AUGUST 2004 Vol. 157, No. 2 features 12 Forgiven Trespasses Illegal aliens from around the world CROSSING TO penetrate America’s porous borders. ANONYMITY 12 By Jeff Stoffer 26 From Factory to Foxhole U.S. Transportation Command delivers the goods during peacetime and war. 34 Compassion at Death’s Door Hospice workers help a father and son through the ordeal of losing a loved one. By Keith E. Renninson PEACE 40 The Forgotten President AMID GRIEF 34 Never a popular leader, Franklin Pierce battles a car for name recognition. By Arthur G. Sharp 44 2022: VA’s Space Odyssey Mandatory funding would make the CARES ride a smoother one. By Paul Morin

30 Point Man NO of the Pentagon RESPECT 40 Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld explains U.S. progress in the Middle East. DoD departments 4 Vet Voice 46 Under the Radar 52 Legion News Missile defense, terror by Veterans dedicate National Commander’s Message 8 the numbers and who’s who World War II Memorial, plus Why the world must in philanthropy. the 60th anniversary of D-Day. never forget 48 Living Well Comrades Big Issues 58 1o Eyesight, artichokes and aspirin. Prohibit legal gay marriage? 64 Parting Shots

The American Legion Magazine, a leader among national general-interest publications, is published monthly by The American Legion for its 2.7 million members. These wartime veterans, working through 15,000 community-level posts, dedicate themselves to God and Country and traditional American values; strong national security; adequate and compassionate care for veterans, their widows and orphans; community service; and the wholesome development of our nation’s youth. August 2004 1 The American Legion Magazine

MESOTHELIOMA VICTIMS

700 N. Pennsylvania St. P.O. Box 1055 Indianapolis, IN 46206 (317) 630-1200 http://www.legion.org National Commander John A. Brieden III Published by The American Legion EDITORIAL Editor John Raughter Managing Editor Jeff Stoffer Contributing Editor Steve Brooks Assistant Editor James V. Carroll Assistant Editor Matt Grills Assistant Editor Elissa Kaupisch Editorial Administrator Patricia Marschand General Administrator Brandy Ballenger General Administrator Robin Bowman GRAPHICS/PRODUCTION Graphics/Production Director Jon Reynolds Art Director Holly K. Soria Designer Douglas Rollison Designer King Doxsee ADVERTISING Advertising Director Diane Andretti Advertising Assistant Sara Palmer Advertising Assistant Leslie Hankins The American Legion Magazine P.O. Box 7068 Indianapolis, IN 46207 FOX ASSOCIATES, INC. Publisher’s Representatives Chicago: (312) 644-3888 New York: (212) 725-2106 Los Angeles: (213) 228-1250 Detroit: (248) 543-0068 Atlanta: (404) 497-7690 When you’re in for the fight of your life, Email: [email protected] THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE COMMISSION look to someone who’s been in your boots. Dennis J. Henkemeyer, Chairman, Bagley, MN; Samuel Barney, Vice Chairman, Lancaster, OH; Charles E. Hartman, National Commander’s Representative, Eau Claire, PA; James J. Charleston, Consultant, Island For many vets, their battles are far from Lake, IL; Robert A. Corrigan, Consultant, Bronx, NY. Commission Members: Harold F. Arnold, Statesboro, over. They’re stricken with mesothelioma GA; J.O. Berthelot, Gonzalez, LA; Vincent E. Blank, Vinton, IA; Donald R. Conn, South Bend, IN; James W. or lung cancer from exposure to asbestos Conway, Charlestown, MA; Bettylou Evans, Laurel, DE; Philip B. Finley, Colby, KS; James Hall, Hopewell, NJ; in unsafe work environments. Burdened Theodore Hartmann, Smithton, IL; Charles R. John, Duncan, OK; Bob Legan, Russellville, AR; J. Fred with skyrocketing medical costs, vets and Mitchell, Brewton, AL; Michael L. Montaney, Ephrata, their families need financial security. WA; Silas M. Noel, Frankfurt, KY; Everett G. Shepard III, Woodstock, CT; George G. Sinopoli, Fresno, CA; Robert E. Vass Sr., Huntington, WV; Frank C. Ward, Greenville, SC. NEC Liaison Committee: William W. Kile, Chairman, As a former Marine, I fought with you Bud Coady Petersburg, WV; Alfred Pirolli, Philadelphia, PA; Arthur E. Harvard, 1979 Sell, Big Timber, MT; Marco A. Valenzuela, Tempe, AZ. yesterday. As a seasoned attorney, I’ll USMC, 1979-89, 1991 Copyright 2004 by The American Legion Gulf War Veteran fight for you today. Coady attorneys The American Legion (ISSN 0886-1234) is published monthly by The American Legion, 5745 Lee Road, India- have successfully represented vets in napolis, IN 46216. Periodicals postage paid at Indianapolis, mesothelioma claims nationwide for IN 46204 and additional mailing offices. Annual non- member and gift subscriptions, $15 ($21, foreign); post- over a decade. We’ve helped them sponsored and widows’ subscriptions, $6; single copy, $3.50. Member annual subscription price $3.00, which understand their rights – and secured is included in annual member dues. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The American Legion, Data Services, their rightful compensation. P.O. Box 1954, Indianapolis, IN 46206. Internet address: http://www.legion.org. Change of Address: Notify The American Legion, Data Trust in someone who served with you. Services, P.O. Box 1954, Indianapolis, IN 46206. (317) 860-3111. Attach old address label, provide old and new Contact the Coady Law Firm – we leave addresses and current membership card number. no man behind. Canada Post International Publications Mall (Canadian Distribution) Sales Agreement No. 546321. Re-entered second-class mail matter at Manila Central Post office dated Dec. 22, 1991. For free medical and legal information, dial 1-888-802-MESO, or visit www.MIRG.org Printed in USA 205 PORTLAND STREET • BOSTON, MA 02114 • E-MAIL: [email protected] Member Audit Bureau of Circulations • Includes a Certificate of Authenticity 3 Shown actual size of approximately 5 ⁄4" long • Bike is cleverly crafted of crystalline

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Thanks from Baghdad spent in Vietnam, where he volunteered to rappel into jungles I’m an Army specialist serving in the Baghdad area. I’m and rescue downed pilots. When also a member of American Legion Post 31 in Kewanee, Ill. Tommy retired, he was a tired old I have the magazine sent to me man just over 50, battling diabe- tes, high blood pressure, kidney over here and felt compelled to failure, cancer and partial paraly- write a letter thanking The Ameri- sis. He retired on 50-percent can Legion for its support of the disability and began fi ghting the government to prove his numerous mission we’re accomplishing here illnesses were related to his service in Iraq. People back home only in Vietnam’s jungles. Last July, the know what goes on here by what government relented and put him on 100-percent disability, without they see on the news. Everyone acknowledging that his illnesses knows we are ridding Iraq of were caused by his service. He Saddam’s loyalists and terrorists. died seven months later. As past national security What they don’t know is that we director for Catholic War Veterans also are working with the Iraqi and a 40-year Legionnaire, I tried people to improve their lives. My for years to help Tommy fi ght the government, to no avail. It refused unit does daily combat patrols to admit the Agent Orange around the Baghdad area. We’ve connection. Tommy was an U.S. Army seen heavy fi ghting lately, but outstanding athlete and in excellent health before he joined we’ve also seen and done a lot of good things. the Air Force. The Yankees and Almost every person we encounter is friendly. They un- Orioles offered him baseball derstand we are trying to help them. In turn, we give them contracts, and the Celtics offered him a basketball contract, so you MREs, bottled water and anything else to make their lives know he was in top physical easier. Giving their families even one meal is greatly appre- condition. He received several ciated. Some areas here are fi lled with such poverty, yet the medals for gallantry. I add this to show that he was not a weak, sick people are hardworking and optimistic. They want a demo- man before his exposure in the cratic country free of violence and terrorism just like we do. jungles of Vietnam. Every day we see children so innocent and unaware of Keep fi ghting for veterans of the Vietnam War. They deserve what is going on around them. You see smiles on their better than they have received faces as they wave at you, just hoping you will wave back from our government. Do it in and say hello. Things like that make me proud to represent memory of Tommy and all the others like him. and serve my country. Thank you for your support. – Jim McCarthy, Wilkes-Barre, Pa. It doesn’t go unappreciated. Waiting in frustration – Spc. Nicholas Welgat, F Battery 4/5 ADA 1st Cavalry Division I served two separate terms Agent Orange in Korea as medical treatment and hospital with the Marine Corps in Vietnam The article “Agent Orange: Haze care from VA. They also may be and, upon returning, was diag- of Deception” (June) did not eligible for disability benefi ts. nosed with Agent Orange expo- mention that Agent Orange was – David Benbow, Statesville, N.C. sure. Only after months and years sprayed in and around the Korean of constant visits to the VA clinic, DMZ in 1968 and 1969. Veterans In Tommy’s memory though, did I fi nally get the who served in certain units along My brother, Thomas McCarthy, diagnosis. During that time I had the Korean DMZ now have a recently died after a fall due to a son born with a cleft lip and presumption of exposure to Agent fainting while walking up a fl ight learning disabilities, both of Orange and are entitled to Agent of stairs. He served 26 years in the which, I was told, were related to Orange Registry Exams, as well U.S. Air Force. At least fi ve were my Agent Orange encounter.

THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE WELCOMES YOUR OPINIONS Include your hometown and a daytime phone number for verifi cation. All letters are subject to editing. Send to: The American Legion Magazine, P.O. Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206 • [email protected]

4 August 2004 The American Legion Magazine If you have contracted MESOTHELIOMA or LUNG CANCER due to exposure to Asbestos

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I have heard about some kind of many more. She gave me two ‘Oral utterance’ settlement but am told that any wonderful children, a daughter I read and enjoyed Steven monies are being held back to help with a human-resources business Lubet’s article about the fl ag the offspring of Agent Orange in California and a son who is a amendment (“Toward Purposeful victims. Your article suggests that vice president with Time Warner. Dissent,” June). Sorry to say that 52,000 received payments of I want to tip my hat to The two of the senators who voted $3,800. I was one of the 105,000 American Legion for designing against it were from my state. I who fi led claims, but I never the GI Bill and pushing it through wrote and told them of my received a fi nal declaration on the Congress. Thank you, thank you, opinion of their stand. I also matter. I have now been diag- thank you. suggested to Lubet that the nine nosed with skin cancer and await – John W. Wohlfarth, Cloverdale, Calif. men and women of the Supreme further test results. I wrote to my Court should read Webster’s congressman, which was a waste Slippery road Dictionary instead of Blackwell’s of time. I also tried to get a Purple I would like to thank Jay Stuller law books. They would see that Heart, but getting a disease for much-needed insight into the speech is an “oral utterance.” doesn’t qualify you. Having a violent and pornographic content Defecating on the fl ag may be an child born deformed doesn’t of today’s media (“Not Child’s utterance, but it sure isn’t oral. qualify you. You must bleed. Play,” June), including the games – Jehu Malone, Merrillan, Wis. – Norm Croteau, Amston, Conn. our kids play. The indecent acts forced upon our Iraqi prisoners Standing with Scouts Credit where due are likely a consequence of this This winter, I entered my second “The Greatest Legislation” brainwashing. Instead of blaming year as a member of The Ameri- allowed the “greatest generation” Donald Rumsfeld, our media can Legion. Originally I joined the to be the best-educated generation egomaniacs would do well to look organization as a demonstration of and, as such, transformed Ameri- at their own part in creating this solidarity with my fellow soldiers, ca. As a benefactor of the GI Bill, I mindset that has so little regard Marines, sailors and airmen who hope Past National Commander for human life. Every parent who have served our nation overseas. Harry W. Colmery will be nation- has purchased such games, or That reason recently fell by the ally recognized as the author. allowed such games and movies, side when I read on the Boy Scout – John Newcomer, Rockford, Ill. shoulders some of the blame. Web site of the Legion’s commit- So does each and every American, ment to Scouting and the prin- A changed life for we have allowed our society ciples it teaches. “The Greatest Legislation” was to drift down the slippery road As a former Boy Scout and an enlightening and rewarding, of immorality. active-duty military offi cer, I especially for those of us fortunate – James Cramer, via e-mail cannot adequately express my enough to have been recipients of gratitude to the Legion for its the GI Bill. The American Legion Parents’ job continuous support of Scouting. and I go way back, to June 1943. Jay Stuller’s article “Not Child’s The lessons in leadership, duty, Upon graduating from high Play” is interesting. I’m currently selfl ess service and integrity that I school, I was honored to receive in college, with a 3.0 and above learned as a Boy Scout have the American Legion Medal for GPA, and I love “Grand Theft carried me through many years, being an outstanding male student Auto: Vice City,” “Mortal Kom- hardships and subsequent chal- in American democracy and U.S. bat,” “Resident Evil,” “Manhunt” lenges to my character. I can still history. One year later, the Army and any other M (Mature)-rated recite from memory the Scout drafted me. While serving in games I can get my hands on. Did Oath, Law and Motto and, more Calcutta, India, I learned of the GI I mention my major is criminal importantly, I still use them as a Bill providing college benefi ts to justice? Didn’t think so. I’m so guide in my daily life. servicemen. For me, that benefi t tired of people blaming things Without a doubt, I believe it is meant as much as a drink of water that happen in real life on video the best organization for molding to a man dying of thirst. games and entertainment. The boys into men – teaching them When I returned to the United truth is that the ratings system about their responsibilities to their States, I went to the veterans changes nothing. Kids are going communities, nation and deity. I offi ce in Camden, N.J. No way to fi nd a way to get the stuff they sincerely thank The American could I afford a college education want, whether it’s the newest Legion for standing with the Boy without the GI Bill. A representa- video game or a drug with which Scouts, even in the face of adver- tive told me Temple University in they want to experiment. Ulti- sity and attacks from organiza- Philadelphia was accepting mately it’s up to the parents of tions focused on tearing down a applications from returning these kids to teach them right or great worldwide institution. I rest servicemen. I applied and was wrong. Don’t blame Rockstar easy knowing that my dues – this accepted. As an undergraduate, I Games for “Grand Theft Auto.” year and in future years – support met the girl who would become Blame our society. such a worthy cause. my wife of 55 years and hopefully – Dawn Blake, Edgecomb, Maine – John M. Cooper, Fort Huachuca, Ariz.

6 August 2004 The American Legion Magazine VETERANS COMMEMORATIVES™ PROUDLY PRESENTS ITS OFFICIAL UNITED STATES ARMED FORCES MILITARY SERVICE RINGS Featuring a Solid 10KT Gold Service Branch Emblem on Genuine Black Onyx

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as a representative of the heroes who drove the Third Reich Chase Studios from their country in 1944 and 1945. The Allies suffered more National Commander than 61,000 casualties in the fi rst 30 days of the invasion, John Brieden including more than 9,000 killed on D-Day. Last June, all across France, the benefi ciaries of that sacrifi ce stepped forward and repeated, “Thank you, America. Thank you for liberating us.” In one town, a mayor halted his schedule to memoranda meet with us only to express his gratitude. In Paris, we gathered at the Hotel Des Invalides, a former IMPACT 2004 French veterans hospital near Napoleon’s tomb. The French By the end of August, President Bush and government had paid to bring in 100 U.S. veterans to pin them Democratic challenger Sen. John Kerry will with the Legion of Merit. The following day at Omaha Beach, present their answers to the Military & Veterans President Bush and French President Jacques Chiraq, who we Vote Impact 2004 online debate at know have been at odds over our ongoing efforts to liberate www.impact04.legion.org. Also at the Web Iraq, found common ground. They spoke of two centuries as site, visitors will fi nd voter-registration informa- allies, of the separate legacies they share from D-Day – how it tion for active-duty personnel. saved France and defi ned America. Both national anthems were played. Volleys were fi red. Tears were shed. SHOOTING SPORTS I talked with one emotion-choked U.S. veteran. “I don’t know The 14th Annual Legion Junior Shooting Sports how I made it … or why I made it.” When he looked across the Tournament is Aug. 10-14, Colorado Springs. sand and along the bluff, he saw the ghosts of freedom’s price. Earlier, I was in Washington for the dedication of the World LEGION WORLD SERIES War II Memorial on the National Mall. More than 150,000 The 79th Annual American Legion Baseball World World War II veterans had come to see what many of them felt Series is set for Aug. 20-24 at Hansen Stadium on they never really needed: a monument. Veterans of World War Taylor Field in Corvallis, Ore. Eight regional champs II saw victory as reward enough – the freedom that emerged from across the United States will converge on from their sacrifi ces, the prosperity of the 20th century, a Corvallis, site of the 1990 series. Each game will world saved from dictatorship, imperialism, the Holocaust. be scored live from Hansen Stadium on The monument is for us. And it is for future generations who www.baseball.legion.org. must always know our planet once stood at the precipice of a second Dark Age, one that human civilization might have NATIONAL CONVENTION spent centuries fi ghting to overcome. Thank God the veterans The American Legion’s 86th Annual National of World War II were strong enough, brave and willing to fi ght Convention is planned for Aug. 27-Sept. 2 in to the death – with no turning back – for my freedom, for that Nashville, Tenn. For information about the of my children and grandchildren, and all their future genera- Nashville area, visit www.nashvillecvb.com tions. I hope they all take time at the National Mall or the and to read about the convention, including Normandy coast to think about what might have been. summaries of newly adopted resolutions, visit www.legion.org, see September’s Dispatch and November’s issue of The American Legion Magazine for complete coverage.

