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QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE \ NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION "For HEADQUARTERS God William M. Detweiler, Chairman Frederick Woodress, Director and j P.O. Box 1055 Country / Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 (317) 635-8411
AMERICAN LEGION NEWS BRIEFS FOR WEEK ENDING 9-5-80
"It was the sentiment of the organization back in the early 1920s that The American Legion should not be politicized, and that feeling is reaffirmed today since we have chosen not to endorse political candidates nor to form a Political Action Committee," National Commander Michael J. Kogutek told his first national headquarters city news conference. * * *
Three American Legion public service spots are now available through National Emblem Sales. * * *
Honolulu, Hawaii's Moilili Legion Baseball team is the 1980 American Legion World Series Baseball Champion with a five-to-four win over Charles B. Yerger Post 471 of Boyertown, Pa., in the 15th and final game of the double-elimination tourney conducted at Ely baseball field, Ely, Minn. * * *
Due to the final day convention report of the National Security Commission, resolutions adopted from the report were too late for inclusion in the second ALNS convention issue. Major National Security resolutions adopted at the 1980 national convention are capsulized in this issue of ALNS. * * *
M. LaReine Maxey of California was re-elected president of the National Association cf Department Historians Aug. 16, 1980, at The American Legion's 62nd annual convention in Boston, Mass. * * *
Vice President Walter Mondale of Minnesota paid a surprise visit to the 1980 World Series of American Legion Baseball Aug. 28 in Ely, Minn., where the eight finalists of nearly 4,000 American Legion certified baseball teams were battling for The American Legion national championship. * * *
The newly revised and updated edition of Need a Lift?, a comprehensive handbook of sources of financial aid for youths interested in higher education, is ready for release by The American Legion Education Program of the Americanism and Children & Youth Division. -alns- art
0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION HEADQUARTERS William M. Detweiler, Chairman Frederick Woodress, Director P.O. Box 1055 Indianapolis, I ndlana 46206 (317) 635-8411
For Release 9-5-80
INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—"It was the sentiment of the organization back in the early 1920s that The American Legion should not be politicized, and that feeling is reaffirmed today since we have chosen not to endorse political candidates nor to form a Political Action Committee," Commander Michael J. Kogutek told his first National Headquarters city news conference here
The American Legion is deeply concerned about the well-being of diplomatic personnel held hostage in Iran, "but still is hopeful that by peaceful means we can bring our people back home soon and safely," Commander Kogutek said in response to another question.
Asked about the Polish labor situation, the Commander said the Legion was pleased to see it settled by peaceful means "without drawing Russia into the problem." He continued to say that hopefully the action of the Polish workers might bring more freedom to other people.
Prior to moving to the question and answer portion of his news conference, the Commander read a prepared statement reiterating the Legion's strong positions on national defense matters, including reactivation of Selective Service up to and including induction.
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INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Three American Legion public service spots are now available through National Emblem Sales. The spots, which include one 10-second flag sequence, a 10-second "Get Out The Vote" sequence, and a 30-second American Legion history sequence, are priced at $25 per video tape.
Those interested in promoting The American Legion through television public service spots may wish to purchase the two-inch video tapes for the upcoming general election.
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ATTENTION: All Recipients of 1980 American Education Week Speech
The dates of American Education Week, 1980, are the week of November 16-22. The suggested address for American Education Week, 1980, is incorrectly dated, but the content of the speech is all right. Please disregard the dates on the copy you receive. If it has the year 1980 on it, your copy is current and useable. Remember the correct dates, November 16-22, 1980.
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0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION HEADQUARTERS William M. Detweiler, Chairman Frederick Woodress, Director P.O. Box 1055 Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 (317) 635-8411
For Release 9-5-80
ELY Minn.—(ALNS)—Honolulu, Hawaii's Moilili Legion Baseball team is the 1980 American'Legion World Series Baseball Champion with a five-to-four win over Charles B. Yerger Post 471 of Boyertown, Pa., in the 15th and final game of the double-elimination tourney conducted at Ely baseball field here.
Rain on Friday forced postponement of two scheduled contests until Saturday, and three games were played on Sunday to bring the series back on schedule and permit the finale of the event on Labor Day Monday as planned.
Honolulu had to win two games in the final day's competition, beating Hialeah, Fla., seven to four before taking the championship game from Boyertown on the strength of a three-run fifth inning capped by a two-run home run.
Thomas Gill, Hialeah right fielder, was named American Legion Baseball Player of the Year for 1980 and hit .357 for the series, which also brought him the Rollins Big Stick Award with a total 27 bases. Other Legion Baseball awards for 1980 were: Click Cowger RBI Award to Howard Kapuniai of Honolulu, with 16; Louisville Slugger Award for the best batting average to Cedric Gray of California, with a hefty .567; the James F. Daniel Memorial Sportsmanship Award to Bob Melvin, California catcher; Bob Feller Award for most strikeouts by a pitcher to Sid Fernandez of the championship Honolulu Nine, with 55, the Jack Williams Award for coach of the year to Clyde Hayashida; and manager of the year to Ron Jacobs, both of the Honolulu club.
The Howard P. Savage National Championship Trophy went to Honolulu and the Ford C. Frick runner-up trophy to Boyertown, Pa.
