there. belief in you. Bless those suffering with all the grace we need for everything he handbook, under “Service to God”, the Joy is the fruit of God’s Spirit within us. comfort, Bless those who are weak with commands. Our service in the American “Service to God and Country” program Romans: 14:17 Department Sergeant-At-Arms

Greetings to my mistake from time to time. American Legion Department of Each and every member of the American California Family. Legion Family, be it the Legion, Auxiliary, Sons of the American Legion, and the With the holidays American Legion Riders need to make full and the National use of every resource that is available to us Commander’s as we move forward as members, officers visit behind us, it and committee/commission members. Eric Kurtz is time to continue There is always something new to learn the important work regardless of how long we have been part of taking care of of and serving in the American Legion, business and everything that needs to be which can be seen with the changes completed before convention in June 2019 that happen as we move forward as an in Ontario. We need to continue to follow what is in place for ritual, protocol and organization. Learning is a never-ending procedure at all levels, to include educating part of life, as is change, regardless of how our new members and all current officers much we dislike change, so let us embrace for their next step in the American Legion. change as it occurs. We need to ensure that each and everyone of us as members know what is expected I look forward to seeing as many of you of us for each and every position from the as possible in March for the Spring DEC in post level on up. We need to learn through Santa Maria. listening, observing, asking questions, and through doing the jobs on a regular bases, For God and Country, and yes, we all will make the occasional Semper Fi

–TOM RICE, from page 10 to his studies at San Diego State University. He then taught social service and outstanding service to studies and history in the San Diego his regiment, and his actions were area for nearly 44 years, married consistent with the highest standards and had five children. His memoirs “Trial by Combat: A paratrooper of military service. “ of the 101st Airborne Division remembers the Battle of Normandy After Rice’s honorable discharge in 1944” (AuthorHouse 2004), tells at Fort MacArthur, CA, on of his preparation, training and December 21, 1945, he returned participation in Operation Overlord.

ON THE WEB AT WWW.CALEGION.ORG CALIFORNIA LEGIONNAIRE | Febuary 2019 | 13 Scouting Commission Michael Feist, Chairman Department of California The Department Scouting Commission had the Call-In in Lompoc on Dec. 8th which was well attended. Great things are happening with Scouting with several new, young, experienced Scouting Commissioners. The goals for 2019 are to be more proactive at all levels, with better communications and service. “CA Legion Scouters” now has a Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/groups/ CA.Legion.Scoutsers/. To be of best service to the Posts and Scouts, each District needs an active District Scouting Advisor to train and assist the Posts’ Chartered Organizational Representative (COR), and to serve the District Commander. At this time the annual Scouting Reports are due from each Post, and sent to the District for review and nomination for Scouting Awards. Legionnaires are excellent role models for Scouting. There are many opportunities for Posts and individual Legionnaires to serve our Scouting program as mentors, merit badge counselors, and advisors. You have exceptional skills from your military service that is needed by the young parents who fill positions on the Troop Committee. Your organizational skills and discipline are needed to teach the Scouting parents. We all can’t be Scoutmasters leading a 50-mile hike, but we can all be of service to American Legion Scouting. Also, during this year the Mormon Church will be leaving Scouting, which means that many Scouts and experienced parents will be looking for a new sponsor to continue in Scouting. Your Post can pick up a full troop. We are celebrating the 100th year of partnership between the American Legion and the Boy Scouts of America. We encourage each Legionnaire to join the BSA Alumni Association, called “Scouting Alumni and Friends” (SAF), and to be a member of the Dept of Calif, “Legion Scouters.” At Convention in June, we will be offering a gold 3D commemorative pin to all who sign up for this program.

Those Comrades who serve in an official CA Legion Scouters service position as a COR, District Scouting Advisor, or Commissioner will receive a limited-edition silver pin. Contact your local District Scouting Advisor or District Commander to learn how you can “reconnect” with Scouting in your community, and become a Servant Leader of the cornerstone youth program of the American Legion. Yours in Service to God and Country,

–salute to minorities’ , from page 6 pretty much to the note. When they teaching about it in my jazz history re-create that sound I’m up there course ... students before this, none tapping my feet like everyone else.” of them heard about James Reese Europe.” There’s also the challenge Europe said that as the Great of helping students reproduce the War’s centennial began, he saw band’s improvisational sound. “If an opportunity to educate himself you try to play what’s on the page, on his family’s musical roots. it just sounds nothing like what you “My grandfather and (Sissle’s) hear in the recordings,” Butler said. father brought jazz to Europe and “We go back and forth, and it’s a introduced the world to a whole new lightbulb moment for them.” style of music,” he said. “I’m proud of my legacy now, and I’m proud Stephen Gregory of Beaumont, of all these young men who are Texas, heard about the 369th reviving it. Together we’re bringing Experience opportunity from his it back.” school’s band director. He attends Southern University in Baton Rouge, The 369th Experience is led La., where he plays French horn by Isrea Butler, a sergeant in the in SU’s Human Jukebox Marching North Carolina National Guard and Band. chairman at the music department at North Carolina Central University “I auditioned and I was accepted, who enjoys educating young people and the first trip we took was to New on “lost music” like that played by York,” Gregory said. “This program the 369th Infantry Hellfighters. today at Pershing Park has opened my eyes even more. I’ve been able “This is really part of the fabric to learn more about the Harlem of my mission because I’m the Hellfighters and the 369th Regiment. secretary on the board for the HBCU It’s a grand occasion. They could Band Directors’ Consortium,” have gotten any other musicians Butler said. “As a band director, I from around the country, but they had started incorporating this music chose HBCU students, so I’m really almost by accident, because I was blessed and honored.”