8 August 2004 The American Legion Magazine big issues Prohibit legal same-sex marriage? YES NO Rep. Marilyn Musgrave Cheryl Jacques R-Colo. n Former school teacher n Jacques is president of the Musgrave is a member of the Human Rights Campaign, a House Education and national lesbian, gay, bisexual Agriculture Committees. and transgender organization.

arriage is a unique union between one s brave American troops fi ght a war in Iraq, Mwoman and one man. Marriage is facing a Asome politicians are focusing on a constitu- particular challenge – the threat of a radical tional amendment that would, for the very fi rst redefi nition. The essential role this institution time, enshrine discrimination into our nation’s plays in American society is being undone by a guiding legal document. handful of activist judges, including four members My father served in the Air Force during the of the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court who Korean War and was a commander of The Ameri- ruled that traditional marriage is unconstitutional can Legion in Millis, Mass. I expect his belief is and must be redefi ned to shared by many enlisted men include homosexual couples. THE HEART OF THE ISSUE and women today that politi- The gay and lesbian lobby cians should focus on ensuring shopped around various state Homosexual marriage has been that soldiers have the body courts and found a group of legalized in Massachusetts, and laws armor they need, the compen- judges to legitimize their in other states defi ning marriage as sation they deserve and the lifestyle as an equivalent to respect they’ve earned. traditional marriage. They hit exclusively between a man and a But some want to use the the jackpot in Massachusetts. woman could be struck down as a Constitution to take protections This redefi nition of marriage result. A constitutional amendment is away. The so-called “Federal began in earnest, when court- Marriage Amendment” would ordered gay marriage licenses proposed to ban same-sex marriages. prevent same-sex couples from were issued in Massachusetts. visiting each other in the Homosexual couples stormed the state to marry hospital, sharing health insurance and receiving and then began challenging state laws around the survivor and tax benefi ts. It would prevent same- nation by demanding their marriages be legally sex couples not only from marrying but also from recognized, as traditional marriage is, under the entering into civil unions. Constitution’s Full Faith and Credit clause. Changing the Constitution is not the right As a result, I introduced the Federal Marriage approach. In the past 214 years, the Constitution Amendment, to defi ne marriage in the Constitu- has only been amended 17 times, always only to tion as a union between one man and one woman. expand the rights of Americans, including the Instead of going through the deliberative, abolishment of slavery and giving women and Afri- legislative process, gay activists are turning to the can-Americans the right to vote. courts to force gay marriage on the American What’s even more bewildering is that there is people. The Federal Marriage Amendment will already a federal law that denies marriage to simply prevent unelected judges from redefi ning same-sex couples. This amendment distracts mem- marriage. In addition, this bill protects states from bers of Congress from America’s real challenges – having to recognize any civil union another state like job losses, national security and the economy. enacts and prohibits state and federal courts from Meanwhile, every day, young American men and forcing civil unions on state legislatures. women – some who are gay – are losing their lives Failing to pass the amendment will leave mar- fi ghting in Iraq. riage to the whims of rogue judges who would Patriotic gay and lesbian veterans – including a forever blur the boundaries. The American people former rear admiral – gathered at our headquarters will be forced to accept relationships regardless of to speak out for fairness and equality in the what form they take. military and throughout American life. This event Four justices in Massachusetts should not be demonstrated that America is strongest when we allowed to force gay “marriage” on the entire put aside our differences and unite around the nation. Judges should not legislate from the bench. values of freedom and equality we cherish.

CONTACT YOUR LEADERS The Honorable (name), U.S. Senate, Washington, DC 20510 • Phone: (202) 224-3121 The Honorable (name), House of Representatives, Washington, DC 20515 • Phone: (202) 225-3121

10 August 2004 The American Legion Magazine “ I forgot where I put “ Yesterday I forgot a number my keys last week” that I’ve dialed for years”

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Human smugglers known as boys willing to scour toilets or concern in the war on terrorism. “coyotes” perpetually feed more mow lawns for minimum wage, They come in immeasurable and more people into the United or do more for less. They might waves to dozens of staging areas States from foreign lands and out come from South America, Asia, like the corrals south of Cochise of whatever unknown, un- Africa or the Middle East. No County, Ariz., where the San checked circumstances they left matter who comes or from where, Pedro River’s listless headwaters behind. These migrants could be the door is open for a coyote’s grow enough cottonwoods and convicted felons or political price: $1,500 a head for a typical willows to make good cover 140 refugees, narco-terrorists or sex Hispanic laborer, up to $50,000 miles into the United States. This slaves, tuberculars or teen-age for a sojouner from a nation of is the soft underbelly of America’s

12 August 2004 The American Legion Magazine Chris Simcox of Tombstone, Ariz., scans the washes south of the San Pedro River, looking for illegal aliens in transit to America. He says his civilian border patrol has assisted in the apprehension of more than 2,500 immigrants from foreign countries.

2,000-mile border with Mexico. houses where illegal immigrants and 12 million come from U.S. Aliens who don’t die crossing the were held captive, awaiting Census Bureau calculations that desert or get nabbed by authori- extortion money to pay their seem to assume undocumented ties along the way funnel into smugglers and keep the line foreigners dutifully fi ll out southern Arizona, dump their moving in America. One-hundred government forms and truthfully backpacks in the bushes of fi fty-nine immigrants were answer questions that could remote “lay-up” areas and ride discovered living in fi lth, afraid reveal their eligibility for depor- silently into the swelling under- to go outside, in one unfurnished tation. According to those ground of America’s undocument- home rented to coyotes. Seventy- estimates, America’s illegal- ed. No one is certain in what eight were found under the roof immigrant population more than number they are coming or how of another, in a neighborhood doubled in the last decade of the fast, where they are heading, or if where home values commonly hit 20th century. Those who anx- they ever intend to go back. $400,000. One immigrant who iously monitor such phenomena Coyotes don’t publish statistics. emerged from a drop house told say the actual number of illegal Anecdotal evidence of illegal The Arizona Republic he was aliens in our midst is much immigration’s impact, however, among about 100 who “were higher. Kathy McKee, director of is mounting in places like packed in there like a pack of an organization called Protect Phoenix, where last winter’s cigarettes.” The raids did more Arizona Now (PAN), which has string of “drop-house” busts than expose a few isolated campaigned this year for a ballot astonished even the most alien- examples of just how inhumane initiative requiring proof of hardened Arizonans, people who the illegal alien game has be- citizenship of those seeking to have grown accustomed to seeing come; they produced rare hard vote or to receive welfare ben- young men schooled up in numbers to illustrate a fast- efi ts, says she believes up to 30 parking lots of home-improve- changing social condition million undocumented aliens are ment stores, offering in broken America does not – perhaps by living in America. But no one English to perform household choice – fully calculate. really knows because they’re labor for handfuls of cash. In a Estimates that put the U.S. virtually impossible to count, two-week period last February, illegal-immigrant population like so many goldfi sh in a tank, Phoenix police broke up 10 drop somewhere between 8 million moving anonymously from job to

August 2004 13 The American Legion Magazine job, using pseudonyms, fl ashing a fast-growing consumer group, a babies” are a ticket to citizenship counterfeit Social Security cards, target market whose dollars are for their parents, forging links in fake work visas or illegally coveted by a growing Spanish- the blood chains that ultimately obtained driver’s licenses. Undoc- language advertising industry, on pull grandparents, uncles, aunts, umented immigrants also can billboards, radio, television and cousins and other relatives across sink pretty deeply into American in print media. Immigrants annu- the border. More than one third society on their Mexico-issued ally wire back to Mexico billions of those here illegally receive matricula consular cards alone. of dollars, a point often repeated some form of public assistance. Available to anyone with money, by those who defend illegal labor Illegal immigrants can register to the cards are not always accepted as an offset to the $14 million to vote in many states, over the as legal identifi cation in Mexico, $18 million in foreign aid sent to Internet if so desired (one man in but they are good enough to open America’s second- Arizona registered an American bank account. leading trade A 2002 study of 48 terrorists his dog to vote, Critics of the cards say they are partner. The revealed that at least 21 had according to the useful only to illegal immigrants amount immi- violated U.S. immigration PAN Website), and because foreigners with real grants sent back to laws before taking part in can cast ballots visas are required to carry other Mexico last year is terrorism activities. without proving forms of U.S.-issued ID. An estimated as high – Center for Immigration Studies citizenship or American auto dealer in Phoenix as $17 billion, but identity. Approxi- bought a Mexican matricula there is no agreed-upon fi gure, mately 190,000 illegal aliens are consular card over the Internet and only conjecture about where in a U.S. jail at any given time. for $80, just to prove he could. the money actually goes. A good Some use bogus green cards to The card lists his birthplace as portion of it is known to feed the join the U.S. Armed Forces and Tijuana, British Columbia. coyotes and pay for counterfeit become naturalized that way; To survive in the U.S. econo- credentials. more than 16,000 active-duty my, undocumented workers Once in America, illegal personnel last year reportedly materialize each morning before immigrants enroll their children had unknown citizen status. the eyes of potential employers in public schools and often can Others simply cling to their who are increasingly compelled receive resident college tuition anonymity until the U.S. govern- to solicit their cheap, dependable rates, while U.S. citizens from ment tosses up an offer of labor to stay competitive in other states and foreigners here amnesty, which is alarmingly industries from meatpacking to legally cannot. Children of illegal inevitable, in one form or anoth- homebuilding. Illegal status immigrants are blamed for er. In that case, all is forgiven. undoubtedly leaves immigrants straining public-education America is, after all, a nation of susceptible to budgets, immigrants. Often, only a labor abuse lowering generation or two separates any (according to standardized of us from the poor, the tired, the one estimate, test scores and huddled masses who booked undocumented raising dropout steerage-class passage and workers die on rates, if for no wobbled seasick onto Ellis Island the job at more other reason a half-century or more ago, or than double the than the bobbed away from a Vietnam or rate of U.S. language a Cuba, in more recent years. So citizens), but barrier. When many are Americans today the relationship Auto dealer Rusty Childress of Phoenix sick or hurt, because someone before them has risks for bought a Mexican matricula consular card illegal aliens left a home country and landed employers, too, for $80 over the Internet. can take their in a place that was more idea who can be problems to U.S. than location, an opportunity for prosecuted for failing to confi rm hospitals and clinics, knowing things to be better, and they the authenticity of work visas they will receive treatment even usually were. No other country and for ignoring state and federal if they don’t have the ability – or welcomes more immigrants, legal tax withholdings. inclination – to pay for it. They or otherwise, than the United Hispanic laborers paid under re-introduce to America previ- States, which makes room for at the table will work hard and long ously controlled diseases like least 2 million a year and doubt- in all kinds of weather, employ- tuberculosis and cholera. Some less many more. That legacy is ers say – often at half the wages fi le federal income tax returns the basis of thinking for those commanded by Americans, yet and rake in huge refunds be- who view immigration’s newest 10 times the pay in Mexico. They cause, as low-paid parents of manifestation as just another put in their hours. They are dependent children, they qualify chapter in an ongoing American rewarded with cash. They buy for earned-income credits – one saga. But the story is much groceries, drive cars, rent apart- of many incentives for rapid different now, or so it seems, ments and have babies. They are procreation. U.S.-born “anchor since the events of Sept. 11, 2001.

14 August 2004 The American Legion Magazine A U.S. Border Patrol agent interviews a group of tired illegal immigrants alongside State Highway 80 between Douglas and Bisbee, Ariz. Apprehensions increased more than 50 percent in the fi rst quarter of 2004, compared to the same period in 2003.

Immigration has always had an – if we have learned anything the United States and committed uncomfortable seat in the U.S. from our turn-of-the-century crimes and atrocities from drug economic theater, but the terrror- arrivals, it is that assimilation is traffi cking to murder, while ist attacks in New York, Wash- diffi cult.” Furthermore, Hanson business leaders, elected offi cials ington and Pennsylvania – argues, America no longer and the media stand idly by, triggered in part by illegal aliens requires assimilation. unwilling to surrender political – amplifi ed awareness of Ameri- Even more disturbing than correctness for the sake of public ca’s potential for exploitation by socioeconomic shifts is the reality safety. undocumented foreign enemies. that America is now in its third It’s not a race issue, says The 21st-century economy year of an amorphous global war Malkin, a fi rst-generation Ameri- suddenly can’t be considered against suicidal anti-Western can and daughter of Filipino outside the context of illegal lunatics who know they can parents. “The demand for a more immigration’s effects on wage always hire a coyote and cross discriminating immigration suppression, unemployment and the desert with all the viruses, policy – one that welcomes government budget defi cits. chemicals or nuclear devices that American Dreamers and bars Author Victor Davis Hanson will fi t in a backpack. Out in the American Destroyers – is rooted writes in “Mexifornia: A State of vast sea of immigration statistics in love of country, not hatred of Becoming” (2003, Encounter – however reliable they may be – foreigners,” she writes. “One year Press) that illegal migration into fl oat the estimated 78,000 aliens after the terrorist attacks, the the U.S. economy from Mexico is believed to be here from coun- avenues for death and destruction no longer a cyclical phenomenon tries of questionable intentions in remain virtually unobstructed.” predicated by the seasonal needs the war on terrorism. While most “At the border every night, it’s of agriculture. The illegal immi- who arrive illegally do so from like the Boston Marathon,” grant, he argues, is coming to Latin America in order to fi nd McKee says. “How do I know bin stay, with no intention of return- work, thousands from the Middle Laden isn’t going to be in there? ing to a hopeless or dangerous East, Africa, Europe and Asia also They don’t know who’s in there.” home country, nor with much are caught each year at the U.S. Border Patrol agents study desire to assimilate into U.S. border. Others are discovered staging areas like the corrals culture. And now, the illegal later, after they have broken a south of Cochise County and immigrant is not asked to assimi- more seriously enforced U.S. law. make daily apprehensions. But late. “The problem … is the In “Invasion: How America Still there’s a lot of desert between changing attitude toward immi- Welcomes Terrorists, Criminals Chula Vista, Calif., and Browns- gration and assimilation – and Other Foreign Menaces to ville, Texas. Agents estimate that making too many of us separate Our Shores” (2002, Regnery three illegals get by for each one and unequal,” Hanson writes. “It Publishing), author Michelle caught and sent back, and the has always been easier for people Malkin chronicles dozens of newly deported simply hire who emigrate to keep their own instances where thugs from different coyotes and try again. culture than to join the majority foreign lands have waltzed into Skeptics estimate the ratio is

August 2004 15 The American Legion Magazine closer to one alien caught for “We’re under siege,” says Iris It’s not a sport, says Chris every fi ve who freely pass. Again, Lynch, who can see the Mexican Simcox of Tombstone, Ariz., who no one really knows. Statistics border from her backyard. “They leads a grassroots organization vary depending on who is doing say we have more than a million called Civil Homeland Defense, the math and toward what end. a year coming through. There’s which regularly stalks the border The reason America’s southern no port-a-potties out there. Think for aliens. “We have assisted the border is so porous, many agree, about that. Creeks where people Border Patrol in catching 2,553 is a lack of political will on the used to hike are now littered and people in just over a year,” he U.S. side to provide adequate fi lled with human waste. They says, adding that while some security. Low pay, even after are everywhere. We button down Border Patrol agents refer to his every night. I don’t group as “birdwatchers,” critics know how many call them “vigilantes.” Simcox hundreds go by at says he and his fold are simply night, and I am following orders President Bush not going out there issued after the terrorist attacks of to fi nd out.” 2001. “We took the president The American serious when he said to be Legion has several vigilant and report suspicious resolutions calling illegal activities. They wanted all for immigration of America to get involved in policy changes, national security. Nobody is doing better border more than we are, right here on security and, the border, on the front line.” if necessary, And there’s no place like the military presence front line to witness the collision to support out- between America’s broken numbered U.S. immigration policy and its authorities. consequences on human lives. But troops on the “People we have found out here Cochise County Sheriff Larry Dever says illegal immigration border is a tough have had no water, have been takes more than 30 percent of his budget. Desert deaths, he sell in the snow- lost, were abandoned or abused says, must all be investigated as homicides. bird retirement by the smugglers, including meccas of the deep children, and mothers carrying Sept. 11, 2001, drove thousands Southwest. “When I have talked their babies,” Simcox says. “We of Border Patrol agents to other to our congressman about it, have found hundreds of kids jobs. And while their numbers the fi rst comment is, ‘Well, you coming through in the middle of have been urgently increased don’t want tanks driving down the night with no water. We have since a near-crisis exodus two the streets of Green Valley,’” says found entire families, entire years ago, authorities cannot Randy Graf, Republican House villages from southern Mexico, stem the tide. Between 1992 and majority whip in the Arizona trying to cross. I have personally 2000, Border Patrol apprehen- Legislature. “And I agree. I don’t caught people from 26 different sions of unauthorized migrants think there’s anybody who would countries, including China, Korea, increased from 1.1 million to want tanks driving down the Pakistan, and every Central 1.6 million per year. Last Febru- streets of Green Valley. But we American and South American ary in southern Arizona, illegal are not talking about tanks. country you can name. Hundreds border crossings accelerated We don’t need tanks. We need from Poland, and some from again – some say by double or a presence.” Croatia. There is nothing that will more – after President Bush’s Lacking that, local militia boggle your mind more than to early 2004 proposal of a guest- groups have sprung up. A walk up to a group of people in worker program to temporarily growing corps of private land- the night, sitting on rocks in the legalize millions of undocument- owners and civilian watchdogs desert, and they’re European or ed workers, and in advance of a have taken up videocameras, Asian.” Simcox says his group has well-publicized June 1 crack- binoculars, satellite phones and, saved 94 lives in the desert. down. In the fi rst three months of indeed, arms, in an attempt to Illegal immigration is indeed a 2004, in the Tucson Border Patrol protect the borders themselves. deadly risk. More than 2,000 sector alone, more than 200,000 They assemble in the desert at undocumented immigrants died illegal aliens were apprehended, a regularly scheduled intervals, as trying to cross into the United 50-percent increase over the same others might gather for bowling States between 1995 and 2002. period in 2003. The peak season, night, to scan the washes for Nearly 500 died – by causes between the freezing nights of tracks and listen in camoufl age including drowning, suffocation, winter and blistering heat of sum- for the footfalls of an illegal homicide and heat exposure – in mer, was yet to come. population in transit. 2000 alone. “One of our biggest

