NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION 338 INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters

AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS)

LEGION NEWS BRIEFS FOR WEEK ENDING 10-2-61+

Newly elected National Commander Donald E. Johnson of The American Legion has wired his congratulations to Sen. Richard B. Russell (D-Ga.) and Rep. F. Edward Hebert (D-La.), respective chairmen of the Senate and House Armed Services Committees, and their colleagues who supported the passage of H.R. 9124, the Reserve Officers Training Corps vitalization bill. The Senate version of the ROTC bill passed on Sept. 29, and modified only slightly the bill passed by the House on June 23, 1964.

A district commander in the Indiana American Legion is now toting around a live duck named "Goldbrick" while 10 other district commanders are trying to make sure that he keeps the duck in his possession. The duck will be around all year to pester the commander whose district has the lowest per- centage of quota of 1965 memberships.

The National Emblem Sales of The American Legion has announced that a new life membership tab, an inverted arc which fits below the past officer button or the regular Legion button, is now available.

The American Legion and the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) are "essentially two membership organizations that grew out of chaotic conditions," Richard F. Walsh, vice president of the AFL-CIO, has told Legionnaire delegates who attended the 46th National Convention in Dallas, Tex.

"National Employ the Handicapped Week" this year will be observed the week of Oct. 4-10, and The American Legion is again cooperating in the nationwide observance of the program, the Legion's National Economic Commission has announced. NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION 339 INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) FOR BMEDIATE RELEASE 10-2-6U WASHINGTON -(ALUS)- Newly elected National Conmander Donald E. Johnson of

The American Legion has wired his congratulations to Sen. Richard B. Russell (D-Ga.)

and Rep. F. Edward Hebert (D-La.), respective chairmen of the Senate and House Armed

Services Committees, and their colleagues who supported the passage of H.R. 912k, the

ROTC vitalization bill. The Senate version passed on Sept. 29, modified only slightly the bill passed by the House on June 23, 196k.

In his telegram National Commander Johnson stated that "since its very earliest

days The American Legion has been a staunch supporter of the Reserve Officers Training

Programs in high schools, colleges and universities. As an organization we are most

pleased to see that the Congress has strengthened the program that we believe to be

the backbone of officer procurement for the armed services."

If signed into Law by the President, the bill will expand the Junior ROTC pro-

gram to 1,200 high schools and offer new attractions in the senior ROTC program at the college level.

In the House hearings, Defense Secretary Robert S. McNamara opposed the junior

ROTC expansion as having no military value. Both the House and Senate overruled this

objection and ordered the expansion.

The legislation would also provide authority for a two-year senior ROTC program

in colleges and universities along with the existing four-year program.

The bill makes provision for Army and Air Force scholarships not to exceed a total of 5,500 students by 1965, at an average of about $800 per student. The Navy under its Holloway Plan has had a four-year ROTC scholarship program for years.

Scholarship students would be eligible for $50 per month during the academic year.

The bill also contains authority for a uniform allowance of $300 for ROTC grad- uates accepting a regular Army commission as well as increases for summer training pay and travel allowances. 340 NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS] FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-2-64

INDIANAPOLIS —(ALNS) — A district commander in the Indiana American Legion

is now toting around a live duck named "Goldbrick", while 10 other district com-

manders are trying to make sure that he keeps the duck in his possession. The

Legion commander whose district had the lowest percentage of quota of 1965 member-

ships on Aug. 29 was the first to assume custody of "Goldbrick."

The duck will be around all year to pester the low ranking (membership-wise)

districts. At the start of this year's membership drive, the district commanders all

signed an agreement that should they have custody of "Goldbrick", that he would

accompany them, be properly introduced, and placed upon display at all meetings and

Legion functions during the time that the duck was in their care and control.

MONTPELIER, Vt. — (ALNS)— The Vermont American Legion is the 15th depart-

ment to go over its 196k membership goal. The Green Mountain State on Sept. 2k

reported an enrollment of 11,531 Legionnaires or 100.37 per cent of the department's

goal of 11,1489. A message of congratulations has been sent by National Commander

Donald E. Johnson to past department commander Albert B. Grazini of Rutland, Vt.

INDIANAPOLIS —(ALNS)— The National Emblem Sales of The American Legion has announced that a new life membership tab has been approved and is now available. The tab is a inverted arc which fits below the past officer button and will work equally well below the regular American Legion button.

The life membership tab is available in 10K gold quality at $1.80 each plus 18^ federal excise tax and in 14K gold at $2.1)0 each plus 2k$ federal excise tax. Proper certification of an individual's life membership should accompany each order. Orders should be placed direct with the National Emblem Sales, The American Legion, P.O. Box 1055, Indianapolis, Ind. 46206. On all orders under $3.00, add 25$ for postage and handling. NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION 341 INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-84U National Headquarters AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-2-64

DALLAS, Tex. —(ALNS) — The American Legion and the American Federation

of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) are "essentially two

membership organizations that grew out of chaotic conditions," Richard F. Walsh,

vice president of the AFL-CIO, has told the Legionnaire delegates that attended the

46th National Convention.

Speaking at the final business session in Dallas Memorial Auditorium on

Sept. 24, Walsh noted that the Legion grew out of a war while the AFL-CIO grew out

of a labor war because people wanted representation.

"Therefore, we go into legislation together and we have been able to work

together to see that the veterans have received some of the Justice they deserve

under the laws of our country and, of course, you have aided us in many of our moves

in connection with the advancement of the American labor movement," Walsh said.

In his address to the 46th National Convention, Walsh directed his remarks

to the increasing growth of juvenile delinquency in this country. "Although this is

probably an unpopular subject to bring up before fathers and mothers, it is probably

no more unpopular than when we (The American Legion and the AFL-CIO) started our

fight against communism many years ago."

The AFL-CIO vice president stated that "what we have to do is to educate the

parents. In order to wipe out juvenile delinquency the job must start in the home." NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION 342 INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters

AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-2-6U

WASHINGTON — (ALNS) — "National Employ the Handicapped Week" this year will

be observed the week of Oct. U-10, and The American Legion is again cooperating in

the nationwide observance of the program, the Legion's National Economic Commission has announced.

The President's Committee on Employment of the Physically Handicapped has been

continuously supported by The American Legion since Congress adopted a resolution on Aug. 11, I92+5, establishing "NEPH Week."

The associate members of the committee, consisting of the President's cabinet,

the chairman of the U.S. Civil Service Commission, the administrator of the General

Services Administration and the director of the Office of Emergency Planning, have

issued the following Joint statement supporting this movement;

"We are convinced that the hire-the-handicapped program is not only economi-

cally sound, but morally and socially just. Therefore, we pledge ourselves to in-

creased efforts to show this country and the world what can be done to utilize to the

fullest extent possible the skills, talents, and capabilities of our disabled veterans and other handicapped citizens."

Departments are urged by the National Economic Commission to participate 100

per cent in support of this worthwhile program by awarding an authorized certificate

of appreciation to an employer of each state who is selected by department officials

for doing an outstanding job in hiring the handicapped, especially the disabled war veteran.

American Legionnaires are also urged to remind their communities and local business concerns of this important non-partisan effort. NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION 343 INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-84U National Headquarters AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-2-64

ALBUQUERgjE, N.M. —(ALBS)— American Legionnaire Joe E. Staley was a

candidate for department commander of the New Mexico American Legion in 1962 when

he was stricken with cancer and had to have his voice box removed. But Staley, then

62 years old, was determined to learn how to speak again.

For a few weeks after the operation on May 22, 1962, his only means of

communication was writing on a child's slate that made the writing disappear when

you pulled up the top sheet. However, in 11 months he learned to talk again, can

use the telephone, and is more than happy to speak with people.

He worked with a speech therapist at the Veterans Hospital in Albuquerque,

N.M., for about six weeks after the operation. He first learned to say the vowels.

He read in a book how to form the letter "k" and soon was able to say "okay". Staley

said he reversed "okay" and added a second word to his vocabulary — "kayo".

Long-time Legionnaire Staley has no vocal cords to form vibrations so he

speaks by gulping air and forcing it out through his mouth. He makes use of the

muscles at the back of the mouth to help form his words.

After his discharge from the hopsital, he caramuted from his home in Santa Fe to Albuquerque for another six weeks, two days a week, to attend 30 minute classes. A veteran of both world wars, Staley said his greatest disappointment after he learned he would lose his voice was that he would not be able to participate in The American Legion's high school oratorical contests. But in April 1963 Staley, a member of American Leg. on Post No. 1, Santa Fe, served as national representative for the Region 10 high school oratorical contest. Having his voice box removed hasn't proved to be a handicap to this brave Legion- naire. This summer he climaxed a long and colorful career as a dedicated Legionnaire, when he was elected department commander of the Land of Enchantment state. Department Commander Staley, active in the New Mexico Lost Chord Club, has been instrumental in establishing a Lost Chord Club in his homestate for the purpose of recruiting laryngectomees such as himself to lead normal lives again. NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION 344 INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters

AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS)

LEGION NEWS BRIEFS FOR WEEK ENDING 10-9-61+

One of the last major actions of the 88th Congress taken just before adjournment of that body on Oct. 3 was a big step toward a long-standing rehabilitation-legis- lative objective of The American Legion in the passage of H.R. 1927. Now awaiting the signature of the President, the bill calls for an increase in veterans pension rates, and a limited re-opening of G.I. insurance for those with service-connected disability or those who have an impairment which makes them uninsurable with private companies.