Following is the game-by-game progress of the double elimination tourney:
Game No. 1 - Palo Alto (Calif.) Post 375 8; Sullivan-Babcock Post 32, Hialeah,
Game No, - Moilili Legion Baseball, Honolulu, Hawaii, 3; Homer Dehringer Post 281, Waukegan, 111., 2 Game No, 3 — Charles B. Yerger Post No. 471, Boyertown, Pa., 2; Crescent City Post 125, New Orleans, La., 2 Game No. 4 — O.L. Bodenhamer Post 74, Crestwood, Mo., 4; Penalty Box Sports (outside sponsor), Warwick, R.I., 1 Game No. 5 - Florida 4, Illinois 2 (Illinois out) Game No. 6 - Louisiana 6, Rhode Island 3 (Rhode Island out) Game No. 7 - Hawaii 6, California 1 Game No. 8 - Pennsylvania 7, Missouri 5 (10 innings) Game No. 9 - Louisiana 10, California 3 (California out) Game No. 10 - Florida 5, Missouri 4 (10 innings, Missouri out) Game No. 11 - Pennsylvania 6, Hawaii 3 Game No. 12 - Hawaii 15, Louisiana 3 (Louisiana out) Game No. 13 - Florida 5, Pennsylvania 1 Game No. 14 - Hawaii 7, Florida 4 (Florida out) Game No. 15 - Hawaii 5, Pennsylvania 4 (Hawaii 1980 champions) -aIns- 33L\
QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION HEADQUARTERS William M. Detweiler, Chairman Frederick Woodress, Director P.O. Box 1055 Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 (317) 635-8411
For Release 9-5-80
INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Due to the final day convention report of the National Security Commission, resolutions adopted from the report were too late for inclusion in the second ALNS convention issue. The following National Security resolutions have been adopted and will become the new mandate for guiding the organization this year:
NATIONAL SECURITY:
* Urge the United States to support a national strategy of peace through strength and that The American Legion, in principle, support the objectives of the Coalition for Peace through Strength.
* Urge the adoption of a new strategic nuclear policy, which will lead the U.S. to develop the needed strength to destroy Soviet strategic offensive capabilities, rather than the destruction of soft targets, and that together with these new capabilities that the U.S. develop the force structure necessary to defeat the Soviet Union, while minimizing destruction to the United States.
* Urge the Department of Defense to request, and the Congress to approve, the funds necessary to complete the development and deployment of the cruise missiles necessary to upgrade the nuclear deterrent capabilities of the United States.
* Urge the Administration and Congress to support continued procurement of the F-15 aircraft in the numbers required to insure that our Air Force will be able to achieve and maintain air superiority in any future conflict in which we may become engaged.
* Urge the Administration and the Congress to provide the authorization and funds required to maintain the originally planned production rate of 180 F-16 aircraft per year.
* Urge the Administration and Congress to provide full support to Air Force efforts to develop and deploy the M-X missile as expeditiously as possible to insure that the U.S. does not allow the Soviet Union to achieve a position of strategic superiority inimicable to our national security interests.
* Reaffirm the Legion's unaltered opposition to the compulsory registration of firearms.
* Sponsor and support legislation that war veterans service records should not be destroyed at the end of a 75 year period, as "proposed," and that the records be maintained by the National Archives and records service.
* Oppose the redrafting of veterans into active duty with the Armed Forces unless and until the Selective Service System is revitalized and returned to full status and that registration, classification and induction of all personnel available is completed.
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National Security, Page 2.
* Support the reinstitution of the induction authority of the military Selective Service Act; that induction be instituted at the earliest practicable date in sufficient numbers to insure adequate manning of the armed forces, using the "lottery system" of random selection; that certified conscientious objectors be required to perform service with the military medical department for periods of service equivalent to that of military draftees; and that no deferments or exemptions be granted to the physically qualified personnel, except to: (1) those satisfactorily engaged in the pursuit of medical or dental degrees and that such individuals be required to serve as military medical officers for a specified period following their certification; or (2) personnel enrolled in a Reserve Officer Training Corps program and that such personnel be obligated to serve no less than five years on active duty upon completion of such program.
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For Release 9-5-80
BOSTON--(ALNS)—The Florida delegation to The American Legion's 1980 national convention donated $231.36 to the Jimmy Fund August 19 — small change tossed by people watching the August 17 parade around Boston Common into a huge U.S. flag carried horizontally by that state's contingent.
Florida's department commander Ray Mattox and national executive committee delegate Billy Anderson presented a check for the amount to Mike Andrews, assistant director of the Jimmy Fund, a New England charity for cancer reserach and the care of children stricken by the disease, following Tuesday's opening session of the Legion's 62nd annual convention. The presentation was at the Legion's temporary national headquarters on the second floor of the John B. Hynes Veterans Auditorium.
The Florida group's parade flag — four highway lanes wide — grew so heavy with impromptu donations from the crowd during the two-mile march that it had to be supported from beneath.
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BOSTON—(ALNS)—M. LaReine Maxey of California was re-elected president of the National Association of Department Historians Aug. 16, 1980, at The American Legion's 62nd national convention in Boston, Mass.
Others elected include: Executive Vice President Hazel Carlson of Florida; Secretary-Treasurer Sylvia Hendry of California; Area I Vice President Delfo Barabani of Massachusetts; Area II Vice President Mary B. Howard of Georgia; Area III Vice President Minnie Belle Hickman, District of Columbia; Area IV Vice President Jean Redman of Minnesota; and Area V Vice President Dorothy Long of Colorado.
Appointments made by President Maxey to the Advisory Group are: Phillip Haddad, Oklahoma; Arnold Stockstad, North Dakota; and Greer McCallister, Ohio. Other appointed officers are: Chaplain Geraldine Hinman, Connecticut; Judge Advocate Dr. Harry Kretzler, Washington State; Historian Tom Hull, Indiana, Editor of the News Letter, Ethel Matuschka, Wisconsin; and Sergeant-at-Arms E. Willis Bjorge, North Dakota.
A memorial service was held for departed Historians.
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QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION —THE AMERICAN LEGION *Fbr X God \ HEADQUARTERS William M. Oetweiler, Chairman Frederick Woodress, Director and I] P.O. Box 1055 Country / Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 (317) 635 841 1
For Release 9-5-80
INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Vice President Walter Mondale of Minnesota paid a surprise visit to the 1980 World Series of American Legion Baseball Aug. 28 in Ely, Minn., where the eight finalists of nearly 4,000 American Legion certified baseball teams ware battling for The American Legion national championship.
The vice president threw out the first ball for the first game of an evening double header in the double elimination tournament, and watched the action from the stands with recently elected American Legion National Commander Michael J. Kogutek of Lackawanna, N.Y.
The eight teams who won their way into the World Series of American Legion Baseball are: Post 375, Palo Alto , Calif.; Sullivan Babcock Post 32 of Hialeah, Fla.; Homer Dahringer Post 28, Waukegan, 111.; Moilili Legion Baseball of Honolulu, Hi.;'crescent City Post 125, New Orleans, La.; Charles B. Yerger Post 471 of Boyertown, Pa.; Penalty Box Sports, Warwick, R.I.; and O.L. Bodenhamer Post 74 of Crestwood, Mo.