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``ÀiÃÃÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊ challenges in law enforcement on Simcox keeps a lawnchair country. However, every wave of the border is that each one of tucked beneath a mesquite tree at immigration before has matched those deaths has to be investi- his favorite rocky knoll. There, the need. Now, it’s just a free-for- gated as a homicide,” says he has a sprawling view of the all. You have people coming Cochise County Sheriff Larry washes and gullies that drain here, making a mockery of our Dever, who says more than toward the San Pedro River. citizenship. That’s what drives 30 percent of his budget is Other members of his group me to this.” consumed each year on illegal stake out elevated positions so Simcox watches quietly for any immigration matters. “It’s a huge they can easily surround aliens sign of movement. Suddenly, a commitment of manpower. We passing below, blind them with tiny white plane soars overhead. had 140 die in the desert last year spotlights and call in the Border He trains his binoculars on it. It’s in the four border counties. To be Patrol for pickup. “That’s all we a drone – an unmanned aerial investigated as a homicide, that do,” Simcox says. “Once they are vehicle equipped with a camera means I have to send out my sitting down, I go up and say, that relays images back to a high- resources to process the scene, ‘Hola! Buenos dias!’ I’m not tech command center in the back fi gure out who they are, where shouting at them or anything. of an American Border Patrol van they came from, how they got I’m not going to shoot someone. fi ve miles away. There, Glenn there, if there was any foul play, They’re (mainly) just migrant Spencer and his civilian crew then take them to the medical workers. They don’t deserve to record who and what they see in examiner’s offi ce for an autopsy. die for that. the desert and post their fi ndings Just this year, local mortuaries “From a national security on the Web site Americanpatrol. began refusing to pick up the viewpoint, this has got to be com – an online forum for illegal bodies. They’re not getting diddly done. You’ve got to stop the drug immigration information, com- squat for it. Plus, (the bodies) are dealers, the crime, the sex mentary and video recordings. just a mess – most of them have crimes, the slavery, the people The ABP Web site regularly been out there three or four days dying in the desert. People posts eerie images of aliens when they are found. It’s not shouldn’t be dying for a mini- tromping single-fi le through the pleasant. We also know there are mum-wage job. This is really an desert in the night. When the hundreds, if not thousands, of ethnic cleansing. They are immigrants trip a buried sensor unreported sexual assaults. One herding people over the border and see the little red light on the study suggested 68 percent of all because they don’t want to take top of the camera, they turn and migrants, by the time they reach care of them. Yes, there are jobs scurry back into the brush. “All the Arizona border, are victims here. And yes, we need immigra- you have to do is show up, and of some kind of assault.” tion. Immigration built this you will see people,” says

The American Legion’s positions on illegal immigration Threat to National Security. To reduce illegal immigra- 21st-Century Immigration Policy. The American tion’s threat to national security, The American Legion Legion supports a U.S. immigration policy that will limit calls for collaboration among all law-enforcement immigration, eliminate some visa categories (such as agencies to work together to apprehend, detain and those for adult offspring and siblings), restrict eligibility deport those in the United States illegally. “Our coun- for public assistance, implement a nationwide system to try’s enemies recognize and understand that our determine employment eligibility, and provide funding nation’s failure to control its borders or regulate the necessary for effective border management and interior right to live in the United States is a weakness and have enforcement of immigration laws. – Resolution 311, 2002 already, in the case of the acts of terrorism committed Citizenship Naturalization Process. The Legion on Sept. 11, 2001, exploited that weakness with deadly opposes any attempts to dilute such requirements as consequences.” – Resolution 306, 2002 English language skills and knowledge of U.S. history Amnesty. No matter whether it is called a “legalization,” and government in the naturalization process – “all “regularization” or a “guest-worker program,” forgive- vitally important in affecting a healthy assimilation into ness of those who enter the United States illegally is a our society.” – Resolution 45, 2003 costly policy that leads to more, not less, illegal immigra- Department of Homeland Security. The March 2003 tion. “Neither the administration or Congress have incorporation of the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization explained how a massive amnesty program for illegal Service into the Department of Homeland Security leads immigrants will benefi t the American public.” the Legion to call for strict sanctions against employers – Resolution 307, 2002 who knowingly hire illegal aliens; adequate funds for College Financial Aid and In-State Tuition. The Ameri- U.S. authorities to provide border security; the denial of can Legion opposes any legislation proposed to provide public assistance and unemployment compensation to fi nancial aid and offer in-state tuition rates to illegal illegal aliens; no extension or enhancement of legaliza- immigrants or grant amnesty to those younger than 21 tion opportunities; and free fl ow of information and who have lived in America and gone to school fi ve years technology among agencies tasked with controlling the or more. – Resolution 308, 2002 problem. – Resolution 42, 2003

18 August 2004 The American Legion Magazine An American Border Patrol drone records desert activity and relays it back to a mobile command center.

Michael King, who works as vice Spencer says he believes and systematic violation of president of technology for demonstrations of his unmanned human rights occurring on U.S. Border Technologies, Inc., which aerial vehicles contributed to soil today.” That was the observa- operates out of the ABP head- funding and plans for two tion of Wayne Cornelius, director quarters. “We just go to the same government drones set for of the Center for Comparative spot. We don’t even vary it.” deployment in the June crack- Immigration Studies at the Enough illegal traffi c pours down in the remote country of University of California-San through the desert every day, southern Arizona. Diego, at a panel discussion in Border Patrol agents could make Illegal immigration gravitated 2002. He said Gatekeeper failed as many apprehensions as to the deserts and mountains by to reduce the overall number of desired, King says. “Tactically, design after 1994 when Operation illegal aliens, tripled the INS they might be able to see every Gatekeeper tightened the border budget, and increased deaths at one of them, but logistically, they around populated areas of the border. Some activists prefer can’t deal with it. It’s just way California and Texas. Civil opening the borders altogether too overwhelming. Thousands of libertarians called the effort by over allowing half-hearted people are coming into this the Immigration and Naturaliza- immigration policies to lead country every night, just in this tion Service a “brutal success” people to their deaths. “We must area here. And this is not a that turned border crossing into take death out of the migration gigantic area.” “the most obvious, most huge, equation,” states the Rev. Robin

Immigration Reform. The inability to control illegal The Naturalization Process. The advent of foreign- immigration leads to the call for immediate reform, language naturalization ceremonies, optional ceremo- including more and better-trained Border Patrol agents, nies, and naturalization by mail, leads the Legion to with hiring preference for veterans; increased collabora- reiterate its stance that English be declared the nation’s tion with state and local authorities; immediate deporta- offi cial language and that naturalization ceremonies at tion proceedings for those without valid visas; require- U.S. District Courts continue to serve as initial steps in ment that legal aliens carry high-security identifi cation the process. – Resolution 44, 2003 verifi able through a central database; emergency Matricula Consular Identifi cation Cards. The Legion measures to prevent human smuggling and to stop, urges Congress and state legislatures to adopt mea- detain and deport potential terrorists; and, “as appropri- sures to invalidate the cards. – Resolution 46, 2003 ate, military resources … to assist in stopping the fl ow of illegal aliens into this country.” – Resolution 40, 2003 Non-Immigrant Visas. The Legion calls on Congress to establish numerical limits for all visa categories, and for Student Visas. A foreign-student tracking system like all categories of temporary workers, to prevent labor- the former INS Student and Exchange Visitor Information market distortions; and that federal authorities be System should be adopted; institutions that do not provided the necessary tools to investigate fraud and comply should lose federal loans for foreign students. other unlawful visa activities, deporting those who – Resolution 39, 2003 remain in the country after visas expire; and that The Canadian Border. America’s border with Canada “thorough background checks be conducted on all lacks adequate security, and resources are needed. individuals entering the country.” – Resolution 47, 2003 “There are only 1,773 U.S. Customs agents and 350 Legal Immigration. Rapid growth among immigrants, Border Patrol agents to guard the 4,000-mile United legal and illegal, “has placed great burdens on our States and Canada border; and … there are over 9,000 nation’s natural resources, housing, schools, medical Border Patrol agents guarding the 2,000-mile border facilities, government services and national security,” between the United States and Mexico.” according to The American Legion, as it calls for lower – Resolution 38, 2003 legal immigration limits. – Resolution 48, 2003

August 2004 19 The American Legion Magazine Hoover, founder and president of road where a car pulled up the irregular jobs in America sus- a group called Humane Borders, night before, and people climbed tained their family and how life which distributes water in the into unfamiliar cars for a back- on the other side was often spent desert for migrants trying to get seat ride into the idea of Ameri- hungry. “Workers are kept into America, much to the ca, an idea they are changing. down,” he says. “They’re never chagrin of those who think such When Jesus Aguilar came going to get nothing. That’s why activities only encourage illegal across in the early 1970s, he was we are here. America has enough immigration. a 15-year-old boy from Gua- to feed all of Mexico.” “The greatest betrayal in najuato. To him, he was coming About 25 years ago, Aguilar history is to open our borders from nowhere. The son of a and 16 others followed a coyote like this to a hostile nation, and migrant worker who participated into the night. His hands became there is no question this is a in the Bracero Program, which so numb he could not stuff them hostile nation – hostile and recruited migrant labor into the into his pockets. The group went growing more violent,” Spencer American Southwest to make up for 12 hours straight, buoyed by argues. “A woman was accosted for lost manpower during World the promise of America, the just a few miles away from here War II (the program continued likelihood of something better last week. Then a young man until 1964), Aguilar had no ahead. “My dream was to buy whose car overheated was confi dence of receiving fair pay my own washer, my own car, jumped by three Mexicans, who for a day’s work in Mexico. He maybe own a watch,” he says. started choking him to death. remembers how his father’s “You could work here and have We’ve had people accosted, fi red at, and the Border Patrol has been in several shootouts, just recently. It’s getting violent. Assimilation is in reverse thrust.” Spencer has raised money and spent tens of thousands of his own dollars on monitoring equipment, including a digital computer lab in his home near Sierra Vista, Ariz. His group also helped lead a 115,000-petition rally last spring in Tucson to put the military on the border. Open-borders activists, many wearing masks, came to the rally carrying placards with caustic slogans contending that the American Southwest was originally Aztec territory and should be ceded to Mexico. At a layup area in rural Cochise County, Henry Harvey – a member of Civil Homeland Defense – sorts through the debris imported from Mexico. He fi nds backpacks fi lled with cookies and broken tortillas. A woman’s denim jacket. He picks it up and shakes the dirt from it. He will donate it to a shelter in Sierra Vista. He kicks over empty water bottles and pop cans, shakes toothbrushes and razors from plastic bags. “These are not poor, starving people,” he grumbles, studying tracks in the Henry Harvey of Civil Homeland Defense picks through items left at a lay-up area east of Sierra Vista, Ariz. Clothing items in good shape, he says, will be donated to a women’s shelter.

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Poor in America is much better than rich in Mexico.” He lived in fear. “Every day, you worry about getting caught,” he says. “You drive with no driver’s license, and they come up from behind, and you think they will get you.” In less than a year, authorities found Aguilar working in an orange grove and deported him to Nogales, where he paid another coyote another $90 to get him back into the United States. He was not caught again and became a U.S. citizen two years ago. He and his wife have four daughters who will never have to hire smugglers, Jesus Aguilar came to America illegally in the 1970s. He is now a citizen with four daughters jump fences or sleep in tool sheds “in the top 10 percent of their class.” Mayomy, 12, occasionally serves as a school translator. to avoid detection. His 12-year-old daughter Mayomy, whose bilin- never saw all the South Ameri- home and look for a job? Or do gual skills are sometimes sum- cans. Now, you see them from they step across the border? moned to provide translation at all different countries. We have a The social structure in Mexico her school, wants to be a teacher lot of problems now. So many is being destroyed by this. You when she grows up. She honors people here are banditos who have communities in Mexico her father whose hands, once don’t care if they go to jail. The where the men are all gone. They numb with cold in the desert, are government has to fi nd out who have come up here to work, to now scarred and leathery from a are the good ones and get rid of supposedly send money home. quarter-century of seven-day the bad ones.” That’s easier said They come up here and start a work weeks on construction sites than done, he admits, because second family. There are many, in the harsh Arizona elements. once deported, “they are just many stories about mothers with Aguilar says most Mexican going to try again. I came the three or four children, with no immigrants are like him, here to same way.” income whatsoever, in communi- work hard and make money to “I can’t blame them,” says Jeff ties with no men living in them, feed their families. “Go out to the Johnson, a Phoenix contractor or very few men. And it’s cer- freeway, and you will never see a who doubts that any guest tainly not helping our social Mexican out there holding up a worker participating in a U.S. structure here either.” sign,” he says. “You see the program would voluntarily “The law-abiding businessman Mexicans down at return to the home cannot compete,” says Republican the Home Depot The total K-12 expenditure for country after a Rep. Russell Pearce, chairman of saying they want illegal immigrants costs the three-year work the House Appropriations Com- to work. If you like states $7.4 billion a year, visit, as suggested mittee in the Arizona Legislature. to eat, you like to enough to buy a computer for in the guest-worker “I know a construction contractor work. I like to every junior high school proposal. “Why who once had 100 employees and work. I never went student nationwide. would I want to go now only has fi ve. He refuses to to school in back to a country hire people illegally. He pays his – Federation for American Mexico. I went to Immigration Reform where there’s noth- taxes. Who is standing up for him school here and ing left for me?” while he is being destroyed by learned some, but I didn’t stay. Graf says illegal immigration those who break the law? So it was pick and shovel for me.” easily costs the taxpayers of “There is not a week that goes He fi nds himself ironically Arizona $1 billion a year. “A lot by that I don’t talk to someone in concerned about his family’s of them came up to work in those my district who is leaving security amid the changing plants (built near the border after because they can’t take it any- complexion of illegal immigra- the passage of the North Ameri- more. The neighborhoods have tion in his part of the city. can Free Trade Agreement),” Graf changed. They have become “When I go down to the (grocery says. “That was the magnet. Now violent. This isn’t about race. store), at times I don’t feel good. those jobs are leaving and going This is about a culture that is And I am Mexican. They’ll steal to China or Indonesia. Where do destroying America, and we had whatever they want. Before, you the workers go? Do they go back better quit pandering to it.”

22 August 2004 The American Legion Magazine More Accurate than Einstein’s Theory The classic watch built with German precision to 1 billionth of a second

here is a new super-accurate government analog watch, we were truly excited. the times for landings and take offs or when the Tdevice that gives you a perfect use for atomic The EMC2 features precise atomic time with an train is leaving the station. If punctuality and accu- theory.The US government has engineered the automatic Standard time and Daylight Saving Time racy matter, then this watch was built for you. most ingenious, most accurate clock in the world, adjustment. It will adjust for leap years and even We’re still perfecting Einstein’s theory.We the new F-1 U.S.Atomic Clock in Boulder, leap seconds! A breakthrough in technology at a must apologize that our Stauer EMC2 Atomic Colorado. Our extraordinary new Stauer EMC2 breakthrough price. Watch loses 1 second every 20,000,000 years. watch uses this clock to report the exact time The large numeric markers are luminescent Our scientists are working diligently to correct from this remarkable cesium fission clock. So you and extremely easy to read so the watch is this problem; but in the interim if you are not are on time…all the time.This amazing timepiece perfect for low light situation.The EMC2 is thrilled with the design and the accuracy of the will gain or lose only one second over a twenty water-resistant to 5 atms as well.The small EMC2, return it in the next 30 days for a full million-year period. It is that accurate! readout shows you the date and has a digital refund of the purchase price. This perfectly tuned technological invention second counter.This watch is rugged enough to This watch is not available in stores and it is now available for UNDER $100. And you’ll take to the gym but handsome enough to wear comes with our 30 day money-back guarantee. never have to set this watch…the hands set to the boardroom or out to dinner.The design- If you’re not completely satisfied with the themselves. Just push one of the buttons and you ers built this watch for those who prefer their accuracy, simply return the watch for the full are synchronized with the F-1 and the hands of watches to be practical and sharp-looking rather purchase price. the watch move to the exact time position.The than overrated and overpriced. Stauer EMC2 exceeds the accuracy of any Swiss How can it be so accurate? The new F-1 Not Available in Stores luxury automatic so you can be more accurate clock uses laser beams to measure the photons Call now to take advantage of this and keep most of your money in your wallet… emitted from the cesium atom to measure the limited offer. not on your wrist. resonance frequency. Stauer EMC2 Analog Atomic Watch There are some The operation of atomic This laser-cooling clock Three EXACT Payments of $33 +S&H unattractive plastic digi- precisionprecision depends on an makes it about 20 times tal atomic watches on electrical oscillator regulated more accurate than any by the natural vibration 800-482-7995 the market, but when by the natural vibration other clock on earth. Promotional Code AAW172-02 our German movement frequencies of an atomic This timepiece is a maker made it possible system (as a beam of cesium great gift for anyone Please mention this when you call. To order by mail, please call for details. for us to break the atoms)atoms) accuracyaccuracy toto aboutabout oneone secondsecond who values precision and $100 price barrier with inin 2020 millionmillion years,years, making making itit thethe technology. Know pre- 14101 Southcross Drive W. a beautiful, classically most accurate clock ever made cisely when the markets Dept.AAW172-02 styled stainless steel open and close. Know Burnsville, Minnesota 55337

