PROCEEDINGS
of the
National Executive Committee
of
THE AMERICAN LEGION
National Headquarters Indianapolis, Indiana
May 4-5, 2011
Table of Contents
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Invocation ...... 1 Roll Call ...... 2 Opening Remarks: Jimmie L. Foster, National Commander ...... 4 Greetings: Carlene E. Ashworth, American Legion Auxiliary National President ...... 8 Special Memorial Resolution for Frank Buckles ...... 9 Report: Subcommittee on Resolutions...... 10 Memorial Resolutions ...... 11 Eulogies for Past National Commander John H. Geiger ...... 12 Resolution No. 1: The American Legion John H. Geiger Operations Center ...... 18 Report: National Historian ...... 20 Report: Americanism Commission ...... 21 Resolutions: No. 37: Junior Law Cadet Program ...... 27 No. 38: Proper Display, Care and Respect of the American Flag ...... 28 Report: Membership and Post Activities Committee ...... 29 Report: Finance Commission ...... 33 Emblem Committee ...... 36 Insurance Committee ...... 37 Resolutions: No. 2: Award the 2018 National Convention to the City of Minneapolis, Minnesota ...... 38 No. 3: Award the 2019 National Convention to the City of Indianapolis, Indiana .. 39 No. 4: National Convention Registration Fee ...... 40 No. 5: Amending Guidelines for the National Convention Stabilization Fund ...... 40 No. 6: Armed Services Academy Awards Update ...... 42 No. 7: Authorization for The American Legion and Legion Racing to Enter Into an Agreement with US Coin Boards, LLC, to Raise Funds for the Legion Racing Freedom Car ...... 43 No. 8: 2011 American Legion Boys Nation Contract ...... 44 No. 9: Authority to Amend Agreement with Michael Peterson ...... 44 No. 10: Rescinding of Res. No. 17, National Executive Committee, October 2009--Travel Policy for Call-Ins ...... 45 No. 11: Establishment of The American Legion Amateur Radio Club ...... 45 No. 12: Label the Four Pillars on the National Headquarters Building in Indianapolis ...... 46 No. 13: Rescission of Outdated Resolutions ...... 47 No. 14: Rescinding of Insurance Resolutions ...... 50 Reports: 2010 National Convention Committee of Wisconsin ...... 56 National Convention Commission ...... 58 Resolutions: No. 40: 2014 National Convention Contract...... 61 No. 15: Rescinding of National Convention Commission Resolutions ...... 61 Report: Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission ...... 63 Resolutions: No. 35: The American Legion Position on the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Strategic Capital Investment Planning (SCIP) Program ...... 76
iii
No. 36: Improvements Needed for the Department of Veterans Affairs Benefits for Veterans Who Have Served in a Combat Theater ...... 77
Wednesday Afternoon Session
Resolutions: No. 41: Rescinding Non-Legislative Resolutions from the Subcommittee on Resolutions ...... 79 No. 42: Appointment of a Veterans Policy Oversight Committee ...... 85 No. 43: Centennial Task Force for the Future ...... 86 Report: Foreign Relations Commission ...... 87 Resolutions: No. 18: POW/MIA Accounting Policies ...... 92 No. 19: Rescinding Obsolete Resolutions Dealing with Foreign Relations ...... 93 Report: The American Legion Magazine Commission ...... 94 Report: Commission on Children and Youth ...... 96 Resolution No. 39: Rescinding of Children & Youth Non-Legislative Policy Resolutions ...... 99 Report: National Security Commission ...... 102 Resolutions: No. 20: Flexible Savings Accounts ...... 108 No. 21: Uniform Standards for Combat Military Occupational Specialties ...... 109 No. 22: Oppose Widow's Tax ...... 110 No. 23: Military Readiness ...... 111 No. 24: The American Legion's Position on Tricare ...... 112 No. 25: Rare Earth Elements ...... 113 No. 26: Reserves and National Guard Retirement Benefit Fairness ...... 114 No. 27: Rescinding Obsolete Resolutions Dealing with National Security ...... 114 Report: Ad Hoc Committee for TBI/PTS ...... 125 Report: Economic Commission ...... 131 Resolutions: No. 28: Support Licensure and Certification Standards for Veterans Health Administration ...... 141 No. 29: Rescind Resolution 20, NEC, October 13-14, 2010, Support a Veteran Centric Website for Employment ...... 142 No. 30: Support a National Employment Website for Veterans ...... 143 Report: Internal Affairs Commission...... 146 Trophies, Awards & Ceremonials Committee ...... 148 2010 Official Awards ...... 151 2011 Unofficial Awards ...... 158 Sons of the American Legion ...... 162 Resolutions: No. 31: Creation of a Committee to Formulate Plans for Observance of the 100th Anniversary of The American Legion ...... 169 No. 32: Amend Resolution 35: 'American Legion Riders as a National Program' National Executive Committee, October 17-18, 2007 ...... 170 No. 33: Retirement of the POW/MIA Flag as Part of the POW/MIA Empty Chair Ceremony ...... 171 No. 34: Rescind Resolution 14, NEC, May 5-6, 2010, 100th Anniversary Commemorative American Legion Coin ...... 171
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Thursday, May 5, 2011
Invocation ...... 175 Roll Call ...... 175 Report: Public Relations Commission ...... 177 Resolution No. 16: Rescinding of Public Relations Non-Legislative Policy Resolutions ...... 183 Report: Legislative Commission ...... 185 Resolution No. 17: Rescinding of National Legislative Program Non-Legislative Policy Resolutions ...... 198 Confirmation of Cancellation of Post and/or Squadron Charters ...... 202 Confirmation of Dates for Future Meetings ...... 206 Resolution No. 40: 2014 National Convention Contract ...... 209 Final Report of the Subcommittee on Resolutions ...... 210 Closing Remarks: Jimmie L. Foster, National Commander ...... 211 Benediction ...... 212 Abbreviations ...... 213 Index ...... 215
v
PROCEEDINGS
of the
NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
... At 9:00 a.m., May 4, 2011, the National Executive Committee of The American Legion was called to order by National Commander Jimmie L. Foster, and the following proceedings were had.
NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: I call the meeting to order. At this time we'll have the invocation by Reverend Daniel J. Seehafer from Wisconsin, our national chaplain. Please uncover.
Invocation Rev. Daniel J. Seehafer, Wisconsin, National Chaplain
Family, we pray. Heavenly Father, it seems like death is always big news: The latest murder; the latest tragedy; the latest disease; the latest killing, like that of bin Laden. Yet Lord, you are our God of life. And it's not just ironic, but rather Your will that to gather us together here at these spring meetings as You continue to empower us to open doors; to bring about new fresh beginnings, as well as showing compassion, love and really life, life to our fellow veterans and their precious families. For it's personal, very personal to us. So, we humbly ask for Your Holy presence and Your powerful guidance this morning as the greatest message of life is evident, that is evidently seen in what we say and do as we serve America's veterans every day. We pray this in Your life-giving name, and so it shall be. Amen.
Pledge of Allegiance and Preamble to the Constitution of the American Legion
NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: The national sergeant-at-arms will lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance, please. …At this time the National Executive Committee recited the Pledge of Allegiance. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Please recover. Since we are at the covered position, if you would please join me in the salute to the Colors of our nation. Hand salute. Two. Please join me in the Preamble to the Constitution. …At this time the National Executive Committee recited the Preamble to the Constitution of The American Legion. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Please be seated. At this time if you would be in a moment of observation, our National Chaplin will conduct the POW/MIA Ceremony. POW/MIA Remembrance Ceremony
NATIONAL CHAPLIN SEEHAFER: Resolution 288 adopted at the 67th Annual National Convention requires the designation of a POW/MIA chair at all official meetings of The American Legion. This is a symbol of thousands of American POW/MIA's still unaccounted for from all wars and conflicts involving our nation. The POW/MIA flag positioned to my left, let it serve as a reminder to all of us to spare no effort to secure the release of any American
2 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 prisoners, the repatriation of the remains of those who have been killed in action, and a full accounting of those who are still missing. Let us rededicate ourselves for this vital endeavor. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Thank you, Reverend. At this time recover, and I call on the national adjutant for the purpose of roll call.
Roll Call National Officers
National Commander Jimmie L. Foster, Alaska
National Adjutant Daniel S. Wheeler, Virginia
National Chaplain Rev. Daniel J. Seehafer, Wisconsin
National Vice Commanders Russell J. Henry, Louisiana John M. Mella, Michigan Carlos Orria-Medina, Puerto Rico Eugene Pykta, Rhode Island William F. Schrier, Washington
Past National Commanders
William E. Galbraith, Nebraska—Excused Butch L. Miller, Virginia Michael J. Kogutek, New YorkExcused Hon. Alan G. Lance, IdahoExcused Keith A. Kreul, WisconsinExcused Ray G. Smith, North Carolina Clarence M. Bacon, Maryland Richard J. Santos, Maryland John P. Comer, Massachusetts Ronald F. Conley, Pennsylvania Hon. H. F. Gierke, North Dakota Hon. John A. Brieden, III, Texas Miles S. Epling, West Virginia Thomas P. Cadmus, Michigan Robert S. Turner, Georgia Thomas L. Bock, Colorado Dominic D. DeFrancesco, Pennsylvania—Excused Paul A. Morin, Massachusetts Bruce Thiesen, California Martin F. 'Marty' Conatser, Illinois William M. Detweiler, Louisiana Robert W. Spanogle, Michigan Daniel A. Ludwig, Minnesota David K. Rehbein, Iowa Joseph J. Frank, Missouri Clarence E. Hill, Florida Anthony G. Jordan, Maine
National Executive Committeemen
Department Committeemen Alternate Alabama F. Wayne Turner Alaska James E. Pisa Arizona Deodoro M. Aguilar Arkansas Cleave B. Weiss California Edward C. Landis Colorado Ralph P. Bozella
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 3 Connecticut Richard W. Anderson Delaware Lyman R. Brenner D.C. Theodore A. Webb Florida Robert J. Proctor France Liam Kane Georgia Charles F. Wessinger Hawaii Andrew W. Johnson Idaho Wayne D. Mitchell Illinois Eugene Thompson Indiana W. Darrell Hansel Iowa John J. Ross Kansas David O. Warnken Kentucky Randall Coffman Louisiana Charles D. Aucoin Maine Robert A. Owen Maryland Leroy E. Thornton Massachusetts Milton K. Lashus Mexico Jerry A. King Michigan Darwin Krieger Minnesota Raymond DeZurik Mississippi Robert E. Gosa Missouri Richard A. Heigert Montana Sylvia A. M. Beals Nebraska Douglas L. Boldt Nevada Ron Gutzman New Hampshire John E. Neylon New Jersey William 'Billy' Mack New Mexico Taurino J. Trevino New York Richard R. Keiser North Carolina Jerry L. Hedrick North Dakota Curtis O. Twete Ohio Henry S. Long Oklahoma Warren D. Wilson Oregon Charles E. Schmidt Pennsylvania Richard A. Coccimiglio Philippines Charles H. Cathey, Jr. Excused Herbert J. Scholten Puerto Rico Alberto Rodriguez Excused Monserrate OquendoExcused Rhode Island Ronald P. Levasseur South Carolina Billy W. Bell South Dakota Paul A. Evenson Tennessee Rollen D. Bradshaw, Sr. Texas James E. Prendergast Utah William E. Christoffersen Vermont Barbara Bushaw Virginia George C. Lussier, Jr.Excused Thomas E. Saunders Washington Michael L. Montaney West Virginia William W. Kile Wisconsin David L. Gough Wyoming Gerald L. Jacobs
4 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 NATIONAL ADJUTANT WHEELER: Mr. Commander, that completes the roll call. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: I declare a quorum.
Reading of Minutes of Previous Meeting NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: At this time we'll have the reading of the minutes from the previous meeting. RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: Mr. Commander, the minutes have been printed and distributed in digest form. I move they be approved without being read. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Motion on the floor for approval without being read since they have been printed in digest form. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried. At this time we'll have remarks from the national adjutant.
Announcements
NATIONAL ADJUTANT WHEELER: Mr. Commander, the National Commander's Dinner honoring the NEC is tonight at the Sheraton City Centre in Indianapolis. The reception will be held in the Circle Suites at 6:00 p.m. Dinner will be served in the Meridian Ballroom at 7:00 p.m. NECmen who haven't yet submitted names of attendees will find a bright yellow form on their desk. This needs to be completed and returned to Kevin Long. The cutoff for seating request is 10:00 a.m. this morning. So, if you have a yellow form, please complete it and turn it in immediately. Tickets will be available for pick-up after lunch. You will also notice that there are no chairs on the left side of the entrance in the back of the room. This is to permit wheelchair access, so please observe that. That completes the announcements, Mr. Commander. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Thank you, Mr. Adjutant. ... At this time National Vice Commander Mella assumed the Chair.
Opening Remarks Jimmie L. Foster, Alaska National Commander
Good morning, national officers, past national commanders, and members of the NEC and all of our distinguished guests. It is a great time to be an American, and especially a Legionnaire. The death of Osama bin Laden is a testament to the skill and bravery of the SEALS and intelligence operatives that carried out this raid. It was an important victory in our Global War on Terrorism. More than 4,000 American servicemen and women have died and more than 40,000 wounded while serving in this war. Due to al-Qaeda's virus-like apparatus, every member of the United States military, intelligence and law enforcement communities contributed in their own way to the downfall of this international terrorist. The war is not over, however. The evil ideology that spawned it still exists and America must remain vigilant against the threats of radical Islam. On a much lighter note, it is a great time to be a Legionnaire. The opportunities in which our organizations are engaged make this an exciting time indeed. You have all heard of American Idol. Well, stay tuned for The Making of a Star. This reality talent show will be filming auditions this month at selected American Legion posts across our
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 5 great country. Contestants will all be military veterans, including active duty, Guard and Reservists. The show will be broadcast on the CW Network starting this summer. Not only will this mean free national exposure for The American Legion on a weekly television show, but producers are also promising to make substantial and significant contributions to our existing American Legion programs. More details about this opportunity are available on our website at www.legion.org. I don't have to tell you what a difference financial contributions to The American Legion programs can make in the lives of our heroes and our communities across this great nation. Thanks to the support of the people in this room, last year Operation Comfort Warriors finished first in the Pepsi Refresh Everything competition. For the past 12 months, we have spent $250,000 in prize money directly on improving the quality of life for our wounded warriors. Recently, the wounded warrior battalion at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, asked for our assistance in starting a photography club. Photography is not only an enjoyable hobby, but it is also a potentially lucrative job skill, and it offers therapeutic value for people with traumatic brain injuries as they attempt to rebuild their memories and their cognitive abilities. I would like to read to you a letter I received on April the 19th: "Commander Foster. On behalf of the United States Marine Corps, I would like to personally thank you for The American Legion's generous gift of digital cameras and equipment to the Marines and sailors of Wounded Warrior Battalion West. Your contribution and commitment of support to the brave men and women who have so courageously defended our great nation during a time of war is truly and much appreciated. "The Marine Corps Wounded Warrior Regiment (WWR) ensures prompt delivery of non-medical care to the nation's wounded, ill and injured Marines as they recover. WWR provides programs and services to help our Marines successfully return to duty or to reintegrate into their communities. These programs and services are wide ranging and include counseling and assistance regarding benefits and financial support, athletic activities and competition, wholesome recreational activities and educational and employment counseling. "I am pleased to let you know that the generosity you have shown to our Marines will make a positive difference in their lives. With the WWR's programs and services and your contribution, wounded, ill and injured Marines will continue to thrive as they focus on their abilities, rather than their limitations. These resilient Marines have achieved remarkable goals: They have returned to the fight; become award-winning athletes; found success even on Wall Street, and given back to their communities as productive citizens. With support such as yours, these resilient warriors can truly accomplish anything. "Again, thank you for your generous donation and support of WWR's missions. Please convey my sincere appreciation to everyone associated with this kind gift. If you would like additional information or you would like to know more about some of our inspirational Marines, please visit the regiment's website at www.woundedwarriorregiment.org or follow the regiment on Facebook. "Sincerely, George J. Flynn, Lieutenant General, United States Marine Corps Commanding General." A letter like this sums up what is great about our American Legion family. Yes, we are a great and influential grassroots lobbying group, but it is our service, service to God, country and our communities that set us far apart. We don't just memorize and recite our Four Pillars. We live them. The recent tornadoes and other disasters offer another example. Our National Emergency Fund provides much needed support to the people affected by these tragedies, and we do so much with minimal delay. This organization was able to do great things
6 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 because of the work done at local levels by members of The American Legion family and the great generosity of our many donors. We are also having another great success this year with our new affinity partner, USAA, which provides quality financial services to our members. Just watch a few hours of television and you will probably see their ads. That is the mark of a successful company, and best of all it is run by fellow veterans and our fellow Legionnaires. While I could be here for days citing example after example about service, serious issues currently face our country, issues that make our advocacy more needed than ever. A few weeks ago our federal government narrowly averted a shutdown. Most disturbing was the fact that plans were made to pay our military personnel retroactively. The American Legion issued a statement reminding those affected about the services that we offer through our Temporary Financial Assistance and the Family Support Network. But there is only so much that we can do. We cannot replace military paychecks. There is legislation currently pending in both chambers of Congress that would ensure that servicemembers will be paid on-time in the event of future government shutdowns. The bills are House Resolution 1297, and Senate Resolution 777. Paying our troops on-time for their outstanding work needs to be the law of the land, not an exception. (Applause) We also need to ensure that the best health care system anywhere is accessible to any veteran who needs it. We have long called for VA to accept Medicare, a program that veterans pay into through their payroll taxes. They should be able to use this benefit, which is paid for, in the health care system that was specifically created for them. It is also important to remember that America is no longer engaged in two wars. We are engaged in three. Regardless of the extent of our involvement in Libya, and that remains a question that must be answered very soon, it is important to remember that United States military forces are deployed in more than 150 countries worldwide. We must provide them the resources that they need to succeed and accomplish their mission. Through our programs, our advocacy and our outreach, The American Legion will continue to improve the quality of life for these heroes and their families. The American Legion fights for what's right. They always have, and always will. I would be remiss if I did not recognize the Department of Pennsylvania in its recent victory over a developer who wanted to build a casino next to the Gettysburg battlefield. Special thanks to Past National Commander Ron Conley; NECman Rich Coccimiglio; Alternate NECman John Gasper; Commander Pete Wasco, and Adjutant Kit Watson. They took a lot of heat by local residents who seemed to be swayed by economic interests than what was right. Another righteous battle is the fight to protect our flag from physical desecration. Senator Orin Hatch from Utah, and Representative Jo Ann Emerson from Missouri have once again introduced a flag amendment in the United States Congress. And it simply states, folks: "The Congress shall have power to prohibit the physical desecration of the flag of the United States." Ask your congressional delegation to support the flag amendment. It's been 22 long years since the Supreme Court took away our right to protect Old Glory from physical desecration. While it's unlikely that the amendment will get the support of the White House, I have had a very productive meeting with President Barack Obama on March the 28th in the West Wing of the White House. We discussed several important issues including the VA disability claims backlog, which is still unacceptable. We had a great dialog and I emphasized the importance of DoD giving us access to returning veterans so we can better assist them in their transition. Both the President and the First Lady seemed genuinely committed to improving the lives of military families. While Washington seems to be divided along political lines, service to veterans and their familiar should always be placed above political partisanship.
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 7 Over the last several years, thanks largely to the advocacy of The American Legion, Congress and the White House have taken steps to eliminate the Disability Veterans Tax for some military retirees. The American Legion, however, will not put this issue to rest until this unjust tax is completely abolished for all who are penalized because they had the audacity to be injured while pursuing a military career. We stand in strong support of the Retired Pay Restoration Act, and the Disabled Veterans Tax Termination Act. On the economic front, unemployment and homelessness among veterans are still way too high. The American Legion is doing its part by conducting job fairs nationwide. We expect the federal government to enforce its veterans preference hiring laws and to help VA Secretary Eric Shinseki keep his promise to eliminate veteran homelessness in five years. Jobs and treatment for substance abuse are powerful tools in helping veterans reclaim their lives as productive citizens. Recently, The American Legion conducted a comprehensive survey about women veterans and the VA as a whole. The report was very lengthy and thorough, but there was one unmistakable conclusion: There is still work that needs to be done. In most categories 30 to 40 percent of the people surveyed said they were not happy with the services that they had already received. We must frequently remind policymakers and the public that the cost of freedom does not end when the battles are over. If the cost of caring for disabled veterans is too high, then perhaps our elected leaders need to stop creating so many of them. Finally, there is membership. This is everybody's job. Aren't you getting tired of hearing the two point four million member American Legion? Let's make it higher. There is strength in numbers. Only through a strong membership program can we improve our services and increase our already given influence. There are many other important issues to discuss in the next couple of days, and I'm confident that together, everyone in this room and our American Legion family across the country, we can all come up with the best solutions to accomplish any mission at hand. Let's have a great meeting and thank you ladies and gentlemen for your support. (Standing applause) ...At this time National Commander Foster resumed the Chair.
NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: At this time, sergeant-at-arms, would you please escort the national president of The American Legion Auxiliary, Carlene "Sure Shot" Ashworth, to the front. (Standing applause) ...At this time National Vice Commander Schrier assumed the Chair. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: If I can give you just one little quote here. We were touring Operation Reconnect when we visited South Carolina. We went to Fort Jackson, South Carolina, and we went to the rifle range. So, we all used just whatever weapon they threw us, not the windage and elevation that was calibrated on the new M4. So, I asked the Sergeant Major, "Give me nine rounds." He goes, "Negative, because you're going to walk that bullet right down to the bull." He goes, "No way." And I said, "Okay." So, she goes ahead of me, and I have to admit publicly here that she out-shot me by one target, and that's tough to take, so that's why I called her "Sure Shot Ashworth." (Laughter and applause) It's a great honor and privilege to have a great national president of The American Legion Auxiliary. She served the organization and served us well. Criss-crossing America. We went to the Far East. We'll go to Europe together, and many places we went together. And let's give Carlene Ashworth a great American Legion hand. (Applause)
8 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 Greetings: Mrs. Carlene E. Ashworth, Texas, National President American Legion Auxiliary
Thank you very much. What an honor and a privilege it is to be able to come before you this morning and bring you greetings from the 850,000 or so American Legion Auxiliary members from around the country and around the world. It's been a great year so far serving with all of you and to serve with the wonderful national commander of The American Legion, the largest patriotic organization in the world. We have had a great time together in the many times we have criss-crossed our paths. And then also I just want to share with all of you and thank you so very much for the tremendous hospitality that so many of you have given to me as I visited your departments. And I can't tell you, commander, what a pleasure it's been to be able to share a lot of time with our Legionnaires, and how gracious you've all have been to me and how special you've made me feel with the honors that you've given me when I've come to be with your departments. It's a privilege to meet many of you, and I can tell you that The American Legion and The American Legion Auxiliary is alive and well and doing wonderful things out in our field, out in our VA hospitals, veterans homes, every place that we have men and women who have served our country. We've visited several military bases. I've lost count of all the veterans homes and VA hospital and medical facilities that I have been to. And it's such an honor to meet so many fine, fine young men and women who have served and are serving our country. I've had the honor and been able to interact with veterans and servicemembers in all kinds of places. And some of the really special things that I've been able to do is to meet with some of our young wounded warriors who are trying to get themselves back into good health after having severe injuries in many ways, and to be able to try to get their bodies repaired. But you know, all the visits that we do, all the things that we do, are certainly not enough, and not taking care of all our men and women who are out there serving. We've got to do more, and I think that we will continue to do that. We will continue to move forward and do what we're supposed to be doing, and that's making sure that our servicemen and women, our veterans, wherever they may be, whether it's in rural communities whether it's in a domiciliary whether it's in a veterans home, are taken care of, and that's our mission, and that's certainly what we intend to keep doing. The Auxiliary has a great initiative this year that we are working on, and that's an initiative on civility in trying to make sure that we get along with each other. And I want to ask all of you this morning to help us with that within your home departments. We need your support to make sure that our Auxiliary members and our Legionnaires are getting along in their posts. Because every time we have a problem or a situation there, that's taking away from what we should be doing, and that's to take care of our veterans. So, I'm asking your help in promoting this within your own departments, and asking you to help us to work together with honor and pride in serving each other and serving our veterans. Harmony I believe is a very critical issue. I know it's not limited to The American Legion Auxiliary. I know that there are also some problems in The American Legion and all the other things that we do. So, I really hope that you will help support us. I want to thank the commander again for letting us have the opportunity to be able to visit together in some of the places we've gone to. To have the opportunity to visit with some of our veterans, and I'm looking forward to our trip to Europe. We had a wonderful trip to the Far East last fall. I know that this one is going to be a great trip also. And I just want to thank you again, commander, for letting me share this time and be able to visit these places together.
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 9 I'm not too sure about his "sure shot" story. I don't know for sure about that score. But anyway, I'm going to take it if he wants to give it to me. (Laughter) I don't mind doing that. I've had a lot of fun with people coming around me and they kind of, you know, they want to stay out of my way, so that's okay, I'm harmless. I want to thank you again for all that you do. It's a privilege and an honor to serve all of you as your national president of The American Legion Auxiliary. I've had a wonderful year. We still got a few months left to go. I have an extremely busy schedule the next two months. In fact, I really don't get home again; I was home again this past week. I don't get home again until the end of the month right before we go to Europe. I'm home for like two days. After that I don't really get home again until July sometime, and that's at the end of July. So, our schedule is very, very busy. I will tell you that if I live through it between now and the end of July, I will have visited every single department and our Far East and European trips. So, it's a privilege and honor for me to be able to do that, and to say that. So, I hope I can hold out my energy until I get through the end of July. Commander, I do have a presentation I would like to give you. Here is a check from The American Legion Auxiliary for the Child Welfare Foundation. And I want to give that to you if I could, please. And thank you again. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Two thousand five hundred dollars for the Child Welfare Foundation. Let's give them a hand. (Applause) NATIONAL PRESIDENT ASHWORTH: Thank you again for all that you're doing out there. Thank you again for all the great hospitality you're giving to our Auxiliary members wherever they are. Ladies and gentlemen, I cannot ever, ever, ever, and I say this all the time, thank all of you. We cannot thank all of you enough for the service that you've given to our country; the service that you continue to give as Legionnaires. We can never tell you thank you enough. And I just appreciate everything that you all do; will continue to do, so, God bless all of you. God bless all of our troops wherever they are, and serving always, God bless America. (Standing applause) Thank you very much. ... At this time National Commander Foster resumed the Chair. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: At this time I call on Jerry Hedrick for the memorializing resolution for Frank Buckles, last surviving American veteran from World War I. Please uncover.
Special Memorial Resolution for Frank Buckles, New York Last surviving American Veteran of World War I
WHEREAS, Frank Buckles, the last living U.S. World War I veteran, passed away Feb. 27, 2011, at the age of 110 ; and WHEREAS, Frank Buckles, wanting to serve his country, lied about his age in order to join the U.S. Army in 1917 after being rejected by the U.S. Navy and Marines for medical reasons; and WHEREAS, Frank Buckles, in order to get to Europe as quickly as possible once in the Army, joined the ambulance service and was assigned to the Western Front for the remainder of the war; and WHEREAS, After leaving the Army as a corporal, Frank Buckles went to work on cargo and passenger ships before being sent to Manila in 1940 as a freight expediter, where he spent three years in the Los Baños prison camp after the Japanese invasion of the Philippines; and WHEREAS, While a prisoner, Frank Buckles routinely gave his food rations to children in the camp, resulting in his weight dropping to 75 pounds before the prisoners were liberated by U.S. troops; and
10 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 WHEREAS, After his release, Frank Buckles was a great ambassador and torchbearer for the 4.7 million Americans who served during World War I, lobbying until the end for the National World War I Memorial; and WHEREAS, Frank Buckles was a member of American Legion Merchant Marine Post 945 in Jefferson, N.Y., and was a member of the Legion for nearly 80 years; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion, in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on this 4th Day of May in the year of our Lord 2011, does mourn the passing of "the last doughboy," Frank Buckles, that we commend to all men his works and to God his spirit; and, be it finally RESOLVED, That in token of our common grief, a copy of this resolution be presented to his family.
NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Recover, please. At this time we'll have Jerry Hedrick from North Carolina, chairman of the Resolutions Subcommittee, for his resolution report.
Oral Report: Subcommittee on Resolutions Jerry L. Hedrick, North Carolina, Chairman
Mr. Commander, your Subcommittee on Resolutions has been in session for the last two days, reviewing resolutions to be presented to the National Executive Committee. We have 43 resolutions that we will be presenting, coming from the commissions and committees who will make reports. Any resolutions dealing with the commission will follow that report. All other resolutions that have been disposed of by other action or held for further study and will be reported out as an addendum. Mr. Commander, I wish to bring to the attention of this body, a situation your subcommittee has encountered during the past several meetings. We have spent more time than usual correcting resolutions because of poor grammar, unclear intent, and contradictory statements both within a single resolution and a previously approved resolution. Therefore, I have sent a memorandum. It should be on your desk somewhere. The memorandum is to all commission chairmen, division directors and executive directors with information copies to the National Officers, the National Executive Committee, and Alternates. I shall read a small part of that memorandum. "As I reminded everyone last year, a resolution is a corporate ordinance. Its legal definition is 'a formal expression of the opinion or will and decision of an official body adopted by a vote.' Essentially, therefore, a resolution sets forth the corporate law adopted by the Board of Directors or National Convention. It is an order to corporate officers, participants and staff, setting forth a corporate position and/or directs corporate action. While progress has been made and training for directors held, there is still improvement needed in our resolution writing. "A resolution must be unambiguous, germane, grammatical, properly spelled, concise, and in proper form. Hence, it is the responsibility of every commission and committee chairman and director to ensure these resolutions meet all requirements." Members of the National Executive Committee, the writing of resolutions is a very important business. I hope that you will join me in emphasizing that these documents are legal documents, and as such should be given the appropriate due diligence. And I thank you for that. Mr. Commander, if you will prepare the NEC for memorializing resolutions. …At this time the national commander asked the National Executive Committee to uncover, and they stood in silence for the reading of the following memorial resolutions.
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 11 Memorial Resolutions John H. Geiger (Illinois)
WHEREAS, It has pleased almighty God, the Great Commander, to summon to His immortal legions our beloved comrade, John H. Geiger, Department Vice Commander 1958 to 1959; Department Commander 1959 to 1960; Alternate National Executive Committee Member 1961 to 1963; National Executive Committee Member 1963 to 1965; National Commander 1971 to 1973; and WHEREAS, Even more so, John H. Geiger was an exceptional person, friend and mentor, leaving behind him generations of Legionnaires who benefitted from his knowledge and experience; and WHEREAS, John H. Geiger was a great leader long after his tenure as national commander, serving as a strong advocate for veterans health care within his own state of Illinois and across the nation, and providing guidance to the National Executive Committee; and WHEREAS, John H. Geiger was lauded by his fellow Legion leaders for making decisions that always put the good of The American Legion, not himself or other individuals, first; and WHEREAS, Being a World War II veteran who knew well the common bond of service, John H. Geiger saw no generation gap between service – to him, "a veteran was a veteran" – and he made it a point to understand the needs of younger veterans; and WHEREAS, With that understanding, during his tenure as national commander, John H. Geiger urged all Legionnaires to write three letters – one to their U.S. representative and one to each of their senators – calling for improvements to the GI Bill for Vietnam War veterans; and WHEREAS, Through his love of the organization, John H. Geiger left behind a legacy that will never be forgotten; and WHEREAS, We humbly bow to the will of Divine Providence, while ever cherishing in our hearts the memory of his distinguished service to our country and his outstanding contributions to American Legion comradeship; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion, in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on this 4th Day of May in the year of our Lord 2011, that we do mourn the passing of our distinguished Legionnaire, John H. Geiger, and that we commend to all men his works and to God his spirit; and, be it finally RESOLVED, That in token of our common grief, a copy of this resolution be presented to his family.
Similar resolutions will be presented to the families of: James A. Lane (Alabama); Gary A. 'Red' Smart (Alaska); Homer Connell (Arkansas); Charles L. Parnell (California); Louis E. Molinaro (Connecticut); Albert A. C. Mark (Hawaii); Toma Tasaki (Hawaii); Lowell W. Sullivan (Indiana); James I. Miller (Indiana); Robert E. Stewart (Kentucky); David G. Sanborn (Maine); Merlon R. Kingsley (Maine); Orlyn C. Oestereich (Maryland); Alex Ilczuk (Maryland); Joseph M. Steen (Massachusetts); E. D. 'Joe' Skinner (Mexico); William C. Anderson (Michigan); Elwin O. 'Al' Kline (Michigan); Sam W. Waggoner, III (Mississippi); Henry L. Trest (Mississippi); James H. Herring (Mississippi); Billy B. West (Mississippi); Elizabeth M. Quinlin (Missouri); Irvin M. Etzold (Missouri); Charles G. Pappas (New Mexico); William 'Willie' Delgado (New Mexico); Arturo Besa (Oklahoma); Joseph W. Socha (Pennsylvania); George W. Rollings (South Carolina); Wilson Pendarvis (South Carolina); Glenn R. Green (South Dakota); Lewis W. Emerich (Texas); John B. McKinney (Texas); Val Smith (Utah); James L. LaShure (Virginia); Richard D. Smith (Washington); Howard W. Jessen, Sr. (Washington); and Terry G. Troutman (Wisconsin).
12 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011
In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below. We are the Dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie In Flanders fields. Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields. John McCrae, May 1915
NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Please recover. RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN HEDRICK: Mr. Commander, I would like to ask that you recognize the following people for the purpose of eulogies, in this order: Marty Conatser; Bill Christoffersen; Jake Comer; Ron Conley, and when it comes time for Dick Pedro, I would like to ask that you give him the recognition as well for presenting his eulogy, and Bob Spanogle. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Permission granted. Past National Commander Marty Conatser.
Eulogies for Past National Commander John H. Geiger
PAST NATIONAL COMMANDER CONATSER: As a young Legionnaire, I didn't know a Mr. Geiger. As a young Legionnaire from Illinois I knew John Geiger. It amazed me at my first National Convention when John spent a little time with some of the upstarts, I guess you would call us at that time, and so many people wouldn't even come up and talk to John. They were a little bit afraid of him. And I never understood that as a young Legionnaire. We never saw that part of him in Illinois. We always understood him as John. The go-to guy when you had a question, when you had an issue, when you had a cause. And John had a way never to discourage you. John had a way of keeping you between the lines though, and I think a lot of people in this room have had that situation where he kept you where you were supposed to be, without killing your excitement for The American Legion. Whatever project you were trying to do, whatever mission you were trying to accomplish, John had that way of saying, "Have you thought about?" That's a rare quality. Where he could have well said, "No, that's not the way we do it." He never said that. He always made you think, and bring yourself back to the center. That's a real quality. John gave great advice, but I really don't think advice is the right word. Probably guidance was a better word. He talked about bridging generations. John thought a veteran was a veteran, across all the generations, and only because he always asked the question when you brought him an idea, when you brought something that you wanted his support, he always asked, "Is it good for The American Legion or is it good for you?" That's a great test of anything we should do. John talked a lot about his upbringing in Iowa. I'm glad he escaped. (Laughter) Illinois was much richer for it. But he talked about his father and their involvement in
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 13 growing up, even before he had eligibility. Talked about how they coordinated with the Red Cross and did all those things. John really knew what it meant for the Legion to serve your community. He knew what it meant at the lowest levels of what we do, and knew what it meant at the highest levels. How many people ever get that opportunity? I tend to judge a man on how their family turned out. Many of you have not had the opportunity when John got ill, and I had not to that point had the opportunity to meet his family and see the strength. And you had to spend a little time with them to understand the values that John held so dear, are truly implanted into his family. They stood strong in a very trying time, probably stronger than some of us that were going to visit him at that point, probably much stronger. But they are an outstanding family. They came together and really John would have been proud. Now, on a little lighter note, before I get too carried away here. I spent a lot of hours with John in the last few years in a transition mode for Illinois on many things, and I always loved when he used to tell me the true story behind Legion history. Many in this room have had the opportunity to sit with John and talk about the characters of The American Legion and how certain things happened at certain times. And he always called that the true history of The American Legion. The little things that happened that made and set our traditions. That was a great quality of John. He would sit down and talk about how we've gotten to where we are today. Most of the people in this room were touched by John Geiger in one way or the other, and touched by Mr. Geiger. I preferred to be touched by John. Some called him the fifth pillar of The American Legion. Some called him a statesman. Some called him a mentor. Some called him a leader. I prefer to call him friend. He was a great Legionnaire, but he was an even better friend. (Applause)
NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Bill Christoffersen. NEC MEMBER CHRISTOFFERSEN (UT): This is a little hard for me today, to pay tribute to a long time friend, John. You know, my first encounter with John was back in 1959 when we were new recruits on the block as department commanders. We were at the Indy Athletic Club for the annual Legion Commanders dinner. Some of us newly elected individuals during a get together, got acquainted in the social session. We were in a circle discussing what was required for the year as a state commander, and as the commanders of the other states, some from Texas and around talked about their reimbursements, some of the things they had, a department automobile or out of pocket expense, you name it, the more it went, the more I wanted to get out of the circle. I was somewhat reluctant to report in Utah we had an $800 budget, and I had to share that with the 1st and 2nd vice commanders. In addition, you drive your own automobile, 20-25,000 miles that year. I'll never forget what John's comment was. He looked at me and he said, "Good hell man, you're either crazy or dedicated." Well, years later he told me I wasn't only dedicated, I was crazy dedicated. (Laughter) Anyway, he was a regular visitor to Utah before and after he became national commander. Some of you know that he was the architect for United Airlines when we were remodeling our airport. In addition to that, we had a river run out there that we go down on the Green River. So, he and his wife Vivienne would always come out every year and we would go on the river run. And he'd stay with us, my wife and I, he and Vivienne in our camper. And sometimes in our home when they were there at other visits. But the thing of it was, on the river runs, for some unknown reason the other Legionnaires that were on the raft with us got a big kick out of dunking John and myself in that ice cold Green River water. To get even with that, we had what we called a little tooter horn. Four o'clock in the morning he would run around tooting that horn getting everybody up to get even. (Laughter)
14 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 He was on board to help us, and especially myself, with our 1985, 1996 and 2006 National Conventions. And he was really taken with the memorial service, and some of you are acquainted with the LDS Tabernacle Choir, it's a memorial service second to none, and John always said so. My wife and I hosted that one year when John was there, we hosted a backyard party for the national staff. I told my wife we were going to have a few people come up for some steaks and a few things. And she said, "Oh, that's fine." Well, low and behold here comes a bus load. Well, between neighbors and her and John and everybody, we took care of it and it was a great evening. Following is partial list of requests that John helped me with behind the scenes to get favorable results. The Good Guy awards to Utah's All American football player, Merlin Olsen. The same to the LDS Church President, Gordon B. Hinckley, and the Distinguished Service Award to our well-known senator, Senator Orrin Hatch. He got the Distinguished Service Award. And also we were fortunate to have two national chaplains, one for each one of our two National Conventions, the last two. Anyway, he spent a lot of time, as I mentioned earlier, at the Salt Lake Airport. Well, at that time I had a trip with the Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce to Kirtland Air Force Base. And at that time I met General Claudius Watts, he was sitting next to me at the banquet. Come to find out, he was the chairman of the military to get facilities to build an upgrade to the C130. Come to find out after talking to him, he said, "Well, don't you tell anybody, but maybe we can get something in Utah to work with it." So, between John's position with the architectural thing at the airport, and I'm not bragging, but my acquaintance with General Claudius Watts, we were able to get a facility on the eastside of the Salt Lake Airport that hired over 550 people and it built the center section for the C130. So you can thank John, The American Legion, and we in Utah thank him for getting that facility. And today that facility is still there hiring over six to seven hundred people building parts for our Air Force. John and his wife were great, great people. And they were just down to earth. And then of course when Vivienne left John's life, later on Flo came to help fill in the void. And she also became a very good friend of ours. We thought the world of them. In closing, all I can say is may God bless John, and may his soul rest in peace. Thank you. (Applause)
NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Past National Commander Jake Comer, Massachusetts. PAST NATIONAL COMMANDER COMER: Thank you commander, and members of the National Executive Committee, John Geiger's family, and guests. I cannot speak personally as our friend from Utah on many of the personal sessions that he's had with John and his family, and Marty who knew him so well from his own state of Illinois. I speak, I hope, for many of you Legionnaires. I first met John in 1970 when he arrived in Massachusetts as a candidate for national commander, the year I was afforded the opportunity to wear my first white hat in The American Legion as I was a new Legionnaire. I was still as short as I am now, and I looked up to John. The fact that he would take time in the hospitality room to spend time to talk to you, and that's the type of individual he was. There isn't anyone that could walk down the hall on the fourth floor here or wherever we were, if they had a question and they wanted to stop and speak to John Geiger, he was ready and able. He never, never used his superiority, if you will, to not stop and discuss The American Legion with the Legionnaire. You can say that in the memorial resolutions that we had some fine individuals that were named along with him. You don't want to call it a class, certainly, but when I think
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 15 of the fact that we've now honored Mr. Buckles as the World War I representative certainly, and then to represent World War II, who else could it be but John Geiger. He would speak many times. He was proud in private when we would sit back in the room up in the headquarters, of his service in the Army in World War II as a tanker. You never asked what you do in the service, what you do for a living, but you know John to be an architect for the airport out there in Illinois, O'Hare, and certainly he was very proud of his Army service. But he had some fine men along to be memorialized here today when I think of my own Joe Steen who just a couple of years ago was the sergeant- at-arms for Paul Morin. And I can't help but leave without mentioning my mentor, the one of two men, him and Joe Matthews that was responsible for me to become national commander. They were around me all time and I didn't even know what the job was all about or if I even wanted it, and I speak of Glenn Green from South Dakota. What a great, great Legionnaire, and such a great friend of John Geiger's. But all I can say is that everything that I have been and everything I do, and I hope that I continue to follow the leadership of John Geiger who spent many private hours with myself in my capacity, but he shocked me when he was the one that called me in and said, "Jake, we want you to take over ANAVICUS." Things like that. You know, he was just unassuming. You did not have to go in and beg for any job with John Geiger. He knew the leaders, and he knew who he wanted to follow. He would always say to us, "Work around The American Legion. Work around the 50 states. You can see a young Legionnaire. Try to mentor him and try to get him in line for one of the leadership positions of The American legion, because we need to get out there and mentor those individuals." So, I thank you commander for the opportunity to allow me to come up here today and say a few words on behalf of a great, great friend. The great Legionnaire, John Geiger. Thank you. (Applause)
NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: I recognize Past National Commander Ron Conley from Pennsylvania. PAST NATIONAL COMMANDER CONLEY: Probably when you do eulogies, it's probably the toughest thing you have to do as a person. So members of the National Executive Committee, John Geiger's family, friends, and all gathered here for this occasion. Webster's Dictionary describes a gentleman as an educated, sensitive, well- mannered man, regarded as having qualities of refinement associated with a good family. No better definition of John Geiger exists than that in Webster's Dictionary under gentleman. We are here to reflect on an icon of The American Legion, John Geiger. In 1971 and '72, I had an opportunity to form an American Legion post in the community that I lived. Low and behold the individual who signed our charter, was a person named John Geiger. Never realizing that as I came through The American Legion that I would have an opportunity not only to know John Geiger, but to become a friend. That was the start of knowing who this person was that signed that charter. My mentor, one of my mentors, was Dr. Sebastianelli. He made it a point as I came up through the ranks of Pennsylvania, to make sure that I had the opportunity to meet the leadership of The American Legion, and particularly to meet his good friend, John Geiger, where they served together on many commissions and committees before John Geiger became national commander. He spoke of a person who was loyal, loyal to his friends, and loyal to The American Legion. He believed in loyalty. Loyalty means you share a common goal, and stand shoulder to shoulder to fight for that idea; confident in one another; good faith and trust
16 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 in each other. As I assumed leadership positions in The American Legion I had the opportunity to have conversations in the beginning with John Geiger and his commitment to The American Legion. As time went on, those conversations grew, deeper discussions about a person, about individuals, and about what your role might be as a future leader in The American Legion. He always had a pleasant word, and advice. And as years went by, we talked deeper about looking for future leaders in The American Legion. But one of the things that John did as he gave you advice, he always included talk about your family. He always asked how your family was doing. He never left that out of a conversation. John never told you what to do. He always had you think of what would be good for The American Legion. And he wanted to make sure that those who had leadership positions in The American Legion were the window for other people to see what The American Legion was about. He was a polished man. One who commanded authority, as a person of love and interest in our great organization, The American Legion. When John assumed the mantle of leadership, no finer person could they have picked, because he was the right person at the right time to ensure the foundation of our four pillars would never teeter or collapse. I know my life has been blessed through my association with John Geiger. Each of us here today is blessed, and thank God for the opportunity to have known such an individual as John Geiger. (Applause)
NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Recognize department adjutant from New York, Richard Pedro. DEPARTMENT ADJUTANT PEDRO (NY): Mr. Commander, distinguished members of the National Executive Committee, friends of The American Legion and dear friends of John Geiger. It's pretty difficult to stand here to speak about a gentleman who everybody had so, so much great feelings for. So, let me go back in my relationship with John. I was a young Legionnaire at the time. I met John in 1967. I've had a relationship with him for 44 years. I met him when he was candidate for national commander. The relationship between New York and Illinois at that time was a strong relationship, and still is, because of Jim Ringling and Maurice Stember, and those are names probably many of you have heard in the history of The American Legion, but I still have the memory to remember these people. So, that brought a relationship with John and I basically because he more or less worked under Jim and I more or less worked with Stember. That's how our relationship began as a candidate. In 1977 I had the opportunity to be placed on the National Commander's Advisory Committee, and worked constantly and continuously with John from 1977 throughout the Advisory Committee for the National Commander and had a very, very close relationship, and as many of you know we still had a very close relationship. Our backgrounds are similar. John was an architect, a designer, a developer. I was a mechanical designer. John worked in the air industry. I worked for IBM in the military products division on the Gemini and Apollo programs, so we had a relationship outside of The American Legion, similarities and on how we would attack and set-up different programs and so on. We had a relationship there. I always called him the fifth pillar. A gentleman I always looked up to, literally. In fact, I used to get a kick out of John because many times we'd be at crowded receptions, and John would say, "Where've you been? I haven't seen you." I said, "John, don't worry about it. I know where you are all the time." (Laughter) So, we had that strong relationship there. So, what I'm going to say now, is I'm going to do what I did when I was away and John wasn't here, I'm going to call him up on the phone. And the first thing I would say is, "John Geiger. Dick Pedro here. John, you should have been in Indianapolis last week. You should have heard the kind remarks everybody said about you. How great you were
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 17 and how great you certainly are. And the feelings they had for you, I know that you missed it, and I know that I want to report to you today and tell you what it's all about, and the great feelings they had for you." I cannot go on too much further with this. I had great feelings for John as you know. I looked forward to him and had a great relationship, working relationship. Still, my recollection takes me back to Veterans Day this past year when I went to see John. Seeing the strength of that man, and yet the condition he was in, and you could see in his eyes how pleased he was that we were there to see him, Jake and I went that day to see him. And how disheartening it was as we left to see John in that position, the little strength he had, and we knew in our hearts he could come out of that. He did not. So, John, as I want to say now, you would have been proud certainly in hearing, and I'm sure you do, I think you're probably up there now with Glenn Green, Maurice Stember, Jim Ringling, Bill McKinley, all the guys in the history, and you're probably be raising things, putting things in place up there now and might have a few people watching you kind of close there. I'm sure you'll put it all together. All I can say to you my dear friend, is God bless you John Geiger, and God rest your soul. Thank you very much. (Applause)
NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Past National Commander Bob Spanogle. PAST NATIONAL COMMANDER SPANOGLE: Mr. Commander, national officers, members of the National Executive Committee, and the Geiger family and guests. I'm honored to be present this morning to share some thoughts on the life and accomplishments and the contributions of our buddy, our comrade, John Geiger. There is not a person in this room who does not know or recognize John's contributions to The American Legion. There is not a person in this room who does not know of John's service to his nation, in uniform, as a citizen, his love of family, his service to soldiers, veterans of this nation, their families and the children of this nation. He was our mentor. He was our friend. He was my friend. My buddy. He was a mentor to me of the first order. I first met John Geiger of Illinois when he was a leading candidate for national commander here at national headquarters in 1971. I was one of eight Vietnam veterans, active Legionnaires, student veterans, he invited to exchange ideas on how the Legion could assist us, the newest generation of veterans. I remember his friendship. I remember the subjects we discussed. I remember he listened to us and we learned from him. The so- called generation gap disappeared. He was our comrade, and we were his. When I was invited to join the national staff, he would say, as he did to all of us, "Button your coat and keep smiling. Oh, and make sure you wear your name badge." Each time he wrote you a note, there in the corner was a smiley face. A positive attitude. That was John. We are Americans. We can do anything we set our mind to do. The Legion can do anything if it gets behind it 100 percent. An American altitude; Midwestern values; American values. That was John. At one National Convention, which seemed to me to be a long convention, a really long convention, I was walking out of the final session, coat unbuttoned, a scowl on my face, looking at the floor, when I heard John's voice say, "Keep smiling." I looked up and there he was with a big grin. Well, I thought to myself, I really have nothing to smile about, but I buttoned my coat, smiled, looked him straight in the eye and said, "Though I have nothing to smile about, I will smile for you," and he shook my hand, and I walked off. You know, I really felt a lot better. That's what comrades do for each other. They care. I was trying to think what John would say to us today if he could. I'm not presumptuous, nor am I a spiritualist, but I believe he would suggest to us the following: mend a quarrel; search out a forgotten friend; dismiss suspicion, and replace it with trust;
18 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 write a love letter; share some treasure; give a soft answer; encourage youth; manifest your loyalty in word and deed; keep a promise; find the time; forego a grudge; forgive an enemy; listen; apologize if you're wrong; try to understand; flout envy; examine your demands of others; think first of someone else; appreciate, be kind, and be gentle; laugh a little bit more; deserve confidence; take up arms against malice; decry complacency; express your gratitude; worship your God; gladden the heart of a child; take pleasure in the beauty and wonder of this earth; speak of your love; speak it again; speak it still again; speak it still once again. In 1922, Walter Donaldson wrote the music to a song universally believed to be the thoughts of a World War I veteran who lost a friend in battle. Gus Kahn wrote the lyrics. Those in this room have heard this song sung many times in posts and at Legion functions. Myself, I'm sorry that we do not hear it more, but it sums up my feelings about missing John Geiger and so many others. I trust it will sum up your feelings as well. With your permission, Mr. Commander, I would like to have Duane key up the song, "My Buddy," and play it for those of us in this room. Thank you. ... At this time the members of the NEC listened to the song "My Buddy."
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN HEDRICK: Mr. Commander, would you please recognize Ken Danilson, chairman of the Finance Commission, for the purpose of presenting Resolution No. 1, which has the approval of the National Internal Affairs Commission, the National Finance Commission, and the Subcommittee on Resolutions. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: The Chair recognizes Ken Danilson from Iowa. FINANCE COMMISSION CHAIRMAN DANILSON: Mr. Commander, I want to thank you for this honor and privilege to read the following resolution to honor my mentor and friend.
Resolution No. 1: The American Legion John H. Geiger Operations Center Origin: Internal Affairs Commission Submitted by: Finance Commission WHEREAS, Past National Commander John H. Geiger of Des Plaines, Illinois, was instrumental in the decision, approval, acquisition of land, building design and construction in 1999 of The American Legion building located on the grounds of historic Fort Benjamin Harrison at 5745 Lee Road, Indianapolis, Indiana; and WHEREAS, Since its dedication, the building has housed the Information Technology, Emblem Sales, Fundraising, and Membership Services Divisions of The American Legion as well as the former Haynes and Partners Communications, Inc., in a 64,000 square foot facility; and WHEREAS, John H. Geiger served as National Commander from 1971 to 1972 and during his tenure in office represented The American Legion before heads of state and among allied military advisors in briefings on the status of the Vietnam War; and WHEREAS, As the National Commander, John H. Geiger testified in Congress on many issues, including in opposition to dismantling or absorbing the Veterans Administration into a national healthcare plan, and in opposition to blanket amnesty for Vietnam War draft dodgers while the war was ongoing, suggesting to Congress that amnesty be granted only on a case-by-case review following the war; and WHEREAS, After leaving the office of National Commander, Past National Commander Geiger continued to serve his fellow veterans and The American Legion with strong leadership presence on the National Executive Committee of The American Legion until his death in 2011; and
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 19 WHEREAS, Past National Commander Geiger, whose time and talents were given daily to the work of our organization, left behind a legacy that will never be forgotten; and WHEREAS, It is entirely fitting that the memory of Past National Commander John H. Geiger be marked prominently and forever in the permanent history of The American Legion; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That, in tribute to Past National Commander John H. Geiger for his commitment to America and his dedication to America's veterans, The American Legion building located at 5745 Lee Road, Indianapolis, Indiana, be rededicated as "The American Legion John H. Geiger Operations Center"; and, be it further RESOLVED, That the official dedication shall be conducted during the National Executive Committee Meeting of The American Legion to be held at Indianapolis, Indiana, October 12-13, 2011; and, be it finally RESOLVED, That $25,000 be approved for appropriate signage, building lettering and the dedication ceremony.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN HEDRICK: Mr. Commander, as I said this has the approval of the Internal Affairs Commission, the National Finance Commission, your Subcommittee on Resolutions, and I so move for approval of this resolution. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and the second. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried. (Applause)
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN HEDRICK: Mr. Commander, would you please recognize Vivienne Geiger Hildebrand, the daughter of Past National Commander Geiger, for the purpose of presenting a portrait to be hung in the John H. Geiger Operations Center. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: The Chair recognizes Vivienne Geiger Hildebrand. (Standing applause) ... At this time National Vice Commander Pytka assumed the Chair.
MS. GEIGER HILDEBRAND: I would also like to introduce my brothers, Carl Geiger and Jack Geiger. (Applause) I am overwhelmed. Thank you so much for your kind words today and your warm welcome. We are also so grateful for the event of a year ago, the dinner in Illinois and the Department of Illinois for arranging it, and all of you who attended. Dad was so moved by that and he appreciated all that was said, and appreciated all the memories that it brought forth. Mostly he was just proud, proud of his contributions to this organization. In these troubling times, the collective memory of a huge and long-lived organization like this is so important for the American dialogue and for the way democracy works. And I want to thank you for what you guys do every day. We've had this portrait of my dad at home, and we would like to return it to Indianapolis as a gift from our family. And I want you to think carefully about where you put it, because he will be looking over your shoulder. (Laughter) NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Vivienne, Jack and Carl, on behalf of the NEC it's my honor to present you with this printed copy of the memorializing resolution for your family. It's a constant reminder of how much your father meant to The American Legion. Your father was a giant in this organization, and was pivotal to the Legion becoming what it is today. His presence will always be felt here and is always being felt with me.
20 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 You've heard the past national commanders, you heard a longtime NEC, the dean of our NEC, Bill Christoffersen, and his good friend, Dick Pedro talk about how John touched their lives. Well, he touched mine. I remember first meeting him in 1990 in Baltimore, Maryland, and with him was past national commander from North Dakota, Honorable H. F. "Sparky" Gierke. And he said, "I heard good things about you young man." And back then I was really young, you know what I mean. (Laughter) So he said, "Keep up the good work." He said, "Many things have been said about you. You might have a future in this organization." I said, "Okay. Thank you, sir." He goes, "Don't call me sir. Call me John. That makes me mad." So, I remember the same thing as the past people up here. So I moved along and there I was. And he always, somehow or another, he found out when my birthday was, and he always sent me a birthday card every year. And in the end he'd put down in parentheses or quotes, "Keep smiling." And he did the same thing on every Christmas card he sent out, with his first wife and then Flo. Same thing every time. He did it right up until the time that he got sick. We went up to Illinois there for the homecoming tribute to him, which was an honor. But he really touched my life. And he came to me, which I find interesting. He sought me out. And I still remember his first words, and he said -- let me leave you with this: He said, "You have on a nice suit." He said, "It really would look better if that top button was buttoned." (Laughter) I've never forgotten that. I always kept that in mind, and at this time on behalf of the organization, I would like to present you with this memorializing resolution that NEC Resolutions Subcommittee Chairman Jerry Hedrick from North Carolina read. And also a copy that I think you would like of the resolution that Ken Danilson, our Finance Commission chairman read on behalf of your father in his honor. Let's give the family a hand. (Standing applause ) ...At this time National Commander Foster resumed the Chair.
NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: At this time we will have the national historian's report given by Jimmy Fratolillo from the Department of Massachusetts.
Oral Report: National Historian James Fratolillo, Massachusetts
Let me make sure my coat is buttoned. Commander Foster, members of the National Executive Committee. I thank you for this opportunity to address you. Since your appointment, Commander Foster, I have corresponded with a number of departments regarding problems and/or suggestions regarding post, district and department history books. One suggestion in particular may warrant more discussion. The caller suggested an alternate format from the traditional books and was asking about having a new category accepting a CD. He was informed that the issue had been raised in previous years, although it never received much support from my fellow National Association of Department Historians of The American Legion members, NADHAL. I told him I would bring it to the table once more, and it will be presented for further discussion at the next meeting of NADHAL, at the Minneapolis Convention. Many years ago as a young Legionnaire, as I was coerced into being a candidate for post historian, I asked one of my mentors, a World War II former Marine, what the role of the historian was and how hard it was to put together a good history book. She informed me that all I had to do was to keep a record of the commander's activities and that of the post. When I asked her how I write good history, she told me in order to write good history, there has to be good history.
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 21 Commander Foster, in one respect you have made it easy to write good history because you and your team have truly made good history, and you continue to make good history. However, on the other hand, trying to keep track of your activities is whole other matter. I had asked Nancy Vaughn to provide me a copy of your itinerary so I could keep track of your activities. From your first meeting, starting with the Joint Hearing of the U.S. Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, back on September 22nd, to your recent sit- down with President Obama, keeping track of your schedule has been no easy task. To the best of my recordkeeping, to date, commander, you have visited five countries, 41 states and 139 cities. This does not include repeat visits, or being shanghaied away from your regular scheduled stops. Upon completion of your tour of duty, I will calculate your number of travel days in an attempt to get a mileage figure as well as other data. To date, my estimate is you have probably been home minimally only 20 days since you took your oath of office in Milwaukee. Mr. Commander, today and tomorrow the respective chairs from our various commissions will be presenting their reports. You will see from the activities in their reports, that "Serving America's Veterans Every Day" is more than a motto while under your leadership, it is indeed a truism. Your capable chairmen will provide unmatched documentation on why The American Legion is not only the world's largest veterans service organization, but in the opinion of the national historian, the best. Commander, I did reference that my early mentor was a Marine, and that Marine was a woman. I would like to provide just a brief history lesson for the NEC on a woman serving in the Marine Corps. In 1918, the Secretary of the Navy allowed women to enroll for clerical duty in the United States Marine Corps. Since then women have answered the call to serve proudly, and their role has evolved and greatly expanded. Officially, the Marine Corps Women's Reserve was established in February of 1943. On June 12, 1948 Congress passed the Women's Armed Services Integration Act and made women a permanent part of the Marine Corps. Now with nearly 20 percent of our servicemembers being women, they have without any doubt demonstrated they are a valued and important entity in our armed services. Once again, I thank you for the opportunity to serve as The American Legion's national historian. Thank you. (Applause)
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: Commander, motion to receive and file the report of the national historian. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion to receive and file the report. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried. At this time we recognize Joe Caouette from New Hampshire, chairman the Americanism Commission.