Lt. Col. Helen Purviance, the Salvation Army "Sally" who in World War I gave the doughnut its halo in American folklore and legend will be cited by The American Legion at its fall meeting in Indianapolis, Ind.

Guest speaker for National Commander Donald E. Johnson's banquet to the National Executive Committee on Oct. 21 will be Dr. Stefan Possony of Stanford University, a recognized authority on international affairs and the strategy of communism.

The American Legion Insurance Department in Chicago, 111. has announced that the 1965 life insurance renewals have been mailed to some 90,000 insured Legionnaires.

The mth edition of "Need A Lift?", The American Legion's education and scholar- ship handbook, is available now for distribution to local high schools and libraries as a post project during the observance of American Education Week, Nov. 8-m.

Continuance of the military draft and the anti-poverty program are supported by The American Legion, National Commander Donald E. Johnson has reported in his first press conference in Indianapolis, Ind.

The U.S. State Department "is made up by and large of capable and dedicated public servants in whom the nation can place much confidence," an American Legion special liaison committee to the State Department has reported.

The American Legion has won its fight to eliminate provisions of the foreign aid bill that would have permitted separation of Agency for International Development (AID) employees, irrespective of Civil Service and Veterans Preference laws and regulations.

Congress has approved and sent to the President, bill H.R. 2^34 (amended) that would provide pensions of $100 per month beginning at age 40 to Congressional Medal of Honor recipients. NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION 345 INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-9-61+

WASHINGTON (ALNS) One of the last major actions of the 88th Congress taken just before adjournment of that body on Oct. 3 was a big step toward a long-standing rehabilitation-legislative objective of The American Legion in the passage of H.R. 1927.

The bill, now awaiting the signature of the President, calls for an increase in veterans pension rates, and a limited re-opening of G.I. insurance for those with service-connected disability or those who have an impairment which makes them unin- surable with private companies. If the bill is not returned by the President within 10 days (Sunday excepted) after it is presented to him, the same shall become law in like manner as if he had signed it, unless Congress by adjournment prevents its return; in which case it shall not be a law.

Earlier, The American Legion noted that "while it does not provide the full extent of improvements sought in our original bill, it moves a long step forward in correcting provisions of P.L. 86-211, which the Legion deemed inequitable and has sought to alter since 1960." This is the first embracive pension legislation to pass since the enactment of P.L. 86-211, four years ago.

The bill increases pensions for needy veterans and authorizes 3ome eight million fomer servicemen the chance to reinstate lapsed National Service Life Insurance (NSLI) policies. The insurance section of the bill, added by the Senate after the House had passed a straight pension measure, was a compromise which may have ended a 10-year squabble between the two chambers.

Seven times the Senate, under the prodding of Sen. Russell B. Long (D-La.) has approved a reopener for veterans who allowed their wartime insurance policies to lapse. Each time the proposal has died in the House. This time, however, the House gave ground in order to salvage the pension bill and avoid a flood of veterans' protests.

Important elements of H.R. 1927 (amended) in brief are: The 10 per cent disability requirement at age 65 remains; the aid and attendance allowance, in addition to pension, increased from $70 to $100 monthly; an in between and first time allowance of $35 in addition to pension, for housebound, though not requiring aid and allowance. A 10 per cent exclusion of Social Security, public and private retirement programs, from consideration as veteran's income; earned income of spouse will not be included as veteran's income but unearned income over $1,200 annually would count. Reopen NSLI (but not on term), for one year, for all veterans with service- connected disability, providing health standards aside from service-connected dis- ability are met. Provides that veterans with nonservice-connected disability may obtain NSLI if they cannot obtain commercial insurance, even at standard rates such as elevated premiums. (In all x;ases the insured would pay administrative costs of about $5 per year.)

The NSLI provision will not be effective until six months after the President's signature, which will provide extra time to alert veterans and to give the Veterans Administration time to gear up. The effective date of the pension increases will be Jan. 1, 1965. The VA will call for annual reports from beneficiaries in the meantime. 346 NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters

AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-9-6U

IKDIAHAPOLIS — (ALNS)--- The Salvation Army "Sally" who in World War I gave

the doughnut its halo in American folklore and legend will be cited by The American

Legion at its fall meeting here in the Hoosier capital. Lt. Col. Helen Purviance,

the Salvation Army lassie \

the doughboys fighting in France in 1917-18 will be presented the Legion National

Commander's Award on Wednesday evening Oct. 21, at the National Commander's banquet

honoring the National Executive Committee.

Miss Purviance of Huntington, Ind., and Palm Beach, Fla., was one of the

original "Hallelujah Lassies," as the doughboys also called the Salvation Army

lassies, dispatched to France with American troops in 1917. Along with other

Salvation Army personnel, she carried her freshly baked doughnuts into the trenches,

often under heavy enemy shell fire.

Soon the grateful soldiers were writing hone about the lassies and their tasty

doughnuts and coffee; the lassies became heroines not only in France but back home as

well. In almost no time at all, the Salvation Army raised $1 million back home for

its war effort and the doughnuts and coffee enshrined the Army in American hearts.

The text on the special plaque Colonel Purviance will receive from National

Commander Donald E. Johnson reads in part:

"In recognition of singular humanitarian service to the men of the American

Expeditionary Forces of World War I when, as an Ensign in the Salvation Army, she

introduced the practice of serving doughnuts and hot coffee to the men in the trenches

on the battlefields of France. . . For her fearless and unswerving devotion to her

cause, Ensign Purviance provided a touch of home and a vital boost to the morale of

the war-weary soldiers who later founded The American Legion, and on whose behalf

this plaque is presented as a token of their everlasting gratitude."

MORE Salvation Army "Sallie" (continued) - Page 2 - 347

The plaque will include, appropriately, a gold replica of the doughnut which by the simple act of Miss Purviance was given a lasting place in American folklore and World War I legend.

xSalvation Army officials who will attend the banquet include Commissioner

Holland French, National Commander of the Salvation Army from New York City.

Commissioner French is scheduled to speak before the Legion's National Executive

Committee on Thursday Oct. 22.

Guest speaker for National Commander Johnson's banquet to the NEC will be

Dr. Stefan Possony, director of the International Studies program for the Hoover

Institution at Stanford University, Stanford, Calif. Doctor Possony is a recognized authority on international affairs and the strategy of communism.

Commanders and Adjutants Conference

The Legion's annual Commanders and Adjutants Conference is scheduled for

Oct. 19-20 at National Headquarters. At this time the department officials will be briefed on the Legion programs for the coming year.

A team of management specialists from the University of Iowa, comprised of Don

Sheriff and Jude West of the University's Bureau of Labor and Management, will speak before the group. The two specialists will instruct the key people in the organiza- tional structure of the Legion in proven methods as to how to get performance out of their respective offices and from the people with whom they will be working.

WASHINGTON —(ALNS)-— National Commander Donald E. Johnson of The American Legion and Mrs. Johnson, accompanied by the I96U-65 National Vice Commanders and their wives, attended a reception at the White House recently given by President Lyndon B. Johnson for leaders of the nation's veterans' organizations.

The affair was attended by some 150 persons, including President and Mrs. Johnson; Dean Rusk, secretary of state; Robert S. McNamara, secretary of defense; other members of the Cabinet and the Congress. EWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION 348 INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-9-64

CHICAGO —(ALNS)— The American Legion Insurance department has announced

that the 1965 life insurance renewals have been mailed to some 90,000 insured American

Legionnaires.

Members must report 1965 membership card numbers and remit payments for

insurance ($12.00 for the half unit or $24.00 for the full unit of coverage) on or

before midnight, Dec. 31, 1964.

Insured Legionnaires who have moved and failed to notify the insurance depart-

ment should send their remittances to: The American Legion, Insurance Department,

P. 0. Box 5609, Chicago, 111. 60680, being certain to include their I965 membership

card number and insurance number.

The insurance department reports that thousands of Legionnaires have already

renewed insurance and reported 1965 memberships. However, the department also urges

insured members not to wait until December to secure next year memberships.