For fastest service, call toll-free 24 hours a day 800-482-7995 Visit us online at www.NextTen.com for the complete line of Stauer Watches, Jewelry and Collectibles “What you get is the third- different programs. And 40 they can feel pretty confi dent world country they ran away percent of the people in this about themselves. When do we from – nothing but poverty,” says country illegally came legally and stand up for Americans? When do Rusty Childress, owner and then just overstayed their visas. If we stand up for the law-abiding president of a Buick dealership in we have no method of controlling citizen? What is government’s No. a once-affl uent part of Phoenix legal immigration – and we really 1 job? Public safety. Protect our where poor immigrants, many don’t – there certainly isn’t a will liberties, our homes, our proper- undocumented, have dramati- or a want in the federal govern- ties, our families. They are not cally shifted the demographics. ment to try to stop illegal immi- doing that. They are failing “In the last 10 years, it has gone gration. It’s very miserably. We ought from 13 percent Hispanic to 43 frustrating.” Kristopher William Eggle to hold our politi- percent. That’s within a three- “Who is the was an Eagle Scout, cians accountable. mile range of the dealership.” missing person at the valedictorian of his Poll after poll shows He looks across his lot of party?” Johnson high-school class in the American public luxury sedans and leather-seated asks. “The federal Michigan and a collegiate supports securing SUVs, toward the vacant car lot government. They’re cross-country runner the border and next door. It used to be a Volvo not living up to their before he decided on a putting a stop to dealership. “Drug busts and drop responsibilities. As career in the National illegal immigration. houses and homicides …” the world gets Park Service. He worked There’s a lot that can Childress groans. “Employees are smaller, the problem as a ranger at Sleeping be done. We’re just scared to work for us. Customers becomes more Bear Dunes National not doing it.” are scared to do business with glaring. If we had Lakeshore in Michigan and In the meantime, us. It just keeps getting worse. another 9-11 in this at Canyonlands National as illegal immigra- The Democrats say there is no country, it would Park in Utah before tion metastasizes problem. The Republicans say wake people up. arriving in Arizona. From into more and more there is a problem, but we can’t Terrorism is waiting there, he went to Organ states – from the do anything about it.” to happen, and no Pipe Cactus National poultry plants of “There comes a point where one is stepping up.” Monument on the Tennessee to the you’ve had all you can take,” “A mer ic a ou g ht to textile mills of North Arizona-Mexico border, Pearce says. “The people we elect be mad,” says Pearce. Carolina and depart- into positions of public trust fail “In Arizona, our where he was shot to ment stores, motels to do their jobs. It’s not just a health-care welfare death Aug. 9, 2002, while and restaurants all federal issue. Once they cross budget – our Medic- in pursuit of a Mexican across middle that border, it’s our neighbor- aid – grew from 2001 drug smuggler attempting America – the hoods, our health-care system, when it was just over to move narcotics through consequences of our criminal justice system, our $200 million to the park. He was 28. complacency go educational system. It’s us who $1.2 billion in 2003. – Kriseggle.org largely unweighed. pay the price. This is the Trojan It’s on the way to We simply watch in horse of America.” bankrupting the state. This is an bewilderment as the swollen Pearce says Phoenix is now in invasion, not a trickle. And we bodies of 19 dead or dying the midst of a 60-percent rise in are sending mixed messages. We Central Americans are removed homicides directly related to tell them it’s illegal to come, but from an abandoned, unventilated human traffi cking. One particu- if you do come here, we’ll do trailer, left at a roadstop on a 91- lar incident just last November nothing about it, and there’s degree south-Texas day. We watch involved a bloody, running gun probably a reward for you at the from our living-room windows as battle on Interstate 10 that turned end of the trek. If I was in Mexico the coyotes gather again on the out to be a turf war between two and kept getting these messages, desert. And we cannot help but competing coyotes. “Several I would fi ll my backpack and wonder about all the U.S. troops people were shot and killed. Cars head north, too. deployed to watch the borders of were shot up, all about illegal “So who is responsible? Ameri- 100 or more countries around the alien smugglers and illegal ca has to share some of that world, including those of nations aliens. Every day, there is a new blame. Some, not all of it, be- that hate nothing more than the incident.” cause you have a corrupt govern- idea of America, while thousands “How do you tie this all up into ment in Mexico, which should be of aliens penetrate our own lines one nice, neat little package when fi xing its own problems. There every day, confi dent that eventu- you have federal legislators and should be an incentive to stay in ally their illegal trespasses will the White House saying they are their own country. There isn’t. be forgiven. x going to implement another new And because the economy here guest-worker program?” Graf has a bloated welfare system, and Jeff Stoffer is managing editor of asks. “They have to look at this the fact that we don’t enforce the The American Legion Magazine. more broadly, including all the immigration laws here, people various visas we have – 70-some know if they get past the border, Article design: Holly K. Soria

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TRANSCOM Commander, Gen. John W. Handy. Peter Newcomb

26 August 2004 The American Legion Magazine to Foxhole econd to military strength, the most visible proof of a nation’s superpower status Sis its global reach. No one has a farther reach than U.S. Transportation Command. Headquartered at Scott Air Force Base, Ill., TRANSCOM is responsible for moving every bullet, bed and bomb from the manufacturer to the end user – or, as TRANSCOM folks like to say, from factory to foxhole. Toss in the challenge of moving more than a million troops to and from a combat zone, and what you have is one of the most massive air, sea and ground movements in history. As TRANSCOM commander, Air Force Gen. John W. Handy manages a global interservice network of 1,365 aircraft, 87 Navy ships, 2,167 railcars and various Army ground vehicles – the largest transportation organization ever assembled. Last year alone, TRANSCOM troops were on the ground in 151 countries and fl ew cargo aircraft into even more. The American Legion Magazine recently spoke to Handy about TRANSCOM and its adaptation to a wartime environment.

The American Legion Magazine: Storm. Supplies often didn’t move means is that at handoff at the How has the Iraq war changed through the theater, and even airport or seaport, we don’t just TRANSCOM’s mission? when they did, they didn’t move deliver the shipment to the Gen. John Handy: Well, we are as fast as they should have. We particular theater and wash our certainly an awful lot busier than must get supplies to the point of hands and say it’s now somebody we have ever been in the past. consumption, and now we are. else’s problem. We are now The war in Iraq came right on the We’ve made tremendous im- accountable for the entire distri- heels of our efforts in Afghani- provements in technology and in- bution process. For the fi rst time stan, and the two endeavors – transit visibility with the imple- in the history of DoD, somebody combined with everything else mentation of plastic radio has been given the responsibility we do in the world – means that frequency labels. They not only to manage and own the distribu- our operations tempo is very, very tell us where the container or tion process. You don’t see high. The tempo has been surging pallet is located, they also tell us mountains of supplies now like so long at such a high level that it what items are in the containers. we did in Desert Storm and Desert now seems like normal opera- Another major improvement Shield because we have more tions. We are busier than we ever came on Sept. 16, 2003, when effi cient inter-theater delivery thought we would be, so it’s all a Secretary of Defense Donald systems. We know we still have learning process. We’ve had to Rumsfeld named TRANSCOM the problems with intra-theater completely re-engineer ourselves distribution process owner, or logistics and we’re working on right in the middle of the war to DPO. This made us the supply- that, too. We are becoming more become a lighter, leaner and a chain manager for the Depart- effi cient in the long haul, as well more capable force. ment of Defense. What that as the short haul.

TALM: Operation Desert TALM: TRANSCOM has Storm had serious logistics TRANSCOM by the Numbers studied how FedEx, Wal-Mart problems, with troops in the Between September 2003 and February 2004, and other corporations move fi eld physically opening TRANSCOM moved or delivered: their products from the factory shipping containers to deter- 1,258,517 passengers by air to store shelves. Tell us about mine their contents. The result: 876,739 tons of cargo by air these relationships. huge stockpiles of wasted 2.2 million tons of cargo by sea JH: We always look at supplies dubbed “iron moun- 296 ships carrying combat cargo commercial entities to see tains.” Is this still a problem? 1.79 billion gallons of fuel by ship how they do their job. There JH: We know that the intra- 222,595 containers worldwide are back-and-forth conversa- theater logistics supply chain 6,957 containers of rations tions; we have mutual really broke down in Desert 124 million meals benchmarks. Over the years,

August 2004 27 The American Legion Magazine interview we’ve had strong relationships and challenges. TRANSCOM TALM: What is your biggest with Federal Express and the U.S. deals with these challenges and challenge? Postal Service. We ask them how we do it incredibly well, but we JH: When you distill everything, they do it, and they ask us how continue to learn. it’s the people who make things we do it. happen. The challenge is making But there are big differences. TALM: What is TRANSCOM’s sure we do everything we can do When you ship a package by biggest achievement? to take care of them. Strip away FedEx, you know what’s in the JH: The designation as Distribu- all the aircraft and the intensity of package you’re shipping, but tion Process Owner was a major our operations, and all of our FedEx doesn’t need to know. They achievement. So is the 250,000- accomplishments, it is still the give you a number, and you can person troop rotation from Iraq people. We have to keep a clear track it along the way. In the that we’re going through right focus, not only on the military, system I operate, I not only have now. To paraphrase the chairman but on the families who are to give you that tracking number, of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Air behind them. I have civilians here but I also have to know exactly Force Gen. Richard B. Myers, this who have been on 12-hour shifts what’s in that package. And when is one of the greatest logistics for two years. We don’t know I put a shipping container on a feats in the history of the mili- what the future holds. We have to pallet, I also have to know where tary. I don’t know if that is the be postured to handle challenges it is on that pallet. Another big case, but I will tell you that it’s a that come down the pike. difference is that FedEx has a dramatic demonstration of the specifi c delivery spot, and the U.S. Transportation Command, TALM: The American Legion has receiver isn’t going to move. In the Air Mobility Command and about 2.8 million members. What our case, we have to get the their active-duty, reserve and can they do to help TRANSCOM shipment to, say, the supply civilian forces – all 162,000 of move forward? sergeant with the 101st Airborne them. They pull together and do JH: The Legion is a wonderful who is constantly moving around. things that ought to amaze group of Americans who rally for And when that supply sergeant everybody. We moved 1.2 million a variety of defense initiatives orders an MRE (Meals, Ready to people and 3 million tons of and programs. They have a great Eat), he knows what is coming cargo by sea and by air. At one reputation for doing this, and so I and where and when it will time last year, the Air Mobility ask them to keep on doing what arrive. Another big difference, of Command launched an aircraft they have been doing because it course, is that the FedEx guy isn’t every 12 minutes, 24 hours a day, works. We do outstanding things in a war zone getting shot at. seven days a week for 12 weeks, here, and that message needs to We’re all in the business of collectively fl ying more than 550 get out any way it can. x moving things, and we under- million miles. It’s almost incon- stand each other’s capabilities ceivable when you think about it. Article design: Holly K. Soria

TRANSCOM’s solution to ‘frustrated cargo’ Established in 1987 as one of nine unifi ed, or joint ever, a fi x was already in the works. In September, service, commands, the U.S. Transportation Command’s Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld ordered a mission is as simply stated as it is encompassing: “To mammoth reorganization of the DoD’s transportation provide air, land and sea transportation for the Depart- and supply system. That’s when he pointed his fi nger at ment of Defense both in time of peace and time of war.” Gen. John Handy and tabbed TRANSCOM as “distribution It’s a straightforward objective, but the global war on process owner.” The idea of appointing a single respon- terror stressed the mobility system from the beginning. sible manager originated with Handy, so when Rumsfeld In the fi rst month of the war, more than 90 percent of the gave the order, the general moved into action. Air Force’s C-5 and C-17 cargo aircraft were committed Technological improvements have given rise to to worldwide operations. At times, confusion reigned, important breakthroughs such as the advent of radio- and too many supplies were lost, wasted or misdirected frequency labels that are attached to shipping contain- once they reached the theater. ers. The plastic tags have embedded memory chips In December, TRANSCOM commander Gen. John W. containing information about where and when a ship- Handy told military and commercial transportation ment was picked up, what it contains, and where it is leaders at a logistics conference that the military lacked going. This helps TRANSCOM workers identify and locate an effi cient system to support the warfi ghter. As an the smallest item of a particular shipment at any time example, he pointed out that at one point last year Air during the movement. Force cargo aircraft had delivered 4,500 shipments to Now, supply sergeants will receive their order of MREs Dover Air Force Base, Del. Just one problem: the ship- and ammunition when and where they want them, ments lacked proper documentation. This is what the Air allowing troops in the fi eld to do a better job fi ghting the Force calls “frustrated cargo.” Nobody knew what it was, war. By extension, the increased effi ciency gives Ameri- who shipped it or where it was going. can taxpayers a bigger bang for their wartime bucks. By the time Handy addressed that conference, how- – Dan Allsup

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Pointof Man the Pentagon

Defense secretary believes ‘facts on ground’ determine troop levels.

U.S. Air Force 30 August 2004 The American Legion Magazine onald H. Rumsfeld is the most controversial secretary of defense Dsince Robert McNamara. His detractors, some of whom have called for his resignation, portray him as a stubborn, divisive leader who is unwilling to consider the advice of generals and other senior military offi cers. Rumsfeld’s supporters fi nd his bluntness refreshing and point to the quick military victories in Afghanistan and Iraq as crowning achievements in a long and distinguished career. While some say Rumsfeld has the diplomacy of a pit bull, no one considers him a shrinking violet. As Newsweek said during the Afghanistan war, “All eyes are on the straight-shooting former Navy pilot who is running the war.” Rumsfeld recently spoke with The American Legion Magazine.

The American Legion Magazine: The worst aspect is that the vocal and using terrorism as Is America winning the hearts Middle East peace process is not they are attempting to hijack … and minds of the Arab world? moving forward on a fast track. religion. And so there’s a civil Donald H. Rumsfeld: There are There are a great many people in war taking place, if you will, things going on in that part of that part of the world who within that religion – a struggle the world that are very positive, recognize the diffi culties for the – and that creates a lot of and there are things going on in Palestinian people, and there are hostility toward the West and that part of the world that are populations in those countries – toward different cultures, very negative. The result is a for whatever reason – (that) seem including the United States, the mixed picture. The encouraging to look to the United States as the country that is seen as the leader thing that is happening is that a nation that ought to be able to in the West. So it’s a mixed number of the states in the region solve that problem. Of course, the picture that I see out there … are beginning to provide oppor- reality is that it’s a problem that’s and it’s something that we need tunities to women. They are been there for many decades. It is to recognize and attempt to beginning to take steps to impossible for the United States support the moderates, who are establish parliament in various or really any collection of coun- in my view doing the right thing parts and to give the people a tries to grab both sides by the by trying to make progress. greater voice in the governance scruffs of the neck and push of their country. It’s uneven, but them together into an arrange- Q: We have seen a recent if one looks back over the past ment that they are not willing to increase in al-Qaida activity. fi ve or 10 years, it’s rather clear make themselves and not willing How important is it to capture or that that is the direction they are to live with. So you have that kill bin Laden? going. I personally think that is a taking place. A: Well, it would certainly be a very, very good thing. Countries The third thing I mention is good thing, but in my view it that don’t benefi t from the that we talk about the global war certainly would not end the brainpower, the energy, the on terror and the reason we do is problem of global terrorism or the creativity of some 50 percent of because terrorism is a weapon extremists and radicals that are their population have a future that’s being used across the attempting to destroy the state that is rather bleak. Countries globe in Bali, Madrid, Saudi system in the world. I don’t where the people don’t have a Arabia and the United States. No believe the capture of any single stake in the future don’t get the continent or country is safe from individual is going to be suffi cient commitment of the people to the it. I think another way to look at to deter and dissuade those that cause that (needs to be) done. I it is that there’s a global insur- are committed to imposing rule think that’s a good sign. Clearly gency taking place and terrorism by a handful of clerics over the in that regard the United States is being used as a weapon. And population throughout the globe. and Western countries are seen within … there’s a struggle as representative systems that between radicals and extremists, Q: Are we spread too thin in the provide protection for different vs. moderates. The extremists Middle East to repel possible religions, different ethnic groups undoubtedly represent a rela- Chinese or North Korean aggression? and certainly both sexes. tively small minority, but they’re A: The answer to your question is

August 2004 31 The American Legion Magazine interview not my answer, but it’s the answer higher level. We were in the result, your fi ne organization can from the Joint Chiefs and the folks middle of the crossover … that is do a lot to assist people in here that make military assess- to say the 115,000 troops were communities and neighborhoods ments. They periodically review leaving, and 115,000 were coming across the land to have that that question and ask, “Do we in over a six-month period, and personal contact and relationship have the capabilities to fulfi ll our the easiest way to do that would and understanding. strategy?” And that is to be able to be to just retain some of those contribute to homeland defense who were there. And so, I think it Q: Have the media and some and to be able to quickly defeat an was something like 18,000 or politicians blown the prison-abuse enemy in one part of the world 19,000 of the troops, many of scandal out of proportion, and does and simultaneously win decisively whom were volunteers but some it make it more diffi cult for the rest in another part of the world. And of whom were clearly not, were of the troops to do their jobs? our repeated looks at those issues asked to extend in Iraq for up to A: You know, when I talk to have always indicated that we do 90 days and tours up to 120 days, military commanders over there have those capabilities. as I recall, and the hope is … and I go over to visit and meet correction, the fact is that to the with the troops, I come away Q: Why extend tours in Iraq if we extent that that higher level is with a feeling of conviction and have enough people? going to be needed beyond that confi dence on their part, absolute A: The facts on the ground are period of time we would bring conviction that we cannot be what determine the number of folks in from the rest of the world defeated on the battlefi eld; that troops that the military com- to replace them so they would not our troops are doing a wonderful manders feel is appropriate. Gen. have to be extended again. As the job at not just providing security Tom Franks is the one who came president said repeatedly, we but assisting with schools and up with the number that he intend to provide the military hospitals and clinics and essen- believed was necessary to engage commanders the level of forces tial services and so many other in the major combat portion of it, they believe are necessary to do aspects of life. I come back here, and he proved to be right. He and the job in Iraq. So it’s possible that and I turn on the television and Gen. (John) Abizaid are the ones the number could go down. It’s read the press and you feel hand- who came up with the estimates possible that it could stay the wringing and despair … pessi- of troop levels – U.S., coalition same. It’s also possible that it mism about the whole thing and Iraqi – that they believe could go up. because of the impression people would be appropriate to deal with get from reading and watching the situation as they thought. As Q: What role would you like to see television. Now, there’s a dispar- we have moved along closer The American Legion play ity between the two, and it’s a toward passing sovereignty to the regarding national security? glaring disparity. And the Iraqi government, it’s rather clear A: Well, I think The American question is, “Where is the truth?” that the terrorists and the foreign Legion and other veterans groups in those two different pictures of elements and former regime do a wonderful job in helping the what is taking place over there. I activists – the Fedayeen Saddam American people understand the think part of the problem here is and the like – decided to step up role of the armed services that if people thought about their activities … We’ve even historically, understand the role history, if they thought about found correspondence that of the armed services today and what happened in Japan after affi rms that. That is to say that the truly wonderful role the men World War II, what happened in communications among terrorists and women are doing, not just in Germany after World War II … have said they simply have to step Iraq but in Afghanistan, the horn What about these other countries up the activities during this of Africa and many other places when they tried to move from a period because they’ll have less around the globe, including the vicious dictatorship to a repre- excuse to be engaged in hostility Balkans. We’re living in a time sentative system? What about the against the Iraqi people after the when many Americans never United States when we made that Iraqi people actually have sover- served in the military and some path? (Thomas) Jefferson was eignty. So when Gen. Abizaid may not even know people in the talking about the move from looked at that, he said that he military. When I was a young where we were, toward a democ- thought the 112,000 or 113,000 man, everybody for the most part racy when he said, ‘We ought not U.S. forces, coupled with the knew people in the military. My to expect to be transported on a coalition forces, and the current father served in the Navy, and I feather bed.’ Never in history has state of play with respect to the served in the Navy as a pilot, and it been easy. It’s always been Iraqi forces, was probably not my dad had been in World War II tough. It’s always cost lives. And suffi cient and he asked that out on a carrier, and our family frankly, there’s always been another – I believe it was 15,000 was steeped in the importance of ugliness and diffi culty, real tough to 20,000 – troops be available the armed services and the role diffi culty, and that’s what we’re during the period that he antici- they play. Today, fewer people seeing in Iraq. That’s what we’ve pated hostilities would be at a have those experiences and, as a seen in Afghanistan. But it