Oral Report: Americanism Commission Joseph E. Caouette, New Hampshire, Chairman
Mr. Commander, members of the National Executive Committee. Once again I find myself privileged to stand before you to report on the actions of your National Americanism Commission. Copies of my report have been distributed for your review, so I will not read it to you. There are, however, some items I would like to bring to your attention. This morning prior to the convening of this committee, a new musical DVD with Michael Peterson singing the Hollies' hit "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother" was shown. Later this morning you will consider a resolution to amend our contract with Michael
22 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 Peterson to include this DVD. Remember that all profits accumulated from this sale will benefit the coffers of The American Legion Legacy Fund. At this time we would like to show you a new public service announcement for The American Legion Legacy Fund, also narrated by our good friend, Michael Peterson. Mr. Commander and others at head table, if you would be so kind to please relocate so that we begin showing the PSA. ...At this time the National Executive Committee viewed a PSA. (Applause) AMERICANISM CHAIRMAN CAOUETTE: All NECmen received a copy of the PSA this morning to take back to your department. Department adjutants will be receiving theirs in a few days. Also, take advantage of this tool. I think it's going to make an impact, especially at this time in the history of our country, what has transpired in the past week, and we may even be getting some tremendous support that we never expected. It will also be on the legion.org network. Your commission enthusiastically supports the PSA and all of Michael's efforts. We eagerly look forward to the premier of his latest DVD at the upcoming National Convention. Your commission also graciously thanks Michael Peterson for his unceasing and long-time support for The American Legion Legacy Fund. We would also like to report that the National Committee on Education this past weekend selected Michael Peterson as the recipient of the 2011 American Legion National Education Award. The selection of Michael was based on his help promoting The American Legion Legacy Scholarship as its official spokesperson and for his "Tag, You're It" initiative, a social-emotional learning program he has taken to students in the schools. Your commission received a presentation on the development of The American Legion Youth Programs Alumni Association and associated website. The American Legion Youth Program Alumni Association will foster a mutually beneficial relationship between current and former American Legion youth program participants from across the nation and The American Legion at all levels. Your commission recommends that The American Legion Youth Programs Alumni Association website initiative move forward and is enthusiastically anticipating the website debut later this month. Allow me to continue by congratulating some of our recently crowned youth program champions. Three high school orators vied for top national scholarship honors before judges in Indianapolis last month. The National Americanism Commission extends its congratulations to the Department of Missouri and Anish Gururaj of Chesterfield, Missouri. She is this year's National Oratorical Champion. Anisha took home an $18,000 scholarship and is invited to join the youth champion delegation at the National Convention in Minneapolis. Second place National Oratorical honors and a $16,000 scholarship were awarded to Grace Pyo of Powell, Ohio. Third place honors were awarded to Anastasia Kaiser of Orinda, California, which includes a $14,000 scholarship. Congratulations to the Department of Minnesota and Robert Rasmussen of Hutchinson, Minnesota who was selected to receive The American Legion 2011 Eagle Scout of the Year Award. That selection was made Monday. Robert receives a $10,000 scholarship and an invitation to the National Convention this summer. Eagle Scout runners-up and recipients of $2,500 scholarships are: Bradley Garr of Scottsdale, Arizona; John Caldwell of Thousand Oaks, California; and Baylor Dickerson of Ashland, Virginia. We look forward to congratulating our other youth champions who will emerge at their respective programs throughout the following weeks. Your commission is enthusiastically looking forward to the inaugural permanent single site of The American Legion Baseball World Series, August the 12th to the 16th, 2011, hosted by American Legion Post 82 in Shelby, North Carolina. The folks in Shelby have put in a lot of work to what promises to be an outstanding week of competition and
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 23 hospitality. You can check the schedule by going to The American Legion World Series website, www.americanlegionworldseries.com. We certainly hope to see many of you there. I can tell you that the effort leaves no stone unturned. This is a new era for The American Legion Baseball program and we want to grow this successful program. We want to continue to strongly emphasize the importance of maintaining awareness in combating subversive activities, and that all means available be used to inform our membership and the general public about the positions, initiatives and actions of The American Legion as they relate to illegal immigration and subversive activities that threaten to undermine American ideals. The American Legion has been a proud leader in mentoring candidates for United States citizenship dating back to our founding. Legal citizenship and naturalization is an effective means of countering illegal immigration. Your commission recommends that all means available be used to encourage promoting those positions and initiatives that uphold the path to legal immigration and naturalized citizenship, and strongly urges a renewed vigor by Legion posts, districts and departments to collaborate with the Office of U. S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to help newly arriving immigrants become assimilated and seek citizenship. Citizenship is an identity, not simply a benefit. Mr. Commander, on behalf of the commission, I thank you for all your strong support of the programs of our commission this past year. And Mr. Commander, members of the National Executive Committee, that concludes my report.
Report: Americanism Commission May 3-4, 2010 Joseph E. Caouette, New Hampshire, Chairman
The National Americanism Commission met at the Sheraton Hotel City Centre, Indianapolis, Indiana on May 2-3, 2011. There were 48 members present, including members of the Americanism Council, National Committee on Education and Counter- Subversive Activities Committee. We were privileged to have with us Richard Anderson (CT), Chairman, National Executive Committee Liaison to the National Americanism Commission and other distinguished guests representing The American Legion family.
Michael Peterson & The American Legion Legacy Fund
Commission members viewed two new American Legion Legacy Scholarship Public Service Announcements (PSA's) with Michael Peterson as the spokesperson, and a new music DVD of the song "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother" sung by Peterson. The PSA's and the new DVD will further benefit the fund-raising efforts of The American Legion Legacy Fund. Your Commission enthusiastically supports Michael Peterson's efforts and looks forward to the premier of the DVD at the upcoming National Convention. Your commission also graciously thanks Michael Peterson for his unceasing and long-time support of The American Legion Legacy Fund.
American Legion Youth Programs Alumni Association Website
The National Americanism Commission received a presentation on the development of The American Legion Youth Programs Alumni Association and associated website. The American Legion Youth Programs Alumni Association will foster a mutually beneficial relationship between current and former American Legion Youth Program participants and staff from across the nation and The American Legion at all levels. Your Commission recommends that The American Legion Youth Programs Alumni
24 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 Association website initiative move forward and is enthusiastically anticipating the website debut later this month.
Counter-Subversive Activities Committee Robert Bournival, New Hampshire, Chairman Immigration and Naturalization Subcommittee Joseph DeFina, New York, Chairman
The Counter-Subversive Activities Committee and the Immigration and Naturalization Subcommittee met in joint session on May 2, 2011 at the Sheraton City Centre in Indianapolis. The Counter-Subversive Activities Committee strongly emphasizes the importance of maintaining awareness in combating subversive activities, and recommends that all means available be used to inform the membership of The American Legion and the general public about the positions, initiatives and actions of the organization as they relate to illegal immigration and subversive activities that threaten to undermine American ideals. Your Commission continues to urge the establishment of counter- subversive programs at the post, district and department levels. An aware, informed citizenry is one of the greatest deterrents to subversive influences within the United States. The Immigration and Naturalization Subcommittee recognizes that The American Legion has been a proud leader in mentoring candidates for U.S. citizenship dating back to its founding. Legal citizenship and naturalization is an effective means to countering illegal immigration. Your Commission recommends that all means available be used to encourage promoting those positions and initiatives that uphold the path to legal immigration and naturalized citizenship, and strongly urges a renewed vigor by Legion posts, districts and departments to collaborate with the Office of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to help newly arriving immigrants become assimilated and seek citizenship. Citizenship is an identity, not simply a benefit. With involvement of welcoming organizations such as The American Legion, non-citizens are more encouraged to learn about our country and quickly identify with U.S. citizenship.
National Committee on Education Rev. James Akers, Kansas, Chairman
The National Committee on Education (NCOE) met April 30-May 1, 2011, at the Sheraton Hotel City Centre in Indianapolis. At the meeting the committee awarded 23 American Legacy Scholarships totaling $49,975. Recipients are:
Alexander Bauer – Pipestone, Minnesota – $2,275 Mlyssa Benson – Tacoma, Washington – $2,275 Rachel Benson – Tacoma, Washington – $2,275 Meghan Brooks – Norwood, Massachusetts – $2,275 Jacob Centeno – Bonita, California – $2,275 Taylor Curry – Savanna, Georgia – $2,275 Emily Harper – Ft. Leavenworth, Kansas – $2,275 Tyler Harper – Ft. Leavenworth, Kansas – $2,275 Chelsea Healy – Bonita, California – $2,275 Henry Irizarry – Bridgeport, Connecticut – $2,275 Chantel Jeffries – Honolulu, Hawaii – $2,275 Ashley Little – Reform, Alabama – $1,100 Samantha Marzullo – Brunswick, Georgia – $2,275
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 25 Sean McVey – Oak Hill, West Virginia – $2,275 Cecilia Rovinski – Monmouth, Illinois – $2,275 Timothy Stein – Colchester, Illinois – $2,275 Shane Sexton – Fuquay-Varina, Virginia –$1,100 Cody Turner – Colmesneil, Texas – $2,275 Jessica Vinge – Clarksville, Tennessee – $2,275 Rochelle Wert – Reed City, Michigan – $2,275 Eric Daniel Witt – Springfield, Ohio – $2,275 Eva Marie Witt – Springfield, Ohio – $2,275 Cheyenne Yost – Clio, Michigan – $2,275
The NCOE selected Michael Peterson as the recipient of the 2011 American Legion National Education Award based on his help promoting The American Legion Legacy Scholarship as its official spokesperson and his "Tag, You're It", a social-emotional learning program for students. Over $785,000 was raised in 2010 to benefit The American Legion Legacy Scholarship fund. The 2010 Legacy Run surpassed its stated goal by amassing an amazing $634,000 over its five-day run to Milwaukee. Over $5.4 million has been raised for the Legacy Scholarship Fund since established in 2002. The 60th edition of The American Legion's Scholarship and Financial Aid publication entitled "Need A Lift?" is available in a CD-ROM format and also electronically available at www.legion.org/needalift for students, educators and parents to view, search and print information.
Youth Activities Subcommittee James Brouillette, Vermont, Chairman
The Youth Activities Subcommittee met on May 2, 2011, at the Sheraton Hotel City Centre in Indianapolis.
National High School Oratorical Contest
The 74th annual National High School Oratorical Contest Finals were conducted on April 10-11, 2010, in Indianapolis. It featured 53 department winners. The three national finalists are:
First Place Anisha Gururaj of Chesterfield, Missouri $18,000 Second Place Grace Pyo of Powell, Ohio $16,000 Third Place Anastasia Kaiser of Orinda, California $14,000
The following contestants competed in the semi-final of competition and will receive $3,000 scholarships: Joshua Arnold, Seneca, South Carolina; Nathan Chai, Ellicott City, Maryland; Erin Connor, Bridport, Vermont; Adam Nasser, Grapevine, Texas; Adam Saxton, Monticello, Minnesota; and Joseph R. Schartz, Humboldt, South Dakota. Each department winner who competed in the first round contest received a $1,500 scholarship to pursue education beyond high school. The 2011 National High School Oratorical Contest finals were once again broadcast live on the Internet. The webcast featured the three finalists as they vied for the top scholarship honors before judges in Indianapolis. Although viewership numbers of the
26 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 live webcast were down from the previous year, the many positive comments received indicated the live webcast was still a success. The 2012 National Oratorical Contest will be held in Indianapolis, Indiana on April 13-15 at University Place on the campus of Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) in Indianapolis, Indiana. The 42nd annual meeting of Oratorical Department Chairpersons will be held September 23-25, 2011, in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Junior Shooting Sports Program
The 21st Junior Air Rifle National Championship will be held August 2-7, 2011, at the USA Shooting range facility, U.S. Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado. In the preliminary postal rounds there were 1,468 athletes entered in the individual competition and 247 teams entered in the team competition. The Francis M. Redington Sportsmanship is awarded to the athlete competing in The American Legion Junior Air Rifle National Championship who best exemplifies good sportsmanship and fair play. At the 2010 National Championship the award was presented to Shane Russell shooting for the St. Joseph County 4-H Straight Shooters marksmanship unit affiliated by Hice-Shutes American Legion Post 170. At the end of calendar year 2011 there were a total of 1,110 marksmanship clubs and teams affiliated by American Legion posts and Sons of The American Legion squadrons.
American Legion Boys State and American Legion Boys Nation
The 65th anniversary program of American Legion Boys Nation will be held July 22- 30, 2011 on the campus of Marymount University in Arlington, Virginia. Plans are in place again this year to live-stream some select Boys Nation events on the Internet and post video highlights, editorial coverage and still pictures of each day's activities. The 76th annual meeting of American Legion Boys State Directors and Chairmen will be held September 23-25, 2011, in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Boy Scouts of America
Robert Rasmussen of Hutchinson, Minnesota was selected as the 2011 American Legion Eagle Scout of the Year. He will receive a $10,000 scholarship from The American Legion. Runners-up and recipients of $2,500 scholarships are Bradley Garr of Scottsdale, Arizona; John Caldwell of Thousand Oaks, California; and Baylor Dickerson of Ashland, Virginia. A total of 36 applications were considered. At of the end of 2010 there were 437 American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary and Sons of The American Legion members who received the Scouting "Square Knot" award since its inception in 2003. This award is presented in recognition of dedication and support in furthering the Scouting programs of The American Legion. As of February 2011, there were 2,659 Scouting units chartered by American Legion posts, American Legion Auxiliary units, and Sons of The American Legion squadrons serving 69,490 young men and women.
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 27 American Legion Baseball and Recreation Subcommittee Larry Price, South Dakota, Chairman
The Baseball and Recreation Subcommittee met May 1-2, 2011, in Indianapolis, Indiana. This year's American Legion Baseball regional tournaments will be played August 4-8. The inaugural permanent site and 85th ALB World Series will be held August 12-16 in Shelby, North Carolina at Keeter Stadium, Veterans Field, and hosted by Post 82. Your commission is enthusiastically looking forward to the inaugural permanent single site of The American Legion Baseball World Series. Online registration for the 2011 American Legion Baseball season began on January 1st with 3,582 teams currently registered. This successful "one-stop" system allows coaches the convenience of submitting applications and fees online within minutes and to greatly reduce paperwork. "The Dugout," a complimentary e-newsletter for coaches also continues to be very popular. The monthly publication features the latest baseball news and updates, and offers the convenience of delivery directly to coaches' e-mail inboxes – for free! The Dugout began in 2010 with 600 subscribers; currently there are over 5,500. At the meeting of the National Americanism Commission held at the Sheraton Hotel City Centre, Indianapolis, Indiana, May 2-3, 2011, the Americanism Commission considered five resolutions and submitted its recommendations to the National Executive Committee Subcommittee on Resolutions. There is a separate appendage for your consideration and approval.
Addendum A: Resolutions Not Approved
Rejected Resolution No. 193 (TX) (2010 Natl. Conv.): Transportation Costs for all Players in The American Legion Baseball World Series
Addendum B: Date of Events/Meetings
Events/Meetings Dates American Legion Boys Nation – 2011 July 22-30, 2011
Americanism Conference – 2010 September 23-25, 2011 (Includes: Oratorical, Baseball, Boys State Chairmen/Directors and Department Chaplains Conferences)
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: Commander, motion to receive and file the report of the Americanism Committee, with the exception of two resolutions and two addenda. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion to receive and file the report. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Resolution No. 37: Junior Law Cadet Program Origin: Americanism Commission Submitted by: Americanism Commission WHEREAS, Resolution 59, titled "Urging the National American Legion to Establish a National Junior Law Cadet 'Law & Order' Program," adopted at the 1985 National Convention directed that The American Legion conduct a feasibility study of
28 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 such a program in order to stimulate respect for law enforcement and patriotic and responsible citizenship; and WHEREAS, Resolution 27, titled "Junior Law Cadet 'Law & Order' Program," adopted at the 1987 Fall Meeting of the National Executive Committee proposed that The American Legion adopt the concept of this program as an annual Americanism program and each department be urged in implementing such a Junior Law Cadet "Law & Order" program; and WHEREAS, Resolution 13, titled "Proponency for the Junior Law Cadet 'Law and Order' Program," adopted at the 1990 Fall Meeting of the National Executive Committee assigned proponency for the Junior Law Cadet "Law and Order" Program to the Law and Order Committee of the National Security Commission; and WHEREAS, Resolution 52, titled "Department Junior Law Cadet Programs," adopted at the 2005 National Convention in Honolulu, Hawaii, urged departments to develop Junior Law Cadet programs and that a National program be eventually established; and WHEREAS, American Legion departments have been encouraged to sponsor Junior Law Cadet programs in cooperation with their State Police or Highway Patrol, of which the name of department programs have varied to include such terms as the Student Trooper Program, Trooper Week Program, Law Enforcement Training, etc.; and WHEREAS, The program may be made available to high school students who have completed their junior year and are in good academic standing, and possess good moral character and the desire to learn more about the law enforcement profession; and WHEREAS, Program content may vary from state to state however, most programs include classroom law enforcement training, hands-on police training, and physical fitness training; and WHEREAS, The National Americanism Commission has the background and experience in the conduct and administration of various youth programs to include American Legion Boys Nation, Scouting, Junior Shooting Sports, American Legion Baseball, and the Oratorical Contest; and WHEREAS, This resolution has the concurrence of the National Security Commission; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That the proponency and administration of the Junior Law Cadet Program be transferred from the National Security Commission to the National Americanism Commission; and, be it finally RESOLVED, That the National Americanism Commission will provide updates to the Law and Order Committee of the National Security Commission upon request. RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBER DEZURIK: Resolution 37 has the approval of the Americanism Commission and your Subcommittee on Resolutions, and I move for its adoption. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and the second to adopt resolution 37. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Resolution No. 38: Proper Display, Care and Respect of the American Flag Origin: Res. No. 239 (MO) 2010 Natl. Conv. Submitted by: Americanism Commission WHEREAS, The proper display of the United States flag is a cornerstone of flag respect and etiquette; and WHEREAS, The American Legion is recognized as one of the country's foremost authorities on the proper display of the United States flag; and
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 29 WHEREAS, Title 4, Chapter 1, Section 8(k), United States Code states: "The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning"; and WHEREAS, Displaying a frayed, tattered, ripped, torn, faded, or otherwise unserviceable United States flag is considered a breach of flag etiquette; and WHEREAS, A Dignified Disposal of Unserviceable Flags Ceremony is included in The Officer's Guide and Manual of Ceremonies; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That The American Legion at all levels encourage its membership, the general public, and all local, state and federal government agencies to display United States flags that are fitting emblems for display; and, be it finally RESOLVED, That American Legion Posts are encouraged to promote and conduct a Dignified Disposal of Unserviceable Flags Ceremony as a part of their community service efforts.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBER DEZURIK: Resolution 38 has the approval of the Americanism Commission and your Subcommittee on Resolutions, and I move for its adoption. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and the second to adopt resolution 38. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried. RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBER DEZURIK: Mr. Commander, attached to the report is Addendum A and B. I move the action of the Americanism Commission become the action of the National Executive Committee. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and the second to adopt the addenda. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried. Thank you, Chairman Joe for your fine work. At this time the Chair recognizes Membership and Post Activities Committee chairman from Wisconsin, Denise Rohan.
Oral Report: Membership and Post Activities Commission Denise H. Rohan, Wisconsin, Chairman
Good morning Commander Foster and members of the National Executive Committee. I'm here today to report on the DMS program; online renewals for 2012, and the ongoing membership recruiting effort. You have a copy of the Membership and Post Activities Committee report in front of you. I would like to highlight some of the items on the report. The DMS program for 2011 will be completed in June. Our goal was 210,000. At this point we're at 213,000. Our income so far is in excess of 5.5 million. Our 2010 DMS renewals is a little over 50 percent. The 2012 DMS numbers were approved at the same as last year, 210,000. The planning for the mail-outs will begin in June. On May 4th, the membership is now at 2,026,034. That's this morning's numbers. 92.42 percent. The fifth and final renewal notices were mailed on Monday. As we are right now, the current membership is 2.27 million. This will put us 40,000 members short of our end of year goal, unless things change drastically. As an incentive, yesterday, 78,000 names of non-renewal DMS were released to the departments. These members are also available through mylegion.org for those posts that are signed up for that. When you go home, please make sure your departments are getting use out of those 78,000 names that were released. That will be the dramatic change that we need to turn our numbers around.
30 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 Beginning on July 1, 2011, members will have the opportunity to renew their dues online through www.legion.org. It's an exciting program. There are some administrative issues that need to be taken care of, but we're certain that all of the departments will be able to handle that through the help of our national staff. Training videos were sent out to the department adjutants and to all of you as well. There are copies of online renewal fliers and all kinds of advertising things attached to our report. Continuous education will be an important step of this, and the national staff is always ready to help wherever needed. I would like to thank the national commander and National Executive Committee for allowing me time to make this report. And I would also like to thank our parent commission, Internal Affairs, for their guidance and leadership. Thank you.
Report: Membership and Post Activities Committee Denise H. Rohan, Wisconsin, Chairman
This report is to provide you an update on the DMS program, the 2011 Membership program and the 2012 Online Renewal program. The DMS program for the 2011 membership year will be completed at the end of June. A goal of 210,000 new members was established at the 2010 Washington Conference. That goal has been exceeded and over 213,000 new members have been acquired through DMS. Membership income from the program is now in excess of $5.5 million dollars. The 2012 DMS budget was approved during the 2011 Washington Conference with a goal of 210,000 new members. The planning process is under way for DMS mailings to begin in June 2011. Additional mailings are planned for September and January. As of May 3, the traditional membership was 2,023,631 or 92% of the 2011 traditional goal of 2,192,211. Only traditional renewals and new starts are part of the current membership figure. The fifth and final renewal was sent out on May 2, 2011. When you add in the DMS the current total membership is 2.27 million. The final 2010 membership was 2,405,207 and if nothing changes drastically from previous years, we can expect to fall close to 40,000 members short of the 2010 total. As an incentive, Departments will be offered approximately 78,000 non-renewed 2011 DMS members. Those names were made available on May 3, 2011. Hopefully their efforts will allow them to capture a majority of these members who, for whatever reason, have not yet renewed. If they can, this certainly will have an impact on the final total. Beginning July 1, 2011, all American Legion members will be able to renew their 2012 membership on-line through www.legion.org. Members can renew using their credit card and at the same time print a temporary card. Members will be instructed to mail or take their receipt, which will be printed with the temporary card, to their post. They will be informed of this renewal option through the renewal notice as well as information that has and will be shared with Departments and Post leadership. Included with this report is an Online Renewal flyer, a copy of the communication to Departments with instructional material and the Online Renewal Training/Education efforts timetable. The Online Renewal flyer will be included with every post's cards and rosters as well. Three informational videos were sent to Department Adjutants, Past National Commanders and the National Executive Committee. The videos were a step-by-step tutorial on how the online renewal process will work. Continuous education of this new online renewal process is critical and National staff is ready to assist in any way possible.
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 31
32 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: Commander, motion to receive and file the report of the Membership and Post Activities Committee. There are no addendum and no resolutions. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion to receive and file the Membership and Post Activities Committee report. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried. Thank you, Denise. The Chair recognizes the Finance Commission chairman from Iowa, Ken Danilson.
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 33 Oral Report: Finance Commission Kenneth D. Danilson, Iowa, Chairman
Thank you. Mr. Commander, members of the National Executive Committee and guests. This is a report of the Finance Commission, May 4, 2011. The Finance Commission held its meetings on Monday and Tuesday, May 2-3, 2011. All commission members were present, with the exception of Gaither Keener of North Carolina who was excused. Also were present are those noted in my written report before you. Many reports were received and also noted in the written report. The National Executive Committee at its meeting of October 13-14, 2010, approved a 2011 budget based on revenues of $79,046,999, expenditures of $76,820,149, and non-operating expense of $1,090,000 for an operating surplus of $1,136,841. This budget was based on a projected 2011 membership of 2.4 million members. Year-to-date, January through March, reflects a deficit of $469,573 compared to a budgeted deficit of $355,121, for a negative variance of $114,451. There are several indications that we will perform at expectation, if not better by year's end. Insurance sales for USAA are performing better than expected, so much so that royalties have exceeded the $1,000,000 advance received in December. Additionally, the Magazine Division is reporting that ad sales already booked for future issues are better than expected. The Finance Commission approved internal adjustments of $166,460 in write-offs on uncollectible accounts. The Finance Commission reviewed the performance of the following financial institutions with regard to The American Legion's trust accounts on deposit: Fifth Third Bank, First National Bank of Omaha, and Hoosier Trust Company. The Finance Commission approved an increase in the mileage rate from 48.5 cents to 51 cents per mile, effective July 1, 2011. The Finance Commission approved the 2010 audit as presented by Crowe Horwarth LLP. The Finance Commission approved a motion that The American Legion Charities, a 501(c)(3) trust be available to departments and posts to receive donations where the donor requires a 501(c)(3) recipient. Denise Rohan, Membership and Post Activities chairman reported that the 2011 DMS goal has been achieved, and other information you have already heard. The Americanism Commission reported on progress made for the 2011 American Legion Baseball World Series in Shelby, North Carolina. Wayne Jensen, Wisconsin Convention Corporation president reported that the 2010 National Convention netted a profit of $90,874. This will be divided equally between the convention corporation and national headquarters. A list of approved resolutions will follow my report. Respectfully submitted, Kenneth D. Danilson, Finance Commission Chairman. Thank you.
Report: Finance Commission May 4, 2011 Kenneth D. Danilson, Iowa, Chairman
The Finance Commission held its meeting on Monday and Tuesday, May 2-3, 2011. All commission members were present with the exception of Gaither Keener of North Carolina, who was excused. Also present were: Daniel S. Wheeler, National Adjutant; George A. Buskirk, Jr., National Treasurer; Jeffrey O. Brown, Fort Harrison Executive Director; Peter Gaytan,
34 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 Washington Office Executive Director; Marty Justis, Indianapolis Office Executive Director; Shawn Long, Finance Director; and Richard A. Heigert, Member, NEC Finance Liaison Committee. Several guests joined us throughout the course of the meeting. Reports were received from the National Adjutant; National Treasurer; Finance Director; Fundraising Division; Crowe Horwath LLP; National Judge Advocate; Fifth Third Bank, Trustee, The American Legion Retirement Trust – Stocks; S. A. Van Dyk Insurance Company; the three Headquarters buildings' executive directors; First National Bank of Omaha, Trustee, The American Legion Retirement Trust - Bonds; American Legion Insurance Committee; Hoosier Trust Company, Trustee, The American Legion/Samsung Scholarship Trust, The American Legion September 11 Memorial Scholarship Fund and The American Legion PUFL Trust - Bonds; the Internal Affairs Commission and M&PA Committee, the Americanism Commission, The Convention Corporation of Wisconsin, and the National Convention Commission. The National Executive Committee, at its meeting of October 13-14, 2010, approved a 2011 budget based on revenues of $79,046,990, expenditures of $76,820,149 and non- operating expenses of $1,090,000 for an operating surplus of $1,136,841. This budget was based on a 2011 membership of 2,400,000. Year-to-date (January through March) reflects a deficit of $469,573 compared to a budgeted deficit of $355,121, for a negative variance of $114,451. There are several indications that we should perform at expectation, if not a little better, by year's end. Insurance sales for USAA are performing better than expected, so much so that royalties have exceeded the $1,000,000 advance received in December. Additionally, the magazine division is reporting that ad sales already booked for future issues are better than expected. The Finance Commission approved internal adjustments of $166,460 in write-offs and uncollectible accounts. The Finance Commission reviewed the performance of the following financial institutions with regard to The American Legion's trust accounts on deposit: Fifth Third Bank, First National Bank of Omaha, and Hoosier Trust Company. The Finance Commission approved an increase in the mileage rate from .485 cents to 51 cents per mile, effective July 1, 2011. The Finance Commission approved the 2010 audit as presented by Crowe Horwath LLP. The Finance Commission approved a motion that The American Legion Charities, a 501(c)(3) trust, be available to Departments and Posts to receive donations where the donor requires a 501(c)(3) recipient. Denise H. Rohan (WI), Membership & Post Activities Chairman, reported that the 2011 DMS goal has been exceeded. As an incentive, Departments received yesterday approximately 78,000 non-renewed 2011 DMS members two months ahead of schedule. Beginning July 1, 2011, all American Legion members will be able to renew their 2012 membership online through www.legion.org. Three information videos that give step-by- step information on how the process works have been emailed to the National Executive Committee, Past National Commanders and Department Adjutants. The Americanism Commission reported on progress made for the 2011 American Legion Baseball World Series in Shelby, North Carolina. Wayne Jensen, Wisconsin Convention Corporation President, reported that the 2010 National Convention netted a profit of $90,874.57. This will be divided equally between the Convention Corporation and National Headquarters. A list of approved resolutions follows this report.
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 35 Resolutions
The Finance Commission recommends the NEC approve and adopt 14 resolutions listed below. Copies of the resolutions accompany this report. Resolution No. 1: The American Legion John H. Geiger Operations Center. In tribute to Past National Commander John H. Geiger, for his commitment to America and his dedication to America's veterans, The American Legion building located at 5745 Lee Road, Indianapolis, will be rededicated as "The American Legion John H. Geiger Operations Center." Official dedication shall be conducted during the October 12-13, 2011, NEC meeting. Resolution No. 2: Award the 2018 National Convention to the City of Minneapolis, Minnesota. The American Legion shall waive the established process for the selection of a National Convention city in order to appropriately commemorate the "Centennial of The American Legion." In doing so, the 2018 National Convention of The American Legion shall be awarded to the City of Minneapolis, Minnesota, August 24 – 30, 2018, provided that the Department of Minnesota informs the NEC of the Department's concurrence at the October 2011 regular meeting. Resolution No. 3: Award the 2019 National Convention to the City of Indianapolis, Indiana. The American Legion shall waive the established process for the selection of a National Convention city in order to appropriately commemorate the "Centennial of The American Legion" in the city of its National Headquarters. In doing so, the 2019 National Convention of The American Legion shall be awarded to the City of Indianapolis, Indiana, August 23 - 29, 2019, provided that the Department of Indiana informs the NEC of the Department's concurrence at the October 2011 regular meeting. Resolution No. 4: National Convention Registration Fee. The registration fee for delegates, alternates and guests attending the National Convention who are 18 years or older will be increased by $10 effective with the 2012 National Convention. This additional $10 will be added to the current fee of $15 for a total registration fee of $25. $17 of this fee will be for the host National Convention Corporation, and $8 will be for The American Legion National Headquarters Convention Stabilization Fund. Resolution No. 5: Amending Guidelines for the National Convention Stabilization Fund. Due to the increase in the National Convention registration fee, updates will be made to the Guidelines for the National Convention Stabilization Fund to be effective with the 2012 National Convention. Any withdrawal from the National Convention Stabilization Fund must be recommended by the National Convention Commission and the Finance Commission, with final approval by the NEC in accordance with the "Guidelines for the National Convention Stabilization Fund" (said guidelines attached to the resolution). Resolution No. 6: Armed Services Academy Awards Update. The Armed Services Academy Awards will be set for the United States Naval Academy, United States Air Force Academy, United States Coast Guard Academy and the United States Merchant Marine Academy at an amount not to exceed $500, based on the individual Academy's needs. The United States Military Academy at West Point shall stay capped at $250, per United States Military Academy Regulation 672-2. The Trophies, Awards and Ceremonials committee will review this award on a periodic basis to ensure its amount is kept current with the rising costs and the operating/award procedures of the respective Armed Services academies. Resolution No. 7: Authorization for The American Legion and Legion Racing to Enter Into an Agreement with US Coin Boards, LLC, to Raise Funds for the Legion Racing Freedom Car. The agreement under authority of Resolution 42, NEC May 8, 1985, with US Coin Boards, LLC, and Team Johnson Motorsports will be extended until March 31, 2012. A licensing agreement must be obtained from national Emblem Sales
36 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 that US Coin Boards, LLC may only sell products with The American Legion Emblem to raise funds for the Legion Racing Freedom Car where authorized by federal and state gaming laws. Resolution No. 8: 2011 American Legion Boys Nation Contract. The American Legion will enter into a contract with Marymount University for the 2011 American Legion Boys Nation program. Resolution No. 9: Authority to Amend Agreement with Michael Peterson. The contract agreement will now reflect promotion of Michael Peterson's music products "It's Who We Are" DVD, "You Could Hear a Pin Drop" CD and "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother" DVD. In return, Michael Peterson will donate 50 percent of the net profit from sales of each of those music products to The American Legion, which will be designated for The American Legion Legacy Scholarship Fund. The American Legion may proceed with any future amended contract agreements for additional music products that Michael Peterson may offer to benefit The American Legion Legacy Scholarship Fund. Resolution No. 10: Rescinding of Res. No. 17, NEC October 2009 – Travel Policy for Call-Ins. The above resolution was superseded by Resolution 1, NEC October 13-14, 2010. Resolution No. 11: Establishment of The American Legion Amateur Radio Club. The American Legion Amateur Radio Club will be established to facilitate public communication with our nation's federally licensed amateur radio operators who are veterans. Membership in The American Legion Amateur Radio Club will be open to all federally licensed amateur radio operators who are members of the Legion, Auxiliary and SAL. Posts are asked to encourage member participation. An amount not to exceed $1,000 is authorized to facilitate establishment of The American Legion Amateur Radio Club. Resolution No. 12: Label the Four Pillars on the National Headquarters Building in Indianapolis. The American Legion will enter into an agreement with the state of Indiana and an authorized state of Indiana vendor for engraving the words VETERANS, DEFENSE, AMERICANISM and YOUTH on the four columns on the east and west main entrances to the National Headquarters building located at 700 N. Pennsylvania St., Indianapolis, for an amount not to exceed $10,000. Resolution No. 13: Rescission of Outdated Resolutions. 122 NEC and National Convention resolutions pertaining to The American Legion Magazine Commission will be rescinded because they have either been accomplished, have become obsolete, were superseded by later resolutions, are in conflict with later resolutions, have been duplicated by later resolutions, have no value because of later changes in programs, and for other reasons. Resolution No. 14: Rescission of Outdated Resolutions. 127 NEC and National Convention resolutions pertaining to The American Legion Insurance Committee will be rescinded because they have either been accomplished, have become obsolete, were superseded by later resolutions, are in conflict with later resolutions, have been duplicated by later resolutions, have no value because of later changes in programs, and for other reasons.
Report: Emblem Committee May 4, 2011 Alvan T. Fuller, Massachusetts, Chairman
Mr. Commander and members of the Executive Committee: Your National Emblem Committee met at 9:00 a.m., in regularly called sessions in Indianapolis, Indiana, May 2-3, 2011. The following members were present:
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 37 Alvan T. Fuller (Massachusetts), Chairman Mark A. Foxworthy (California), National Commander's Representative Ronald W. Wood (Wyoming), Consultant Gary L. Haverman (Iowa) Lloyd R. Henderson (Illinois) William G. Hines (Pennsylvania) Kenneth W. Knight (Virginia) N.W. Patterson (South Carolina) Lance D. Vanderhoof (Utah) Rene C. Vanmulem (New York) Richard B. Keith (Indiana), Staff Director
Gross revenues for 2010 amounted to $11,136,911 Net profit after distribution was $1,568,541. The entire financial picture was reviewed in connection with the March 31, 2011 Responsibility Report and found favorable under present economic conditions. The inventory as of March 31, 2011 was $2,491,750 as compared with $2,464,855 as of March 31, 2010. The Committee reviewed marketing and operations reports of American Legion Emblem Sales and was most pleased.
Addendum A: Resolutions Not Approved
Rejected Resolution No. 203 (NJ) (2010 Nat'l. Conv.): Recognition of the Official Designer of the POW-MIA Flag
Report: Insurance Committee Kenneth L. Powell, Sr., Florida, Chairman May 2, 2011 (Submitted through the National Finance Commission)
The American Legion Insurance Committee met in regular session in Indianapolis, Indiana in the Illinois Room of the Sheraton Hotel on Monday, May 2, 2011 and heard updates from staff on the status of the life insurance plans.
GE Financial Assurance (Union Fidelity-Whole Life) GE Financial Assurance reports the total royalty paid to The American Legion in the first quarter of 2011 is $210,595.24.
Gallagher Benefit Services & Broker Relationship Although the contractual relationship with Gallagher Benefit Services was terminated in 2009, The American Legion continues to receive revenue on previously placed business. Revenue for the first quarter is $14,227.77.
Mutual of Omaha Last year, The American Legion began our first direct relationship with a carrier, Mutual of Omaha. The royalty paid to the Legion for 2010 was $185,439.00. Mutual of Omaha is committed to the continued marketing of their successful senior whole life product. The first mailing of 2011 went out the week of April 24 and The American Legion received $92,505.00. The next mailing will occur in the fourth quarter.
United Services Automobile Association (USAA)
38 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 In November 2010, The American Legion launched a relationship with USAA. In December, the Legion received their first guaranteed payment of $1,000,000. The Legion was initially projected to exceed the million dollar mark in late second or early third quarter of 2011. As of March 31, The American Legion has earned $1,125,810.00. In January, the Legion received $400,000.00 from USAA as the guarantee for the credit card program. As of the end of March, USAA has received over 17,000 credit card applications, issued 7,606 cards and activated 4,456 credit card accounts. This has exceeded USAA's credit card sales expectations by 148 percent. USAA is very pleased and as result has increased their marketing dollars to Legion assets. In August or September the Legion Magazine will feature a "second" USAA cover wrap. The wrap will focus on testimonials from blue-cap Legionnaires citing the savings they've realized from switching to USAA. In addition, USAA is in discussions with the Convention staff to finalize their commitment to the National Convention. Lastly, your committee continues to work with USAA representatives to develop a commercial solution for both posts and departments. This concludes our report. RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN HEDRICK: Mr. Commander, I move the Finance Commission Report be approved, with the exception of 13 resolutions and one addendum. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion to approve the Finance Commission report. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Resolution No. 2: Award the 2018 National Convention to the City of Minneapolis, Minnesota Origin: National Convention Commission Submitted by: National Finance Commission WHEREAS, Emerging from the battlefields of World War One, The American Legion was fashioned by the foresight and experience of military veterans and forged by the determination of its membership in the early years to become the largest veterans service organization in the nation today; and WHEREAS, The "Father of The American Legion," Lieutenant Colonel Theodore Roosevelt, Jr., and a small cadre of his contemporaries caucused at Paris, France, in March, 1919, to organize veterans in the United States and from which caucus came a temporary constitution and the name, "The American Legion"; and WHEREAS, In May, 1919, a second organizing caucus was held at St. Louis, Missouri, to further The American Legion plans to benefit veterans and their families through relief, employment, and Americanism programs; and WHEREAS, On November 10-12, 1919, the first National Convention of The American Legion was held at Minneapolis, Minnesota, and from which came a permanent constitution, a slate of elected officers to head the organization, and the principles that would define its work; and WHEREAS, The first Minneapolis Convention set firm the base on which the organization yet stands–its principles–the "Four Pillars" of The American Legion, which are: the perpetuation of a one-hundred percent Americanism, the care and protection of the widow and the orphan, the security of our nation, and the rehabilitation of the disabled veteran; and WHEREAS, It is historically significant and desirable to mark the 100th National Convention, which will usher in the celebration of the 100th Anniversary of The American Legion in 2019, by convening the 2018 National Convention in the city first chosen to host such an auspicious gathering; and WHEREAS, This resolution has the concurrence of The American Legion Department of Minnesota; now, therefore, be it
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 39 RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4 - 5, 2011, That The American Legion shall waive the established process for the selection of a National Convention city in order to properly commemorate the "Centennial Convention of The American Legion"; and, be it further RESOLVED, That to benchmark its first 100 conventions, the 2018 National Convention of The American Legion shall be awarded to the City of Minneapolis, Minnesota, August 24-30, 2018, provided that the Department of Minnesota informs the National Executive Committee of the Department's concurrence at the October 2011 regular meeting; and, be it finally RESOLVED, That ceremonies appropriate to the occasion of the 100th National Convention shall mark the beginning of a 15-month observance leading to the 100th Anniversary of The American Legion, which shall culminate on Veterans Day, 2019.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: This has the approval of your National Convention Commission, your National Finance Commission, and your Subcommittee on Resolutions, therefore, I move for its adoption. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion to approve resolution number 2. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Resolution No. 3: Award the 2019 National Convention to the City of Indianapolis, Indiana Origin: National Convention Commission Submitted by: National Finance Commission WHEREAS, It is with profound recognition of and humble gratitude toward those whose names populate the list of Founders of The American Legion; and WHEREAS, These men, dedicated as they were in service to our nation and as visionary as they may have been with expectations for the future, could not have imagined their pledge to "God and Country" would endure, indeed, be nurtured and flourish for 100 years; and WHEREAS, The archives of The American Legion reveal that by action of the first National Convention the National Headquarters was located at Indianapolis, Indiana in late 1919; and WHEREAS, It is historically significant and desirable to mark the 100th Anniversary of the Founding of The American Legion by convening the 2019 National Convention in the city that has been home to its National Headquarters since 1919; and WHEREAS, This resolution has the concurrence of The American Legion Department of Indiana; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4 - 5, 2011, That The American Legion shall waive the established process for the selection of a National Convention city in order to appropriately commemorate the "Centennial of The American Legion" in the city of its National Headquarters; and, be it finally RESOLVED, That the 2019 National Convention of The American Legion shall be awarded to the City of Indianapolis, Indiana, August 23 - 29, 2019 provided that the Department of Indiana informs the National Executive Committee of the Department's concurrence at the October 2011 regular meeting.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: This has the approval of the National Convention Commission, the National Finance Commission and your Subcommittee on Resolutions, therefore, I move for its adoption. …Second.
40 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and second to approve resolution number 3. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Resolution No. 4: National Convention Registration Fee Origin: National Convention Commission Submitted by: National Finance Commission WHEREAS, The National Convention Commission has continued to monitor National Convention expenses in an effort to effectively manage and control these expenses; and WHEREAS, The expenses for audio visual, sound, lighting, parade and communications services, rental expenses for special National Convention venues, specific convention center expenses and especially our ground shuttle transportation services continue to increase each year; and WHEREAS, The latest increase, from $10.00 (ten dollars) to $15.00 (fifteen dollars) in National Convention registration fees became effective at the 1992 National Convention; and WHEREAS, The National Convention Commission recommends a $10.00 (ten dollar) increase in the registration fee for all delegates, alternates and guests attending the National Convention who are 18 years old or older; and WHEREAS, This recommended registration fee increase has been reviewed by the National Finance Commission and they concur with this recommendation; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4–5, 2011, That the registration fee for delegates, alternates and guests attending the National Convention who are 18 years old or older be increased by $10.00 (ten dollars), effective with the 2012 National Convention; and, be it finally RESOLVED, That said increase in the National Convention registration fee be added to the current fee of $15.00 (fifteen dollars) for a total registration fee of $25.00 (twenty-five dollars) and set aside as follows; $17.00 (seventeen dollars) for the host National Convention Corporation and $8.00 (eight dollars) for The American Legion National Headquarters Convention Stabilization Fund.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: This has the approval of the National Convention Commission, the National Finance Commission and your Subcommittee on Resolutions, therefore, I move for its adoption. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and second to approve resolution number 4. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Resolution No. 5: Amending Guidelines for the National Convention Stabilization Fund Origin: National Convention Commission Submitted by: National Finance Commission WHEREAS, Resolution Number 7 of October 1991 established the Convention Stabilization Fund; and WHEREAS, Resolution Number 7 was amended with Resolution Number 28, May 1995, Resolution Number 33, May 1998 and Resolution Number 12, October 2004; and WHEREAS, Resolution Number 4 of May 2011 increased the National Convention registration fee from $15.00 (fifteen dollars) to $25.00 (twenty-five dollars) effective with the 2012 National Convention; and WHEREAS, The National Convention Commission desires to update the current "Guidelines for the National Convention Stabilization Fund"; and
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 41 WHEREAS, The National Convention Commission's updates to said fund have been reviewed by the National Finance Commission and they concur with the recommended updates; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4 – 5, 2011, That it adopts the recommended updates to the Guidelines for the National Convention Stabilization Fund effective with the 2012 National Convention of The American Legion; and, be it finally RESOLVED, That any withdrawal from the National Convention Stabilization Fund must be recommended by the National Convention Commission and the National Finance Commission, with final approval by the National Executive Committee in accordance with the "Guidelines for the National Convention Stabilization Fund" attached hereto.
Guidelines for the National Convention Stabilization Fund
Receipts to the National Convention Stabilization Fund shall be from a portion of the National Convention registration for each National Convention. Effective with the 94th National Convention to be held in Indianapolis, Indiana August 24 – 30, 2012 the following dollar amounts will be set aside from each registration or packet sold to the American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of the American Legion. 1. $8.00 (eight dollars) from each American Legion delegate, alternate, guest and on-site registration. $17.00 (seventeen dollars) from each American Legion delegate, alternate, guest and on-site registration will be sent to the host National Convention Corporation. 2. $8.00 (eight dollars) from each packet sold to the American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of the American Legion for each of their delegates and alternates to the National Convention. The price of each packet sold to the American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of the American Legion will be $21.00 (twenty one dollars). The host National Convention Corporation will receive $13.00 (thirteen dollars) for each packet sold to the American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of The American Legion. The aforementioned registration portions shall be collected by the National Treasurer for each respective National Convention. Prior to the beginning of the National Convention, the National Treasurer shall collect $21.00 (twenty one dollars) from the American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of the American Legion for each packet sold to delegates and alternates for their respective organization. The National Treasurer will then issue a check to the host National Convention Corporation for the total number of packets sold to the American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of the American Legion times $13.00 (thirteen dollars). At the conclusion of the National Convention, the National Treasurer shall issue a check to the host National Convention Corporation for the total number of American Legion delegates, alternates, guests and on-site registrations times $17.00 (seventeen dollars). The aforementioned funds, when received by the National Treasurer, shall be deposited to a separate account to be identified as the "National Convention Stabilization Fund." This fund will be administered by the National Finance Commission and shall be invested at their discretion. Accrued interest from the fund shall be credited to the fund. A yearly report of fund activities shall be made by the National Finance Commission to the National Executive Committee. Any and all amounts to be withdrawn from the fund shall be presented to the National Convention Commission during the National Spring Meetings immediately
42 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 subsequent to the National Convention for which funds have been requested. If the National Convention Commission recommends approval, the recommendation will be forwarded to the National Finance Commission for their consideration. Should the requested withdrawal receive favorable consideration from the National Finance Commission, the request for withdrawal of funds will be forwarded to the National Executive Committee for final approval via the appropriate resolution. The National Convention Commission shall only consider National Convention expenses of the following nature when recommending withdrawals from the National Convention Stabilization Fund: 1. Shuttle bus transportation services at the National Convention. 2. Non-routine special National Convention venue rental costs and/or expenditures for same. 3. Extraordinary expenses, which could cause the host National Convention Corporation to end up with a considerable deficit for said National Convention. 4. Extraordinary expenditures, which would not ordinarily be allocated a routine National Convention expenses.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: This has the approval of the National Convention Commission, the National Finance Commission, and your Subcommittee on Resolutions, therefore, I move for its adoption. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You have heard the motion and a second to recommend adoption of resolution number 5. Any discussion? NEC MEMBER CHRISTOFFERSEN (UT): Mr. Commander. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: The Chair recognizes Bill Christoffersen. NEC MEMBER CHRISTOFFERSEN: I don't know if it's included somewhere else, but about what about the $2.00 a room night for each hotel room? NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Yield to the chairman. FINANCE COMMISSION CHAIRMAN DANILSON: I think it's a different subject but I'll call on Mike from the Convention Commission to answer it. I think it's a different subject, but we'll answer it here anyway. NEC MEMBER CHRISTOFFERSEN: Well, I wasn't sure. I just didn't want to overlook look it. CONVENTION COMMISSION CHAIRMAN WALTON: It is an entirely different subject. It has nothing to do with the registration fee at all. That's totally different, 100 percent. It's a negotiated thing between the cities and the hotel. It has nothing to do with this resolution at all. Does that answer your question? NEC MEMBER CHRISTOFFERSEN: Yes. Thank you. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Any further discussions? All in favor of passing resolution number 5. Opposed? Carried.
Resolution No. 6: Armed Services Academy Awards Update Origin: Trophies, Awards and Ceremonials Committee Submitted by: Finance Commission WHEREAS, The American Legion has since 1935 sponsored an annual award for one of the graduating cadets/midshipmen from the United States Military Academy at West Point, United States Naval Academy, United States Air Force Academy, United States Coast Guard Academy and the United States Merchant Marine Academy; and WHEREAS, The Services Academy Awards are among our long-standing awards and reinforce our commitment as an organization to the future of our country and its future leaders; and
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 43 WHEREAS, In 1998, the award was increased to $400.00 for the United States Naval Academy, United States Air Force Academy, United States Coast Guard Academy and the United States Merchant Marine Academy with the United States Military Academy at West Point remaining at $250.00 per their regulation; and WHEREAS, These amounts have been firm since 1998, while the costs for said awards have risen with inflation; and WHEREAS, The Trophies, Awards and Ceremonials Committee believes this practice should be continued for many years to come; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That the Armed Services Academy Awards be set for the United States Naval Academy, United States Air Force Academy, United States Coast Guard Academy and the United States Merchant Marine Academy at an amount not to exceed $500, based on the individual Academies needs; and, be it further RESOLVED, That the United States Military Academy at West Point stay capped at $250.00, per United States Military Academy Regulation 672-2; and, be it finally RESOLVED, That the Trophies, Awards and Ceremonials Committee review this award on a periodic basis to ensure the award amount is kept current with rising costs and with the operating/award procedures of the respective Armed Services Academies.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: This has the approval of your Trophies, Awards and Ceremonials Committee, your Internal Affairs Commission, your Finance Commission, your Subcommittee on Resolutions, therefore, I move to for its adoption. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and second to approve resolution number 6. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Resolution No. 7: Authorization for The American Legion and Legion Racing to Enter Into An Agreement with US Coin Boards, LLC, to Raise Funds for the Legion Racing Freedom Car Origin: Internal Affairs Commission Submitted by: Finance Commission WHEREAS, Resolution 42, NEC, May 8, 1985, authorized the Internal Affairs Commission to research, develop, test and make recommendations for new revenue enhancement marketing programs; and WHEREAS, Using this authority in November 2010, The American Legion entered into an agreement until March 31, 2012, with US Coin Boards, LLC, located in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, and Team Johnson Motorsports, LLC, located in Mooresville, North Carolina, to raise funds to support the Legion Racing Freedom Car as well as posts and departments in states that allow charitable gaming in American Legion posts; and WHEREAS, The agreement allows US Coin Boards, LLC, to design and distribute coin and merchandise gaming boards bearing The American Legion name, emblem and American Legion coins only to those posts that voluntarily elect to purchase said game boards and are so authorized by state and local laws to do so; and WHEREAS, US Coin Boards, LLC, and Team Johnson Motorsports will enforce these restrictions and will not sell coin boards to posts which do not follow federal and state gaming laws, or within any department without prior approval of the department executive committee; now, therefore, be it
44 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That the agreement signed on November 11, 2010, under authority of Resolution 42, NEC May 8, 1985, with US Coin Boards, LLC, and Team Johnson Motorsports be extended until March 31, 2012; and, be it finally RESOLVED, That a licensing agreement must be obtained from national Emblem Sales, that US Coin Boards, LLC, may only sell products with The American Legion Emblem to raise funds for the Legion Racing Freedom Car where authorized by federal and state gaming laws.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: This has the approval of the Internal Affairs Commission, Finance Commission, your Subcommittee on Resolutions, and I so move for its approval. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and second to approve resolution number 7. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Resolution No. 8: 2011 American Legion Boys Nation Contract Origin: Americanism Commission Submitted by: Finance Commission WHEREAS, It is necessary that The American Legion enter into a contract with Marymount University, Arlington, Virginia, for the purpose of providing a site for the 2011 American Legion Boys Nation Program; and WHEREAS, This resolution has been reviewed by the National Americanism Commission and with concurrence from the National Finance Commission recommended to the National Executive Committee for favorable action; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That The American Legion is hereby authorized to enter into a contract with Marymount University for the 2011 American Legion Boys Nation Program; and, be it finally RESOLVED, That when the 2011 American Legion Boys Nation contract has been drafted and finalized, the National Commander, after review and approval by the National Judge Advocate, be and is hereby authorized and directed to execute said 2011 contract and the National Adjutant be and is hereby authorized and directed to attest same.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: This has the approval of the Americanism Commission, your Finance Commission, and your Subcommittee on Resolutions. I move for its adoption. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and second to adopt resolution number 8. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Resolution No. 9: Authority to Amend Agreement with Michael Peterson Origin: Americanism Commission Submitted by: Finance Commission WHEREAS, Michael Peterson has been a stalwart advocate of The American Legion and a generous supporter of The American Legion Legacy Scholarship Fund for several years; and WHEREAS, Michael Peterson has taken on the role as an official spokesperson for The American Legion Legacy Scholarship Fund; and WHEREAS, Michael Peterson generously splits net profits from sales of his music products "It's Who We Are" DVD and "You Could Hear A Pin Drop" CD with The American Legion for The American Legion Legacy Scholarship Fund; and
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 45 WHEREAS, Michael Peterson has again generously agreed to split net profits from sales of his new music product "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother" DVD with The American Legion for The American Legion Legacy Scholarship Fund; and WHEREAS, It is appropriate for funds from the sale of Michael Peterson's music product "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother" DVD to be allocated to The American Legion Legacy Scholarship Fund; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That The American Legion amend its current contract agreement with Michael Peterson to reflect promotion of his music products "It's Who We Are" DVD, "You Could Hear A Pin Drop" CD, and "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother" DVD; and, be it further RESOLVED, That in return Michael Peterson will donate fifty percent of the net profit from sales of each of those music products to The American Legion; and, be it further RESOLVED, That these donations be allocated to The American Legion Legacy Scholarship Fund; and, be it further RESOLVED, That The American Legion may proceed with any future amended contract agreements for additional music products Michael Peterson may offer to benefit The American Legion Legacy Scholarship Fund; and, be it finally RESOLVED, That after review by the National Judge Advocate for legal sufficiency of said amended contract agreements, the National Commander be and is hereby authorized and directed to execute said amended contract agreements, and that the National Adjutant be and is hereby authorized and directed to attest same.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: This has the approval of the Americanism Commission, the Finance Commission, and your Subcommittee on Resolutions, and I move for its adoption. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and second to adopt resolution number 9. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Resolution No. 10: Rescinding of Res. No. 17, National Executive Committee, October 2009 - Travel Policy for Call-Ins Origin: Finance Commission Submitted by: Finance Commission WHEREAS, Resolution No. 1 of the National Executive Committee of October 13- 14, 2010, supersedes Resolution No. 17 of the National Executive Committee October 14-15, 2009; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That Resolution No. 17 of the National Executive Committee of October 14-15, 2009, Travel Policy For Call-Ins, is hereby rescinded.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: This has the approval of your National Finance Commission, and approval of your Subcommittee on Resolutions. I move for its adoption. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and second to adopt resolution number 10. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried. Resolution No. 11: Establishment of The American Legion Amateur Radio Club Origin: Public Relations Commission Submitted by: Finance Commission
46 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 WHEREAS, There are more than 700,000 amateur radio operators (Hams) in the country, many of them veterans who served in various electronics and communications fields in the military; and WHEREAS, They constitute a demographic that can and should be served by The American Legion; and WHEREAS, Resolution No. 134: The American Legion Role In Homeland Security, passed by the 92nd National Convention, encourages activities that support disaster preparedness and response; and WHEREAS, The American Legion Disaster Preparedness and Response Guide for American Legion Posts encourages amateur radio emergency communications capabilities; and WHEREAS, Amateur radio plays a vital role in disaster communications "When All Else Fails"; and WHEREAS, Veterans issues and American Legion programs can be discussed during amateur radio nets on amateur frequencies; and WHEREAS, Amateur radio tends to attract youth, which is one of the pillars of The American Legion; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That The American Legion Amateur Radio Club be established to facilitate public communication with our nation's federally licensed amateur radio operators who are veterans; and, be it further RESOLVED, That membership in The American Legion Amateur Radio Club will be open to all federally licensed amateur radio operators who are members of The American Legion, the American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of The American Legion; and, be it further RESOLVED, That American Legion Posts encourage member participation in amateur radio licensing and emergency communications; and, be it finally RESOLVED, That an amount not to exceed $1,000 be authorized to facilitate the establishment of The American Legion Amateur Radio Club as an approved activity of The American Legion.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: This has the approval of the Public Relations Commission, your National Finance Commission, your Subcommittee on Resolutions, and I so move for its adoption. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and second to adopt resolution number 11. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Resolution No. 12: Label the Four Pillars on the National Headquarters Building in Indianapolis Origin: Internal Affairs Commission Submitted by: Finance Commission WHEREAS, The American Legion was founded on four pillars: Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation, National Security, Americanism, and Children & Youth, and each of these pillars encompasses a variety of programs that benefit our nation's veterans, its servicemembers, their families, the youth of America and ordinary citizens; and WHEREAS, At the National Headquarters building, 700 North Pennsylvania Street, in Indianapolis, Indiana, there are four massive limestone Doric columns on the east side of the building and four massive limestone Doric columns on the west side of the building; and
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 47 WHEREAS, During the 2010 National American Legion College, a student recommended that the columns be named and labeled after the four pillars of The American Legion; and WHEREAS, Taking this idea, the national staff asked the Indiana War Memorial Commission, who manages the building for the State of Indiana, if this was a feasible request and by their vote and the consent of the Indiana Historical Preservation Society has granted approval if the National Executive Committee so concurs; and WHEREAS, All costs must be borne by The American Legion for engraving the following words, which are shortened versions but still encompass The American Legion's basic missions, on the four columns of each side of the building VETERANS, DEFENSE, AMERICANISM and YOUTH in six inch lettering; and WHEREAS, The cost for this project is estimated not to exceed $10,000.00; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That The American Legion enter into an agreement with the State of Indiana and an authorized State of Indiana vendor for engraving the words: VETERANS, DEFENSE, AMERICANISM and YOUTH on the four columns on the east and west main entrances to the National Headquarters building located at 700 North Pennsylvania Street, Indianapolis, Indiana for an amount not to exceed $10,000.00; and, be it further RESOLVED, That the National Commander be and is hereby authorized to negotiate the terms and conditions of said agreement with the State of Indiana and the approved vendor; and, be it finally RESOLVED, That the National Commander, after review and approval by the National Judge Advocate, be and is hereby authorized and directed to execute said agreement and the National Adjutant be and is hereby authorized and directed to attest same.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: This has the approval of the Internal Affairs Commission, the Finance Commission, and the Subcommittee on Resolutions, therefore, I move for its adoption. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and second to adopt resolution number 12. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Resolution No. 13: Rescission of Outdated Resolutions Origin: The American Legion Magazine Commission Submitted by: Finance Commission WHEREAS, In accordance with resolutions of the 1959 and 1960 National Conventions, the National Executive Committee, through its Program Study Committee, has caused to be made a review of all non-legislative policy resolutions, and such action has been taken in further conference with the action of the 1936 National Convention, which established policy on the life of such resolutions; and WHEREAS, The Magazine Commission has concluded an extensive review of 122 National Executive Committee and National Convention resolutions relating to the Magazine Division from 1919-2010; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That the following resolutions be, and they are being, rescinded by reason of (1) being obsolete, (2) accomplishment of purpose, (3) having been superseded by later resolutions, (4) being in conflict with later resolutions, (5) having been duplicated by
48 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 later resolutions, (6) having no value because of later changes in programs, and (7) for other reasons.