INDIANAPOLIS — (ALNS)-— New American Legion posts chartered during September

1964 numbered 10. The world's largest veterans organization also chartered three new

Sons of The American Legion squadrons. New posts and squadrons are as follows:

Department Post or Squadron Commander City PENNSYLVANIA Curtis Bok Memorial Post 45 Anthony J. Croce Philadelphia PUERTO RICO Luis Pacheco Lespier Post 125 Antonio Acosta Robert! Ponce Playa, Ponce WISCONSIN David Valdes Post 529 Roy M. Rodriguez Milwaukee PUERTO RICO Round Hill Post 126 Everett L. Leavitt Round Hill ILLINOIS Glendale Heights Post 1278 Joseph Coretti Glendale Hgts CALIFORNIA Electricians Post 534 George J. Sherrard Los Angeles CALIFORNIA Huntington Valley Post 708 Huntington Beach NEW JERSEY River Vale Post 477 George Stegura River Vale NORTH CAROLINA Louis Williamson Post 257 James D. Malloy Parkton NORTH CAROLINA Lewis Marshall Foster Post 26l Joseph T. Canupp Southmont INDIANA Millard-Brown Squadron 156 Montpelier VIRGINIA Petersburg Squadron 2 Petersburg OHIO Foody-Cornwell Squadron 95 Xenia NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION 349 INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-9-6U

INDIANAPOLIS —(ALNS)— The Urth edition of "Need a Lift?", The American

Legion's education and scholarship handbook, is available for distribution to local

high schools and libraries as a post project during the observance of American

Education Week, Nov. 8-lk. The handbook contains information about hundreds of

college and vocational school scholarships for qualified high school students.

The Legion's Education and Scholarship Program estimtes that there will be

available sources of scholarships, loans, and part-time jobs in excess of one billion

dollars to assist students during the next school year.

This year's edition of "Need a Lift?" was researched and compiled with the

cooperation of 187 national organizations interested in assisting students in the

selection of careers and with resources to further their education. Posts are en-

couraged to secure at least five copies of "Need a Lift?" which can be purchased

for $1.00 (prepaid) from: The American Legion, Dept. S, P. 0. Box 1055, Indianapolis, Ind. 1+6206.

Posts and Auxiliary units which purchase five copies of the handbook will receive a Junior GI Bill poster suitable for posting in schools or libraries. In- cluded also in this packet will be a suggested news release for local newspapers, radio, and television stations. The news release will enable posts to bring this fine American Legion service to the attention of all persons in the community, thereby offering parents and students alike the opportunity to share the valuable information contained in "Need a Lift?".

jAs another service for young people, it is recommended that copies of the up- dated Guide for Parents and Students" be purchased for distribution to each high school student to share with his parents for planning his education beyond high school. The Guide ' has received national recognition on the blue page of the United States News and World Report, and The Journal of The American Personnel and Guidance Association. Among the first orders for the updated "Guide" were requests for 5,00*6 copies each from Munich, Germany Post 8 (Department of France) and the Department of North Dakota.

1 mn C°Pies of *he "Guide" can be secured for printing and postage cost of $5 per 1,000 copies, or $2.50 for 500 copies by directing orders to: The American Legion, Education and Scholarship Program, Dept. A., P. 0. Box 1055, Indianapolis, Ind. U6206. NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION 350 INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-9-6<+

INDIANAPOLIS —(ALNS)~ Continuance of the military draft and the anti-poverty program are supported by The American Legion, National Comnander Donald E. Johnson has reported in his first press conference here.

In meeting the press corps of the National Headquarters city, Johnson stated, "In national security we have been consistent proponents of a system of national

defense that will serve as a deterrent to any would-be aggressor." He said he did

agree that "some pre-determined plan" should be made in regard to NATO commanders using battlefield nuclear weapons.

Concerning the draft, National Commander Johnson said he supported the recent passage of a resolution approved by the National Convention in Dallas, Tex., for its

continuance "because we think it's the best way to fulfill the needs of the service."

A father of nine children, Commander Johnson noted that he intended to place major emphasis on the strengthening of American Legion programs designed to best serve the young people of America.

"I say without reservation, that The American Legion has done more for the youth of America than any other single service organization in the country, and I know that with our rapidly expanding population that in the years immediately ahead we will have much more to do," Johnson said.

He lauded the Legion's Boys State and Boys Nation programs; the Legion's Ut mit s ItTH A ^ r P°nsorship, the National High School Oratorical Contest, and the American Legion baseball program.

OWeVe , I do not su e w™v +>1"? ^1 gg st that by placing emphasis on the youth phase of our e P r0aCh f OUr ther servlce oS w^S J +r" -? ? ^ ° ° P*Wa*s with any less enthusiasm. 2V££ So? li areaS °f Child welfare> *» ^ch we have expended some fo? ou^ S Sri J6 ^ since/925; in rehabilitation, where we evidence our concern Ior our sick and disabled comrades, and for which we budget approximately a million dollars a year; and in National Security, will always bTmattSs of basic concerto Xhe American Legion," Commander Johnson said. 351 NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. O. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters

AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-2-64 DALLAS ---(ALNS) — The U. S. State Department "is made up by and large of capableand dedicated public servants in whom the nation can place much confidence," an American Legion special liaison committee to the State Department has reported. Til th* c°n<=luSi°ns reached by the committee was its emphasis "that those employees of the (State) Department whose loyalty suitability is subject to question are relatively few in number, and that those whose principal fault is mediocrity are much in the minority." y

( The special committee, authorized by the 45th National Convention of The American Legion m September 1963 and appointed by then National Commander Daniel F. Foley with the approval of the National Executive Committee, submitted a lengthy, detailed report to the National Commander during the 46th National Convention, Sept. 18-24 here. The background of the committee and its report, which was not submitted for convention consideration, was described by its chairman, Past National Commander Preston J. Moore of Oklahoma.

Secretary of State Dean Rusk, in his address to the National Commander's Dinner to Distinguished Guests at the 1963 National Convention, proposed that representatives of the Legion visit the Department of State and look it over "in great detail " A resolution adopted by the 1963 convention had called for a thorough Congressional and Presidential review of the State Department "to improve and maintain at a high level the public confidence in this extremely vital agency." Therefore the special liaison committee, Moore stated, based its study on the intent of the resolution.

The special committee devoted several days to visits of State Department facilities both in Washington, D. C., and at overseas posts through participation, at each member's own expense, in the Legion's Far East and global tour May 5 - June

Among the comprehensive report's conclusions, the committee stated, "The personal attitude of most (State) Department leaders toward Communism is tough and realistic ... However, it noted that there are some members of the Department who assist in making U.S. foreign policy "who appear to believe that the leaders of Communist Russia are mellowing, and that these leaders are willing to solve international problems in a conciliatory and reasonable manner." The reports pointed out that our approach to relations with Communist nations "should be firm, balanced, consistent, and unequivocating."

"Weshould always be willing to enter into negotiations with Communist rep- resentatives, but — in view of the dismal record of past negotiations — we should requore beforehand that they demonstrate good faith," the committee declared.

The committee's study included observations and recommendations on the Depart- ment s function and organization, its personnel, its security (both personnel and physical), its communications and reports, its intelligence and research, and its public relations.

In addition to the chairman, the committee consisted of John E. Davis of North Dakota, Eli A. Marcoux of New Hampshire, Albert V. LaBiche of Louisiana, and Emmett G. Lenihan of Washington. NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION 352 INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters

AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-9-6**-

WASHINGTON —(ALNS)— The American Legion has won its fight to eliminate

provisions of the foreign aid bill that would have permitted separation of the Agency

for International Development (AID) employees, irrespective of Civil Service and

Veterans Preference laws and regulations.

The House initially voted down the proposal but the Senate restored it. In

House-Senate conference on the foreign aid bill, the will of the House prevailed.

Consequently, any AID separations will have to be within the rules of Civil Service

and Veterans Preference.

This is considered a major victory because of the precedent that would have

been established and would likely have been followed by other agencies of the govern- ment.

* ' •»

WASHINGTON — (ALNS)— Congress has approved and sent to the President H.R.

2klk (amended) that would provide pensions of $100 per month beginning at age 40 to

Congressional Medal of Honor recipients. The amendment includes authorization for

the pension to 17 peacetime holders of the Medal.

Earlier, a pension of $10 per month was authorized for C.M.H. winners, begin-

ning at age 65. In the 87th Congress, P.L. 87-138, the basic law, was amended to provide $100 per month, reducing the age to 50. If the President signs the new

amendment, most of the Medal winners will immediately qualify.

INDIANAPOLIS — (ALNS)— Copies of a suggested address for American Legion speakers on Veterans Day (Nov. 11) are now available. Requests for the speech should be directed to: The American Legion, National Public Relations Division, P. 0. Box

1055, Indianapolis, Ind. U6206. NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION 353 INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-84U National Headquarters

AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-9-64

WEST BRANCH, Iowa —(ALNS) This small Iowa village — which provided the nation a President and The American Legion a National Commander — will celebrate its latest community honor with a grand and gala homecoming celebration for newly elected

National Commander Donald E. Johnson on Saturday, Oct. 17.

Approximately 10,000 persons are expected to join West Branch's 1,200 in welcoming home the West Branch businessman and combat-decorated World War II veteran, according to Phillip Thomas of this community, homecoming celebration general chair- man.

Among those joining fellow townsmen and Legionnaires will be Gov. Harold E.

Hughes; Sen. Bourke B. Hickenlooper and Jack Miller; Rep. Fred Schwengel and West

Branch Mayor L. P.Foster.