32 August 2004 The American Legion Magazine Rumsfeld peers through the window of a CH-47E Chinook helicopter as it fl ies over Iraq. U.S. Air Force works. Think of the progress be able to fi ght and win a strug- it harder? Yes. But does our that’s been made. It’s dramatic. gle like this, which is a tough country have a suffi ciently strong My gut is that if you think about one. It’s a tough business, and it rib cage to get through this what the alternatives are to what just breaks your heart to see period? I think we can. we’re doing … The alternatives Americans giving their lives and are civil war, anarchy, breaking coming home wounded in this Q: Is there anything else you would the country into pieces, religious struggle. On the other hand, I like to say to America’s veterans? or ethnic cleansing or some type think that despite 24-hour news A: Well, I would. I was at Arling- of new Saddam Hussein taking and the seven-days-a-week ton (National Cemetery) Memo- over the country. bombardment … we’re going to rial Day. There were so many I was just thinking about get through this period, and we’ll veterans. And I was at the D-Day and the anniversary. This look back on it and say, “Isn’t that dedication of the World War II is the fi rst war where we’ve had amazing?” Notwithstanding the Memorial. I had a chance to talk 24-hour news, seven-days-a-week disparity between what is actu- to a lot of veterans, and the newscasting and the constant ally taking place over there and dedication they feel for this bombardment of negative im- the impressions that were left country is deep and real. I have ages. Look what D-Day would here at home, we got through it. been told by a number of them have looked like. The gliders – I think that’s what will happen. that as they moved around Wash- many of them crashed and But you asked, “Is it tough?” You ington, D.C., over the weekend, landed in the wrong location. bet it’s tough. Is it discouraging? people bought their dinners … People were blocked at the I was with a young soldier, oh, walked up to them in the street bottom of Pointe du Hoc. (Think I guess he was about 24 or 25. and shook their hands or didn’t of) the criticisms. They would Two weeks he has been back charge them for cab rides, or have been called back for con- from Iraq, and he was so proud of whatever, as a way to tell them gressional hearings. It all would what’s going on there and so how important a role they have been on television. stunned by what is going on here played. The spirit, decency and You asked if it was disconcert- and what he sees and reads and patriotism that they bring to our ing or something to that effect. I hears and the impression here. society is critically important and think this is a real test for us. The same has been true of critically needed. x First, I have a lot of confi dence in congressmen and senators that the American people. I have got a have gone over there. They’ve Interview: John Raughter feeling that they have a very good come back and noted the dramat- center of gravity and that we will ic contrast. Now, does that make Article design: Doug Rollison

August 2004 33 The American Legion Magazine commentary

Compassionat Death’s Door

BY KEITH E. RENNINSON

For a father and son, hospice workers provide peace amid grief.

Ross Jones om endured a lot in walked in silence to the three months: two parking lot. Leaving her that Mthree-week hospital fi rst night was hard. stays, several bumps on the The next day, I learned head from falls, countless more about hospice care. tests, X-rays, MRIs, catheters The staff on most shifts and injections. It was late on consists of two or three a hot, humid August after- registered nurses, several noon when Dad and I licensed practical nurses, walked into the hospice; and two or three nurses’ Mom arrived earlier in an aides. These professionals ambulance from our rural administer medications; take Colorado home. blood pressure, pulse and In her room, a team of temperature; and monitor nurses and aides helped Ross Jones patients’ conditions. On Mom into bed. Fear and weekdays, one or two confusion showed on her 84-year- I was losing my mother, and I felt volunteers assist by answering old face. She knew why she was out of control, sad and scared. the phone, washing dishes and here. Her dark, weary eyes darted As I looked around Mom’s assisting with patient care. The from one attendant to another as room, I found a private bath- hospice has a kitchen where she tried to comprehend what room, a double-door closet with three different chefs rotate was happening: the taking of drawers, a 24-inch television, an during the month, catering to blood pressure and heart rate; armchair and a recliner. On the patients’ various diets. questions relating to medication, barren, beige walls were two oil Early on the third day, a social current condition and health paintings of landscapes with worker named Ann took Dad and history; the storing of her clothes children at play and, oddly, a me aside and explained how the and personal items; and explana- large, round black-and-white hospice functions during the tions of her new daily routine in clock. One side of the room was process of dying. this strange and frightening all windows with a view of trees “Realize that lifesaving tech- place. We would make eye and bushes surrounding the niques will not be used; instead, contact, and I tried to appear facility. Amid the bushes sat a methods will be initiated to help reassuring. Dad looked at me, clear, tubular, six-seat bird Clara die as comfortably and slowly shaking his head. feeder. Mom loved birds, and peacefully as possible,” Ann Mom suffered severe diarrhea over the next two months, that softly said. “This can take a few and vomiting from the side feeder entertained her with days or a number of weeks. It’s effects of 15 different drugs. She visiting black birds, sparrows all up to Clara; she will go when had lost more than 10 pounds. and chickadees. she is ready. We will do every- Congestive heart failure wasn’t The nurse on duty assured us thing we can to make her com- allowing enough blood to exit they would do everything to fortable during the process.” her heart, so she was pale and make Mom comfortable but that Hard words to hear, though puffy from water retention. she would be confused by her deep down I felt relief. This The room’s bright overhead new surroundings for a few days. would be a process involving all light seemed dim as the RN on I felt a strange sort of physical of us, not just Dad and I alone. duty asked a multitude of ques- and mental tunnel vision occur An only child, I knew Dad would tions about Mom’s health history, as I tried to take it all in. lean on me. allergies and current problems. The level of activity surround- Ann took us on a guided tour of The pressure of the moment ing us seemed so busy and the modern, L-shaped building. made me feel small and helpless. strange. With all the relatives Situated in the elbow of the “L” I could see the deep sadness and visiting the hospice’s other 17 were staff offi ces, storage rooms, concern in Dad’s eyes. He was patients, we felt crowded. It was the kitchen, a dining room, and a losing his best friend of 59 years. dark and late when Dad and I large living room with a fi replace,

August 2004 35 The American Legion Magazine couches and telephones. Each wing had nine separate rooms, showers, and linen and supply closets. A waiting room was at the end of each wing for visitors to rest, make phone calls, watch TV or sleep. Near the main entrance, a large aquarium housed a wide assort- ment of colorful tropical fi sh. On the opposite wall was a sculpture of an aspen tree with gold and silver leaves, each imprinted with the name of a patient who had lived and died in the hospice. Over the course of the next eight weeks, Dad and I spent many hours each day with Mom. We took her for wheelchair rides around the hospice grounds, where she could smell the roses, talk with the resident rabbit living in bushes near the rear entrance, and soak up what little life had to offer in this limited space. One day, Dad took Mom for a car ride to their favorite part of Chatfi eld Reservoir, south of Denver. They watched the birds and boaters, enjoying the fresh Ross Jones air. After a while, they had a bite of lunch and drove to our small town, Louviers, 15 miles further hours, arriving and sometimes something for you?” south. Mom wanted to see it one leaving when it’s dark. “Oh, yes,” Mom said, eager to last time. Each morning, a nurse woke be entertained. “I’d love to go inside to visit my Mom with a hug and kiss on the Wade played “Amazing Grace,” home, but I won’t want to leave,” cheek, opening the curtains and “Rocky Mountain High” and a Mom told Dad, a tear trickling bringing a hot breakfast. Every few others. He learned from an down her withered cheek. few days she showered in a aide that Mom and Dad celebrat- We got to know the hospice specially prepared bathroom. The ed their 58th wedding anniver- personnel by name, hearing aides helped her bathe and sary the day before, so he played about their families, pets, homes, washed her hair. On alternate a few more songs Mom request- aspirations and goals. All wore Mondays, a volunteer beautician ed. Dad sat next to Mom, and tennis shoes, smocks and the gave haircuts or perms to help they held hands as he sang. occasional sweater when the air female patients feel pretty. Seeing Mom so happy and sad at conditioning worked too well. Also on Mondays, Wade came the same time was diffi cult, but They came to know the little in. Wade is a large man in his Wade made Mom and Dad feel quirks of Mom’s personality; her late 40s, with a bushy mustache, special. That was what counted. likes and dislikes became a part whose mother and wife died at Other patients were more of their daily routine. They this hospice. Ever since, he has critically ill than Mom. The treated her as if she belonged to been a volunteer, playing his average stay in a hospice is less their own families. acoustic guitar and singing for than a week, so we would see I still can’t fathom how these the patients. If you can only hum new patients arrive, relatives men and women function, a few bars or know just the come to visit and sometimes, by confronting death on a daily words of an old song, Wade can the next day, the room empty basis as they do. They empty play it. Mom had been at the once more. Seeing this was bedpans, change soiled night- hospice only three days when diffi cult for Mom. gowns, mop bathroom fl oors, Wade fi rst appeared at her door. Knowing she needed some- change bed linens, deliver food “Good afternoon, Clara,” he thing to do, Mom came up with a and medications, and bathe said. “My name is Wade, and I little job of her own. She took patients, all with a smile and love to sing and play my guitar sheets of paper from a small occasional joke. They work long for the patients. May I play notepad and wrote biblical

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passages or positive greetings on ers, stocking caps, scarves, vests back in the squeaky leather each one, then attached sealing and slippers for Mom and me. By recliner next to her bed. stickers of fl owers, puppies or the time our stay at the hospice Just before midnight, I laid balloons, and asked the chef or ended, Dad had knitted booties awake watching Mom sleep and an aide to hand them out to other for 35 staff members. He later breathe. At that time of night, the patients. I watched her arthritic calculated that he knitted almost hospice is quiet, and the lights hands struggle to scribble the 140,000 stitches in two months. are dimmed. All I could hear was words, but she was determined to You can’t help but become her breathing, so rhythmic, yet help the other patients feel better. close to people like those who strained and raspy. Suddenly, I Over time, the staff has worked at our hospice: the short, noticed she was laboring, almost learned to recognize the signs of bubbly aide who giggled all the gasping. I rushed to get Dad. imminent death, things the rest time; the quiet but deeply caring When we returned, Dad sat down of us wouldn’t notice. In Mom’s nurse who kneeled beside the next to her and took her hand in last 10 days, they told us of the bed to hold Mom’s hand and talk his. She took four quiet, shallow changes taking place. They about God; the pair of nurses breaths and slipped softly away. hugged us and often placed a who had worked together so long Slowly, the late-night staff all hand on Dad’s shoulder when they provided care in concert, entered the room to say goodbye. they noticed the tears rolling without speaking a word; the Some cried; others were quiet. down his cheeks. Some stayed at chef who made lunch for Dad They hugged and consoled Dad, an arm’s length to safeguard when she knew he hadn’t eaten; me and one another before themselves from the pain of loss. and the male nurse who lived in leaving to care for other patients. Others teared up themselves. the mountains and shared stories Dad and I faced long rides to Dad and I served in the mili- of seeing deer or fox on his drives our separate homes that night, tary during wars of our youths to work. They all acted with love but the ordeal was over. Without and have seen death up close. and compassion, knowing what the women and men at the Before Vietnam, I worked as an must soon happen. hospice, it would have been orderly at St. Luke’s Hospital in After two days of constant pain much more diffi cult. x Denver while attending college, for Mom, the staff signaled that seeing death on a regular basis. the end was near. She went to Keith E. Renninson is a freelance But this was different. This was sleep one night and remained in writer living in Littleton, Colo. my mother. It was so close. a coma-like state the entire next He may be contacted at Time became crucial, so I day. Dad and I decided we [email protected]. would bring my laptop computer wouldn’t leave that night. About to work while Mom slept. Years 10:30 p.m., he curled up on a sofa Illustrations: Ross Jones earlier, Dad had learned to knit in a visitor’s area at the end of and made many colorful sweat- the hall near Mom’s room. I laid Article design: King Doxsee

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BY ARTHUR G. SHARP the White House. During his mise, Maine was tenure, the fi rst stamped enve- admitted to the n 2000, nine years before the lopes and perforated postage United States as a bicentennial of President stamps were used. He managed non-slave state, ILincoln’s birth, the federal to get arrested, while an incum- while Missouri came government established the bent, for running over an old in as a slave state. Of Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial woman with his horse. The case course, the issue is a lot Commission Act in order to was dropped due to insuffi cient more complicated – as was educate people about the 16th U.S. evidence. Pierce was the only the Kansas-Nebraska Act, which president and his place in history. elected president who sought but declared that settlers of new Paradoxically, the 200-year did not win his party’s nomina- territories could “form and anniversary of the birth of another tion for a second term. regulate their domestic institu- former U.S. president, Franklin Pierce’s presidency was not tions in their own way.” Basically, Pierce, falls in 2004, and no one in totally without merit, however. He they could choose whether or not the nation’s capital is paying much assumed offi ce at a time when the to allow legal slavery. Pierce left attention. Perhaps that is to be United States was aggressively offi ce long before the debate was expected for a president some pursuing a policy of expansion resolved, but he had other issues people mistake for a car. through purchase, war or annexa- to deal with in the meantime. I asked 73 college students to tion, and as it engaged in a One was the Treaty of Kana- name which of four Pierces national debate over slavery. It is gawa, signed March 31, 1854, served as the 14th president of to be expected, then, that Pierce’s which established peace, friend- the United States: Pierce Arrow signifi cant activities involved ship and trade between the United (a car), Jimmy Pearsall (a former expansion and slavery issues. States and Japan. Actually, Pierce major-league baseball player), just happened to be in the right Pierce Brosnan (an actor best Presidential Challenges. Pierce’s place at the right time. Negotia- known for his roles as James fi rst notable act as president was tions had begun during the Bond) or Franklin Pierce. The car the Dec. 30, 1853, Gadsden presidency of Millard Fillmore, won. The correct answer, Frank- Purchase. The United States Pierce’s predecessor. Japan was lin Pierce, drew the fewest votes. bought from Mexico, for $10 mil- not exactly enthralled about some The confusion pretty well sums lion, a 29,640 square-mile piece of of the conditions, which involved up his one term as president from land in the southern parts of future U.S. demands. Eventually, 1853 to 1857. current-day Arizona and New the two countries went to war, Pierce’s lack of recognition Mexico, which still marks the albeit 87 years later. A rule of should not be surprising, consid- boundary in that region between thumb applied to Pierce’s activi- ering some of his claims to fame the two countries. ties in offi ce: he created problems as president are hardly political Early in 1854, Pierce signed into that eventually led to wars. milestones. For example, he was law the Kansas-Nebraska Act, Much as the challenges present- the fi rst U.S. president to deliver which effectively repealed the ed by the Kansas-Nebraska Act his inaugural address completely Missouri Compromise of 1821. fi gured into the onset of the Civil from memory, and the fi rst to This set in motion a string of War, the furor over the ambitions have a Christmas tree, central events that signifi cantly contrib- among some U.S. expansionists to heating, and a bathroom with uted to the onset of the Civil War. acquire Cuba by any means hot and cold running water in Under the terms of the compro- possible indirectly led to the

40 August 2004 The American Legion Magazine commentary

Courtesy Cigarlabelgazette.com

Spanish-American War of 1898. It to Great Britain and France to dent country; the United.States started as the seizure of a U.S. develop a plan to wrest Cuba never did acquire it. merchant vessel and escalated away from Spain. The result of The Ostend Manifesto was the into an international incident, a the Oct. 9, 1854, meeting in climactic event in Pierce’s presi- minor scandal for Pierce and a Ostend, Belgium, was the secret dency, which was just as well. He potential war with Spain. Ostend Manifesto to the State was not happy in Washington and On Feb. 28, 1854, Cuban Department suggesting the “buy” for good reason. After all, his authorities seized a U.S. mer- or “war” options. private life was not much better chant ship, the Black Warrior, in Folks in the northern states than his political life. How did Havana’s harbor, allegedly learned about the dispatch and this man ever get to be president because of an error in the labeled it as nothing more than a of the United States? Even the manifest. At the time, Spain ruse for the government to years leading up to his election owned Cuba. Naturally, Ameri- expand slavery by acquiring the often resembled a comedy of cans – particularly the expan- island. The government de- errors – and terrors. sionists – did not take kindly to murred but withdrew the mani- the seizure. Hawks in Congress festo. Needless to say, Spain was Road to Presidency. Nothing in strongly suggested that the not too happy about the situa- Pierce’s early life suggested he country should go to war with tion, either. Consequently, Pierce would become president. He was Spain and take Cuba by force, or dropped his plans to acquire born in Hillsborough, N.H., on buy it. The situation became an Cuba. Once again, he had Nov. 23, 1804. Eventually, he unwanted problem for Pierce. unwittingly created a situation attended Bowdoin College in Pierce authorized his minister that would remain unresolved for Maine. Pierce was not exactly a to Spain, Pierre Soulé, to offer years. It wasn’t until 1898 that model student. During his $130 million in exchange for Spain relinquished Cuba as the second year, he had the lowest Cuba. He directed Soulé to meet result of the Spanish-American grades in his class. However, he fi rst with the American ministers War. Cuba became an indepen- was determined, if nothing else.