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INDIANAP0LIS—(ALNS)—The newly revised and updated edition of Need a Lift?, a comprehensive handbook of sources of financial aid for youths interested in higher education, is ready for release by The American Legion Education Program of the Americanism and Children & Youth Division.
The 136-page booklet contains sources of career, scholarship and loan information for all children, not only those of veterans. It details over $4 billion in available financial assistance, and has proven in the past to be an invaluable aid to students, parents and school officials.
Need a Lift?, now in its 30th annual edition, has been completely revised in keeping with the latest changes in financial aid availability, and for the first time includes a quick reference index to the section of the book dealing with Sources of Career Information, Sources of Scholarships and Other Forms of Financial Aid Available to All Students, and Sources of Loans for Students.
The book, which will be ready for delivery Oct. 1, 1980, is available for one dollar (pre-paid) per copy in quantities of less than 100, and for 75 cents each in quantities of 100 or more, from The American Legion National Emblem Sales, P.O. Box 1055, Indianapolis, Ind. 46206.
-aIns- Mf 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION D HEADQUARTERS William M. Detweiler, Chairman Frederick Woodress, Director P.O. Box 1055 m Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 (317) 635-8411
AMERICAN LEGION NEWS BRIEFS FOR WEEK ENDING 9-12-80
American Legion National Commander Michael J. Kogutek has stated his concern over recent public release of information by the Department of Defense about the new Stealth aircraft. * * *
The homecoming for The American Legion's new National Commander, Michael J. Kogutek of Lackawanna, N.Y., has been set for Oct. 10-12 at the Buffalo Hilton Hotel (at the waterfront), Church and Terrace, Buffalo, N.Y.
* * *
As a result of a class action suit, entitlement to a Michigan Vietnam Era Bonus may be extended to certain members who are or were Michigan residents. The Court established a Sept. 30, 1980, deadline for members to apply for such bonus.
* * *
Cablevision, a leading cable television trade publication, carried a full-cover photograph and feature story on The American Legion's Boys Nation program in its September 1 issue.
* * *
James G. Bourie of Alexandria, Va., has been named associate director for Economics with The American Legion's National Economic Commission.
***************************************** * * NOTICE * * This is a reminder to all post and department commanders and adjutants * that orders for The American Legion's new award-winning film, "A Special Day," * must be received at National Headquarters no later than September 26 to assure * arrival by Veterans Day. * * Designed for use before school audiences, organizations and television * public affairs programs on or before Veterans Day, the 10-minute, 16mm * documentary film features William Conrad (former star of the television series * "Cannon") as narrator. The film is an excellent visual addition to any * speaker scheduled for a Veterans Day presentation. It is also the only * historical Veterans Day film available in the nation. * * The film is available through National Emblem Sales at $90 per print. * This price includes the reel, plastic case and shipping charges. Legion * posts and departments interested in using this public relations tool during * Veterans Day observances should place their orders now with National Emblem * Sales, The American Legion, P.O. Box 1055, Indianapolis, Ind. 46206. * * ***************************************** * JJ5
OMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION HEADQUARTERS William M, Detweiler, Chairman Frederick Woodress, Director P.O. Box 1055 Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 (317) 635-8411
For Release 9-12-80
INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—American Legion National Commander Michael J. Kogutek has issued the following statement concerning recent public release of information by the Department of Defense about the new Stealth aircraft:
"Speaking for the 2.7 million members of The American Legion, I am concerned about recent revelations concerning the Stealth aircraft project. I am concerned that the commander of the Strategic Air Command, General Richard Ellis, found it nesessary to warn his superiors that ' ... Giving the Soviets advanced warning of a new technology system most certainly sounds the death knell of that system.' Release of the Stealth data may have elevated and enhanced the importance of this weapon system in the eyes of the Soviet leaders. These revelations have jeopardized U.S. security. Stealth represents a promising program for future generations. We insist that military secrets such as this be kept secure and that our national leaders refrain from releasing any kind of sensitive military information which might prove helpful to the Soviet Union."
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WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—The American Legion's Department of Connecticut has won that veterans organization's 1980 National Service Trophy for its work on behalf of veterans and their dependents.
Connecticut has 162 American Legion posts, of which 147 or 91 percent have active service officers and participate in rehabilitation activities. They coordinate volunteer activities and entertainment at all Veterans Administration medical centers located in the state, and raised $32,000 for rehabilitation efforts through the department's annual car raffle.
In addition, the department participates directly in the administration of the State of Connecticut Soldiers, Sailors and Marines Fund, which disbursed over $1.26 million in financial assistance to veterans and their dependents in the past year.
The National Service Trophy has been awarded annually since 1929. The other departments whose programs were considered for this year's award included California, Indiana, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee and Wyoming. The entries were judged by a panel of three Legion rehabilitation commission officials on the basis of program quality and effectiveness rather than department membership or money expended.
In a memorandum to department service officers and rehabilitation directors of The American Legion's 58 departments nationwide and overseas, R.E. Lyngh, director of the Legion's National Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission here, noted that nine entries were submitted in time for consideration at the Legion's annual national convention in Boston August 19-21. A tenth was ruled ineligible because it came too late, Lyngh said.
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QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION HEADQUARTERS m William M. Detweiler, Chairman Frederick Woodress, Director P.O. Box 1055 ■^^H Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 S^TJ (317) 635-8411
For Release 9-12-80
INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—The homecoming for The American Legion's new National Commander, Michael J. Kogutek of Lackawanna, N.Y., has been set for Oct. 10-12 at the Buffalo Hilton Hotel (at the waterfront), Church and Terrace, Buffalo, N.Y.
A reception and buffet is scheduled to be held on Friday, Oct. 10, at the Matthew Glab Post 1477, Lackawanna, N.Y., from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. (Buses will leave the Buffalo Hilton Hotel promptly at 7 p.m. and will return to the hotel at 9 p.m.)
A tour of Niagara Falls is planned for the homecoming guests on Saturday, Oct. 11, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday night, the homecoming banquet honoring Commander Kogutek is scheduled to kick off with cocktails at 6:30 p.m. at the Buffalo Hilton's Ballroom with the banquet following at 7:30 p.m.