No. 1 Natl. Conv. Transf. of the Cont. for the Pub. of Aug 1930 The A.L. Monthly #2 – Accomplished No. 3 Natl. Conv. Monthly News Periodical #6–Later Changes Aug 1935 No. 26 NEC May 1938 Substitution of Name #2 – Accomplished No. 4 NEC Oct 1942 Bank Acct. for Auth. Rep. for TALM #2 – Accomplished No. 53 NEC Oct 1944 Publications Contracts #2 – Accomplished No. 386 Natl. Conv. Nat. Leg. be Dist. Among Our Aug 1944 Armed Forces #2 – Accomplished No. 24 NEC May 1944 Renew. of Cont. and Leases by the Leg. Publications #2 – Accomplished No. 30 NEC Oct 1945 Legion Publication's Contracts #2 – Accomplished No. 46 NEC May 1945 Pub. Division Contracts and Leases #2 – Accomplished No. 127 NEC May 1946 Paper Contracts for TALM and Nat. Leg. #2 – Accomplished No. 38 NEC Oct 1947 Contract to Transcribe TALM Into Braille #2 – Accomplished No. 14 NEC Oct 1948 Legion Publications Contracts #2 – Accomplished No. 16 NEC Oct 1948 Auth. for Alexander Gardiner and/or Frank Lisiecki #2 – Accomplished No. 32 NEC Oct 1948 Change the National Legionnaire #6–Later Changes No. 55 NEC Oct 1949 Contracts of the Publications Division #2 – Accomplished No. 29 NEC Oct 1950 Publications Contracts #2 – Accomplished No. 29 NEC May 1950 Surr. of Pub. Commission's Quarters At One Park Avenue Building City, New York #2 – Accomplished No. 30 NEC May 1950 Lease for Office Space for Pub. Commission in the 580 Fifth Avenue Building, New York #2 – Accomplished No. 1 NEC Oct 1951 Auth. Agent H.J. Prussing to Open an Account In National Boulevard Bank of Chicago #2 – Accomplished No. 2 NEC Oct 1951 Legion Publication Contracts #2 – Accomplished No. 2 NEC Oct 1952 Cont. for the Pub. and Dist. of TALM #2 – Accomplished No. 3 Natl. Conv. Paper Contract #2 – Accomplished Aug 1953 No. 29 NEC May 1953 Cont. with Kimberly-Clark Corp. #2 – Accomplished No. 30 NEC May 1953 Proposed Cont. with Eschen and Roe Company #2 – Accomplished No. 58 NEC May 1953 Title of Dir. of Publications be Changed To Publisher #2 – Accomplished No. 59 NEC May 1953 Cont. with Prentice Hall, Inc, to Publish and Sell in Book Form, Material Published in TALM #2 – Accomplished No. 7 NEC Fall 1954 Contract with Clovernook Printing House for the Blind #2 – Accomplished No. 3 Natl. Conv. Cont. Between the Clovernook PHB Aug 1954 and The A.L. #2 – Accomplished No. 4 Natl. Conv. Cont. for Body Paper for Aug 1954 Printing TALM #2 – Accomplished No. 21 NEC Oct 1955 Cont. for Body Paper for TALM #2 – Accomplished No. 22 NEC Oct 1955 Sale of Equip. Used in the Printing and Mailing of TALM #2 – Accomplished No. 23 NEC Oct 1955 Ext. and Mod. of Contract with Fawcett-Dearing Print. Comp. for
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 49 Printing and Mailing TALM #2 – Accomplished No. 24 NEC Oct 1955 Auth. to Open an Acct. in the Chase Manhattan Bank #2 – Accomplished No. 100 NEC May 1955 Approve Lease for Midwest Office of TALM #2 – Accomplished No. 101 NEC May 1955 Cont. with Mr. Arthur P. Kane as Sales Rep. of the Midwest Territory #2 – Accomplished No. 40 NEC May 1959 Rider to Lease Offices of TALM in New York City #2 – Accomplished No. 55 NEC May 1959 Auth. to Destroy TALM Manuscripts and Art #2 – Accomplished No. 19 NEC May 1961 Lease Renewal for the Chicago Office of TALM #3 – Superceded No. 8 NEC Oct 1962 Auth. to Destroy TALM Manuscripts #2 – Accomplished No. 23 NEC Oct 1962 TALM Adv. Cont. with The Dawson Comp., Miami, FL #2 – Accomplished No. 24 NEC Oct 1962 TALM Adv. Cont. with The Harlowe Comp., Seattle, WA #2 – Accomplished No. 25 NEC Oct 1962 TALM Adv. Cont. with Arden E. Roney & Associates, Los Angeles, CA #2 – Accomplished No. 30 NEC Oct 1962 New Lease of Office Space by the Chicago Office of TALM #2 – Accomplished No. 34 NEC Oct 1962 Printing Contract for TALM #2 – Accomplished No. 5 Natl. Conv. Mod. of Exist. Paper Contract Aug 1963 for TALM #2 – Accomplished No. 2 Natl. Conv. Auth. for TALM Advertising Aug 1966 Contract #2 – Accomplished No. 25 NEC Oct 1967 Empl. Agree. with Publisher of TALM Authorized #2 – Accomplished No. 2 NEC Oct 1968 Auth. to Neg. and Exec. a Lease for New Quarters for TALM #2 – Accomplished No. 3 NEC Oct 1968 Auth. to Neg. and Exec. a Contract With Cummins Chicago Corp. for Rental of Optical Scanner for Circ. Dep. Of TALM #2 – Accomplished No. 4 NEC Oct 1968 Auth. to Neg. and Exec. a Contract with Robert Redden Associates for the Purpose Of the Solic. Of Adv. For TALM #2 – Accomplished No. 17 NEC May 1968 New Printing Contract for TALM #2 – Accomplished No. 1 NEC Oct 1970 Auth. to Neg. and Exec. a Contract with Robert Redden Associates for the Purpose Of the Solic. Of Adv. For TALM #2 – Accomplished No. 1 NEC May 1971 The American Legion Magazine #1 – Obsolete No. 1 NEC Oct 1973 Auth. to Exec. a Renewal Contract with Robert Redden Associates for the Purpose of the Solic. of Adv.for TALM #2 – Accomplished No. 1 NEC May 1973 New Printing Contract for TAL #2 – Accomplished No. 1 NEC May 1974 Renew. of the Lease on Premises Now Occupied by the N.Y. Office of TALM #2 – Accomplished No. 40 NEC Oct 1976 Auth. a Lease of Office Space in NYC For Occupancy of the Publisher of TALM #2 – Accomplished No. 41 NEC Oct 1976 Auth. a Contract Between The A.L. and Robert P. Redden Associates, Inc., Begin. Jan. 1, 1977 #2 – Accomplished No. 34 NEC May 1976 Auth. to Neg. and Exec. a Lease for New Quarters for TALM (N.Y. Office) #2 – Accomplished No. 8 NEC Oct 1977 Auth. to Exec. Contracts With Bassinette/ White Comp., Robert Redden Associates,
50 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 Inc., Fox Associates, Inc., and Jules E. Thompson Inc., for the Solic. of Adv. For TALM #2 – Accomplished No. 9 NEC Oct 1977 Auth. to Nego. and Exec. a Contr. With Perkins-Goodwin Comp. for Light Weight Coated Paper for TALM #2 – Accomplished No. 10 NEC Oct 1977 Auth. to Nego. and Exec. a Contr. with Westvaco Corp. for Cover Paper for TALM #2 – Accomplished No. 19 NEC May 1977 Auth. for the Nego. of Cont. for Adv. Procur. In TALM #2 – Accomplished No. 1 NEC Oct 1978 Auth. to Neg. and Exec. a Contract with Robert Redden Associates for the Purpose of the Solic. of Adv. for TALM #2 – Accomplished No. 19 NEC May 1978 New Printing Contract for TALM #2 – Accomplished No. 1 NEC Oct 1980 Ren. of the Paper Cont. with Perkins- Goodwin Comp. #2 – Accomplished No. 2 NEC Oct 1980 Ren. of the Paper Cont. with Westvaco Corp. #2 – Accomplished No. 1 NEC Oct 1981 Auth. to Exec. a Contract with Robert Redden Associates, Inc. for the Solic. of Adv. For TALM #2 – Accomplished No. 1 NEC Oct 1983 Ext. of TALM Paper Cont. with Perkins- Goodwin Comp. for a Three-Year Period #2 – Accomplished No. 2 NEC Oct 1983 Ext. of TALM Paper Cont. with Westvaco Corp. for a Three-Year Period #2 – Accomplished No. 17 NEC May 1983 TALM Printing Contract #2 – Accomplished No. 34 NEC Oct 1984 A.L. Cont. with Starch-Inra-Hooper, Inc. #2 – Accomplished No. 35 NEC Oct 1984 TALM Cont. with Swofford Books Limited #2 – Accomplished No. 10 NEC May 1985 TALM Paper Cont. with Clayton International, Inc. #2 – Accomplished No. 11 NEC May 1985 TALM Adv. Cont. with Robert Redden Associates, Inc. #2 – Accomplished No. 12 NEC May 1985 TALM Adv. Cont. with Vetcom, Inc. #2 – Accomplished No. 25 NEC Oct 1986 TALM Paper Cont. with Nationwide Paper Comp. #2 – Accomplished No. 26 NEC Oct 1986 TALM Paper Cont. with Clayton International, Inc. #2 – Accomplished No. 35 NEC May 1986 Cont. for Adv. Representation for TALM #2 – Accomplished No. 14 NEC May 1987 TALM Adv. Cont. with Fox Associates, Inc., of Chicago, IL #2 - Accomplished
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: This has the approval of The American Legion Magazine Commission, the Finance Commission, and the Subcommittee on Resolutions, therefore I move for its adoption. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and second to adopt resolution number 13. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Resolution No. 14: Rescinding of Insurance Resolutions Origin: Insurance Committee Submitted by: Finance Commission WHEREAS, In accordance with resolutions of the 1959 and 1960 National Conventions, the National Executive Committee, through its Program Study Committee, has caused to be made a review of all non-legislative policy resolutions, and such action
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 51 has been taken in further conference with the action of the 1936 National Convention which established policy on the life of such resolutions; and WHEREAS, The National Finance Commission through The American Legion Insurance Committee has concluded an extensive review of 127 National Executive Committee and National Convention resolutions relating to The American Legion Life Insurance Program from the year 1959 through 2010; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That the following resolutions be and they are being rescinded for (1) being obsolete, (2) accomplishment of purpose, (3) being superseded by later resolutions, (4) being in conflict with later resolutions, (5) being duplicated by later resolutions, (6) having no value because of later changes in program; and (7) for other reasons.
RES. ORIGIN TITLE REASON NO. Authorize the Signing of Policy Endorsements for 16 NEC May 1963 The American Legion Life Insurance Plan to Superseded Permit Coverage Beyond 70th Birthdays Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 17 NEC May 1963 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 1 NEC May 1964 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 45 NEC May 1965 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Authorizing New Administration Agreement 35 NEC Oct 1966 Obsolete Under American Legion Life Insurance Plan Creating New Age Bracket in American Legion 36 NEC Oct 1966 Accomplished Life Insurance Plan for Viet Nam War Veterans Granting Increased Benefits in American Legion 37 NEC Oct 1966 Accomplished Life Insurance Plan for 1967 Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 39 NEC May 1966 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Approval to Prepare Agreement for American 43 NEC May 1966 Obsolete Legion Life Insurance Plan Granting Increased Benefits in American Legion 4 NEC Oct 1967 Accomplished Life Insurance Plan for 1968 Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 30 NEC May 1967 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses The American Legion Life Insurance Scholarship 31 NEC May 1967 Superseded Program Twenty-five Two-year Scholarships under The 1 Natl Conv 1968 American Legion Life Insurance Scholarship Superseded Program Granting Increased Benefits in American Legion 2 Natl Conv 1968 Accomplished Life Insurance Plan for 1969 Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 62 NEC May 1968 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses To Increase 25 Additional Scholarships under 63 NEC May 1968 The American Legion Life Insurance Scholarship Superseded Program Granting Increased Benefits in American Legion 25 NEC Oct 1969 Accomplished Life Insurance Plan for 1970 Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 50 NEC May 1969 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses 46 NEC Oct 1970 The American Legion Scholarship Program Obsolete Modification of Deposit Premium Fund 47 NEC Oct 1970 Accomplished Agreements Dated October 14, 1965
52 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 Use of American Legion Life Insurance Funds for Providing Awards to Department Winners of the 48 NEC Oct 1970 Superseded American Legion National High School Oratorical Contest at the Regional Level Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 49 NEC Oct 1970 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses To Transfer The American Legion Life Insurance Plan Bank Account from The First National Bank 55 NEC Oct 1970 of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, to the Continental Accomplished Illinois National Bank and Trust Company of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois Granting Increased Benefits in American Legion 2 Natl Conv 1970 Accomplished Life Insurance Plan for 1971 To Make Available to American Legion Members 3 Natl Conv 1970 Additional Units of Life Insurance Up to a Total Accomplished of Four Units, in Multiples of One To Transfer The American Legion Life Insurance Plan Bank Account from the First National Bank 4 Natl Conv 1970 Accomplished of Chicago, Illinois to the Mercantile National Bank of Chicago, Illinois Use of American Legion Life Insurance Funds for Providing Awards to Department Winners of 43 NEC May 1970 Superseded American Legion National High School Oratorical Contest Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 44 NEC May 1970 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Use of American Legion Life Insurance Funds for Increasing Scholarship Awards to National 45 NEC May 1970 Accomplished Winners of The American Legion National High School Oratorical Contest Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 4 NEC Oct 1971 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Approval to reimburse The American Legion for 53 NEC May 1971 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Second Amendment to Administration and Promotion Agreement and Notice to the 57 NEC May 1971 Obsolete Administrator of Intention to Enter into a New Administration and Promotion Agreement Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 26 NEC Oct 1972 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 26 NEC May 1972 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 9 NEC Oct 1973 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Amending Age Brackets for The American 1 Natl Conv 1973 Accomplished Legion Life Insurance Plan Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 41 NEC May 1973 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Use of American Legion Life Insurance Funds for 42 NEC May 1973 Assistance in the Furtherance of The American Accomplished Legion Baseball Program Use of American Legion Life Insurance Funds for 1 NEC Oct 1974 Assistance in the Furtherance of The American Accomplished Legion Baseball Program (1974 Year) Use of The American Legion Life Insurance 2 NEC Oct 1974 Funds for Assistance in the Furtherance of The Accomplished American Legion Baseball Program (1975 Year)
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 53 Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 3 NEC Oct 1974 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 27 NEC May 1974 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Use of American Legion Life Insurance Funds for 44 NEC May 1974 Assistance in the Furtherance of The American Accomplished Legion Baseball Program Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 17 NEC Oct 1975 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Use of American Legion Life Insurance Funds for 18 NEC Oct 1975 Assistance in the Furtherance of The American Accomplished Legion Baseball Program To Make Available to American Legion Members 2 Natl Conv 1975 Additional Units of Life Insurance Up to a Total Accomplished of Six Units, in Multiples of One Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 33 NEC May 1975 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Use of American Legion Life Insurance Funds for 9 NEC Oct 1976 Assistance in the Furtherance of The American Accomplished Legion Baseball Program Granting Increased Benefits in American Legion 10 NEC Oct 1976 Accomplished Life Insurance Plan for 1977 Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 11 NEC Oct 1976 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Modification of Deposit Premium Fund 14 NEC Oct 1976 Accomplished Agreements Dated October 14, 1965 Granting Increased Benefits in American Legion 26 NEC May 1976 Accomplished Life Insurance Plan for 1976 Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 27 NEC May 1976 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Modification of Deposit Premium Fund 28 NEC May 1976 Accomplished Agreements Dated October 14, 1965 Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 12 NEC Oct 1977 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Granting Increase Benefits in American Legion 13 NEC Oct 1977 Accomplished Life Insurance Plan for 1978 Use of The American Legion Life Insurance 14 NEC Oct 1977 Funds for Assistance in the Furtherance of The Accomplished American Legion Baseball Program Junior Uniformed Groups Participation at the 19 NEC Oct 1977 Accomplished National Convention of The American Legion Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 17 NEC May 1977 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Granting Increased Benefits in American Legion 22 NEC Oct 1978 Accomplished Life Insurance Plan for 1979 Modification of Deposit Premium Fund 23 NEC Oct 1978 Accomplished Agreements Dated October 14, 1965 Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 24 NEC Oct 1978 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 29 NEC May 1978 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Use of The American Legion Life Insurance 25 NEC Oct 1979 Funds for Assistance in the Furtherance of The Accomplished American Legion Baseball Program To Make Available to American Legion Members 26 NEC Oct 1979 Additional Units Life Insurance Up to a Total of Accomplished Eight Units, in Multiples of One.
54 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 Granting Increased Benefits in American Legion 27 NEC Oct 1979 Accomplished Life Insurance Plan for 1980 Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 28 NEC Oct 1979 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Granting Increased Benefits in American Legion 17 NEC Oct 1980 Accomplished Life Insurance Plan for 1981 Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 18 NEC 1980 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Use of American Legion Life Insurance Funds for Supporting the Activities and Programs Serving 23 NEC Oct 1980 Accomplished the Interests of the Membership and Post Activities Section Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 25 NEC May 1980 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Modification of Deposit Premium Fund 26 NEC May 1980 Accomplished Agreements Dated October 14, 1965 Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 3 NEC Oct 1981 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Granting Increased Benefits in American Legion 4 NEC Oct 1981 Accomplished Life Insurance Plan for 1982 Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 16 NEC May 1981 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 16 NEC Oct 1982 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Endorsement to The American Legion Life 17 NEC Oct 1982 Insurance Group Policies to Provide a Facility of Accomplished Payment Granting Increased Benefits in American Legion 18 NEC Oct 1982 Accomplished Life Insurance Plan for 1983 Use of American Legion Life Insurance Funds for 19 NEC Oct 1982 Supporting the Activities and Programs of the Accomplished Membership and Post Activities Section To Make Available to American Legion Members 20 NEC Oct 1982 Additional Units of Life Insurance Up to a Total Accomplished of Ten Units, in Multiples of One Use of American Legion Life Insurance Funds for 21 NEC Oct 1982 Assistance in the Furtherance of The American Accomplished Legion Baseball Program Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 20 NEC May 1982 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses First Amendment to Administration and 9 NEC Oct 1983 Accomplished Promotion Agreement Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 11 NEC Oct 1983 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Granting Increased Benefits in American Legion 12 NEC Oct 1983 Accomplished Life Insurance Plan for 1984 Use of American Legion Life Insurance Funds for Supporting the Activities and Programs Serving 13 NEC Oct 1983 Accomplished the Interest of the Membership and Post Activities Section Use of American Legion Life Insurance Funds for 14 NEC Oct 1983 Assistance in the Furtherance of The American Accomplished Legion Baseball Program Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 13 NEC May 1983 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Granting Increased Benefits in American Legion 12 NEC Oct 1984 Accomplished Life Insurance Plan for 1985
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 55 To Make Available to American Legion Members 17 NEC Oct 1984 Additional Units of Life Insurance Up to a Total Accomplished of Twelve Units in Multiples of One Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 18 NEC Oct 1984 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 21 NEC May 1984 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 6 NEC Oct 1985 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Granting Increased Benefits in American Legion 7 NEC Oct 1985 Accomplished Life Insurance Plan for 1986 Use of American Legion Life Insurance Funds for 8 NEC Oct 1985 Assistance in the Furtherance of The American Accomplished Legion Baseball Program Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 32 NEC May 1985 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Expansion of The American Legion Life 1 NEC Oct 1986 Superseded Insurance Program Granting Increased Benefits in American Legion 7 NEC Oct 1986 Accomplished Life Insurance Plan for 1987 Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 8 NEC Oct 1986 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 33 NEC May 1986 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses To Make Available to American Legion Members 34 NEC May 1986 Additional Units of Life Insurance up to a Total Accomplished of Fourteen Units in Multiples of One Granting Increased Benefits in American Legion 16 NEC Oct 1987 Accomplished Life Insurance Plan for 1988 Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 17 NEC Oct 1987 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 15 NEC May 1987 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Use of American Legion Life Insurance Funds for 16 NEC May 1987 Accomplished the Department Service Officers School Granting Increased Benefits in The American 16 NEC Oct 1988 Accomplished Legion Life Insurance Plan for 1989 Use of American Legion Life Insurance Trust Funds for Supporting the Activities Serving the 17 NEC Oct 1988 Accomplished Interests of The American Legion Insurance Program Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 20 NEC May 1988 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Replacement of the Original American Legion 26 NEC Oct 1989 Life Insurance Plan (ALLIP I) with a New Plan Superseded (ALLIP II) To Make Available to American Legion Members 15 NEC May 1989 Additional Units of Life Insurance Up to a Total Accomplished of Sixteen Units in Multiples of One Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 12 NEC Oct 1991 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 23 NEC May 1991 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses Approval to Reimburse The American Legion for 21 NEC May 1992 Accomplished Life Insurance Expenses 14 NEC Oct 1995 Renewal of Insurance Program Contracts Superseded 11 NEC May 1995 American Legion Insurance Program Expansion Superseded
56 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 The American Legion Worldwide CHAMPUS 12 NEC May 1996 Accomplished Supplement Program Revision of Brokerage and Administration 19 NEC May 1997 Superseded Agreement for the Life Insurance Program Nationwide Medicare HMO Network – Pilot 22 NEC May 1998 Accomplished Program Uniformed Musical Groups Participation at the 13 NEC Oct 2000 Accomplished National Convention of The American Legion National Major Medical Insurance Program for 33 NEC Oct 2000 Accomplished Members and Small Employer Groups Use of The American Legion Life Insurance Fund 11 NEC Oct 2003 Account for Assistance in the Furtherance of The Accomplished American Legion Baseball Program 2004 Change of Carrier for The American Legion Life 21 NEC May 2003 Superseded Insurance Plans National Short Term Recovery Insurance 6 NEC Oct 2005 Accomplished Program Administration and Promotion of The American 8 NEC Oct 2005 Superseded Legion Insurance Program Review of Administration and Promotion of The 9 NEC May 2005 Superseded American Legion Insurance Program Change of Carrier for The American Legion Life 10 NEC May 2005 Superseded Insurance Plans Administration and Promotion of The American 17 NEC May 2008 Superseded Legion Insurance Program
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: This resolution has the approval of the Insurance Committee, the Finance Commission, and the Subcommittee on Resolutions, therefore, I move for its adoption. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and second to approve resolution number 14. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried. RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: Commander, attached to the report is Addendum A. I move that the action of the National Finance Commission become the action of the National Executive Committee. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and second to approve the addendum. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried. Thank you, sir. Thank you Ken for your report. The Chair recognizes Wayne W. Jensen, President 2010 National Convention Corporation for his final report.
Oral Report: 2010 National Convention Committee of Wisconsin Wayne W. Jensen, Wisconsin, President
Good morning, Mr. Commander, Adjutant Wheeler, gentlemen. Following in the footsteps of the 2000 National Convention in Milwaukee, I recognized the single most important endeavor to get us on the right path would be the selection of key committee members. While organizing the corporation, the wise older members of the previous National Convention corporation board, with a few exceptions, stepped aside to afford their younger counterparts to benefit from this opportunity. I was particularly blessed by having a team I had spent over 30 years with on the Milwaukee Police Department step forward. The benefit was knowing ahead of time the capabilities and dependability of these volunteers. Their knowledge of the community; the means to cut through red tape; the ability to take charge and make decisions, aided immeasurably in the success of this campaign. This in no way slights the invaluable contributions of the other key personnel that came to the table.
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 57 Of equal importance was the coordination with the national organization staff. From day one this proved to be a happy marriage. Sound leadership at the top is a key ingredient to a successful venture. Never, and I mean never, was there a doubt as to proper procedure and protocol. Mr. Dick Holmes was constantly a guiding light in every facet of this convention. Not once did I contact him for direction without walking away with clear, concise advice as to proper procedure and necessary requirements. He not only exuded confidence, but insured his confidence in me. This was engendered throughout his staff, and as a result was passed along to my staff. Room for improvement? Always. Following is food for thought to make future conventions even better. It is encouraged that any bid include a package from the host city that includes they pick up the tab for shuttle service. Without that benefit, any corporation will be fortunate to break even economically. As relates to convention bags, the present system whereby the national organization performs the bulk of stuffing the convention bags and transporting them to the convention site is imperative. The amount of volunteers and time consumption that is necessary for this task, if you did it otherwise would be untenable. Consideration of decreasing the volume of the convention bags might be considered. Although the Department of Wisconsin was able to utilize the leftover convention bags at our veterans centers, which, incidentally, is a great advertising tool because the logo is the on those convention bags, the cost is somewhat extravagant. To set Wisconsin apart from previous conventions, we endeavored to have a combined reception for all Legion and Auxiliary committee chairpersons. The intent was to welcome those dignitaries to our community, and at the same time recognize them for their efforts. We included significant chairpersons from the Legion and Auxiliary corporation staffs for the same purpose. We felt this reception was a great success, worthy of consideration at future conventions. The National Convention parade was well planned and organized for the most part. With the assistance of the Milwaukee Police Department, traffic control was expertly handled. Entrance to the parade route offered minor glitches due to the ever-friendly orange barricades. However, this proved to be a minor obstacle. At the end of the parade we had a small obstacle with the sheer volume of buses needing parking. However, Mr. Holmes and volunteers with experience in such matters quickly rectified that situation. For whatever reason, the post parade party started slowly. This was attributed to the opening band being reticent to start for fear of overriding the marching bands. Once they commenced, Legionnaires started filling the park. Incidentally, the first band was comprised of returning Afghan/Iraqi veterans who, through the Clement Zablocki Veterans Center, formed their band as a therapeutic rehab for PTSD. Kudos to National Commander Clarence Hill for taking the time to perform the ribbon cutting ceremony, as well as Jacob Gadd and the National Veterans Affairs Committee for their funding of the Dry Hootch House whereby veterans in the community have a "dry place" to interact with each other, over and above the veterans center and/or Legion hall where alcohol might be served. This house is situated near the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee campus and serves as a place for these vets to enjoy communicating. An area of concern that other conventions may consider, is the relationship between their respective department and the corporation. In our case, the department had no clear- cut concept of what the corporation was trying to accomplish. At times this caused confusion at best. My suggestion is, early on in the campaign the corporation consult with the respective department executive committee to iron out expectations. Although our executive committee and department adjutant were given copies of the contracts, I failed to take into account the annual turnover in officers, and in this instance, our adjutant.
58 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 There was much needless time wasted sorting out policy and procedure for various outside entities. They were unclear as to where to go to have their needs met. Future consideration. The National Veterans Affairs Committee brought forth a suggestion for a 5K run/walk which bears consideration. However, it should be noted the actual conducting of the convention proper is so time consuming in and of itself that any such venture should be set up between the respective national committee, and the department hosting the convention. Not the convention committee or the corporation. Here's a little stretching of the envelope, food for thought: As relates to the national organization offering monies to local high school groups for marching bands, might I offer for consideration a new concept for competition, that of drum lines. What with our conventions being held in major metropolises, the majority of high schools are comprised of minority students who embrace drum lines as a means of competitive entertainment. My thought is that this would show minority veterans and their families that we value their contributions and what they bring to the table. Financial side of this. For the purpose of this report, I'll give you the bottom line. I already had a meeting with the Finance Commission yesterday and gave them our audit and our financial report and it was approved. The bottom line is the income derived from this convention was $147,128.30. The expenses incurred $56,253.81. Profit total, $90,874.57. Divided equally between the national and department organizations, this equates to $45,437.28 each. (Applause) On behalf of the Department of Wisconsin, the corporation, and the hundreds of volunteers, I want to thank the national organization for the opportunity to conduct the 2010 National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. We trust you enjoyed it as much as we enjoyed bringing it to you. I would like separate action to consider permitting the 2010 National Convention Corporation, Inc. to properly dissolve, and at this time gives me great pleasure to present to the national organization with this check for $45,437.28. (Applause) ... At this time National Vice Commander Mella assumed the Chair. Thank you folks for your time. Thank you Commander. ... At this time National Commander Foster resumed the Chair. RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: Motion to receive and file the report. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion to receive and file the final report of the 2010 National Convention Corporation. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried. Thank you, Wayne. We had a great time there. At this time I recognize Michael Walton, chairman of the Convention Commission from Illinois.
Oral Report: National Convention Commission Michael E. Walton, Illinois, Chairman
Good morning Commander Foster, members of the NEC, and distinguished guests. Although the written report is in your packet, I want to touch on some of the highlights of our meetings the past couple of days. As you just heard, Wayne Jensen, president of the 2010 National Convention Corporation, gave a final report regarding the Milwaukee Convention, which was August 27th through September 2nd. We believe it was a huge success. So, kudos to Wayne and all those folks in Wisconsin. The planning for the 2011 93rd National Convention is on schedule for Minneapolis, which will be August 26th through September 1st. And as a request for our commander, we have the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band that will be performing for the commander, per his request.
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 59 We had four competitive cities bid on the 2016 98th National Convention. They were Cincinnati, Ohio; Columbus, Ohio; Detroit, Michigan and Los Angeles, California. The city of Cincinnati, Ohio is recommended to receive the tentative award for the 2016 National Convention for the dates of August 26th through September 1st, 2016. Also, you have already heard from my counterpart, Commission Chairman Ken Danilson, regarding the 2018 and 2019 National Conventions, and you've already approved that, but I just wanted you to know that our commission is very excited about the 100th National Convention being in Minneapolis in 2018 and the year-long 100th Anniversary celebration which will culminate at our 2019 National Convention here at the home of our National Headquarters in Indianapolis. Also, Chairman Danilson's report reflected the increase regarding the registration fee which will begin in 2012. You might want to note, that's the first time that's been increased in 20 years. So, we've been able to do all right for that long. But as you know with fuel costs and everything, it's very difficult. Thus far, we have the following cities supported by the appropriate resolutions bidding on the 2017 National Convention of The American Legion. They are Detroit, Michigan; Louisville, Kentucky; Nashville, Tennessee; Reno, Nevada; Salt Lake City, Utah, and San Juan, Puerto Rico. Mr. Commander, and members of the NEC, that concludes my report. I would like to thank you for allowing me to serve.
Report: National Convention Commission May 2 – 3, 2011 Michael E. Walton, Illinois, Chairman
Chairman Michael E. Walton, Illinois, called the meeting to order at 8:00 A.M., May 2, 2011. Roll call was taken and all members, not excused due to illness, were present. Resolution No. 40 – Approval of the recommendation by the National Convention Commission that the contract between the National Organization of The American Legion and the 2014 American Legion National Convention Corporation of North Carolina, Incorporated for the dates of August 22 – 28, 2014 be signed by the National Commander and the President of the 2014 National Convention Corporation. Resolution No. 15 – Rescinding of National Convention Commission Resolutions. These are resolutions that have become obsolete or resolutions that have been accomplished and therefore should be rescinded. Cincinnati, Ohio, Columbus, Ohio, Detroit, Michigan and Los Angeles, California provided presentations requesting they be awarded the 2016 National Convention of The American Legion. The city of Cincinnati, Ohio is recommended to receive the tentative award of the 2016 National Convention for the dates of August 26 – September 1, 2016. Planning for the 93rd National Convention of the American Legion is on schedule. The Minneapolis Convention Center will be the site of the general sessions, the exhibit hall, Color Guard contests, band contest, the National Commander's Banquet, and the Auxiliary States Dinner. The National Staff Offices for the American Legion, the Auxiliary, SAL and Distinguished Guest Registration area will also be in the Minneapolis Convention Center. The National Commander's Banquet, on August 30, 2011, will feature the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, as our entertainment. The National Convention Commission is excited about the 100th National Convention in Minneapolis, Minnesota in 2018, site of our 1st National Convention, and then the year long 100th anniversary celebration culminating at the 2019 National Convention in the home of our National Headquarters, Indianapolis, Indiana. One other item discussed at our Convention Commission meeting and forward to the National
60 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 Finance Commission for their action was a convention registration increase from $15.00 to $25.00 effective at the 2012 National Convention. It has been 20 years since the last convention registration increase to $15.00. Wayne Jensen, President of the National American Legion Convention Committee, Incorporated gave his final report to the National Convention Commission for the 92nd National Convention of The American Legion. Mr. Jensen reported the 2010 convention corporation generated a profit of $90,874.57 and he will present the National Commander with a check for $45,437.28. Our National Convention Request for Proposal (RFP) has been updated to reflect our current numbers and to ensure what we provide to bidding cities is properly reflected within the RFP. The RFP will be sent to those cities desiring to bid on the 2017 National Convention, which have been authorized via the appropriate resolution by their respective Department to bid. The RFP will be updated each year as necessary. Chairman Walton assigned each member of the commission a specific committee functions to observe at the 2011 National Convention. Each commission member will report their findings to the full commission during the 2011 Fall Meeting in Indianapolis, Indiana. We have six Departments of The American Legion that have submitted the proper resolution expressing their interest in bidding on the 2017 National Convention. The cities being supported by the appropriate resolution are Detroit, Michigan, Louisville, Kentucky, Nashville, Tennessee, Reno, Nevada, Salt Lake City, Utah and San Juan, Puerto Rico. Dates for future National Conventions are:
Minneapolis, MN August 26 – September 1, 2011 Indianapolis, IN August 24 – 30, 2012 Houston, TX August 23 – 29, 2013 Charlotte, NC August 22 – 28, 2014 Baltimore, MD August 28 – September 3, 2015
Addendum A: Resolutions Not Approved
Received and Recorded Register Resolution No. 2650 (OH) (DEC): City of Columbus offers to host the 2016 National Convention Register Resolution No. 2651 (PR) (DEC): City of San Juan offers to host the 2017 National Convention Register Resolution No. 2652 (UT) (DEC): City of Salt Lake City offers to host the 2017 National Convention Register Resolution No. 2653 (MI) (DEC): City of Detroit offers to host the 2016 National Convention Register Resolution No. 2654 (NV) (DEC): City of Reno offers to host the 2017 National Convention Register Resolution No. 2655 (TN) (DEC): City of Nashville offers to host the 2017 National Convention Register Resolution No. 2656 (KY) (DEC): City of Louisville offers to host the 2017 National Convention Register Resolution No. 2659 (CA) (DEC): City of Los Angeles offers to host the 2016 National Convention
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 61 Addendum B: Date of Events/Meetings
Events/Meetings Dates 2016 National Convention – Cincinnati, Ohio August 26 – September 1, 2016
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: Mr. Commander, motion to receive and file the report of the Convention Commission with the exception of two resolutions and two addenda. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion to receive and file the report of the National Convention Commission. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Resolution No. 40: 2014 National Convention Contract Origin: National Convention Commission Submitted by: National Convention Commission WHEREAS, The National Convention Commission has reviewed the status of the proposed National American Legion Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina, August 22 – 28, 2014; and WHEREAS, Subject to receiving a properly executed contract from the 2014 American Legion National Convention Corporation of North Carolina the National Convention Commission believes that all conditions for a contract covering The American Legion National Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina, August 22 – 28, 2014, have been satisfied; and WHEREAS, The National Convention Commission hereby recommends to the National Executive Committee that it enter into the appropriate contract with the 2014 American Legion National Convention Corporation of North Carolina to cover the 2014 American Legion National Convention; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4 – 5, 2011, That the National Commander, after receipt of an executed contract from the 2014 American Legion Convention Corporation of North Carolina and the review and approval of same from the National Judge Advocate, be and is hereby authorized and directed to execute said contract and the National Adjutant, be and is hereby authorized and directed to attest to same.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN HEDRICK: This has the approval of the National Convention Commission, and your Subcommittee on Resolutions. I want to say this has been read under Rule 8A, and this will be read again four hours later. Let it be known it is being read at 11:38 a.m.
Resolution No. 15: Rescinding of National Convention Commission Resolutions Origin: National Convention Commission Submitted by: National Convention Commission WHEREAS, The National Convention Commission reviews its resolutions on a regular basis in accordance with the suggested review practices recommended by the National Conventions and the 1961 Report of the Program Study Committee by the National Executive Committee; and WHEREAS, The National Convention Commission has completed a review of National Executive Committee and National Convention resolutions pertaining to conventions and/or events which are still in effect; and WHEREAS, This review has found that 30 resolutions should be rescinded because they have been accomplished and/or are obsolete; now, therefore, be it
62 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That the following resolutions are rescinded for the reasons indicated below.
Accomplished/Obsolete Resolution No. 41 1952 Spring NEC 1953 Convention –St. Louis, MO Resolution No. 76 1956 Fall NEC 1960 Natl Conv- Boston, MA Resolution No. 33 1956 Spring NEC 1959 Natl Conv- Minneapolis/St.Paul, MN Resolution No. 19 1961 Fall NEC 1965 Convention- Philadelphia, PA Resolution No. 71 1961 Spring NEC 1962 Natl Conv Site Resolution No. 24 1976 Spring NEC 1976 Natl Conv Golf Tournament Resolution No. 16 1986 Spring NEC 1986 Natl Conv Festival Resolution No. 36 1988 Spring NEC 1989 Natl Conv Contract- Baltimore, MD Resolution No. 11 1989 Spring NEC 1990 Natl Conv Contract- Indianapolis, IN Resolution No. 46 1990 Spring NEC 1991 Natl Conv Contract- Phoenix, AZ Resolution No. 33 1991 Spring NEC 1992 Natl Conv Contract Resolution No. 23 1992 Spring NEC 1993 Natl Conv Contract- Pittsburgh, PA Resolution No. 23 1993 Spring NEC 1994 Natl Conv Contract- Minneapolis, MN Resolution No. 16 1994 Spring NEC 1995 Natl Conv Contract- Oregon Resolution No. 24 1995 Spring NEC 1996 Natl Conv Contract- Utah Resolution No. 25 1995 Spring NEC 1997 Natl Conv Contract- Orlando, FL Resolution No. 26 1995 Spring NEC 1998 Natl Conv Contract- New Orleans, LA Resolution No. 24 1996 Spring NEC 1999 Natl Conv Contract- Anaheim, CA Resolution No. 29 1997 Spring NEC 2000 Natl Conv Contract- Milwaukee, WI Resolution No. 41 1998 Spring NEC 2001 Natl Conv Contract- San Antonio, TX Resolution No. 24 1999 Fall NEC 2004 Natl Conv Hotel Opryland Contract Nashville, TN Resolution No. 19 1999 Spring NEC 2002 Natl Conv Contract- Charlotte, NC Resolution No. 25 2000 Spring NEC 2003 Natl Conv Contract- St. Louis, MO Resolution No. 28 2002 Spring NEC 2004 Natl Conv Contract Corp- Nashville, TN Resolution No. 29 2002 Spring NEC 2005 Natl Conv Contract Corp- Honolulu, HI Resolution No. 29 2003 Spring NEC 2006 Natl Conv Contract- Salt Lake City, UT Resolution No. 24 2004 Spring NEC 2007 Natl Conv Contract- Reno, NV Resolution No. 1 2005 NEC Mail 2006 Natl Conv Dates Amended- Housing Block Contracts- Salt Lake City, UT Resolution No. 32 2005 Spring NEC 2008 Natl Conv Contract Corporation- Phoenix, AZ Resolution No. 38 2006 Spring NEC 2009 Natl Conv Commission- Louisville, KY
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN HEDRICK: This has the approval of the National Convention Commission, your Subcommittee on Resolutions, and I so move for its adoption. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and second to adopt resolution number 15. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried. RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN HEDRICK: Attached to the report Mr. Commander, is Addendum A and Addendum B. I move the action of the National Convention Commission become the action of the National Executive Committee. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and second that addendum A and addendum B become the action of the NEC. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 63 Thank you Chairman Walton. Excellent job. The Chair recognizes Michael Helm, chairman of the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission.
Oral Report: Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission Michael D. Helm, Nebraska, Chairman
Mr. Commander, national officers and members of the NEC. Your VA&R Commission met in headquarters and we considered four resolutions. Of these, two have been forwarded to the NEC for your consideration. The first resolution is The American Legion Position on the VA Strategic Capital Investment Planning (SCIP) program. SCIP is an innovative strategic planning tool designed to focus all capital investments on addressing VA's most critical infrastructure and construction needs to best serve veterans. VA is seeking to maximize its use of facilities through the SCIP program, which replaced the Capital Asset for Realignment for Enhanced Services (CARES) program. The CARES program was supposed to receive a total appropriation of $6.1 billion to implement the six year plan. However, Congress did not appropriate the $1 billion in requested funding annually. Despite the large number of aging facilities, some VA hospitals today are over 60 years old; construction funding has continued to be limited. The resolution urges Congress to provide SCIP with the level of funding necessary over the next 10 years to address the deficiencies and gaps identified by SCIP; request that VA include activation or start up costs in the future SCIP projections, and ask VA to continue to be transparent about SCIP process annually by posting information about projects and costs. The second resolution urges VA to recognize and afford all veterans serving in a combat theater of operations with their earned VA benefits and compensation, without regard to their military job classification. While VA has implemented two initiatives, the five year combat rule for eligibility and relaxing of the PTSD regulations for veterans filing a claim for PTSD, more needs to be done to ensure VHA providers are aware that if that a veteran served in a combat theater, not just in a combat MOS or unit, that they are eligible for these health care and claims programs. Additionally, we urge VA to improve outreach to ensure our newest returning veterans are aware of these programs as they are transitioning. The commission appreciates the attendance of Past National Commander Detweiler and Past National Commander Conley to our meeting. Past National Commander Detweiler presented an update to our members on the progress of the TBI/PTS Ad Hoc Committee. We look forward to working with the committee to assist in these signature wounds of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. During the Washington Conference, VA&R hosted a Women Veterans Survey Press Conference. The survey focused on quality; tangibles; reliability; responsiveness; competence; courtesy; communication; credibility; security; access and understand/knowing the female veteran. Moving forward, VA&R is working with the Magazine Division to highlight each of these areas on the website to solicit additional feedback from our members. The System Worth Saving Program has 44 schedule site visits to VA Medical Centers this year, with 37 having already been completed. Our focuses this year are on seamless transition of care from DoD to VA, traumatic brain injury, and post-traumatic stress. The information we receive from our site visits will be used to assist the TBI/PTS Ad Hoc Committee developed last year. I want to personally thank you, Commander Foster, for joining the System Worth Saving site visit in Anchorage, Alaska on April 16-20. The national commander joined Past National Commander Ron Conley, Jacob B. Gadd, deputy director for healthcare, and Steve Brooks, multimedia director for the Magazine Division. This is the first year that a sitting national commander attended and
64 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 participated with our System Worth Saving site visits. Other System Worth Saving new initiatives include: The DC Media Relations Division is sending media releases to the local catchment areas of the hospitals we visit. This has generated web/print articles and phone and camera interviews to raise awareness of the System Worth Saving program. Legislative is sending letters of invitation to members of Congress. We have already had several staffers attending site visits. Our goal is to share post site visit findings with the member of Congress whose district is within that VA Medical Center. The Magazine Division is creating a Veterans Health Center on the Legion's website which will feature a System Worth Saving site visit calendar and an interactive map of the locations we visit. They also add each of our site visits we conduct on the "What are we doing for you today" portion of the website. The VA recently rebranded its suicide prevention line, which is now called Veterans Crisis Hotline, and that number is 1-800-273-8255. With the increase of military and veteran suicides, we urge VA to continue screening all transitioning servicemembers for PSTD, TBI, depression and substance abuse. We encourage departments to have one Legion volunteer within VA Medical Center Suicide Prevention Offices to get materials and information to the local community. We want all American Legion members to be aware of the hotline and refer veterans in distress to the hotline for assistance. In terms of volunteering, we had close to 944,000 hours of voluntary service in fiscal year 2009. Our goal for this year is our "One Million Volunteer Hours" campaign to reach one million hours of service this year. To do this, we are asking each department to have 20 new volunteers and 2,000 hours added this year I want to recognize the VA&R national staff from D.C. that are here, Verna Jones, director, and Jacob B. Gadd, deputy director of healthcare. (Applause) Mr. Commander, the VA&R Commission looks forward to working with you and the distinguished members of the NEC in forming policies that continue to care for those who shall have borne the battle. This concludes my report.
Advance Report: Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission March 28, 2011 Michael D. Helm, Nebraska, Chairman
I. 2011 Department Service Officers School The first session of the 2011 Department Service Officers School was held at the Renaissance Hotel in Washington, DC, March 16 - March 18, 2011. Approximately 100 Department, State, and County Veteran Service Officers from around the country attended. The curriculum centered on veterans' law issues, including recent decisions by the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims and their impact on the VA's claims adjudication and appeals process. There was a general session with the following speakers: Robert Reynolds, Executive Director, Benefits Assistance Service, Veterans Benefits Administration; Dr. Reuben Wright, Director, Office of Information and Technology, Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Oversight and Compliance; Jamie Sutter, Director, Office of Strategic Planning, Veterans Benefits Administration; Karen Malebranche, Acting Chief Officer for Intergovernmental Affairs, Veterans Health Administration; Patricia Toles Lucas, Suicide Prevention Coordinator, DC VA Medical Center; Deborah Amdur, Chief Consultant, Care Management and Social Work Office, Department of Veterans Affairs, Ian Deplanque, Deputy Director for Legislative Division and Verna Jones, Director of Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Division Additionally, there were three separate tracks during the three-day school period, basic, intermediate and advanced service officers. The National Veterans Legal Service Program (NVLSP) provided the curriculum and facilitated training for both of the intermediate and advanced service officer sessions. The National Association of
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 65 Department Service Officers (NADSO) and National VA&R staff provided the curriculum and facilitated training for the basic service officer session. The next Department Service Officer School will be held in Indianapolis, July 27- July 29, 2011.
II. National Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Conference The 88th Annual Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation (VA&R) Conference was held at the Renaissance Hotel in Washington, D.C. on March 21, 2011. National Commander Jimmie L. Foster (AK) presented The American Legion Volunteer of the Year Award to Ms. Crucelina F. Grabel (AK). Conferees were addressed by the Robert L. Jesse, M.D., PhD, Principal Deputy Under Secretary for Health, Department of Veterans Affairs; Danny Pummill, Deputy Director for Policy and Procedures, Compensation and Pension Service, Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs and Jack O'Connor, Coordinator, Veteran Mentors, Buffalo Treatment Court. A Women Veterans Panel discussed the evolving role of women in the military and was moderated by Brigadier General Peter C. Hinz, Assistant Adjutant General Army, Maryland Army National Guard. Other panelists included: Brigadier General Wilma L. Vaught, USAF (Ret.), President, Women's Memorial Foundation; Command Sergeant Major Frances Rivera, Northern Regional Medical Command, Walter Reed Army Medical Center and L. Tammy Duckworth, Assistant Secretary for Public and Intergovernmental Affairs, Department of Veterans Affairs. In the afternoon, presentations included: Philip Matkovsky, Deputy Chief Business Office for Member Services, Department of Veterans Affairs; Steve L. Muro, Acting Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs, Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Dana Stirk, Deputy Project Manager of Real Warriors Campaign; Dr. Janet Kemp, VA National Suicide Prevention Coordinator; Lucille Beck, PhD., Chief Consultant for Rehabilitation Services, Department of Veterans Affairs and Mary Jo Munnelly, Lead Staff Assistant, VA Voluntary Service Office, Department of Veterans Affairs.
III. Meeting of the National Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission The Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation (VA&R) Commission met on March 23, 2011, in Congressional Hall A, Ballroom Level, Renaissance Hotel, Washington, DC. Previously, the Commission met in Indianapolis, IN, October 11-12, 2010. Commission Chairman Michael D. Helm, (NE) presided. The Commission heard reports from VA&R Committees and updates from the Washington Headquarters staff. Reports received, together with matters considered during this meeting, are as follows:
A.) Report of the Conference Committee on Recommendations No conference recommendations were submitted during this Forty-Eighth Annual Washington Conference.
B.) Report of the Committee on Certificates of Appreciation Your Committee on Certificates of Appreciation met on Monday, March 21, 2011 in the Renaissance Downtown Washington, Congressional Halls A&B, and considered no new nominations for this award. Between the 92nd National Convention Affairs and 2011 National Veterans Affairs Rehabilitation Conference two 5 Certificates was awarded to:
66 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 Clark Dyrud, Commissioner Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MNDVA) Michael Pugliese, Commissioner Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MNDVA)
C.) Report on National American Legion Volunteering Jacob B. Gadd, Deputy Director for Healthcare provided the VA&R Commission with an update on National American Legion Volunteering. During the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission on Monday, March 21, Mary Jo Munnelly, Lead Staff Assistant for the VA Voluntary Service at the Department of Veterans Affairs Central Office provided a presentation and update. The 2011 Priorities of the VA Voluntary Service office are: 1) With patient-centered care in mind, develop volunteer assignments around concierge services; 2) Develop Tools for VAVS to have a standard look to the volunteer folder; 3) Provide opportunities for volunteers to assist in the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA); 4) Develop assignments to support Patient Aligned Care Teams. While The American Legion will support VA's initiatives, our 2011 Legion Goals and Priorities are to: 1) increase the number of new VA Voluntary Service (VAVS) volunteers and increase total hours – One Million Voluntary Service Hours Campaign; 2) Encourage American Legion Departments to nominate a Department Volunteer Coordinator ; 3) Develop an American Legion Suicide Prevention Volunteer Coordinator for every VA Medical Center; 4) Continue to Support volunteer opportunities with Ride to Recovery, Rebuilding Together and Habitat for Humanity. The first American Legion 2011 Volunteer Goal is to increase the number of new VA Voluntary Service (VAVS) volunteers and increase total hours – One Million Voluntary Service Hours Campaign. In 2010, The American Legion had 6,502 volunteers that served 943,829 hours of service in support of the VAVS Program. The total cost savings, based on an independent sector volunteer rate of $20.85 per hour, is $19.6 million. The American Legion increased its volunteer hours from 2009 by 27,231 hours and added 58 new volunteers this year. The VA&R Commission will be launching a "One Million Voluntary Service Hours Campaign" to encourage departments, districts and posts to reach one million hours of service this year. The National VA&R Commission's plan to achieve this milestone is to encourage each American Legion Department to recruit 20 new regularly scheduled volunteers and increase their total volunteer hours from 2009 by 2,000. The second goal is that Departments nominate a Department Volunteer Chairmen, responsible for the overall successful operation of volunteer programs in the state. The Department VAVS Chairman develops and maintains the VAVS Department Points of Contact database including: District Commanders, VA Hospital Representatives and Deputy Representatives and Post VAVS Chairmen ensuring communications at all levels. In addition, the Department Volunteer Coordinator will provide department leadership, districts, posts and members with opportunities to serve in Ride to Recovery (week long cycling program), VA Suicide Prevention and Referral Program, and volunteer programs to support Veteran Housing- Rebuilding Together and Habitat for Humanity. The third goal is to develop an American Legion Suicide Prevention Volunteer Coordinator for every VA Medical Center. Departments will be contacted to encourage a volunteer to register at their local VA Medical Center as the American Legion Suicide Prevention and Referral Assistant Volunteer. These volunteers will help the local VA Medical Center Suicide Prevention Coordinator set up training with state, district and local posts. Additionally the volunteer can distribute Suicide prevention program materials to the Department, District and local posts and encourage veterans in crisis to contact VA's National Suicide Prevention Line- 1 (800) 273- 8255 (TALK).
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 67 The fourth goal is to continue to support volunteer opportunities with Ride to Recovery, Rebuilding Together and Habitat for Humanity. Ride to Recovery provides week long cycling trips with injured service members, veterans in Virginia, California, Texas, Florida and Minnesota to help speed up the recovery and rehabilitation process. Legion riders provide escort for the cyclists and volunteers can assist with ride support and sponsoring lunches and dinners or breaks at local Legion posts. Both Rebuilding Together and Habitat for Humanity are excellent volunteer opportunities for Legionnaires ensure veterans are able to live in quality housing.
D.) Report of The American Legion National Cemetery Committee Members of the VA&R Cemetery Committee met with Steve L. Muro., Acting Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs, on Monday, March 21, 2011, in Congressional Halls A&B, Renaissance Washington, DC Hotel after his presentation to the National Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Conference that focused on the various aspects of the Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration (NCA) program. Currently, the National Cemetery Administration (NCA) maintains 131 National Cemeteries, 3.1 million gravesites, approximately 19,000 total acres. NCA is organized into five Memorial Service Networks located in Philadelphia, PA; Atlanta, GA; Denver, CO; Indianapolis, IN; and Oakland, CA. NCA also has a national office in VA Central Office and a national scheduling and employee training center in St. Louis, MO. Currently, NCA has a total of 1,700 full time equivalents (FTE), with 70.4 percent of their employees that are veterans. This is the highest veteran hiring ranking among any federal agency. Since 2009, NCA has hired 190 Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) veterans. In 2010, NCA performed 111,807 total burials and issued 640 headstones and markers, 4,500 Medallions and 803,675 Presidential Memorial Certificates. Five new state veterans cemeteries were also opened in 2010 to serve veterans in Spokane, WA; Alliance, NE; Ft. Leonard, MO; Greenup, KY; and Springvale, ME. In 2011, 90 percent of all National and State Cemeteries were established in areas of populations of veterans exceeding 170,000, which is the threshold VA has established for new national cemeteries. Future national cemetery sites include: Northwestern NY; East Central, FL; Western, FL; South Central, CO; and Eastern, NE. Future state cemetery construction sites slated to be open in 2011 include: Corpus Christi, TX; Birdeye, AR; Newton, MS; Dublin, VA. In 2012, State Cemeteries will be opened in Leesville, LA and Charleston, WV. In 2011, NCA released results from its American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) survey which found a customer satisfaction index rating of 94 out of 100 points. This is the fourth time that the survey was conducted with past surveys taken in 2001, 2004, 2007. The survey measures customer satisfaction, customer service and user trust. The Cemetery Committee discussed several programs and initiatives, which included: the Burial plot allowance, Arlington National Cemetery, Corey Shea Act and Missing in America Project. The American Legion approved a national resolution in 2010 supporting increases to the burial plot allowance. The Committee also discussed Arlington National Cemetery and how NCA was assisting with training and operations. The Committee then discussed the Corey Shea Act, which authorized VA to extend burial eligibility in VA national cemeteries to parents of certain deceased service members in the same grave with their deceased service member child.
E.) Staff Reports • Verna Jones, Director of VA&R presented with an update on VA's Fiscal Year 2012 Budget. The American Legion National Commander Jimmie L.
68 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 Foster testified before the Joint Congressional Veterans' Affairs Committees last September and clearly outlined the funding requests for VA in FY 2012 and FY 2013. The American Legion supported funding VA health care at $50.2 billion for FY 2012 and we are encouraged by the level of the recently announced budget request of $52.4 billion for discretionary spending presented from the administration to Congress. The American Legion will continue to advocate for full funding of the VA in FY 2012. The National Commander's testimony focused on major portions of the VA budget to include health care, construction, the Veterans Benefit Administration, National Cemetery Administration and both the state veterans' home and cemetery grant programs. In addition, the National Commander emphasized our new initiative to push for improved research efforts regarding Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
On February 2nd and 23rd The American Legion testified on the VA Budget request for Fiscal Year 2012. We believe that the Administration's fiscal year 2012 budget for the Department of Veterans Affairs may be a step in the right direction, but more must be done. The American Legion recommends that the President's budget request for $590 million for Major Construction and $550 million for Minor Construction in FY 2012 be increased to $1.2 billion for Major Construction projects and $800 million for Minor Construction projects. This is to facilitate the much need improvement to the infrastructure of the VA health care system. Access to quality VA healthcare is a benefit earned by generations of honorably discharged American servicemembers and The American Legion continues to call for reinstatement of all priority 8 enrolled veterans in a timely manner. We acknowledge the effort to bring healthcare to some 265,000 previously enrolled veterans begun in 2008 and call for immediate, appropriate action to guarantee access to all veterans. • Travis Murphy, Deputy Director for Claims, VA&R presented updates on Claims Service. The VA&R's Appeals and Special Claims Unit set records in 2010. The number of appeals presented to the Board of Veterans Appeals (BVA) increased dramatically from 2009 and the success rate also improved. During 2010, the BVA made decisions on 9358 American Legion represented appeals with a 73% favorable rating. The VA&R Division has permanent representatives at each Pension Management Center (St. Paul, Philadelphia, and Milwaukee). In addition the VA&R Division continues to have a representative at each of the VA's Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) claims processing centers in Winston-Salem and Salt Lake City. The VA&R Discharge Review Unit continues to provide the bulk of representation before the military's discharge review boards and military records correction boards. Updates were also provided on the VA's "Claims Transformation Plan" designed to meet the Secretary's goal of eliminating the claims backlog and processing all claims within 125 days and with 98 percent accuracy by 2015. This transformation plan is guided by a three prong approach:
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 69 1. First, the VA is focused on creating a CULTURE focused on accountability and advocacy for Veterans; 2. Second, is the REENGENEERING of BUSINESS PROCESSES through collaboration with internal and external stakeholders to continually improve the claims process using best practices and ideas; and 3. Finally, this plan is guided by the rapid deployment of technology and infrastructure to support powerful 21st century IT solutions to create a smart paperless claims system.
Two specific examples of the VA's ongoing initiatives which fit within this framework and the VA feels will make a significant impact are: 1. The nationwide deployment of the Veterans Benefits Management System, VA's new 21st Century claims processing system, which is expected in 2012; and 2. The continued development and use of Disability Benefits Questionnaires which is intended to provide a streamlined method for Veterans to submit medical evidence.
The American Legion will continue to work with the VA and to provide input, offer guidance, and to advocate for the needs of all veterans as the VA moves forward with the transformation process in an effort to eliminate the backlog and improve claim processing time and accuracy. • The Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission's Deputy Director of Health Care, Jacob B. Gadd, presented updates on the System Worth Saving and other healthcare programs of interest. The American Legion's primary health care evaluation tool is the System Worth Saving Program. Designed in 2003 by Past National Commander Ron Conley, the System Worth Saving Task Force conducts site visits at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Facilities nationwide. The reports from these site visits are compiled into a publication which is distributed to the President, Members of Congress, VA Officials and American Legion members.
The mission of the System Worth Saving program is to assess the quality and timeliness of veterans' healthcare and provide feedback from veterans on their level of care. The 2010, the System Worth Saving Program focuses are: 1) Transition of Care from DoD into in the Department of Veterans Affairs, 2) treatments for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and 3) Reaching out to Members that completed the original 2003 "I Am Not a Number" Survey. The task force wants to ask 200 of the 4,000 members that originally took the survey how their care is today. We will feature 22 of these members in the 2011 publication. Currently, there are 44 scheduled site visits this year, 27 of which have already been completed. We have also worked with the Magazine Division to develop a Veterans Health Center on The American Legion's National Website. Currently there is a Veterans Benefits Center but it does not distinguish between veteran's claims and healthcare benefits. An interactive US state map will also be featured in Veterans Health Center which will post information about our site visits and testimonials from veterans that utilize that VA Medical Center for his or her care. The Deputy Director for Healthcare also acknowledged his staff members which included: Denise Williams, Assistant Director for Health Policy, Denise Bullock, Senior
70 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 Field Service Representative, and Field Service Representatives James Woodson, Brian Bertges and Warren Goldstein. The Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission's Assistant Director for Health Policy, Denise Williams, gave an update on Women Veterans Program. The VA & R Division had a Women Veteran's panel with panelist from the Department of Defense, Veterans Affairs and the Civilian Sector. The focus of this year's panel discussion was the evolving role of women in the Military. The panelist included Ms. L. Tammy Duckworth with the Department of Veterans Affairs; BG (Ret) Wilma Vaught with the Women's Memorial; BG Peter C. Hinz with the Mary National Guard and CSM Frances Rivera with Walter Reed Army Medical Center. This topic of discussion is important because women represent one of the fastest growing populations in the Armed Forces. According to the Department of Defense, women have made up approximately eleven percent of the military force in Iraq and Afghanistan over the past six years. Women currently make up approximately twenty percent of the United States Armed Forces and they are now serving in roles that were once filled exclusively by males. More than 200,000 women have served in the current wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and many of them have found themselves in direct ground combat situations, despite policies that the DOD has In place to prevent this. In addition to this, The American legion launched a Women Veterans survey through Prosidian Consulting Group on January 5th 2011. The study involved surveying a sample of 3,012 women veterans in order to better understand their healthcare needs. The survey consisted of sixty-seven (67) questions, designed to measure the following ten attributes of service quality: (1) tangibles, (2) reliability, (3) responsiveness, (4) competence, (5) courtesy, (6) communication, (7) credibility, (8) security, (9) access, and (10) understanding/knowing the customer
The overall findings for each service quality are as follows:
Tangibles: Almost twenty-five percent of the respondents rated the convenience of the location of VA facilities for women-specific issues as poor, indicating that gender- specific care is difficult to obtain for a significant number of women veterans. Reliability: Almost fifty-seven percent of respondents were satisfied with the reliability of healthcare provided by the VA when compared to private healthcare providers. Responsiveness: Over thirty percent of respondents were dissatisfied when they compared the responsiveness of the VA to that of private healthcare providers. This is a theme that occurs throughout the survey results. Competence: Approximately one-fourth of the respondents said they were dissatisfied with the competence demonstrated by VA healthcare providers when compared to private practitioners. Courtesy: With almost one quarter of the respondents rating this attribute as less than positive, courtesy appears to be an important issue for the VA to address. Communication: Approximately thirty percent of the respondents felt that they were not allowed an appropriate amount of time with their provider to discuss their specific health-related issues. Credibility: Between twenty-five percent and forty percent, depending on the question was expressed a high level of dissatisfaction when they were asked to compare the credibility of healthcare provided by the VA with similar services provided by private practitioners. Security: Over twenty-five percent of respondents expressed a level of dissatisfaction for this attribute which suggest that there is considerable room for
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 71 improvement in Security-related issues for the VA, especially in the degree of sensitivity surrounding a patient's personal information. Access: Nearly one third of the respondents stated that they were dissatisfied with their most recent experience with the Women Veterans Program Manager (WVPM), suggesting there is room for significant improvement in the capabilities of the VA to provide gender-specific services Understanding: Only forty-two percent of the respondents were satisfied with their experiences related to the MST screening process. This represents a critical area in which the VA needs to improve its practices in regard to gender-specific services. The results from this survey will be used to strengthen our advocacy role; enhance our written and oral testimonies to Congress and federal agencies, and guide the development and improvement of specific programs. This unprecedented initiative on the American Legion's part is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of our dedication to women veterans. We will continue this effort by working closely with the VA to rectify issues that we highlight in this survey. There being no additional business for the "Good of the Legion," the meeting was adjourned.
Report: Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission May 4-5, 2011 Michael D. Helm, Nebraska, Chairman
The National Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission met on May 2nd – 3rd, 2011, at Headquarters Room 301 for the purpose of considering those matters that had previously been referred for study and to discuss other current matters.
Presiding: Michael D. Helm (NE), Chairman
Present at the meeting were:
Michael D. Helm (NE) Jeffery Saunders (AK) R. Shuford Edmisten (NC) H. Melvin Napier (ID) Don E. Mathis (TN) James H. Hales Jr. (PA) T. Les Galloway (OR)
Also in attendance were Steven Sweet, William Kile (WV), Phil Youngblood (GA), Bob Wallace (WA), Jim Pisa (AK), Tom Mattice (ID), Past National Commander Bill Detweiler (LA) and Past National Commander Ronald F. Conley (PA). Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Division staff members present were: Verna L. Jones (NC), Director and Jacob B. Gadd (DC), Deputy Director for Health Care.
Matters Received, Considered and Acted Upon by the Commission: Resolutions Your Subcommittee considered four (4) resolutions. One (1) resolution was referred for consideration by the 2009 National Convention. One (1) was referred from the Department Executive Committee. Two (2) were forwarded to the National Executive Committee for adoption:
(Origin: VA&R) The American Legion Position on the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Strategic Capital Investment Planning (SCIP) Program
72 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 (Origin: VA&R) Improvements Needed for the Department of Veterans Affairs' Benefits for Veterans Who Have Served in a Combat Theater
The Commission then discussed the following issues:
VA&R Director Update The American Legion's National Commander testified before the Veterans' Affairs Committees last September and clearly outlined the funding requests for VA in FY 2012 and FY 2013. The American Legion supported funding VA health care at $50.2 billion for FY 2012 and we are encouraged by the level of the budget request of $52.4 billion for discretionary spending presented from the administration to Congress. The American Legion will continue to advocate for full funding of the VA in FY 2012. The National Commander's testimony focused on major portions of the VA budget to include health care, construction, the Veterans Benefit Administration, National Cemetery Administration and both the state veterans' home and cemetery grant programs. In addition, the National Commander emphasized our new initiative to push for improved research efforts regarding Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). On February 2nd and 23rd The American Legion testified on the VA Budget request for Fiscal Year 2012. We believe that the Administration's fiscal year 2012 budget for the Department of Veterans Affairs may be a step in the right direction, but more must be done. The American Legion recommends that the President's budget request for $590 million for Major Construction and $550 million for Minor Construction in FY 2012 be increased to $1.2 billion for Major Construction projects and $800 million for Minor Construction projects. This is to facilitate the much needed improvement to the infrastructure of the VA health care system. Access to quality VA healthcare is a benefit earned by generations of honorably discharged American service members and The American Legion continues to call for reinstatement of all priority 8 enrolled veterans in a timely manner. We acknowledge the effort to bring healthcare to some 265,000 previously enrolled veterans begun in 2008 and call for immediate, appropriate action to guarantee access to all veterans.
Women Veterans Survey The American Legion launched a Women Veterans survey through Prosidian Consulting Group on January 5th 2011. The study involved surveying a sample of 3,012 women veterans in order to better understand their healthcare needs. The survey consisted of sixty-seven (67) questions, designed to measure the following ten attributes of service quality: (1) tangibles, (2) reliability, (3) responsiveness, (4) competence, (5) courtesy, (6) communication, (7) credibility, (8) security, (9) access, and (10) understanding/knowing the customer
The overall findings for each service quality are as follows: Tangibles: Almost twenty-five percent of the respondents rated the convenience of the location of VA facilities for women-specific issues as poor, indicating that gender- specific care is difficult to obtain for a significant number of women veterans. Reliability: Almost fifty-seven percent of respondents were satisfied with the reliability of healthcare provided by the VA when compared to private healthcare providers. Responsiveness: Over thirty percent of respondents were dissatisfied when they compared the responsiveness of the VA to that of private healthcare providers. This is a theme that occurs throughout the survey results.