August 2004 41 The American Legion Magazine commentary

He began taking his studies Buchanan, primarily because seriously and rebounded to they could not reach a consensus graduate third in his class. He on any of the other three. His returned to New Hampshire after nomination did not please many graduation to study law and people, especially Jane and their pursue a career in politics. sole remaining son, Benjamin, Pierce Pierce experienced a rapid rise upon whom she doted. But, Remembered in his political career. He served Pierce wanted to assume the in the New Hampshire legislature presidency, so he and Jane visited Franklin Pierce College, Rindge, N.H. as a representative from 1829 to Newport, R.I., for a short vaca- Franklin Pierce Bicentennial Web page, 1832, including two years as tion and to discuss his future. www.franklinpierce.ws speaker. Then it was on to While there, Jane received a “Franklin Pierce: Defi ning Democracy in America” Exhibition, New Hamp- Washington to serve as a con- letter from Benjamin in which he shire Historical Society’s Tuck Library, gressman from 1833 to 1837 and said he hoped his father would July 3, 2004 to Feb. 6, 2005. as a senator from 1837 to 1842. not be elected. The voters disap- Two-volume biography. “Franklin Nothing seemed to curb his rise pointed him: Pierce won the Pierce: New Hampshire’s Favorite Son” in politics, not even his wife, election handily. (Plaidswede, June 2004); “Franklin Pierce: Jane Means Appleton, whom he Pierce earned 254 electoral Martyr to the Union” (2006). married against her family’s votes to only 42 for his closest wishes Nov. 10, 1834. opponent and former Army Mrs. Pierce was not exactly a commander, Winfi eld Scott. A Convention. The party rejected supportive political wife. In fact, third contender, Free Soil candi- him because of his close associa- when the Democratic Party named date John P. Hale, failed to attract tion with the slavery issue. He Pierce as its presidential candidate much interest. No doubt Pierce was perceived as a pro-slavery in 1852, she fainted. That was not knew the feeling. After all, he was president, based in part on his the fi rst time she had placed a the Democrats’ fourth choice for stance in the Nebraska-Kansas black cloud over his political the nomination. Nevertheless, situation, and on his tacit recog- plans. That cloud, combined with Pierce, the dark horse, crossed the nition of William Walker as Pierce’s personal fl aws, often fi nish line fi rst. The rest is history president of Nicaragua, a contro- threatened his ambitions. – albeit all-but-forgotten history. versial fi gure who set himself up A heavy drinker, Pierce suf- as a dictator in 1855 and prompt- fered from depression. Eventu- Road to Obscurity. Pierce’s time ly opened Nicaragua to slavery. ally, his drinking contributed to in Washington was anything but That was a bit much for the his death. Jane and Franklin had happy. First, another major Democrats. They nominated three children. Their fi rst died tragedy affl icted the family. On James Buchanan for president; he three days after birth. Jan. 6, 1853, they were traveling replaced Pierce in 1857. Shortly thereafter, in 1842, their by train to the funeral of a family Franklin Pierce returned to second son died of typhus. That friend when the car in which they New Hampshire after his term same year, Pierce retired from his were riding derailed. Thirteen- expired and lived out his life in position as a senator due in part to year-old Benjamin, their only relative obscurity. He died Oct. 8, Jane’s distaste for the political life. remaining child, died in the 1869, in Concord, N.H., from He exchanged his political career wreck. That put a damper on the cirrhosis of the liver. Unlike for a military uniform to fi ght in inauguration ceremonies, which Lincoln, Pierce’s memory is the Mexican War. Jane did not attend. They had no nearly forgotten, and his life is Pierce was a capable soldier. He inaugural ball. But that did not often overlooked or misunder- rose to the rank of brigadier stop Pierce from throwing a curve stood, even by the people in his general, serving under Gen. at the swearing-in ceremony. home state. Winfi eld Scott. Pierce was wound- Pierce became the fi rst presi- New Hampshire did not erect a ed during the war, after which he dent in U.S. history to refuse to statue to him until 1914, and no returned to New Hampshire to swear the presidential oath. For Pierce presidential library resume his law practice. He and unexplained religious reasons, he exists. The bicentennial of Jane lived there happily for a simply affi rmed it, not under Pierce’s birth is an opportunity to while, until the siren of politics oath – a peculiar way for a reopen the book on this enigmat- lured him back to Washington, president to begin his term in ic man who may not have been somewhat by default. offi ce. Then again, little was the most successful president in The Democratic Party could not conventional about Pierce’s U.S. history – but at least he was settle on a candidate for president presidency. a president, not a car. x in 1852. The party’s convention Pierce had a knack for lining was a bit contentious. Finally, on himself up on the wrong side of Arthur G. Sharp is a freelance the 49th ballot, the Democrats controversial issues. That pen- writer living in Connecticut. selected Pierce over Lewis Cass, chant led to his defeat at the Stephen Douglas and James Democratic Party’s 1856 National Article design: Doug Rollison

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Mandatory funding would fuel the 18-year ride to CARES.

BY PAUL MORIN the veteran health-care paradigm, that funding is in the 2005 decentralizing more of it and budget request. Future appropria- he CARES process isn’t yet forging new and expanded tions will depend on lobbying. over, nor should it be. In partnerships with outside provid- That’s familiar territory. Veterans Tfact, it’s barely lifted off. ers, medical-school affi liates and will inevitably need to remind The decision announced in Las the Department of Defense. elected offi cials that CARES is an Vegas on May 7 by VA Secretary Eighteen years is a long- addition to the VA budget, not an Anthony Principi gave long- distance projection, roughly the offset. Such reminders are awaited shape to the massive VA same span that connected World necessary when funding comes health-care overhaul envisioned War II with the Vietnam War. In on a discretionary basis. by the process known as CARES that amount of time – the Korean As dollars come and go without (Capital Asset Realignment for War is a good example of this – clear regard for demand changes, Enhanced Services). The decision much can happen to affect actual cost of care or infl ation, is a bold step toward reducing predictions for veteran health- veterans will have to battle for the future cost of operating VA’s care demand. Wars can happen. future funds to build hospitals galaxy of health-care properties. And wars change the numbers. and clinics, as proposed by But it is only a step, and an The CARES package is based CARES, in the years ahead, while early one, in a journey VA on a demand peak in about 2012, not sacrifi cing patient care. anticipates will lead America’s followed by a 10-year decline. Veterans need to defend veterans to the year 2022. By that Army Chief of Staff Peter Schoo- against unbridled outsourcing. In time, according to CARES, the maker says today's war on doing so, they can remind elected annual cost to manage excess terrorism may “never go away in offi cials and the public of VA’s space in the VA system will have our lifetime.” So, the predicted role in civil defense and as a fallen from $3.4 billion to $750 decline is by no means a lock. backup for the U.S. military. Let million a year. Of course, the What if hostilities escalate? What us not forget – as feasibility bigger prize will be a more if there’s a draft? What if chemi- studies weigh the pros and cons effi cient system where dollars cal or biological weapons create of shrinking VA’s footprint and otherwise wasted on empty build- complicated new medical issues sending more care to the private ings and sprawling compounds for soldiers and veterans? Bu- sector – that these hospitals are will become available to pay for reaucrats have wrongly predicted America’s safety net in the event doctors, nurses and medicine. future veteran numbers and of a natural disaster or attack on CARES envisions a wide range needs since “the war to end all our own soil. of new construction projects, wars” concluded in 1918. More than 100 major construc- consolidations, closures, mission The task of adequately funding tion projects are identifi ed in the changes and plans for increased the VA health-care system of the CARES decision. Included are use of outside contractors. As future is likewise daunting and new medical centers in Las those initiatives materialize fi lled with variables. According Vegas, Denver and Orlando, Fla., between now and 2022, a new VA to CARES, VA calculates that it along with 156 new outpatient health-care system will emerge. needs $6.1 billion in the next clinics listed as priorities before Aside from the bricks and mortar, half-dozen years to rebuild the 2012. These are forward-thinking CARES will accelerate a shift in system. Only about one-fi fth of illustrations of VA’s commitment

44 August 2004 The American Legion Magazine VA Secretary Anthony J. Principi, fl anked by top leaders of veterans service organizations from around the country, including American Legion National Commander John Brieden, (seated, right) announces the long-awaited CARES decision in Las Vegas. Las Vegas is one of three cities scheduled to receive a new VA medical center, according to the CARES roadmap. Jeff Stoffer to improve services in many We will make sure construction effi ciencies of a well-run ma- areas of America and to bring is done at the new sites before chine, rather than waiting health care closer to veterans. any changes are made.” for 2022. The secretary’s decision refl ects The American Legion likewise Discretionary funding created a refreshing willingness by VA to holds as an inviolate principle this problem. Discretionary reconsider its original script. The that contracted care is rarely the funding failed to keep up with August 2003 Draft National right solution. In dozens of demand growth and gave VA a CARES Plan, devised by VA, communities, according to patient backlog two years ago of recommended closing or dramati- CARES, demand is expected to more than 300,000 who waited cally changing missions for 23 increase sharply in the next few up to two years to see VA doctors. facilities in the system. The May 7 years, especially in the area of The formula suspended Priority decision reined in many of those long-term care and mental Group 8 veterans whose eligibility ideas after veterans and non- health. However, much to the for care came by an act of Con- veterans in affected communities disappointment of The American gress in 1996 but was struck voiced outrage last fall. Legion, the CARES analysis did down by Secretary Principi in To his credit, Secretary Principi not take into consideration VA’s 2003, because the lines were too listened to those who feared current capacity to provide long and money too short. CARES was a prescription for a mental health care or long-term In Las Vegas on May 7, the lesser VA. He also listened to the care services when envisioning secretary said he is willing to National CARES Commission, future demand of those services. discuss how mandatory funding and often asked for further The CARES decision states might work. It’s obvious that studies rather than fi re sales. clearly that in many affected discretionary funding doesn’t. In the end, CARES is a better areas, the rise in demand can be Today, we stand with the product because veterans got met through contracted care. roadmap known as CARES in involved and stayed involved. Veterans cannot help but think our hands, looking 18 years into Still, it is far from perfect. they are staring at the slippery an unknowable future, wonder- The American Legion remains slope of a voucher system, in ing how many new veterans concerned on many fronts. which VA pays others to care for America will produce, and how Realizing that some closures and sick or disabled U.S. veterans. The much money will be available to consolidations have gone back Legion opposes vouchered care. meet their needs when they into study, others are approved – CARES would not have been come home. CARES now must Gulfport, Miss., Brecksville, Ohio, necessary at all if VA health care pass from planning rooms to and Pittsburgh’s Highland Drive were funded according to a construction sites, and it must do Division, for instance. Veterans in mandatory, instead of discretion- so with the best possible care for those communities now must ary, formula. With mandatory veterans in mind every inch of demand fulfi llment of the prom- funding, VA medical centers the way. The journey is only ise the secretary made in Las would not have to use capital- beginning. x Vegas: “I am committed to improvement funds to pay for mitigating any perceived adverse doctors, nurses and medicine. If Paul Morin of Massachusetts is impacts. VA will not interrupt funding were adequate all along, chairman of The American services at current facilities until a titanic overhaul to bring Legion’s Veterans Affairs & we can provide care at an alter- facilities up to date would not be Rehabilitation Commission. nate site of comparable quality. necessary now. Veterans would That’s just an inviolate principle. be benefi ting today from the Article design: Holly K. Soria

August 2004 45 The American Legion Magazine under the radar

Taxes and tithes earning more than $10 million A study published by The donated over 1 percent; and Chronicle of Philanthropy reveals those in between donated less that wealthy Americans – those than half of 1 percent to with incomes between $200,000 charitable causes. and $10 million – “give less NewTithing isn’t trying to generously to charity than both fuel the fi res of class warfare. people who are richer and those Instead, the organization wants who are poorer.” The study was to draw attention to the fact conducted by NewTithing, a that if this middle group of nonprofi t organization that provides wealthy wealthy Americans had taken better advantage of Americans with information on tax-friendly the tax code, it could have contributed billions charitable giving. more toward charitable causes without affecting According to the study, Americans with in- anyone’s standard of living. To fi nd out more, visit comes between $25,000 and $200,000 donated newtithing.org. about 1 percent of their incomes on average; those – A.W.D.

Korean missile attack. The new capabilities sharply degraded,” it system should be operational by adds that additional deadly September, says Air Force Lt. Gen. attacks are certain. Ron Kadish, who heads up the Another major asterisk in the Missile Defense Agency. fi ne print of the report has to do Interceptors based at Fort with Iraq. According to the State Greely, Alaska, and Vandenberg Department, most of the insurgent Air Force Base, Calif., will form attacks in Iraq “do not meet the the core of the new system with longstanding defi nition of interna- other NMD components, such as tional terrorism because they airborne lasers and sea-based were directed at combatants.” missiles. With forthcoming hardware Bolsheviks to billionaires and software upgrades in Great Think fast: what city is home to Britain, Denmark, Japan and the most billionaires? If you Australia, the NMD will not only guessed Seattle, New York, Los be able to intercept missiles Angeles or Geneva, you aren’t inbound from the Middle East, it even close. According to Forbes will become a truly international magazine, Moscow is home to missile defense by the middle of more billionaires than any other this decade. city on the planet. With 33 billionaires residing Fine print inside the city limits (New York You wouldn’t know it by has 31), what was once the reading the newspaper or watch- capital of world communism is ing the evening news, but fewer now the capital of accumulated international terrorist attacks capital. Without question, one occurred in 2003 than any year factor in Moscow’s billionaire since 1969. That news comes glut is graft and corruption, from the State Department’s which Russia has not been able to annual “Patterns of Global Terror- get a handle on just yet. In fact, A ground-based interceptor prototype booster is launched from Vandenberg Air ism” Report. the top billionaire – oil magnate Force Base, which plays a key role in a new According to the report, 190 Mikhail Khodorkovsky – is in jail national defense system aimed at international terror attacks were on tax-evasion charges. protecting the United States from attack by recorded last year, down from 198 Russia still has to nurture and North Korea. U.S. Air Force in 2002. The attacks claimed 307 grow its middle class, but it’s people, including 35 Americans. impressive that just 13 years after Line of defense Most of the attacks happened in the collapse of the Soviet Union, The Pentagon is ready to Asia. Although the report notes economic freedom is allowing activate a national missile defense that most of al-Qaida’s leadership Russians to build wealth. Lenin (NMD) system aimed at protect- “is dead or in custody, its mem- must be spinning in his grave. ing the United States from a North bership on the run and its – Alan W. Dowd

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BY DR. MINDY AISEN Hispanics. Glaucoma affects the optic First came contact lenses. Then nerve, which laser surgery. Will eyeglasses connects the soon be a thing of the past? retina to the Probably not. Many people do brain. In the most best with traditional eyeglasses, common form, and that’s not likely to change in fl uid builds up in the next few years. Still, it’s plain to the eye and creates see that eye care is dramatically pressure on the optic advancing. More breakthroughs nerve, eventually are on the horizon: For example, damaging it. This scientists with the Department of causes a loss of periph- Veterans Affairs in Boston, Cleve- eral vision. Glaucoma land and Atlanta are working on an has no cure, but it can be artifi cial retina to restore sight to treated with drugs that those with retinitis pigmentosa or help lower the amount of age-related macular degeneration. fl uid in the eye. Other And VA bioengineers in St. Louis options are a laser procedure are testing an injectable gel that that drains fl uid from the may one day replace lenses in the eye, or conventional surgery to eyes of aging, farsighted patients. create a new opening through These high-tech advances are which the fl uid can drain. only one part of VA’s extensive n Cataracts, or clouding of the vision-care effort. VA offers lens in the eye, affl ict more than extensive support and rehabilita- half of Americans by age 80. The tion for veterans with partial or cause can be clumps of protein on blindness. Fortunately, diabetes total vision loss. And all VA the lens, which lead to blurred patients who successfully manage patients benefi t from comprehen- vision, or a yellowing of the lens, their blood-sugar levels can lower sive eye care. which adds a brownish tint to their risk of retinopathy and other Here’s a quick look at the vision. The condition can also complications. causes, symptoms and treatment increase sensitivity to glare and What do all these conditions of the serious eye problems most reduce night vision. Smoking and have in common? They can all be common among veterans: excess sunlight are thought to detected through a comprehensive n Age-related macular degenera- increase the risk of cataracts. eye exam. Such an exam should tion (ARMD) is the leading cause Vitamins and antioxidants may include tests of visual acuity, of vision loss among older Ameri- reduce the risk, according to some peripheral vision, pressure inside cans, especially Caucasians. The studies. Cataract surgery, success- the eye, and corneal thickness. It macula is a tiny area at the back of ful in nine of 10 cases, involves also should include a dilated eye the eye containing millions of replacing the defective natural exam, allowing for inspection of light-sensing cells. In dry ARMD, lens with an artifi cial lens. the retina and optic nerve. these cells break down, leading to n Diabetic retinopathy is the Health-care providers usually blurred vision. One in 10 cases leading cause of vision loss in recommend eye exams every two progresses to wet ARMD, in which those younger than 65. Among years for older adults. But those at blood and fl uid leak under the other complications, diabetes higher risk for certain conditions macula. Wet ARMD is more affects the tiny blood vessels in should have annual exams. Talk serious, account- the retina. In its to your doctor about what’s right ing for 90 percent For more info advanced stage, for you. of the blindness More details on VA vision programs this condition is from the disease. are available on the Internet at: marked by the Mindy Aisen, M.D., is deputy direc- Certain vitamins leaking of blood tor of research and development for and antioxidants www.va.gov/blindrehab. into the center of the Veterans Health Administration. may help prevent the eye, causing or slow the progression of dry spotted or blurred vision. Diabetic Living Well is designed to provide ARMD. Wet ARMD is often treated retinopathy is often accompanied general information. It is not successfully with laser surgery. by swelling of the macula. Both intended to be, nor is it, medical n Glaucoma is a hereditary conditions can often be treated advice. Readers should consult disease that strikes mostly older with laser surgery. Left untreated, their personal physicians when people, especially blacks and diabetic retinopathy can lead to they have health problems.