The National Commander's homecoming event is being jointly sponsored by the Matthew Glab Post 1477, Erie County, Eighth District and the Department of New York.
For additional information, it is suggested that Legionnaires planning to attend the homecoming contact Leonard Baxter, Department Adjutant of New York, at Suite 400, 112 State Street, Albany, N.Y. 12207.
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WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—As a result of a class action suit, entitlement to a Michigan Vietnam Era Bonus may be extended to certain members who are or were Michigan residents, The Court established a September 30, 1980, deadline for members to apply for such bonus.
In view of the time constraint imposed by the Court, and the entitlement extended to members, it is requested this information concerning the extension be publicized through as many channels as possible.
Members may now qualify for a Michigan Vietnam Era Bonus if they meet ALL of the following conditions:
A. Entered military service as a citizen of a State OTHER THAN Michigan;
and
B. While in the service, became a RESIDENT of Michigan for at least six months after January 1, 1961;
and
C. While a RESIDENT of Michigan, completed 190 days of honorable service between January 1, 1961, and September 1, 1973.
-alns- 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION —THE AMERICAN LEGION HEADQUARTERS William M. Detweiler, Chairman Frederick Woodress, Director P.O. Box 1055 G3 Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 (317) 635-8411 For Release 9-12-80 TNDIANAP0LIS—(ALNS)—Cablevision, a leading cable television trade publication, carried a full-cover photograph and feature story on The American Legion's Boys Nation program in its September 1 issue. The Boys Nation article entitled "C-SPAN Focuses on Youth in Government" noted that an eight-hour program on Boys Nation will be transmitted to Cable Satellite Public Affairs Network (C-SPAN) affiliates Columbus Day, Oct. 13, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (EDT). Some highlights are the organization of the senate, discussions of different bills on the floor, the election of a president and vice president of Boys Nation and the segment that all representatives anticipate — a meeting with President Carter at the White House. -alns- WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—James G. Bourie of Alexandria, Va., has been named associate director for Economics with The American Legion's National Economic Commission. A combat veteran of the Vietnam War, Bourie served two years of duty with the 101st Airborne Division in 1966-68. He became active in veterans affairs at Bryant College, Smithfield, R.I., after he was discharged from the service in 1970. He served as president of the Vietnam Veterans Council in college and worked with the Legion and VFW on projects in his home town of Waterbury, Conn. After receiving his undergraduate degree in economics and marketing, Bourie attended the law school of George Mason University, Arlington, Va., graduating in 1977. He joined the Legion's Economic staff after working for the Solicitor's office, U.S. Department of Labor, where he was primarily involved with federal employees' compensation and federal tort claims. Bourie recently joined:American Legion Post 24, Alexandria, Va. He is married to the former Elizabeth Conley of Arlington, Va. The couple has one son, Jamie. -alns- ****************** CORRECTION ******************* * * * The American Legion News Service of September 5 incorrectly listed the * score of the third game of the double elimination tourney between Boyertown, * Pa., and New Orleans, La., as 2 to 2. The correct score was Pennsylvania 2, * Louisiana 1. * ****************************************** &t 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION HEADQUARTERS William M. Detweiler, Chairman Frederick Woodress, Director P.O. Box 1055 HI Indianapolis, I ndlana 46206 0 (317) 635-8411 For Release 9-12-80 INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—The following posts have been reported by their respective Department Adjutants to have enrolled a membership of 2,000 or more for 1980 as of July 31, 1980: DEPARTMENT MBSHP. POST CITY Nebraska 7,484 1. Lincoln Post No. 3 Lincoln Minnesota 7,392 2. Minneapolis-Richfield Post No, 435 Richfield Minnesota 4,826 3. Westphal Post No. 251 Robbinsdale Nebraska 4,118 4. Omaha Post No. 1 Omaha Arkansas 4,002 5. M.M. Eberts Post No. 1 Little Rock Louisiana 3,687 6. Lowe-McFarlane Post No. 14 Shreveport Maryland 3,307 7. Parkville Post No. 183 Parkville Smith Reynolds Post No. 14 Vancouver Washington 3,005 8. 2,938 William G. Carroll Post No 26 Minot North Dakota 9. 2,848 Capitol Post No. 1 Topeka Kansas 10. 2,843 Hickory Post No. 38 Hickory North Carolina 11. Wisconsin 2,796 12. Alonzo Cudworth Post No. 23 Milwaukee California 2,789 13. Los Angeles Police Post No. 381 Los Angeles Iowa 2,702 14. Hanford Post No. 5 Cedar Rapids Ohio 2,659 15. James Dickey Post No. 23 Portsmouth Leyden-Chiles-Wickersham Post No. 1 Denver Colorado 2,630 16. 2,557 Donelson Post No. 88 Donelson Tennessee 17. 2,540 Greenbelt Post No. 136 Greenbelt Maryland 18. 2,526 Adam Plewacki Post No. 799 Buffalo New York 19. 2,508 Gilbert C. Grafton Post No. 2 Fargo North Dakota 20. 2,467 Turner-Brandon Post No. 7 Clearwater Florida 21. 2,439 Morris Frock Post No. 42 Hagerstown Maryland 22. 2,375 Nicholson Post No. 38 Baton Rouge Louisiana 23. Pennsylvania 2,172 24. East Liberty Post No. 5 Pittsburgh Florida 2,157 25. Harvey W. Seeds Post No. 29 Miami Pennsylvania 2,147 26. Gen. Smedley D. Butler Post No. 701 McKeesport Pennsylvania 2,125 27. Red Lion Post No. 543 Red Lion New York 2,113 28. Capt. Clarence R. Oliver Post No. 154 Elmira Heights Arizona 2,106 29. Luke Greenway Post No. 1 Phoenix Nebraska 2,104 30. P.R. Halligan Post No. 163 North Platte Oklahoma 2,101 31. Huff-Minor Post No. 14 Ponea City Minnesota 2,070 32. Earl C. Hall Post No. 550 Bloomington New Mexico 2,063 33. Albuquerque Post No. 99 Albuquerque Arizona 2,060 34. Generals Ward and Chennault Post No. 1 Scotsdale Tennessee 2,051 35. Nashville Post No. 5 Nashville Minnesota 2,041 36. Austin Post No. 91 Austin West Virginia 2,033 37. Huntington Post No. 16 Huntington West Germany 2,017 ** 38. Harry S. Truman Post GR02 Frankfort Ohio 2,002 39. Marietta Post No. 64 Marietta Tennessee 2,001 40. Hammond Post No. 3 Kingsport * Affiliated with the Department of New York (Post in Exile). ** Affiliated wi£h Department of France. -alns- J2? QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION HEADQUARTERS Willi.im M. Detweiler, Chairman Frederick Woodress, Director P.O. Box 1055 G3 Indianapolis, I ndiana 46206 (31 7) G35-8411 AMERICAN LEGION NEWS BRIEFS FOR WEEK ENDING 9-19-80 The American Legion told the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee it will submit legislation next year requiring that a scientific study being conducted by the Veterans Administration on the long-range health effects of exposure to Agent Orange be completed by an independent