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 73 Competence: Approximately one-fourth of the respondents said they were dissatisfied with the competence demonstrated by VA healthcare providers when compared to private practitioners. Courtesy: With almost one quarter of the respondents rating this attribute as less than positive, courtesy appears to be an important issue for the VA to address. Communication: Approximately thirty percent of the respondents felt that they were not allowed an appropriate amount of time with their provider to discuss their specific health-related issues. Credibility: Between twenty-five percent and forty percent, depending on the question was expressed a high level of dissatisfaction when they were asked to compare the credibility of healthcare provided by the VA with similar services provided by private practitioners. Security: Over twenty-Five percent of respondents expressed a level of dissatisfaction for this attribute which suggest that there is considerable room for improvement in Security-related issues for the VA, especially in the degree of sensitivity surrounding a patient's personal information.
Access: Nearly one third of the respondents stated that they were dissatisfied with their most recent experience with the Women Veterans Program Manager (WVPM), suggesting there is room for significant improvement in the capabilities of the VA to provide gender-specific services Understanding: Only forty-two percent of the respondents were satisfied with their experiences related to the MST screening process. This represents a critical area in which the VA needs to improve its practices in regard to gender-specific services. The results from this survey will be used to strengthen our advocacy role; enhance our written and oral testimonies to Congress and federal agencies, and guide the development and improvement of specific programs. This unprecedented initiative on the American Legion's part is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of our dedication to women veterans. We will continue this effort by working closely with the VA to rectify issues that we highlight in this survey.
Claims Update The VA&R's Appeals and Special Claims Unit set records in 2010. The number of appeals presented to the Board of Veterans Appeals (BVA) increased dramatically from 2009 and the success rate also improved. During 2010, the BVA made decisions on 9,358 American Legion represented appeals with a 73 percent favorable rating. The VA&R Division has permanent representatives at each Pension Management Center (St. Paul, Philadelphia, and Milwaukee). In addition the VA&R Division continues to have a representative at each of the VA's Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) claims processing centers in Winston-Salem and Salt Lake City. The VA&R Discharge Review Unit continues to provide the bulk of representation before the military's discharge review boards and military records correction boards. Updates were also provided on the VA's "Claims Transformation Plan" designed to meet the Secretary's goal of eliminating the claims backlog and processing all claims within 125 days and with 98 percent accuracy by 2015. This transformation plan is guided by a three prong approach: 1. First, the VA is focused on creating a culture focused on accountability and advocacy for Veterans; 2. Second, is the reengineering of business processes through collaboration with internal and external stakeholders to continually improve the claims process using best practices and ideas; and
74 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 3. Finally, this plan is guided by the rapid deployment of technology and infrastructure to support powerful 21st century IT solutions to create a smart paperless claims system. Two specific examples of the VA's ongoing initiatives which fit within this framework and the VA feels will make a significant impact are: 1. The nationwide deployment of the Veterans Benefits Management System, VA's new 21st Century claims processing system, which is expected in 2012; and 2. The continued development and use of Disability Benefits Questionnaires which is intended to provide a streamlined method for Veterans to submit medical evidence. The American Legion will continue to work with the VA and to provide input, offer guidance, and to advocate for the needs of all veterans as the VA moves forward with the transformation process in an effort to eliminate the backlog and improve claim processing time and accuracy.
Traumatic Brain Injury/Post Traumatic Stress Ad Hoc Committee PNC Bill Detweiler, Chairman of the Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)/Post Traumatic Stress (PTS) Ad Hoc Committee provided an update on the activities of the TBI/PTS Ad Hoc Committee. Resolution 13, approved at the 2010 National Executive Committee (NEC), authorized the creation of an Ad Hoc Committee to investigate the existing science and procedures as well as alternative methods for treating TBI/PTS for the purpose of determining if such alternative treatments are practical and efficacious. The committee has held three meetings and conducted two visits to Tampa, FL and Walter Reed Army Medical Center. The committee has had speakers from Department of Defense, Department of Veterans Affairs, Canadian Veterans Healthcare and other outside agencies. The committee continues to review TBI/PTS literature, studies and treatments and has recommended that the committee be reappointed by the National Commander for 2012.
System Worth Saving Update The American Legion's primary health care evaluation tool is the System Worth Saving Program. Designed in 2003 by Past National Commander Ron Conley, the System Worth Saving Task Force conducts site visits at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Facilities nationwide. The reports from these site visits are compiled into a publication which is distributed to the President, Members of Congress, VA Officials and American Legion members. The mission of the System Worth Saving program is to assess the quality and timeliness of veterans' healthcare and provide feedback from veterans on their level of care. The current System Worth Saving Program focuses are: (1) Transition of Care from DoD into the Department of Veterans Affairs, (2) treatments for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and (3) Reaching out to Members that completed the original 2003 "I Am Not a Number" Survey. The System Worth Saving Task Force mailed letters to 309 of the 4,000 members that originally took the survey to ask how their care is today and if it has improved or worsened in any areas. To date, we have received responses from 73 veterans. We will feature ten of these members in the 2011 System Worth Saving publication. Currently, there are 44 scheduled site visits this year, 37 of which have already been completed. The VA&R Division has worked collaboratively with other divisions in the Indianapolis and Washington DC offices with the System Worth Saving program. The Media Relations division has sent media advisories to all of the catchment areas of the VA Medical Centers on the schedule for visitations. This has generated online and
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 75 newspaper articles as well as media interviews with System Worth Saving Task Force Members and National Field Service Representatives. The Legislative Division has mailed letters of invitation to Members of Congress whose district falls in the VA Medical Center's catchment area. In several site visits, we have had participation by a staffer from the office of the Member of Congress. VA&R is also working with the Magazine Division to develop a Veterans Health Center on The American Legion's National Website. Currently there is a Veterans Benefits Center but it does not distinguish between veteran's claims and healthcare benefits. An interactive US state map will also be featured in Veterans Health Center which will post information about our site visits as well as testimonials from veterans that utilize that VA Medical Center for his or her care.
The American Legion Volunteering The Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission (VA&R) Volunteer Goals for 2011 are to: 1) Increase the number of new VA Voluntary Service (VAVS) volunteers and increase total hours by launching a "One Million Voluntary Service Hours Campaign"; 2) Encourage American Legion Departments to nominate a Department Volunteer Coordinator; 3) Develop an American Legion Suicide Prevention Volunteer Coordinator for every VA Medical Center. The first American Legion 2011 Volunteer Goal is to increase the number of new VA Voluntary Service (VAVS) volunteers and increase total hours – One Million Voluntary Service Hours Campaign. In 2010, The American Legion had 6,502 volunteers that served 943,829 hours of service in support of the VAVS Program. The total cost savings, based on an independent sector volunteer rate of $20.85 per hour, is $19.6 million. The American Legion increased its volunteer hours from 2009 by 27,231 hours and added 58 new volunteers this year. The VA&R Commission will be launching a "One Million Voluntary Service Hours Campaign" to encourage departments, districts and posts to reach one million hours of service this year. The National VA&R Commission's plan to achieve this milestone is to encourage each American Legion Department to recruit 20 new regularly scheduled volunteers and increase their total volunteer hours from 2009 by 2,000. The second goal is that Departments nominate a Department Volunteer Chairmen, responsible for the overall successful operation of volunteer programs in the state. The Department VAVS Chairman develops and maintains the VAVS Department Points of Contact database including: District Commanders, VA Hospital Representatives and Deputy Representatives and Post VAVS Chairmen ensuring communications at all levels. In addition, the Department Volunteer Coordinator will provide department leadership, districts, posts and members with opportunities to serve in Ride to Recovery (week long cycling program), VA Suicide Prevention and Referral Program, and volunteer programs to support Veteran Housing- Rebuilding Together and Habitat for Humanity. The third goal is to develop an American Legion Suicide Prevention Volunteer Coordinator for every VA Medical Center. VA recently rebranded its National Suicide Prevention Line and renamed it the "VA Crisis Intervention Hotline." Departments will be contacted to encourage a volunteer to register at their local VA Medical Center as the American Legion Suicide Prevention and Referral Assistant Volunteer. These volunteers will help the local VA Medical Center Suicide Prevention Coordinator set up training with state, district and local posts. Additionally the volunteer can distribute Suicide prevention program materials to the Department, District and local posts and encourage veterans in crisis to contact VA's National Crisis Intervention Line- 1 (800) 273- 8255 (TALK).
76 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 Addendum A: Resolutions Not Approved
Disposed of Administratively Resolution No. 84 (WA) (2009 Natl Conv): Funding for Veterans Service Office at Auburn, Washington
Rejected Register Resolution No. 2648 (FR) (DEC): Oppose Eligibility Requirements of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act 2009
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: Mr. Commander, motion to receive and file the report of Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission, with the exception of two resolutions and one addendum. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion to receive and file the National Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission report. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Resolution No. 35: The American Legion Position on the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Strategic Capital Investment Planning (SCIP) Program Origin: Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission Submitted by: Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission WHEREAS, The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Strategic Capital Investment Planning (SCIP) program is a ten-year capital plan designed to address VA's most critical infrastructure needs within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) and National Cemetery Administration (NCA); and WHEREAS, The SCIP plan evaluated gaps associated with space, access/workload, condition, safety, security, energy and other gap data needing to be reduced with Major Construction, Minor Construction, Non-Recurring Maintenance (NRM), Enhanced-Use Leasing, Sharing, and Other Investments and Disposal; and WHEREAS, The SCIP plan has identified 4,808 capital projects that will be necessary to close gaps over a ten-year period with a cost between $53 and $65 billion with a current facility condition assessment (FCA) deficiency cost of $10 billion; and WHEREAS, The SCIP Plan does not include activation costs for facilities, which include staffing Full-Time Employee Equivalents (FTEE) and office furniture, which will be additional costs incurred by the Veteran Integrated Service Network (VISN), VA Medical Center and allocated by other VA appropriations; and WHEREAS, The Government Accountability Office (GAO) report in January, 2011, Realignment Progressing, but Greater Transparency about Future Priorities is Needed, recommended, "VA annually provide to Congress the full results of its SCIP process and any subsequent capital planning efforts, including details on estimated costs of future projects"; and WHEREAS, Under VA's Capital Asset Realignment for Enhanced Services (CARES) planning process, The American Legion urged Congress to annually appropriate sufficient funds to fund the plan, however, VA was not given the $1 billion appropriation as intended; and WHEREAS, Funding for VA's Major and Minor Construction Programs have been consistently targeted for reductions; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That The American Legion urges Congress to provide increased appropriations annually to address Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Construction deficiencies and gaps
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 77 identified by VA's Strategic Capital Investment Planning (SCIP) program; and, be it further RESOLVED, That VA include activation costs in their future SCIP cost projections and allocations so VA's budget will not have to offset this lack of national funding; and, be it finally RESOLVED, That VA continue to be transparent about SCIP progress by publicly posting information about projects and costs on an annual basis.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBER OWEN: This has the approval of the National Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission, the Subcommittee on Resolutions, and I move for its adoption. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and second to adopt resolution number 35. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Resolution No. 36: Improvements Needed for the Department of Veterans Affairs Benefits for Veterans Who Have Served in a Combat Theater Origin: Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission Submitted by: Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission WHEREAS, In 2008, Public Law 110-181, the "National Defense Authorization Act of 2008" amended Title 38, United States Code (U.S.C.), Section 1710(e)(3), extending the period of eligibility for health care in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for veterans who served in a theater of combat operations after November 11, 1998; and WHEREAS, Military veterans, National Guard and Reserves who served in combat since November 11, 1998, including Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF), Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and was recently expanded by VA to include Operation New Dawn (OND) who are discharged with other than dishonorable conditions are eligible for the "Combat Veteran" Authority; and WHEREAS, Under the VA "Combat Veteran" Authority, veterans receive five-years of enhanced enrollment eligibility for VA health care services and cost-free health care from VA for injuries, illnesses or conditions that related to their service in the theater of operations; and WHEREAS, In 2010, VA issued a new regulation to relax the requirements in filing for a Combat-Related Post Traumatic Stress Disorder VA compensation and pension claim where veterans no longer need to provide documentation to prove they experienced a specific traumatic event; and WHEREAS, Veterans returning from OEF/OIF/OND continue to experience challenges in obtaining their VA health and claims benefits due to their military job classifications as well as lack of awareness of these VA benefits; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That The American Legion urges the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to recognize and afford all veterans serving in a combat theater of operations with their earned VA benefits and compensation, without regard to military job classification; and, be it finally RESOLVED, That VA expand outreach to all veterans serving in a combat theater of operations to ensure they are aware of their earned VA benefits and services.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBER OWEN: This has the approval of the National Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission and the Subcommittee on Resolutions, and I move for its adoption. …Second.
78 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and second to approve resolution number 36. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried. RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBER OWEN: Mr. Commander, there is an addendum A attached to the VA&R Report. I move that the action of the National Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission become the action of the National Executive Committee. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and second that addendum A become the action of the NEC. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried. Thank you, Michael. Excellent job. At this time I call on the national adjutant for any announcements.
Announcements
NATIONAL ADJUTANT WHEELER: Mr. Commander, in accordance with your instruction, I'm pleased to announce that the national headquarters now has Wi-Fi installed in the NEC room, further back by the library, in several conference rooms, and in the cafeteria available for everyone's use who has a laptop here. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Thank you. At this time we will go into recess. We will reconvene precisely at 2:00 p.m. Hand-salute. Two. Thank you. We're in recess until 2:00 p.m. ... At 11:50 a.m., the National Executive Committee stood in recess.
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 79
Wednesday, May 4, 2011 Afternoon Session
...At 2:00p.m, the National Executive Committee was called to order by National Commander Jimmie L. Foster. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: We're back in session. We had a request that there's a lot of buzz in the back of the room there, some people can't hear. So, if you would please be courteous we would deeply appreciate it. And in the earlier roll call, we forgot to recognize one of our own past national commanders. I guess we should have introduced him as the Honorable John Brieden. He was elected as a county judge in Texas. Give him a hand. (Applause) At this time the Chair will recognize Jerry Hedrick. RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN HEDRICK: Thank you, commander. Mr. Commander, we have three resolutions that originated in the Resolution Subcommittee, and I was asked that we report those out this afternoon. Tomorrow some people may leave early, and we wanted everybody to be aware of these.
Resolution No. 41: Rescinding Non-Legislative Resolutions from the Subcommittee on Resolutions Origin: Subcommittee on Resolutions Submitted by: Subcommittee on Resolutions WHEREAS, In accordance with resolutions of the 1959 and 1960 National Conventions, the National Executive Committee, through its Program Study Committee, has caused to be made a review of all non-legislative policy resolutions, and such action has been taken in further conference with the action of the 1936 National Convention which established policy on the life of such resolutions; and WHEREAS, The Subcommittee on Resolutions has concluded an extensive review of National Executive Committee and National Convention resolutions; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4–5, 2011, That the following resolutions be and they are being rescinded for (1) being obsolete, (2) accomplishment of purpose, (3) being superseded by later resolutions, (4) being in conflict with later resolutions, (5) being duplicated by later resolutions, (6) having no value because of later changes in program; or (7) other reasons. Res Year Meeting Title (Brief) Reason No. 108 1919 Natl Conv Alien Agitators 1 88 1920 Natl Conv Failure And Neglect Of The War Department 1 29 1921 Natl Conv Recall Of George Harvey, American Ambassador To 1 Great Britain 243 1922 Natl Conv American Legion Weekly 'Who Got The Money' 1 387 1923 Natl Conv Endorsement Of Reparations Policy Of France 1 538 1933 Natl Conv Memorial Building 1 35 1937 Spring Supreme Court Issue 1 26 1937 Spring Restoration Of Official Records Destroyed 1 8 1942 Fall Removal Of Veterans Records From District Of 1 Columbia 8 1944 Fall Revoke Special Privileges Given War Prisoners 1 349 1944 Natl Conv Howard P Savage 1 13 1945 Fall Major Gen. Claire Chennault 1 62 1945 Fall Names Of Nazi Party Members In The U.S. 1 69 1945 Fall War Criminal Trails 1 136 1946 Spring Trial For General Mihailovich 1
80 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 465 1946 Natl Conv Support Continued Sales Of U.S. Savings Bond 1 121 1946 Spring American Legion Representatives To Agencies Of 1 The United Nations 148 1947 Spring Formation Of A Philippine Legion 1 35 1950 Fall Persecution Of United States Abroad Such As The 1 Robert A. Vogeler Case 4 1951 Fall John Hvasta Be Released From Prison In 1 Czechoslovakia 52 1952 Fall Josephine Baker As An Undesirable Alien 1 70 1953 Spring Amend United States Constitution Regarding 1 Authority Of Treaties 15 1953 Fall The American Legion Be Investigated For 1 Communist Infiltration 37 1955 Fall Congress Appropriate Money For Needed 1 Renovations For Pershing Hall 16 1955 Fall Oppose The Parole Granted General Dietrich 1 62 1958 Spring Wire Tapping 1 55 1967 Spring FBI Appointment Of Director 1 30 1982 Fall Appointment Of A Veterans' Planning And 1 Coordinating Committee 3 1987 Spring Appointment Of A Policy Coordination And Action 1 Group 96 1919 Natl Conv Support Of The Carry-On-Assn 2 16 1920 Natl Conv Thanks And Appreciation Of Franklin D'Olier 2 23 1920 Natl Conv Express To The President Of The United States 2 Profound And Sincere Sympathy 24 1920 Natl Conv Thanks To Mr. Bowman Elder 2 25 1920 Natl Conv Thanks To Dr. T. Victor Keene 2 26 1920 Natl Conv Appreciation Of General Leonard A. Wood 2 27 1920 Natl Conv Express To Community Service, Inc. Its Thanks For 2 Services Of Mr. Russell G. Creviston 28 1920 Natl Conv Express To Mr. George H. Rennick Its Thanks And 2 Appreciation For His Valuable Service 29 1920 Natl Conv Express To Citizens Of Indianapolis, Through Their 2 Mayor And Civic Bodies Its Appreciation 30 1920 Natl Conv Express To The Chamber Of Commerce Of 2 Indianapolis Its Appreciation For The Services 31 1920 Natl Conv Express To Members Of The American Legion In 2 City Of Cleveland And To Citizens And Mr. Chambers And Committee Sincere Appreciation 32 1920 Natl Conv Express To Mr. Walter Myers Its Appreciation For 2 His Valuable Services Thus Rendered 35 1920 Natl Conv Express To Mr. Robert A. Adams, Of Indianapolis, 2 Its Appreciation 69 1920 Natl Conv Thanks For The Service Of The Faithful Direction Of 2 National Chaplain, Reverend Francis A. Kelley 70 1920 Natl Conv Convey Sincere Expression Of Appreciation And 2 Esteem To Robert H. Tyndall 79 1920 Natl Conv Appreciation For Manner Which Lemuel Bolles Has 2 Rendered Services As National Adjutant 80 1920 Natl Conv Appreciation Of General Marie Emile Fayolle 2 82 1920 Natl Conv George D'utassy Thanks And Appreciation 2 87 1920 Natl Conv Thanks People Of France For Their Tender Solitude 2 For The Grave Of The A.E.F Dead 121 1920 Natl Conv Extend Profound Sympathy And Condolence To 2 Relatives Of Miss Armstrong 265 1920 Natl Conv Appreciation Of Admiral Sir Arthur Grant 2 26 1921 Natl Conv Untimely Death Of Frederick W. Galbraith, Jr. 2
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 81 96 1921 Natl Conv Invite The Grand Army Of The Republic, 2 Confederate War Veterans And United Spanish War Veterans As Parade Participants 12 1923 Natl Conv Appreciation To American Newspapers 2 13 1923 Natl Conv Death Of Pres. Harding 2 139 1923 Natl Conv Thanks To Convention City 2 1923 Natl Conv Recognition To Gen Josef Haller 2 380 1923 Natl Conv Death Of J. J. Sherrill 2 234 1923 Natl Conv Appreciation To Consuls 2 430 1923 Natl Conv Thanking Entertainment Committees En Route 2 6 1923 Natl Conv Membership Card System Used In 1923 Be 2 Continued 119 1923 Natl Conv Preservation Of Redwood Forests 2 399 1923 Natl Conv Sending Of Legionaries To Convention 2 416 1923 Natl Conv American Peace Award 2 1 1923 Post Armistice Day Radio Program 2 462 1924 Natl Conv Woodrow Wilson 2 463 1924 Natl Conv Appreciation 2 524 1924 Natl Conv Appreciation 2 123 1924 Natl Conv Commending National Commander 2 345 1926 Natl Conv Appreciation 2 284 1926 Natl Conv Veteran Societies Of Poland, Polish Citizens 2 343 1926 Natl Conv Department Commanders & Adjutants Conference 2 122 1927 Natl Conv Death Of Major General Leonard Wood 2 412 1929 Natl Conv Senator Tyson 2 489 1929 Natl Conv Observe Anniversary Of Death Of Gen. Pulaski 2 9 1929 Winter President's Forceful Presentation 2 514 1929 Natl Conv Visit Of The French Veteran Societies 2 21 1930 Fall Tribute To Dr. Paul Fitzsimmons Eve 2 22 1930 Fall Fidac Tour 2 21 1930 Spring Legion Excursion To Athens, Greece 2 27 1930 Spring Celebration In Greece 2 496 1930 Natl Conv Conduct 2 22 1930 Spring British Empire Service League 2 11 1931 Fall Board Of Supervisors Of Wayne County, Mi 2 685 1931 Natl Conv Major General Clarence R. Edwards 2 10 1931 Fall War Veteran Leprosy Cases 2 442 1932 Natl Conv Appreciation Of Eben Putman 2 449 1932 Natl Conv Consolation Resolution For E.R. Wren, Deceased 2 9 1932 Spring Appreciation To National Broadcasting Company 2 And To Mr. M.H. Aylesworth 10 1932 Spring Thanks To War Policies Commission 2 428 1932 Natl Conv Robert F. Smith 2 12 1933 Fall Appreciation Of Paintings 2 24 1933 Fall Madam Schumann-Heink 2 478 1933 Natl Conv Past National Commander O. L. Bodenhamer 2 C-15 1933 Natl Conv Resolution Of Appreciation (Chicago) 2 27 1933 Fall Outdoor Advertising Association Of America 2 22 1933 Fall Source Records 2 22 1933 Spring Projected Bonus March 2 11 1934 Spring Appreciation To Dr. Wm. J. Mayo And Dr. Charles 2 H. Mayo 1 1934 Fall General Metcalf 2 389 1934 Fall Thanking Chevrolet Motor Company 2 22 1934 Fall Thanking The L. C. Smith And Corona Typewriter 2 10 1934 Spring Appreciation To H.G. Smithy 2 12 1934 Fall Miss Monia Michael 2 2 1934 Pre American Legion Building At Century Of Progress 2
82 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 1 1935 Pre Madame Schumann-Heink Citation 2 28 1935 Spring Appreciation To Dr. C. C. Hawke 2 6 1936 Spring Carewe Pictures Corporation Contract 2 2 1936 Fall Appreciation To Dept Of Dc 2 6 1936 Spring Termination Of Contract 2 243 1936 Natl Conv Delaware Model Crime Laws 2 29 1937 Fall Appreciation To General Henri Gouraud 2 186 1937 Natl Conv Resolution Of Appreciation 2 209 1937 Natl Conv United Confederate Veterans And Grand Army Of 2 The Republic 599 1937 Natl Conv Raymond O. Brackett 2 600 1937 Natl Conv Father Harris Anthony Darche 2 601 1937 Natl Conv William P. Connery, Jr. 2 5 1937 Pre Appreciation To Arthur F. Hall 2 598 1937 Natl Conv Edgar Willima Carruth 2 33 1938 Fall Appreciation To Joseph M. Schenck 2 34 1938 Fall Appreciation To Messrs. Olsen And Johnson 2 250 1938 Natl Conv Appreciation 2 665 1938 Natl Conv Death Of General Westover 2 667 1938 Natl Conv Salvation Army - "Ma" Sheppard 2 668 1938 Natl Conv Death Of Addison L. Spenny 2 664 1938 Natl Conv Congratulations To General Pershing 2 666 1938 Natl Conv Hurricane 2 73 1939 Natl Conv Resolution Of Appreciation 2 218 1940 Natl Conv Appreciation (Massachusetts) 2 219 1940 Natl Conv Ralph T. O'Neal, Past National Commander 2 220 1940 Natl Conv Henry D. Lindsley, Past National Commander 2 676 1940 Natl Conv Appreciation To Henry Ford 2 4 1940 Fall Aid To Destitute Legionnaires 2 23 1940 Fall Personnel For Rearmament Program 2 38 1941 Fall Revenue Derived From Sale Of Poppies By The 2 American Legion Auxiliary 53 1941 Natl Conv Resolution Of Appreciation-City Of Milwaukee 2 54 1941 Natl Conv Memorial Resolution- Ignace Paderenski 2 55 1941 Natl Conv Memorial Resolution- Thomas J. Bannigan 2 52 1941 Spring Memorial Service In Honor Of Veteran Dead 2 Interred In Foreign Countries 426 1941 Natl Conv Endorse Defense Savings Bond Program 2 553 1941 Natl Conv Commend Support Given Defense Program By 2 Motion Picture Industry, Press And Broadcasting Companies 43A 1941 Spring Matters Pertaining To The National Emergency 2 143 1942 Natl Conv Memorial Resolution- Bib Graves (Alabama) 2 37 1942 Natl Conv Memorial Resolution For Edward F. Younger, 2 Selector Of Unknown Soldier 139 1942 Natl Conv Gilbert V. Bettman, Ohio-Memorial Resolution 2 140 1942 Natl Conv George A White, Oregon-Memorial Resolution 2 141 1942 Natl Conv Ernest Ames Robbins, Jr- Memorial Resolution 2 142 1942 Natl Conv Semmes Walmsley, La- Memorial Resolution 2 144 1942 Natl Conv Edward E. Spafford, Past National Commander- 2 Memorial Resolution 145 1942 Natl Conv Convention Resolution Of Appreciation 2 521 1942 Natl Conv Homa L. Morris- Memorial Resolution 2 39 1942 Natl Conv Endorsement Of All Accredited Organizations In The 2 War Effort 3 1942 Fall "Food For Freedom" Plan 2 31 1942 Fall Reaffirmation Of Pledge 2 5 1942 Fall Discrimination Against Veterans 2
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 83 123 1943 Natl Conv Memorial- James A. Drain 2 124 1943 Natl Conv Resolution Of Condolence- Frank E. Samuel 2 125 1943 Natl Conv Resolution Of Appreciation 2 16 1943 Spring Appreciation To War Department 2 20 1943 Natl Conv Commend National Commander For Stand On John 2 L. Lewis And Other Labor Leaders 398 1943 Natl Conv Government Post War Planning Committee Include 2 Veterans 346 1944 Natl Conv Appreciation To William Randolph Hearst 2 110 1944 Natl Conv Howard P. Savage- Memorial Resolution 2 111 1944 Natl Conv Theodore Roosevelt, Jr. - Memorial 2 112 1944 Natl Conv Josephy W. Breene- Memorial 2 113 1944 Natl Conv James R. Mahaffey- Memorial 2 348 1944 Natl Conv Major General Frank Parker 2 6 1944 Fall Observance Of V-E Day 2 21 1944 Natl Conv Tribute To Our Fighting Men 2 116 1944 Natl Conv Bunker Hill Memorial Plan 2 493 1944 Natl Conv Celebration Of "D-Day" 2 142 1945 Natl Conv Appreciation 2 143 1945 Natl Conv Memorial- John R. Ruddick 2 16 1945 Pre General George S. Patton, Jr. 2 17 1945 Fall Bust Of President Truman 2 121 1945 Spring Investigate The Feasibility Of Bringing A Group Of 2 World War Ii Veterans To National HQ 85 1945 Spring Christmas Gifts For Yanks Who Gave 2 137 1946 Natl Conv Appreciation 2 840 1946 Natl Conv Mem Res- General Henri Gouraud 2 841 1946 Natl Conv Mem Resolution- Frank D. Rash 2 1 1946 Pre Gifts To Yanks Who Gave 2 61 1946 Fall 1947 Paris Pilgrimage Committee 2 601 1946 Natl Conv Tribute To Our Victory 2 77 1946 Spring Legion Sponsor Food Packages To Europe 2 90 1947 Natl Conv Mem Res- Robert H Tyndall 2 91 1947 Natl Conv Mem Res-John G Emery 2 676 1947 Natl Conv Albert L. "Ted" Sloan Of Chicago Herald American 2 40 1947 Fall Duplicate Bust Of President Harry S Truman 2 151 1947 Spring Hjr 185 And Hjr 172 2 87 1947 Fall Public Housing Project At Knox Indiana 2 155 1947 Spring Commander Griffith's Pilgrimage To Europe 2 3 1947 Pre California Resolutions 2 123 1947 Spring National Commander Paul Griffith 2 150 1947 Spring Legalize Foreign Departments By Amendments 2 1 1948 Natl Conv Resolution Of Appreciation 2 7 1948 Fall Dividends From Democracy Program 2 186 1949 Natl Conv Resolution Of Appreciation 2 417 1949 Natl Conv Commending Grand Army Of The Republic On Its 2 Last Encampment 638 1949 Natl Conv Commendation To James G Stahlman 2 50 1950 Fall Appreciation To Indiana War Memorial Commission 2 84 1950 Spring Citation For Drew Pearson 2 89 1950 Spring Freedoms Foundation 2 65 1951 Spring Commend National Commander Erle Cocke, Jr. 2 34 1951 Fall James J. Murphy, Jr. Violation Of Hatch Act 2 19 1953 Fall Appreciation To Dr. Garland D. Murphy 2 4 1953 Fall Investigate Red Chinese Atrocities Forcing Germ 2 Warfare "Confessions" 97 1955 Spring Life Membership In Chapel Of Four Chaplains To 2 National Commander, Seaborn P. Collins
84 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 103 1955 Spring Commend President Dwight D. Eisenhower And 2 Senator Walter F. George 6 1958 Pre Appreciation To Morton Downey 2 5 1958 Fall Civil War Centennial 2 60 1960 Spring Appreciation To Mr. Glenn D. Crawford 2 17 1964 Fall Memorial To Late President Herbert Clark Hoover 2 65 1964 Spring Appreciation Residents Of Alaska & California 2 15 1965 Fall Initiate Program Of Assistance To U.S. Efforts In 2 South Vietnam 34 1968 Fall American Legion 50th Anniversary 2 1 1969 Spring President Harry S. Truman On His 85th Birthday 2 59 1971 Spring Appreciation To Mrs. Lenora E. Mcclintock 2 19 1974 Fall Appointment Of Clarence C. Horton 2 20 1974 Fall Appointment Of Donald J. Smith 2 45 1974 Spring Commendation Of Hugh W. Overton 2 40 1975 Spring Frank M. Brandstetter Gift 2 42 1976 Fall Appreciation To Charles E. Mattingly 2 43 1976 Fall Appreciation To Charles W. (Pat) Geile, Jr. 2 44 1976 Fall Appreciation To James R. Wilson, Jr. 2 1 1978 Pre Appointment Of James F. O'neil 2 1 1978 Spring Appreciation To W. Francis (Fran) Polen 2 37 1980 Spring Commendation To Ralph M. Godwin 2 38 1983 Fall Social Security Benefit Disparity 2 19 1985 Fall Writing "History Of The American Legion" 2 37 1989 Fall Investigation Of The Role Of Fema In Disasters 2 44 1989 Spring W.D. "Cuz" Harrell 2 37 1990 Fall Pilgrimage To Pearl Harbor During Week Of 2 December 7, 1991 1 1995 Mail 1995 National Convention 2 50 2006 Fall Appointment Of Herman G. Harrington (Ny) 2 20 Mar-41 Special Annual Spring Meeting Of The NEC 2 2 Mar-65 Special Commending American Legion 2 7 Mar-65 Special Salvation Army 2 1 Mar-69 Special Thanks And Appreciation To The Senate And House 2 Of Representatives 5 Mar-69 Special Response To Communist Attacks In Vietnam 2 106 1919 Natl Conv Condemn Strikes By Policemen, Firemen, And 3 Others Responsible For Protection Of Public 85 1919 Natl Conv Urge Members As Individuals To Assist Authorities 3 In Maintenance Of Law & Order & Suppression Of Riots 417 1923 Natl Conv Permanent Peace 3 494 1928 Natl Conv Mandate 3 540 1933 Natl Conv Buy America 3 5 1942 Spring Observance Of Memorial Day 3 526 1942 Natl Conv Assistance To Veterans And Their Families Of World 3 War II 637 1943 Natl Conv Knowledge Of American Republics 3 28 1945 Fall Definition Of A Gold Star Mother 3 275 1946 Natl Conv Preservation Of WWII Plaques 3 1 1948 Pre Conference Of Commanders And Adjutants 3
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN HEDRICK: It has the approval of your Subcommittee on Resolutions, and I so move for its adoption. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and the second that we adopt resolution 41. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 85 Resolution No. 42: Appointment of a Veterans Policy Oversight Committee Origin: Subcommittee on Resolutions Submitted by: Subcommittee on Resolutions WHEREAS, Veterans and their families deserve strong support from this nation in terms of securing and protecting the earned benefits that result from military service; and WHEREAS, The American Legion is committed to the rehabilitation of veterans who require physical, mental or economic assistance, and to the preservation of the dignity of the individual if he or she cannot be rehabilitated; and WHEREAS, There exists within The American Legion a need for greater perspective to plan and coordinate our efforts and our programs to meet the immediate and future challenges that exist now or may exist in the future in the areas mentioned herein above; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That the National Commander is authorized and directed to appoint a Veterans Policy Oversight Committee (VPOC), of not more than ten (10) members and such number of consultants as he shall determine necessary; and, be it further RESOLVED, That the chairman of this committee shall be the National Commander or his designee and shall include in its membership the chairman of the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission, the chairman of the National Security Commission, and the chairman of the Economic Commission; and, be it further RESOLVED, That the remaining members, as appointed by the National Commander, serve one year terms; and, be it further RESOLVED, That this committee be charged with the responsibility of reviewing evolving issues in the arena of veterans policy and providing recommendations as to the direction of the organization in addressing and resolving these issues; and, be it finally RESOLVED, That the National Commander may make a report to the National Executive Committee or the National Convention concerning the findings and recommendations of the VPOC whenever he deems it advisable.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN HEDRICK: This has the approval of your Subcommittee on Resolutions, and commander, I move for its approval. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and the second. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried. Now, with the passing of resolution number 42, I recommend that these following members be appointed for a one year term of office to the Veterans Policy Oversight Committee. Chairman: National Commander Jimmie Foster, Alaska; Members: Economic Commission Chairman Harold Dale Barnett, Georgia; Department Service Officer John W. Hickey, Jr., Indiana; National Security Commission Chairman G. Michael Schlee, Maryland; Past National Commander Robert W. Spanogle, Michigan; Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission Chairman Michael D. Helm, Nebraska; Linda Bomberger, Nebraska; Past National Commander Ronald F. Conley, Pennsylvania; National Vice Commander William F. Schrier, Washington; National Executive Committeeman William W. Kile, West Virginia. Consultants: William J. Haynes, II, California; Dr. Kenneth W. Kizer, California; Dr. Omega C. Logan Silva, District of Columbia; Past National Commander David K. Rehbein, Iowa; Past National Commander Paul A. Morin, Massachusetts; William M. Diefenderfer, III, Virginia; Lt. General Michael Rochelle, Virginia.
86 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: Mr. Commander, motion to approve the appointment of those members to that committee. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and the second that my recommended list that I just read be approved. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Resolution No. 43: Centennial Task Force for the Future Origin: Subcommittee on Resolutions Submitted by: Subcommittee on Resolutions WHEREAS, The programs and activities of The American Legion touch many aspects of American life, as can be seen in the Preamble to our Constitution and our Four Pillars; and WHEREAS, It is important to anticipate how changes in our organization could better serve veterans, youth, and our nation; and WHEREAS, In conjunction with the 50th Anniversary of The American Legion, the Task Force for the Future presented a report to the 51st National Convention in 1969, with the goal of preparing the organization for its second half-century; and WHEREAS, As The American Legion approaches its 100th Anniversary it is an appropriate time to examine the organization and chart a course for the future; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By The National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That The American Legion create the Centennial Task Force for the Future to examine the current structure and operations of the national organization with particular reference to the commissions, committees, councils, boards, and similar bodies, their duties, programs, responsibilities, and authorities, and making suitable recommendations to the National Executive Committee for the improvement thereof; and, be it further RESOLVED, That the National Commander be authorized to appoint members, with the approval of the National Executive Committee, to serve on said task force until delivery of its final report at the 2013 Pre-Convention meeting of the National Executive Committee; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a serving National Commander may replace appointed members as determined necessary, provided that the National Executive Committee shall approve such appointments; and, be it further RESOLVED, That the National Adjutant make such staff, as may be necessary, available to work with the task force for the purposes of research and assistance; and, be it finally RESOLVED, That the Centennial Task Force for the Future shall make its initial report at the May 2012 meeting of the National Executive Committee.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN HEDRICK: This has the approval of your Resolutions Subcommittee, and I so move for its approval. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and the second to approve resolution 43. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried. After the approval of resolution 43, I make the following recommendations to the Centennial Task Force for the Future: Kenneth D. Danilson, Iowa, Chairman; Paul A. Morin, Massachusetts, Vice Chairman. Richard W. Anderson, Connecticut; Charles R. Knox, Georgia; Larry J. Besson, Illinois; Patrick W. Lafferty, Michigan; Robert W. Spanogle, Michigan; Joseph J. Frank, Missouri; Roger Hight, Ohio; Ronald F. Conley, Pennsylvania; Jerry L. Hedrick, North Carolina.
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 87 RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: Mr. Commander, I make a motion to approve those appointments. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and the second that my recommended list that I just read be approved. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried. Thank you. Now, we will recognize Randall Fisher from Kentucky, chairman of the Foreign Relations Commission.
Oral Report: Foreign Relations Commission Randall Fisher, Kentucky, Chairman
Thank you, Commander. Good afternoon. National Commander Foster, members of the National Executive Committee, fellow Legionnaires. You have a copy of the Foreign Relations Commission written report before you. The commission met on Monday to review two resolutions and discuss current foreign policy issues pertaining to the vital interests of the United States. The commission proceeded by evaluating two resolutions. The first was a resolution to rescind 29 obsolete resolutions dealing with foreign relations. The second was a POW/MIA accounting policy resolution that would allow The American Legion to support using all modern forensic technologies in accounting efforts for American soldiers from all conflicts on every continent. The commission also examined eleven existing resolutions of similar intent with other resolutions for the purpose of rescinding these resolutions and replacing them with all encompassing resolutions that will supersede, and include the purpose of each of the current resolutions. Assistant Director Freddy Gessner gave an in-depth report on recent events in nations that are of interest to The American Legion, covering not only the present day significance, but also the history behind each of those events. Highlights from the report include a summary of a recent meeting with the White House national security staff regarding reopening talks with North Korea regarding accounting efforts of the more than 8,000 American soldiers who remain missing in action north of the Korean DMZ. Mr. Gessner wrapped up his presentation with a recount of the current state of the U.S. dollar in comparison to the rising value of China's economy. The commission discussed the recent predictions that China may become the world's strongest economy by 2016, to include how this prediction came to be and steps that should be taken in order to keep our nation as the world's strongest economy. Yesterday, the National Security and Foreign Relations Commissions together traveled to Camp Atterbury by invitation from Major General R. Martin Umbarger. Camp Atterbury is a force protection post that certifies and trains National Guard units from 18 states in partnership with the 1st Army. The visit featured briefings on the mobilizations of National Guard units prior to being deployed to combat zones. The commissions were also provided a briefing on a program the post sponsors to assist troubled youths who are changing their course of life and joining the military for a better future. We would like to thank Past National Commander Bob Spanogle for setting up the tour of Camp Atterbury. I would like to introduce Director Barry Searle, and Assistant Director Freddy Gessner from Washington, D.C. (Applause) The Foreign Relations Commission looks forward to working with National Commander Foster and distinguished members of the National Executive Committee in preparation for the National Convention. We thank you for your support, and commander, this concludes my report.
88 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 Advance Report: Foreign Relations Commission March 21 – March 23, 2011 Randall Fisher, Kentucky, Chairman
The Foreign Relations Commission met in a joint session along with the National Security Commission on March 21st and convened for its business session on March 23rd during the 51st annual Washington Conference at the Renaissance Hotel, Washington, D.C. The following is a summary of those sessions: Morning Joint Session, March 1st The Foreign Relations Commission met in a joint session with the National Security Commission. The commissions were honored to welcome National Commander Jimmie Foster, Past National Commander (PNC) Clarence Bacon, and PNC David Rehbein, and PNC Clarence Hill. The Joint Session included presentations by eight guest speakers: Dan Larsen, Deputy Director of the Office of Korean Affairs, U.S. Department of State; Kathryn Condon, Executive Director, Arlington National Cemetery; Dr. Ken Gabriel, Deputy Director, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA ); Colonel Geoffrey Ling, Defense Sciences Office Program Manager; and including the members of the Joint Military Panel: Technical Sergeant Danekia L. Wells, U.S. Air Force; Sergeant First Class Paul Hertig; HM1 Tyron Hodges, U.S. Navy; and Gunnery Sergeant Samantha Vann, U.S. Marine Corps. Mr. Larsen began the session by taking a moment to honor the sacrifice of the fallen men and women of the United States, the Republic of Korea as well as those of the United Nations during and since the Korean War. He said, "Those standing watch today are part of a long and proud line of people who have worked for the last 6 decades to help protect the Republic of Korea." Mr. Larsen gave an overview of the economic and political landscapes of the Republic of Korea and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). He explained how South Korea ranks as the 14th-largest economy in the world and is the US's 7th largest trading partner as a result of the Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement. However, he reported, that the North Korean economic system remains closed and troubled. In terms of the political realms on the peninsula, the U.S. State Department views South Korea as positive force. The country's democratic government is place and thriving. Mr. Larsen said, "The ROK has arrived on the World Stage." Mr. Larsen continued by reminding the Joint Session of the regional threat that is still being perpetuated by DPRK. North Korea continues to pose a conventional threat to Seoul and continues its nuclear program and remains a proliferation threat. The Taepo- dong 2 launches triggered United Nations Resolutions. North Korea conducted two announced nuclear Tests: in October 2006 and May 2009. Furthermore, he discussed how the North Koreans sunk a South Korean Navy Ship "the Cheonan" on March 26, 2010 which killed 46 sailors and lastly the Nov. 23, 2010 Yong P'yong Do bombing in which two South Korean Marines and two civilians were killed. Mr. Larsen said that the U.S. is maintaining targeted financial sanctions aimed at leadership assets and illicit activities and that these sanctions are working. A U.S. Military exercise in the region continues to add strength to the U.S. diplomacy strategy. He concluded by stating that the complete and irreversible denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, ending human rights abuses by North Korea, and supporting North- South dialogue and cooperation remain important challenges that need to be met. Ms. Condon took the stage and told the commission members that a new system is in place to ensure Arlington National Cemetery is a venue fitting to provide eternal rest for our nation's venerable heroes. Ms. Condon discussed the past mismanagement of Arlington and how it has caused great distress. But now, changes have been made.
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 89 Ms. Condon stated that there is no longer any doubt about who is in charge because the Secretary of the Army John McHugh created the executive director position and this has made Ms. Condon a "direct report" to him personally. The secretary also named a new superintendent, Pat Hallinan. In the last 10 months, she said, we have resolved most of the issues. In that process, however, she has also uncovered additional problems at Arlington but promises that she'll address them, fix them and move forward. Moving forward includes increasing the number of cemetery employees, adding comprehensive training programs for employees, implementing the cemetery's consolidated call center with a toll free number (877-907-8585); and upcoming plans to implement total digital GPS-mapping of Arlington. Dr. Gabriel and Colonel Ling presented the DARPA presentation. Dr. Gabriel began by giving a brief overview of DARP's history. The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) was established in 1958 to prevent strategic surprise from negatively impacting U.S. national security and create strategic surprise for U.S. adversaries by maintaining the technological superiority of the U.S. military. To fulfill its mission, the Agency relies on diverse performers to apply multi-disciplinary approaches to both advance knowledge through basic research and create innovative technologies that address current practical problems through applied research. DARPA's scientific investigations span the gamut from laboratory efforts to the creation of full-scale technology demonstrations in the fields of biology, medicine, computer science, chemistry, physics, engineering, mathematics, material sciences, social sciences, neurosciences, and more. As the DOD's primary innovation engine, DARPA undertakes projects that are finite in duration but that create lasting revolutionary change. Colonel Ling concluded the DARPA segment of the program by describing DARPA's newly developed Blast Dosimeter System technology, known as "BDI." The wound most characteristic of soldiers who have been deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan is traumatic brain injury (TBI). Sudden attacks from weapons such as improvised explosive devices (IEDs) , grenades and roadside bombs have been frequent occurrences during the war and have caused much damage to the brains of soldiers. Many affected by these types of explosions are unaware of the severity of the trauma, and it is possible for TBI to go undiagnosed long after they return home. Under one of its programs, Colonel Ling explained, DARPA has devised a way to record the intensity of an explosion that a soldier will experience during an attack by applying a small, rectangular blast dosimeter to his/her helmet. The objective of this technology is to produce an inexpensive, disposable, very lightweight blast dosimeter to measure the phenomenology associated with repeated exposure to blast events. The diagnosis and treatment of TBI can be greatly improved by the implementation of this technology. The Joint Session was brought to a close with the Military Joint Panel. All of the members of the Military Joint Panel have, at one time or another, deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan or both. Barry Searle, National Security / Foreign Relations Division Director served as the panel moderator. Mr. Searle began the discussion by asking the panel if women in the military should be permitted to train and serve in combat-arms military occupational specialties (MOSs). The panel expressed a consensus that in the current theater, women are already performing combat roles due to the requirements of mission dictated by the need to respect local cultures' sensitivity to male/female interactions. In other words, having a male soldier search a local female civilian for explosives after a raid would not improve fragile relations between the U.S. military and local civilian leaders and elders; an integral part in the strategy to win hearts and minds. The panel also addressed the controversial decision to repeal the Defense Department policy known as "Don't ask, don't tell" thereby allowing homosexuals to serve openly. The panel acknowledged that each of them know that they already serve
90 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 alongside homosexuals and do not foresee any real difference when the change takes effect. One member explained that the word "openly" needs to be better defined in terms of military service because fellow military members, she explained, do not expect any change in military standards due to the new policy. However, there were concerns among the military panel after some discussion. One member discussed concerns over individuals joining the service and deliberately violating the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) to make a political statement while using the umbrella of political correctness for protection. The service member was also concerned about senior leadership not supporting company-level officers if legitimate concerns over violations to the UCMJ-having nothing to do with sexual orientation-are outweighed by political and professional advancement considerations. The panel wrapped up the session by communicating their biggest challenges: balancing service and family time; threats of government shutdowns impacting military pay; the smooth transfer of family TRICARE benefits and care during duty station changes; spouse employment; adequate child care; waiting periods for on-post housing; shortfalls in military clothing supply; and the successful programs helping troops vote for political candidates during deployments overseas. The panelists agreed that they did not have any problem casting their votes from Iraq or Afghanistan. However, they concurred, that the real issue is trying to convince the junior NCOs and lower enlisted to take time out to vote in the first place. PNC Bacon contributed to the discussion by describing the Operation Comfort Warrior Program, Heroes to Hometown Program, and The American Legion's regular visits to Walter Reed Army Medical Center. He told the members on the panel that, "all sorts of support is available from The American Legion. Be sure to take this message back to all of your units." Afternoon Joint Session / POW/MIA Update, March 21st The expert panel on the POW/MIA issues was comprised of Johnie Webb, Deputy to the Commander for Public Relations and Legislative Affairs, Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC) and Ruben Caudle, Stony Beach Program Manager, Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA). The discussion revolved around the construction of a new $100 million headquarters and lab for identification of American dead from past wars. The National Defense Authorization Act states that JPAC will increase the number of remains account for to 200 persons per year by 2015. However, this goal is currently unattainable due to Congress not passing a 2011 budget or passing a continuing resolution for 2012. The Defense Authorization Act calls for increased funding, increasing the number for JPAC personnel, and consolidating all JPAC operations into a single all-encompassing facility located at Hickam Air Force Base. The remains of more than 80,000 American soldiers are unaccounted for worldwide with the majority of over 74,000 missing throughout Europe. In order to increase the number of accounted for personnel each year JPAC will use their 2012 budget to increase accounting efforts in Europe. Another reason for increased efforts in Europe are the difficulties in accounting in Southeast Asia to include the harsh terrain and weather conditions in jungles and mountains in Vietnam which allow only a 90-day window to conduct accounting operations as well as the ending of diplomatic relations with North Korea. Members of the audience were very interested to hear about Stony Beach's efforts in Southeastern Asian countries bordering Vietnam. These countries such as Cambodia allow unrestricted accounting through surveying and interviewing villagers along the border of Vietnam. This unrestricted accounting allows researchers to gain experience in anthropology that cannot be gained through classroom training alone. In the past, the retention of scientists at JPAC has been negatively affected by the high cost of living in Hawaii and the distance living there places between the employees
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 91 and their families living stateside. The solution JPAC came up with is the JPAC Forensic Science Academy. The academy is a program in which graduate level students can attend for real world training that also grants one graduate level college credit. The benefit to the program for JPAC is the program includes a six-week recovery operation in Laos and Vietnam. This allows JPAC to get to know the students and watch how they perform in the field. This year JPAC received 26 applications from students who attended the program for six open positions. This means JPAC is now receiving the best and brightest graduates who are now joining with a full understanding of what employment with JPAC means. Wednesday Session (Business Meeting) March 3rd Foreign Relations Commission Chairman Randall Fisher led commission led the business session in three sections: 1) the proposed combination of several resolutions with legislative intent; 2) the proposed resolution to rescind 48 non-legislative resolutions, reducing the total number down from 65 to 17; and 3) a power point presentation and discussion on U.S. Federal Budget and U.S. Foreign Aid led by Freddy Gessner, Assistant Director, National Security / Foreign Relations Division. The Foreign Relations commission reviewed a proposal to reduce the number of resolutions with legislative intent by combining several with similar purpose and language reducing the total number from 33 to 25. The commission agreed with the proposal and agreed that future resolutions should be comprehensive in nature to prevent redundancy. They should also be clear but allow broad interpretation that will allow staff the ability to perform their duties more effectively. The proposed resolution to rescind 48 non-legislative resolutions, reducing the total number from 65 to 17 is the result of an effort by National Headquarters to reduce The American Legion's total number of non-legislative resolutions. The commission agreed that the listed resolutions should be rescinded due to being outdated and no longer needed. The commission agreed to look forward to creating fewer resolutions that will provide the commission with a clearer focus. Mr. Gessner proceeded by giving a presentation encompassing the FY 2012 Foreign Relations Budget Recommendations. The presentation included figures from the FY 2011 estimated figures from the continuing resolution that was passed from the FY 2010 budget. Serious efforts to improving critical world situation through vigorous and through diplomacy are vital to the peace and security of the United States and the world. Given the current state of the world, America needs to take actions that emphasize its wish to build new and meaningful international relationships which promote peace, justice, and democracy. This is the mission of the Department of State (DoS). The government's long arm for peace deserves adequate funding by congress passing a FY 2012 budget that provides the DoS the means to maintain stability and promote the interest of America in countries that have been altered by our military actions. Following military operations the DoS becomes this nation's initial deterrent to international threats. The DoS also creates markets in foreign countries that may create jobs in America by opening trade. It is on this basis that The American Legion will continue to support the full funding of DoS programs such as USAID who provide solutions in foreign countries that enhance America's national security.
Report: Foreign Relations Commission May 4-5, 2011 Randall Fisher, Kentucky, Chairman
An executive session of the Foreign Relations Commission met on May 2, 2011 in the Circle West Suite of the Sheraton Hotel to discuss current foreign policy issues pertaining to the vital interests of the United States and to review two resolutions.
92 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 Randall Fisher, Chairman of the Foreign Relations Commission, opened the business session and welcomed attending members of the commission, members of the committee, and past national commanders. The commission proceeded by evaluating the following three resolutions: 1) Rescinding Obsolete Resolutions Dealing with Foreign Relations; 2) POW/MIA Accounting Policies; and 3) Women's Rights in Africa. After the commission conducted a thorough analysis of each proposed resolution and engaged in lively discussion on the issues at hand, the commission reached a consensus and made unanimous recommendations to the National Executive Committee (NEC) to recommend all three of the resolutions. The business meeting also included a foreign relations report by Mr. Freddy Gessner. His presentation began with a review of resolutions with legislative intent that have similar intent. The commission decided that the course of action to be taken regarding these resolutions would be to rescind the current resolutions and produce a superseding resolution that would be voted on during the 2011 National Convention. Additionally, the presentation included a recount of the meeting that took place on Friday April 30, 2011 with the foreign relations division and the White House's National Security Staff regarding reopening talks with North Korea regarding reinvigorating accounting efforts of the more than 8,000 American troops who remain missing in action north of the Korean DMZ. Mr. Gessner wrapped up his presentation with a recount of the current state of the U.S. dollar in comparison to the rising value of China's economy. The commission discussed the recent prediction of China passing the U.S. with the strongest economy by the end of 2016. A lively discussion of what changes in our economy are causing this to occur and what can be done to reverse the trend of the declining value of the dollar. On Tuesday, May 3rd the Foreign Relations and National Security Commissions together participated in a joint trip to Camp Atterbury by invitation from Major General R. Martin Umbarger, Joint Forces Headquarters. Camp Atterbury is a force protection post that certifies and trains National Guard units from 18 states in partnership with 1st Army. The visit featured National Guard briefings on the mobilizations (training and certification) of National Guard units who are being deployed to combat zones. The Foreign Relations Commission looks forward to working with National Commander Foster and the distinguished members of the National Executive Committee in preparation for the National Convention. We thank you for your support.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: Mr. Commander, I make a motion to receive and file the report of Foreign Relations Commission, with the exception of two resolutions. There are no addenda. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and the second to receive and file the Foreign Relations Commission report. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Resolution No. 18: POW/MIA Accounting Policies Origin: Foreign Relations Commission Submitted by: Foreign Relations Commission WHEREAS, Many Americans remain missing in action or otherwise unaccounted for from America's past foreign wars and conflicts, and reports indicate that in former enemy areas where Americans could still be alive, information has been deliberately and cruelly withheld; and WHEREAS, The families of POW/MIA suffer untold grief and uncertainty due to the lack of any accurate accounting, often in spite of the heroic efforts of US search teams; and
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 93 WHEREAS, Advancements in science and forensic technology have caused specific locations of alleged remains of US servicemembers to be recently identified by the US Government; and WHEREAS, New and promising identification techniques involving radiographic comparison and facial superimposition have drastically increased our ability to identify servicemen for whom DNA matching is not an alternative; and WHEREAS, The American Legion advocates for the full accounting of missing Americans, in every country, on every continent; and WHEREAS, The American Legion believes US Government POW/MIA operations are inadequate, and the President's normalization of relations with countries known to withhold information pertaining to American POWs has not achieved substantial progress; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By The National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana on May 4-5, 2011, That The American Legion urges the President and the Congress to support legislation and policies that will use all reasonable resources to achieve the fullest possible accounting of all missing American service members regardless of location or era of loss.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBER SCHMIDT: This has the approval of your Foreign Relations Commission, your Subcommittee on Resolutions, therefore, I move for its adoption. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and the second to approve resolution 18. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Resolution No. 19: Rescinding Obsolete Resolutions Dealing with Foreign Relations Origin: Foreign Relations Commission Submitted by: Foreign Relations Commission WHEREAS, Resolution No. 111 adopted by the 18th National Convention specifies that policy resolutions shall remain in effect indefinitely unless "changed by subsequent Convention action or by action of the National Executive Committee"; and WHEREAS, Resolution No. 759 adopted by the 30th National Convention specifies that legislative resolutions expire at the end of each congress, except those adopted at the National Convention or National Executive Committee immediately preceding the convening of a new congress" are effective until it adjourns; and WHEREAS, The Foreign Relations Division has completed a review of all foreign relations resolutions in order to keep them current and accurate; now, therefore be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana on May 4-5, 2011, That the following foreign relations resolutions are rescinded by reason of: being obsolete; accomplishment of purpose; being superseded by later resolutions; being in conflict with later resolutions; being duplicated by later resolutions, having no value because of later changes in program; and for other reasons.
Number Year Occurrence Title 16 1978 Fall The Chapin Foundation Gift 399 1978 Convention Cuba 38 1980 Fall Commendations To U.S. Congressional Report on Southern Africa 726 1980 Convention Asking the Congress To Stop The Flow of United States Military Technology to the Soviet Union 32 1980 Spring Western Hemisphere Task Force 503 1982 Convention Middle East
94 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 306 1983 Convention Mainland China 482 1983 Convention The Information War 10 1984 Spring Western Hemisphere Task Force 428 1985 Convention Relations With The Republic of China (Taiwan) 417 1986 Convention Foreign Aid 532 1986 Convention Presidential Military Initiatives to Protect U.S. National Interests 66 1987 Convention Testing of Anti-Ballistic Missile Components 23 1989 Fall Contraband Drugs 29 1990 Convention America's Future 438 1990 Convention Soviet Imperialism 164 1991 Convention Removal of Saddam Hussein 183 1991 Convention Voice of America 50 1992 Convention Information Activities 57 1992 Convention Control of Military Technology 65 1992 Convention Military Sales to Communist China 68 1992 Convention South Africa 74 1992 Convention Panama Canal 210 1992 Convention Iraqi War Crimes 214 1992 Convention Nuclear Proliferation 217 1992 Convention America's Future 218 1992 Convention Relations with the Former Soviet Union 288 1992 Convention Enterprise for the Americas Initiative 35 1994 Convention Cuba
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBER SCHMIDT: This resolution has the approval of the Foreign Relations Commission and approval of your Resolutions Subcommittee, therefore, I move for its adoption. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and the second to approve resolution 19. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried. Thank you, Randy. At this time we recognize Dennis Henkemeyer, chairman of The American Legion Magazine Commission.
Oral Report: The American Legion Magazine Commission Dennis J. Henkemeyer, Minnesota, Chairman
Thank you, Commander Foster, Adjutant Wheeler, national officers, members of the National Executive Committee, Legionnaires one and all. You have my written report before you so I will not go into great detail here. The American Legion Magazine Division produces the nation's largest veterans organization magazine, a fast growing website, and multiple other electronic media products along with the Dispatch, the National Convention program and other publications, and stands with a budget surplus of just over $333,000 after the first quarter of 2011. Print advertising sales continue to slide, and are 13.72 percent pages off budget through the first quarter. The reciprocal reduction of production and distribution costs of not printing those pages, however, is the primary basis for the surplus. An increase of 1.5 percent in postage, and $2.00 per hundredweight in paper stock will raise monthly costs of the magazine's production and distribution by about $19,000 through the remainder of the year. These increases are lower than actually were expected. Electronic media advertising sales has been strong and well above budget through the first quarter, helped greatly by the USAA business. USAA, likewise, is very pleased with the response to their advertising, and recently booked placement through the remainder of this year. Most important, the staff is working hard every day to use every
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 95 available media channel to effectively deliver The American Legion message to as many people as possible. The American Legion Magazine Division delivers a message few mainstream media channels address. Too often, the mainstream media are trained on what's wrong about America. The American Legion Magazine, while it does critically analyze many national and global issues, is also charged with providing the nation's greatest voice of patriotic values. With that said, Mr. Commander, I request permission of the NEC to recognize on behalf of The American Legion Magazine Commission, Mr. Bill Christoffersen of Utah. I would be honored, Mr. Commander, to have you join me in a presentation of this certificate. Bill. ...At this time National Vice Commander Orria-Medina assumed the Chair. If I may, at this time, I would like to read the certificate itself. It reads: "My America. Special recognition to William E. Christoffersen, National Executive Committeeman, Department the Utah, May 4, 2011. At a time when mainstream media seem uninterested in patriotism, The American Legion is duty bound to give voice to those who believe in what's right about America. Such was the thinking of American Legion National Executive Committeeman, William E. Christoffersen, who urged the resurrection of an American Legion Magazine series featuring notable U.S. figures and their love of country. The "My America" series which debuted in March 2011, portrays the United States as a nation of hope, opportunity and freedom. America's veterans know such values are worth fighting for. It is with great appreciation that The American Legion Magazine Commission recognizes William E. Christoffersen for suggesting such a meaningful contribution to the pages of the magazine for a strong America." And it's signed by Dennis J. Henkemeyer, chairman, The American Legion Magazine Commission. (Applause) NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBER CHRISTOFFERSEN (UT): All I can tell you is thank you very much. I'm speechless. On the other side of the coin, our news media, all they ever print is negative. We need to let our young people know that there are some positive things in this country also. Thank you very much. (Applause) COMMISSION CHAIRMAN HENKEMEYER: Commander Foster and members of the NEC, that concludes my report. And on behalf of the Magazine Commission, I thank the NEC and National Commander Foster for your continued support of our work. Thank you. ... At this time National Commander Foster resumed the Chair.
Report: The American Legion Magazine Commission May 3, 2011 Dennis J. Henkemeyer, Minnesota, Chairman
The American Legion Magazine Division has a $333,626 budget surplus with three months of 2011 in the books. Print advertising sales, however, continue to lag, closely matching industry trends over the last three and a half years. Through the first quarter of 2011, the magazine published 13.72 fewer ad pages than budgeted and 16 fewer pages overall. Advertising on the Legion website, in the American Legion Online Update and the national Dispatch newspaper are all ahead of last year and collectively above budget, thanks largely to new business from USAA. The lagging economy, however, has delayed payments and lengthened terms for many traditional advertisers in 2011. A Chapter 11 bankruptcy for ads placed in late 2010 will force the magazine division to write off $155,013 in sales in 2011.