14 | Febuary 2019 | CALIFORNIA LEGIONNAIRE ON THE WEB AT WWW.CALEGION.ORG Department VICE COMMANDER — AREA 5

Greetings “I’m cutting down this tree.” The young and Happy man was unabashed. “You look exhausted! Centennial Year Take a break. Sharpen your saw.” The Legionnaires!!! woodcutter explained to the young man As a former that he had been sawing for hours and did Naval Instructor, not have time to take a break. The young Technical Trainer man pushed back… “If you sharpen the and College Tracy “T-Dog” saw, you would cut down the tree much Rascoe Director, I can’t help but value faster.” The woodcutter said, “I don’t have quality training. time to sharpen the saw. Don’t you see I’m Looking back at 2018, in various too busy? discussions, I’d have to say the need for additional training was one of the top items We all know no one wants to cut metal requested by many Legionnaires. With this in mind; I’d like to touch on TAL training with a dull blade…Let’s sharpen our saw in a bit! 2019 to ensure the Legacy Continues…We are #Team100!!! https://www.youtube.com/ Most recently; on December 1, 2018, watch?v=NoPa8J3LupM District 22 delivered some Post Operations Training. It was filled with some great information for both current and incoming California Legionnaire Advertising Post Leaders (Commanders, Adjutants, Executive Board Members, etc.). As a Past Post Commander, I felt it was extremely applicable to the real world as it Full page black & white $1,400 color $1,715 10”x`14” (approx) covered some of the obstacles I faced and some of the ones I observed as a District Commander and as I see Post with our Area face. The training was taught by a 1/2 page black & white $700 .color $915 10”x7” OR 5”x14” well experienced team – mostly graduates of California American Legion College (CALC) but all well versed in their topics. Kudos and much thanks again to all the 1/4 page black & white $350 .color $450 5”x7” (approx) Instructors, I do hope we can do this again and I highly recommend attendance to anyone wanting to become a better 1/8 page black & white $175 .color $250 5”x3.5” (approx) Legionnaire and better our Posts…our Homes! The Department Weekly Membership *All proceeds go to the Veteran’s Affairs and Rehabilitation Program Report Emails and our MyLegion improved and continues to do so. They each contain helpful and up-to-date information for all Legionnaires and Leadership to improve our Membership and Operations. The Publishes 1st Week Of Every Month Deadline American Legion National has a training page https://www.legion.org/training that is packed with some great information each and every Legionnaire. I highly value February publication January 15th the Training Newsletter as it gives me an insight of where we are going and all the effort that I can see but is being done to provide us information today and in the April publication March 15th near future. I’d suggest considerations in sharing this kind information at your Post Meetings/Information Boards too. June publication May 15th Now as we kick off 2019, I’d like to start by expressing my great appreciation and a job well-done to all the Districts involved August publication July 15th with our National Commanders Visit. From my observations and discussions, the attention to our Four Pillars, Mindset, comradery exhibited and more, made for an October publication September 15th impressive visit for our guests. In addition; much thanks to the Legion Riders (Oorah! Brother Mick) and all for the great job December publication November 15th getting our guests safely through the San Diego traffic. I’m very proud and honored by everyone’s efforts and of course Dawn and I always enjoy the great hospitality and comradery too! *For advertising contact Debra Leak at: [email protected]

In closing, did you ever hear this story growing up? A woodcutter strained to saw down a tree. A young man who was Deadline for the next issue of the California Legionnaire is watching asked “What are you doing?” “Are you blind?” the woodcutter replied. March 7, 2019

ON THE WEB AT WWW.CALEGION.ORG CALIFORNIA LEGIONNAIRE | Febuary 2019 | 15 Vol. 104, No.21 Official Publication of The American Legion Department of California February 2019

THE LAST BUGLE CALL Data unavailable; will be reported in the April issue. (Full report will be in the end of year Book of Reports) O Lord, You have shown us that death is but the gateway to a more glorious life and that we must not fear its coming, and we know, also, that neither life nor death can separate us from Your love. Assure us, yet again, that our departed comrades are not lost to us, but sharing new life with You in the kingdom of our Father, where we shall in your good time be reunited. We know them to be with You forever ... Amen. Commander calls on members to make ‘Buddy Checks’ The American Legion renewal – or retrieval for Legionnaires to use when JAN 24, 2019 of Legionnaires whose making personal contact, is memberships have expired – is the personal contact to see how available online at www.legion. The American American Legion National local veterans are doing and act org/membership/buddycheck. Legion Membership Commander Brett Reistad accordingly if they need is calling on posts, districts, help. Application counties and departments to “This is not a Sign-up on-line TODAY at: www. coordinate a team and call membership campaign,” calegion.org – OR – Legionnaires and former he said. “It’s a Mail Membership application members simply to see how comradeship campaign.” and $47 to: they are doing. He added that week TAL DoC Post 1000 Application “Ask if there is anything The leading up the Legion’s 1601 7th Street, American Legion can do for 100th birthday, March Sanger, CA 93657 them,” Reistad said in a letter to 11-16, is a perfect time Please make your post leaders around the world. to make the calls, but check payable to “Perhaps they have been sick, posts that have made lost a spouse or just need to TAL DoC Post 1000 other plans to celebrate NOTE: $0.95 of annual dues goes to know someone cares. Perhaps the centennial at that time the California Legionnaire, the official they simply forgot to renew can choose another week publication of The American Legion- their membership because no in the centennial month if Department of California, to help offset one called.” necessary. the cost. Reistad said that more A Buddy Check important than membership toolkit, including scripts January 2019 | CALIFORNIA LEGIONNAIRE ON THE WEB AT WWW.CALEGION.ORG ON THE WEB AT WWW.CALEGION.ORG CALIFORNIA LEGIONNAIRE | Febuary 2019