agency. * * * A one-hour television program on voluntary prayer in public schools has been produced by Leadership Foundation and Leadership Action in cooperation with The American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary. * * * The Eight and Forty, an organization of American Legion Auxiliary members, has announced approval of twenty-four $1,500 Lung and Respiratory Disease Nursing Scholarship awards for one year's study to assist nurses in furthering their education. -alns- NEW KNOXVILLE, Ohio—(ALNS)—The National Commander of The American Legion, Michael J. Kogutek, told legionnaires and Auxiliary members here that after meeting with the Secretary of Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and other members of the Joint Chiefs he is "worried" about the security of our country. Speaking at the homecoming of Ohio Department Commander Tom Gabel, the Legion chief pointed out that a Federal Court Judge had added yet another personnel problem to the long list which military commanders are grappling with today -- that being the decision requiring the Air Force to reinstate an avowed homosexual to his former noncommissioned officer status. The National Commander went on to say that the all-volunteer concept is not providing the quality or the numbers of personnel needed. "We were told in Boston by the Army s recruiting commander that 40 percent of the non-high school graduates never complete their first term of enlistment. Service training manuals have had to be rewritten several times lowering the comprehension level because the bulk of the volunteers cannot understand them. The services are experiencing the greatest AW0L rate in their histories. And now, the court has added this new problem, the dimensions of which we do not yet know," Commander Kogutek added. Recalling statements made by military commanders during his recent visit in Washington, Commander Kogutek noted that Admiral Hayward was concerned about the growing Soviet naval strength and technology, and that Air Force General Allen expressed concern about the Stealth aircraft disclosures. Commander Kogutek pointed out that concern is not enough, and that the Legion's future and the future of our nation depends on action — not just words. -alns- 2.3 a CJMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION HEADQUARTERS William M. Detweiler, Chairman Frederick Woodless, Director P.O. Rox 1055 Indianapolis, Indiana 4G20G (31 /) 635 841 1 For Release 9-19-80 WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—The American Legion told the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee it will submit legislation next year requiring that a scientific study being conducted by the Veterans Administration on the long-range health effects of exposure to Agent Orange be completed by an independent agency. Testifying before the committee on September 10, John F. Sommer, Jr., assistant director of the Legion's National Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission, cited an earlier statement by Dr. Irving B. Brick, senior medical consultant to The American Legion, to a VA advisory panel that the results of a study conducted by an impartial body would be accepted more readily by the scientific community and by the veterans involved. Dioxin, a contaminant of the defoliant Agent Orange used in Vietnam, has been blamed for a variety of harmful effects on health and placed under partial bans by the Environmental Protection Agency. The VA, however, maintains that conclusive scientific evidence is lacking to link exposure to Agent Orange with diseases and disabilities. Sommer told the Senate committee that Resolution No. 110 adopted at The American Legion's 1980 National Convention mandates the veterans organization to sponsor and support legislation to assign the responsibility for the Agent Orange study to an independent agency such as the National Academy of Sciences, the National Institutes of Health or the Center for Disease Control. "We plan to submit draft legislation to that effect early in the 97th Congress," Sommer said. A copy of Resolution No. 110 was submitted for the record. In addition to urging Congressional action to require an independent study, it said: "Whereas the Veterans Administration study has become mired in bureaucracy to the point that very little progress has been forthcoming, and such bureaucratic inertia, the use of bureaucratic language, and the attitude of defense on the part of the Veterans Administration regarding the subject of Agent Orange has compounded the apprehensions of those veterans who have claims pending or who are potential, claimants... "Resolved, that The American Legion again urge the Administrator of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Veterans Benefits to take a more objective approach in the adjudication of claims for benefits for diseases and disabilities resulting from exposure to 'Agent Orange' until such time that conclusive scientific evidence is available, and to resolve all reasonable doubt in favor of veterans, their dependents and survivors, in claims for benefits based on exposure to 'Agent Orange.'" -alns- ^3/ QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION HEADQUARTERS William M. Deiweilei, Chairman Frederick Woodress, Director P.O. Box 1055 Indianapolis, Indiana 4620G (31 /) G35-8411 For Release 9-19-80 INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)--A one-hour television program on voluntary prayer in public schools has been produced by Leadership Foundation and Leadership Action in cooperation with The American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary. The program entitled, "Let Our Children Pray," is designed to rally supporters of school prayer into action behind legislation now pending in the House of Representatives. It also gives a dramatic accounting of the school prayer issue over the past eighteen years and makes a strong case why it should be passed by the Congress of the United States. Featured on the program are: Outgoing National Commander of The American Legion, FRANK I. HAMILTON. President JIMMY CARTER, who supports the Supreme Court's decisions. Governor RONALD REAGAN, who favors the return of voluntary school prayer. Senator JESSE HELMS (R-NC), author of the prayer amendment to S. 450 explaining his legislation and the thoughts of our founding fathers. Congressman PHILLIP CRANE (R-IL), who filed Discharge Petition No. 7 to force the legislation to the floor of the House for a vote on S. 450. Congressman Crane explains where his petition stands today and what supporters of school prayer must do in these closing days to see voluntary prayer restored in our public schools. ART LINKLETTER interviews a group of young children in a California playground on their reaction to school prayer. WILLIAM MURRAY, son of Madalyn O'Hair, apologizes to the youth of America and the nation for the part he played in the removal of prayer in public schools. MARTHA ROUNTREE, President of Leadership Foundation, shown testifying on school prayer before the House Judiciary Committee. The late Senator