96 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 Postage costs for the magazine increased 1.5 percent on April 17, raising the cost per-issue by about $7,000. This increase, however, was lower than the expected 4 percent budgeted. A $2 per hundredweight increase in the price for paper stock has been announced and will increase cost by about $12,000 per issue. Overall, the division is maintaining financial balance and stability through an unpredictable time of evolution for all media. Significantly, traffic to the website continues to grow, and the division is moving Legion communications forward quickly and effectively with its electronic media program. On behalf of The American Legion Magazine Commission, I wish to thank the National Executive Committee for its guidance through this period of change and opportunity.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: Commander, motion to receive and file the report of the Magazine Commission. There are no resolutions, no addendums. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and the second to receive and file the report of The American Legion Magazine Commission. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried. Thank you, Dennis. Good job. The Chair recognizes Dennis R. Boland from Florida, chairman of the Children and Youth Commission.
Oral Report: Commission on Children & Youth Dennis R. Boland, Florida, Chairman
Commander Foster, members of the National Executive Committee, and comrades I thank you for the opportunity to report on the activities of your Commission on Children and Youth. The commission heard two special presentations. You will find specific information on each in my written report. Our service to veterans and their families through the Temporary Financial Assistance program last year reached over $515,000. With the help of The American Legion, over 1,400 veterans' children were afforded food, clothing, utilities and shelter to help maintain the integrity of the family. The Legion Family Support Network continues to play a vital role in assisting our comrades serving on active duty and their families. Last year the Family Support Network fielded nearly 2,100 requests for assistance or approximately 40 per week. This year, the annual Children and Youth Conference is scheduled for September 16th to the 18th. I encourage your department Children and Youth chairmen, and your Children and Youth chairmen from the Auxiliary and the Sons of The American Legion to consider attending this conference. The commission approved the following areas of concern for the 2011-2012 program year: child health, family support, and child safety. Your commission considered one resolution and recommends its approval. As president of The American Legion Child Welfare Foundation, I am proud of the success the foundation has enjoyed this past year. While tough economic conditions continue, over $534,000 has been raised. The Sons of The American Legion presented the foundation with $84,000 in donations during its recent NEC meeting. With the strong support of the Legion family, the Child Welfare Foundation continues to work for the betterment of children. The goal of National Commander David Dew was to hit $100,000 in donations over the weekend. They raised $84,000 and they were expecting a check to come in Sunday night about five o'clock from Pennsylvania. Well, to ensure that they hit the $100,000 I
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 97 extended the weekend until Thursday. (Laughter) They did attain $100,000 in donations. (Applause) Mr. Commander, I would like to recognize the Children and Youth staff for their outstanding hard work that makes my job so easy. I would like to introduce Assistant Director Jason Kees, Lorrie Wykoff, Deputy Director Bob Caudell and Director of Americanism and Children and Youth Jill Druskis. (Applause) Mr. Commander, members of the National Executive Committee, the commission thanks you for your long-standing support. Commander, this concludes my report.
Report: Commission on Children and Youth May 4, 2011 Dennis R. Boland, Florida, Chairman
Your National Commission on Children & Youth met at the Sheraton City Centre Hotel, Panorama A, 21st floor in Indianapolis, Indiana on Monday and Tuesday, May 2 – 3, 2011. The meeting was convened at 9:00 a.m. and the roll was taken. Following opening remarks, the minutes of the fall meeting were reviewed and approved. The Commission heard two presentations. Riley Children's Foundation and Riley Hospital for Children Ashley Strickland, Corporate Relations Officer, Riley Children's Foundation described the world renowned medical care provided by Riley and the support provided by the Foundation. Since 1924, Riley Hospital for Children has provided compassionate care, support and comfort to children and their families. As Indiana's first and only comprehensive pediatric hospital, Riley Hospital for Children has more than 245,000 inpatient and outpatient pediatric visits annually from across the state, nation, and the world. The dedicated pediatric physicians, clinical staff and generous donors have made Riley a place of hope and healing for generations of Hoosiers. Riley Hospital for Children is a member of the 170 Children's Miracle Network Hospitals. Riley Children's Foundation is committed to improving the health and well-being of children through philanthropic leadership in support of Riley Hospital for Children and its research programs. Nick Long, 2009 Riley Champion described the medical care he received at Riley Hospital for Children. Children's Organ Transplant Association Rick Lofgren, President & CEO informed the Commission how Children's Organ Transplant Association (COTA) exists to assist patients who require a life-saving organ, bone marrow, cord blood or stem cell transplant. Since 1989, COTA has received nine grants from the Child Welfare Foundation totaling over $294,000. Christin Kubicek, liver transplant recipient, shared her story and how COTA assisted her family. Temporary Financial Assistance The American Legion's Temporary Financial Assistance Program (TFA) continues to provide for the basic needs of children of eligible veterans through cash grants, made possible through the generosity of The American Legion Endowment Fund Corporation. During 2010, TFA assisted 1,408 children of veterans throughout the United States to maintain shelter, utilities, food, and clothing with over $515,521 in cash grants. For the first quarter of this year, the Legion has provided over $129,499 to 138 veterans' families and 292 children. The Temporary Financial Assistance program continues to be one of our best-kept secrets. Through TFA, a post can call upon the National Organization for cash assistance to help maintain the basic needs of veterans' children. Remember that a veteran does not
98 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 have to be a Legionnaire, just Legion eligible. Children of veterans are still in need. Please encourage your department to make adequate use of this program for the benefit of all. Family Support Network Your Commission received an update on the Family Support Network and the important role The American Legion has in assisting our comrades currently serving on active duty and their families. Last year the Family Support Network fielded nearly 2,068 requests for assistance and information at the National Headquarters alone. For the first quarter of 2011, the Legion has already received over 628 calls for assistance, averaging almost 40 requests per week. National Children & Youth Conference The fifth annual National Children & Youth Conference will be held on September 16-18, 2011 at the Sheraton Hotel in Indianapolis. This conference will educate Legion representatives from 52 departments on current children's issues and the programs of the National Commission on Children & Youth. Conference participants will learn practical implementation strategies for conducting children & youth programs and conferences within their departments. As our children and youth programs work best due to a concerted effort from all members of the Legion family, please encourage the children & youth representatives from your Auxiliary and SAL to consider joining us for a number of informative sessions. Areas of Concern The Commission approved the following Areas of Concern for the 2011–2012 program year: Child Health, Family Support and Child Safety. The staff is charged to develop, revise, and distribute support materials as appropriate. Resolution The Commission considered one resolution, "Rescinding of Children & Youth Non-Legislative Policy Resolutions" and recommends its approval. American Legion Child Welfare Foundation The Board of Directors of the American Legion Child Welfare Foundation met in regular session at the Sheraton Hotel City Centre on Sunday, May 1, 2011. The following officers were elected: Dennis R. Boland (FL), president; Peggy Moon (MN) vice- president; Joseph J. Frank (MO), secretary; and Robert Turner (GA), treasurer. The administrative personnel appointed by the Board were George A. Buskirk, Jr. (IN), assistant treasurer and Robert K. Caudell (IN), executive secretary. The Board of Directors invites all Legion family members to visit the American Legion Child Welfare Foundation's website (www.cwf-inc.org) to learn more about the good work of their Foundation. Established in 1954, the American Legion Child Welfare Foundation was developed as a repository of funds from individuals who wished to contribute to the betterment of children in this country. Its foremost philanthropic priority is to provide other nonprofit organizations with the means to educate the public about the special needs of children across this nation. Charitable donations from Legion family members make a definite difference in the lives of all children. Remember, because The American Legion generously takes care of the Foundation's overhead expenses, every penny goes to programs for kids. Few, if any, other foundations can make this claim. For the 2010-2011 donation year, the Foundation has received over $534,000. The Sons of The American Legion presented the Foundation over $84,000 during their recent spring meetings. The Foundation's website includes specific information for grant seekers on deadlines, submission criteria, limitations and the grant application is available on the website. The web site contains useful links to assist them in their search for organization
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 99 funding. The "Donate Now" button allows visitors to evaluate contribution options and provides the ability to donate online via a secure server. Publications, to include annual reports, audits and fact sheets, are now available for member download. A special, password-protected, micro site for Children's Action Team (CAT) members permits them to examine current award year contribution reports and download CAT publications. Mr. Commander and members of the National Executive Committee, the National Commission on Children & Youth thanks you for your long-standing support. By continuing to work together, we will continue to make a difference in the lives of children of this great nation, as we were tasked to do as one of the four pillars of this great organization. Addendum B: Date of Events/Meetings
Events/Meetings Dates Children & Youth Conference – 2011 September 16-18, 2011 Children & Youth Conference – 2012 September 21-23, 2012 Children & Youth Conference – 2013 September 20-22, 2013 Children & Youth Conference – 2014 September 19-21, 2014 Children & Youth Conference – 2015 September 18-20, 2015 Children & Youth Conference – 2016 September 16-18, 2016
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN HEDRICK: Mr. Commander I move the report of the Commission on Children and Youth be received and filed with the exception of one resolution and one addendum. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and the second to receive and file the report of the Commission on Children and Youth. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Resolution No. 39: Rescinding of Children & Youth Non-Legislative Policy Resolutions Origin: National Commission on Children & Youth Submitted by: National Commission on Children & Youth WHEREAS, In accordance with resolutions of the 1959 and 1960 National Conventions, the National Executive Committee, through its Program Study Committee, has caused to be made a review of all non-legislative policy resolutions, and such action has been taken in further conference with the action of the 1936 National Convention which established policy on the life of such resolutions; and WHEREAS, The National Commission on Children & Youth has concluded an extensive review of National Executive Committee and National Convention resolutions relating to the National Americanism Program from the years 1919 through 2010; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That the following resolutions be, and they are being, rescinded by reason of (1) being obsolete, (2) accomplishment of purpose, (3) being superseded by later resolutions, (4) being in conflict with later resolutions, (5) being duplicated by later resolutions, (6) having no value because of later changes in programs; and (7) for other reasons.
(1) Being obsolete: Child Welfare - Res. 5, Winter 1927, NEC Child Welfare Legislation – Res. 506, Sept. 19-22, 1927, National Convention
100 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 Personal Service in Local Child Welfare Work – Res. 1, Oct. 8-11, 1928, National Convention Scholarships for Orphans of Veterans – Res. 347, Oct. 8-11, 1928, National Convention Approve Nebraska Plan of "Legion Daddies" – Res. 450, Oct. 8-11, 1928, National Convention American Legion to Actively Cooperate With Porto Rico Child Health Committee – Res. 242, Oct. 6-9, 1930, National Convention National Committee of War Orphans - Res. 436, Oct. 6-9, 1930, National Convention Commend the Guardianship Division (Urge the USVB to Continue its Improvement and Increase its Facilities) – Res. 515, Oct. 6-9, 1930, National Convention Utilization of the National Child Welfare Division Library – Res. 511, Oct. 2-5, 1933, National Convention Proceedings of Child Welfare Conference be Printed at National Child Welfare Division Expense – Res. 526, Oct. 2-5, 1933, National Convention Enactment of Legislation Which will more Firmly Secure and Extend Present Public Health Facilities – Res. 528, Oct. 2-5, 1933, National Convention National Child Welfare Division Aid the Departments in Disseminating Helpful Educational Information – Res. 530, Oct. 2-5, 1933, National Convention General Revenue Allocation – Res. 750, Sept. 23-26, 1935, National Convention Special Services – Res. 501, Sept. 21-24, 1936, National Convention Continuity of Service – Res. 502, Sept. 21-24, 1936, National Convention Sub-Committee Assignments – Res. 605, Sept. 20-23, 1937, National Convention Continuance of Child Welfare Special Services and Area "A" and Field Secretary – Res. 237, Sept. 19-22, 1938, National Convention Collection of Clothing for People of Europe – Res. 142, Spring 1947, NEC Suitable System of Identification for Children Be Established as Part of Civilian Defense Program – Res. 700, Oct. 9-12, 1950, National Convention Rejection of Former Juvenile Delinquents for Military Service – Res. 633, Oct. 15-18, 1951, National Convention
(2) Accomplishment of purpose: Appreciation to Child Welfare Committee - Res. 199, Oct. 5-9, 1925 NEC American Legion Children's Billets – Res. 503, Sept. 19-22, 1927, National Convention Auxiliary Co-operation – Res. 513, Oct. 8-11, 1928, National Convention Work of Forty and Eight – Res. 514, Oct. 8-11, 1928, National Convention Appreciation to the American Legion Auxiliary for Support of The American Legion National Child Welfare Program – Res. 509, Oct. 2-5, 1933, National Convention Appreciation to the Forty and Eight for Financial Assistance to the American Legion National Child Welfare Program – Res. 510, Oct. 2-5, 1933, National Convention Appreciation to the Officials of the American Legion Monthly – Res. 535, Oct. 2-5, 1933, National Convention Surveys Being Made in the Departments for the Purpose of Locating Needy Children of Veterans be Continued – Res. 536, Oct. 2-5, 1933, National Convention Legion's Child Welfare Service Be Offered Veterans of Present War – Res. 245, Sept. 19-21, 1942, National Convention
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 101 In Memoriam – Res. 621, Sept. 21-23, 1943, National Convention Commendation of Minnesota for Rheumatic Fever Research - Res. 38, Spring 1947, NEC Establishment of Day-Care Facilities for Children of Employed Mothers – Res. 701, Oct. 9-12, 1950, National Convention
(3) Being superseded by later resolutions: April Designated as Child Welfare Month – Res. 621, Sept. 25-28, 1939, National Convention Increase in the Number of National Commander Scholarships – Res. 13, Fall 1946, NEC Eliminate Distribution of Salacious and Obscene Literature – Res. 479, Sept. 30- Oct. 4, 1946, National Convention Violence and Vandalism in the Schools - Res. 506, Aug. 24-26, 1982, National Convention Catastrophic Illness Among Children – Res. 596, Sept. 3-5, 1984, National Convention
(4) Being in conflict with later resolutions: Continuance of Area Child Welfare Conferences - Res. 29, Sept. 23-26, 1935, National Convention Area Child Welfare – Res. 2, September 1937, NEC Voluntary Cooperative Assistance Medical and Dental – Res. 620, Sept. 25-28, 1939, National Convention
(6) Having no value because of later changes in program: Administrative Expense – Res. 515, Oct. 8-11, 1928, National Convention
(7) For other reasons: Child Welfare in Foreign Departments – Res. 502, Sept. 19-22, 1927, National Convention Continue Child Welfare Program – Res. 315, Oct. 8-11, 1928, National Convention Child Welfare Laws – Res. 512, Oct. 8-11, 1928, National Convention Social Hygiene – Res. 372, Oct. 22-25, 1934, National Convention Special Service – Res. 396, Sept. 23-26, 1935, National Convention Dissemination of Child Welfare Instruction Through the National Legionnaire – Res. 609, Sept. 20-23, 1937, National Convention Continuance of Special Services to Departments – Res. 526, Sept. 19-22, 1938, National Convention Services for Child Welfare Organization – Res. 20, Sept. 25-28, 1939, National Convention Area Child Welfare School Conferences – Res. 21, Sept. 25-28, 1939, National Convention Child Welfare Motion Picture Films – Res. 539, Sept. 15-18, 1941, National Convention Camp Hulen Scholarship Fund – Res. 12, Pre NEC 1944 Committee on Education of Orphans of Veterans to Include a Vice-Chairman – Res. 23, Fall 1945, NEC Local Child Care Centers – Res. 198, Oct. 15-18, 1951, National Convention "The American Legion Present Suitable Awards For 'Outstanding Service To Children'" – Res. 199, Sept. 3-6, 1956, National Convention
102 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 "Outdoor Recreation" – Res. 35, May 5-6, 1965, NEC National Coordinating Council on Drug Abuse Education and Information – Res. 4, Sept. 8, 1968, NEC Children's Miracle Network Project – Res. 30, May 10-11, 2000, NEC Covering Kids and Families Back-to-School Campaign – Res. 32, May 10-11, 2006, NEC
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: Resolution number 39 has the approval of the Commission on Children and Youth and your Subcommittee on Resolutions, therefore, I move for its adoption. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and the second to approve resolution 39. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried. RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: Mr. Commander, attached to this report is Addendum B. I move the action of the Children and Youth Commission become the action of the National Executive Committee. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and the second to approve addendum B. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried. Thank you, Dennis. The Chair recognizes G. Michael Schlee from Maryland for the purpose of the National Security Commission report.
Oral Report: National Security Commission G. Michael Schlee, Maryland, Chairman
Thank you. National Commander Foster, members of the National Executive Committee and guests. You have the written report before you. I would like to highlight some of the things we did on Monday and Tuesday. For one, your commission considered nine resolutions. Eight are recommended for adoption. One is a housekeeping resolution and seven deal with key defensive issues important in Washington today, and you will hear from them in a few minutes. We also discussed justice in the global war on terrorism and the staff briefed us on Libya, and the numerous proposals for the fiscal year 2012 defense budget. We were honored during that morning's session to have Past National Commanders Bacon, Jordan, Spanogle and Hill with us during that session. Monday afternoon, our Law and Order Chairman George Wehrli and his committee selected the National Law Officer of the Year and Firefighter of the Year awards. On Tuesday, as you heard, members of the National Security and Foreign Relations Commissions and guests journeyed to Camp Atterbury at the invitation of Major General Martin Umbarger, the Adjutant General of Indiana. Extensive briefings were received and demonstrations in both the pre- and post-mobilization of our National Guard troops preparing to go to combat. I was particularly impressed with both the competence and compassion of the staff there, both to prepare our troops and to take care of our troops and their families. I want to also thank Past National Commander Bob Spanogle for his invaluable assistance in arranging that trip. Additionally, I would also personally like to acknowledge and thank the staff, Director Barry Searle and Deputy Director Joseph Grassi, for their invaluable contributions. (Applause) At one of the demonstrations we had a mock live fire demonstration at Camp Atterbury, we were fortunate to have the adjutant of North Carolina with us, and I can report to you that the adjutant of North Carolina took three Taliban and two trainers. (Laughter)
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 103 National Commander, I look forward to working with you and the members of the National Executive Committee, and thank you for your support of this commission.
Advance Report: National Security Commission March 21 – March 23, 2011 G. Michael Schlee, Maryland, Chairman
The National Security Commission met in a joint session along with the Foreign Relations Commission on March 21st and convened for its business session on March 23rd during the 51st annual Washington Conference at the Renaissance Hotel, Washington, D.C. The following is a summary of those sessions:
Morning Joint Session, March 21, 2011 The National Security Commission, met in a joint session with the Foreign Relations Commission. The commissions were honored to welcome National Commander Jimmie Foster, Past National Commander (PNC) Clarence Bacon, and PNC David Rehbein, and PNC Clarence Hill. The Joint Session included presentations by eight guest speakers: Dan Larsen, Deputy Director of the Office of Korean Affairs, U.S. Department of State; Kathryn Condon, Executive Director, Arlington National Cemetery; Dr. Ken Gabriel, Deputy Director, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA); Colonel Geoffrey Ling, Defense Sciences Office Program Manager; and including the members of the Joint Military Panel: Technical Sergeant Danekia L. Wells, U.S. Air Force; Sergeant First Class Paul Hertig; HM1 Tyron Hodges, U.S. Navy; and Gunnery Sergeant Samantha Vann, U.S. Marine Corps. Mr. Larsen began the session by taking a moment to honor the sacrifice of the fallen men and women of the United States, the Republic of Korea as well as those of the United Nations during and since the Korean War. He said, "Those standing watch today are part of a long and proud line of people who have worked for the last 6 decades to help protect the Republic of Korea." Mr. Larsen gave an overview of the economic and political landscapes of the Republic of Korea and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). He explained how South Korea ranks as the 14th-largest economy in the world and is the US's 7th largest trading partner as a result of the Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement. However, he reported, that the North Korean economic system remains closed and troubled. In terms of the political realms on the peninsula, the U.S. State Department views South Korea as positive force. The country's democratic government is place and thriving. Mr. Larsen said, "The ROK has arrived on the World Stage." Mr. Larsen continued by reminding the Joint Session of the regional threat that is still being perpetuated by DPRK. North Korea continues to pose a conventional threat to Seoul and continues its nuclear program and remains a proliferation threat. The Taepo- dong 2 launches triggered United Nations Resolutions. North Korea conducted two announced nuclear Tests: in October 2006 and May 2009. Furthermore, he discussed how the North Koreans sunk a South Korean Navy Ship "the Cheonan" on March 26, 2010 which killed 46 sailors and lastly the Nov. 23, 2010 Yong P'yong Do bombing in which two South Korean Marines and two civilians were killed. Mr. Larsen said that the U.S. is maintaining targeted financial sanctions aimed at leadership assets and illicit activities and that these sanctions are working. A U.S. Military exercise in the region continues to add strength to the U.S. diplomacy strategy. He concluded by stating that the complete and irreversible denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, ending human rights abuses by North Korea, and supporting North- South dialogue and cooperation remain important challenges that need to be met.
104 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 Ms. Condon took the stage and told the commission members that a new system is in place to ensure Arlington National Cemetery is a venue fitting to provide eternal rest for our nation's venerable heroes. Ms. Condon discussed the past mismanagement of Arlington and how it has caused great distress. But now, changes have been made. Ms. Condon stated that there is no longer any doubt about who is in charge because the Secretary of the Army John McHugh created the executive director position and this has made Ms. Condon a "direct report" to him personally. The secretary also named a new superintendent, Pat Hallinan. In the last 10 months, she said, we have resolved most of the issues. In that process, however, she has also uncovered additional problems at Arlington but promises that she'll address them, fix them and move forward. Moving forward includes increasing the number of cemetery employees, adding comprehensive training programs for employees, implementing the cemetery's consolidated call center with a toll free number (877-907-8585); and upcoming plans to implement total digital GPS-mapping of Arlington. Dr. Gabriel and Colonel Ling presented the DARPA presentation. Dr. Gabriel began by giving a brief overview of DARPA's history. The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) was established in 1958 to prevent strategic surprise from negatively impacting U.S. national security and create strategic surprise for U.S. adversaries by maintaining the technological superiority of the U.S. military. To fulfill its mission, the Agency relies on diverse performers to apply multi-disciplinary approaches to both advance knowledge through basic research and create innovative technologies that address current practical problems through applied research. DARPA's scientific investigations span the gamut from laboratory efforts to the creation of full-scale technology demonstrations in the fields of biology, medicine, computer science, chemistry, physics, engineering, mathematics, material sciences, social sciences, neurosciences, and more. As the DOD's primary innovation engine, DARPA undertakes projects that are finite in duration but that create lasting revolutionary change. Colonel Ling concluded the DARPA segment of the program by describing DARPA's newly developed Blast Dosimeter System technology, known as "BDI." The wound most characteristic of soldiers who have been deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan is traumatic brain injury (TBI). Sudden attacks from weapons such as improvised explosive devices (IEDs), grenades and roadside bombs have been frequent occurrences during the war and have caused much damage to the brains of soldiers. Many affected by these types of explosions are unaware of the severity of the trauma, and it is possible for TBI to go undiagnosed long after they return home. Under one of its programs, Colonel Ling explained, DARPA has devised a way to record the intensity of an explosion that a soldier will experience during an attack by applying a small, rectangular blast dosimeter to his/her helmet. The objective of this technology is to produce an inexpensive, disposable, very lightweight blast dosimeter to measure the phenomenology associated with repeated exposure to blast events. The diagnosis and treatment of TBI can be greatly improved by the implementation of this technology. The Joint Session was brought to a close with the Military Joint Panel. All of the members of the Military Joint Panel have, at one time or another, deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan or both. Barry Searle, National Security / Foreign Relations Division Director served as the panel moderator. Mr. Searle began the discussion by asking the panel if women in the military should be permitted to train and serve in combat-arms military occupational specialties (MOSs). The panel expressed a consensus that in the current theater, women are already performing combat roles due to the requirements of mission dictated by the need to respect local cultures' sensitivity to male/female interactions. In other words, having a male soldier search a local female civilian for
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 105 explosives after a raid would not improve fragile relations between the U.S. military and local civilian leaders and elders; an integral part in the strategy to win hearts and minds. The panel also addressed the controversial decision to repeal the Defense Department policy known as "Don't ask, don't tell" thereby allowing homosexuals to serve openly. The panel acknowledged that each of them know that they already serve alongside homosexuals and do not foresee any real difference when the change takes effect. One member explained that the word "openly" needs to be better defined in terms of military service because fellow military members, she explained, do not expect any change in military standards due to the new policy. However, there were concerns among the military panel after some discussion. One member discussed concerns over individuals joining the service and deliberately violating the Uniform Code of Military Justice to make a political statement while using the umbrella of political correctness for protection. The service member was also concerned about senior leadership not supporting company-level officers if legitimate concerns over violations to the UCMJ— having nothing to do with sexual orientation—are outweighed by political and professional advancement considerations. The panel wrapped up the session by communicating their biggest challenges: balancing service and family time; threats of government shutdowns impacting military pay; the smooth transfer of family TRICARE benefits and care during duty station changes; spouse employment; adequate child care; waiting periods for on-post housing; shortfalls in military clothing supply; and the successful programs helping troops vote for political candidates during deployments overseas. The panelists agreed that they did not have any problem casting their votes from Iraq or Afghanistan. However, they concurred, that the real issue is trying to convince the junior NCOs and lower enlisted to take time out to vote in the first place. PNC Bacon contributed to the discussion by describing the Operation Comfort Warrior Program, Heroes to Hometown Program, and The American Legion's regular visits to Walter Reed Army Medical Center. He told the members on the panel that, "all sorts of support is available from The American Legion. Be sure to take this message back to all of your units."
Afternoon Joint Session / POW/MIA Update, March 21, 2011 The expert panel on the POW/MIA issues was comprised of Johnie Webb, Deputy to the Commander for Public Relations and Legislative Affairs, Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC) and Ruben Caudle, Stony Beach Program Manager, Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA). The discussion revolved around the construction of a new $100 million headquarters and lab for identification of American dead from past wars. The National Defense Authorization Act states that JPAC will increase the number of remains account for to 200 persons per year by 2015. However, this goal is currently unattainable due to Congress not passing a 2011 budget or passing a continuing resolution for 2012. The Defense Authorization Act calls for increased funding, increasing the number for JPAC personnel, and consolidating all JPAC operations into a single all-encompassing facility located at Hickam Air Force Base. The remains of more than 80,000 American soldiers are unaccounted for worldwide with the majority of over 74,000 missing throughout Europe. In order to increase the number of accounted for personnel each year JPAC will use their 2012 budget to increase accounting efforts in Europe. Another reason for increased efforts in Europe are the difficulties in accounting in Southeast Asia to include the harsh terrain and weather conditions in jungles and mountains in Vietnam which allow only a 90-day window to conduct accounting operations as well as the ending of diplomatic relations with North Korea.
106 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 Members of the audience were very interested to hear about Stony Beach's efforts in Southeastern Asian countries bordering Vietnam. These countries such as Cambodia allow unrestricted accounting through surveying and interviewing villagers along the border of Vietnam. This unrestricted accounting allows researchers to gain experience in anthropology that cannot be gained through classroom training alone. In the past, the retention of scientists at JPAC has been negatively affected by the high cost of living in Hawaii and the distance living there places between the employees and their families living stateside. The solution JPAC came up with is the JPAC Forensic Science Academy. The academy is a program in which graduate level students can attend for real world training that also grants one graduate level college credit. The benefit to the program for JPAC is the program includes a six-week recovery operation in Laos and Vietnam. This allows JPAC to get to know the students and watch how they perform in the field. This year JPAC received 26 applications from students who attended the program for six open positions. This means JPAC is now receiving the best and brightest graduates who are now joining with a full understanding of what employment with JPAC means.
Business Meeting Newly named National Security Commission Chairman G. Michael Schlee opened the business session to conduct its conference business but charged Vice Chairman E.C. Toppin with directing the meeting due to him being called to a special meeting on Iraq and Afghanistan. Joseph Grassi, Deputy Director organized the meeting in four sections: 1) committee and resolution reorganization plan proposals (including both resolutions with legislative intent and policy resolutions); 2) The American Legion's Department of Defense Budget recommendation for the Federal Budget of Fiscal year 2012; a white paper discussion on the topics of War Widows' Tax, Strategic U.S. Raw Materials, and status update on: DADT Repeal; and a brief discussion on the trip to Camp Atterbury being planned for the Spring meetings along with a review of the pre-convention trip to visit the Minnesota National Guard and Air National Guard. Mr. Grassi began his discussion by offering some proposals involving the potential updating of the names of the standing committees; the way to reducing the number of legislative resolutions in the National Security portfolio; and the potential reduction in the number of over 500 non-legislative resolutions. Mr. Grassi explained that if these changes were to take place, they would happen gradually over a considerable period of time due to convention protocol. Mr. Grassi continued his discussion by addressing the segment of the federal budget affecting military support and readiness. In fiscal year 2011, total defense spending: amounted to $708 billion. President Barack Obama's fiscal year 2012 Defense Budget recommendation is $671 billion. The American Legion, by resolution, maintains that in the best interests of the United States the Defense Budget should be funded to at least four percent of Gross Domestic product (GDP) during time of peace, and five percent during a time of war. On the basis that a transitional force of approximately 50,000 U.S. troops will remain in Iraq assisting Iraq's Security Forces, supporting Iraqi troops in targeted counterterrorism missions, and protecting U.S. civilians along with the fact that more than 90,000 troops continue to be deployed to Afghanistan to target the insurgency and secure key population centers, we continue to be a country at war. The projected Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for 2011, according to the Congressional Budget Office, is $15.2 trillion. In accordance with The American Legion's official position, five percent of the projected GDP is $760 billion. In light of these figures, The American Legion recommends a 7.3 percent increase in total defense spending for fiscal year 2012.
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 107 Mr. Grassi concluded the meeting discussing the planning processes underway for the 2011 Spring Meeting Trip to Camp Atterbury and the pre-convention trip to visit the Minnesota National Guard and Air National Guard.
Report: National Security Commission May 4-5, 2011 G. Michael Schlee, Maryland, Chairman
An executive session of the National Security Commission met on May 1, 2011 in the Circle Center of the Sheraton Hotel, Indianapolis, Indiana, to discuss current national security issues facing the United States along with reviewing nine resolutions before the National Security Commission. G. Michael Schlee, Chairman, National Security Commission opened the meeting and welcomed Past National Commander (PNC) Clarence Bacon of Maryland, PNC Tony Jordan of Maine, PNC Bob Spanogle of Indiana, and PNC Clarence Hill of Florida. The National Security Commission was honored by their attendance and very appreciative of their participation in the commission's business discussions. The resolutions entitled Increase Army End Strength and Reserves and National Guard Retirement Benefit Fairness were referred to the National Security Commission by the Pennsylvania Department Executive Committee. The remaining seven resolutions originated with the National Security Commission and are entitled as follows: Rare Earth Elements, Rescinding Obsolete Resolutions Dealing with National Security, Flexible Savings Accounts, Oppose Widow's Tax, The American Legion's Position on Tricare, Uniform Standards for Military Occupational Specialties, and Military Readiness. After the commission conducted a thorough analysis of each proposed resolution and held discussions on each resolution, the commission reached a consensus and recommends approval of eight resolutions. The National Security Commission made a recommendation to receive and record the resolution entitled Increase Army's End Strength. The business meeting also included a national security update by Joseph Grassi, Deputy Director, National Security and Foreign Relations, Division. His presentation focused on the current issues surrounding the latest comments made by Defense Secretary Robert Gates in connection with Libyan military command centers being legitimate targets for U.S. and NATO. Mr. Grassi concluded his briefing by analyzing the FY 2011 Total Defense Spending of $708 billion; President Obama's FY 2012 Defense Budget Recommendation of $671 billion; and The American Legion's FY 2012 Defense Budget Recommendation of $760 billion with Congressman Paul Ryan's budget recommendation for defense. In the afternoon, George Werhli, Chairman, National Security Law and Order Committee, lead a group to review and choose the finalists of the Law Officer and Firefighter of the Year Awards in room 315 of The American Legion National Headquarters. At the invitation of Major General R. Martin Umbarger, Commander, Joint Forces Headquarters, members of the National Security Commission and Foreign Relations Commission and guests attended briefings on the mobilization of National Guard units who are being deployed to combat zones on Tuesday, May 3rd. The visit included briefings on the training and equipping of Provincial Reconstruction Teams (PRT) by 1st Army, demobilization, the services provided to these guard personnel and their families. PNC Bob Spanogle, Mr. Barry Searle, Mr. Dick Holmes, Mr. Joseph Grassi, Mr. Freddy Gessner, and Mr. Dave Shorter have been instrumental in the coordination of this visit to Camp Atterbury.
108 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 The National Security Commission looks forward to working with National Commander Jimmie Foster and the distinguished members of the National Executive Committee throughout the year. We thank you for your strong and continuing support.
Addendum A: Resolutions Not Approved
Received and Recorded Register Resolution No. 2657 (PA) (DEC): Increase Army End Strength
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: Mr. Commander, I make a motion to receive and file the report of the National Security Commission, with the exception of eight resolutions and one addendum. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Motion and the second to receive and file the report of the National Security Commission. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Resolution No. 20: Flexible Savings Accounts Origin: National Security Commission Submitted by: National Security Commission WHEREAS, Medical savings accounts also known as "flexible savings accounts," are recognized by Title 37 of the United States Code for civilian employees but not Active duty members of the Department of Defense; and WHEREAS, Medical savings accounts are pretax savings utilized by families specifically for health care, dental, and child care expenses; and WHEREAS, Reserve Component members not under TRICARE historically have had significant mobilization issues due to deferred preventive health care for such things as dental checkups, which have reduced the readiness of both service members and units; and WHEREAS, Medical savings accounts would assist Reserve Component members in affording regular health care, improving the remobilization health of service members, thereby improving readiness of the Reserve Component; and WHEREAS, The American Legion universally supports those earned entitlements that benefit military families; and WHEREAS, The American Legion believes that the Department of Defense is discriminating against those who sacrifice the most in the defense of this nation by not allowing military families and individual service members to participate in medical savings accounts; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That The American Legion supports the participation in pretax medical savings accounts for both Active Duty and Reserve Component service members and military families; and, be it finally RESOLVED, That Congress be urged to pass legislation that enables participation in pretax medical savings accounts.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBER KILE: This resolution is approved by the National Security Commission, your Resolutions Subcommittee, and I move for its adoption. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Motion and second to approve resolution 20. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 109 Resolution No. 21: Uniform Standards for Combat Military Occupational Specialties Origin: National Security Commission Submitted by: National Security Commission WHEREAS, The American Legion has long recognized the significant role and contributions of women serving in the military services of the United States of America; and WHEREAS, Women veterans have been eligible for full membership in The American Legion since its founding in 1919, prior to the full franchise of women to vote in presidential elections; and WHEREAS, There are 213,823 women serving on active duty in the military, comprising 14.5% of the total Active Force, and 71,182 women serving in the National Guard and Reserve, comprising 15.2 % of the total Guard and Reserve, and they are all serving with distinction and valor; and WHEREAS, Women are excluded from serving in Combat Arms Military Occupational Specialties in the Army and Marines and Navy Seals where close combat, high intensity engagements with the enemy on a daily basis is expected; and WHEREAS, The combat exclusion clause is based in large part on the findings of the Presidential Commission on the Assignment of Women in the Military, dated November 15, 1992, based on the physical requirements of service in combat situations; and WHEREAS, Women are serving in Iraq and Afghanistan in low intensity combat, in truck convoys, military police units, female engagement teams, in Afghan villages, interacting and assisting Afghan women, and other positions; and WHEREAS, Wherever any member of our armed forces serving in Iraq and Afghanistan are on a battlefield, which is constantly changing definition, and there are no truly secure areas; and WHEREAS, 100 female service members have been killed in Iraq and 27 more have died in Afghanistan; and WHEREAS, A number of service women are suffering from the signature wounds of this war-Post Traumatic Stress (PTS) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI); and WHEREAS, Congress, in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009, Section 596, mandated the creation of the Military Leadership Diversity Commission (MLDC), whose report has been delivered to the President of the United States and Congress on March 15, 2011; and WHEREAS, The MLDC in Recommendation 9 states: DoD and the Services should eliminate the "Combat Exclusion Policies for women" including the removal of barriers and inconsistencies, to create a level playing field for all qualified: a. Women in career fields/specialties currently open to them should be immediately able to be assigned to any unit that requires that career field/specialty, consistent with the current operational environment; b. DoD and the Services should take deliberate steps in a phased approach to open additional career fields and units involved in "direct ground combat" to qualified women; c. DoD and the Services should report to Congress the process and timeline for removing barriers that inhibit women from achieving senior leadership positions; and WHEREAS, The President of the United States, the Secretary of Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, in public statements, favor the elimination of the "combat exclusion clause" for women; and WHEREAS, Since the date of the report (MLDC), March 15, 2011, the proper committees of Congress have not fully analyzed the report nor compared its findings to other finding such as the Women in the Military Report (1992) or held public hearings; and
110 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 WHEREAS, There are valid concerns about the physical demands required of soldiers to qualify and serve in the combat arms: Army and Marine infantry, armor, artillery, Army Special Forces and Navy Seals; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That The American Legion strongly believes the Department of Defense and all branches of the military must maintain, at a minimum, the current physical and mental requirements and qualifications for acceptance into military service that have created the best and most respected military in the world; and, be it further RESOLVED, That the mental and physical qualifications of all military personnel, regardless of gender or age, should be held to a single duty position specific standard depending on Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) and not be amended without Congressional authority; and, be it finally RESOLVED, That The American Legion believes that without such strong oversight by Congress of the physical and mental requirements, there exists the possibility of incremental changes that would reduce the physical and mental qualifications and requirements for the sake of accommodating personnel for "social experiments," and would have a detrimental or a disastrous effect on the combat effectiveness of our nation's Army and Marine Combat Arms, Special Forces and Navy Seals.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBER KILE: This resolution is recommended by your National Security Commission, approved by your Resolutions Subcommittee, and I so move. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Motion and second to approve resolution 21. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Resolution No. 22: Oppose Widow's Tax Origin: National Security Commission Submitted by: National Security Commission WHEREAS, A government policy known as the "widows' tax" (Subchapter II of chapter 73 of title 10, United States Code) states that a military spouse whose loved one dies from a service-related cause cannot collect both survivor's benefits and the full annuity benefits from insurance purchased from the Defense Department at the time of retirement and instead, the amount of the annuity payment is reduced by the amount of the monthly survivor benefit; and WHEREAS, In order for widows of those veterans who died from service-connected disability to fully collect their annuity benefits from insurance from the Defense Department at retirement, the widows must remarry when they are 57 years old or older; and WHEREAS, The government attempts to assist widows who are denied full benefits of their military insurance by returning the premiums their spouses had paid for the policies; however, if a widow then remarries at age 57 or older, becoming eligible for the benefit, she can only get it by repaying the insurance premiums the government had refunded to her; and WHEREAS, Those widows 56 years old and younger or those widows who never remarry are not eligible to collect their full insurance benefit; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That The American Legion urges Congress to repeal certain provisions which require the offset of amounts paid in dependency and indemnity compensation from Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) annuities for the surviving spouses of former military personnel
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 111 who are entitled to military retired pay or who would be entitled to retired pay except for being under 60 years of age; and, be it further RESOLVED, That The American Legion urges Congress to prohibit requiring repayment of certain amounts previously paid to SBP recipients in the form of a retired pay refund; and, be it finally RESOLVED, That The American Legion urges Congress to the payment of an annuity to a member's dependent children when there is no eligible surviving spouse.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBER KILE: This is recommended by your National Security Commission, and your Resolutions Subcommittee, and I so move for approval. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Motion and second to approve resolution 22. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Resolution No. 23: Military Readiness Origin: National Security Commission Submitted by: National Security Commission WHEREAS, The United States Military, beginning with the Revolutionary War, has been composed primarily of a citizen soldiery; those men and women who serve for a period of time and then return home; and WHEREAS, Service in the United States Military is an honor and not a right; and WHEREAS, The military of any country exists for the primary purpose of defending that country from outside enemies; and WHEREAS, There is a continual decline in the percentage of the nation's population who have experienced firsthand military service; and WHEREAS, That lack of military experience can lead to making decisions from a limited point of view; and WHEREAS, Changes in the society from which the members of the United State military are drawn have created pressures on our military structure to more closely resemble that of society; and WHEREAS, The types of changes being experienced in society and contemplated for the military are those for which many members of society have strong feelings and emotions; and WHEREAS, Discussion and proposed implementation of societal changes in the military can become a distraction from the primary mission of national security and defense; and WHEREAS, It is well recognized that certain rights granted to citizens under the Constitution are suspended for military service members under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, thereby strengthening the premise that certain civilian beliefs and actions may not be conducive to accomplishment of the military's primary mission; and WHEREAS, All changes of any nature must involve contemplation of relative advantages and disadvantages; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That The American Legion stands firmly behind the principle that military readiness and mission accomplishment must be the primary considerations and the final deciding factor for any proposed changes in eligibility for service and job assignments; and, be it further RESOLVED, That the members of The American Legion specifically and the people of the United States in general be reminded that proposed military and naval
112 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 actions based on personal preference and belief must be subjugated to the determination that military readiness is paramount; and, be it finally RESOLVED, That The American Legion expects the civilian and military leadership of our nation to be able to demonstrate that any changes in the military and naval organization being contemplated in response to societal changes be put into effect only if it has been proven that such changes will enhance our military readiness and the ability to accomplish the primary mission of national defense.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBER KILE: This resolution has been approved by your National Security Commission, your Resolutions Subcommittee, and I so move for its adoption. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Motion and second to approve resolution 23. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Resolution No. 24: The American Legion's Position on Tricare Origin: National Security Commission Submitted by: National Security Commission WHEREAS, The American Legion recognizes the nation's debt owed to the entire military retirement community for their sacrifices and hardships endured in honorable military service to this nation; and WHEREAS, Military retirees have borne unique and arduous service conditions for 20 or 30 years that other Americans have not endured, including hazardous duty in foreign countries often involving combat, and extended family separations; and WHEREAS, America is currently in a fiscally challenging period where increased budget cuts and calls for reduced entitlements may significantly and negatively impact retirees, veterans, and their families; and WHEREAS, The continuing decline of experience in military service by Congressional members and the American public in general has led to a disaffection with maintaining entitlements for retirees and veterans; and WHEREAS, It is anticipated that national security imperatives placed on the Department of Defense due to world wide instability will increase the need for a larger and more deployed active duty and reserve component force; and WHEREAS, This larger force will ultimately lead to an ever increasing number of retirees; and WHEREAS, It is anticipated that retiree benefits such as Tricare will become an ever increasing percentage of the Department of Defense budget; and WHEREAS, The American Legion has always considered itself a partner with the Department of Defense; and WHEREAS, The American Legion resists increases in Tricare premiums to retirees and adamantly opposes any proposal that will significantly and negatively impact quality of life benefits for honorable military service; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By The American Legion in National Executive Committee assembled in Indianapolis Indiana May 4-5, 2011, That The American Legion shall prevail upon this administration and the Department of Defense (DoD) to reconsider any proposals to implement any increases in military retirees'Tricare enrollment fees, deductibles, or premiums; and, be it further RESOLVED, That before those proposals are considered all efforts must be shown to have been exhausted to remove waste, fraud, and abuse from the Tricare program; and, be it further RESOLVED, That any increases will be reinvested in the Tricare program to improve healthcare access for retirees and their families and not returned to the general DoD budget for other purposes; and, be it further
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 113 RESOLVED, That any increases should, by law, have no negative impact on retirees financially, and that any increase must be directly tied to and not exceed the annual cost of living adjustment percentage provided to retirees; and, be it finally RESOLVED, That the American Legion will continue research and advocate for the best course of action to insure the most effective, lowest cost, and responsible way to deliver healthcare to retirees, veterans, and their families.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBER KILE: This resolution has been approved by the National Security Commission, your Resolutions Subcommittee, and I so move. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Motion and second to approve resolution 24. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Resolution No. 25: Rare Earth Elements Origin: National Security Commission Submitted by: National Security Commission WHEREAS, Rare earth elements are a collection of 17 elements that are critical to civilian and military high technology applications: Scandium; Yttrium; Lanthanum; Cerium; Praseodymium; Neodymium; Promethium; Samarium; Europium; Gadolinium; Terbium; Dysprosium; Holmium; Erbium; Thulium; Ytterbium; and Lutetium; and WHEREAS, Rare earth elements are distributed globally, with 36 percent of known reserves located in China, and 13 percent located in the United States; and WHEREAS, China produces 97 percent of the world's rare earth elements, a key component in a large assortment of advanced technologies and increasing global demand along with Chinese reductions in export quotas over the past six years have led to international concerns about future supply shortages; and WHEREAS, Some of the U.S. defense-related weapons and equipment that contain rare-earth elements are: Predator unmanned aerial vehicles, Tomahawk cruise missiles, Zumwalt-class destroyers, night vision goggles, smart bombs, and sonar transducers as well as other sophisticated military applications including guidance and control systems; advanced optics technologies; radar and radiation detection equipment; and advanced communications; and WHEREAS, China also produces 97 percent of rare earth oxides and supplies 100 percent of rare earth refining capacity; and WHEREAS, China may use its monopoly over rare earths to leverage its influence on U.S. foreign policy and numerous analysts have expressed concerns that quota reductions will increase U.S. element dependence; and WHEREAS, The price of select rare earths has risen almost 500 percent in the last 2 years; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That The American Legion urges Congress to amend to the National Defense Authorization Act or separate piece of legislation requiring the Department of Defense to define which rare earths, if any, are critical to national security; and, be it finally RESOLVED, That The American Legion urges Congress to require the Department of Defense to provide an assessment of the needs of the U.S. rare earth supply-chain for defense and require the Defense Secretary to have a long-term plan.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBER KILE: This resolution has been approved by your National Security Commission, your Resolutions Subcommittee, and I so move. ...Second.
114 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Motion and second to approve resolution 25. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Resolution No. 26: Reserves and National Guard Retirement Benefit Fairness Origin: Register Res. No. 2658 (PA) DEC Submitted by: National Security Commission WHEREAS, The Congress of the United States has passed laws that would allow Reserves and National Guard members retirement credit points to retire early provided that they served on active duty for 90 consecutive days in a fiscal year and have completed 20 years of service before the age of 60 years; and WHEREAS, The effective date for this benefit is for those who served after its signing in early 2008; and WHEREAS, The law signed leaves out all the Reserves and National Guard members who were activated between August 2, 1990 through present that would give them credit for their active duty service toward early retirement; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That The American Legion urges the Congress of the United States to amend the regulation that allows early retirement for Reserves and National Guard members who have completed 20 years of service and have not reached the age of 60 years and have been activated to Active Federal Duty since August 2, 1990 affording them the same benefit as those who served after the signing of the law.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBER KILE: This resolution has been approved by your National Security Commission, your Resolutions Subcommittee, and I so move. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Motion and second to approve resolution 26. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Resolution No. 27: Rescinding Obsolete Resolutions Dealing with National Security Origin: National Security Commission Submitted by: National Security Commission WHEREAS, Resolution No. 111 adopted by the 18th National Convention specifies that policy resolutions shall remain in effect indefinitely unless "changed by subsequent Convention action or by action of the National Executive Committee"; and WHEREAS, Resolution No. 759 adopted by the 30th National Convention specifies that legislative resolutions expire at the end of each congress, except those adopted at the National Convention or National Executive Committee immediately preceding the convening of a new congress are effective until it adjourns; and WHEREAS, The National Security Division has completed a review of all national security resolutions in order to keep them current and accurate; now, therefore be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana on May 4-5, 2011, That the following national security resolutions are rescinded by reason of: being obsolete; accomplishment of purpose; being superseded by later resolutions; being in conflict with later resolutions; being duplicated by later resolutions, having no value because of later changes in program; and for other reasons: Number Year Occurrence Title 200 1924 Convention International Air Races at Dayton, Ohio 501 1928 Convention Make America Naval-Minded 503 1928 Convention Department Co-operation 504 1928 Convention Thanking Standing Committee
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 115 4 1933 Spring American Legionnaire Show 5 1933 Spring One Year Contract with Aero Digest 159 1939 Convention Cooperative with Other Organizations in Juvenile Delinquency 57 1941 Spring The American Legion Adoption of the State Defense Legislation 10 1941 Special Questionnaire Information 21 1942 Fall Second Campaign for Records for Our Fighting Men 57 1942 Spring Playing Cards 58 1942 Spring Junior Nautical Reserve 60 1942 Spring Naval Recruiting 61 1942 Spring Selective Service as Naval Aid 62 1942 Spring Gold Star Plaque 64 1942 Spring Blood Donor Centers 66 1942 Spring Alaskan Defense 68 1942 Spring Veteran's Division, OCD 69 1942 Spring Locks at Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan 70 1942 Spring Government Employees 74 1942 Spring Volunteer Pre-military Training 77 1942 Spring Appreciation to Selective Service Boards 33 1943 Fall Gurney-Wadsworth Bill 624 1943 Convention American Legion Auxiliary Service in Hospitals 39 1943 Spring Material in Custody of Alien Property Custodian 40 1943 Spring Recruitment in Women's Corps and Auxiliary Service 41 1943 Spring Louisiana ROTC Plan 42 1943 Spring Aircraft Warning Service 43 1943 Spring Black Markets 44 1943 Spring Blood Plasma 46 1943 Spring Merchant Ships 47 1943 Spring Officer Personnel 48 1943 Spring Mail for Armed Forces 28 1944 Fall Student Participation in Self-Government in the Schools 11 1944 Pre-Conv Establishment of Library in National Defense Division 13 1944 Spring Inspection of Motor Vehicles as to their Safety Factors 30 1944 Spring Juvenile Delinquency 50 1944 Spring Contributions to Records for Our Fighting Men Inc 1 1945 Spring Federal Military Equipment for State Guards 2 1945 Spring Insular Forces be Entitled to Same Benefits as Regular Navy 3 1945 Spring Prompt Information to Nearest Kin Regarding Grave Location 7 1945 Spring Motion Picture Films of Army Pictorial Service 8 1945 Spring National Defense Committee Subdivision 10 1945 Spring Continuance of War Activities by Civilians 13 1945 Spring Encourage Strong State Guard Units 15 1945 Spring American Legion Position on Universal Military Training 42 1946 Convention Legion Continue Civilian Defense as Part of National Defense 817 1946 Convention Departments Urged for Formulate Plans to Carry Out Valor Program 834 1946 Convention Promotion of Army Officers on Retirement 4 1946 Spring High Standards of Morals for Universal Military Training Establishments 11 1946 Spring National Advisory Panel on Juvenile Problems 80 1947 Fall Publicize the Importance of the US Navy 86 1947 Fall Board of Visitors for Military and Naval Academics 112 1947 Convention Organized Reserve in Alaska 831 1947 Convention Educational Campaign by the Legion in the Interests of the American Merchant Marine 838 1947 Convention Postpone Election on Cab Ruling 292.1 868 1947 Convention Army Pay and Benefits for Philippine Scouts 95 1947 Spring Good Citizenship of Youth and Control of Juvenile Delinquency
116 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 494 1948 Convention American Legion be Represented on the Board of Visitors to the Service Academies 779 1948 Convention Voluntary Recruiting program 787 1948 Convention Adequate Housing for Enlisted men 58 1948 Spring Emergency Selective Service Legislation 102 1948 Spring Public Information on International Situation 78 1949 Convention National Security Plan of the American Legion 150 1949 Convention National Security Plan of the American Legion 256 1949 Convention National Security Plan of the American Legion 349 1949 Convention Release Employees with Full Pay for Defense Field Training 405 1949 Convention Suitable American Legion Award to Major Rudolph Schroeder 522 1949 Convention Support Academics and Training for US Merchant Marine 643 1949 Convention American Legion Plan for Civil Defense 657 1949 Convention Confidence in Scouting Program of Secretary of National Defense 660 1949 Convention Support of Air Force and Army Recruiting Program 44 1949 Spring Financial Assistance from Outside Agencies to Promote National Security 38 1950 Fall Legislation to Provide Impounded Animals for Medical Research 39 1950 Fall Plan of Drafting and Recalling Men to Service with Armed Forces 40 1950 Fall General Courts-Martial Board 42 1950 Fall Reappraisal of Universal Service Policy of The American Legion 178 1950 Convention Selective Service Training Include Moral, Spiritual and American Education 353 1950 Convention Challenge Statements of Harold Ickes' About Performance of General McArthur 689 1950 Convention Appreciation to Louis A. Johnson for Service Rendered as Secretary of Defense 696 1950 Convention Commend Senator Warren G. Magnuson for his Efforts to Maintain an American Merchant Marine 713 1950 Convention Commend Major General Hershey for his Administration of Selective Service 70 1950 Spring Civil Defense Program of The American Legion 29 1951 Fall Avoid Mandatory Limitations on Numbers or Movement of Our Armed Forces 23 1951 Convention Adequate Civil Defense Program be Developed 304 1951 Convention Reduced Transportation Rates for Service Men on Furlough 358 1951 Convention Use of Officers Not Fitted for Service with Troops Because of Age 28 1951 Spring Military Training in Secondary Schools 34 1951 Spring Service Flag and a Service Lapel Button 13 1952 Fall National Blood Program 389 1952 Convention Reiterate Historic Stand for Adequate National Defense Program 523 1952 Convention National Security Policy 598 1952 Convention United States Adopt a Policy to Support Oppressed Peoples Fighting to Liberate Themselves from Communist Tyranny 175 1953 Convention Former Philippine Scouts be Recognized as a Component of the United States Army or its reserve 228 1953 Convention Re-establish a Program of Increased Emphasis on Air Power 391a 1953 Convention Army be Urged to Supply Adequate Officer & Enlisted Personnel to Carry an Efficient Junior ROTC Program in High Schools 601 1953 Convention Appreciation to American Press and in Particular to the Hearst Papers for Publicizing National Defense 57 1953 Spring Work-Resident Status of Reserve Personnel or Drafters in Mexico Called to Military Service 43 1954 Convention Local Selective Service Boards Include at Least Two Members With Military Service 453 1954 Convention Each Post Establish a Rescue Team for Civil Defense 519 1954 Convention Legislation Urged to Correct and Improve Civil Air Patrol
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 117 371 1955 Convention Research a Development on Nuclear Weapons 474 1955 Convention Status of Forces Agreement 73 1956 Fall Cooperate to Interest Youth of the Nation in Making the Military Services a Career 38 1956 Convention Establish a National Commission or Committee on Amateur Radio Network 511 1956 Convention Army Air Mobility on the Battlefield 32 1956 Spring Naming of Athletic Field at Air Force Academy 29 1957 Fall United States Defense Policy 269 1957 Convention Death Notification Method for a Member of the Armed Forces be Changed 70 1957 Spring Endorse Inauguration Pilot Civil Defense Program 8 1958 Fall Dissemination of Scientific Research to Agencies of the Defense Department 20 1958 Fall Contacts with the Armed Forces 19 1958 Convention American Legion Posts be Encouraged to Support and Participate in Local Civil Air Patrol Cadet Training 23 1958 Convention Encourage Qualified Young Men to Seek Appointment to Service Academies 48 1958 Convention Posts Educate the Public to Adequate Civil Defense and Aid in Organizing Rescue Teams 49 1958 Convention Encourage and Accelerate the American Legions Blood Donor Program 118 1958 Convention Support the United States Savings Bonds Program for a Stronger National Defense 165 1958 Convention Cooperation with Civil Air Patrol Aviation Education Program in Schools and Colleges 208 1958 Convention Proclaim December 7 as Civil Defense Day to Promote Need for Adequate Civil Defense 262 1958 Convention Create and Maintain an Adequate Aircraft Industry 372 1958 Convention Oppose any Cutback in the Defense Program of the United States 638 1958 Convention Commendation 639 1958 Convention American Legion Supports the Adoption of Local Ordinances and Regulations that will Encourage and Promote the Establishment of Heliports and the Operation of Helicopters 640 1958 Convention The American Legion Recommends the Development and Execution of Program to Provide Sufficient Modern Airlift to Meet the New Requirements of the Air-Atomic Missile Age 643 1958 Convention Commendation for Outstanding Service 4 1958 Spring Disaster Relief Agreement Between the National Red Cross and The American Legion 9 1958 Spring Improve Aviation Education Program 7 1959 Fall Continuity of Government in the Event of Emergency 9 1959 Fall Public Awareness to Need for Food, Drug, Canned Water Survival Kits 11 1959 Fall Support United States Capability in CBR Weapons and Increased Public Understanding and Support for CBR Preparedness 18 1959 Fall Emergency Fund to Pay Armed Forces Accident Damages 80 1959 Convention Arm All Military Planes Flying in or Near a Radius of Communist Held Territory 81 1959 Convention Commend the United States Air Force Regarding the Berlin Air Corridor 276 1959 Convention December 7th as Civil Defense Day 279 1959 Convention Civil Defense Self Help Program 281 1959 Convention Light Rescue Teams for Civil Defense 302 1959 Convention Modernize Weapons and Equipment of U.S. Armed Forces 407 1959 Convention Civil Air Patrol Cadet Training 636 1959 Convention Federal Aviation Agency Requirements for Pilot Licensing
118 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 18 1959 Spring Aeronautics and Space Programs of the American Legion 113 1960 Convention Re-evaluate the Military Preparedness of Alaska 292 1960 Convention National Security Training and Reserve Training Programs 305 1960 Convention Nuclear Testing Program of the United States be Resumed 306 1960 Convention Commend the Armed Services for Promotion of Education Concerning the Security of the United States 322 1960 Convention Aeromedical Transport Service 324 1960 Convention Government Loyalty and Security System be Reappraised 414 1960 Convention Support Aeronautical Educational Program for American Youth 480 1960 Convention National Guard Seminars on Communism 521 1960 Convention New Air Force Reserve Program 523 1960 Convention Distribution of Literature to Draftees by the Washington Young Friends (Quaker) 597 1960 Convention Encourage Utilization of Helicopters 602 1960 Convention Anti-Submarine Warfare 609 1960 Convention Support American Merchant Marine in Foreign Assistance Program 611 1960 Convention Arthur A. Duffy memorial tribute 4 1960 Pre-Conv Rescinding National Fuels Policy 41 1960 Spring Construction of a Prototype Community Fallout Shelter at Washington, D.C. Office Building of The American Legion 114 1961 Convention Oppose Reorganization of Class A Reserve Units 149 1961 Convention Psychological Warfare Units 151 1961 Convention Military Buildup of U.S. Armed Forces in Support of the President's Mobilization and Rearmament Program 171 1961 Convention Support the National Policy on Fallout Shelters 265 1961 Convention Military Air Transport Service 268 1961 Convention Oppose Depriving Retired Military Pay to Men Because of Being Under Age at Time of Enlistment 361 1961 Convention Urging Posts to Take an Active Role in Civil Defense 374 1961 Convention Psychological Warfare 465 1961 Convention Nuclear Tests be Resumed in the United States 515 1961 Convention Urging use of U.S. Armed Forces to Defeat Soviet Machinations and Military Power 546 1961 Convention Retention of All United States Navy Yards Urged 550 1961 Convention Alertness to the Soviet Threat 556 1961 Convention Encourage Utilization of Helicopters 557 1961 Convention Review of Procurement Policy Practices 558 1961 Convention Support Aeronautical Educational Program for American Youth 560 1961 Convention Wide Dissemination of the Film 'Communist Encirclement 1961' 55 1961 Spring Cold Warfare 16 1962 Convention Civil Defense 70 1962 Convention United States to Resume Nuclear Testing 88 1962 Convention United States to Resume Nuclear Testing 163 1962 Convention Commend Selective Service Personnel 174 1962 Convention Oppose Reduction in Strength and Realignment of National Guard and United States Army Reserve 267 1962 Convention Expedite Modernization of Equipment of the United States Army 291 1962 Convention Military Mission in Space 394 1962 Convention Jet Tanker KB-50 aircraft 456 1962 Convention Family Fallout Shelters 551 1962 Convention Continue the Special Committee on Uniform Code of Military Justice and Court of Military Appeals 588 1962 Convention Guarantee Security of United States Naval Base on Guantanamo Bay, Cuba 628 1962 Convention Commend National Guard and Reserve 633 1962 Convention Support Program of United States Army Assistance to Armed Forces of Less Developed Free Nations
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 119 635 1962 Convention Program for Gaining Appreciation and Understanding of the Role of Reserve Forces 637 1962 Convention Issuance of Honorable Discharges or Certificates of Service to Philippine commonwealth citizens who served with United States Army 644 1962 Convention Use of United States Registered Air Carriers 645 1962 Convention Aerospace Education Program 648 1962 Convention Pay of Recovery Unit Reservists 653 1962 Convention Commend the Office of Emergency Planning in Carrying Out Preparedness Measure 31 1962 Spring Oppose Reorganization of National Guard and Army Reserve And Keep U.S. Military Reserve Forces at Strengths Currently Authorized 33 1962 Spring America's free Competitive Industry as a Vital Component of our National Defense 21 1963 Convention Urging Armed Forces to Have a Uniform System of Deferment for Medical and Dental Students 79 1963 Convention Army Nurse Corps Program 104 1963 Convention Strengthen Civil Defense Program of the United States 117 1963 Convention Over-riding of Joint Chiefs of Staff Decisions by Civilian Elements of the U.S. Department of Defense 160 1963 Convention Strengthen Civil Defense Program of the United States 224 1963 Convention Support the President and Department of Defense in the Proposed Call to Active Duty of Military Reserve Units to Safeguard Our Nation Against Cuba 328 1963 Convention Tactical Air Command of the U.S. Air Force 332 1963 Convention Accelerate Anti-Missile Weapon System Development Program 432 1963 Convention Commend the Military Air Transport Service (mats) for Strengthening the Nation's "Defense Posture" 481 1963 Convention Awards to Astronauts 529 1963 Convention Increase the Benefits of United States Armed Forces Personnel 550 1963 Convention Report of President's Committee on Equal Opportunity in the Armed Forces 553 1963 Convention Aerospace Education Program 555 1963 Convention Military Pay Bill 563 1963 Convention Support the National Guard and the Organized Reserves 1 1963 Spring Commend Constructive Work of American Security Council 248 1964 Convention Uphold and Support All Authorities Charged with Enforcement of our Laws 249 1964 Convention Provide Fallout Protection Facilities in Future Federal Buildings Being Built 275 1964 Convention Support U.S. Air Force in its Tactical Air Operations 292 1964 Convention Maintain System of U.S. Inland Waterways 328 1964 Convention Create a Ribbon Bar Characteristic of the American Legion ROTC Cadet Corps Award for Awardees of the Medal 426 1964 Convention Support the Reserve Officers Training Program 519 1964 Convention Continue Special Subcommittee on Uniform Code of Military Justice and Court of Military Appeals 575 1964 Convention Cold War 633 1964 Convention Civilian Employment of Members of Reserve Components 37 1964 Spring Report of President's Committee on Equal Opportunity in the Armed Forces, (Gesell report) 289 1965 Convention Urge Department of Defense to Reorient Position by Abandoning Military Parity attitude with Respect to the Soviet Union 297 1965 Convention Support Reserve Officers Training Corps Program 299 1965 Convention Use of Air Weapons Against Unrestricted Targets in Vietnam 368 1965 Convention Fallout Shelter Program 397 1965 Convention Protesting the Closing of U.S. Military Bases Around the World
120 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 517 1965 Convention Department of Defense Notification to Next-of-Kin about the Death of a member of Our United States Armed Forces 518 1965 Convention United States and its Allies Assume the Offensive in the Cold War 522 1965 Convention Commemoration of the 20th Anniversary of the USAF by Designating September 18, 1965, as 'Air Force Day' 587 1965 Convention Proposed Realignment of U.S. Army Reserve Components 590 1965 Convention Establish Committee to Study the Material and Logistic Requirements of Armed Forces 7 1965 Pre-Conv Roscoe Turner Plaque 48 1965 Spring Renewal of Disaster Relief Agreement Between the American Legion and National Red Cross 13 1966 Fall Reopening of Naval Repair Facility at San Diego, California 22 1966 Fall Maintenance of United States Armed Services 36 1966 Convention Support of Law Enforcement Authority and the Maintenance of Law and Order 122 1966 Convention Asking Department of the Army to Base the Rank of ROTC Graduate on the Date upon which they are Called to Active Duty 123 1966 Convention Urging Department of Defense to Inaugurate a Program which Men may be Inducted into Service Under Lower Standards of Acceptability and Given such Academic Training and Rehabilitation as to Qualify them for Military Service 132 1966 Convention American Legion Blood Donor Program 265 1966 Convention Advanced Manned Interceptor Aircraft 267 1966 Convention United States Space Program Supported 270 1966 Convention National Crime Information Center 367 1966 Convention Urging the Justice Department to Prosecute Individuals who Publicly Burn or Destroy their Draft Cards 431 1966 Convention Demonstrations within the United States Against Government Policy on Vietnam Opposed 432 1966 Convention Police Review Boards 465 1966 Convention Enact Legislation Pertaining to Recovery of Erroneous Payments made by United States Armed Forces to Servicemen or their Dependents 544 1966 Convention Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz Memorial Naval Museum at Federicksburg, Texas 546 1966 Convention Equalization of Retirement Pay for Members of Armed Forces 655 1966 Convention Continue Special Subcommittee on Uniform Code of Military Justice and Court of Military Appeals 691 1966 Convention Community Fallout Shelter Program 702 1966 Convention Informing the Clergy of all Faiths about Problems of the Police And Law Enforcement Officials 705 1966 Convention CX-2 Aeronautical Evacuation Aircraft 708 1966 Convention Presidential Authority for Call-Up of Reservists 5 1966 Spring Name Next Nuclear Aircraft Carrier for the Late Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz 21 1966 Spring Reserve Training 22 1966 Spring Defense Department Policy in Vietnam 18 1967 Convention Civil Defense Program 127 1967 Convention B-22 and B-58 Bombers 129 1967 Convention Supersonic Aircraft Transport Program 130 1967 Convention Reaffirm Support of Aerospace Educational Program for American Youth 131 1967 Convention Provide Modern Material and Logistical Support to United States Armed Forces 182 1967 Convention Commendations for United States Air Force Logistic Command 227 1967 Convention National Crime Information Center 231 1967 Convention Advanced Manned Strategic Aircraft 233 1967 Convention Tactical Aircraft
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 121 234 1967 Convention Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard 235 1967 Convention Equipping of Air Reserve Forces Units 416 1967 Convention Riots 448 1967 Convention Civil Disobedience 498 1967 Convention Police Review Boards and Support of Police in their Efforts to Maintain Law and Order 561 1967 Convention Continuation of Licensing, Marketing and Stocking of Public Fallout Shelters 563 1967 Convention New Fighter Aircraft 571 1967 Convention Performance of Reserve Components on Riot Duty 576 1967 Convention Military Support of NATO 22 1967 Spring Appreciation to the United States Lines for Designation of New Cargo Ship the 'S.S. American Legion' 147 1968 Convention Participation in Survival Training Course 223 1968 Convention Aid and Support Organizations Municipalities and States by Military Resources 553 1968 Convention Honoring R. Admiral Gordon Mclintock USN 554 1968 Convention Henry C. Parke 559 1968 Convention Reaffirm Support of Aerospace Educational Program Youth 561 1968 Convention Shelter in Schools 3 1968 Spring Cold War Discharge Lapel Button 61 1968 Spring Air Force Base Closings 4 1969 Fall Astronaut Monument 63 1969 Convention Lt. General Lewis B. Hershey, Director U.S. Selective Service System Commended 152 1969 Convention Increase the Amount of Purchase which Can be Made at U.S. Military Post and Base Exchanges and Commissaries in the Republic of the Philippines by Qualified Veterans 172 1969 Convention Promotion of Junior ROTC in High Schools 174 1969 Convention Draft Evaders and/or Deserters 185 1969 Convention Designation of Permanent Status to U.S. Army Valley Forge General Hospital 240 1969 Convention Vietnam 293 1969 Convention U.S. Armed Forces Nurses Program 506 1969 Convention Support of Law Enforcement Officers and Organizations 508 1969 Convention Recognition and Commendation of Student Organizations Dedicated to Oppose and Control Unlawful Interference with the Educational Process 519 1969 Convention Shelter in Schools 522 1969 Convention Civil Defense Community Action 523 1969 Convention Civil Defense Surplus Property Priority 527 1969 Convention Military-Industrial Complex 10 1969 Spring Cold War Discharge Lapel Button 15 1969 Spring Maintenance of Superior Defenses of the United States 42 1969 Spring Adequate Equipment for All Elements of Reserve Components 4 March Special Deployment of an Anti-Ballistic Missile System 1969 5 1970 Fall Discipline in the United States Armed Forces 6 1970 Fall Support a Program for the Treatment and Rehabilitation of Military Personnel who Have Become Addicted to Habit-Forming Drugs 260 1970 Convention Fallout Shelter Program for Schools 335 1970 Convention Ask National Commander to Congratulate the Royal Canadian Legion for their Position on United States Draft Evaders and Deserters in Canada 432 1970 Convention Civil Defense Curriculum in Public Schools 585 1970 Convention Reaffirm Support of Aerospace Education Program for Youth 586 1970 Convention Support the USO 30th Anniversary Observance
122 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 587 1970 Convention Office of Civil Defense Responsibility 591 1970 Convention Operation Helping Hand 611 1970 Convention Commend Depart of Minnesota for ROTC efforts 130 1971 Convention Commend the Reserve Officers Association on 50th Anniversary 139 1971 Convention Pentagon Papers Case 145 1971 Convention Oil Exploration and Development Program in Alaska 170 1971 Convention Military Information Centers be Designated in Each State to Assist Discharged Veterans with Carry-Over Military Problems 305 1971 Convention Support President of the United States in Efforts to Preserve the National Security of the Country 328 1971 Convention Reaffirm Support of Aerospace Education Program for Youth 348 1971 Convention Enforcement of Laws Pertaining to the Wearing of the Uniform and Insignia by the Military Forces 384 1971 Convention Create an American Legion National Police Cadet Program 416 1971 Convention Lt. William L. Calley, Jr. Case 624 1971 Convention Separate Civil Defense Department 625 1971 Convention Surplus and Excess Property 20 1971 Spring Lt. William L. Calley, Jr., Case 22 1971 Spring Reorder National Priorities 7 1972 Fall Disaster Relief Agreement Between The American National Red Cross, The American Legion and The American Legion Auxiliary 134 1972 Convention Reaffirm Support of Aerospace Education Program for the American Legion 149 1972 Convention F-15 aircraft 468 1972 Convention Essential Need for Trans-Alaska Pipeline 469 1972 Convention Greater Utilization of United States-F lag merchant vessels 492 1972 Convention Reserve Officers Availability to Defense Civil Preparedness Agency 493 1972 Convention Survival Training in the School System 494 1972 Convention A True Picture of our Defense Posture 495 1972 Convention Participation in Survival Training Courses 496 1972 Convention Recruiting Accomplishments of the United States Air Force 497 1972 Convention Congratulations to United States Air Force on 25th Anniversary 4 1973 Fall National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve 5 1973 Fall Cargo Sharing Essential to Rebirth of the American Merchant Marine 6 1973 Fall Drug Abuse 43 1973 Convention Commissary and Exchange Privileges for Minor Dependents Orphans of Deceased Members of the U.S. Armed Forces 66 1973 Convention Lt. William L. Calley Jr Case 147 1973 Convention Police Practice Committees and/or Police Review Boards 177 1973 Convention Promotion of United States Merchant Marine in Departments of the American Legion 183 1973 Convention Oppose Cutback in Services at General Military Hospital 210 1973 Convention Support of the Reserve Officers Training Corps 372 1973 Convention Expedite Payment of Pl 92-425 Program of Survivor Benefits for Military Personnel in Retirement 404 1973 Convention Oppose Enlisting Category IV Personnel Into Reserve Components for Education and Training 439 1973 Convention Recruiting Accomplishments of the United States Air Force 446 1973 Convention Greater Utilization of US Flag Merchant Vessels 27 1973 Spring Provide Death Penalty for Certain Crimes 90 1974 Convention United States Merchant Marine Fleet 91 1974 Convention Greater Utilization of U.S. Flag Merchant Vessels 192 1974 Convention National Guard and Army Reserve be Represented at the Chief of Staff Level of the Department of Defense
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 123 193 1974 Convention Reserve Forces on the Job Training Program be Implemented by the Department of Defense 233 1974 Convention Safeguarding the Security of the Nation 292 1974 Convention Commending the National Guard 376 1974 Convention National Aeronautics and Space Administration 408 1974 Convention Military Store System 429 1974 Convention Maintain Strength of United States Army 534 1974 Convention Cargo Sharing Essential to Rebirth of American Merchant Marine 535 1974 Convention Civil Preparedness in Schools 538 1974 Convention Civil Preparedness Mobilization Designees 22 1974 Spring Change Title of Civil Defense Committee to Defense Civil Preparedness Committee and Title of Civil Defense Subcommittee of Convention Committee on Security to Defense Civil Preparedness Subcommittee 150 1975 Convention Commending President Ford in Effecting the Return of the Merchant Ship Mayaguez 218 1975 Convention American Legion Support of the Military Service to Attain and Maintain an All Volunteer Force as Amended 309 1975 Convention Commending the United States Army on its 200th birthday June 14, 1975 349 1975 Convention Crime 433 1975 Convention Selective Service Registration 435 1975 Convention National Crime Resistance Program 16 1975 Spring American Blood Commission 17 1975 Spring Disaster Relief Agreement Between the American National Red Cross, the American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary 28 1975 Spring Future Military Policy of the United States 24 1976 Fall Urge the U.S. to Reestablish in the U.S. Canal Zone a U.S. Navy Special Service Squadron for Diplomatic Purposes 316 1976 Convention Reserve Forces Recruiting 332 1977 Convention United States Armed Forces Unionization 512 1977 Convention Curbing of Oil Spillage at Sea 330 1978 Convention Commend Major General Singlaub for his Actions for Country 523 1978 Convention Air Bases in Turkey 7 1980 Fall Critical Shortage of Medical Physicians Assistants in U.S. Armed Forces 35 1980 Fall Heavy Vertical Airlift Technology 107 1980 Convention Modernize the United States Navy 464 1980 Convention Air Launched Cruise Missile 754 1980 Convention Armed Forces Recruiting 255 1981 Convention Support a New G.I. Bill 308 1981 Convention Strategic Nuclear Forces 332 1981 Convention Commending U.S. Navy for its Stringent Alcohol and Drug Abuse Policy 431 1981 Convention National Defense 6 1981 Spring American Blood Commission 468 1982 Convention B-1 Bomber and Advanced Technology Bomber (ATB) 19 1983 Fall Fire Prevention/Protection Program 239 1984 Convention Support Total Force Policy 44 1985 Convention Sponsor Legislation to Designate the Name of Tomb of the Unknown in Arlington National Cemetery 287 1986 Convention Commending the Department of Defense in Curbing Waste, Fraud, and Abuse 436 1986 Convention Reserve Mobile Van Support Units 440 1986 Convention Utilization of Merchant Marine Fleet 452 1986 Convention President's Action Under War Powers Act 444 1987 Convention Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) 6 1988 Convention Maintaining a Strong Intelligence Community for the U.S.