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M164 ©2004 The SCOOTER Store, Ltd. Consultation. 1650 Independence Drive, New Braunfels, TX 78132 living well The enigmatic artichoke Throughout history, artichokes, tion and an awesome stimulant of including leaves, were believed to the gall bladder and liver. Cy- be a diuretic, a breath freshener narine, an inert bitter chemical, and, of all things, a deodorant. stimulates the production of Artichoke leaves have been used bile, which makes the as blood cleansers, to improve digestion of fats much easier. bile production and secretion to Bile breaks fat down into detoxify the liver and skin. tiny globules, largely With a taste somewhere be- increasing the tween celery and asparagus, the surface area artichoke comes in two varieties. exposed to The Jerusalem artichoke, named digestive juices. “sun roots” in Indian, is a mem- Traditionally, ber of the sunfl ower family and herbalists have native to North America. In the used extracts of artichoke to treat larly useful to people suffering mid-1600s, a French explorer sent high blood pressure, and it is also from gout, arthritis and rheuma- the vegetable to Europe, where it believed to rid the body of tism. quickly spread to Italy and cholesterol. According to a recent Some say the artichoke also has Germany. report from Boston University, the qualities of an aphrodisiac, a Conversely, the globe artichoke, high amounts of dietary fi ber, as theory that has not been scientifi - also known as the French or found in artichokes, appear to cally proven. But must we leave green artichoke, is a member of reduce the risk of kidney stone everything to science? the thistle family. Globes are formation. It also is a cleanser somewhat of a gift to the diges- and detoxifi er, making it particu- Source: Jan Eberle, freelance writer

Aspirin and heart disease Stem-cell Millions of Americans take However, ongoing research aspirin to help prevent heart shows: research not attack or stroke, but many get n Aspirin fails to stop platelets little or no protection. The reason from clumping, or does it only so partisan is simply aspirin non-responsive- partially, in 5 percent to 40 per- ness. And it’s unclear why the cent of people who take it. In contrast to generally held common pain reliever helps some n An individual’s response to perceptions, conservative and has no effect on others. aspirin can change over time. voters are not unanimously Although researchers continue n People who do not respond to opposed to broadening to study the problem and aspirin have a embryonic stem-cell research argue about its higher risk of in the United States, accord- implications, heart attack or ing to a poll made public by Harvard Heart stroke than the Juvenile Diabetes Re- Letter advises those who do. search Foundation. that it’s not The idea The study showed 56 per- too early to that aspirin cent of conservative voters talk with doesn’t work polled support embryonic your doctor for some people stem-cell research and favor about is so new that a broadened policy for being many doctors federal funding of scientifi c tested to either aren’t aware investigation using embry- fi nd out if of the phenomenon onic stem cells that would you respond or are waiting for otherwise be discarded from to aspirin. more research before fertility clinics. Thirty-six Aspirin makes testing their patients for percent of those polled said small pieces of blood aspirin non-responsiveness. they oppose it. cells less “sticky,” thus less likely Patients often must take the to clump and form blood clots that initiative themselves. Source: Juvenile Diabetes can block a blood vessel in the Research Foundation heart or brain. Source: Harvard Health Publications

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More than 150,000 veterans and others attended ceremonies on the National Mall. AP Dedication Day salutes freedom’s heroes World War II memorial was the dream of Ohio Legionnaire.

BY JOHN RAUGHTER Rep. Marcy Kaptur, D-Ohio, in 4,000 gold stars representing the 1987. Unfortunately, the World War 400,000 Americans killed in the hey came from California’s II veteran and member of Sylvania, war. It features two main pavilions high desert, coastal New Ohio, Post 468 died of cancer representing the Atlantic and TEngland and the south side of before the project’s completion, but Pacifi c theaters, and 56 pillars for Chicago. There were Floridians, Kaptur worked relentlessly to the states and territories. Texans and Kansans. At least make the memorial a reality. With “World War II was the biggest 150,000 members and families of the help of national chairman and adventure of my life,” said Bob what NBC news anchorman Tom former senator Bob Dole, groups Holmes, a member of American Brokaw calls “the greatest genera- and individuals raised $178 mil- Legion Post 553 in Toledo, Ohio. “I tion” gathered on the National Mall lion in private contributions. The was in and out before I was 21 May 29 to witness the dedication of American Legion family raised years old.” The Navy veteran said the World War II Memorial. more than $4.5 million. attending the dedication was “These were the modest sons of The project faced opposition important because the memorial a peaceful country, and millions of early on. “Some protesters formed was something he could tell his us are very proud to call them a group called Save the Mall,” kids about. His grandson, David ‘Dad,’” said President Bush, Dole told The American Legion Holmes, a member of the Army’s himself the son of World War II Magazine in February. “My 25th Infantry Division, is in veteran George H.W. Bush, also response to Save the Mall was, Hawaii recuperating from a present. “They gave the best years ‘We already saved the Mall in roadside bomb blast in Iraq. The of their lives to the greatest mission World War II, and we saved younger Holmes is trying to remain their country ever accepted.” everything else in town, too.’” in the service despite a shattered The dedication culminated an The controversy was forgotten leg. Neither Bob nor David might improbable chain of events that by dedication day. The memorial, be here today if not for a diffi cult started with a simple query from a designed by Friedrich St. Florian, decision made in 1945. Legionnaire. “Why is there no is positioned at the east end of the “I was in Manila Bay awaiting World War II memorial in Wash- Refl ecting Pool between the orders to invade mainland Japan,” ington?” then-66-year-old Roger Lincoln Memorial and Washington Bob says. “Thank God, Harry Durbin asked his congresswoman, Monument. It includes a wall of Truman dropped the A-bomb.”

52 August 2004 The American Legion Magazine legion news

The American Legion family In appreciation sponsored a hospitality tent at the The American Legion family thanks its dedication. The Legion also corporate and association partners, honored another important legacy who contributed to the success of the of America’s World War II veterans: World War II National Dedication Day: their grandchildren. Hundreds Veterans Holidays, American Legion strolled around the Tidal Basin on Wireless, NEXTEL, Cole Managed May 28 in a candlelight walk for Vision, First National Bank of Omaha, the Children’s Miracle Network, a Marsh Affi nity Group Services, ING, national organization and Legion Sons of the American Revolution and partner that raises money for Children’s Miracle Network. children’s hospitals. Similar events occurred in communities across the country to raise money for local Posts across nation CMN hospitals while honoring Members of The American Legion family honor veterans hometown World War II veterans. participate in a walk-a-thon to raise money The American Legion recognizes the Although World War II veterans for the Children’s Miracle Network. efforts of posts to honor World War II dominated the Memorial Day John Raughter veterans nationwide. National weekend celebrations in Washing- headquarters received hundreds of ton, Conrad Chisholm said the America’s veterans and calling letters describing innovative local purpose of the memorial is to attention to POW/MIA issues. activities, including prayer breakfasts, educate others. While most of the motorcyclists live broadcasts of the national “In World War II, we didn’t have came of age during the Vietnam dedication and walk-a-thons benefi t- television, and radio didn’t provide and post-Vietnam eras, love of ing the Children’s Miracle Network. a lot of details,” said Chisholm, a country is the common bond they Many posts recorded oral histories Legion past national vice com- share with their World War II from World War II veterans, and mander and a veteran of the war’s predecessors. One of those prede- displayed newspaper clippings, family European theater. “Some younger cessors discussed the diversity letters and scrapbooks from that era. people read about World War II, but and bravery from which America Many posts, such as Post 2 in they might not understand all of its draws during wartime. Casper, Wyo., provided big-screen ramifi cations.” “What we dedicate today is not a televisions for World War II veterans to Many Legionnaires attending the memorial to war,” Dole said. watch the national dedication. event stayed at Washington’s “Rather, it is a tribute to the Bloomington, Ind., Burton Wool- Mayfl ower Hotel, where 60 years physical and moral courage that ery Post 18 reported more than 500 earlier Past National Commander makes heroes out of farm and city people at its prayer breakfast. Harry W. Colmery wrote the boys, that inspires Americans of Beavercreek, Ohio, Post 763’s original draft of the GI Bill on hotel every generation to lay down their program booklet featured World War stationery. Scores of motorcyclists, lives for people they’ll never meet.” II-era military-service photos, a including members of The Ameri- On May 29, Americans said timeline of World War II events, a list can Legion Riders, rendezvoused “thank you” to 400,000 who laid of local World War II veterans, and a at the hotel May 30 to kick off their down their lives and the 16 tribute to World War II veterans from participation in Rolling Thunder, million who answered the nation’s Post 763. an annual rally of thousands of call. Roger Durbin would have Weston, W.Va., Post 4 posted motorcyclists paying homage to been proud. photos of 1,300 local World War II veterans at the local senior center. Post 4 also inducted two active-duty National Guardsmen, recently returned from Iraq, as members. Lafayette Post 51 in Uniontown, Pa. – whose membership includes more than 130 World War II veterans – assisted about 6,000 veterans and their families in getting their names and pictures on the World War II Memorial registry. Twenty local World War II veterans joined The American Legion for the fi rst time by becoming members of Post 51. The Department of Pennsylvania arranged trips for more than 650 veterans and guests to attend the American Legion Riders depart the Mayfl ower Hotel en route to Rolling Thunder. John Raughter national dedication ceremony.

August 2004 53 The American Legion Magazine legion news

Visitors enjoy the National D-Day Memorial in Bedford, Va., while the U.S. Navy Band warms up before the 60th D-Day anniversary ceremony. Elissa Kaupisch ‘A great brotherhood’ 6,000 people, including more than country that day perished on the D-Day Veterans 100 D-Day veterans, to the National beaches of Normandy. The “Bed- D-Day Memorial in Bedford, Va. ford Boys,” as they have affection- commemorate The ceremony served a dual ately been called, were National purpose, as does the memorial Guardsmen serving in Company A itself: fi rst, to honor the sacrifi ces of of the 116th Infantry Regiment, 60th anniversary. the Allied Forces on D- 29th Infantry Division. BY ELISSA KAUPISCH Day; second, to educate Before the 60th current and future anniversary ceremony n the morning of June 6, generations about the began, D-Day veterans 1944, Allied troops landed D-Day legacy. talked with visitors. Oon the beaches of Norman- Bedford was selected Jack Hoffl er had people dy, France, as part of Operation as the site for the 88- waiting to meet him. Overlord, the largest air, land and acre memorial – which Hoffl er, who has sea operation undertaken in was dedicated on June received national history. The D-Day landing, which 6, 2001 – not only recognition as the involved more than 5,000 ships, because Bedford youngest D-Day 11,000 airplanes and 159,000 represents small towns veteran, wore a vest troops, changed the world forever. across America that inscribed with his other The casualties were horrifi c, but sent citizen-soldiers to distinction: “Youngest D-Day was indisputably one of the the war but also Combat Sailor, U.S. greatest military achievements of because on D-Day, Navy. D-Day, June 6, all time, one that led to the Bedford suffered the 1944.” Hoffl er enlisted liberation of Europe and the end highest number of at age 14 and was 15 at Andrew Seaman of of World War II. casualties in a single Richmond, Va., dons the the time of the Norman- The 60th anniversary of D-Day day of fi ghting. Nineteen offi cial uniform of the dy invasion. ceremony, “A Memorial Testament of the town’s 35 young “Bedford Boys.” When asked what D- to Freedom,” drew more than men who served their Elissa Kaupisch Day was like, he said,

54 August 2004 The American Legion Magazine legion news

“Pure hell or the next thing to it. I means ‘crazy white man.’” 60th Anniversary of was a gunner on a landing craft, Highlights of the commemora- and my landing craft sank. I was tion ceremony included: D-Day and “Freedom stranded on Omaha Beach n Choral music performed by the Week” Activities because the ship I was attached to Sea Chanters, accompanied by the Bedford, Va., and surrounding went back to England to get more U.S. Navy Band from Washington communities celebrated “Freedom troops. I was on Omaha Beach n The reading of Gen. Dwight Week” with D-Day veterans beginning from June 6 to July 13 before I got Eisenhower’s D-Day order May 29 and continuing through the back to my ship. Being in the n An awards presentation for the commemoration ceremony on June 6. midst of war at such a young age winners of a regional high-school Events included a patriotic bluegrass made me grow up real fast.” essay contest, in which students show; a concert of 1940s music at the Robert Cassel, from Wenonah, answered the question “Why does National D-Day Memorial; an art N.J., Post 192, missed the invasion D-Day matter today?” exhibit of D-Day prints at the Bedford by 94 days. “We landed on Utah n An address called “D-Day: Then Public Library; a living history en- Beach in September and Now” by April campment, where visitors experi- 1944,” he said. “The Cheek, National D- enced the life of a soldier during 4th Infantry Division Day Memorial World War II; “A Visit with Alex cleared the way and Foundation director Kershaw,” internationally known made it easy for us.” of education author of “The Bedford Boys;” and a Concerning the D- n A 60th anniversary “GI Jive Dance,” where D-Day veterans Day anniversary, address by U.S. Rep. and guests danced to the big-band Cassel said, “I have Robert W. Goodlatte, music performed by a 17-piece talked to several R-Va. orchestra. The crowd also enjoyed a Navy, Air Force and silent auction of World War II memora- bilia, 1940s and 1950s dance routines infantry veterans Before the crowd performed by “Solely Swing,” a group today, and I discov- The USO Liberty Belles honor the was dismissed, U.S. of students from Virginia Polytechnic ered we still have a USO’s 63-year tradition of Sen. George Allen, R- Institute, and a USO show performed entertaining troops. Elissa Kaupisch common bond. It’s a Va., asked all D-Day by the USO Liberty Belles. fellowship we share veterans in the and, in a way, a great brotherhood.” audience to stand or raise their Visitors that day had the rare hands to be recognized. As they opportunity of meeting D-Day stood, thunderous applause and The Professional Power veteran Charles J. Chibitty, the last cheers erupted, followed by a surviving Comanche Code Talker. standing ovation. ® He described how Comanches used After the ceremony, veterans DR CHIPPER their language to send messages and guests were welcomed to the is now ON SALE! over fi eld telephones, messages that canteen for food and fellowship. A The amazing DR® CHIPPER powers through 4-1/2" included details about troop special USO show featuring the thick branches, producing valuable landscape mulch. It’s the strength and the movement of USO Liberty Belles, a troupe from FREE troops and weaponry. Chibitty sent World USO Headquarters in fastest, easiest way to get SHIPPING rid of ugly brush both ways! the fi rst message on D-Day, which Washington, sang classics from piles...3 to 4 translated, “Five miles to the right the 1940s. Reminiscent of the times faster than of the designated area and fi ve Andrews Sisters, the Liberty ordinary miles inland, the fi ghting is fi erce, Belles are known for their rousing homeowner and we need help.” medleys of patriotic songs honor- chipper/ Chibitty, 81, was a senior in high ing the USO’s 63-year tradition of shredders! school when he was asked to use entertaining troops. • SAVE UP TO $399 right now with his native language in World War Representatives from the Library Factory-Direct Savings! II as a code-talker. “The Navajos of Congress American Folklife • RECEIVE A 6-MONTH RISK-FREE TRIAL! went to the Pacifi c, and the Center were on hand to record oral • GET OUR FREE CATALOG and VIDEO! Comanches went to Europe,” said histories of D-Day veterans. Chibitty, who was attached to the Members of Bedford American CALL TOLL FREE U.S. Army’s 4th Infantry Division, Legion Post 54 assisted with 1-800-542-8880 Signal Company, that landed on many of the D-Day anniversary www.drchipper.com Utah Beach. “What we couldn’t preparations and “Freedom YES! Please rush complete FREE DETAILS of the Professional-Power DR® CHIPPER, including say in the Comanche language, Week” events. The day of the prices and specifications and how I can now receive we’d substitute some other thing. ceremony, post volunteers pro- FREE Depot Delivery.

A tank became a ‘wah-kah-lay-ya’ vided memorial-site tours, staffed Name ______AML – a turtle – because it had a hard information booths, helped with Address ______shell. ‘Bomber’ translated into traffi c control, and drove buses ‘pregnant airplane.’ ‘Po-sah-tie-vo’ that brought veterans and guests City______State______ZIP______was used for Adolf Hitler, which to the memorial site. E-mail______COUNTRY HOME PRODUCTS®, Dept. 49064X Meigs Road, P.O. Box 25, Vergennes, VT 05491 © 2004 CHP, Inc. legion news Eagle Scout of the Year named A McMinnville, a team of scouts plans to study music at Carson- Tenn., student is who handled three Newman College in Jefferson City, The American collection centers, Tenn. In addition to Scouting, Legion Eagle Scout then orchestrated Allen is active with the American of the Year for 2004. the actual ceremo- Red Cross, is a charter member of Garrett F. Martin, ny conducted by a theatre restoration group, serves 17, a senior at his troop. meals for Love Outreach and is a Warren County “The most board member of the Warren High School and a memorable portion County Fair Association. More member of Boy of the fl ag-retire- than a dozen other community Scout Troop 631, ment ceremony organizations benefi t from his earned the award was the participa- involvement during the year. and a college tion of veterans,” The American Legion awarded scholarship worth Martin said. “Their a $2,500 scholarship to Christo- $10,000. patriotism was just pher W. Jackson of Lincoln Park, The award as much alive N.J.; William “Ben” Towne of recognizes Martin’s today as it was Litchfi eld, N.H.; and Benjamin practical citizenship Courtesy Garrett F. Martin when they were in Banwart of Shakopee, Minn. at school and in the battle. I received The American Legion has community, Scouting and his notes from veterans thanking me supported Scouting since its fi rst church involvement at First Baptist and expressing their appreciation. national convention in 1919. Church McMinnville. For his Eagle They have shared those feelings Legion posts sponsor more than Scout project, Martin organized a with me, and I shall never forget.” 2,500 Scouting units, serving Patriot Day fl ag retirement ceremo- An Eagle Scout since 2002, 72,000 young people, at an annual ny in September 2002. He directed Martin is an honors student. He cost of more than $1.7 million. Low-priced BDUs available through Emblem Sales Servicemembers typically adjustable sleeve buttons. are issued two battle dress The cost is $19.95 per uniforms upon entering the jacket or pants in Wood- armed forces. Additional land Camo (summer or BDUs must be purchased winter/temperate) and from clothing allowances. $24.95 per jacket or Often, demand is greater pants in Desert (sum- than the supply, and mer ripstop). The Desert shortages in certain sizes Camo is nylon/cotton exist. Responding to recent ripstop fabric and perfect anticipated shortages, The for hot-weather climates, American Legion’s Emblem constructed to be light- Sales division has acquired weight and breathable. top-quality BDUs, available Ripstop fabric resists for immediate delivery at wear and tears. low prices and free domes- All BDU’s are backed tic shipping. Emblem by a 100-percent money- Sales is able to offer back guarantee. All sizes them at cheaper prices are available for immedi- than if purchased ate shipment. from the armed forces To order The American Legion supply service. (888) 453-4466 is proud to support Made according to emblem.legion.org today’s military by U.S. military specifi ca- supplying the toughest tions, these tough BDUs feature and most affordable BDUs to the four bellows pockets, reinforced men and women defending elbows, concealed buttons and America’s freedom. GENUINEGENUINE LEATHERLEATHER MOTORCYCLEMOTORCYCLE CAPCAP

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How to Submit a Reunion phone number and e-mail address. Send notices to The American Legion Magazine, Attn: “In Search Of,” P.O. Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206, The American Legion Magazine publishes reunion notices for veter- fax (317) 630-1280 or e-mail [email protected]. ans. Send notices to The American Legion Magazine, Attn: Reunions, The magazine will not publish the names of individuals, only the P.O. Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206, fax (317) 630-1280 or e-mail name of the unit from which you seek people. Listings are published free [email protected]. of charge. Include the branch of service and complete name of the group, no Life Membership notices are published for Legionnaires who have abbreviations, with your request. The listing also should include the been awarded life memberships by their posts. This does not include a reunion dates and city, along with a contact name, telephone number and member’s own Paid-Up-For-Life membership. Notices must be submitted e-mail address. Listings are published free of charge. on official forms, which may be obtained by sending a self-addressed Due to the large number of reunions, The American Legion Maga- stamped envelope to The American Legion Magazine, Attn: Life Mem- zine will publish a group’s listing only once a year. Notices should be berships, P.O. Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206. sent at least six months prior to the reunion to ensure timely publication. “Comrades in Distress” listings must be approved by the Legion’s Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation division. If you are seeking to verify an injury received during service, contact your Legion department service officer for information on how to publish a notice. Other Notices To respond to a “Comrades in Distress” listing, send a letter to The “In Search Of” is a means of getting in touch with people from your American Legion Magazine, Attn: Comrades in Distress, P.O. Box unit to plan a reunion. We do not publish listings that seek people for 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206. Include the listing’s CID number in your interviews, research purposes, military photos or help in filing a VA response. claim. Listings must include the name of the unit from which you seek “Taps” notices are published only for Legionnaires who served as people, the time period and the location, as well as a contact name, tele- department commanders or national officers.