EVERETT DIRKSEN in one of his last appeals for the return of voluntary school prayer. ...Plus many other guests including Reverend JERRY FALWELL, Evangelist JAMES R0BIS0N, Country & Western Singer WENDELL AUSTIN singing his latest composition, LET S PUT PRAYER BACK IN OUR SCHOOLS, and many many more. Legionnaires and Auxiliary members interested in persuading any television station covering your area to carry this special public service program may telephone or write the following organizations for details: Mr. Oliver M. Presbrey or write: National Director Leadership Action Leadership Action P.O. Box 4808 Washington, D.C. Cleveland Park Station Telephone: (202) 667-1417 Washington, D.C. 20008 -alns- =?32 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION D HEADQUARTERS William M. Detweiler, Chairman Frederick Woodress, Director P.O. Box 1055 m Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 (317) 635-8411 For Release 9-19-80 INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—The Eight and Forty, an organization of American Legion Auxiliary members, has announced approval of twenty-four $1,500 Lung and Respiratory Disease Nursing Scholarship awards for one year's study to assist nurses in furthering their education. Recipients of the scholarships, upon completion of their studies in nursing, will be employed in either supervision, administration or teaching with a direct relationship to Lung and Respiratory Disease Nursing. In announcing this year's awards, Mrs. John Klemm, National Nursing Scholarship Chairman, said that during the past 24 years, the Eight and Forty has awarded 285 scholarships totalling $394,500 to help eliminate personnel shortages in this important area of nursing. Recipients approved for Scholarships for the 1980-81 school year are: NAME HOME STATE SCHOOL TO ATTEND Theresa M. Austin Atlanta, Georgia Emory University Linda M. Belcamino Bloomfield, New Jersey Seton Hall University Donna D. Brody Austin, Minnesota University of Minnesota Barbara J. Bryant Montrose, Iowa Iowa Wesleyan College Pamela M. Corrado Highwood, Illinois Coe College Susan M. Giles Tacoma, Washington Pacific Lutheran University Marlene J. Goodwin Yardville, New Jersey University of Pennsylvania Moira C. Gryniuk Brighton, Massachusetts Boston College Ann H. Harvey Baltimore, Maryland Johns Hopkins University Diana T. Hlebouy Elyria, Ohio Carlow College Susan M. Kloch Hastings, Nebraska Kearney State/Univ. of Nebraska Virginia M. Kvasnicka Petersburg, Virginia Medical College of Virginia Barbara A. Manion Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania Villanova University Dana J. McKaig Cleveland Heights, Ohio Case Western University Ann Morrison Brookline, Massachusetts Villanova University Margaret M. Plastek Wilmington, Delaware New York University Mary A. Raab Waynesville, Ohio University of Cincinnati Kenneth J. Szczepanski Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Indiana University Nancy L. Waggoner Indianapolis, Indiana Indiana University Medical Center Timothy J. Wagner Buffalo, New York State University at Buffalo Patricia N. Waugh Shawnee, Kansas University of Kansas Elaine G. Whelan Mahwah, New Jersey Seton Hall University Jill V. Willcox Advance, North Carolina Wake Forest University Mary A. Williams Mifflinville, Pennsylvania Bloomsburg State College Marci Zachary Hattiesburg, Mississippi University of Colorado Mrs. Elmer Martin, Le Chapeau National of Illinois, has advised that the Eight and Forty Nursing Scholarships will again be offered for the 1981-82 school year. Announcements regarding eligibility are available from Eight and Forty Scholarship Chairmen or The American Legion, Americanism and Children & Youth Division, P.O. Box 1055, Indianapolis, Ind. 46206, Attn: Eight and Forty Scholarships. -alns- J33 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION HEADQUARTERS William M. Detweiler, Chairman Frederick Woodress, Director P.O. Box 1055 m Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 (317) 635-8411 For Release 9-19-80 INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—J. Archie Corriveau, National Executive Committeeman of Canada, was recently elected President of the Foreign and Outlying Departments and Posts of The American Legion Association (FODPAL) succeeding William Uhde, Panama, for the 1980-1981 year. The election was conducted at the Association's annual meeting at the National Convention of The American Legion. Other officers elected included: 1st Vice President, Roberto Gonzalez Vasquez, NEC, Puerto Rico; 2nd Vice President, Gordon Ballantyne, Mexico; Treasurer, Frank Bottigliero, National Executive Committeeman, Italy; Historian, Richard Wilde, Panama; Judge Advocate, William Feliciano, Puerto Rico; Chaplain, C. Alvin Hoffman, Mexico; and Sergeant-at-Arms, Francisco B. Quesada, National Executive Committeeman, Philippines. Grandin E. Drake, Panama, was elected Treasurer Emeritus of FODPAL. President Corriveau appointed Honorary Member Mary B. Howard, Georgia, as Recording Secretary of FODPAL. The Association presented the FODPAL "Good Guy" Award to E. Roy Stone, National Executive Committeeman of South Carolina. Memorial services were conducted by FODPAL Chaplain C. Alvin Hoffman, Mexico. -alns- INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Anthony Casamento, a Legionnaire from West Islip, N.Y., who, after 38 years, was recently awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor, sent the following letter to immediate Past National Commander Frank I. Hamilton in appreciation for The American Legion's legal counsel: "On July 11, 1980, I was represented by Mr. Francis J. Henry, Supervisor Review and Correction Boards Unit, National Veterans Affairs unit of the Rehabilitation Commission of The American Legion, Washington, D.C., and Samuel C. Borzilleri Esquire, Legal Consultant for The American Legion before the Navy Department Board for the Correction of Naval Records. "As a proud and continuous 32-year member of The American Legion, I found The American Legion tops in their field in helping veterans. It was a great honor for me to meet such a dedicated and fine representative of The American Legion as Mr. Francis Henry. I found myself to be more than adequately represented by the very high quality and expertise of Mr. Henry. "I was overwhelmed at the fine professional job he did in condensing thirty-eight years of voluminous records in a succinct brief. His superb presentation left everyone in the room amazed and certainly was a great asset to my case. I know in my heart that this was only possible through many many hours of dedicated hard work. The American Legion will always have my undying gratitude." -alns- s*y 0MER1CAN LEGSON NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION HEADQUARTERS William M. Delweiler, Chairman Frederick Woodress, Director P.O. Box 1055 Indianapolis, I ndiana 46206 (317) 635-8411 AMERICAN LEGION NEWS BRIEFS FOR WEEK ENDING 9-26-80 American Legion National Commander Michael Kogutek was formally introduced to the Veterans Affairs Committees of the U.S. House