124 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 51 1988 Convention Strategic Nuclear Policy 358 1988 Convention Merchant Marine Reserve Fleet 360 1988 Convention Anti-Satellite Weapon 368 1988 Convention Procurement of Additional Space Launch Vehicles 369 1988 Convention Support of the President's Five Year Defense Plan 360 1988 Convention Modernize the U.S. Air Force 371 1988 Convention Military Pay and Quality of Life 507 1988 Convention Federal Academy Awards 508 1988 Convention United States Tall Ship 509 1988 Convention Space Education 515 1988 Convention Support of National Guard Service 14 1988 Spring Naval Aircraft Carrier to be Named after Harry S. Truman 3 1989 Fall Posthumous DoD Awards 19 1989 Fall Purple Hearts for DoD Civilians 22 1989 Fall 9 Millimeter Berretta Service Pistols 196 1989 Convention Air Force Science and Technology Programs 18 1989 Spring Exempt from Income Taxes Rewards Paid by Crime Stoppers 13 1990 Fall Prepotency for the Junior Law Cadet Law & Order Program 86 1990 Convention Champus/Champva Entitlement 357 1990 Convention Arapaho (United States Navy and Marine Corps) 382 1990 Convention ROTC Fitness Standards 598 1990 Convention United States Tall Ship 1 1990 Spring Operation Just Cause in Panama 4 1990 Spring Certified Medical Records for Discharging Service Members 25 1991 Convention Development of Natural Resources 32 1991 Convention Intelligence Community 36 1991 Convention USS American Legion 144 1991 Convention Penalties for Refusal to Fulfill Military Obligations 288 1991 Convention Support for the Family Protection Program of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) 22 1992 Fall Rendering Military Honors to Deceased Veterans 100 1992 Convention Curtailment of Additional Wilderness Areas 183 1992 Convention Rebuild the Merchant Marine 190 1992 Convention Maintain America's Vigilance 200 1992 Convention Improving Combat Readiness of Army National Guard Combat Units 207 1992 Convention Foreign Investments in Defense Industries 553 1992 Convention Support For United States Naval Aviation 16 1993 Fall Funding Replacement Training Ships for Maritime Academies 62 1993 Convention Command and Control of the Army Reserve 14 1993 Spring American Legion Annual Awards to Five Federal Academies 261 1994 Convention Integrated National Industrial Base 416 1994 Convention Service of Women in the Armed Forces 104 1996 Convention Maintain the Military Strength of the Armed Forces 155 1996 Convention The Honorable Nature of Military Service 208 1996 Convention Protection of United State Military Personnel 212 1997 Convention Cohesion within the Army's Active and Reserve Components 19 1998 Fall Energy Awareness Month 177 1998 Convention Foreign Investments in American Defense Industries 185 2004 Convention Service of Women in the Armed Forces
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBER KILE: This resolution has been approved by your National Security Commission, your Resolutions Subcommittee, and I so move. …Second NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You heard the motion and a second to approve resolution number 27. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed. Carried.
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 125 RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBER KILE: Attached to the report is Addendum A, and I move the action of the National Security Commission become the action of the NEC. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and the second that Addendum A become the action of the NEC. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried. Thank you Michael. Great job. The Chair recognizes Past National Commander William Detweiler, of Louisiana, chairman of the Ad Hoc Committee on TBI/PTS.
Oral Report: Ad Hoc Committee for Traumatic Brain Injury/Post Traumatic Stress Past National Commander William M. Detweiler, Louisiana, Chairman
Thank you very much, Mr. Commander. I buttoned my coat and I'll smile. You know, I think all of us here had an opportunity to know John and work with him. That was the criticism when I was considered for National Vice Commander: You got to smile. You been frowning for too many years in those courtrooms and playing poker. You can't do that anymore. So he was a great mentor. On your desk you have a copy of the ad hoc committee report. It's an interim report. It's an outline really; we tried to set out some bullet points to what we have found to date. Let me just give you a little bit of an interim report. In 2010 the Traumatic Brain Injury and Post Traumatic Stress Ad Hoc Committee was appointed by National Commander Foster, under the authority of resolution 13 from the 2010 Fall NEC Meeting. The purpose of the committee is to, "Investigate the existing science and procedures, as well as alternative methods, for treating Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Post Traumatic Stress (PTS) not currently being employed by the Department of Defense and/or the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for the purpose of determining if such alternative treatments are practical and efficacious." To support the resolution, the committee in its first meeting last year developed the following mission statement. "The TBI/PTS Ad Hoc Committee collects relevant information on approved and innovative, nontraditional, treatment methods for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Post Traumatic Stress (PTS)". It was to prepare and present its preliminary findings at the Spring NEC meeting, and to make recommendations for American Legion policy and staff actions for enhancing VA and DoD methods for treating and preventing both injuries, in order to improve health care and quality of life to service members, veterans and their families, and to reduce the incidences of suicide, homelessness, substance abuse, and other effects among servicemembers and veterans. To date, the committee has met three times formally as a committee. Members of the committee have attended various conferences, such as the Recovery Conference down in Orlando last December; the visit to Camp Atterbury yesterday. The staff, on numerous occasions, have attended briefings in and out of Washington and New York and elsewhere; down in Texas as well, trying to gather as much information as we possibly can. But in the three times that we have met, we have been briefed by DoD representatives, VA, Department of Labor reps, as well as experts from academia, and civilian and military medical professionals. This is the interim report of our findings to date. What have we learned? The primary treatment method across the agencies and branches of all service, both active and Reserve components, is on pain symptom management through drugs. Through drugs. It is in contrast to the concept of attempting to repair the damage and to make the patient well. All you got to do is give he or she a drug and they go away.
126 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 In many cases, particularly early on in the conflict, patients are told to get used to the new reality. You just have to live with the pain, depression or other symptoms and disabilities. One of the concerns of the committee, is that this is the easiest, and most cost effective way for DoD and VA to handle the problem: Just give them a few drugs. It's estimated and there's a concern in those departments, as well as the Congress, that to treat a patient or an individual with PTS and/or TBI, may be as much as $500,000 over his or her lifetime. That's scary, as far as the money providers are concerned. To be fair, in both DoD and VA, there has been an attempt to change focus in the attempt to treat the illness, through methods such as cognitive therapy and a resilience training cycle. However, we have found that in many cases, what is extolled or broadcast at the highest levels of these departments as the official policy, does not translate to the actual actions on the ground. There does not seem to be a real mechanism within either the DoD or VA for accountability, quality control of the programs, treatment, or peer review of best practices. This being the case, facilities and physicians are free to utilize what works best for them due to budgetary or staffing conditions. And in some cases, what's the bias of the physician as to what treatment is accepted or used. The committee found that there is a shortage of mental health professionals in both DoD and VA, and that it has been reported by a number of individuals, that funds from mental health programs have been diverted to the VA's number one priority, which is now homelessness. The shortage of professional staff and facilities has led to a high percentage of frustrated individuals due to a large patient workload, combined with highly stressful and complex situations and suffering themselves, that is, the staff, are beginning to suffer from empathy burnout, and in many cases, from PTS. This will potentially lead to the drug solution in order to control the maximum number of patients when healing them is too time consuming. This leads to prescription drug abuse, and potentially increases the chance of suicide. The Army for example, in a recent study on suicides, found that due to multiple deployments and the need to keep the soldiers in the fight, we can't give you time off, come on back and so forth, one third of the force, one third of the force is now on some type of prescriptive medicine. During these interviews, the committee found that the service branches are handling their TBI/PTS issues separately, and with different levels of success. The Army by far has the most sufferers, has the largest problems. In particular, there remains a stigma about looking for help or treatment. Even with the "Real Warriors" campaign, and statements by the chief of staff concerning success in reducing the stigma, the committee found that servicemembers are still concerned with the impact on careers if they request help. It is also admitted by DoD that there are some highly technical and high risk positions such as those in nuclear submarines where individuals would be banned from serving until they are absolutely clear of any symptoms of these injuries. Further, the return to duty procedures after a TBI event and the redeployment policy of the Department of Defense, needs additional study. During interviews, it was found that in some cases individuals who had recently suffered a TBI, again depending on the severity, were told to shake it off and return to duty within a few hours. Sometimes the individual will receive an additional injury, and recent studies show that repetitive injuries from even mild concussions will cause severe and permanent damage or even death. There has been an effort to train combat leaders on the extended effects of TBI, and there are procedures for closer examination and additional downtime of up to 72 hours before returning to duty. However, a briefing by the Canadian Medical Attaché to the United States, while we were in Washington, showed that they hold individuals, Canadians, from duty who, after they suffer injury from a blast, up to as long as 30 days. Now, we understand that our forces are much larger than what the Canadians are dealing with. But, it's obvious that we
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 127 need to do more and do a better job of giving these people time to decompress after such an injury. Another weak point is the DoD tracking of returning warriors. While there is a post- deployment analysis done on each returning warrior about injuries and TBI/PTS related issues, the onus is on the individual for the most part to ask for help. There is an understanding that if you positively need help and ask for it, you may have to stay in the demobilization sites longer, and that will prevent you from going home quicker. And we all know about that. If you admit you've got a problem, you have to stay around, and the first thing they do is ask you do you want to get some treatment or do you want to go home? If you haven't seen your family in "x" number of months, you what's going to be the answer? You want to go home. Additionally, there is little or no follow-up, or assistance, especially in rural areas for Reserve personnel. Contrasted again with the Canadian effort, where the commander of the unit is responsible for 30, 60, 90 day checks, and sometimes one year follow-ups, for every individual in his or her command, including the individual Reserve augmentees. To expand on this a little bit, you travel with the unit, you come back with the unit, you stick with the unit, chances are you're going to get better care. But, if you're attached to a unit and you come home and the unit comes back to its base, you go back to your home, general thing is, we'll give you 90 days worth of narcotics and see you later. We can't do that. There's very little supervision. Now, what's our recommendations? We have not really reached a point yet of coming up with a lot of recommendations, but some things we know. This should be considered, as I said, an interim report. The state of the science is changing on a daily basis. The committee will continue to study new technologies for the balance of its term, and will recommend that the committee be reappointed by our next national commander for 2012. The committee has received several briefings on treatment methods such as hyperbaric oxygen treatments for TBI, where elevated levels of oxygen are utilized to enhance the healing process of the brain, similar to the process that's used for the treatment of other wounds such as diabetic sores that will not heal, and decompression illnesses suffered by divers. And virtual reality is being used where stress levels are slowly increased in a virtual world, and the patients are taught to deal with the stress in order to avoid a PTS incident in the real world. There are numerous other therapies that are being tried, and at this point there is not enough evidence for the committee to pursue one strongly. There is no silver bullet, and based on what we know today, one cure, or one method of medical protocol does not fit all. So, it's very early at this time to try to make any recommendations. Let me say that things are changing. As I said, they change on a daily basis, but as an example of how quickly the treatment landscape is changing, in a recent briefing, as recent as last week, attended by our staff, we learned the Marine Corps is now offering hyperbaric oxygen therapy at both Camp Lejeune and at Camp Pendleton to returning troops who have been diagnosed with TBI/PTS. As of now, it is not being prescribed as a method of treatment, but it's being offered. If you want it, it's available. I think in a short time that that will change as the positive effects of this treatment spreads among the patients, and among the families, as they see improvements in their loved ones from receiving the treatment. We discussed, as I said, a number of resolutions, but we're not in a position to come forward at this time and offer those resolutions for your consideration. You did pass one this morning, that was number 36, and that dealt with improvements needed for the Department of Veterans Affairs, benefits for veterans who have served in combat theater. That resolution comes through a discussion that we have had indicating that an individual who does not have a combat MOS, he's in theater, he's pulled into a situation where the vehicle needs five members. One of them is not available, so they pull somebody in that
128 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 doesn't necessarily have that MOS, but that individual goes out with that unit; there's a blast, and suffers an injury. And as a result of that, there may be some question later on, either through DoD or VA, well, you didn't have a combat MOS, so, you know, you couldn't possibly have an injury; either TBI or PTS. So, that resolution I think covers that. And there are other things that we're discovering. We know that there are problems, for example, with the HIPPA requirements for treatment. All those restrictions that have been passed by Congress in recent years dealing with privacy of your medical records, and one of the things we are learning, and I've indicated that in the report, that most of these professionals say that when they treat somebody with either TBI or PTS, that they really need to treat the family. You've got to treat the family because we have had the opportunity to talk to members of families; talk to the spouse; talk to relatives, and you've got to deal with the whole family, because these people really need help. They're not in a position necessarily to make the critical decisions dealing with their health care. So, I want to thank at this time, Mr. Commander, our two division directors who are working closely with us and have done an outstanding job, they've done a tremendous amount of research, and this stuff is changing so quickly and there's so many different briefings going on around the country, and we're trying to cover as much as we can, and we can't do that necessarily with the committee, but the staff is doing its best, and that's our Director of VA&R Verna Jones is with us, and Barry Searle is here. Please stand up. They've done a great job. And I don't see them necessarily in the room but, I have to acknowledge the work that Jeff Stoffer of our magazine and Steve Brooks. I think in the first part of May Steve gets to go home two days in the next 12 to 14 days. He's just constantly traveling and constantly writing, and please pay attention to the website and to the magazine. A lot of good things are happening. A lot of good coverage is coming out. And Mr. Commander, that's our report to date, and we look forward in coming back with some well thought out resolutions and offer those. (Applause)
Report: Ad Hoc Committee for Traumatic Brain Injury/Post Traumatic Stress PNC William M. Detweiler, Louisiana, Chairman May 3, 2011
Report Outline
Section I. What We Know and Have Learned: 1. Primary treatment across the agencies and branches of service (active, reserve and guard) is pain management rather than symptom treatment (drugs). a. There is every indication that the pharmacology approach is not the answer - may be causing more problems and leading to suicides out of frustrations – b. An Army report in 2010 on suicides found that 1/3 of the force was on at least one prescriptive drug. 2. Deployments of the same soldiers do not allow sufficient time between deployments for the average soldier to "decompress. We have found through our research that the Canadians have a much more robust follow-up procedures and additional down time between deployments. 3. There is a shortage of mental health professionals in both DOD and VA. There have been reports that funds have been cut from mental health budgets to support the homeless priority of the secretary. a. There is little supervision of vets and soldiers taking their prescribed drugs (narcotics) - particularly vets who have left active duty and are not
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 129 Reservists or National Guardsmen. They return home from combat and are given up to a 90 day supply of narcotics, and are told not to report back for training for 30 to 90 days. b. Again using Canada as an example the soldier's commander is required to track reserve personnel home and do follow up checks on progress in re- socializing at 30 and 90 days and 1 year. DOD says it has a hard time finding our soldiers. 4. Widespread "survivor guilt" prevails in the soldiers who saw combat and have PTS and/or TBI. Treating a combat vet with TBI/PTS is not the same as treating a civilian. a. Stigma is still prevalent even with the real warriors campaign in place it was admitted that acknowledging a problem can impact careers. b. The Army seems to be utilizing a significant amount of sound bites and buzz words such as "cycle of resiliency" but they do not necessary translate to actual activity. 5. A seamless transition from DOD to VA does not exist system wide. 6. Personnel in transition units are not properly trained. a. They are working in highly stressful and complex duty. b. The staffers need to be checked for pts. c. The caseloads are too large. d. Many of them are not combat veterans so in many cases they cannot emphasize with the wounded.
Section II. What is the Department of Defense doing - Treatments being used: We are unable at this point to give you a complete list of what treatments are being used by the Department of Defense to treat members of the military diagnosed or complaining of post traumatic stress and/or traumatic brain injuries. However, we do know the following: 1. While in theater, soldiers with PTS/TRI symptoms are examined, treated generally with drugs and given some time off from their units, usually 72 hours to a week. 2. Four wounded transition units are now working in the combat zones to quickly evaluate, diagnose and recommend treatment or evacuation of members suffering from these injuries. 3. Following deployment, the solider is returned, unless seriously wounded and requiring hospital care, to their families, with little or no follow up care, unless requested. 4. The military physicians tend to emphasize the use of psychological drug therapy. 5. Attached members (members who were added to a unit) are sent home with little or no follow up care or contact from the unit, particularly members of the reserve and National Guard who are attached to a unit. 6. Families are not regularly included in the treatment of the member. 7. Some military hospitals are using cognitive therapy, but is considered too expensive for wide spread use. 8. Group psychiatric care is being used in most locals. 9. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy treatment is being used in some hospitals. 10. Battle mind resilience training and pre deployment evaluations have been implemented to determine the mental health of a solider before he or she is deployed. Families are included in this effort. 11. Warrior transition units have been established in 8 locations around the country. The WTUs provide a triad method of care - squad leader, social worker and health care provider. 12. The National Intrepid Center of Excellence has been established with private funding at Bethesda Navy Medical Center.
130 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 Current Department Defense Research Projects Include: 1. Use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy 2. Various drug protocols 3. Cognitive therapy initiatives 4. Public/private initiatives similar to the center for excellence and the intrepid fallen heroes fund project
Section III. What is the Department of Veterans Affairs doing - current treatments: 1. VA physicians tend to emphasize the use of psychological drug therapy. 2. Group psychiatric therapy is widely used, however due to budget constraints; the group meetings are widely spaced. 3. The VA has established the veterans justice outreach of PTS veterans who are charged and convicted with various crimes. 4. The homeless veterans programs of the VA have been enhanced with funding due to the personal concern of the secretary to reach out to these men and women, many of whom are suffering from pts and possibly TBI. 5. There is some use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy treatment. 6. There is some use of cognitive therapy 7. There is some use of "simulated activity" treatment to transition veterans back into society. 8. Rehabilitative treatment includes job training, counseling, and work with the families to assist the veteran toward a normal life in society.
Section IV. What is Our Future Course of Action to Fulfill the Mission of the Ad- Hoc Committee We need to continue to request briefings from the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans affairs to get a better understanding as to the treatments and medical protocols that are being used in each system. There does not appear to be a simple answer as to what treatment or treatments are most effective in the treatment of TBI and PTS. For the most part, the medical community is treating an "unknown." One form of treatment does not fit all. Treating physicians have their "preferences or biases" and refuse to consider some of the so called "alternative" treatments, such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy and bio feedback. Several new initiatives have begun since the ad hoc committee was formed, and the committee needs to be briefed on these efforts.
Section V. What Legislation Should the Legion Propose to Insure the Proper Care of Soldiers Suffering with TBI and PTS Injuries? Currently, House Resolution 396 by Representatives Platts and Paswell is pending in the House. This is the same bill that was previously proposed in the last Congress. The "elephant in the room" is clearly the cost of treatment. There have been statements made that the cost of treating a patient with TBI and/or PTS may be as high as $500,000.00 per patient. So currently, it appears that Congress would rather study the issue to death than face the reality that more funds are needed to cover the treatment and to provide the needed research to provide the best in medical care for members suffering with these injuries. Further, we should recommend that funding be provided for independent evaluation and testing of some of the more promising so called "alternative" methods of treatment. There are indications that the studies of some of these treatments are not being fairly evaluated by the medical staffs of the VA and DOD hospitals and clinics were they are being tested.
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 131 The committee believes that it is too early for the committee to make a recommendation on treatment legislation. However, the committee has submitted to the National Security and Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation committees a resolution advocating legislation which address "stove piping" of information concerning patient care across federal entities. The committee also recommends the American Legion support the need for increased funding of more mental health care professionals, in theater for the evaluation and treatment of TBI and PTS injuries. Finally there should be longer periods of time to "decompress" immediately after the injury, and a longer time between deployments for injured service members. The committee did author a press release concerning cogitative rehabilitation. The issue was that both DOD and VA utilize the treatment but Tricare refuses to pay for it. The committee also submitted a request to Congress for a hearing to understand why Tricare is not paying. The result is that there was a promise to hold a hearing and Tricare has commissioned additional trials to determine effectiveness. We believe that this was in no small part to the American Legion's efforts.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: Mr. Commander, I make a motion to receive and file the report of the TBI/PTS Ad Hoc Committee. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Motion on the floor to receive and file the report of the ad hoc committee. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried. Thank you, Commander Detweiler for your expert work and your staff. Thank you very much. Let's give them a hand. (Applause) At this time the Chair recognizes Harold Dale Barnett of Georgia for the Economic Commission report.
Oral Report: Economic Commission Harold D. Barnett, Georgia, Chairman
Commander Foster, members of the NEC, fellow Legionnaires. I thank you for this opportunity to highlight the activities of your National Economic Commission. You do have two resolutions that will be coming forward. They are in your packet. One is resolution 28 which deals with encouraging VA to grant military occupational specialty training towards credit for certification within the VA. A second is resolution number 30 which supports a national economic website for veterans which will assist our veterans in finding job listings from the network of veteran-friendly employers. There's been a lot of discussion throughout the country about unemployment figures, and unfortunately unemployment figures for our returning veterans are higher than the national average. The American Legion will continue to assist veterans and their families in their transition to employment through our Career Fairs, that we hold, our Small Business Development Workshops that we've been holding in conjunction with our Washington Conference and our National Convention. Of note, I encourage each and every department to advertise this to your veterans, encourage them to stop by in our Minneapolis Convention to visit both our Small Business Development Workshop, and our Job Fair that we'll be having in Minneapolis. In the area of employment awards, this year we received 97 awards from across The American Legion. We commend those departments that are encouraging their employers to hire veterans, and promote Job Fairs. We encourage all departments to go back and hopefully next year we can increase that number. The listing of winners is within your packet, and we commend all those winners that are listed in your handout.
132 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 In the area of education, in conjunction with our Washington Conference, we held a one day seminar, "Veterans on Campus." I want to thank Past National Commander Robert Spanogle, for his assistance. It was an incredible day to reach out to those young veterans who told us all sorts of issues about transitioning from the uniform into the classroom and university. Unique problems of women veterans entering into that, problems that they might have in the implementation of the new GI Bill as far as receiving their benefits on a timely basis, which by the way, has gotten better. And they have also did a critique of our Veterans Service Organization and how we could better serve this young generation that is returning from theater. In the area of business things, we are going to have, as I said, several top experts from the public and private sector that can provide information on how to start and maintain successful businesses. They will be able to hear pertinent information that gives them insight in how to penetrate the myriad of Federal regulations on getting into the Federal marketplace and getting Federal contracts. And it is complicated, but if you've got veterans that are interested in that, it's free, because similar seminars like that would cost hundreds of dollars. We provide that service through the action of our director and deputy director and our staff at our national headquarters in doing that. So, I would encourage you again to see if you can get some of your veterans from within our departments to go. In the area of Heroes to Hometowns, I think that's an area that we need to look at in each and every department, some way that you can ensure that we're getting the follow- up down at that level. We can give requests down to department, the department can give it to the appropriate people. But we've got to get some type of action to where we're getting follow-up so we can give that support as the previous briefer just talked about, that we need to make sure that we are providing the services to those returning veterans when they go to small town America. That's where we do it the best. In the introductory remarks this morning, Commander Foster talked about homelessness and the VA's attempt to end homelessness in America. We did have a seminar at our Washington Conference bringing in several key Federal agencies that gave us an outstanding update, plus the interface that those agencies had the opportunity because we facilitated that discussion. By their numbers, there are approximately 136,000 homeless veterans on the streets on any given night in America. And we must, as The American Legion, take a leadership role within our local communities to volunteer, continue our fundraising efforts. And I will tell you, that those agencies told us that we really are important to that action. We do a fantastic job, and they commended us on that. So, we continue to bring in Federal agencies, nonprofit organizations, faith-based organizations and other stakeholders to the table, to try to assist families in need, veterans families in need, to obtain the necessary care and help in order to help them properly transition from the streets to positive employment and independent living. In conclusion, the National Economic Commission stands ready to assist each and every one of your departments to establish Job Fairs, Small Business Development Workshops, to assist individual Legionnaires in the area of employment and other areas of interest. We deeply appreciate the support of National Commander Jimmie Foster for what he has done for us and the support he continues to give us. The staff has given us invaluable care. I thank especially Director Joseph Sharpe and Deputy Director Mark Walker, for their support. And commander, this concludes my report.
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 133 Advance Report: Economic Commission April 18, 2011 Harold D. Barnett, Georgia, Chairman
Members and guests of the National Economic Commission and its two standing committees on Employment and Veterans Preference met at the Renaissance Hotel in Washington, D.C., on Monday, March 1 and Wednesday, March 3, 2010. Those meetings were held in conjunction with the Fiftieth Annual Washington Conference. In addition, a Career Fair hosted with RecruitMilitary was conducted on Thursday, February 25, 2010, a Homeless Veterans Workshop was conducted on Friday, February 26, 2010, and the Veterans' on Campus Seminar met on Sunday, February 28, 2010, to discuss the Commission's ongoing initiative to assist veterans with a successful transition from active-duty to colleges/universities campuses across the country. An Awards Selection Subcommittee composed of members of the Economic Commission and its two committees met on Tuesday, March 2, 2010, for the purpose of selecting the national winners and runners-up in the commission's two national awards programs. Finally, the Small Business Task Force hosted a Business Development Workshop at the Renaissance Hotel in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, March 2, 2010, followed by a networking social to end the day. A synopsis of the meetings follows: I. Career Fair The National Economic Commission of The American Legion partnered with RecruitMilitary to host a Career Fair on Thursday, February 25, 2010, in the Renaissance Ballroom, Renaissance Hotel, Washington, D.C. This event started with an opening ceremony, which included Matthew Murphy from RecruitMilitary, Ronald Drach, Director, Government & Legislative Affairs of DOL-VETS, and Randall Fisher, National Economic Commission Chairman. There were 32 employers from various industries and over 200 attendees that participated in the Career Fair. The American Legion manned two tables at this event. One table lead by Andrew Tramontana, H2H Program Coordinator, discussed how H2H assists veterans with reintegrating back to their local communities and the other was manned by Legionnaires of the Department of Washington, D.C., who answered veterans' questions about benefits and described the Legion's programs as well as explained how to become a member of The American Legion. Most importantly, the employers and participants at this event were pleased with the outcome. The employers stated that the participants were professional and well-qualified. The participants liked the fact that employers were from different industries and willing to hire veterans. The American Legion along with RecruitMilitary will continue to make this an annual event at the Washington Conference. II. Homeless Veterans Providers Workshop The National Economic Commission of The American Legion held an extremely successful homeless veterans providers workshop on Friday, February 26, 2010, in Meeting Room 4, Meeting Room Level, Renaissance Hotel, Washington, DC: training was given to all attendees so they could operate a "train the trainer" program back at their Post and to take valuable information back to their respective departments and share with other members of The American Legion. The one-day free workshop had experts from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) , the Department of Labor (DOL) the Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) and the National Guard and Reserve Benefits; specifically, Mary O'Malley, Special Populations Manager, VA, Gordon Burke, Director of Operations, Grants, and Transition Programs, DOL, Cynthia High, Special needs Assistance Program Specialist (HUD) and William Sermons, Director, National Alliance to End Homeless. During the workshop it was noted that VA estimates nearly 131,000 homeless veterans on any given night. Approximately 250,000
134 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 will experience homelessness during the year. VA is taking decisive action toward its goal of ending homelessness among our Nation's veterans. To achieve this goal, VA has developed a Five-Year Plan to assist every homeless veteran willing to accept services retain or acquire: safe housing; needed treatment services; opportunities to retain or return to employment; and benefits assistance. VA will continue to partner with the community, national and local service providers, and other state and Federal agencies to provide comprehensive care to homeless veterans and veterans at-risk for homelessness. Also mentioned was the successful Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program (HVRP) within the Department of Labor's Veterans Employment and Training Services (DOL- VETS). HVRP is the only nationwide program focused on assisting homeless veterans to reintegrate into the workforce. This program is a highly successful grant program that needs to be fully funded at $50 million. Currently, HVRP is funded at $41 million. Among other matters, classes were taught on how to successfully engage the homeless veteran issue in the local community and how to successfully execute a Stand Down. III. Veterans' On Campus Seminar The National Economic Commission hosted a one-day seminar titled: "Veterans On Campus" on Sunday, February 28, 2010 in the Grand Ballroom South, Lower Level at the Renaissance Hotel, Washington, D.C. "Veterans On Campus" was designed to reach out to Academia, Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs) and student veterans on how Academia and VSOs can assist this younger generation in transitioning from military to college life. This event attracted over 100 guests who listened to a variety of issues. The seminar was opened with discussion from keynote speakers: Maj. Gen. Michael Lehnert (USMC Ret.) and Admiral Ted Gordon, along with Past National Commander and National Adjutant, Robert Spanogle. In addition, Dr. Doug Hermann gave a presentation on making veterans a protected class on campus. There were 5 panels that discussed transitioning challenges for veterans returning to school. The panels were: 1) an opening panel from representatives from The American Legion, Vietnam Veterans Institute and Student Veterans of America (SVA); 2) a student veteran panel, which included veterans from George Washington University, American University, University of the District of Columbia and Georgetown University; 3) Congressional Panel, which included staff members from both sides of the House Veterans Affairs Committee and the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee; 4) VSO/University panel, which included individuals from VFW, MOAA and SVA, George Washington University, University of the District of Columbia and American University; 5) VA briefing by Keith Wilson. After each panel, the audience was invited to ask questions in order to better understand the problem student veterans are facing and how to address those problems and needs of veterans on campus. IV. National Economic Commission Forum The National Economic Commission assembled in Meeting Rooms 10-11, Meeting Room Level, Renaissance Hotel, Washington, DC, to hear speakers on topics of interest to the commission members. The main focus of the morning's session was veterans' employment concerns. The first speaker was John McWilliam, Deputy Assistant Secretary, U.S. Department of Labor, who gave the audience an overview of DOL-VETS recent activities. He stated that about 160,000 service members return to civilian status each year. Mr. McWilliam focused on the DOL-VETS three-sided approach to helping veterans. 1. Workforce Investment System; Career One-Stop, Veterans Workforce Investment Program, Homeless Veterans' Reintegration Program, HireVetsFirst Campaign. 2. Employment Rights; USERRA, Veterans' Preference, Disabled Veterans Hiring Initiative. 3. Transition Services; Transition Assistance Employment Workshops, REALifelines, Operation Warfighter. The other speakers, in consecutive order, were:
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 135 Hakeem Basheerud-Deen, Senior Human Resources Specialist, Office of Personnel Management, Paul Plasencia, Veterans Outreach Program Manager, Department of Homeland Security, Edner Escarne, Acting Deputy Accountability Program Officer, Department of Commerce, and Dennis May, Director, Veterans Employment Coordination Services, Department of Veterans Affairs, Jamie Frankel, Officer, High Volume Recruiter, Bank of America and William Philbrick, Theatre Lead, CISCO. The afternoon session continued with a series of speakers, focused on Transition and Reintegration of veterans: David Dubois, Director, Wounded Warrior Care and Transition Policy, Department of Defense, Gregory Boyle, Commander Officer, Department of Defense, Roger Neppl, Director, Military Program, Paralympics Division, Department of Defense and Stacie Hitts, Director, Operation Diploma, Military Family Research Institute, Purdue University. Terry Quattlebaum, Director, US Army Garrison, Walter Reed, and Ruth Fanning, Director, Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment Program, Department of Veterans Affairs. V. Awards Selection Subcommittee Meeting Prior to the Washington Conference, the Chairman of the National Economic Commission appointed an awards selection subcommittee to review all the nominations that had been received during 2009 in the Employer of the Year awards program, and in the Employment Service awards program. This subcommittee met on Tuesday, March 2, 2010, in Chairman Fisher's Suite, Renaissance Hotel, Washington, D.C., to select winners in the large, medium and small employer, LVER and DVOP categories, as well as Employment Service Local Office of the Year, and Employer of Disabled and Older Workers categories. During 2009, Departments submitted 99 nominations for employers and employment services. 10 were for small companies (1-50 employees), 14 were for medium size companies (51-200 employees), and 13 were for large companies (201+employees). 10 were for Employer of Older Workers, 5 were for Employer of the Disabled. Departments also submitted 17 nominations for Local Veterans Employment Representatives (LVERs), 17 for Disabled Veterans Outreach Program (DVOP) Specialists and 13 for local Employment Service (ES) Local Offices. Those appointed to the subcommittee were Al Robotti (NJ), Chairman; William E. Christoffersen (UT); James Fratolillo (MA), Alfred Canale (MA), Dennis Tipsword (IL) and Peggy Dettori (AK). Kenneth Connors (NJ) was a consultant. The winners and runners-up in the Employer of the Year categories will be reviewed by the Department of Labor for pending safety and health or fair labor practices violations before announcement is made.
Small Employer Millennium Security Services, LLC Roswell, Georgia Medium Size Employer Regent Security Services, Inc. Columbus, Georgia Large Employer BNSF Railway Company Fort Worth, Texas Employer Of The Disabled Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development Madison, Wisconsin Employer Of Older Workers Allen Corporation of America, Inc. Fairfax, Virginia LVER Of The Year Kathy Y. Ford Denver, Colorado DVOP Of The Year Kenneth E. Kempf Raleigh, North Carolina ES Local Office Of The Year Cumberland County Job Link Center Fayetteville, North Carolina
136 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011
VI. Small Business Task Force's Veterans Small Business Development Workshop The National Economic Commission Small Business Task Force sponsored their Annual Mid-Winter Conference Small Business Development Workshop and Seminar Series on Tuesday, March 2, 2010, in Congressional Ballroom B, Ballroom Level of the Renaissance Hotel, Washington, D.C. Approximately 120 veteran and service-disabled business owners participated in this event. Veterans traveled from as far away as Texas, Hawaii, North Carolina, Tennessee, Pennsylvania as well as Maryland and Virginia. Top experts from the private and Federal sectors provided veterans with information on how to start and maintain successful businesses. Also, veterans heard pertinent information that gave them the necessary insight to effectively penetrate the Federal marketplace. The free one-day workshop included representatives from Department of the Treasury, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Department of Defense (DOD), the Small Business Administration (SBA) , the General Services Administration (GSA), PNC Bank, and the Northeast Veterans Business Resource Center. VII. Meeting of The National Economic Commission The National Economic Commission met at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, March 3, 2010, in Meeting Room 5, Meeting Room Level, Renaissance Hotel, Washington, D.C. Commission Chairman Randall Fisher (KY) presided. William Elmore, Associate Administrator for Veterans Business Development, U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) presented that the Office of Veterans' Business Development received $2 million to operate SBA's outreach centers. However, Mr. Elmore stated he needs more staff (service-disabled veterans) in his office, and for the outreach centers to have more program activities to adequately serve the veteran business community. Also, Mr. Elmore mentioned that SBA recently received $10 million in discretionary funding; consequently, he hopes a significant portion of these funds will be used to further the business development office outreach goals and develop a nationwide community-based service delivery system, specifically for veterans and members of the Reserve Components. Finally, the awards selection subcommittee's report was considered. The meeting adjourned at 11:00 a.m.
Report: Economic Commission May 4-5, 2011 Harold D. Barnett, Georgia, Chairman
The National Economic Commission met on May 2-3, 2011, at Headquarters Room 311 in Indianapolis, Indiana for the purpose of considering those matters that had previously been referred for study and to discuss a range of other current matters.
Presiding: Harold Barnett (GA), Chairman Present at the meeting were:
Albert M. Robotti (NJ) Harold Pawson, III (AK) William G. Bickford (ME) Charles W. Goodin (MO) William Christoffersen (UT) Wendall J. Sandell (PA)
Also in attendance were: The staff members present were Joseph C. Sharpe, Jr. (DC), Director for Economic, and Mark Walker (DC), Deputy Director for Economic
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 137 Matters received, considered and acted upon by the commission: Resolutions Your Subcommittee considered three (3) resolutions. Two (2) originated in the Economic Commission. Two are forwarded to the National Executive Committee for adoption and one (1) was referred from the 2009 National Convention which is being held for further study.
(Origin: Economic Commission) Support License and Certification Standards for Veterans Health Administration
(Origin: Economic Commission) Support a National Employment Website for Veterans
The Commission then discussed the following issues: State of the Economy The Department of Labor (DOL) reports that the national unemployment rate is 8.8 percent; however, the unemployment rate for Iraq and Afghanistan veterans is 10.9 percent in April. The total number of unemployed veterans is approximately 1,000,000. Unfortunately, many of the thousands of service members who are currently leaving the service are from the combat arms and non-skilled professions that are not readily transferable to the civilian labor market. The American Legion understands that there is an immense need to ensure that veterans are getting trained and are afforded ample opportunities to succeed in this unstable job market. The American Legion will continue to assist veterans and their families in their transition to employment through our Career Fairs that we sponsor across the country with Military.com and RecruitMilitary along with the Small Business Development Workshops that we hold during our annual Washington Conference and National Convention. So far in 2011, The American Legion has already sponsored 33 Career Fairs across the country for veterans and their families seeking employment. Also, the Economic Division is revamping its section on the Legion website to provide assistance to job seekers through our network of partnerships. Employment and Career Fairs During the year, staff members from the Economic Division continue to prepare and deliver testimony for Congressional committees on subjects of vital interest to the Commission, including contracting/procurement for veteran-owned and service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses; transition from Department of Defense (DOD) to Department of Labor, Veterans Employment and Training Services (DOL-VETS), the VETS budget, and VA services for vocational rehabilitation, education and home loans; and veterans preference in Federal hiring. The American Legion has formal memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with RecruitMilitary, Avue Technologies, and Military.com, allowing The American Legion to have a presence at veterans' Career Fairs around the country. The purpose is to educate veterans regarding their benefits, provide them outlets for employment and promote The American Legion. This is an extremely important opportunity with an incredibly positive impact for veterans and our organization. The American Legion will participate in more than 100 Career Fairs in 2011 conducted through our national partnerships. Additionally, each department Employment chairperson organizes participation in numerous local Job Fairs (other than our two national partners). Job duties, expectation instructions and flyers accompany approximately 100 educational brochures from The American Legion for each Career Fair. Educational material is sent automatically to departments associated with Military.com and RecruitMilitary and per individual request. The staff of the National Headquarters Economic Division is also involved in advisory committees. Director Joseph Sharpe is a member of the Department of Veterans
138 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 Affairs Education Advisory Committee and Deputy Director Mark Walker is a contributor to the Department of Veterans Affairs Homeless Advisory Committee. National Employer Awards During the Washington Conference, the Commission's Awards Subcommittee met to select winners in the Employer of Veterans and Employment Service awards categories. Winners include:
Small Employer: Georgia Vietnam Veterans Alliance Doraville, Georgia
Medium Size Employer: Millennium Security Services, LLC Alpharetta, Georgia
Large Employer: Eagle Systems and Services, Inc. Fort Benning, Georgia
Employer of the Disabled: Veterans Employment Development Center, The American Legion Post 155 Crystal River, Florida
Employer of Older Workers: Point Security Company, Inc. Youngwood, Pennsylvania
LVER of the Year: Robert Shoeman Post Falls, Idaho
DVOP of the Year: Johnny Moreno Twin Falls, Idaho
ES Local Office of the Year: Gwinnett Career Center, Georgia Department of Labor Norcross, Georgia
Homeless Outreach The Department of Idaho Boise, Idaho
Education The National Economic Commission hosted a one-day Seminar titled: "Veterans On Campus" on Sunday, March 20, 2011 in the Grand Ballroom South, Lower Level at the Renaissance Hotel, Washington, D.C. "Veterans On Campus" was designed to reach out to Academia, Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs) and student-veterans on how academia and VSOs can assist this younger generation in transitioning from military to college life. This event attracted over 100 guests who listened to a variety of issues. The welcome and introduction was done by Derek Blumke, Co-Founder, Student Veterans of America (SVA). The Seminar was opened with discussion from keynote speaker: Past National Commander and Past National Adjutant Robert Spanogle. Another conference speaker was Randall Lazaro, Management & Program Analyst, VA. The Seminar hosted 4 panels that discussed transitioning challenges for veterans returning to school. The panels were: 1) Student-Veteran Panel (moderated by Erik Brine, SVA, Georgetown University), which included Peter Nesbitt, Margo Ellis, Sarah Solli and Matt Webb from Georgetown University, Ian Golden, Catholic University, and Dario
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 139 DiBattista, John Hopkins University; 2) Congressional Panel (moderated by Jeff Steele, Assistant Director, Legislative Division), which included staff members from both sides of the House Veterans Affairs Committee and the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee; 3) Women Veteran Panel (moderated by Karen Courington, Georgetown Alumni, U.S. Air Force Reserves), which included Danielle Corazza, Director, Veterans' Outreach, Business and Professional Women's Foundation, Andrea Werner, Secretary, SVA, and Elizabeth O'Herrin, John Hopkins University; 4) VSO & College/University Representatives Panel (moderated by Brian Hawthorne, Board of Directors, SVA), which included individuals from VFW, IAVA and SVA, George Washington University, American Council on Education, and National Association of Veteran Program Administrators. After each panel, the audience was invited to ask questions in order to better understand the problem student veterans are facing and how to address those problems and needs of . The Economic Division has discussed and recommended to the VA to be more proactive in their outreach efforts with the veteran community and colleges/universities as they continue to process Post 9/11 GI Bill claims. Our division will continue working with Keith Wilson, Director of Education Service, to ensure that VA is sending out payments (i.e., tuition, housing and book stipends) to colleges and student veterans in an effective and timely manner. The American Legion will also continue working with VA's outreach management team and other stakeholders to coordinate outreach efforts so service members and veterans have the necessary information concerning their new education benefit. Veterans EntrepreneurshipError! Bookmark not defined. The National Economic Commission Small Business Task Force sponsored 2 Small Business Development Workshops that were held in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, during the National Convention and most recently at the Washington Conference. Over 200 participants have attended these workshops. The National Economic Division is looking to expand these events in the coming months. On Tuesday, March 22, 2011, in Congressional Ballroom B, Ballroom Level of the Renaissance Hotel, Washington, D.C. Approximately 50 veteran and service-disabled business owners participated in this event. Veterans traveled from as far away as South Carolina, Tennessee, Pennsylvania, New Jersey as well as Maryland and Virginia. Top experts from the private and Federal sectors provided veterans with information on how to start and maintain successful businesses. Also, veterans heard pertinent information that gave them the necessary insight into effectively penetrating the Federal marketplace. The free one-day workshop included representatives from the Treasury Department, the Small Business Administration (SBA), the General Services Administration (GSA), Department of Defense (DOD), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), PNC Bank, and the Northeast Veterans Business Resource Center. Keynote speaker Margot Dorfman, Founder/CEO of the Women's Chamber of Commerce, talked about the challenges of small business ownership – especially for women – and the potential for success. Ms. Dorfman also discusses two programs created to help women entrepreneurs; the Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Federal contract program, and the Economically Disadvantaged, Women-Owned Small Business (EDWOSB) program. Attendees also heard about four veteran-employment programs developed by Dr. Michael Haynie, Assistant Professor of Entrepreneurship at Syracuse University. Dr. Haynie's first program, Entrepreneurship Boot Camp for Veterans (EBV) with Disabilities, began in 2007 and was joined three years later by EBV families, a training program for family members who have become caregivers for wounded veterans. Two more programs were developed in partnership with SBA: Endure and Grow, a small business management program for National Guard members and Reservists; and VWISE – Veteran Women Igniting the Spirit of Entrepreneurship. VWISE is a national training
140 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 program for women veterans, featuring conferences for up to 200 women in several cities across the U.S. This program, like the other three, is free of charge, but also covers food and lodging for eligible participants. Heroes to Hometowns (H2H) H2H's mission is to facilitate the coming home of a wounded service member and his or her family by calling on resources available in their community. Whether it will include finding jobs for the soldier and his or her spouse, helping find a home, fixing a leaky faucet to more serious needs including money to pay the rent, getting an automobile running again or watching the kids while mom takes another child to the doctor, The American Legion will be there for them. In the past, H2H Program Coordinators have built a strong network of contacts; however, the current infrastructure does not permit the maximum ability/potential to assist wounded warriors once they transition back to their communities. We found a breakdown in service once the information was passed from the national office to the department level. Approximately 70 percent of wounded warriors who were referred to H2H in the last several months were not contacted; consequently, we are resolving this infrastructure issue with assistance from the Auxiliary and Legion Riders who volunteered to help to ensure that wounded warriors do not fall through the cracks when returning home. Homelessness The National Economic Commission of The American Legion held an extremely successful homeless veterans roundtable on Friday, March 18, 2011, in Meeting Room 8, Meeting Room Level, Renaissance Hotel, Washington, D.C. The one-day roundtable had experts from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the Department of Labor (DOL), the Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD), National Coalition for Homeless Veterans (NCHV), the Business and Professional Women's Foundation (BPWF) and the National Alliance to End Homelessness (NAEH); specifically, Mary Rooney, Program Specialist, VA, Gordon Burke, Director of Operations, Grants, and Transition Programs, DOL, Cynthia High, Special Needs Assistance Program Specialist, HUD, John Driscoll, President/CEO, NCHV, Michael Ferrell, Executive Director, Coalition for the Homeless, Mary Moorhouse, Director, Special Projects, BPWF and Steve Berg, Vice President, NAEH. During the roundtable it was noted that VA and HUD estimates over 136,000 homeless veterans on any given night (2009 Annual Homeless Assessment Report to Congress). VA is taking decisive action toward its goal of ending homelessness among our Nation's veterans. To achieve this goal, VA has developed a Five-Year Plan to assist every homeless veteran willing to accept services retain or acquire: safe housing; needed treatment services; opportunities to retain or return to employment; and benefits assistance. VA will continue to partner with the community, national and local service providers, and other state and Federal agencies to provide comprehensive care to homeless veterans and veterans at-risk for homelessness. Also mentioned was the successful Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program (HVRP) within the Department of Labor's Veterans Employment and Training Services (DOL-VETS) . HVRP is the only nationwide program focused on assisting homeless veterans to reintegrate into the workforce. This program is a highly successful grant program that needs to be fully funded at $50 million. Currently, HVRP is funded at $41 million. Among other matters, classes were taught on how to successfully engage the homeless veteran issue in the local community and how to successfully execute a Stand Down. Finally, it was noted that The American Legion has taken a leadership role within local communities by volunteering, fundraising and advocating for programs and funding for homeless veterans. In addition, The American Legion has provided housing for homeless veterans and their families as well (i.e., Department of Pennsylvania). One of the goals of The American Legion is to help bring Federal agencies, non-profit
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 141 organizations, faith-based communities and other stakeholders to the table to discuss best practices, along with funding opportunities, so homeless veterans and their families can obtain the necessary care and help in order for them to properly transition from the streets/shelters into gainful employment and/or independent living. Conclusion The National Economic Commission is fully aware that it would be impossible to carry out its mandates without the active involvement of Posts, Districts, Counties, Departments and individual Legionnaires. We deeply appreciate their continued support and involvement. Chairman Fisher also thanks the National Commander, the National Adjutant, the National Executive Committee, and the staff of both the Washington and Indianapolis offices for the outstanding support and cooperation they have provided during the past year.
Addendum A: Resolutions Not Approved
Held for Further Study Resolution No. 74 (MA) (2009 Natl. Conv.): Support Establishment of the Veterans' Business Development and Outreach Program
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: Mr. Commander, I make a motion to receive and file the report of the Economic Commission, with the exception of three resolutions and one addendum. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Motion on the floor to receive and file the report of the Economic Commission. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed. Carried.
Joseph Sharpe, Mark Walker, please stand up so you can be recognized. They're from our Washington Office. They do a good job. (Applause)
Resolution No. 28: Support Licensure and Certification Standards for Veterans Health Administration Origin: Economic Commission Submitted by: Economic Commission WHEREAS, The Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration (VHA) has certain licensures and credentials they require for certain positions; and WHEREAS, the Department of Defense provides comprehensive and specific training during military service; and WHEREAS, The Department of Veterans Affairs, VHA is looking for highly qualified individuals to fill their job descriptions; and WHEREAS, Military experience that is gained while serving in the Armed Forces is valuable to health care and non-health care related positions found within Veterans Health Administration; and WHEREAS, All valuable experience while gained on active service can translate into academic education for certain positions within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VHA); and WHEREAS, Service members' experience and training can help fill the vacancies for health care and non-health care related positions within Veterans Health Administration; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That The American Legion support the Department of Veterans Affairs, and specifically the Veterans Health Administration in allowing military education, training, and
142 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 experience to be considered towards a license or certification for health care and non-health care related positions that require licenses or credentials.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBER KILE: This resolution has been approved by your National Economic Commission, your Resolutions Subcommittee, and I so move. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You heard the motion and a second to approve resolution number 28. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed. Carried.