AIR FORCE/ARMY AIR FORCES Will Cook, (419) 739-9677, wc5ad@bright. COAST GUARD net; 7th FA Rgt, Philadelphia, 9/9-11, Stanley 9th AF 397th Bomb Grp (All Sqdns), Dayton, Stankiewicz, (910) 822-0703; 30th FA Bn, USCGC Ingham WHEC 35, Charleston, SC, OH, 9/29-10/3, Ernie Lutz, (517) 676-4601; 27th Branson, MO, 9/10-11, Ambrose Peters, (573) 9/30-10/2, Jack Elam, (352) 746-0079, jlecpe@ Air Trans Assn (WWII) – 310th, 311th, 312th 238-2791; 34th Inf Div (All Units), Louisville, atlantic.net & 325th Ferrying Sqds, 86th, 87th, 320th & KY, 9/9-12, Ray Rudolph, (412) 486-6536, 321st Trans Sqds, 519th & 520th Serv Sqds, [email protected]; 40th Inf Div 160th Rgt A JOINT Shreveport, LA, 9/30-10/2, Donald Diehm, Co, Nashville, TN, 9/28-30, Roger Lueckenhoff, (828) 892-5422; 37th FS/FIS/FTS, Fort Worth, Pearl Harbor 63rd Anniv, Honolulu, 12/4-7, (573) 364-4145, [email protected]; 42nd TX, 10/8-11, Leslie Knapp, 9819 Gemini Drive, Sy Canton, (561) 865-8495; Reunion in the Inf Plt Scout Dog (Vietnam, 1966-1971), San Antonio, TX 78217, [email protected] Philippines (Manila, Corregidor, Subic/ Phoenix, 10/15-17, J. McIntyre, (612) 522-9377, Olongapo, Bataan, Clark Field), 10/16-28, [email protected] 64th Trp Carrier Grp, Chickasha, OK, Sept, Judy Buzzell, (703) 212-0695, info@ Vern Montgomery, (317) 241-5264; 363rd Ftr subicbayreunion.com Grp “Mustang” 161st Tact Recon Sqdn, 62nd Avn Co AML & Attached Units Omaha, NE, 10/14-16, Art Mimler, (209) (1964-1965), 9/30-10/4, Frank Estes, (334) MARINES 966-2713; 379th Bomb Grp (H), Dayton, OH, 774-5571, [email protected]; 65th Armd FA Bn (WWII), Washington, 9/30-10/3, Wallace 10th Def/AAA Bn (WWII), Gatlinburg, 9/7-11, T. Cabanski, (303) 697-6265; 381st TN, 9/12-15, Ben Taylor, (865) 674-8608, Bomb Grp (H) Memorial Assn, Seattle, Eckdahl, (952) 929-4078, [email protected]; 68th Sig Bn, Washington, 8/20-22, Mike Biloz, [email protected]; Easy Co 2nd Bn 5th 9/1-4, J.K. Waddell, P.O. Box 6064, Madison, Mar 1st Mar Div (Korea, 1950-1953), (239) 731-6965, [email protected]; 97th WI 53716, [email protected]; 389th, 390th & Savannah, GA, 9/15-19, Evans Kerrigan, (203) Inf Div 322nd Med Bn, Mobile, AL, 10/14-17, 391st Ftr Bomb Sqdns (England AFB, LA), 655-3323, [email protected]; Golf Co David “Dixie” Howell, (251) 847-2497; 97th Inf New Orleans, 10/20-24, John Shirley, (512) 2nd Bn 5th Mar 1st Mar Div (Vietnam), 671-3464 Div 387th Inf HQ Co 1st Bn, San Jose, CA, Washington, 9/24-26, Larry Ortiz, (805) 9/13-17, Jack Burgett, (408) 249-2392 685-4221, iso@[email protected]; MACS-8, 449th Bomb Grp (WWII), Chattanooga, TN, Las Vegas, 9/16-19, Tommy Redus, (662) 10/10-13, Lee Kenney, (321) 242-8654; 501st 106th Ord Co HM (Korea), Roswell, NM, 10/4- 272-5292; MAG-11, 12 & 14, Branson, MO, Tact Cont Grp Assn – 501st, 526th Tact 7, R.J. Weeks, (417) 732-8262, rjweeks@hotmail. 10/13-16, James Jordan, (417) 535-4945, james. Cont Grps, 501st HQ & HQ Sqdn, 807th com; 158th Rgt Cbt Team “Bushmasters,” [email protected]; Rgt Wpns Co 24th Tact Cont Sqdn, 601st, 602nd, 603rd & Washington, 9/13-16, Jim Stallings, (602) Rgt 4th Mar Div, Cape Canaveral, FL, 11/3-6, 604th AC&W Sqdns, 615th & 616th AC&W 274-1484, [email protected]; 249th Eng Bn (WWII- Norbert Krass, (239) 768-5949, nk2@earthlink. Sqdns, 943rd Forward Air Cont Sqdn, 2004), Indianapolis, 9/23-25, Irmin Magruder, net; VMR-952 Trans Sqdn, Oregon, IL, 10/14- 555th Sig AC&W Sqdn, Branson, MO, (540) 886-6941, [email protected]; 314th Inf 17, Ray Doyle, (815) 734-6579 10/17-20, Ron Anderson, (701) 293-5473, (WWII), Branson, MO, 9/8-11, Wayne Irby, (800) [email protected] 925-8498, [email protected]; 440th Sig NAVY Avn Const Bn, Reno, NV, 10/5-7, Jim Hendricks, 768th AC&W Sqdn (Moriarty AFS), [email protected] 6th Naval Beach Bn (Omaha Beach, Moriarty, NM, 9/23-25, Orv Hendrickson, D-Day), Peoria, IL, 9/8-12, Ed Marriott, (770) (715) 235-7254, [email protected]; AF 461st Ord Ammo Co (Korea, 1950-1952), 466-8323, [email protected]; 113th Gunners Assn, Charleston, SC, 9/22-25, Dan Minneapolis, 9/17-19, Richard “Andy” Anderson, Seabees, Albuquerque, NM, 9/14-19, Gilbert Danish, (210) 520-1517; AF Postal & Courier (989) 739-2172, [email protected]; 558th Irps, (815) 937-9698; Assn of Minemen, Assn, Las Vegas, 9/14-17, Dan Neff, (909) AAA AW Bn (WWII), Bedford, PA, 9/17-19, Bill Charleston, SC, 10/8-10, Robert Hart, (843) 792-5424, [email protected]; Drobnich, (814) 766-2674; 650th Eng Topo Bn, 383-0882, [email protected]; GCA/ATC Air Rescue Assn, Seattle, 9/22-25, Sandy Chattanooga, TN, 10/5-9, Frank Captain, (718) Assn, 9/14-19, Larry Lohse, (360) 679-3391, [email protected]; Naval Cryptologic Gonzalez, (407) 834-0105, sgonzalez@cfl. 667-4231, [email protected]; 698th AAA Bn, Vets Assn New England Chpt, East Lyme, rr.com; Avn Cadet Pilot Tng Class 55-S, Nashville, TN, 10/14-17, Kenneth Elkins, (251) CT, 10/8-9, Phil Sirmons, (860) 739-6006, Midland, TX, 10/7-9, Marvin Craig, (970) 493- 633-7616 0842, [email protected] [email protected]; 1103rd/555th Eng C Grp/333rd Eng SS Rgt, USS Agawam AOG 6, Reno, NV, 10/10- Vietnam Sec Police Assn, Tucson, AZ, Branson, MO, 9/21-24, Wayne Kuhn, (715) 868- 10/7-10, Don Graham, (610) 691-6960, 12, John Nicholson, (937) 323-0173, 5390; 3118th Sig Serv Grp SHAEF (WWII), [email protected]; USS Alderamin AK [email protected]; Westover AFSPPF/ Grand Rapids, MI, 9/9-12, Jim Sands, (941) 6594th, 8th RTG/Weisbaden-Shierstein 116 (WWII), Perrysburg, OH, 9/17-19, Loren 625-3574, [email protected]; 8221st Brown, (419) 693-6680; USS Belet APD 109, 7499th/497th RTG, Bay St. Louis, MS, 10/3-8, Army Unit Assn (Korea, 1950-1954), Branson, Jim Grimm, (352) 483-3772, [email protected] Covington, KY, 9/13-15, Erma Chasteen, (937) MO, Ken Paulson, (763) 262-2840; B Co 593rd 437-6006, [email protected]; USS ARMY EBSR, Louisville, KY, 9/11-14, John McGrath, Bremerton CA 130/SSN 698, San Antonio, (502) 448-3118; Baker Co 15th Inf Rgt 3rd Inf 9/11-15, Robert Polanowski, (585) 365-2316, 3rd Cav Grp Vets Assn 3rd, 43rd Sqdns, Div, Hinesville, GA, 9/14-18, Dick Ashton, (410) [email protected] Detroit, 9/10-12, Pat McDonald, (248) 332- 686-1197, [email protected]; L Co 0734, [email protected]; 3rd Eng Cbt 35th Inf Rgt 25th Inf Div, Portland, OR, 9/7-11, USS Cabezon SS 334, St. Marys, GA, Bn, Albuquerque, NM, 9/19-21, Don Lloyd, R.L. Roper, (828) 692-2279; OCS Inf Class 22- 11/2-6, Jim Johnston, [email protected]; (509) 965-3231, [email protected]; 5th 1952, New Orleans, 9/27-29, Don Buss, (508) USS Cusk SS 348, Cleveland, 9/1-5, Nelson Armd Div Assn (WWII), Covington, KY, Sept, 756-8220, [email protected] Kirsch, (216) 464-9391, nmkirsch@att.

58 August 2004 The American Legion Magazine ChooseChoose LifeLife GrowGrow YoungYoung withwith HGHHGH

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Centore, John R. Colli Jr., Bupyong, Korea, 1961-1962), Floyd Arnel, Plt 209 Quonset Huts Sect (ME to SC boot Jerry R. Hayes, Michael F. Kilty, Rosalie C. (209) 823-9724, [email protected] camp, Apr 1954), Robert Stengel, (508) Kone, Edward A. McMahon, Roy E. Micha, 541st QM Co 56th QM Depot (Giessen, 867-6009 Robert P. Nadeau, Edward V. Sabotka, Germany, 1947-1951), Floyd Arnel, (209) REDHORSE/Prime Beef (All Units, 1965- Leroy J. Swazey, Stanley Swede, Thomas K. 823-9724, [email protected] 2004), Tom Gallagher, (352) 860-1629, Unnold, Bernard F. Viera 565th Med Co Amb (Baumholder, Germany, [email protected] Post 74, CT: John Smitonick 1964-1966), Jim Gardner, (360) 636-2457 Sub Grp 2 San Diego Pacific Reserve Flt Post 69, FL: David M. Walkin 798th, 1798th Ord Cos 34th Air Depot (San (Hull Repair, 1951-1952), Edwin Pulk, (207) Post 316, FL: Clarence E. Hill Bernardino, CA, 1942), Joseph Kenney, 562-8769 Post 40, NH: Robert G. 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(Korea, 1952-1954), John “J.J.” Henry, (914) 1947), Henry “Gus” King, P.O. Box 217, Paw edu 965-9892 Paw, WV 25434 3rd Div 10th Eng Co C Motor Pool (Kumwa B Co 3rd Bn 77th Armor 5th Div “Red USS Lexington CV 2 & Avn Ord (June 1941- Valley, Korea, 1952-1953), Orwald “Ozzie” Diamond,” (Fort Devens, Camp Drum, sinking), David Hughey, dalexhughey@juno. Bruss, (920) 739-8097, [email protected] Fort Stewart, 1962-1964), Douglas “Dick” com 3rd MP EG (Inchon, Korea, Dec 1950), Nixon, (812) 825-9759, [email protected] USS Mahopac ATA 196, Ernest Williams, (850) Eugene Lyons, (815) 358-2659 B Co 24th S&T Bn (Augsburg, Germany, 249-0333, [email protected] 7th Bn 15th FA (Vietnam, 1967-1971), Dave 1966-1970), Robert Hones Jr., (781) 828-8099 USS Neosho AO 143 “Plank Holders,” Glenn Holdorf, (414) 464-2939, [email protected] B Trp 3rd Sqdn 8th Cav 8th Inf Div (Coleman Hirst, (317) 547-3925, [email protected] 7th Log Cmd Football Team (Korea, Barracks, Mannheim or Sandhofen, VA-212 “Rampart Raiders” Line Crew 1960), Joe Brewer Jr., (215) 968-5149, Germany, 1960-1963), Clark Elftman, (989) (Moffett Field, CA, 1956-1957), Joe Lee, [email protected] 453-2459, [email protected] (770) 969-8824 13th Armd Div “Black Cat” 59th Armd Inf Bombadiers Class 44-1 DR San Angelo, TX, YP 400 (Aleutians, 1942-1943), Ray Horton, Bn B Co 1st Plt 3rd Sqd (Europe, Jan-July Bombadier School Grads (Jan 1944), Max (541) 673-6491 1945), Joseph Bligh, (562) 630-3888, Trinowski, (708) 474-4639 [email protected] CBU-201 Seabees (Antarctica, 1966-1967), TAPS 27th Rgt 25th Div (Korea, 1950-1951), James Michael Liso, (203) 467-2312, drillinst1205@ Webster, (308) 237-5055 aol.com Robert C. Flanery, Dept. of Oregon. Nat’l 28th Inf Div (Germany, 1951-1952), Pete CINCPACFLT Personnel (1954-1956), Cy Mbrshp. & Post Activ. Cmte. Memb. 1961- Ambrosio, (603) 432-6213, peteambro4@aol. Fitterer, (952) 831-0535, [email protected] 1964. com Co 246 (Camp Dewey, Barracks 1101, NTC Joseph F. Murphy, Dept. of Vermont. Nat’l 43rd Food Serv Sqdn (Japan, 1957-1958), Great Lakes, IL, Aug-Oct 1950), Larry Merchant Marine Cmte. Memb. 1990-1995, James Webster, (308) 237-5055 Hagenah, 3432 Valley Road, Winston-Salem, Dept. Cmdr. 1991-1992, Alt. Nat’l Exec. 55th MAS Air Evac (Rhein Main AB, NC 27106 Cmte. Memb. 1993-1995, Nat’l Exec. Cmte. Germany, 1963), Dick Jones, (817) 421-4617, D Co 106th Med Co (Camp Robinson, Memb. 1995-1997, Nat’l Americanism Cmsn. [email protected] AK, 1942), Wayne Blake, (605) 336-1554, Liaison Cmte. 1995-1997, Nat’l Constitution 76th Air Rescue Sqdn (Hickam, HI, 1951- [email protected] & By-Laws Cmte. Memb. 1997-2002 and 1954), Herley Moore, (248) 625-2498, Det 2 1141st Spec Activ Sqdn Nat’l Americanism Cncl. Memb. 2002-2003. [email protected] (Fontainebleau, France, 1958-1964), Dick George P. Sterbenz, Dept. of Alaska. Nat’l 85th QM (Idar-Oberstein, Germany, 1966- Herzfeld, (414) 445-2670, [email protected] Americanism Cncl. Vice Chmn. 1992-1993 1969), Allan Jackson, (202) 583-0047 Dover AFB Fire Dept, Kim Moore, (302) 677- and Dept. Cmdr. 1993-1994. 237th Eng C Bn (Germany, 1955-Deactiv), 4401, [email protected] Robert B. Ward, Dept. of Indiana. Nat’l John Hetzel, (732) 681-7672 Female Recruit Co 3127 (Orlando, FL, July- Homeland Sec. Cncl. Vice Chmn. 1990-2002.

August 2004 61 The American Legion Magazine

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August 2004 63 The American Legion Magazine parting shots An apple a day keeps the doctor away. An onion a day keeps everyone away.

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64 August 2004 The American Legion Magazine Asbestos Cancer Hits Former Sailors

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