and Senate September 23 and used the occasion to request full funding of veterans programs in a year of balanced budget cuts to keep faith with those who served in time of war. * * A Malcolm Toon, former U.S. Ambassador to the USSR, will be the featured speaker for American Legion National Commander Michael J. Kogutek's banquet for the Legion a National Executive Committee at 7 p.m. October 15 in the Royal Ballroom of the Hilton- Indianapolis. * * * To focus attention on the employment of the handicapped, especially disabled war veterans, The American Legion's National Economic Commission has announced its 34th annual observance of "National Employ the Handicapped Week, scheduled October 5-11, 1980, in conjunction with "President's Committee on Employment of the Handicapped. * * * II S Ambassador Diego C. Asencio was honored by The American Legion September 22 "for hls'pa^rlotism, courage and indomitable spirit" while a hostage of Marxist guerrillas in Bogota, Colombia, from February 27 to April 27, 1980. * * A Tapes of the Public Relations/Writing Workshops sponsored by the Public Relations Commission in Boston during the 62nd annual convention are now available. -alns- *********************** ********* A A A A A A A A A * * * * ATTENTION: Users of Veterans Day Radio Tapes * A * If you ordered your radio tapes for Veterans Day prior to September 15, A * A please check the suggested opening and closing notes for the station * A announcers enclosed with the tape. About 25 tapes got out with ^correct * A notes mentioning the 61st Anniversary of the Armistice ending World War I, * A and the date of November 11, 1979. These, of course, are incorrect, and * A the notes should read the 62nd Anniversary, and the date should be * A November 11, 1980. * A * A A A A A A A A A A A ****************** A A * * A A A A A o?3,r GNERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION HEADQUARTERS William M. Delweiler, Chairman Frederick Woodress, Director P.O. Box 1055 Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 (317) 635-8411 For Release 9-26-80 WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—American Legion National Commander Michael Kogutek was formally introduced to the Veterans Affairs Committees of the U.S. House and Senate Sept. 23 and used the occasion to request full funding of veterans programs in a year of balanced budget cuts to keep faith with those who served in time of war. It was not Kogutek's first visit to Capitol Hill. The day after President Carter addressed the Legion's annual national convention in Boston August 21 — and the day after the Lackawanna, N.Y., plant executive was elected to a one-year term as leader of the nation's largest veterans organization — Carter vetoed a pay raise for Veterans Administration doctors. Kogutek then flew to Washington to successfully seek a Congressional override of the action. Noting first that VA appropriations are still pending for Fiscal Year 1981 which begins this October 1, the Legion National Commander told legislators, "We understand the pressures that have affected both the Congress and the President in the effort to balance the budget. We are concerned, however, that in the budget allocations, necessary programs providing benefits to veterans, their dependents and survivors, are being cut back, when in our judgment, they should not be," Kogutek said. "We know that Congress has a long list of priorities of those who have a claim on the Federal Government for support and assistance. We submit that veterans should be at the top of that list," the Legion National Commander said without apology. "Veterans are those who defended the national interest at risk of life and limb in time of war and actual hostilities ... (and) defense of the national interest is the highest priority of all nations..." The newest generation of veterans is the best example of that doctrine," Kogutek went on. "Vietnam era veterans served in an unpopular war that did not have, the full support of the American people. However, the veterans themselves answered the call of the elected government, and did their duty as bravely and unswervingly as have all other generations of veterans. That being so, this is not the time to reduce their benefits on the grounds that the government can no longer afford to do what it promised when they were called to service," Kogutek said. The Legion chief was introduced to the House Veterans Affairs Committee by his own congressman, Rep. Henry J. Nowak, D-N.Y., of Buffalo. In his appearance before the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, he was flanked by the two senators from his state, Republican Jacob Javits and Democrat Daniel P. Moynihan. Kogutek presented to the lawmakers Frank Momsen, Legion National Adjutant; Mrs. Dora Seymour of Kansas, National President of the American Legion Auxiliary; Mrs. Romaine Roethel, national vice president; Mrs. Miriam Junge, national secretary; and Mrs. Margaret Yankovich, chairman of the Auxiliary's National Legislative Committee. At the witness table with him were Bill Lenker, chairman, and Robert Lyngh, director, of the Legion's National Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission, and Albert D. Brown Jr., chairman, and Mylio Kraja, director, of the Legion's National Legislative Commission. -aIns- J3& QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE 8TM NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION HEADQUARTERS William M. Delweilei, Chairman Frederick Woodress, Director P.O. Box 1055 m Indianapolis, I ndiana 46206 (317) 635-841 1 For Release 9-26-80 INDIANAPOLIS--(ALNS)—Malcolm Toon, former U.S. Ambassador to the USSR, will be the featured speaker for American Legion National Commander Michael J. Kogutek's banquet for the Legion's National Executive Committee at 7 p.m. Oct. 15 m the Royal Ballroom of the Hilton-Indianapolis. Toon served as U.S. Ambassador to the Soviet Union from December 1976 to October 1979 He was awarded the Department of State's Distinguished Honor Award in November 1979* Prior to serving in Moscow, he was U.S. Ambassador to Israel from June 1975 to December 1976; to Yugoslavia from October 1971 to May 1975; and to Czechoslovakia from June 1969 to October 1971. His previous service included assignments to U.S. Embassies in Warsaw, Budapest, Rome, London, Moscow (twice) and the Department of State as Director of Soviet Affairs, 1965-68, and Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European Affairs, 1968-69. A Navy veteran of World War II, Toon served principally as a PT-boat skipper in the South Pacific. Toon has delivered presentations before numerous groups on "The Nature of the Soviet Threat and How We Should Deal With It." The National Commander's banquet will be the highlight of the annual Fall Meetings of The American Legion here. Climaxing the event will be the meetings of the National Executive Committee, the organization's policy-making body between national conventions, to be conducted Wednesday and Thursday, Oct. 15 and 16, at Legion National Headquarters. These sessions will be presided