Resolution No. 29: Rescind Resolution 20, NEC, October 13-14, 2010, Support a Veteran-Centric Website for Employment Origin: Economic Commission Submitted by: Economic Commission WHEREAS, The American Legion has identified the complicated hiring process followed by the Federal government and is seeking reform of that process; and WHEREAS, The USAJobs.com website offers a confusing, multi-layered application process that involves questionnaires, essay style answers and a list of Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA's) that affect the overall rating of a veteran's application; and WHEREAS, It has been the finding of numerous surveys and studies that, for a variety of reasons, the vast majority of veterans of the armed forces are disadvantaged in pursuing civilian employment and careers; and WHEREAS, There is no single job bank system nationwide that veterans can use to transition from military service to civilian life; and WHEREAS, It is the intent and purpose of Congress that the Department of Labor (DOL), Veteran Employment and Training Service (VETS) provide the leadership, direction and oversight of all placement and employment services for veterans; and WHEREAS, The Office of the Inspector General within DOL received recent reports which recommended that VETS increase its oversight of this program, which confirms that services for veterans be provided by the direction of, and subject to oversight by, Congress to ensure that all veterans are afforded such services in a uniform manner following completion of their service and return to their state of residence; and WHEREAS, It is imperative that the new job bank system be developed to assist veterans in reaching employers and assist employers in reaching qualified veterans; consequently, it is necessary that the system be designed to only allow quality resumes and quality job openings; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That The American Legion rescind Resolution 20, dated 13-14 October 2010, Titled: Support a Veteran-Centric Website for Employment because of the potential financial risks and obligations that may at some point negatively affect The American Legion.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBER KILE: This has been approved by your National Economic Commission, your Resolutions Subcommittee, and I so move for its approval. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You heard the motion and a second to approve resolution number 29. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed. Carried.
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 143 Resolution No. 30: Support a National Employment Website for Veterans Origin: Economic Commission Submitted by: Economic Commission WHEREAS, The American Legion has identified the complicated hiring process followed by the Federal government and is seeking reform of that process; and WHEREAS, The USAJobs.com website offers a confusing, multi-layered application process that involves questionnaires, essay style answers and a list of Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA's) that affect the overall rating of a veteran's application; and WHEREAS, It has been the finding of numerous surveys and studies that, for a variety of reasons, the vast majority of veterans of the Armed Forces are disadvantaged in pursuing civilian employment and careers; and WHEREAS, There is no single job bank system nationwide that veterans can use to transition from military service to civilian life; and WHEREAS, It is the intent and purpose of Congress that the Department of Labor (DOL), Veteran Employment and Training Service (VETS) provide the leadership, direction and oversight of all placement and employment services for veterans; and WHEREAS, The Office of the Inspector General within DOL received recent reports which recommended that VETS increase its oversight of this program, which confirms that services for veterans be provided by the direction of, and subject to oversight by, Congress to ensure that all veterans are afforded such services in a uniform manner following completion of their service and return to their state of residence; and WHEREAS, It is imperative that the new job bank system be developed to assist veterans in reaching employers and assist employers in reaching qualified veterans; consequently, it is necessary that the system be designed to only allow quality resumes and quality job openings; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That The American Legion support the design and implementation of a nationwide job bank website system, for the purpose of providing transitioning military members and veterans with a one-stop website system of jobs for veterans under the jurisdiction of the Department of Labor, Veterans Employment and Training Service.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBER KILE: This resolution has been approved by your National Economic Commission, your Resolutions Subcommittee, and I move for its adoption. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You have heard the motion and a second to approve resolution number 30. Any discussion? Past National Commander Spanogle. PAST NATIONAL COMMANDER SPANOGLE: Mr. Commander, and the chairman of the Economic Commission, I can't vote for resolution number 30, but I can add my voice in support of resolution number 30. Last October at the National Executive Committee, and thanks to Ron Conley and Paul Morin, and a number of others, we received a report on the percentage of veterans employed in the Department of Veterans Affairs and their various agencies. And I am familiar with the number of veterans that work in the Department of Defense. I'm aware that they are going to hire about a 100,000 more personnel in the Department of Defense. Currently, veterans who are being discharged from the service, including veterans here in this room and veterans throughout this country, can only apply for these jobs through USA Jobs, Which I understand, if I'm not mistaken, Director Sharpe, has been contracted out through Monster.com. If you know of any veterans who have applied for employment with a department of the Federal government, primarily the VA or DoD, or any other agency of the Federal government, it is a cumbersome, slow, convoluted
144 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 process. And most of them, even though qualified, whether they be a physician or just a private who wants to work on a maintenance staff, have to go through this process, and it really does not respond to them one bit. For instance, before I gave it to this committee on behalf of my friend, who supplied me with the report, and the report was supplied to our Legislative Division and our National Security Division to us, just look at the Veterans Health Administration, only 28.1 percent of those working in that portion of VA are veterans. In the Veterans Court of Appeals, 26 percent. But anyway, let's just give it a round number. Only 40 percent of those that are employed by the Department of Veterans Affairs are veterans. And I think Mr. Conley asked the VA&R Commission last October, without showing them this report, asked them: What do you think the number of veterans would be percentage-wise employed by the VA? And they came back without any estimate at all. They said, well, we believe that in fairness, it ought to be 60 percent. Well, it's never going to get much better than 40 percent through USA Jobs. I support this resolution, but I also would go further. I would ask that the national commander consider; the Economic Chairman consider; the Legislative Chairman consider in their respective positions to encourage, and there's enough resolutions in this place, to encourage the Oversight Committee of Congress to hold a hearing on why veterans preference is not being exercised in at least the two agencies or three agencies that deal directly with veterans, starting at the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Department of Labor and the Department of Defense. We only have to look at the high percentage of unemployment among veterans getting out. I recall back during the Vietnam War, and that was a very long war, 17 years if I remember, we had the same challenge. The Supreme Court upheld veterans' preference and we had to go to Congress. And we had to write in by legal statute that these agencies would exercise veterans' preference in hiring, and even the subcontractors I think they have done now, have to have a certain percentage of veterans. It's interesting to me that the only part of the VA that has a high number of veterans working for them, over 70 percent, is the cemetery system. I just want to tell you, I go way back. I was at a meeting of the VA when a good friend Don Johnson, past national commander, was an administrator, and I went to a meeting where one of the people in the White House said, "Well, you know, you Vietnam veterans, you know how to handle an M-16, an M-14 and an M-1. You've had some training. I think you ought to go out and, you know, get into security. How's that sound to you?" What they were recommending to us was that we should all be mall cops. That was the attitude. We made a pact in this organization and we're not going to allow that to happen with this generation who are composed of high school graduates that need a break. I don't kid myself that those people over in Congress are any smarter than we were. They're not the fountain of all knowledge. So, I would encourage you, Mr. Commander, our commission chairs and our staff, to go over there and train their staff and bring them up-to-date on what is actually taking place from their own statistics of the departments that they oversee, have oversight. You know, the president and these agencies don't run the government. We the people do, and Congress has got the oversight. And I'm thinking quite frankly, and I'm all for this resolution, but the Department of Labor is labor us. By the time they get site up there, the world will be over and I'll be in my grave, okay? So, let's get Congress kicked in the butt. Thank you, Mr. Commander, we're still on time. (Laughter and applause) NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: The Chair recognizes Past National Commander Ron Conley from Pennsylvania. PAST NATIONAL COMMANDER CONLEY: I want to add my voice to what Mr. Spanogle had to say. But the System Worth Saving Task Force has found out that the Congress has demanded that the VA deal with women's issues; that the VA deals with
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 145 OIF/OEF, and Operation New Dawn. As we go around with the System Worth Saving Task Force and we talk to the directors and the staff within the hospitals dealing with those particular groups of people, we find that those people in charge are not OIF/OEF veterans, or the women in charge being in the military. Now, who knows better of the issues concerning veterans than those that have already served? But the VA has people in charge of these issues that have no idea of what is going on within the OIF/OEF veterans and with women's issues. And this is one place that it needs to start. The VA has to start putting people who will have some type of idea of the issues of those veterans that served during this time period. And we can give those statistics. Mr. Spanogle is right as far as the overall layout and the percentages. But just in those two areas alone, the VA lacks pulling veterans in to handle veterans' issues that are mandated by the Congress of the United States. So, I totally add my support to this resolution. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Thank you, Commander Conley. Any other discussion? The motion on the floor and seconded is to approve resolution number 30. All in favor. Opposed. Carried. Thank you. RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBER KILE: Attached to this report is Addendum A. It's been approved by the National Economic Commission, and I will move for its adoption. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Motion and second on the floor that Addendum A become the action of the NEC. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed. Carried. Thank you, Dale, for your report. PAST NATIONAL COMMANDER REHBEIN: Mr. Commander, may I have a moment of our time, please, before you go on to the next item of business? NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You may, sir. PAST NATIONAL COMMANDER REHBEIN: This is a great report, but there is a nugget of truth in here that I think we all need to take a good hard look at, and that's in the Heroes To Hometowns section where it says 70 percent of the veterans that were referred to Heroes to Hometowns never got contacted when they got home. And now we're going to solve that problem by using the Auxiliary and the Legion Riders because it sounds to me like the Legion either can't or won't respond. If we don't do anything else besides welcome our wounded home and help them settle in, we're failing. There's a big crack in one of those pillars out front. I think everybody in this room needs to ask themselves: Was one of them in my department? And if they were, why weren't they contacted? Who dropped the ball? I think every one of us when we go home need to look at that procedure back home, because they are coming home to all of our departments. And if their buddies find out that The American Legion doesn't care enough to even contact them, why should their buddies want to come and join us? That's what we were formed on. Let's make sure we're still doing it. Thank you, Mr. Commander. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Thank you, Commander Rehbein. Past National Commander Spanogle. PAST NATIONAL COMMANDER SPANOGLE: I want to fully concur with Dave Rehbein. I'll tell you, I would encourage our staff, the members of this NEC and the department commanders and adjutants, fellow commanders, all of The American Legion, all of us, to do everything they can, and Commander Rehbein is right. But you know sometimes, I was a staffer for 36 years, I would encourage you if you don't get an answer from the department officer, he may be busy doing business for The American Legion and he'll get to it. Most of them are overworked, including our service officers, we know that. But if you are don't get an answer, then go to the next officer lower, the next officer higher. In other words, let the NECman know about it; let the
146 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 department commander know about it. Establish a contact. And I would also tell you in this wonderful beautiful room called the NEC, and this beautiful, wonderful headquarters, but some of our folks go through, you know, different leadership changes. It may not be the best that they can be, that's why we have a revitalization program, and I encourage you, quite frankly, there's another post up the road that will do this job for us. And once they do it they'll be hooked. Use all the communication you can. It's not at anybody's expense; not to put anybody at fault, but these are all our sons and daughters. So I encourage the staff to spread that communication out a little bit. And I know they do, but I want to encourage them to do everything they can. If they can't do it, call somebody in that department. Get membership involved. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Thank you, Commander Spanogle. At this time the Chair recognizes Larry Besson from Illinois for the Internal Affairs Commission report.
Oral Report: Internal Affairs Commission Larry J. Besson, Illinois, Chairman
Thank you. Commander, members of the National Executive Committee, my fellow Legionnaires, ladies and gentlemen. You have a detailed report of our actions and deliberations, and I commend that to your attention. It's been a long day today and I will be brief in my remarks. I draw your attention to the great work of the Sons of The American Legion, and I thank every department for this great program. A fantastic job done. When you returned from lunch, I hope everyone got one of these challenge coins. We've got a couple that didn't get them but we'll get you one after this meeting is over. There is a challenge coin. This is the coin that will be in the coin board that you voted on this morning. And these are from Emblem Sales. And the U.S. Coin Board purchased them from Emblem Sales. And this coin is presented to you not only from U.S. Coin, but Team Johnson Racing. Our NEF is in good shape and we currently have a little over $2.9 million available in the fund to help our members and families impacted by the recent flooding and tornados. We have been in contact with each department and we are ready to process any grant applications we receive. I commend the Public Relations staff for the public service announcements that they produced and distributed to the radio stations in the impacted areas. Just another way to outreach to our members who have suffered great losses. Mr. Commander, I submit my report to you for the action of the National Executive Committee with my deepest respect and appreciation for the support and encouragement we enjoy from this body. Thank you.
Report: Internal Affairs Commission May 4-5, 2011 Larry J. Besson, Illinois, Chairman
Chairman Larry J. Besson (IL), called an assembly of the Internal Affairs Commission to order at 9:00 a.m., May 2, 2011, and at 8:30 a.m., May 3, 2011, in the Herman G. Harrington Conference Room, National Headquarters, Indianapolis, Indiana. The National Emergency Fund has $2.9M available in the fund. We are ready to support any natural disaster that our Legionnaires experience. Terry Woodburn (IL) and Tom Haynes (TX) updated the commission on The American Legion Riders Ad-Hoc Advisory Committee meetings in December 2010 and
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 147 March 2011. Their focus was on future American Legion Legacy runs with emphasis on the run to Indianapolis in 2012. In addition, they presented a proposed amendment to Resolution 35 (NEC: Oct 2007). The commission approved the proposed amendment. My report consists of the following sections: Standing Committee Reports; Program and Internal Action Reports; and Actions on Assigned Resolutions.
Standing Committee Reports Membership and Post Activities Committee Denise Rohan (WI), Chairman of the Membership and Post Activities Committee reported on status of membership programs and results of their annual planning session held in January 2011. Chairman Rohan presented the written recommendations originating from the January Annual Membership Planning Session to the Commission for acceptance, which are attached. The report was accepted by the Commission for implementation in 2012.
Trophies, Awards & Ceremonials Committee Randall W. Busch (NE), Chairman, reported on business of the Trophies, Awards and Ceremonials Committee meeting conducted May 1-2, 2011. Commission approved the actions of the Committee except for resolutions, which were handled separately. Copy of report is attached.
Constitution and By-Laws Committee Vincent M. Gaughan (IL), Chairman, Constitution and By-Laws Committee reported that they had no resolutions and had no further business at this meeting.
M & PA Recommendations Resolutions The following resolutions were discussed by the committee and will be considered by the Internal Affairs Commission during the Spring meetings: Resolution #240 (MN)Study Impact on Female Membership Cause by Lack of Programs for Spouses Resolution #201 (MX) Inclusion of Foreign Departments in the National Membership Awards Program Resolution #267 (ID) Inclusion of Foreign Departments in the National Membership Awards Program
2011-2012 Target Dates and Big Twelve Competition
Early Bird/NEF Kickoff *September 14, 2011 50% Fall Meetings October 19, 2011 55% Veterans Day November 16, 2011 65% Pearl Harbor Day *December 14, 2011 75% Mid-Winter January 19, 2012 80% President's Day *February 8, 2012 85% Legion Birthday March 14, 2012 90% Children & Youth *April 11, 2012 95% Armed Forces Day May 9, 2012 100% Delegate Strength 30 Days Prior To National Convention
*This is also a renewal notice cutoff date.
148 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 2012 Renewal Schedule Cutoff Dates Renewal Dates May 2, 2011 July 1, 2011 *September 14, 2011 October 3, 2011 *December 14, 2011 January 2, 2012 *February 8, 2012 March 1, 2012 *April 14, 2012 May 1, 2012
Awards Program Big 12 Competition: • The Department of France will be admitted into the Big 12 competition starting in the 2012 membership year. Membership Workshop • Reorganize breakout sessions into four parts: o District Commander Session o Basic Membership Session o Advanced Membership Session o Department Membership Chairman Session Mentoring and Leadership Mentoring and Training: • National will research the possibility of an online training module by the 2012 membership year. • Recommend that District/County membership teams complete a certification that includes some or all of the following: The American Legion Extension Institute, National Membership Workshop, Department Legion College or an equivalent Department training session. Role of Membership & Post Activities Committee • Ensure all Departments know what the M&PA Committee's responsibilities are per the National Outline of Authorization • Design and develop a long term membership plan as a basis to move forward. Confirmation of Dates for 2013 The dates for the January Planning Session for 2013 are January 11-12 and the Membership Workshop will be held August 2-4, 2013.
Trophies, Awards & Ceremonials [TAC] Committee Report to Internal Affairs Commission The 2011 meeting of the Trophies, Awards and Ceremonials Committee was called to order by Chairman Randall W. Busch (NE), at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 1, Circle East, Sheraton Hotel, for the purpose of conducting its annual meeting. Guests present were: Larry Besson (IL), Chairman, Internal Affairs Commission; Jack Querfeld (IL), Director, Internal Affairs; Ralph P. Bozella (CO), NEC; Neal L. Thomas, Jr. (CO), Alt NEC The matters covered included:
Official and Unofficial Awards It is routine to make the awards given out since the last meeting of the Trophies, Awards and Ceremonials Committee a part of the annual report that goes to the National Executive Committee to become a part of the permanent record of that body. Information on these awards is attached to our report as Attachment One and Attachment Two. Carl Reese (OH) made the motion and Anthony Guerrero (CA) seconded the motion to accept the 2010 Official Awards. Motion carried. Anthony Guerrero (CA) made the motion and
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 149 Charles Erwin (OK) seconded the motion to accept the 2010 – 2011 Unofficial Awards. Motion carried.
Canadian Friendship Award Three nominations were received for this award. After review and discussion the following recommendation is submitted for approval: Pat Varga; submitted by Post 21, Montana. Carl Reese (OH) made the motion to accept and Anthony Guerrero (CA) seconded the motion. Motion carried. Dick Stasuik, submitted by Post 68, Washington. James Bojanowski (NY) made the motion to accept and Anthony Guerrero (CA) seconded the motion. Motion carried. Lucien Morneault, submitted by Post 147, Maine. After careful study, Carl Reese (OH) made the motion to reject on the grounds of not enough information and no information on when Mr. Morneault served in the Armed Forces of Canada. Duane Chinander (WI) seconded the motion to reject. Motion carried.
Four Resolutions for Consideration: Rescind Resolution 14, NEC, May 5-6, 2010, 100th Anniversary Commemorative American Legion Coin Ralph P. Bozella (CO), NEC, original author of Resolution 14, agreed with this resolution with one update, add the phrase, "…to include a commemorative coin" at the end of the resolved clause. After further discussion, it was recommended to accept this resolution as written, rescinding Resolution 14 and include the above mentioned phrase. Kent McDougall (ND) made the motion to accept this resolution as so changed and Duane C. Chinander (WI) seconded the motion. After further discussion, it was recommended that this resolution be accepted. Motion carried.
Definition of Gold Star Mother and Gold Star Member After a number of individuals spoke and past research presented, a consensus was arrive at and the motion was made to table this resolution pending further research by Internal Affairs. Anthony Guerrero (CA) made the motion to table and Kent McDougall (ND) seconded the motion. Motion carried.
Armed Services Academy Awards Update An update of earlier Academy Awards resolutions, in order to anticipate inflation and further requests from Academies to increase monetary support. Motion was made by Charles Erwin (OK) to accept the resolution and Anthony Guerrero (CA) seconded the motion. Motion carried.
Retirement of POW/MIA in closing ceremony in Officer's Guide Motion was made by Carl Reese (OH) to accept resolution as written. Motion was seconded by Anthony Guerrero (CA). Motion carried.
National Commander's Presentation National Commander Jimmie L. Foster (AK) addressed the committee for the purpose of presenting one nomination for the 2011 American Legion Distinguished Service Medal Award. National Commander Foster presented his recommendation for this award to the TAC Committee, whose public service to our country reflects the principles upon which this award is based. Carl Reese (OH) made the motion to accept and Anthony Guerrero (CA) seconded the motion and the Trophies, Awards and Ceremonials Committee unanimously supported the nominee. Motion carried.
150 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 The Trophies, Awards and Ceremonials Committee presents this nomination for The American Legion's most prestigious award to the Internal Affairs Commission with the recommendation that the Commission and the National Executive Committee add this outstanding name to the list of recipients who have already received the Distinguished Service Medal Award.
Additional Business
• Update to presentation of Distinguished Service Medal Award was presented to committee and change was added to Trophies, Awards and Ceremonial Manual. Medal will be engraved on back side and placed inside a shadow box with appropriate name plate on outside. • Update of engraving on Slingerland Memorial Trophy (Golden Drum IV) currently on display in National library. The 1968 winner of the Slingerland Trophy wanted to pay to update said trophy. Letter was presented from Howard Trace, Director, National Library and Museum listing reasons to not have the trophy engraved. After discussion it was recommended that the trophy not be engraved because the award winner had been properly documented elsewhere, the particular engraving required is a lost art and the current shape of the trophy is not good and it may suffer damage if transported for engraving. A call for a motion was made to send letter under the signature of Chairman, Trophies, Awards and Ceremonial Committee, spelling out the reasons for rejecting offer and include Director Trace's letter. Anthony Guerrero (CA) made the motion and James Bojanowski (NY) seconded the motion. Motion carried. • National Emergency Fund Post Excellence Award was presented for inclusion in the Trophies, Awards and Ceremonies Manual. Award is only two years old and past experience was given in regards to what was done. In light of the fact that an American Legion post in a number of communities is looked upon as a leader and seeing how some American Legion posts in the past, after a natural disaster has happened, have gone above and beyond, it is only fitting and right to recognize such posts for this community building effort. The motion was made by Kent McDougall (ND) for the award to be further developed by Internal Affairs and the appropriate award and recognition be developed that will enhance not only the prestige of the award but help increase donations, and, most of all, provide the proper recognition to those American Legion posts that have gone above and beyond in their communities. The motion was seconded by Carl Reese (OH). The motion carried. The meeting was recessed and to reconvene at 7:30 a.m. the next morning, for the purpose of acting on any unfinished business, and to approve the prepared report to be presented to the Internal Affairs Commission. The Trophies, Awards and Ceremonials Committee reconvened at 7:30 a.m. on May 2, 2011, at the Sheraton Hotel. The final order of business was to review and discuss the written report of this committee's actions of yesterday. This being done, a motion was made by James May (IN) and seconded by Charles Erwin (OK) to adopt the actions of the Trophies, Awards and Ceremonials Committee, by approving the 2011 written report as prepared for presentation to the Internal Affairs Commission. Motion carried. There being no further business to conduct, the 2011 meeting of the Trophies, Awards and Ceremonials Committee adjourned at 7:40 a.m.
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 151 2010 Official Awards Announcement of Annual Recipient(s)
National American Legion Distinguished Service Medal Award: Awarded annually for outstanding service to the nation and to the programs of The American Legion. RECIPIENT: The Boys Scouts of America
American Legion Baseball Graduate of The Year Award: Presented to the major league baseball player who played American Legion Baseball as a teenager and best exemplifies the principles and purposes of the program in sportsmanship, citizenship, general good conduct, integrity, and playing ability. RECIPIENT: Brandon Inge – Detroit Tigers
Bob Feller Award: Awarded annually to that American Legion Baseball player recording the greatest number of strikeouts during the regional tournaments and World Series of American Legion Baseball. RECIPIENT: Kevin Hill – Midwest City, OK
Commissioner of Baseball Trophy: Awarded annually at the Major League World Series to that baseball team which becomes the National Champion as a result of playing in The American Legion World Series. RECIPIENT: American Legion Post 170 – Midwest City, OK
Dr. Irvin L. "Click" Cowger Memorial R.B.I. Award: Awarded annually to The American Legion Baseball player who is credited with the most runs batted in by the official score keepers of the respective regional tournaments and World Series of American Legion Baseball. RECIPIENT: Vince Ampi – Roseburg, OR
Ford C. Frick Trophy: Awarded annually to that Department having within its jurisdiction the runner-up team in the National Finals of The American Legion Baseball program. RECIPIENT: Department of Minnesota (Outside Sponsor – Eden Prairie, MN)
The Frank N. Belgrano, Jr. Trophy: Awarded annually to that Department which has rendered the most outstanding service during the year to the program of the Boy Scouts of America. RECIPIENT: Department of Iowa
George W. Rulon Baseball Player of the Year: A Plaque is presented to recipient by appropriate official upon conclusion of The American Legion Baseball World Series. Citation is presented to recipient at a special Hall of Fame ceremony at Cooperstown, NY, the following summer. RECIPIENT: Brandon Drozd – Geona, NE
The Howard P. Savage Trophy: Awarded annually to that Department having the baseball team which becomes the Champion as a result of playing in The American Legion World Series. RECIPIENT: Department of Oklahoma (Post 170 – Midwest City, OK)
152 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 Jack Williams Memorial Leadership Award: Awarded annually to the manager and coach of the national championship team, as representative of the adult leadership Jack Williams stressed during his lifetime. RECIPIENT(s): Manager: Doug Weese, Coaches: Shane Hawk, Jerry Long and Derek Snell
James F. Daniel, Jr. Memorial Sportsmanship Award: Awarded to The American Legion Baseball player participating in the World Series that represents the principle of good sportsmanship emphasized by the program. RECIPIENT: Blake Schmit – Eden Prairie, MN
Junior Shooting Sports Trophy: Awarded annually in four categories to the top performing Individual and Team in the Sporter and Precision categories competing in the annual USA Shooting National Junior Olympic Air Rifle Championship who are members of clubs and teams affiliated with The American Legion Junior Shooting Sports Program. RECIPIENT(s): Precision Team: Arlington Optimist Acorns (VA) AL Post 177 Ryan Anderson, Evelyn Holman, Camille Lathbury, Morgan Lluy. Precision Matthew Martin, Borealis Bullseyes (AK) AL Post 28 Individual:
Sporter Team: Lafayette Gun Club of Virginia "White" (VA) AL Post 273 Hannah Black, Joshua Black, Matthew Brewer, Thomas Wheeless. Sporter Hannah Weatherford, North Little Rock H.S. JROTC (AR) Individual: AL Post 40
Louisville Slugger Trophy: Plaque is presented to recipient, or designated representative, by appropriate official upon the conclusion of The American Legion Baseball World Series. RECIPIENT: Jake Hager – Las Vegas, NV
The Ralph T. O'Neil Education Trophy: Awarded annually to that Department within the continental limits in the United States showing the greatest Americanism activity in use of The American Legion School Medal Awards. RECIPIENT: Department of Alaska
Rawlings "Big Stick" Award: Awarded annually to that American Legion Baseball player having the highest total number of bases as determined by the official score keepers of the respective regional tournaments and World Series of American Legion Baseball. RECIPIENT: Matt Halloran – Eden Prairie, MN
Spafford National Trophy: Awarded annually to that Department of The American Legion having within its jurisdiction the winner of the National High School Oratorical Contest. RECIPIENT: Department of South Carolina (Victoria "Tori" Black – National Oratorical Winner)
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 153 Francis M. Redington Sportsmanship Award: Awarded annually to the athlete competing in The American Legion Junior Air Rifle National Championship who best exemplifies good sportsmanship and fair play. RECIPIENT: Shane Russell (AL Post 170) Three Rivers, MI. Member of the St. Joseph County 4-H Straight Shooters.
William Randolph Hearst Trophy: Awarded annually to that Department attaining the greatest number of percentage points compiled from information contained in the Consolidated Post Reports, and supporting Department narrative. RECIPIENT: Department of Wisconsin
American Legion & Scouting Square Knot Award: This award is designed to recognize American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary or Sons of The American Legion members who are actively involved in the Scouting program. This award is not meant to be a selective or limited award, but one that is available to any American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary or Sons of The American Legion member who completes the requirements for the award. The Award is meant to recognize dedication and work required by an American Legion, American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary or Sons of The American Legion member to assist in furthering the Scouting program in The American Legion.
RECIPIENT(s): 2009 – Daniel Napoliello, Gerald Newland, Sr.; 2010 - Benjamin Elkins, Clayton Niles, Charles Lewis, Jr., Dennis Smith, Richard Uhrich, Joseph Isacks, Donald Brown, George Hall, Frank Hanchak, James Sundergrill, William Servizi, Oren Peters, Harold Yocum, Quimby Enterline, Bentley Mabee, David Whitney, Alex Wiatt, Tracy Wilson, Richard Cummings, Danny Wilcoxen, Gary Petersen, Michael Staton, Jim Clements, John Beebe, Sr., Dale Emmerton, William Pollack, David Loughlin, Michael Lhotka, Carl Pabst, Royce Niles, Charles J. Kopcho, John Susek, George Alexander, Donald Wiater, William Smith, Michael Billig, Vaughn Keaton, Roger Borden, Gail Butler, Christie Butler, Robert J. Owens, Dwight Jekel.
Canadian Friendship Award: Awarded by the National Commander with the advice and consent of the National Executive Committee at such times and places as may be consistent and appropriate. It shall be awarded to specific individuals who shall be war veterans within the accepted meaning of the term and members of authentic veterans' organization in Canada. It shall be awarded to such individuals in recognition of outstanding service in the field of veterans' affairs and in the development and perpetuation of the spirit of international good will and comradeship between the United States and Canada and between their veterans' organization and The American Legion. RECIPIENT(s): ANAVICUS – George Izzard, Peter Young, Ron Newberry, Gilles Martin, Charlie Smith, Howard Copeman, Dave Low, Michael Donovan, Rick Quigley, Elsie Fraser, Bob Matheson, Gerry Bennett, Dwayne Smith, James Gauvreau, John Yates, Bruce Wight, Alex Zubko, George Ing, Don Bell, Andrew Letemplier, Real Hamelin, Gerald S. Wharton.
154 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 Department Award for 100% Post Children & Youth Reporting: Awarded annually to those Departments which achieve 100% of Posts indicating Children & Youth activity on Consolidated Post reports. RECIPIENT: Departments of Idaho, Montana, and Vermont
Employer of the Year Award for Hiring Veterans: Awarded to an employer in recognition of outstanding achievement in the employment and retraining of veterans. RECIPIENT(s): 2009 Winners Category I BNSF Railway Company Category II Regent Security Services, Inc. Category III Millennium Security Services, LLC
Note: The 2010 Employer of the Year Awards will not be determined until the 2011 National Convention.
Employment Service Awards: Awarded in three categories: Local Veterans Employment Representative (LVER) of the Year; Disabled Veterans Outreach Program Specialist (DVOP) of the Year; Employment Service (ES) Office of the Year. RECIPIENT(s): 2009 Winners LVER of the Year: Kathy Y. Ford DVOP of the Year: Kenneth E. Kempf ES Office of the Year: Cumberland County Job Link
Note: The 2010 Employment Service Awards will not be determined until the 2011 National Convention.
Awards to Enhance the Lives of Disabled Persons: The program is a joint project between the National Organization & the AETNA Company, to award those Posts that enhance the lives of disable persons by providing opportunities for their participation in community activities. RECIPIENT(s): Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development 2009 Winner
Note: The 2010 Awards to Enhance the Lives of Disabled Persons will not be determined until the 2011 National Convention.
National Department History Contest Awards: Awarded annually at the Fall Meeting of the National Executive Committee to those contestants entered in the National Department History Contest having submitted the One-Year History Narrative or Yearbook of the Department which best meets the standards established for that particular competition. RECIPIENT(s): Department of North Carolina (One-Year Narrative History) Department of Ohio (One-Year Yearbook History)
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 155 National POST History Contest Awards: Awarded annually to those contestants entered in the National Post History Contest deemed by a duly authorized panel of judges to have submitted the One-Year History of the Post which best meets the standards established for the competitions. RECIPIENT(s): Frank B. Bartlett Post 7, Buckhannon, WV (One-Year Narrative History) Matthews-Crawford Post 131, Warrensburg, (One-Year Yearbook History) MO
International Amity Award: Awarded by the National Commander with the advice and consent of the National Executive Committee at such times and places as may be consistent and appropriate. It shall be awarded to specific individuals who shall be war veterans within the accepted meaning of the term and members of an authentic veteran organization established in the territory of any of the nations associated as war-time allies of the United States of America. It shall be awarded to such individuals in recognition of outstanding service in the field of veterans affairs and for service and contributions made in the development of international good will and comradeship between their organization and The American Legion. RECIPIENT(s): None awarded for 2010
The Distinguished Public Service Award: Awarded annually by the National Commander with the advice and consent of the Commander's Advisory Committee at the time of the annual Washington Conference. It may be awarded to one or more person(s) of the United States Congress. RECIPIENT(s): Representative C.W. "Bill" Young (FL)
The Arthur D. Houghton Sons of The American Legion Trophy: Awarded annually to that Detachment of Sons of The American Legion in each of five membership categories (I – 200-1,000 members; II - 1,001-3,000 members; III - 3,001-6000 members; IV – 6001-12,000 members; V – 12,001 or more), each of said Detachments attaining the greatest percentage of increase over previous year's membership when compared with all Detachments in its category. RECIPIENT(s): Category I Detachment of Mississippi Category II Detachment of Wyoming Category III Detachment of Missouri Category IV Detachment of California Category V Detachment of Pennsylvania
Note: The 2010 Houghton awards will not be determined until December 31, 2010.
General Henri Gouraud Trophy: Awarded annually to that Department in each of six categories established by the National Membership and Post Activities Committee, each of said Department having been the first in its respective category to attain or exceed its nationally assigned membership quota (effective 1986). RECIPIENT(s): Category I None Qualified 2010 Category II None Qualified 2010 Category III None Qualified 2010 Category IV None Qualified 2010 Category V None Qualified 2010 Category VI None Qualified 2010
156 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 General John J. Pershing Honor Award: Awarded annually to that Department having the greatest percentage of its posts receiving the Honor Ribbon for having 100 percent or more, of the post's previous year's membership enrolled for the coming year by December 31, and having reported such achievement to National Headquarters by not later than January 31. RECIPIENT: Department of North Dakota
The Henry D. Lindsley Trophy: Awarded annually to the Department attaining the highest percentage of membership over its preceding year's membership by March 31. RECIPIENT: None awarded for 2010
The North Carolina Trophy: Awarded annually to the Department, not included among the several state Departments or the Department of the District of Columbia, attaining the highest percentage of membership as of March 31, over its preceding year's membership. RECIPIENT: None awarded for 2010
The O. L. Bodenhamer Trophy: Awarded annually to that Department designated to lead the parade at the time of the ensuing National Convention. RECIPIENT: Department of Vermont
The American Legion Air Force Academy Award: Awarded annually to that cadet of the graduating class at the Air Force Academy who demonstrates the highest proficiency in all academic subjects. RECIPIENT: Cadet Austin B. McKinney
The American Legion Coast Guard Academy Award: Awarded annually to that cadet of the graduating class of the United States Coast Guard Academy who is considered to have personally excelled in athletics. RECIPIENT: Ensign Justin Phillip Brooks
The American Legion Merchant Marine Academy Award: Awarded annually to that graduating midshipman of the Merchant Marine Academy, enrolled in the Pre- Commissioning Seminar Course, and selected by the Academy Faculty, as achieving the highest grade pertaining to a 1,000-word composition dealing with the subject of National Security. RECIPIENT: Midshipman Andrea M. Morrison
The American Legion Military Academy Award: Awarded annually to cadet of the graduating class at the United States Military Academy with the highest standing in Chemistry. RECIPIENT: Cadet Alexander T. Madden
The American Legion Naval Academy Award: Awarded annually to that graduating midshipman of the United States Naval Academy who stands highest in those English, History and Government courses taken to complete a Foreign Affairs major. RECIPIENT: Ensign William Nugent Murray
National Commander's Blood Donor Awards: Presented to departments in different sized categories for participating in The American Legion's Blood Donor Program. RECIPIENT(s): Category I Departments with 100,000 or more members: Post Participation: None reported by the National Security Division 2010
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 157 Individual None reported by the National Security Division 2010 Participation:
Category II Departments with 70,000 to 99,999 members: Post Participation: None reported by the National Security Division 2010 Individual None reported by the National Security Division 2010 Participation:
Category III Departments with 40,000 to 69,999 members: Post Participation: None reported by the National Security Division 2010 Individual None reported by the National Security Division 2010 Participation:
Category IV Departments with 25,000 to 39,999 members: Post Participation: None reported by the National Security Division 2010 Individual None reported by the National Security Division 2010 Participation:
Category V Departments with 10,000 to 24,999 members: Post Participation: None reported by the National Security Division 2010 Individual None reported by the National Security Division 2010 Participation:
Category VI Departments with less than 10,000 members: Post Participation: None reported by the National Security Division 2010 Individual None reported by the National Security Division 2010 Participation:
National Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award: To recognize an outstanding law enforcement officer as selected from Department law enforcement officer winners for distinguished on-and off-duty service. The accomplishments for which the award is presented shall have been in accordance with, or in furtherance of, established American Legion policies or programs and it shall have contributed to the preservation of law and order as well as the American way of life. RECIPIENT: Captain Michael LaVine, Metro Transit Police Department – Minneapolis, MN
Paul H. Griffith ROTC Trophy: Awarded annually to that Department giving the highest degree of support to the ROTC program within its jurisdiction, based on criteria drawn up by the National Security Commission. RECIPIENT(s): None reported by the National Security Division for 2010
Fourth Estate Award: Awarded to press, radio, TV, or other communications media; to associations of same, to owners, executive heads or staff members; such award to be in recognition of outstanding service to community, state, or nation, which service shall have been in accordance with or the furtherance of established American Legion policies and programs. RECIPIENT: ABA Journal
158 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 National Commander's Public Relations Award: Awarded to an outstanding individual and/or organization for distinguished public service in the field of communications. RECIPIENT: GI Film Festival
The Arch M. Cantrall Trophy: Awarded annually to that American Legion Band winning first prize in competition with all other American Legion bands during the annual National Convention of The American Legion. RECIPIENT: The Band of the Tonawandas - Williamsville, NY
Emblem Sales Trophy: To be awarded annually to that Junior sponsored Color Guard winning first prize in competition with all other Junior sponsored Color Guards during the annual National Convention of The American Legion. RECIPIENT: Last awarded 1983
The Four Chaplains Trophy: Awarded annually to the winner of The American Legion Firing Squad competition at the National Convention. RECIPIENT: Last awarded 1984
The Glen R. Hillis Trophy: Awarded annually to that Color Guard winning first prize in competition with all other Color Guards during the annual National Convention of The American Legion. RECIPIENT: American Legion Post 472 – Houston, TX
The Lemuel Bolles Trophy: Awarded annually to that band winning first prize in competition with all other bands during the annual National Convention. RECIPIENT: None for 2010
National Adjutant's Trophy: Awarded annually to that American Legion Firing Squad winning first prize in competition with all other Firing Squads during the annual National Convention of The American Legion. RECIPIENT: Last awarded 1984
William F. Lenker National Service Trophy: Awarded annually to that State Department of The American Legion excelling in welfare work for war veterans, providing the membership of that Department shall be no less than 80% of the membership of the preceding year. RECIPIENT: Department of Wisconsin
The American Legion Patriot Award: Awarded to outstanding citizens who have demonstrated a profound and exceptional commitment to military personnel and their families. In addition to the award, the national winners will receive expense-paid round trip travel to Convention to include airfare and lodging. RECIPIENT(s): Major David Howell, Lance Orton and Duane Jackson
2011 Unofficial Awards Unofficial Membership Awards Contained within this extensive program are a wide variety of prizes ranging from simple certificates and ribbons to valuable gifts and travel. The awards are designed to reward the membership success of dedicated Legionnaires at all levels of the organization and to encourage continued growth. By getting active in membership recruiting, and by asking a veterans to join our ranks, one or more of the many prizes and awards listed
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 159 below can be earned. The Department Membership Chairman can be contacted for more information.
Early Bird/NEF Kickoff - September 9, 2010: Forty-Six Departments qualified for the 50% target date they are: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.
Fall Meetings - October 20, 2010: Fifty-Two Departments qualified for the 55% target date they are: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mexico, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Philippines, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.
Veterans Day – November 17, 2010: Fifty-Four Departments qualified for the 65% target date they are: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, France, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mexico, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Philippines, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.
Pearl Harbor Day – December 8, 2010: Forty-Four Departments qualified for the 75% target date they are: Alabama, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, France, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.
Mid Winter – January 20, 2011: Forty-Seven Departments qualified for the 80% target date they are: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mexico, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.
President's Day – February 9, 2011: Thirty-One Departments qualified for the 85% target date they are: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New York, North Carolina, North
160 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, Wyoming.
Legion Birthday – March 9, 2011: Twenty Departments qualified for the 90% target date they are: Alabama, Delaware, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Vermont, Wisconsin, Wyoming.
Note: The "Big Twelve" Competition has moved to the March Target Date. "Big Twelve" Competition Winners:
Category I Ohio Category II Minnesota, Michigan Category III Iowa, Wisconsin Category IV Kentucky Category V Delaware, South Dakota Category VI Wyoming
Children & Youth – April 13, 2011: Two Departments qualified for the 95% target date: Delaware, Kentucky.
Armed Forces Day - May 11, 2011: Department qualified for the 100% target date: By achieving 100% of the Department's 2011 membership goal, winning Department Commanders and Membership Chairmen have a choice of several gifts available, based on the number of targets/bonuses made during the year.
Delegate Strength – August 1, 2011: Delegate Strength is determined by the membership in the hands of the National Treasurer 30 days prior to the National Convention. Total number of delegates for each Department is based on five delegates at large, one delegate for each 1,000 members or major fraction thereof, and the members of the National Executive Committee.
Department Commander of the Year: Any Department Commander, who met or exceeds his/her 100% goal for 2011 by May 11, 2011, will receive a plaque recognizing his/her achievement. The plaque will be presented at the National Convention in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Gold Brigade Recruiter Award: A Legionnaire who recruits 50 or more NEW members by May 11, 2011, will qualify for enrollment in the elite GOLD BRIGADE of The American Legion.
Post Honor Ribbons: Post Honor Ribbons were shipped to 1,795 Posts whose 2011 membership as of December 31, 2010 exceeded their final 2010 membership.
Certificate of Meritorious Service: These certificates were awarded for 128 Posts for attaining a new All-Time-High membership for 2011 by December 31, 2010.
Five Consecutive Years All-Time-High: These citations are awarded to posts with five or more consecutive years of All-Time High membership in 2011.
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 161 District Commanders "Race To The Top" District Commanders are the lynchpin of The American Legion's Chain of Command, serving as the vital link between the National and Department organizations and all Posts. As we are all aware, the local Post is where the "rubber meets the road." If it doesn't happen at the Post level -- it doesn't happen at all. District Commanders are charged with insuring all Posts in their District maintain their vitality. Consequently, this unique award was created to provide a meaningful incentive for the five Top District Commanders in each category and reward their successful membership efforts. The winning District Commanders and guests receive: • Distinguished guests of the National Commander at National Convention. • 1st class hotel accommodations for four nights at Convention location. • Legion cap that signifies they are Race-To-The-Top winners. Competition is divided into five categories based on the membership of the district without regard to geographic locations. District Commanders will compete in each of the following categories based on the final 2010 totals, and a top district commander for the national award will be selected from each of the five categories. Second and Third place awards will also be presented in each category.
Category I Districts of 15 to 1,499 members Category II Districts of 1,500 to 2,999 members Category III Districts of 3,000 to 4,999 members Category IV Districts of 5,000 to 7,499 members Category V Districts of 7,500 and above members
Trip to National Convention will be presented to the Top District Commander and spouse in each category whose district membership on March 31st represents the greatest percentage over the final previous year membership of that district. Cannot be less than 100% to qualify. First Place Award entitles the winner and a guest to attend the 2011 National Convention in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Second Place Awards will be presented to the district commander in each category whose district membership on March 31st represents the second highest percentage over the final previous year membership of that district. Cannot be less than 100% to qualify. Winners will receive a $500 Check. Third Place Awards will be presented to the district commander in each category whose district membership on March 31st represents the third highest percentage over the final previous year membership of that district. Cannot be less than 100% to qualify. Winners will receive a $375 Check. This year's winners are:
First Place Winners: (Trip To National Convention – Minneapolis, MN):
Category I Wayne Jackson Utah 104.10% District 6 Category II Bernard Remoaldo California 105.29% District 10 Category III Jay Conti Florida 100.50% District 4 Category IV None qualified Category V None Qualified
Second Place Winners ($500 Check):
Category I Pedro M. Padilla New Mexico 101.57% District 11 Category II Daniel L. Smart Montana 100.70% District 7
162 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 Category III None qualified Category IV None qualified Category V None qualified
Third Place Winners ($375 Check):
Category I Fred Nelson South Dakota 100.93% District 12 Category II None qualified Category III None qualified Category IV None qualified Category V None qualified
District Commander New Post Achievement Award Recipients: District Commanders, who achieve the goal of creating new American Legion Posts in their respective District and have the new Post's Temporary Charter Application on file at National Headquarters by May 11, 2011, qualify for a special recognition framed certificate.
District Commander Achievement Award W/District Honor Ribbon: All District Commanders whose May Target Date membership exceeds the previous year's membership by at least the number of posts in that district will be awarded the District Commander Achievement framed certificate. In addition, the District will receive a District Honor Ribbon for its District colors.
Department Recruiter of the Year: Each American Legion Post will have the opportunity to submit the name of the "Top Recruiter" for that post who has signed up the highest number of new members for the 2011 membership year by May 11, 2011. Department Adjutants will determine the Top New Member Recruiter for their respective department and certify their "Department Recruiter" to National Headquarters on or before May 28, 2011. The "Department Recruiter" properly certified from each department, will be awarded a plaque with his/her accomplishment inscribed thereon.
National Recruiter of the Year: The individual certified with the highest number of new members recruited from among all the departments will be declared "National Recruiter of the Year". The winner of this award receives an all expense paid trip to the 2011 National Convention in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Program Reports Sons of the American Legion The Sons of The American Legion has just completed a very successful National Executive Committee meeting this past weekend. As of April 29, 2011 we have a total reported membership of 313,061. This is 91.26 % of our 100% target and 89% of our membership goal for 2011 of 350,000 members. Again this year, we remained a strong supporter of the Child Welfare Foundation, raising $206,101 total to date as of April 19, 2011. During the National Executive Committee meeting this past weekend an additional amount of $83,789 was donated to the Foundation, with more coming prior to May 31st. The total, after the donations this weekend, is over $289,890, which is 56% of our goal of $516,000. The SAL is also focused on assisting The American Legion through donations to the National Emergency Fund. As of April 26, 2011 we have donated over $16,335 to NEF.
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 163 During the National Executive Committee meeting this past weekend $8,184 was donated to the NEF Fund, with more coming in all of the time. One hundred sixty four (164) National Executive Committeemen, Alternates, Commission and Committee members attended the 2011 Spring National Executive Committee meeting representing 46 detachments. Thirty-six (36) guests also attended. The Member Training and Development Committee continued training our members with the National Management Institute. To date, there are 233 S.A.L. leaders have now completed all phases of this three session Management training. Twenty graduated during this 11th Anniversary session. All graduates receive a Certificate of Graduation. The N.M.I. is a three-course seminar that encompasses Communication Skills and Public Appearances, Time Management and Personal Administration, Building Action Plans for results, Driving for Results, Develop Oneself, Acting with Integrity and Thinking Strategically. In addition to the NMI there was a training session conducted on Public Speaking. In addition to the donations for CWF and NEF, our members presented the following donations: Children's Miracle Network $3,581, Legacy Scholarship Fund $100, Operation Military Kids $200, Fisher House $300 and Operation Comfort Warriors $420. The total donations received this weekend, without the resolutions, totaled $96,803. The donations came from various Detachments, Districts and Squadrons from across the country. Six resolutions were presented to the National Executive Committee for consideration. Four were recommended for adoption and are attached and two were received and filed. The six resolutions presented and the dispositions are as follows:
Resolution Title Number Action Taken Child Welfare Foundation Donation of Recommend $1,000 in Memory of The American Legion Approval NEC 1 - S11 Past National Commander John H. Geiger (IL) Child Welfare Foundation Donation of Recommend $1,000 in Memory of The American Legion Approval NEC 2 - S11 Past National Commander Joe L. Matthews (TX) Child Welfare Foundation Donation of Recommend NEC 3 - S11 $3,000 from the 2011 Budget Approval Expanding the Number of Commission Recommend NEC 4 - S11 Members on the SAL National Commissions Approval Endorsement of Mark Serverance (CA) for Received and Filed NEC 5 - S11 National Vice Commander West Endorsement of Christopher Huntzinger Received and Filed NEC 6 - S10 (PA) for National Commander
With our membership goal for this year appearing to be very attainable, we appear to be heading towards another record year. Our members from around the country have been actively supporting the programs and ideals of our parent organization, The American Legion. The Sons of The American Legion will continue to work for the benefit of our veterans who helped make this country great. Our work in assisting veterans in the local VA Medical Centers and Hospitals continues to grow and will remain the top priority of the S.A.L.
164 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 Through the use of our in-house training courses, and the mentoring from our current leaders, our members will continue to enhance our dedication to the purposes and programs of The American Legion. We will continue to develop in-depth programs so that the Sons of The American Legion will become even more of an asset to The American Legion Family. On behalf of the members of the Sons of The American Legion, I would like to thank the Internal Affairs Commission, the S.A.L. sub-committee and the division staff for their help and guidance. A special thanks to Mr. Larry Besson, Mr. George West, Mr. John Querfeld, and Mr. John Kerestan, through their perseverance and dedication the S.A.L. program has grown to where we are today. I am very pleased with the work and dedication of the National Executive Committee, our Detachments and our members from which our further growth is insured.
Internal Affairs Sub-Committee Report on the Sons of The American Legion
The Sons of The American Legion Sub-Committee of Internal Affairs met at 11 a.m. on May 2, 2011. Members present were George V. West (NH), Chairman; Larry D. Sheets (FL), member; Philip J. Surprenant (MD), member; Herbert W. Odell (TX), member; Matthew Herndon (IN) Assistant Director, IA & Membership, Denise Lhamon, SAL secretary. The National Commander of the Sons of The American Legion, Mr. David L. Dew (TX) and SAL National Advisory Chairman Douglas P. Bible (MN) were introduced and gave brief comments on SAL programs, goals, and accomplishments for this year. Past National Commander Douglas Bible (MN) provided the Commanders Advisory Committee report and recommendation for SAL National Commander 2013. Also, present were Jim Roberts (FL), leading candidate for SAL National Commander and Chris Huntzinger (PA) candidate for SAL National Commander. All the SAL members in attendance thanked the Sub-Committee for their support and assistance throughout the year. The SAL members were excused and we expressed our thanks to the Sons of The American Legion for their accomplishments, continued growth and support to The American Legion programs and family. There were six (6) resolutions that came before the Sub-Committee that required action from the Internal Affairs Commission and the National Executive Committee of The American Legion. They are as follows:
SAL NEC-1-S11 – Child Welfare Foundation Donation of $1,000 in Memory of American Legion Past National Commander John H. Geiger (IL) – Recommend approval SAL NEC-2-S11 – Child Welfare Foundation Donation of $1,000 in Memory of American Legion Past National Commander Joe L. Matthews (TX) – Recommend approval SAL NEC-3-S10 – Child Welfare Foundation Donation of $3,000 from the SAL 2011 Budget Line item – Recommend approval SAL NEC-4-S11 – Expansion of the Number of SAL Commission Members for Americanism, Children & Youth, and Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation – Recommend approval SAL NEC-5-S11 – Endorsement of Mark Serverance (CA) for National Vice Commander West – Recommend to accept and receive and file SAL NEC-6-S11 – Endorsement of Christopher Huntzinger (PA) for National Commander - Recommend to accept and receive and file
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 165 The Sub-Committee concurs with the recommended actions as listed above. The Sub-Committee reviewed and discussed the suggestions and recommendations from the SAL National Commander. All items were taken under advisement and will require additional time and more detailed justification for resolution. The Sub-Committee then reviewed all Candidates for National Commander, National Vice Commanders, National Appointments for all Commissions/Committee for 2011-2012, and the SAL National Commander candidates for 2012 and 2013. All candidates and appointments were approved. The Sub-Committee approved the SAL National Advisory Selection Committee's recommendation for Joseph Gladden (MD) as the 2013-2014 SAL National Commander. The Sub-Committee reviewed the letter presented by PNC Douglas Bible, Chairman of the Commander's Advisory Committee and it was recommended to hold for further study. The meeting recessed at 12:35 p.m. and reconvened at 4:00 p.m. at the Sheraton Hotel. The Sub-Committee reviewed the National Commander's wish list and here are our recommendations. • Request for European travel for the National Commander – rejected due to the cost factor. • Request for the five National Vice Commanders to receive a call-in during the Washington Conference – rejected due to the cost involved and no real role for the attendance. • Request for a credit card with a limit of $2,000 – the Sub-Committee recommends approval of a credit card with a limit of $1,000 for emergency use only. • Request for a cell phone with email capabilities – the Sub-Committee recommends to hold for further study.
The Sub-Committee would like to extend a thank you to National staff members Matthew Herndon and Denise Lhamon for their assistance in John Kerestan's absence. The meeting adjourned at 4:30 p.m.
Resolutions Approved and forwarded to Sub-Committee on Resolutions
Resolution No. 31 Creation of Special Committee to Formulate Plans for Observance of 100th Anniversary of The American Legion Resolution No. 32 Amend Resolution 35: "American Legion Riders as a National Program", National Executive Committee, October 17-18, 2007 Resolution No. 33 Retirement of the POW/MIA Flag as Part of the POW/MIA Empty Chair Ceremony Resolution No. 34 Rescind Resolution 14, May 5-6, 2010, 100th Anniversary Commemorative American Legion Coin
Approved and forwarded to the Finance Commission Resolution No. 1 The American Legion John H. Geiger Operations Center Resolution No. 6 Armed Services Academy Awards Update Resolution No. 7 Authorization for The American Legion and Legion Racing to enter into an Agreement with US Coin Boards, LLC, to Raise Funds for the Legion Racing Freedom Car
166 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 Resolution No. 12 Label the Four Pillars on the National Headquarters Building in Indianapolis
Disposition of all other resolutions is addressed in Addendum A.
Conclusion Thank you for your assistance and for giving us the opportunity to appear before you. Our commission is "Still Serving America."
Addendum A: Resolutions Not Approved
Rejected Resolution No. 201 (MX) (2010 Nat'l. Conv.) Inclusion of Foreign Departments in the National Membership Awards Program Resolution No. 240 (MN) (2010 Nat'l. Conv.) Study Impact on Female Membership Caused by Lack of Programs for Spouses Resolution No. 267 (ID) (2010 Nat'l. Conv.) Inclusion of Foreign Departments in the National Membership Awards Program
Held for Study Resolution No. 264 (IL) (2010 Nat'l. Conv.) Department Service Officers Information on Dues Notices
Addendum B: List of Sons of The American Legion Resolutions
In compliance with Resolution 21 "entitled", "Establish Procedure for Handling Matters Originating from SAL National Conventions and SAL National Executive Committees", adopted by the National Executive Committee of The American Legion at its meeting April 30-May 1, 1973, this is to report disposition made by the Internal Affairs Commission of SAL actions taken at the National Executive Committee April 30- May 1, 2011.
Approved
Resolution SAL NEC-1-S11 Child Welfare Foundation Donation of $1,000 in Memory of American Legion Past National Commander John H. Geiger (IL) Resolution SAL NEC-2-S11 Child Welfare Foundation donation of $1,000 in memory of American Legion Past National Commander Joe L. Matthews (TX) Resolution SAL NEC-3-S11 Child Welfare Foundation donation of $3,000 from the SAL 2011 Budget line item Resolution SAL NEC-4-S11 Expansion of the Number of SAL Commission Members for Americanism, Children & Youth, and Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation
Sons of The American Legion Resolutions Approved
Resolution No. NEC 1–S11 Title: Child Welfare Foundation Donation of $1,000 in Memory of The American Legion Past National Commander John H. Geiger (IL)
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 167 Origin: National Commander Dew WHEREAS, On January 10,2011 The American Legion Family lost a great, leader among leaders, Past National Commander John H. Geiger (IL) passed away; and WHEREAS, Mr. John H. Geiger served as National Commander of The American Legion from 1971 - 1972; and WHEREAS, We, the Sons of The American Legion, are deeply saddened by the loss of this very distinguished member of The American Legion family; now, therefore be it, RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of the Sons of The American Legion in regular session in Indianapolis, Indiana, April 30 – May 1, 2011, That the National Organization of the Sons of The American Legion memorializes the accomplishments and deeds of John H. Geiger, Past National Commander of The American Legion; and, be it further; RESOLVED, That a donation in the amount of One Thousand Dollars be presented to The Child Welfare Foundation, in memory of Past National Commander, Mr. John H. Geiger; and, be it finally; RESOLVED, That the funds be taken from the 2011 Child Welfare Foundation Donation budgeted line.
Resolution No. NEC 2–S11 Title: Child Welfare Foundation Donation of $1,000 in Memory of The American Legion Past National Commander Joe L. Matthews (TX) Origin: National Commander Dew WHEREAS, On July 19, 2010 The American Legion Family lost a great, leader among leaders, Past National Commander Joe L. Matthews (TX) passed away; and WHEREAS, Mr. Matthews served as National Commander of The American Legion from 1972 - 1973; and WHEREAS, We, the Sons of The American Legion, are deeply saddened by the loss of this very distinguished member of The American Legion family; now, therefore, be it, RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of the Sons of The American Legion in regular session in Indianapolis, Indiana, April 30 – May 1, 2011, That the National Organization of the Sons of The American Legion memorializes the accomplishments and deeds of Joe L. Matthews, Past National Commander of The American Legion; and, be it further; RESOLVED, That a donation in the amount of One Thousand Dollars be presented to The Child Welfare Foundation, in memory of Past National Commander, Mr. Joe L. Matthews; and, be it finally; RESOLVED, That the funds be taken from the 2011 Child Welfare Foundation Donation budgeted line.
Resolution No. NEC 3–S11 Title: Child Welfare Foundation Donation of $3,000 from the 2011 Budget Origin: Child Welfare Committee WHEREAS, The Child Welfare Foundation is a vital part of the Sons of The American Legion since its inception in 1987; and WHEREAS, There is a constant and vital need for funding of many programs and grants that can assist children in need; and WHEREAS, Donations by the Sons of The American Legion have provided greatly needed assistance to these children in our country; and WHEREAS, The support and recognition provided by The American Legion Child Welfare Foundation has further established our organization as a true partner in the goals and principles of the "Legion Family"; now, therefore, be it,
168 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of the Sons of The American Legion in regular sessions in Indianapolis, Indiana, April 30 - May 1, 2011, That a donation in the amount of Three Thousand Dollars, ($3,000) be made to The American Legion Child Welfare Foundation; and, be it further; RESOLVED, That the funds be taken from the 2011 Child Welfare Foundation Donation budgeted line.
Resolution No. NEC 4–S11 Title: Expanding the Number of Commission Members on the SAL National Commissions Origin: Internal Affairs Whereas, The Sons of The American Legion National Commissions have worked to enhance the programs of the Sons of The American Legion; and Whereas, The current Commission structure allows for six members per Commission; and Whereas, The Commissions consistently have seen numerous SAL members attend the Commission meetings during the Fall and Spring National Executive Committee meetings; and Whereas, Increasing the Americanism, Children & Youth and Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commissions to nine members would allow for an expansion of ideas and increased program involvement throughout the organization by utilizing the talents and dedication of our members; and Whereas, The current call in levels would be maintained by structuring which members get a call in to each National Executive Committee meeting; and Whereas, The Commission Chairman would get a call in to all National Executive Committee meetings; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of the Sons of The American Legion in regular sessions in Indianapolis, Indiana, April 30 – May 1, 2011, That the number of members on the National Americanism, Children & Youth and Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commissions of the Sons of The American Legion be expanded from six (6) to nine (9). The appointments will be for three years each with three appointments being made annually; and, be it further RESOLVED, That six (6) members from each Commission will receive a call in to the National Executive Committee meetings; and, be it further RESOLVED, That the call in structure will be allotted as follows: Beginning with the Fall 2011 NEC meeting - the members with one and two years remaining on their appointments, after the close of the National Convention, will receive a call in to the Fall National Executive Committee meeting. Continuing with the Spring 2012 NEC meeting - the members with one and three years remaining on their appointments, after the close of the National Convention, will receive a call in to the Spring National Executive Committee meeting; and, be it finally RESOLVED, That the Chairman of the Commissions will receive a call in to all National Executive Committee meetings.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: Commander, I move we receive and file the report of the Internal Affairs Commission, with the exception of four resolutions and two addenda. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Motion and a second on the floor to receive and file the report of the Internal Affairs Commission. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed. Carried.
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 169 Resolution No. 31: Creation of a Committee to Formulate Plans for Observance of the 100th Anniversary of The American Legion Origin: Internal Affairs Commission Submitted by: Internal Affairs Commission WHEREAS, The year 2019 will mark the 100th anniversary of the founding of The American Legion; and WHEREAS, The American Legion shall bring to the attention of the American people the circumstances and events that led to the founding of The American Legion; and WHEREAS, The American Legion wishes to call to the attention of the American people the record of achievements that have been accomplished by The American Legion during the 100 years since its founding, to emphasize the impact the organization has had upon the American society, and the extent of its contributions to the national security and the welfare of military veterans, their families and their communities; and WHEREAS, The American Legion wishes to set forth the objectives and the aims that will motivate its programs and activities during the years ahead and to illustrate the contribution made to the future of our country as intended by these programs and activities; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That all departments, posts, and individual Legionnaires be, and hereby, are urged to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the founding of The American Legion; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a 100th Anniversary Observance Committee be formed and the National Commander be authorized to appoint members to serve on said committee until completion of duties after the 2019 National Convention; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a serving National Commander may replace appointed members as determined necessary, provided that the National Executive Committee shall approve such appointments; and, be it further RESOLVED, That the Chairman of the 100th Anniversary Observance Committee has the authority to appoint consultants as needed with the approval of the National Commander; and, be it further RESOLVED, That the National Adjutant make such staff, as may be necessary, available to work with the 100th Anniversary Observance Committee for the purposes of research and assistance; and, be it finally RESOLVED, That the 100th Anniversary Observance Committee shall make its initial report of its progress and recommendations to the National Executive Committee at the May 2012 meeting and subsequent meetings as directed by the National Commander.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBER SCHMIDT: This resolution has the approval of the Internal Affairs Commission, the Resolutions Subcommittee, therefore, I move for its adoption. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You heard the motion and second to approve resolution number 31. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed. Carried. With the passing of resolution number 31, I, as national commander, recommend the following 100th Anniversary Committee members: Past National Commander Robert Spanogle, Michigan, Chairman; Past National Commander David Rehbein, Iowa, Vice Chairman. Members: Angel Juarez, Arizona; Michael E. Walton, Illinois; Charles J. Zelinsky, Illinois; David O. Warnken, Kansas; Paul A. Morin, Massachusetts; Derek J.