National President Mrs. Walter Wild Andrews of the American Legion Auxiliary prominent Legionnaires from National Headquarters in Indianapolis, Ind.; and key officials from more than 50 departments will also be on hand for the homecoming which will include a giant parade and a banquet.

Thomas, the general chairman for the event, reports that his committee is preparing for what is expected to be the second largest number of visitors to the community since the Herbert Hoover library was dedicated on Aug. 10, 1962.

About 15 bands and drum and bugle corps, largely from Cedar Rapids-Iowa City area high schools, have already accepted invitations to participate in the big parade, scheduled to start at 1:45 p.m. (CST) from the Hoover Park area adjacent to the Hoover Library. NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION 354 INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters

AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS)

LEGION NEWS BRIEFS FOR WEEK ENDING 10-16-6"+ Two American Legion supported bills, H.R. 1927 (pension) and H.R. 9124 (POTC vitalization) have been signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson.

Twenty-seven American Legion Baseball graduates accounted for 54 per cent of the rosters of the New York Yankees and the St. Louis Cardinals as the pennant winners of the American and National Leagues met in the 1964 World Series.

A concise, informative review of how our nation's two top officials are chosen by the electoral college will appear in the November 1964 issue of The American Legion Magazine.

While American Legion Life Insurance renewal notices have only been mailed out a few weeks, the insurance department is already process- ing over 500 insurance renewals daily with 1965 memberships and insurance payments.

American Legion Weeks this year are Oct. 20 to Nov. 11 (Veterans Bay) and during this period veterans who served honorably in World War I, World War II, and the Korean War are being extended a cordial invitation to become Legionnaires.

The Maryland American Legion has again pledged its strong support for the Medical Eye Bank of Maryland, pointing out that the Legion in the Old Line State in the last three years has contributed over $18,000 toward the program.

As a result of a recommendation passed by The American Legion's National Public Relations Commission at its meeting in Dallas, Tex., National Headquarters again restates that the Legion "does not specifically endorse one political candidate or another."

With the enrollment deadline just two weeks away, The American Legion Extension Institute's 19th term is still receiving a deluge of applications from Legionnaires and members of the Auxiliary. NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION 355 INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-16-61*

WASHINGTON (ALNS) Two American Legion supported bills, H.R. 1927(pension) and H.R. 9124 (ROTC vitalization) have been signed into law by President Lyndon B.

Johnson.

President Johnson on Oct. 13 approved legislation liberalizing pension law for war veterans and dependents of deceased war veterans. H.R. 1927, now P.L. 88-664 also makes it possible for service-disabled war veterans, and nonserv ice-connected war veterans who may not purchase life insurance even at substandard rates to purchase National Service Life Insurance (NSLI) for a limited period of time beginning in May 1965.

It is estimated that 1.4 million war veterans, widows and children may benefit from the new pension law. A possible 3,300,000 war veterans could qualify for NSLI under the new law.

The pension section of the new law permits exclusion of seven additional types of income in making a determination of annual income to qualify for a pension or to rsnain on the pension rolls.

Other new provisions include the following: A dependent child no longer has to report earnings to the Veterans Adminis- tration. Aid and attendance recipients under pension laws may now be furnished drugs and medicine by the VA; this group also has its special allowance increased from $70 to $100 a month.

Veterans who are permanently housebound and in receipt of pensions are granted an additional $30 a month; and there are liberalizations of the annual income limita- tions for pensioners.

H.R. 9124 Becomes P.L. 88-647

President Johnson also has just signed into law P.L. 88-647, legislation to improve and expand the junior and senior ROTC programs. The new law provides for a two-year senior ROTC program in colleges and universities along with the existing four-year program. It will expand the junior ROTC program to 1,200 high schools.

It provides for Army and Air Force scholarships not to exceed a total of 5,500 students by 1965, at an average cost of about $800. The Navy, under its Holloway Plan, has had a four-year ROTC scholarship program for years. Scholarship students would be eligible for $50 a month during the academic year.

P.L. 88-647 also authorizes a uniform allowance of $300 for ROTC graduates accepting a regular Army commission as well as increases for summer training pay and travel allowances. NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION «*3)$-

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters

AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-16-64

INDIANAPOLIS (ALNS) Twenty-seven American Legion Baseball graduates

accounted for 54 per cent of the rosters of the New York Yankees and the St. Louis

Cardinals as the pennant winners of the American and National Leagues met in the 1961

World Series.

Legion Baseball graduates who played for the Cardinals included: Jerry Buchek,

Roger Craig, Bob Gibson, Dick Groat, Curt Flood, Charlie James, Tim McCarver, Barney

Schultz, Curt Simmons, Bob Skinner, Bob Uecker, Ray Washburn, Carl Warwick, Bill

White and Mike Shannon.

On the Yankee roster were: John Blanchard, Clete Boyer, Al Downing, Mike

Hegan, Phil Linz, Roger Maris, Hal Reniff, Bobby Richardson, Bill Stafford, Ralph

Terry, Tom Tresh and Stan Williams.

The Cardinal bats and some clutch pitching by knuckle-bailer Barney Schultz extended the Yankees' World Series losing streak to five games when St. Louis beat

New York in the first game, 9-5.

It was a happy occasion for another Legion Baseball graduate, pitcher Roger

Craig, in game No. 4 when he limited the Yankees to two hits and fanned eight during his 4 2/3 innings stint to get credit for the victory. The Cardinals won 4-3 to tie the series standings at 2-2.

The hero of the fifth game was Legion Baseball graduate Tim McCarver of the

Cardinals. His three-run homer in the 10th inning gave St. Louis a spectacular 5-2 victory over the Yankees. The 22-year-old catcher played Legion Baseball for Memphis,

Tenn. Post No. 1. The fifth game also brought fire-balling Bob Gibson his first

World Series victory as he struck out 13 batters.

Back to back home runs by still another Legion graduate, Roger Maris, and his teammate, Mickey Mantle, ably assisted the Yankees to win the sixth game and tie up the series. NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION 357 INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-16-6U

NEW YORK —(ALNS)— A concise, informative review of how our nation's

two top officials are chosen by the electoral college will appear in the November

1964 issue of The American Legion Magazine. Entitled "Who Will Pick the

President?" the article gives readers a look at the intricacies, problems, and

merits of our electoral system.

Legionnaires and Auxiliary members who attended the U6th National Con-

vention in Dallas, Tex., Sept. 18-2U, will find high interest in "A Report

From Dallas." The convention is recaptured in 16 pages of text and 120 photos.

Other outstanding stories in the November issue include:

"Happy Birthday to the Burlington, Wis. Liars' Club," a story on the World-Wide club for the tellers of tall tales founded 35 years ago on a lie by Wisconsin newsmen.

"The National Commander of The American Legion (1961)~65)", a biography of Donald E. Johnson . . . Iowa businessman, artilleryman with Patton's 3rd Army and the Legion*s new National Commander.

"An Artist Paints the Wall of Shame," a four-color feature in which artist Will Harder shows, in Berlin, that modern art need not be taken up with empty abstractions.

"The Great Battle of the Argonne," an account of the agonizing, mag- nificent 1+7-day American offensive in the Meuse-Argonne area of France which was the crucial operation on the Western Front that brought World War I to an end.

The Magazine's "Pro & Con -- The Big Issue" for November is entitled "When A President Dies, Should His Successor Name a New VP?". Sen. Birch E. Bayh, Jr., of Indiana and Rep. James G. Fulton of Pennsylvania offer alternate suggestions on the best way to maintain a continuous line of succession to the Presidency. NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION 35S INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 1 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters l % u-sj. AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-16-6U

CHICAGO —(ALNS)— While American Legion Life Insurance renewal notices have

only been mailed out a few weeks, the insurance department is already processing over

500 insurance renewals daily with 1965 memberships and insurance payments.

Insured Legionnaires who have moved and not notified the insurance department

should send in their 1965 membership card number and payment to: The American Legion

Insurance Department, P.O. Box 5609, Chicago, 111. 60680, making certain to include

their certificate or policy number.

"Last year hundreds of insured Legionnaires waited until December to secure next year memberships," announced Lawrence M. Fornia, National Headquarters insurance

supervisor, "and then were unable to quickly get a membership from their post during the busy holiday season. Many of these had to write letters explaining their problem and others waited until it was almost too late!"

With benefits up to $8,000 for as little as $2.00 a month, insured Legion- naires should act at once in securing 1965 Legion memberships and renewing this low cost life insurance.

NOTE TO EDITORS: American Legion Weeks are Oct. 20 to Nov. 11 (Veterans Day). During this period, veterans who served honorably in World War I, World War II, or the Korean War are being extended a cordial invitation to become Legionnaires. Co- operative ad mats for the promotion of AL Weeks and Veterans Day are now available free of charge from National Headquarters. The mats are available in two-, three-, and five-column widths.

Orders should be placed now by writing to: The Membership and Post Activities Section, The American Legion, P.O. Box 1055, Indianapolis, Ind. ^6206.