over by National Commander Kogutek. Manor national Commission and Committee meetings will be in progress at National Headquarters on Monday and Tuesday, Oct. 13 and 14, at the same time as the annual meeting of Commanders and Adjutants will be taking place. -alns- WASHINGTON—(ALNS) —To focus attention on the employment of the handicapped^ especially disabled war veterans, The American Legion's National Economic Commission has announced its 34th annual observance of "National Employ the Handicapped Week, scheduled October 5-11, 1980, in conjunction with "President's Committee on Employment of the Handicapped." This employment program is culminated with national Legion recognition bestowed upon employed Sose personnel policies favor the employment and retention of handicapped workers The Legion's National Economic Commission is making a special appeal to ail Legion departments to participate and recognize employers by the presentation of the Legion's National Handicapped Citation Award. For further information on this national employment program, contact The American Legion's National Economic Commission, 1608 K Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20006. -alns- ,237 EJMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION HEADQUARTERS William M. Detweilei, Chairman Frederick Woodress, Director P.O. Box 1055 -totqpj El Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 (317) 635 8411 For Release 9-26-80 WASHINGTON— (ALNS)— U.S. Ambassador Diego C. Asencio was honored by The American Legion September 22 "for his patriotism, courage and indomitable spirit" while a hostage of Marxist guerrillas in Bogota, Colombia, from February 27 to April 27, 1980. After the presentation of a plaque at the Washington Office of the veterans organization, Ambassador Asencio told National Commander Michael Kogutek he d like to become a"Legionnaire. Kogutek signed him up on the spot, and the Korean War veteran 3became a member of State Department Post No. 68 of The American Legion. Asencio was commended by the Legion for his fearless calm and good humor that uplifted the spirits of his fellow diplomatic captives during the 61-day ordeal. The ambassador challenged the Marxist ideology of the guerrillas holding him hostage and defended the value of democratic principles and free enterprise m debate with his captors, shaking their belief in violence and their simple leftist dogmas. Asencio, now Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs at the State Department, is writing a book about his experiences as a diplomatic hostage m Latin \ America. He gave an example of his unflappable humor at the Legion award ceremony by noting that during his long confinement in close contact with the guerrillas, the diplomats proved inferior to their captors in cooking skill. Attending the presentation ceremony in the commander's office were National Adiutant Frank Momsen; G. Michael Schlee, director of the Legion's National Security/ Foreign Relations Division; and Samuel Dickens and Frank Manson of the division staff in Washington. -alns- INDIANAPOLIS-CALNS)—Tapes of the Public Relations/Writing Workshops sponsored by the Public Relations Commission in Boston during the 62nd annual convention are now available. Five tapes of the entire workshop, including the general two-hour session, the two-hour workshop on writing, and the two-hour workshop on time management, cost 516. Individual tapes of the writing workshop or the Public Relations/Time Management Workshop cost $8.98 each. Make out your check to Masscasting and send it in care of the Public Relations Division! Box 1055, Indianapolis, Ind. 46206. Your check and order will be forwarded to the Boston company with the tapes mailed directly to your home. -alns- WASHINGTON-(ALNS)-President Carter has designated Nov. 11 as Veterans Day He said the special day is set aside to thank America's veterans for their unselfish sacrifice and service" and called on all Americans to support this year's Veterans Day theme - "A grateful nation remembers" - and to show gratitude by visiting ill and disabled veterans in Veterans Administration medical centers across the land. -alns- 238 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION HEADQUARTERS William M. Detweiler, Chairman Frederick Woodress, Director P.O. Box 1055 m Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 (317) 635-841 1 For Release 9-26-80 EMPLOYMENT TIPS FOR VETS A CONTINUING ALNS SERIES ON VETERAN'S EMPLOYMENT RIGHTS IN COOPERATION WITH THE LEGION'S NATIONAL ECONOMIC COMMISSION AND THE U.S. DEPT. OF LABOR Court Allows Veterans' Class Action Case A federal court in Atlanta has ruled that the federal government may file a class action suit on behalf of a group of veterans who contend that their military service should be counted as work time in computing pension benefits from their civilian jobs. The ruling by Judge Horace T. Ward of the U.S. District Court for Northern Georgia, Atlanta Division, allows the first class action case under the Veterans' Reemployment Rights Act (VRRA) to proceed. The case involves Austin K. Letson and 31 other employees of Liberty Mutual Insurance Company who are disputing the company's failure to include their military service in computing the years of work on which their retirement benefits are based. They are being represented by the government under the VRRA. Liberty Mutual argued that the government could not represent a VRRA plaintiff in a class action. Judge Ward ruled that the Veterans' Reemployment Rights Act does not bar class actions. "There is no indication in the Act's legislative history that Congress intended to limit representation of plaintiffs by government attorneys to actions other than those on behalf of a class, and such an interpretation does not arise from a reading of the VRRA," he said. The company also argued that the case was not a proper one for handling as a class action even if the government doesn't represent the veterans. The court ruled, however, that the plaintiff and the 31 other veterans constitute a proper class. The class action requirements of "numerosity, commonality, typicality and adequate protection by the representative party of the interests of the class as a whole...are easily satisfied in the present case," Judge Ward said. The purpose of the veterans' reemployment rights law is to ensure that men and women who serve in their country's military forces do not lose their jobs or other employment benefits because of such service. The law basically entitles veterans to reinstatment by their pre-service employers with the seniority, status, and rate of pay they would have attained with reasonable certainty if they had not gone into the military. The veterans' reemployment rights law is administered by the Labor-Management Services Administration's Office of Veterans' Reemployment Rights. Persons wanting information about the law or assistance with claims under it should contact the nearest LMSA field office or the Office of Veterans' Reemployment Rights, LMSA, U.S. Department of Labor, Washington, D.C. 20216. -alns-