CORRECTION: The American Legion News Service (ALNS) recently stated that The Cavaliers, Post 985, Chicago, 111. were the winners of the senior color guard contest during the k6th National Convention in Dallas, Tex. The Cavaliers is a junior color guard sponsored by Post 985. The 196k winner is the Senior Color Guard of the First National Bank of Chicago, 111., Post 985. NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION 359

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters

AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-l6-6k

BALTIMORE, MD. — (ALNS)— The Maryland American Legion has again

pledged its strong support for the Medical Eye Bank of Maryland, pointing

out that the Legion in the Old Line State in the last three years has contrib-

uted over $18,000 toward the program. The money has been derived from an

annual Christmas tree sale at Memorial Stadium in Baltimore.

"Through this program the people of Maryland can give the miracle of

eyesight to those who live in a bleak, dark world," stated Department

Commander Wilbur L. Van Sant, Jr. He also noted that "the present need is

for more eyes to be pledged for donation upon the death of the donor, and

the funds to preserve and transport the necessary eye tissue to the place

where the operation is to be performed on the blind recipient."

The Maryland Department Commander also reported that two Legion dis-

tricts, Baltimore and Northern Central, with the cooperation of the Baltimore

Bullets, have arranged a basketball game between the Bullets and the Detroit

Pistons with the ticket proceeds going to the Medical Eye Bank.

INDIANAPOLIS ---(ALNS) — As a result of a recommendation passed by

The American Legion's National Public Relations Commission at its meeting

in Dallas, Tex., National Headquarters again restates that the Legion "does

not specifically endorse one political candidate or another." Political

beliefs are left to the individual Legionnaire. NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION 360 INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-84U National Headquarters AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-16-64

INDIANAPOLIS (ALNS) With the enrollment deadline just two weeks away, The American Legion Extension Institute's 19th term is still receiving a deluge of applications and at the present time enrollments are running 30 per cent ahead of last year.

Deadline for prospective students (Legionnaires; Auxiliary members; and Sons of The American Legion, 17 years of age or older) in this outstanding home study course is Nov. 1, 1964.

Anyone wanting to climb the Legion ladder to assume more leadership responsi- bility will find the course indispensable. Consisting of six monthly lessons, the

Extension Institute course provides a comprehensive background on the Legion along

with detailed instructions on the implementation of Legion programs within the community.

Remittances should be made payable to the National Treasurer of The American Legion and sent before the Nov. 1, 1964 deadline to: The American Legion Extension Institute, 700 N. Pennsylvania, P.O. Box 1055, Indianapolis, Ind. 46206. Tuition fees are:

1 to 4 enrollments from a post, county, or district ...... $6.00 each 5 to 9 enrollments from a post, county, or district $4.00 each 10 or more enrollments from a post, county, or district .... $3.00 each

WASHINGTON (ALNS) The National Public Relations Division of The

American Legion has announced the availability of a Veterans Day promotional kit

that is being distributed by the Veterans Administration. Requests for the kit

should be directed to: Veterans Administration, Attention Public Information Division, 810 Vermont Ave., Washington, D.C. 20420.

The kit contains a ''PR Guide for Veterans Day," a fact booklet on "The

Meaning of Veterans Day," a speech for Veterans Day, and other pertinent material. 361 NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 National Headquarters P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411

AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS)

LEGION NEWS BRIEFS FOR WEEK ENDING IO-23-&

Attacking the bureau's consistent policy of "intense, persistent, and dedicated opposition" to the nation's veterans program, The American Legion has expressed its protest and condemnation of the "anti-veteran practices and policies of the Bureau of the Budget" and called upon the bureau "to discontinue actions that are inimical to the veterans program."

The American Legion has joined the nation in mourning the death of a great American and one of the country's most widely respected elder statesmen . . . former President Herbert Clark Hoover.

Using their own community facilities and those of nearby Iowa City, Cedar Bapids, and Tipton, townsmen and neighbors of National Commander Donald E. Johnson of The American Legion gave him a rousing welcome home on Oct. 17 in West Branch, Iowa.

Lt. Col. Helen Purviance, the Salvation Army lassie who provided a touch of home by baking and serving doughnuts to the war-weary soldiers of the American Ex- peditionary Forces during World War I, has been cited by The American Legion in recognition of her singular humantarian service.

■» — «• a National Commander Donald E. Johnson has called on all departments and local posts to join in honoring the Salvation Army which was founded in 1865. He suggests that this be done by holding a doughnut and coffee hour after a regular meeting or some other appropriate time during the last of October or early in November.

With the appointment of American Legionnaires to national commissions and committees with the approval of the National Executive Committee, National Commander Donald E. Johnson has completed the organization of The American Legion for 1965.

Subject to fulfilling their pledges made during the telegraphic roll call at the Department Commanders and Adjutants Conference, the tentative winners of The DaSota^ASS^'V^?^ C^*1*1™"•■*•!■ Iowa, Wieccpsin, Louisiana, Kansas-South Dakota, Alabama, North Dakota, South Carolina, Utah and Nevada.

In the light of recent developments throughout the world, there continues an overriding need for American tactical preparedness and strategic superiority, a recognized authority on international affairs and the strategy of communism has warned The American legion. Speaking at the National Commander's Banquet for the National Executive Committee in Indianapolis, Ind., Dr. Stefan T. Possony, director or the International Studies Program for the Hoover Institution, Stanford University, declared that the United States finds itself in growing danger. NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION 362 INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters

AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-26-64

INDIANAPOLIS —(ALNS)—Attacking the bureaus consistent policy of "intense,

persistent, and dedicated opposition" to the nation's veterans program, The American

Legion has expressed its protest and condemnation of the "anti-veteran practices

and policies of the Bureau of the Budget" and called upon the bureau "to discontinue

actions that are inimical to the veterans program."

The Legion's action was taken by the National Executive Committee during its

annual fall meeting, Oct. 21-22, at National Headquarters here. In adopting

Resolution 16, the NEC called attention to such anti-veteran actions by the Bureau

of the Budget as its opposition to the sorely needed VA nursing care program, its

interference with the VA hospital program, its recommendation for the elimination

of the lower disability ratings of service-connected disabled veterans, and its

"incompetent, uninformed, prejudiced actions" which have not only hurt the veterans

program, but also "thwarted the will of the Congress and the people."

Resolution 16 further expresses The American Legion's demand "that the bureau

adopt a new attitude — one that will conform to the traditional and honorable

treatment always accorded war veterans and their survivors by the people of this

nation. Any other course of action will not reflect the will of the people but,

rather, will conflict with the clear expressions of Congressional policy regarding our war veterans."

Foreign-Made Flag Importation Opposed

In other action by the NEC, The American Legion opposed the importation and

sales of the Flag of the United States from foreign countries, and called upon the

National Legislative Commission to support any bills introduced into the Congress

that would halt such importations. The committee also expresses the Legion's

approval and appreciation of Post Office Department action in maintaining a stock of five-cent American Flag stamps to meet public requests.

(MORE) 363 National Executive Committee (Continued) — Page 2

Through the NEC's approval of Resolution 3, the Legion noted an immediate need

to focus attention on the complex problem facing the education field and requested

the President to call for a White House Conference on Education which would be

initiated in 1965.

In the area of national security, the NEC urged Congressional enactment of a

law similar to the provisions contained in H.R. 8200, and appropriate the funds

necessary for implementation of the law, which would expand the fallout shelter

protection program in schools, hospitals, public buildings, and other non-profit

organizations through modification of existing structures and incorporation of

fallout protection in new buildings.

Legislative Program - 89th Congress

The National Executive Committee approved a 97-point legislative program to be pursued during the 89th Congress which will convene in January. In addition to the resolutions of the 46th National Convention requiring legislative action, the legislative program also encompasses the actions of the fall NEC meeting including amendatory legislation to increase rates of death compensation, improve Dependency and Indemnity Compensation program for dependent parents, and to permit exclusion from determination of annual income for pension purposes of an amount equal to personal contributions to public or private retirement programs.

National Child Welfare Chairman David V. Addy reported to the NEC that three points of the Legion's child welfare emphasis for 1965 would be the abused child, eye safety, and dangerous drugs, all of which constitute legislative objectives within the various states during the year ahead. He asked the members of the NEC to add their strength and influence to the adoption of these Legion-supported laws in the hk states whose legislatures will meet early in 1965.

Tentative Convention Awards for 1966, 1967 Upheld

After hearing a request from the Department of Pennsylvania that the City of Philadelphia be reconsidered as the site for the 1966 National Convention, the NEC affirmed the action of the National Convention Commission in its tentative awards of the 1966 reunion to Washington, D. C, and the 1967 convention to New York City.

The NEC approved a change in eligibility requirements for the 1965 senior drum and bugle corps competition which establishes a minimum of 30 per cent of each units who must be members of The American Legion in good standing, a maximum of 70 per cent may be non-members who are ineligible for American Legion membership. Every member of a competing corps who is eligible to belong to The American Legion shall belong. 364 NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters

AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-26-64

INDIANAPOLIS —(ALKS)—-The American Legion has joined the nation in mourning the death of a great American and one of the country's most widely respected elder statesmen. . . former President Herbert Clark Hoover. National Commander Donald E. Johnson on behalf of the Legion has extended sincere sympathies to the family of Mr. Hoover and stated that "the world shall long remember Mr. Hoover as one of the great humanitarians of our time."

In paying a memorial tribute to the former President who died Oct. 20, the National Executive Committee at its fall meeting noted that the Legion "does mourn the passing of a truly great American and human being and that we commend to all men his works and to God his spirit."

INDIANAPOLIS —-(ALNS)— American Legionnaires from each of the 50 states and seven foreign lands participated in the annual "Freedom Torch" lighting ceremony here at the Cenotaph on the Indiana World War Memorial Plaza. The lighting of the torch is a traditional symbol of the friendship that binds World War veterans of Belgium and the United States.

This is the 29th year that the Freedom Torch has been exchanged between veterans' organizations of the two countries. Following similar ceremonies here and in Belgium the torches are flown across the Atlantic Ocean for use by the Veterans of each country in commemorating Veterans Day.

WASHINGTON — (ALUS)— Upon hearing of the signing into law recently of two American Legion supported bills, National Commander Donald E. Johnson sent the fol- lowing message to President Lyndon B. Johnson: "I have just been advised of your action in signing into law P.L. 88-664 and P.L. 88-647, providing for an extension of benefits for veterans and dependents of veterans and for improving the junior and senior ROTC programs, respectively. On behalf of your 2,600,000 fellow American Legionnaires, to whom both of these measures are of extreme importance, may I extend to you the thanks and appreciation of The I American Legion."

WASHINGTON —(ALNS)— Veterans Affairs Administrator John S. Gleason, Jr., a past National American Legion Commander in 1957-58, will be the principal Veterans Day speaker this year at Arlington National Cemetery.

President Lyndon B. Johnson has also designated Gleason to lay the wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at 11:00 a.m., while an honor guard representing all armed services will present arms and a bugler sounds taps. HEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION 365 INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE.. 10-26-61+ AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) WEST BRANCH,Ia.--(ALNS)— Using their own community facilities and those of

nearby Iowa City, Cedar Rapids, and Tipton, townsmen and neighbors of National Com-

mander Donald E. Johnson of The American Legion gave him a rousing Iowa Welcome home,

here on Oct. 17.

A giant parade including more than a dozen area high school drum and bugle

corps and bands; a tour of the Herbert Hoover Library, the birthplace, and other

reminders that West Branch was the home of the 31st President; and a banquet attended

by nearly 1,000 Legionnaires and distinguished guests were highlights of the Com-

mander's homecoming.

A solemn aspect of the homecoming and a reminder of the importance that Legion-

naires place on service to God and country was a special Mass in St. Bernadette's

Church conducted by Rev. Morris Dummet, the Legion's national chaplain. Commander

Johnson served as chairman of the committee which raised funds to erect the new

$80,000 structure.

In a major address at the homecoming banquet, Commander Johnson told fellow Legionnaires and neighbors: "We have, by recent convention action, reaffirmed our beliefs in the great American concepts of individual liberty and justice and civic responsibility. We have accepted the challenge to offer our country ever higher standards of service, and I hereby issue the challenge and offer the opportunity to every eligible veteran — to every American Legionnaire — to join ranks with us in the full time service of community, state and nation." "The course we have charted for ourselves is not an easy one. It demands personal sacrifice, self-discipline and loyalty to the highest standards of Ameri- canism. For Legionnaires there is no other course and we ask of our countrymen no more than we ourselves are willing to give," Commander Johnson emphasized. Joining in the welcome to the Iowa native were Gov. Harold E. Hughes; Sens. Bourke B. Hickenlooper and Jack Miller; Rep Fred Schwengel; West Branch Mayor L. P. Foster; and key department officials of The American Legion. Sgt. Ralph G. Neppel., Icwa City, who was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for his courageous action against the enemy in Birgel, Germany during World War II, served as marshal for the hour-long parade. West Branch'8 best known native son, former President Herbert Clark Hoover, who died Oct. 20, wired the Legion Commander: "Don, I wish I could attend the homecoming in person, but I shall be there in spirit. I send congratulations and warm good wishes to you who are so fine an example of the opportunities the American way of life extends to American youth." NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION 36fi INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-26-6U

INDIANAPOLIS —(ALNS)— Lt. Col. Helen Purvlance, the Salvation Army lassie

who provided a touch of home by baking and serving doughnuts to the war-weary

soldiers of the American Expeditionary Forces during World War I, has been cited by

The American Legion in recognition of her singular humanitarian service. During the

National Commander's banquet to the National Executive Committee here on Oct. 21,

Colonel Purviance was presented a special plaque by National Commander Donald E. Johnson.

The National Commander's award carried the Legion emblem and an etching of

the doughnut which she helped to make famous.

National Commander Johnson has also called on all departments and local posts

to join the National Executive Committee in honoring the Salvation Army which was

founded in 1865. He suggests that this be done by holding a doughnut and coffee

hour after a regular meeting or at some other appropriate time during the last of

October or early in November.

Commissioner Holland French, national commander of the Salvation Army, also was introduced at the banquet and spoke before the NEC at its fall meeting on Oct. 22.

National Commander Johnson was honored at the banquet when Commissioner French pre- sented to him the Salvation Army's centennial medallion.

Open House Proceeds to go to The Salvation Army

Upon receiving the high award from the Army, the Legion National Commander ad- vised Commissioner French that through the media of internal American Legion publica- tions he has suggested to all 16,000 posts that they conduct an open house and serve coffee and doughnuts in honor of Colonel Purviance. "Any voluntary contributions or other proceeds realized from these programs should be contributed to the Salvation

Army," Commander Johnson said. from: THE AMERICAN LEGION 36 ^llffllk INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 p B .,, i u J IIIIKOK - 0- 0X 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters ^i|2E§F F0R IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-26-64 AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) ^3$$0®?

INDIANAPOLIS — (ALNS)—With the appointment of American Legionnaires to

national commissions and committees with the approval of the National Executive Com-

mittee, National Commander Donald E. Johnson has completed the organization of The

American Legion for 1965.

The chairmanships of the various commissions and committees include the fol-

lowing, with asterisks marking re-appointments:

American Commission

*Daniel J. O'Connor, Jackson Heights, N.Y., National Americanism Chairman;

The Rev. John J. Howard, Phoebus, Va., Americanism Council; *Dr. J. E. Martie, Reno,

Nev., Counter-Subversive Activities Committee.

Child Welfare Commission

Morris "Bob" Nooner, Jr., Plymouth, 111., National Child Welfare Chairman.

Convention Commission

*James V. Demarest, New York, N.Y. National Convention Commission Chairman;

*Harold J. Dillon, Ely, Minn., Contests Supervisory Committee; *A. L. Starshak,

Chicago, 111., Distinguished Guests Committee.

Economic Commission

*John J. Flynn, Vallejo, Calif., National Economic Commission Chairman;

*William J. Chisholm, Denver, Colo., Employment Committee; *Dr. Tom B. Clark,

Lawton, Okla., Housing Committee; *Raymond R. McEvoy, Stoughton, Mass., Veterans' Preference Committee.

Finance Commission

*Harold P. Redden, Longmeadow, Mass., National Finance Commission Chairman;

*Judge Levi M. Hall, Minneapolis, Minn., American Legion Life Insurance and Trust

Committee; *Julius Levy, Washington, D. C, Emblem Committee; James F. McCabe, Mt.

Pleasant, Iowa Investments Policy Committee; National Commander Donald E. Johnson,

West Branch, Iowa, Overseas Graves Decoration Trust. (MORE) 368

Legion Appointments (continued) page 2

Foreign Relations Commission

*Thomas E. Whelan, St. Thomas, N.D., National Foreign Relations Commission Chairman; ♦Henry H. Dudley, Tucson, Ariz. (Neb.). Inter-American Committee.

Internal Affairs Commission

♦Herbert J. Jacobi, Washington, D. C-, National Internal Affairs Commission Chairman; ♦Halsey w. Stickel, Newark, N. J. Constitution and By-Laws Committee; Joseph H. Hackett, Warwick, R. I., Graves Registration and Memorial Committee; Earl D. Franklin, Jr., Sterling, Colo., Membership and Post Activities Committee; Michael M. Markowitz, Earrisburg, Pa., Pilgrimage Committee; ♦Charles W. Griffith, Manning, S. C, Resolutions Assignment Committee; *Reed Beard, Bedford, Ind., Trophies, Awards and Ceremonials Committee.

Legislative Commission

♦Clarence C. Horton, Gulf Shores, Ala., National Legislative Commission Chairman.

Security Commission

♦William C. Doyle, Vineland, N.J., National Security Commission Chairman; ♦Roscoe Turner, Indianapolis, Ind., Aeronautics And Space Committee; ♦Collins Rowe Buchner, Inglewood, Calif., Amateur Radio Network Committee; William S. Todd, Kingsport, Tenn., Civil Defense Committee; ♦Elmer W. Kuhlmann, Washington, D. C.(Mo.) Law and Order Committee; ♦Henry C. Parke, Brooklyn, N. Y-, Merchant Marine Com- mittee; ♦Edwin R. Bentley, Lakeland, Fla., Military Affairs Committee; *Granville S. Ridley, Murfreesboro, Tenn., National Security Council; ♦Emmett G. Lenihan, Seattle, Wash., Naval Affairs Committee; ♦John J. Finn, Alexandria, Va. (D.C.), Special Subcommittee on Uniform Code of Military Justice and Court of Military Appeals.

Publications Commission

♦Charles R. Logan, Keokuk, Iowa, National Publications Commission Chairman.

Public Relations Commission

♦CD. DeLoach, Alexandria, Va. (D.C.), National Public Relations Commission Chairman.

Rehabilitation Commission

♦Robert M. McCurdy, Pasadena, Calif., National Rehabilitation Commission Chairman. 369 NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-26-61+

INDIANAPOLIS — (ALUS)— Subject to fulfilling their pledges made during the telegraphic roll call at the Department Commanders and Adjutants Conference, the following departments are the tentative winners of The American Legion's "Big Ten

Competition": Membership Pledged Category Oct. 20, 1961+ Percentage

I — Goal of IOWA 91,982 80,000 86.97 70,000 or more WISCONSIN 75,330 61,500 81.61+

II — Goal LOUISIANA 1+6,851+ 1+1,000 87.50 1+0,000 to 69,999 KANSAS 60,321+ 50,069 83.OO III — Goal SOUTH DAKOTA 27,28U 23,000 81+. 30 25,000 to 39,999 ALABAMA 3^,527 26,500 76.75 IV — Goal NORTH DAKOTA 23,81+9 22,000 92.25 10,000 to 2^,999 SOUTH CAROLINA 21,229 16,500 77.72

V — Goal UTAH 6,913 5,602 81.01+ 9,999 or less NEVADA 3,5^ 2,871 81.01 The tentative winners must fulfill their pledges by transmittals postmarked from point of origin no later than Jan. 8, I965.

Determined to bring their membership campaigns to a successful conclusion as early as possible, the department commanders have pledged to National Commander

Donald E. Johnson that they will enroll 1,859,913 Legionnaires for 1965, by Dec. 31,

I96I+. The department officials pledged 71 per cent of the 1965 goal of 2,619,318 by the end of the present calendar year.

The Pennsylvania American Legion turned in the largest commitment during the telegraphic roll call, pledging a membership report of 155,000 of its 1965 goal of

21+6,697 by Dec. 31. With a quota of 203,929, the Department of Illinois promised an enrollment of 135,000. New York pledged 123,000 of its 1965 goal of 213,1+97, followed by California with a membership pledge of 100,000 and a goal of 135,790. «K-.

NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION 370 INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters

AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-26-64

INDIANAPOLIS —(ALNS)— In the light of recent developments throughout the world, there continues an overriding need for American tactical preparedness and

strategic superiority, a recognized authority on international affairs and the

strategy of communism has warned The American Legion.

Speaking at the National Commander's Banquet for the National Executive Com- mittee, on Octoher 21, here Dr. Stefan T. Possony, director of the International

Studies Program for the Hoover Institution, Stanford University, declared that the

United States finds itself in growing danger.

"Unless our defense policies are put on a realistic basis, there will be more rather than less trouble. We will run an increasingly greater risk of losing the limited conflicts in which we are engaged. Our alliances may fall to pieces. Our ability to defend U.S. national interests will diminish."

Dr. Possony's timely remarks to the Legion's leaders pointed out that the recent explosion of a Chinese atomic bomb "has largely political but not yet real military significance. Nevertheless, this new communist capability further weakens the U. S. position in Vietnam."

Pointing to the overthrow of Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev, the speaker explained that Khrushchev's downfall may have been due to his reluctance to deploy his recently announced "terrible" new weapon rapidly and in adequate numbers. "The fact that this dispute led to a major crisis suggests that the new weapon could be of a decisive nature," he warned. "In all likelihood we will new witness an attempt by Moscow to regain control over the world communist movement and to strengthen its unity and effectiveness." He forecast a turn toward a reconciliation between Moscow and Peking.

The noted authority on international affairs assured the approximately 250 guests of National Commander Donald E. Johnson that the U. S. still possesses a substantial margin of superiority but the Soviet Union is catching up, "and may be in the process of overtaking us." : He decried certain U. S. policies concerning military strategy, saying, "The Soviets have been installing ICBM's with superyield warheads, which are designed for the purpose of destroying our so-called hardened missile bases. We have been abandoning the manned bomber. Behind a verbal smokescreen to give the contrary im- pression, we have been holding up even the design development of a successor to the B-52.

"Unfortunately, the apathy and gullibility of the American people are now so great that it is dubious whether we shall face up to our problem in time to pre- vent catastrophic complications. The weak may have to fight. Only the strong can prevent war and preserve freedom." 371 NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 National Headquarters P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411

AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS)

LEGION NEWS BRIEFS FOR WEEK ENDING 10-30-64

last timf Oct^Ps' fn°r' a-T °f-,Plain and contented waye, returned for the hood hoS l*t?«J°o T^ Vlllage °f WSSt Branch> Iowa> that was ^ boy- amoL ?S'U r^ ?0nmBnder »»ald E. Johnson of The American Legion was 3 friSndS invited for the sim le torol the former o l° President 'f^ who died Oct. 20. P S^vesidf ceremony

n„_ * "The BeSt Answer>" a new ll|- minute documentary film featuring National O^rSi^e'sfwi^011,^ ?Vid B— ^> tl^l^^SSM^SSl SSS!in ttey^hTfrimJr?c:?1Cally *""»■*»*•» *» *»*«» Legion's high

Anerican "Earlv BS^T^ ^ *? lion's 58 departments have qualified as Jiariy Bird membership departments for 1965.

com leted for the ferences^ AIH r^ P «« area child welfare con- cSd Wel?frf oM ^ ?gl°n t0 ^ conduc^d this fall and winter, the National wSh ill !1 Commission has announced. Current interests will be fully discussed

AuxiliarftT^ ff681^^ *"• "alter Wild Andrews of the American Legion c"cSte"st Lstrf nf+^T * Nati0nal Commandei- Donald |. Johnson to a membership en^ollln? ° ^ laiBeSt Pontage of 1 6 membership compared to the 196k enrollment on record m National Headquarters9 as5 of Dec. 31 19k

civilian elem^S^f th. i! 2* °Pf °f CiVil Deftnse' now assiene* to the a miliL iTtT.Z A ^^^ftn^nt of the Army, arrangements have been made for availing to every American Legion post of the two latest publications from that

The insurance department of The American Legion in Chicago 111 has 1 1 rc inS f ABM1C STSJh^SSS ^? ^ r ° « *#" SLS^InluranceVnoUng tSiVSstr^^rmeXSSpsf mUed' ^mberS Sh°Uld *—*«* contact ^ NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION m INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 0. 1055 National Headquarters P. BOX ME 5-8411 AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) ^IP^ FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-30-64

WEST BRANCH, Iowa —(ALNS) — - Herbert C Hoover, a man of plain and

contented ways, returned for the last time Oct. 25, to this quiet village that was

his boyhood home. National Commander Donald E. Johnson of The American Legion was

among the 308 officials and friends invited for the simple graveside ceremony for

the former President who died in New York on Oct. 20.

A graveside tribute to Mr. Hoover described the 31st President of the

United States as a man of "magnificent patience" who was one of the great men of

the 20th century. Dr. Elton Trueblood of Earlham College at Richmond, Ind., who

made the only comments at the burial in a grassy knoll on the grounds of the

Hoover presidential library, said the former President lived throughout his 90

years as an example for all Americans to follow.

As the burnished copper-colored coffin bearing his body was lowered to its

resting place, the 5th Army band gave forth the strains of "The Battle Hymn of the

Republic," a song of dauntless courage loved by Mr. Hoover.

Mr. Hoover's two sons, Herbert Jr. and Allan, their wives and seven of the

former President's grandchildren occupied a cluster of chairs beside the hilltop

grave overlooking the two-room cabin where Mr. Hoover was born.

Besides the family and friends ringing the grave site, an estimated 75,000

persons stood behind a cordon of soldiers about 250 yards away on the valley floor

to pay their last respects to Mr. Hoover when he was buried in the 28-acre

government-owned park that is the site of his library and birthplace.

National Commander Johnson has extended a special "thank you" to the nearly

400 Legionnaires, en masse from Chauncey Butler Post 514 in West Branch as well

as those from surrounding Iowa towns, for their "fine community service" effort

in assisting the Army in directing traffic and handling the crowd which jammed

this small Iowa community. 373 NEWS Irom: THE AMERICAN LEGION INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-30-64

WASHINGTON — (ALMS)— "The Best Answer/' a new film featuring National

Commander Donald E- Johnson and David Bruce Marth, the 1964 National High School

Oratorical Contest winner, dramatically demonstrates The American Legion's high

interest in the youth of America. Marth, the 17-year-old Wausau, Wis., youth,

also has the rare distinction of being the only speaker to address both the

Democratic and Republican National Convention this year.

In urging nationwide distribution of the llf minute documentary film

produced by Hearst Metrotone News, National Commander Johnson is asking all posts

to purchase "The Best Answer" and show it at post meetings and school assemblies.

The National Commander has personally written to all department commanders, with copies to department adjutants and National Executive Committeemen, pointing out the value of the film as a good public relations vehicle to stimulate interest in the Legion's youth programs and especially the National High School Oratorical contest.

Public Relations Director James C. Watkins has suggested that if at all possible every post should purchase the film at the low price of $19.75. "It should be comparatively easy to arrange a TV showing over your local television station, especially if you plan to present the film to your local high school principal for high school showings or as a gift to the high school film library," Watkins said.

A suggested outline for such a TV script which can be tailored for the use of the local TV announcer, Legion spokesman, and high school principal has been prepared by the National Public Relations Division.

"The Best Answer" may be purchased by writing directly to: Mr. Charles Shutt, Bureau Chief, Hearst-Metrotone- News, hjO E Street, S.W., Washington 24, D.C The telephone number is EX-3-83H. A check made out to Hearst Metrotone News for $19-75 should accompany each order. NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION 3?4 INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-30-6^

INDIANAPOLIS ---(ALNS)--- Forty seven of The American Legion's 58

departments have qualified as "Early Bird" membership departments for 1965. Four

other departments reported membership which would qualify them for the award but

had not yet confirmed the reports with dues transmittals to National Headquarters.

To qualify as an "Early Bird" a department was required to have at least

15 per cent of its 1965 goal on hand by Oct. 15 and also have at least one more

member than on the same date last year. Status reports were made by all department

commanders at the annual Telegraphic Roll Call at National Headquarters here on Oct. 20.

Departments qualifying as "Early Birds" are:

ALABAMA GEORGIA MAINE NEW HAMPSHIRE PUERTO RICO AIASKA HAWAII MARYLAND NEW JERSEY SOUTH CAROLINA ARIZONA IDAHO MICHIGAN NORTH CAROLINA TENNESSEE ARKANSAS ILLINOIS MINNESOTA NORTH DAKOTA TEXAS CALIFORNIA INDIANA MISSISSIPPI OHIO UTAH COLORADO IOWA MISSOURI OKLAHOMA VERMONT CONNECTICUT KANSAS MONTANA OREGON VIRGINIA DELAWARE KENTUCKY NEBRASKA PANAMA, C.Z. WASHINGTON D. OF C. LOUISIANA NEVADA PENNSYLVANIA WEST VIRGINIA PHILIPPINES WYOMING These departments are authorized to use the special "Early Bird" art during 1965 and their commanders and adjutants will receive citations testifying to the success of their early membership efforts. Reports of membership on hand at the department headquarters were accepted to determine the tentative "Early Bird" departments, but these reports had to be confirmed by later transmittals.

INDIANAPOLIS ---(ALNS)—- National Headquarters of The American Legion has on hand a substantial supply of registration packets from the Dallas, Tex., National Convention. These are available for sale individually or in bulk quantities at the price of $1.00 per packet. Legionnaires who did not attend the National Convention might wish to purchase the packets at this reduced price as souvenirs.

INDIANAPOLIS —(AIMS)— Copies of a suggested speech for American Education Week (Nov. 3-l4) are now available. Requests should be directed to: The American Legion, National Public Relations Division, P.O. Box 1055, Indianapolis, Ind. 4o20o. Co-sponsored by The American Legion, American Education Week this year has as its general theme "Education Pays Dividends." 375 NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters

AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-30-64

INDIANAPOLIS —(ALMS)— Preparations are being completed for the five

area child welfare conferences of The African Legion to be conducted this fall

and winter, the National Child Welfare Commission has announced. During the

1964-65 sessions, current interests will be fully discussed with the Legion's

department child welfare leadership, the American Legion Auxiliary, and the Eight and Forty.

Dates and locations for the five area conferences are: Area City Dates Location

S^f6^ « Speller, Vt. Nov. 5-7, 1964 Pavilion Hotel Middle Atlantic Charleston, W. Va. Nov. 19-21, 1964 Daniel Boone Hotel boutbern New Orleans, La. Dec. 3-5, 196^ Jung Hotel Midwestern Detroit, Mich. Jan. 7-9, 1965 Sheraton-Cadillac Hotel Western Portland, Ore. Jan. 21-23, 1965 Portland Sheraton Hotel

"Inventing Tomorrow" will be the theme for the 196I+-65 area conferences

For the past two years the National Child Welfare Commission has concerned

itself with a study of the tremendous changes which have been and are talcing

place in our way of life and the implications of such changes for the nation's children and youth.

The study has revealed that some of the traditional methods in dealing

with today's problems of children and youth are no longer effective.

WASHINGTON —(ALNS)— The American Legion's l8th annual observance

of "National Employ the Handicapped Week" has proved to be the most successful

in recent years with more than a 40 per cent increase in citation awards over

1963, the National Economic Commission has reported. NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION 376 INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters

AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-30-64

INDIANAPOLIS —-(ALNS)— "The American Legion, which has done so much

for so many veterans and dependents, has much more to do," National President

Mrs. Walter Wild Andrews of the American Legion Auxiliary has told members of

the Legion's National Executive Committee. In a brief address before the fall

meeting of the NEC, Mrs. Andrews noted that old veterans are now senior citizens,

young veterans have become grandfathers, and that widows of veterans increase in numbers every day.

"We of the Auxiliary believe that we can give real help as the Legion

continues its endeavors for a strong America," Mrs. Andrews told the Legion leaders.

The National President then challenged National Commander Donald E.

Johnson to a 1965 membership contest based on the largest percentage of 1965

membership compared to the 1964 enrollment on record in National Headquarters

as of Dec. 31, 1964. All transmittals postmarked not later than Jan. 29, 1965, will be counted.

The pay-off is to be a $250 scholarship set up under these rules:

1. If the loser should be the National President of the Auxiliary,

the winner of the scholarship is to be the president of 1965 Boys Nation.

2. Should the loser be the National Commander of the Legion, the winner

of the scholarship is to be the president of 1965 Girls Nation.

3- Said pay-off is to be made when the winning president of either

Boys Nation or Girls Nation appears on the program at the National Convention. NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION 377 INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-30-64

WASHINGTON ---(ALNS)--- In cooperation with the Office of Civil Defense,

now assigned to the civilian element of the Department of the Array, arrangements

have been made for a mailing to every American Legion post of the two latest

publications from that agency.

The two booklets printed by the United States Government Printing Office

are entitled "Community and Family Service for Civil Defense" and "Meeting That

Move."

The first brochure illustrates how organizations such as The American

Legion can advance their community civil defense program.

"Meeting That Move" is a guide to successful meetings on civil defense.

The booklet will aid program chainren in conducting civil defense meetings to

attract maximum participation and lead to specific civil defense actions by

interested groups.

The American Legion since World War II has actively promoted and

supported an adequate civil defense preparedness. At the present time the

Legion's basic activities in this field are the National Blood Donor, Light

Duty Rescue and Fallout Shelter programs.

The Legion's National Security Commission has reviewed the new

publications and has reported that they should be of great value to the posts,

to Legionnaires and their families, and to local and state civil defense directors.

Additional quantities of the nex/ booklet can be obtained by writing to:

The National Security Commission, The American Legion, l6o8 K Street, N.W-,

Washington, D-C- NEWS from: THE AMERICAN LEGION 378 INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46206 P. 0. BOX 1055 ME 5-8411 National Headquarters

AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE (ALNS) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10-30-64

CHICAGO, ILL. ---(ALNS)--- The insurance department of The American

Legion has released instructions on the renewing of American Legion Life

insurance, noting that with renewal notices already mailed members should

immediately contact their posts for 1965 memberships.

When the 1965 membership card number is available, insured members

should return the renewal notice with a remittance for $12.00 or $24.00 as shown

on the notice. Legionnaires should also report on the reverse side their 1965

membership number and make certain to note any change or correction in address.

If no renewal notice has been received, members should write to: The

American Legion, Insurance Department, P.O. Box 5609, Chicago, 111. 60680. They

should include either their $12.00 or $24.00, their 1965 membership card number,

and, most important, their insurance certificate or policy number.

No new policy or certificate is issued upon renewal. The original

coverage remains in force. Cancelled checks are proof of renewal and receipts

for payment are mailed only upon request.

A second renewal notice will be mailed around Dec. 10, 1964, and a

final notice will be mailed in January. If Legionnaires have already renewed

their insurance, they should disregard the follow-up notices.

Nearly 10,000 renewals are being processed each week and it is expected

by the close of 1964, nearly all insured will have reported 1965 enrollments

and renewed insurance. Replies to all inquiries will be made as rapidly as

possible during this very busy period.