170 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 Blumke, Michigan; Lowry Finley-Jackson, Missouri; Pierre Harper, New York; Charemon Dunham, South Dakota; Michael Schlee, Maryland; and Joe Hovish, Indiana. RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN HEDRICK: Commander, I move we approve the appointments for the Anniversary Committee. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You heard the motion and second that my recommendations for the 100th Anniversary Committee be approved. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed. Carried.
Resolution No. 32: Amend Resolution 35: "American Legion Riders as a National Program" National Executive Committee, October 17-18, 2007 Origin: Internal Affairs Commission Submitted by: Internal Affairs Commission WHEREAS, American Legion Riders (ALR) was established in 1993 as a Post level activity at Garden City American Legion Post 396, Department of Michigan; and WHEREAS, The ALR groups have since expanded to more than 1,200 local chapters in all 50 domestic departments and in two foreign departments; and WHEREAS, Membership in the ALR has grown to include more than 100,000 members of The American Legion, The American Legion Auxiliary, and the Sons of The American Legion; and WHEREAS, Resolution 35: "American Legion Riders as a National Program", NEC, October 17-18, 2007 has been a guiding document for the formation of post and department ALR programs under the support of the hosting posts and departments; and WHEREAS, The third resolve clause in Resolution 35 contains recommended guidelines for such programs; and WHEREAS, The National Commander's ALR current Ad Hoc Committee to The Internal Affairs Commission has identified ambiguous content regarding eligibility criteria for The American Legion Riders and made specific recommendations for improving such content; and WHEREAS, It is in the best interest of The American Legion to review and amend, from time to time, such guidelines in efforts to provide more effective direction to The American Legion Riders programs; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That guideline numbers 2 and 3 of the third resolving clause of Resolution 35: "American Legion Riders as a National Program", NEC, October 17-18, 2007, which states: "2. Each ALR member shall own a motorcycle 3. Each ALR member shall be properly licensed and insured as required by state law" Shall be amended as follows: "2. Each ALR member shall establish and maintain membership by owning, individually or through marriage, a motorcycle licensed and insured as required by state law 3. ALR programs may allow for continued membership for those members who have given up motorcycle ownership because of age, illness, injury, or other reasons outside the member's control".
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBER SCHMIDT: This resolution has the approval of the Internal Affairs Commission, the Resolutions Subcommittee, therefore, I move for its adoption. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Motion and second on the floor to approve resolution number 32. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed. Carried.
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 171 Resolution No. 33: Retirement of the POW/MIA Flag as Part of the POW/MIA Empty Chair Ceremony Origin: Res. No. 229 (IA) 2010 National Convention Submitted by: Internal Affairs Commission WHEREAS, Resolution #288 adopted at the 67th National Convention outlines the purpose and reason for placement of the POW/MIA flag and gives the command to place the POW/MIA flag on the empty chair; and WHEREAS, The flag draped over the chair represents a POW/MIA seated in the chair; and WHEREAS, Many times the POW/MIA flag is not retired at the conclusion of the meeting because there is no reference on how or when to retire the flag; and WHEREAS, By allowing the POW/MIA to remain seated in the chair after the meeting is adjourned, shows a disrespect to the POW/MIA that we pledged to support in Resolution #288; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That a proper retirement of the POW/MIA flag be given in the closing ceremony of the American Legion's Officer's Guide with the addition of the command to the Sergeant-at-Arms to retire the POW/MIA flag prior to the command to retire the Flag of our Country.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBER SCHMIDT: Resolution 33 has the approval of the Internal Affairs Commission, the Resolutions Subcommittee, therefore, I move for its adoption. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Motion and second on the floor to approve resolution number 33. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed. Carried.
Resolution No. 34: Rescind Resolution 14, NEC, May 5-6, 2010, 100th Anniversary Commemorative American Legion Coin Origin: Internal Affairs Commission Submitted by: Internal Affairs Commission WHEREAS, The American Legion was chartered by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic war-time veterans service organization; and WHEREAS, The 100th Anniversary of The American Legion will occur in 2019; and WHEREAS, Resolution 14, NEC, May 5-6, 2010, 100th Anniversary Commemorative American Legion Coin called on the U.S. Congress to enact legislation to mint a 100th Anniversary American Legion Commemorative Coin in compliance with the Commemorative Coin Reform Act of 1996 ("CCRA of 1996"), Public Law 104-208; and WHEREAS, Based on further research and discussions after the resolution was approved with the Americanism Commission, the Internal Affairs Commission determined that this program has potential to raise funds for The Legacy Scholarship but there are inherent risks in the program which it may not be beneficial to The American Legion; and WHEREAS, The American Legion should engage in their own fundraising efforts without incurring the unknown risks inherent in the U.S. Mint Commemorative Coin Program; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That The American Legion rescind Resolution 14, dated 5-6 May 2010, Titled: 100th Anniversary Commemorative American Legion Coin because of the potential
172 Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 financial risks in the U.S. Mint Commemorative Coin Program, and this allows The American Legion's 100th Anniversary Committee, once established, to recommend the appropriate course of action in the development of all promotional materials, to include commemorative coins.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBER SCHMIDT: Resolution 34 has the approval of the Internal Affairs Commission, your Resolutions Subcommittee, therefore, I move for its adoption. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Motion and second on the floor to approve resolution number 34. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed. Carried. RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBER SCHMIDT: Commander, attached to the report are Addenda A and B. I move that the action of the Internal Affairs Commission become the action of the National Executive Committee. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Motion and second that Addenda A and B. become the action of the NEC. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed. Carried. Before we have announcements, does anybody have any money they would just like to get rid of? NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBER PROCTOR (FL): Mr. Commander, I ask that you grant permission for the president of the Past Department Commanders Club, Dennis Boland, for a presentation. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Recognize Dennis Boland. ...At this time National Vice Commander Schrier assumed the Chair. ALTERNATE NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBER BOLAND (FL): While everybody is lining up, as Commander Foster mentioned this morning the tragedy of the recent devastating tornados that that have ravaged our southern states has one again made us realize the value of our National Emergency Fund. Mr. Commander, it is my honor as President of the Past Department Commanders Club, to present you a check in the amount of $5,000 for the NEF, ensuring that our fellow veterans, with help of the NEF Fund, can start on the path to recovery. (Applause) NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Okay. We'll accept donations to any program that The American Legion has. Just be specific when you come up and give your amount. DEPARTMENT ADJUTANT STANCIL (NC): The Department of the North Carolina, Child Welfare Fund $1,053.25; National Emergency Fund, $1,448.25. DEPARTMENT ADJUTANT KNOX (GA): Department of Georgia, $6,250 for the National Emergency Fund. NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBER KEISER (NY): Commander Foster, on behalf of the Department of New York, we would like to donate $10,000 to the Child Legacy Fund. NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBER HEIGERT (MO): Commander, on behalf of the Department of Missouri, for the National Emergency Fund, money we raised through our annual golf tournament, plus other donations, a check for $7,144.15. DEPARTMENT ADJUTANT WATSON (PA): On behalf of the great state of Pennsylvania, with over 169,000 members, I would like to present to you a check for $16,041 for the National Emergency Fund. NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBER TREVINO (NM): Mr. Commander, from my home Post 7, we are happy to give $1,500 to the NEF. NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBER NEYLON (NH): Mr. Commander, on behalf of the Department of New Hampshire, I have check for $1,000 for the NEF.
Proceedings of Wednesday, May 4, 2011 173 NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Anybody else? This is too easy. We appreciate the donations for our programs. Each one is as important as the other and it will go a long way to helping people in need, in an emergency or whatever provisions that are needed to help them get back on their feet. Thank you very much. (Applause) ... At this time National Commander Foster resumed the Chair. I recognize the national adjutant for announcements.
Announcements
NATIONAL ADJUTANT WHEELER: The National Commander's Dinner honoring members of the NEC will occur at the Sheraton Hotel City Centre, six o'clock reception, Circle Suite, Lower Level; seven o'clock, dinner in the Meridian Ballroom. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: At this time I need a motion to go into executive session. RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN HEDRICK: So, move Mr. Commander to go into executive session. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Motion and a second to go into executive session. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed. Please ready the room for executive session please. ...At 3:35 p.m., the National Executive Committee went into executive session. …At 3:50 p.m., the National Executive Committee resolved itself out of executive session and recessed until 8:30 a.m., Thursday, May 5, 2011.
PROCEEDINGS
of the
NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Thursday, May 5, 2011
... At 8:30 a.m., May 5, 2011, the National Executive Committee was called to order by National Commander Jimmie L. Foster and the following proceedings were had. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Sergeant-at-arms, cause the NEC to come to a salute. ...The National Executive Committee stood and rendered a salute to the Colors. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: We will have the invocation by Reverend Daniel J. Seehafer from Wisconsin.
Invocation Rev. Daniel J. Seehafer, Wisconsin National Chaplain
We pray. Heavenly Father, we certainly come before You this morning. Again, we thank You for the ability to gather as family, as friends. I don't know about the entertainment, however. (Laughter) But, Lord, You understand it is good to be here. Super good to be here. Again, as it is with purpose, again serving America's veterans every day. We just ask, Lord, that You would bless the things that we do here, again to Your glory, for the benefit of our veterans and their families. In Your most holy name we do pray. Amen.
NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Join me in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Pledge of Allegiance and Preamble to the Constitution of The American Legion
...The National Executive Committee stood and recited the Pledge of Allegiance followed by the Preamble to the Constitution of The American Legion. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: I now call on National Adjutant Daniel Wheeler, Virginia, for the roll call.
Roll Call
National Officers
National Commander Jimmie L. Foster, Alaska
National Adjutant Daniel S. Wheeler, Virginia
National Chaplain Rev. Daniel J. Seehafer, Wisconsin
176 Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 National Vice Commanders Russell J. Henry, Louisiana John M. Mella, Michigan Carlos Orria-Medina, Puerto Rico Eugene R. Pytka, Rhode Island William F. Schrier, Washington
Past National Commanders
William E. Galbraith, Nebraska (Excused) Butch L. Miller, Virginia Michael J. Kogutek, New York (Excused) Hon. Alan G. Lance, Sr. Idaho (Excused) Keith A. Kreul, Wisconsin (Excused) Ray G. Smith, North Carolina (Excused) Clarence M. Bacon, Maryland Richard J. Santos, Maryland (Excused) John P. 'Jake' Comer, Mass. (Excused) Ronald F. Conley, Pennsylvania Hon. H. F. Gierke, North Dakota Hon. John A. Brieden, III, Texas Miles S. Epling, West Virginia Thomas P. Cadmus, Michigan Robert S. Turner, Georgia Thomas L. Bock, Colorado Dominic D. DiFrancesco, Pennsylvania (Excused) Paul A. Morin, Massachusetts Bruce Thiesen, California (Excused) Martin F. 'Marty' Conatser, Illinois William M. Detweiler, Louisiana (Excused) Robert W. Spanogle, Michigan Daniel A. Ludwig, Minnesota David K. Rehbein, Iowa Joseph J. Frank, Missouri Clarence E. Hill, Florida Anthony G. Jordan, Maine (Excused)
National Executive Committeemen
Department Committeemen Alternate Alabama F. Wayne Turner Alaska James E. Pisa Arizona Deodoro M. Aguilar Arkansas Cleave B. Weiss California Edward C. Landis Colorado Ralph P. Bozella Connecticut Richard W. Anderson Delaware Lyman R. Brenner D.C. Theodore A. Webb Florida Robert J. Proctor—Excused Dennis R. Boland France Liam Kane Georgia Charles F. Wessinger Hawaii Andrew W. Johnson Idaho Wayne D. Mitchell Illinois Eugene Thompson Indiana W. Darrell Hansel Iowa John J. Ross Kansas David O. Warnken Kentucky Randall Coffman Louisiana Charles D. Aucoin Maine Robert A. Owen Maryland Leroy E. Thornton Massachusetts Milton K. Lashus Mexico Jerry A. King
Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 177 Michigan Darwin Krieger Minnesota Raymond DeZurik Mississippi Robert E. Gosa Missouri Richard A. Heigert Montana Sylvia A. M. Beals Nebraska Douglas L. Boldt Nevada Ron Gutzman New Hampshire John E. Neylon New Jersey William 'Billy' Mack New Mexico Taurino J. Trevino New York Richard R. Keiser North Carolina Jerry L. Hedrick North Dakota Curtis O. Twete Ohio Henry S. Long Oklahoma Warren D. Wilson Oregon Charles E. Schmidt Pennsylvania Richard A. Coccimiglio Philippines Charles H. Cathey, Jr.Excused Herbert J. Scholten Puerto Rico Alberto RodriguezExcused Monserrate OquendoExcused Rhode Island Ronald P. Levasseur South Carolina Billy W. Bell South Dakota Paul A. Evenson Tennessee Rollen D. Bradshaw, Sr. Texas James E. Prendergast Utah William E. Christoffersen Vermont Barbara Bushaw Virginia George C. Lussier, Jr.Excused Thomas E. Saunders Washington Michael L. Montaney West Virginia William W. Kile Wisconsin David L. Gough Wyoming Gerald L. Jacobs
NATIONAL ADJUTANT WHEELER: That completes the roll call, commander. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: I declare a quorum. Is there any unfinished business of the preceding day at this time? None. Very good. I now call on Robert Morrill from New York, chairman of the Public Relations Commission for their report.
Oral Report: Public Relations Commission Robert L. Morrill, New York, Chairman
Thank you, Mr. Commander, members of the NEC. Good morning. The Public Relations Commission of The American Legion met at 9:00 a.m., in Room 105 of the national headquarters on Monday, May 2nd, 2011. Please take the time to peruse our full report on your desk. With over 700,000 amateur radio operators, hams, in the country, many of them being veterans who served in various electronic and communication fields in the military, they constitute a demographic that can and should be served by The American Legion. The commission has studied the idea of a club, so to speak, set-up by the national organization to accommodate these veterans that are ham operators. Monthly radio nets
178 Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 on the air could promote not only amateur radio as a disaster preparedness tool, but also veterans' issues and referrals to Legion service officers in different parts of the country. Additionally, ham radio tends to attract youth which is one of the pillars of The American Legion. Currently, there are five licensed staff members who could initiate club operations. Membership would be open to all federally licensed amateur radio operators who are members of The American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary, and Sons of The American Legion. You have already passed a resolution relating to this subject, and we thank you very much for that. The Powerful Force television PSA package distributed by Goodwill Communications to major cable systems around the country has received almost 18,000 airplays in 27 states and 45 cities, with a value $2,131,000. CEO Bill Goodwill told the commission during the Washington Conference that The American Legion's Powerful Force for the Nation package was a top performer in the fall distribution. Current plans are to include the radio PSAs in the Spring/Summer RadioPak distribution. However it is important that we use a two-prong approach by having post public relations officers take the PSAs directly to their local station program and public service directors. Many of them offer opportunities to add local tags with their post information contacts. Following the record-setting outbreak of tornados and floods across the country, PR and IR commission staff produced a 60-second public service announcement and wrote 60-second PSA text for use by the local announcers to promote the National Emergency Fund availability to storm victims of The American Legion Family. The spots were distributed directly by e-mail to nearly 900 radio stations affected in the area across the country. The commission staff has been working with the producers of a new national television program, "The Making of a Star," to debut on the CW Network this coming season. Five American Legion posts will host auditions in the filming of the series across the country. In honor of the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, the first season is exclusively for U.S. veterans and servicemembers, and has the support of The American Legion. The series is set to film in New York City and will premier in primetime in July with 10 consecutive weeks, with some of the biggest names in entertainment scheduled to grace the stage. The American Legion PSAs and messages will be integrated throughout the season. The winner of "The Making of a Star" will be chosen during the grand finale event which will be a live telecast in front of an audience of invited troops and a stellar line-up of celebrity guest performers aboard the USS Intrepid in New York City. Auditions for "The Making of a Star" are open only to U.S. veterans and servicemembers. Additionally, the show is planning to make a significant financial contribution to The American Legion. I've been in a lot of meetings over the years and I've seen a lot of tap dancing, so I think some of you people might be eligible compete in this contest. (Laughter) The new PR System Tool Kit is almost complete. It's provides practical PR products that can be edited, as well as electronic products that can be downloaded for local use from DVDs and direct Internet connections. A PR team is going to attend the GI Film Festival next week. The "History of The American Legion: A National Legacy" by Blackhorse Studios received an honorable mention. Operation Comfort Warriors fundraising is more important than ever since the Pepsi grant is now gone. Thanks to the Refresh Everything program, The American Legion was able to purchase $250,000 in gifts for wounded warriors over the last year. The new Public Relations Reflector has been operational now for two months and has precipitated further growth as breaking news releases were placed on the new medium in near real-time to be used by American Legion public relations practitioners with local media. Anyone involved in The American Legion public relations can
Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 179 subscribe by sending their email request to [email protected]. Each posting by anyone on the Reflector is sent in real-time for sharing information, links, asking questions or discussing breaking news of interest to The American Legion. There are currently over 100 PR Reflector subscribers. And finally, the media marketing staff in Washington continues to promote The American Legion programs and expertise at the national level in Washington. Mr. Commander, I've had the privilege for a number of years of servicing on the Public Relations Commission, and during that time I've had the opportunity to work with some really truly professional people, and I would like to introduce them to you at this time. Joe March is our director; Duane Mercier, deputy director, he just assumed that title a short time ago, congratulations Duane, and John Raughter, our communications director. (Applause) Mr. Commander, the Public Relations Commission has two resolutions. One of them you have already passed, so ask for your consideration in the one remaining. This concludes my report. I wish you all a safe travel home.
Advance Report: Public Relations Commission March 21, 2011 Robert L. Morrill, New York, Chairman
The Public Relations Commission of The American Legion met in Washington D.C. at the Renaissance Washington Hotel on Monday, March 21, 2011. Legionnaire and CEO of Goodwill Communications, Inc., Bill Goodwill provided an extensive overview of the use of public service announcements in today's competitive broadcasting and cable market. He presented an update of The American Legion "Powerful Force for Our Nation" CablePak penetration and left the commission with a plethora of suggestions and ideas for placing effective messages in varying markets. To date, American Legion television CablePak PSAs are running in 45 cities in 27 states with nearly 18,000 airplays for a total value of $2,130,869. The "Powerful Force" radio PSA package was distributed by staff directly to talk radio format stations around the country. The spots are currently being aired in Portland, Oregon; Seattle, Washington, Norfolk, Va.; Fairbanks, Nome and North Pole, Alaska; Portland, Maine, Ventura, Calif.; St. Joseph, Mo.; Lynchburg, Va.; Greenville, South Carolina and a host of other cities. The radio package CD is available free on request to any post or Legionnaire wishing to market the spots to local stations; requests to [email protected]. The current draft of the new high-tech PR System Tool Kit was shown to members. It provides practical PR products that can be edited and printed, as well as electronic product that can be downloaded for local use from DVD and direct Internet connections. New chapters on Emerging Media, Outdoor Advertising, and Electronic Marketing are included in the tool kit which will be available on DVD and will include interactive products such as videos, television and radio spots, training PowerPoint and more. More than 1,500 "History of The American Legion" DVDs, produced by Blackhorse Productions, have been sold to date. Sales at the National Convention were under 150, a bit disappointing. The product is available for purchase at the Washington Conference from the Emblem Sales booth and in the Emblem Sales catalog. It has been advertised in The American Legion Magazine, the Auxiliary Magazine and on the web site. It includes portions of the last Legion video interview granted by PNC Geiger. An advertisement appears in this month's Dispatch. It's important that Departments spread the word about this great educational and membership tool available to Legionnaires. Operation Comfort Warriors has purchased more than $250,000 of recreational and support items for wounded warriors as a result of the Pepsi grant over the last year. Staff
180 Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 had successful visits to Fort Gordon, Georgia, San Diego and Camp Pendleton, California, where electronics, backpacks, DVDs, and CDs were distributed directly to recently disabled military veterans. This month, Legionnaires are distributing comfort items to wounded warriors at Palo Alto, California. Although the Pepsi money has already been spent or committed, there is still more than $180,000 in other OCW funds. Financial contributions are always welcome. Departments, districts and posts are encouraged to forward any requests for OCW assistance to John Raughter at the national headquarters public relations office. The only criterion is that the assistance goes directly to wounded warriors in the form of items not normally provided by the military services. The first month of the new PR Reflector has precipitated further growth as breaking news releases and talking points were placed on the new medium in near real time to be used by Legion public relations practitioners with local media. Anyone involved in Legion public relations can subscribe by sending their email request to [email protected]. Each posting by anyone on the reflector is sent to all in real time for sharing information, links, asking questions or discussing breaking news of interest to The American Legion. Once a subscriber, one can send a message at [email protected]. There are currently over a hundred PR Reflector subscribers. The commission's media marketing staff in Washington continued promotion of American Legion programs and expertise to external national media. Solid working relationships have been established with Fox News, CNN, C-SPAN, Associated Press, Bloomberg News, Washington Post, Washington Times, Congressional Quarterly, Military Times and Stars & Stripes. Washington office Executive Director Peter Gaytan appeared on national cable television eight times last year – including a 40-minute slot on C-SPAN's Washington Journal. These appearances informed millions of viewers about The American Legion and its work on behalf of veterans, service members and military families. Issues ranged from the impact of reform on VA health care to private insurance companies profiting from the death benefits of those who died on active duty. From 1 Dec. 2009 to 31 Dec. 2010, staff generated 80 news stories, three feature stories for The American Legion Magazine, dozens of photographs, and 59 video clips for the Legion's website; many of the stories were also distributed to national media. American Legion experts in the DC Office were interviewed 92 times by print and website publications, 44 radio stations/webcasts, and four television reporters. Media outreach efforts resulted in substantial coverage for national commanders Clarence Hill and Jimmie Foster: 65 stories and print and website publications, 11 radio or internet audio interviews, and 13 local television broadcasts. Several audio and video productions have been completed or are underway in support of Legion TV documentation and the promotion of various Legion programs. A short promotion of the Legion Riders program was completed featuring members of the ALR Ad-Hoc Committee. Staff provided video documentation of the Operation Comfort Warriors event in San Diego, Calif. A series of television and radio PSAs on veterans' employment is in production for release in May. Video streaming will continue to be a significant part of the public relations mission including events this week, the oratorical competition in April, Boys Nation in July and National Convention in August. Staff will also support The American Legion Baseball World Series webcast in August. Former TIME correspondent, military writer and author Doug Waller provided an informative presentation about one of the Legion's founders, "Wild Bill Donovan." Gen. Donovan was a spymaster who created the OSS and modern American espionage. A Medal of Honor winner during World War I, he went on to become a millionaire Wall Street lawyer and an unsuccessful Republican candidate for governor of New York. Waller's book is a significant biography of one of the men who played a key role in the establishment of The American Legion.
Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 181 National Public Relations Chairman for the Sons of The American Legion, Damon Bradtmueller (IN), briefed the commission about the newly unveiled website which provides timely and easily accessible information about the SAL and its activities. The commission considered all eligible nominations for the Fourth Estate Award, this year including three categories: broadcast, print and new media (Internet). The three recommendations will be presented to National Commander Foster for approval. A report on The American Legion Newscenter on Twitter, designed for media, was presented. The site has been growing steadily, now with approximately 250 daily media followers. The page can be found at: http://twitter.com/AmLegionNewsCtr. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at noon.
Report: Public Relations Commission May 5, 2011 Robert L. Morrill, New York, Chairman
The Public Relations Commission of The American Legion met in Indianapolis, Indiana at National Headquarters on Monday, May 2, 2011. With over 700,000 amateur radio operators (Hams) in the country, many of them are veterans who served in various electronic and communication fields in the military, they constitute a demographic that can and should be served by The American Legion. An excellent new public relations outreach, the commission recommended formation of The American Legion Amateur Radio Club to facilitate public communication with our nation's federally licensed amateur radio operators who are veterans. Monthly radio "nets" on the air could promote not only amateur radio as a disaster preparedness tool, but also veterans' issues and referrals to Legion service officers in different parts of the country. Additionally, ham radio tends to attract youth which is one of the pillars of The American Legion. Currently there are 5 licensed staff members able to initiate club operation. Membership would be open to all federally licensed amateur radio operators who are members of The American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary or Sons of The American Legion. The "Powerful Force" television PSA package distributed by Goodwill Communications to major cable systems around the country has received almost 18,000 air plays in 28 states and 48 cities with a value of $2,154,836. CEO Bill Goodwill told the commission during the Washington Conference that The American Legion's "Powerful Force for the Nation" package was the top performer in the fall distribution. Current plans are to include the radio PSAs in the Spring/Summer RadioPak distribution. However, it is important to use a two-pronged approach by having post public relations officers take the PSAs direct to their local station program and public service directors. Many may offer an opportunity to add a local tag with their post contact information. The commission will work to get the word out as widely as possible. The radio CD package is available free on request to any post or Legionnaire wishing to market the spots to local stations in the quantities needed for their area. Send requests to [email protected]. Following the record-setting outbreak of tornadoes and floods across the country the past weeks, Public Relations staff, working with Internal Affairs staff, produced a 60- second PSA and wrote a 60-second PSA text for use by local announcers promoting the National Emergency Fund availability to storm victims of the Legion family. The spots were distributed directly by email to 1,478 radio stations in Tennessee, Louisiana, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Virginia, Alabama, Kansas, and Mississippi. Commission staff has been working with the producers of a new national television program, "The Making of a Star," to debut on the CW network this coming season. Auditions will get underway in Washington, D.C. this month for 5 Streams Global
182 Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 Entertainment's new performance reality competition series. Five American Legion posts will host auditions in the filming of the series around the country including Washington, D.C. (Post 24, Alexandria, Va.); Charlotte, N.C. (Post 23, Gastonia, N.C.); Atlanta (Post 160, Smyrna, Ga.); Chicago (Post 1941, LaGrange, Ill.); and Los Angeles (Post 43, Hollywood, Calif.). In honor of the 10-year anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, this first season is exclusively for U.S. veterans and service members and has the support of The American Legion. The series is set to film in New York City and will premiere in primetime in July for 10 consecutive weeks, with some of the biggest names in entertainment scheduled to grace the stage. American Legion PSAs and messages will be integrated throughout the season. The winner of "The Making of a Star" will be chosen during the grand finale event, which will be a live telecast in front of an audience of invited troops and a stellar line up of celebrity guest performers aboard the USS INTREPID Museum in New York. Auditions for "The Making of a Star" are open only to U.S. veterans and service members. Additionally, the show plans to make a significant financial contribution to American Legion charities. The new PR System Tool Kit is almost completed; a prototype was shown to members. It provides practical PR products that can be edited and printed, as well as electronic product that can be downloaded for local use from DVD and direct Internet connections. New chapters on Emerging Media, Outdoor Advertising, and Electronic Marketing are included in the tool kit which will be available on DVD and will include interactive products such as videos, television and radio spots, training PowerPoint and more. A PR team will be attending the GI Film Festival next week. The History of The American Legion: A National Legacy by Blackhorse Studios received an honorable mention and will be one of three selections played on a loop in the exhibit hall at the GIFF on May 14-15. Operation Comfort Warriors fundraising is more important than ever since the Pepsi grant is now gone. Thanks to the Refresh Everything program, The American Legion was able to purchase $250,000 of gifts for wounded warriors over the last year. The new PR Reflector has been operational now for two months and has precipitated further growth as breaking news releases were placed on the new medium in near real time to be used by Legion public relations practitioners with local media. Anyone involved in Legion public relations can subscribe by sending their email request to [email protected]. Each posting by anyone on the reflector is sent to all in real time for sharing information, links, asking questions or discussing breaking news of interest to The American Legion. Once a subscriber, one can send a message at [email protected] email.net. There are currently over a hundred PR Reflector subscribers. A video training project for Internal Affairs and Membership on the basics of Post Development and Revitalization is in development. Staff will be working with a team in the Department of Michigan in coming weeks to gather interviews and research. The goal is to have a preview by National Convention and introduce the video during Legion College in October. Live website streaming of the National High School Oratorical finals was successful; the next streaming venture will be at Boys Nation in July. The commission's media marketing staff in Washington continued promotion of American Legion programs and expertise to external national media. On March 22, a press conference at the National Press Club was held to announce the results of The American Legion Women Veterans Survey conducted online in January 2011. The survey was conducted by ProSidian Consulting of Charlotte, N.C. and 3,012 women veterans responded. The press conference was broadcast later in the day on C-SPAN and also covered by the Washington Times, Christian Broadcast Network, Stars & Stripes, the White House and the Department of Veterans Affairs. On Feb. 16, Washington Office Executive Director Peter Gaytan appeared on the Fox News Channel to discuss the
Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 183 Legion's views on the JPMorgan Chase issue. The bank had been overcharging thousands of service members and their families on mortgage interest, in clear violation of the Servicemen's Civil Relief Act passed in 2003. Since January, staff has sent out 27 media advisories in advance of the national commander's visits or for the Legion's "System Worth Saving" site visits to VA medical facilities. Staff also provided the Legion website with stories, photos and video clips, as well as an edited version of the March 22 press conference for DVD distribution. The Public Relations Commission approved two resolutions for NEC consideration.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN HEDRICK: Mr. Commander, I move the report of the Public Relations Commission be received and filed with the exception of one resolution and no addendum. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and the second to receive and file the report. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Resolution No. 16: Rescinding of Public Relations Non-Legislative Policy Resolutions Origin: Public Relations Commission Submitted by: Public Relations Commission WHEREAS, In accordance with resolutions of the 1959 and 1960 National Convention, the National Executive Committee, through its Program Study Committee, has caused to be made a review of all non-legislative policy resolutions, and such action has been taken in further conference with the action of the 1936 National Convention which established policy on the life of such resolutions; and WHEREAS, The National Public Relations Commission has concluded an extensive review of 30 National Executive Committee resolutions relating to public relations from the year 1947 through 1992; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That the following resolutions be and they are being rescinded by reason for (1) being obsolete, (2) accomplishment of purpose, (3) being superseded by later resolutions, (4) being in conflict with later resolutions, (5) being duplicated by later resolutions, (6) having no value because of later changes in program; and (7) for other reasons.
Proposed Public Relations Resolutions to be Rescinded
RES. NO./ORIGIN TITLE (BRIEF) REASON Res. 9 NEC PRE 1947 Printing and Mailing Contract #3---Superseded Res. 9 NEC May 1947 Legion Publication Contracts & Leases #2—Accomplished Res. 63 NEC May 1948 The National Legionnaire and The American #3—Superseded Legion Magazine Res. 71 NEC May 1951 Special citations to Those Responsible for #1—Obsolete Televising the May 3, 1951 Morning Sessions of the National Executive Committee Res. 79 NEC May 1951 Appreciation for Radio Series "If We Must #1—Obsolete Fight" Res. 3 NEC PRE 1955 Contract Between the Clovernook Printing #2—Accomplished House for the Blind and The American Legion Res. 99 NEC May 1955 Motion Picture Film of The American Legion #1—Obsolete Ideals, Etc. Res. 28 NEC May 1956 Appreciation to the Radio Industry #1—Obsolete Res. 1 NEC PRE 1958 The Motion Picture "We Who Serve" and #2—Accomplished Discharge of the Special Film Committee
184 Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 Res. 27 NEC Oct 1961 Authorization to Publish an Up to Date #2—Accomplished "History of The American Legion" Res. 56 NEC May 1961 Research Project for American Legion #1—Obsolete Program Planning Res. 14 NEC May 1963 Royalties and Expenses Re: History of The #2—Accomplished American Legion Res. 18 NEC May 1965 Support the J. Edgar Hoover Foundation and #1—Obsolete Its Administration of the J. Edgar Hoover Library at Freedoms Foundation Valley Forge, Penn. Res. 50 NEC May 1967 Additional Reimbursement for Expenses #1—Accomplished incurred by Author of the Book "The American Legion Story" Res. 14 NEC May 1968 Formally Establish National Commander's #3—Superseded Department Public Relations Award Res. 1 NEC Oct 1969 Tribute to Former President Harry S. #1—Obsolete Truman on his 85th Birthday Res. 2 NEC May 1971 Discontinuance National Commander's #1—Obsolete Department Public Relations Award Res. 45 NEC May 1973 Funding of American Legion National Public #2---Accomplished Relations Program-"Be Counted Again" Res. 23 NEC Oct 1974 Support to the American Freedom Train in #1---Obsolete 1975 and 1976 Res. 2 NEC May 1974 Commendation to Canadian Broadcaster, #1---Obsolete Gordon Sinclair Res. 13 NEC Oct 1976 Commending the National News Media for #1 Obsolete Outstanding Service Rendered the American People through their Coverage of the American Revolutionary Bicentennial Observance Res. 41 NEC Oct 1976 Authorizing a Contract Between The #2 Accomplished American Legion and Robert P. Redden Associates, Inc., Beginning January 1, 1977 Res. 7 NEC May 1976 Armed Forces Chess #1 Obsolete Res. 16 NEC May 1980 Retention of Speech Consultant #1 Obsolete Res. 6 NEC Oct 1982 Purchase of Television Electronic Field #2 Accomplished Production (EFP) System Res. 16 NEC May 1982 Authorization To Execute a Contract with #2 Accomplished Speedy Tape Inc., of Denver, Colorado. For The Audio Taping of National Convention Speakers Res. 9 NEC May 1983 Authorization to Execute a contract with #2 Accomplished Martin Productions, Inc., of Seattle, Washington for Audio Taping of 1983 Commission and Convention Speakers Res. 1 NEC Oct 1984 Authorization to Execute The Renewal #2 Accomplished Clause of a contract with Meyer Communications Corporation for Audio Taping of 1985 and 1986 Commission and National Convention Speakers Res. 3 NEC May 1984 Authorization to Execute A Contract with #2 Accomplished Meyer Communications Corporation, of Denver, Colorado, for Audio Taping 1984, 1985, and 1986 Commission and Convention Speakers Res. 26 NEC May 1992 National Convention Festival Production #1 Obsolete
Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 185 RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: This resolution has the approval of the Public Relations Commission, your Subcommittee on Resolutions, therefore, I move for its adoption. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and the second that resolution 16 be approved. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried. Thank you, Bob. The Chair recognizes Daniel M. Dellinger from Virginia for the report of the Legislative Commission.
Oral Report: Legislative Commission Daniel M. Dellinger, Virginia, Chairman
Thank you, Commander Foster, members of the National Executive Committee. The National Legislative Commission met at national headquarters in Room 314B on May 2nd and 3rd, we were joined by Past National Commander, the Honorable John Brieden, and several members of the NEC liaison committee. We appreciate their attendance and wise counsel. There were no resolutions referred to this commission for consideration. Each of you should have a copy of the commission's written report. Attached to the report is an addendum listing those resolutions with legislative intent approved by the NEC. The Legislative Commission has unanimously recommended this amendment to the Legislative Program per NEC Rule 8-b. During both sessions the commission discussed current congressional developments, and recently passed legislation. Commander Foster, thank you for stopping by the meeting and sharing your comments and observations. Each of you should also have two attachments pertaining to the National Legislative Council. These documents provide an update on the rebuilding of the National Legislative Council for the 112th Congress. The first document called the Council Rebuild Process Timeline is a single sheet. This displays the sequence of steps to be completed and the dates the steps were completed by the responsible party. An empty cell in the chart means the steps have not yet been completed. Of 50 departments, only eight have entirely completed each step, therefore, have a full council delegation which is up and running. The second document is listed as the National Legislative Council 112th Congress. This lists the membership of the council with each Legion department, vice chairman, or liaison/appointee beside the respective member of Congress. More importantly you will note in the last column of the roster, Info Sheet Received. This column indicates whether a council information sheet or info sheet has been received from the nominee. A "Y" in the cell means that one has been returned. As of May 3rd, 13 of the 50 vice chairmen and 214 of the liaison members have not returned their sheet. Therefore, despite having received and processed all departments' lists of nominees, approximately 33 percent of the members of the council have not been appointed. This is detrimental to The American Legion's grassroots efforts around the country and in Congress. Long-term members of the council may ask, "Why should I refill this out?" Well, it needs to be understood though, is that based on resolution, until the info sheet is received from each nominee and reviewed for accuracy, the nominee cannot be appointed by the national commander. Therefore, I rise before you today, asking for your assistance. I ask you when you go back to your departments, to review this list and find those that have not returned these information sheets, and please get them returned. Everyone received this sheet by either email or letter. If for some reason you can't find it, please have them contact the legislative staff in Washington, D.C. I thank you for your assistance in this matter. It's very important.
186 Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 In conclusion, I am pleased to report that the Joint Hearing before the Veterans' Affairs Committees by the newly elected national commander of The American Legion will take place on September 21st, 2011 in Washington, D.C., pending final approval. This will be on a Wednesday, therefore, Legionnaires attending the event will be able to schedule a face-to-face visit with their elected officials. Commander Foster, on behalf of the commission, I would like to thank you for outstanding leadership. Also at this time I would like to take the opportunity to acknowledge Legislative Director Tim Tetz and Assistant Director Jeff Steele for their excellent work. (Applause) Commander, we wish you Godspeed in the remainder of your travels. Mr. Commander, this completes my report.
Advance Report: National Legislative Commission April 8, 2011 Daniel M. Dellinger, Virginia, Chairman
There has been one meeting of the National Legislative Commission since the National Executive Committee last met in October, 2010. Thirteen (13) members of the Commission met on March 21, 2011 at the Renaissance Washington Hotel in Washington, DC. Legislative Commission Chairman Dellinger (VA) chaired the meeting. National Legislative Council Chairman Michael Harris (VA) presented his report on Council activities. The Commission was briefed by David Horne, a former Hill staffer who assisted our organization with preserving the VA Home Loan system when it was threatened by legislation last year. In addition, the Commission also welcomed Helen Tolar, majority staff director of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee. Her remarks were centered on the continuing quest to finalize fiscal year (FY) 2011 appropriations for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Following each speaker's remarks, a question-and-answer session was held. Tim Tetz, Legislative Director, reported on the status of current legislation impacting on issues critical to The American Legion. Major discussion topics included: the constitutional amendment to prohibit the physical desecration of the American flag; the Fiscal Year (FY) 2011 and 2012 budgets for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA); problems with the timely and accurate adjudication of VA disability claims; jobs for veterans in the struggling economy; and, the Disabled Veteran Tax. In addition, the Commission reviewed a list of legislative resolutions – which are still in force – which have been deemed accomplished or obsolete. There was also discussion about a possible revision to Rule 8B, affecting the assignment of resolutions to the legislative agenda.
Recent Congressional Developments
The First Session of the 112th Congress convened on January 5, 2011. Major issues on the agenda for both chambers revolved mainly around final passage of FY 2011 appropriations, as well as deficit reduction. To date, The American Legion has participated in four congressional hearings during the First Session. The American Legion and the Citizens Flag Alliance continue to support a proposed constitutional amendment: "The Congress shall have power to prohibit the physical desecration of the flag of the United States." The American Legion supports passage of the measure and ratification by the state legislatures. On February 14, the Obama Administration released its budget request for the fiscal year (FY) 2012 Federal budget, including VA. The President's overall VA budget request
Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 187 would provide $124.3 billion for health care, benefits, and memorial service to this nation's veterans, $16 billion above the FY 2010 enacted level. This proposal includes $58.8 billion in discretionary funding to include medical programs to provide high- quality health care for veterans and research for conditions and diseases that affect these veterans. It further provides $65.6 billion for mandatory programs, including benefits for veterans and their beneficiaries. There are four major areas of emphasis in this new budget that the President has made an integral part of VA's FY 2012 budget: Prioritizes Specialized Care for Veterans with Psychological and Cognitive Health Needs – The President's Budget includes $6 billion to enhance the VA's ability to provide the best possible specialized care for post-traumatic stress, traumatic brain injury, and other mental health needs. The Budget makes possible collaborative programs between the Department of Defense and VA that target psychological health, research new evidence-based approaches, and increase outreach to veterans. Those programs will increase our ability to care for the psychological and cognitive conditions that will continue to impact our veteran population for many years to come. Effectively Utilizes Estimated Savings and Multi-Year Funding to Manage VA Medical Care – The Administration proposes $52.5 billion in advance appropriations for the VA medical care program in 2013, which enables timely and predictable funding for VA's medical care to prevent our Nation's veterans from being adversely affected by budget delays. Advance appropriations require a multi-year approach to budget planning whereby one year builds off the previous year. For example, estimated savings from management improvements in 2011 and 2012 will be carried forward into the following years to reduce the new appropriations needed in 2012 and 2013. Without the carryover of those resources from 2011 and 2012—currently estimated at $1.1 billion—VA would need a higher level of appropriations in 2012 and 2013. Combats Veteran Homelessness – The President's Budget invests $939 million to continue the expansion of VA services for homeless and at-risk veterans. These funds will combat veteran homelessness through collaborative partnerships with local governments, non-profit organizations, and the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Department of Justice, and the Department of Labor. Begins Implementation of a New Paperless Claims System and Other Initiatives to Boost Efficiency and Responsiveness – The President's Budget provides $183 million for the implementation of a new paperless claims processing system. These funds will allow the VA to move away from its reliance on paper records, thereby improving the speed and efficiency of claims processing while simultaneously enhancing the security of veterans' personal information. Furthermore, the President's Budget reduces spending for construction to focus resources on providing timely, high-quality care and benefits to veterans. The charts below shows VA's discretionary funding programs, with current year (FY 2011) funding totals, the President's proposed FY 2012 budget amounts, and The American Legion's proposed appropriations totals as presented to Congress last September by National Commander Foster. It is also divided into two parts, showing the advance appropriations for the medical care accounts, which are separated from the other non-medical care accounts.
188 Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 VA Medical Discretionary Programs
P.L. 111- P.L. 111- President's FY 2013 American 117 322 FY 2012 Proposed Legion's FY 2010 FY 2011 VA Budget Advance FY 2013 VA VA Proposal Appropriations Request Final Funding Funding Medical Services $34.7 bil. $37.1 $39.5 $41.3 bil. $38.1 bil. bil. bil. Medical Support $4.9 bil. $5.3 bil. $5.4 bil. $5.7 bil. $5.3 bil. & Compliance
Medical Facilities $4.8 bil. $5.7 bil. $5.4 bil. $5.4 bil. $6.2 bil. Medical/Prosthetic $510 $581 $581 $509 mil. $600 Research mil. mil. mil. mil.
Total Medical Care $44.9 $48.7 $50.8bil. $52.9 bil. $50.2 bil. bil. bil.
VA Non-Medical Discretionary Programs
P.L. 111-117 P.L. 111-322 President's American FY 2010 VA FY 2011 FY 2012 VA Legion's Final VA Funding Budget FY 2012 Funding Proposal Request
Major Construction $1.2 bil. $1.2 bil. $590 mil. $1.2 bil. Minor Construction $703 mil. $703 mil. $550 mil. $800 mil. State Veterans' Homes $100 mil. $100 mil. $85 mil. $100 mil. Construction Grants
State Veterans' $46 mil. $46 mil. $46 mil. $60 mil. Cemeteries Construction Grants General Operating $2.1 bil. $2.5 bil. $2.5 bil. $2.6 bil. Expenses Information $3.3 bil. $3.3 bil. $3.2 bil. $3.5 bil. Technology National Cemetery $250 mil. $250 mil. $251 mil. $260 mil. System
On February 17 and March 2, The American Legion testified before the House and Senate Veterans' Affairs committees respectively, giving its views on VA's FY 2012 budget request. The testimony also re-emphasized the VA budget request presented by National Commander Foster last September. The American Legion will continue to monitor the FY 2012 budget process. A more substantive report on congressional developments will be presented by the Legislative Commission at the May 4-5, 2011 meetings of the National Executive Committee.
Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 189 Report: National Legislative Commission May 4-5, 2011 Daniel M. Dellinger, Virginia, Chairman
The National Legislative Commission met in the National Headquarters Building in Indianapolis, Indiana on May 2-3, 2011. Ten (10) members of the National Legislative Commission, four (4) members of the National Executive Committee Liaison Committee, and five (5) guests were in attendance.
National Legislative Council Report The Chairman's report on the National Legislative Council (NLC) was reviewed and discussed. The report provided an update on the rebuilding of the NLC for the 112th Congress and was accompanied by two attachments, being the latest versions of the "Council Rebuild Process Timeline" and the NLC roster. The first attachment, the "Council Rebuild Process Timeline," displayed the sequence of steps to be completed and the dates the steps were completed by the responsible party. An empty cell in the chart means the step is not yet complete. Of the 50 departments only 8 have entirely completed each step and, therefore, have a full Council delegation up and running. The second attachment was a roster listing the membership of the NLC with each Legion department vice chairman (VC) or liaison nominee/appointee (M) beside their respective Member of Congress (MoC), if applicable. The last column of the roster entitled "Info Sheet received" indicates whether a NLC Information Sheet (Info Sheet) has been received from the nominee. A "Y" in the cell means one has been returned. As of May 3, 13 of the 50 vice chairman and 214 of the liaison nominees have not returned an Info Sheet. Based on resolution and past practice, until an Info Sheet is received from each nominee and reviewed to determine if the qualifications are met, the nominee has not been appointed by the Commander. Therefore, despite having received and processed all departments' list of nominees, almost half of the council has not been appointed. This is detrimental to The American Legion's grass-root efforts around the country and on Capitol Hill. Steps undertaken so far to address this issue are, firstly, during the Washington Conference lists of nominees who had yet to return an Info Sheet were delivered to approximately 30 percent of the departments. Some responded admirably, others hardly at all. Secondly, each vice chairman, adjutant, and NECman within departments still incomplete is being contacted with requests for assistance in obtaining the Info Sheets. With regard to the quality of the nominees, satisfaction is variable. One important criterion is the ability to communicate through email because this method has become the predominant one used to communicate with Capitol Hill for reasons of speed, security, and cost. Use of email by members of the Council has increased over the last decade and most now use it, but there are still holdouts, especially among the older members. Although consideration was given to making this an absolute requirement, this was decided against. To improve the general quality of nominees across all departments will require a longer term process of education which will most likely entail training within the departments to outline expectations of nominees, duties of appointees, and ongoing relationship development with each NLC member. Work on a case by case basis in two departments has been necessary when actions taken by liaisons were found to be contrary to the task and role of a council member. Yet only through relationship building and a thorough understanding of the council can the departments better understand the importance and necessity for change and improvement.
190 Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 One such example that has dramatically turned positive recently has been California where a new vice chairman and due diligence has totally transformed this group.
Review of Resolutions First, the Commission reviewed a resolution entitled Rescinding of National Legislative Program Non-Legislative Policy Resolutions. The resolution was a result of a thorough review of American Legion resolutions directing action by the Legislative Commission. Since the resolutions were not related to a specific Congress, they had not expired as legislative resolutions per NEC Rule 8b. The Commission unanimously approved the resolution and recommended forwarding it to the National Executive Committee for action. Second, the Commission reviewed resolutions passed by the National Convention and Fall NEC pursuant to NEC Rule 8b. The unanimous conclusion of that deliberation is contained within Addendum I of this report. Following the business actions of the meeting, the Commission received in-depth briefings from the Legislative Division's professional staff on various congressional actions since the Commission's last meeting. The remainder of this report provides a summary of congressional actions since the National Convention on issues of particular concern to The American Legion. The report is arranged by program areas.
Recent Congressional Developments The First Session of the 112th Congress convened on January 3, 2011. Major issues on the agenda for both chambers include the Global War on Terrorism, the economic recession and finishing up the fiscal year (FY) 2011 federal appropriations. To date, The American Legion has participated in four congressional hearings during the First Session, with several more scheduled to occur during the NEC meetings. On February 14, the Obama Administration released its budget request for the fiscal year (FY) 2012 Federal budget, including VA. The President's overall VA budget request would provide $124.3 billion for health care, benefits, and memorial service to this nation's veterans, $16 billion above the FY 2010 enacted level. This proposal includes $58.8 billion in discretionary funding to include medical programs to provide high- quality health care for veterans and research for conditions and diseases that affect these veterans. It further provides $65.6 billion for mandatory programs, including benefits for veterans and their beneficiaries. There are four major areas of emphasis in this new budget that the President has made an integral part of VA's FY 2012 budget: Prioritizes Specialized Care for Veterans with Psychological and Cognitive Health Needs – The President's Budget includes $6 billion to enhance the VA's ability to provide the best possible specialized care for post-traumatic stress, traumatic brain injury, and other mental health needs. The Budget makes possible collaborative programs between the Department of Defense and VA that target psychological health, research new evidence-based approaches, and increase outreach to veterans. Those programs will increase our ability to care for the psychological and cognitive conditions that will continue to impact our veteran population for many years to come. Effectively Utilizes Estimated Savings and Multi-Year Funding to Manage VA Medical Care – The Administration proposes $52.5 billion in advance appropriations for the VA medical care program in 2013, which enables timely and predictable funding for VA's medical care to prevent our Nation's veterans from being adversely affected by budget delays. Advance appropriations require a multi-year approach to budget planning whereby one year builds off the previous year. For example, estimated savings from management improvements in 2011 and 2012 will be carried forward into the following years to reduce the new appropriations needed in 2012 and 2013. Without the carryover
Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 191 of those resources from 2011 and 2012 – currently estimated at $1.1 billion—VA would need a higher level of appropriations in 2012 and 2013. Combats Veteran Homelessness – The President's Budget invests $939 million to continue the expansion of VA services for homeless and at-risk veterans. These funds will combat veteran homelessness through collaborative partnerships with local governments, non-profit organizations, and the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Department of Justice, and the Department of Labor. Begins Implementation of a New Paperless Claims System and Other Initiatives to Boost Efficiency and Responsiveness – The President's Budget provides $183 million for the implementation of a new paperless claims processing system. These funds will allow the VA to move away from its reliance on paper records, thereby improving the speed and efficiency of claims processing while simultaneously enhancing the security of veterans' personal information. Furthermore, the President's Budget reduces spending for construction to focus resources on providing timely, high-quality care and benefits to veterans. The charts below show VA's discretionary funding programs, with current year (FY 2011) funding totals, the President's proposed FY 2012 budget, and The American Legion's proposed appropriations totals as presented to Congress last September by National Commander Foster. It is also divided into two parts, showing the advance appropriations for the medical care accounts, which are separated from the other non- medical care accounts.
VA Medical Discretionary Programs P.L. 111- P.L. 111- President's FY 2013 American 117 322 FY 2012 Proposed Legion's FY 2010 FY 2011 VA Budget Advance FY 2013 VA VA Proposal Appropriations Request Final Funding Funding Medical Services $34.7 bil. $37.1 bil. $39.6 bil. $41.3 bil. $38.1 bil. Medical Support $4.9 bil. $5.3 bil. $5.5 bil. $5.7 bil. $5.3 bil. & Compliance
Medical Facilities $4.8 bil. $5.7 bil. $5.4 bil. $5.4 bil. $6.2 bil. Medical/Prosthetic $510 mil. $581 mil. $581 mil. $509 mil. $600 mil. Research
Total Medical Care $44.9 bil. $48.6 bil. $51.0 bil. $52.9 bil. $50.2 bil.
192 Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 VA Non-Medical Discretionary Programs
P.L. 111-117 P.L. 112-10 President's American FY 2010 VA FY 2011 FY 2012 VA Legion's Final VA Funding Budget FY 2012 Funding Proposal Request
Major Construction $1.2 bil. $1.1 bil. $590 mil. $1.2 bil. Minor Construction $703 mil. $468 mil. $550 mil. $800 mil. State Veterans' Homes $100 mil. $85 mil. $85 mil. $100 mil. Construction Grants
State Veterans' $46 mil. $46 mil. $46 mil. $60 mil. Cemeteries Construction Grants General Operating $2.1 bil. $2.5 bil. $2.5 bil. $2.6 bil. Expenses Information $3.3 bil. $3.0 bil. $3.2 bil. $3.5 bil. Technology National Cemetery $250 mil. $251 mil. $251 mil. $260 mil. System
On February 17 and March 2, The American Legion testified before the House and Senate Veterans' Affairs committees respectively, giving its views on VA's FY 2012 budget request. The testimony re-emphasized the VA budget request presented by National Commander Foster last September. The American Legion will continue to monitor the FY 2012 budget process.
Americanism On January 7, 2011 Representative Emerson (MO) introduced House Joint Resolution (H.J. Res.) 13, a flag protection constitutional amendment for the 112th Congress. It has been assigned to the House Judiciary Committee. The measure now has 44 cosponsors. It is hoped that a Senate companion measure will be introduced in the near future. The American Legion will continue to seek passage of a constitutional amendment to protect the American flag because it is the right thing to do. Let "We the People" decide.
Children & Youth The President's proposed FY 2012 budget continues to fund important Department of Justice (DOJ) programs which have been supported by The American Legion for many years. Proposed funding for DOJ programs supported by our organization include: $8.0 billion for the FBI, a slight increase over FY 2011 funding; $2 billion for the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), an amount similar to the current fiscal year; $1.2 billion for the U.S. Marshals Service, $114 million more than this year; $1.2 billion for state and local law enforcement assistance grants, a decrease of $441 million from current funding amounts; $1.1 billion for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), a $33 million increase over FY 2011 amounts; and, $280 million for the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) , a decrease of $157 million over the current year's funding amounts. The OJJDP program has been enthusiastically supported The American Legion since its creation in 1974.
Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 193 These figures are, by no means, final. The FY 2012 budget/appropriations process is just beginning.
Economics On October 12, 2010 the President signed P.L. 111-269, the "Indian Veterans Housing Opportunity Act," legislation that will ensure that disabled Native American veterans, their families and their survivors are not denied support due to their military service through the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (P.L. 104-330). When that law was enacted in 1996, it sought to allow tribal communities to more easily access housing grants by providing support to families who make less than 80 percent of the median income of their area. While the law has helped many Native American veterans, due to an oversight it counts veterans' disability compensation or survivor benefits payments as income. As a result, some former service members who receive those benefits are made ineligible for badly-needed housing assistance. P.L. 111-269 fixes this flaw by specifically excluding veterans' benefits from the definition of income, finally correcting a problem that has disadvantaged thousands of Native American veterans and their families. The Obama Administration's budget plan for FY 2012 also contains funding for the Department of Labor (DOL). The measure funds veterans' programs under the Assistant Secretary of Labor for Veterans Employment and Training (ASVET). Funding for ASVET programs has become even more critical in recent years. In addition to the large numbers of former service members leaving the armed forces, the current economic situation has contributed to unacceptably high levels of unemployment for veterans of the Gulf War period. The chart below outlines funding for ASVET accounts appropriated for FY 2011 and proposed funding levels for FY 2012. Again, it should be stressed that these are only preliminary figures, not the final funding for next fiscal year.
P.L. 112-8 President's Budget, VETS Programs FY 2009 FY 2012 State Administration Grants $165.4 million $165.7 million Transition Assistance Program $7 million $8.7 million Federal Administration $35.3 million $35.3 million National Veterans Training Institute $2.4 million $2.4 million (NVTI) Homeless Veterans Programs $36.3 million $39.3 million Veterans' Workforce Investment $9.6 million $9.6 million Programs Totals $256 million $261 million
Foreign Relations Appropriations for the Department of State and Foreign Operations programs for FY 2011 were contained in a succession of seven continuing resolutions (CRs) passed by Congress between September of last year and April of this year. These measures provided $51.4 billion in total funding. President Obama's FY 2012 budget request for State and Foreign Operations totals $47 billion.
National Security On January 4, 2011 President Obama signed P.L. 111-377, the "Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Improvements Act of 2010." The bill makes changes to education
194 Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 benefits for veterans who served after Sept. 11, 2001, including setting the amount of financial aid for individuals enrolled at a public university or college to meet in-state tuition and fees. The Senate passed the bill on December 13, while the House passed the measure on December 16 by vote of 409-3. The measure, sponsored by Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee Chairman Daniel Akaka (HI), expands the post-Sept. 11 GI Bill (P.L. 110-252) to include tuition reimbursements for vocational and trade schools. The current benefits only apply to four- year institutions of higher learning; the expansion provides opportunities for veterans who seek careers in skilled trades following their discharge from the armed forces. In addition, P.L. 111-377 expands eligibility for the Post 9-11 GI Bill to include full- time service in the National Guard or, when authorized by the President or DOD Secretary, for responding to a national emergency declared by the President and supported by federal funds. The law makes this change retroactive to August 1, 2009. The final bill contained an amendment that requires that certain benefits not be paid out before Oct. 1, 2011 — the beginning of fiscal year 2012. Similarly, a provision that would allow payment for textbooks and similar incidental educational expenses would not take effect until FY 2012. The bill also reduced some benefit levels. The maximum amount allowable for tuition and fees, for instance, would decrease to $17,500 from $20,000. The Congressional Budget Office estimated that Chairman Akaka's original measure, as approved by the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee, would have added more than $2 billion to the deficit over 10 years. The amended version passed by Congress would decrease the deficit by $734 million over the same period. Congress passes annual legislation authorizing spending levels for DOD programs, and usually includes a number of policy statements. On January 7, 2011 the President signed into law P.L. 111-383, the FY 2011 National Defense Authorization Act. Overall, the measure authorizes $725 billion for DOD programs for the fiscal year. Some of the major provisions include: • $158.7 billion for overseas contingency operations in Afghanistan; • Strengthening current law to keep dangerous detainees in Guantanamo from being released; • A 1.4 percent pay raise for service members; • Allowing service members to provide TRICARE benefits to their adult children up to age 26; • Funding to help train security forces in Afghanistan and Yemen, the latter nation plays a strategic role in the fight against terrorists; • Creating additional positions for mental health care providers to treat service members with PTSD and TBI; • Extends a number of special pays and bonuses for service members; • Continuing increased end strengths for the Army and Navy to meet the demands of current combat operations; • Providing $50 million in impact aid funding to modernize schools for our service members' children; • Funding to repair military equipment used in Afghanistan; • Funding to clean up high-risk contaminated sites at former military bases; • Funding to build military hospitals and housing for service members and their families, which will also provide an economic boost in areas where the construction occurs; • Funding for critical military initiatives, including suicide prevention, sexual harassment and sexual assault prevention, and soldier and family support programs;
Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 195 • Creating a counter-improvised explosive device (IED) database and enhances efforts to develop new, lightweight body armor; • Authorizing $3.4 billion for Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles, as well as $3.5 billion for the Joint Improvised Explosive Device Defeat Organization (JIEDDO); • Continuing efforts to reverse the decline of the Navy, setting the course for a 300‐plus ship Navy; • Authorizing $7.2 billion for restoring and replacing National Guard and Reserve military equipment; and • Strengthening the development of the Aegis ballistic missile defense.
Under the President's FY 2012 budget, the Department of Defense (DoD) discretionary programs would be funded at $553 billion, an increase of $22.2 billion over the FY 2010 enacted amounts. An additional $117.6 billion would be assigned to the Overseas Contingency Operations account – the military actions in Afghanistan and Iraq. Some of the major funding proposals include: • $142.8 billion for Military Personnel, which includes pay and allowance, training, bonuses and incentive pays, and health and retirement benefits; • $204.4 billion for Operations and Maintenance, which provides for operating and maintaining the armed forces, This account also includes $8.3 billion to support military families and their quality of life needs; • $113 billion for Procurement accounts, allowing DOD to provide the troops with the best weapons possible; and, • $75.3 billion for Research, Development, Testing and Evaluation, which aims to keep U.S. armed forces as up-to-date and modernized as is practicable.
The President's FY 2012 budget also contains a proposal to raise fees for TRICARE, the medical program used by former service members, their dependents, and some members of the Reserve component. However, DOD Secretary Robert Gates has said that the burgeoning costs of TRICARE will soon become unsustainable. The President's budget proposal seeks to raise annual enrollment fees in FY 2012; then, beginning in 2013, TRICARE fees would increase at a rate equal to the rate of medical inflation, currently estimated at about 6 percent per year. The President's FY 2012 budget for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) would provide $43.2 billion in discretionary spending for DHS programs, an increase of $700 million above FY 2010 actual funding. Some of the key provisions of the budget proposal include: • $10.5 billion for the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection, $400 million above the FY 2010 funding levels; • $10.1 billion for the U.S. Coast Guard, about $200 million more than this fiscal year; • $6.7 billion for the Transportation Security Administration – including other support functions – $199 million over the current year's spending amounts; • $5.5 billion for the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, which is $155 million above FY 2011 levels; • $3.8 billion in grants for state and local "first responders" which is nearly $300 million less than the amount appropriated this year; • $1.7 billion for the U.S. Secret Service, $143 million above this year's levels; • $991 million for the Federal Air Marshals, an increase of $130 million from FY 2011; and
196 Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 • $528 billion for border security along the U.S.-Mexico border (included under the "Customs and Border Protection" account), $272 million less than last year.
Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation FY 2011 funding for VA, military construction programs and related agencies was included in P.L. 112-10, the omnibus appropriations bill signed by the President on April 15. With the enactment of this measure, funding for the remainder of this fiscal year was completed. The chart below presents the major discretionary funding categories of VA's budget, showing the final FY 2011 funding totals for P.L. 112-10, the President's proposed budget for FY 2012, and The American Legion's FY 2012 budget proposal as presented in testimony before the House and Senate Veterans' Affairs committees by National Commander Foster in September, 2010.
P. L. 112-10 President's American VA Discretionary FY 2011 Final Proposed Legion's Programs VA Funding FY 2012 FY 2012 VA Budget Request Medical Services $37.1 billion $39.6 billion $38.1 billion Medical Support and $5.3 billion $5.5 billion $5.3 billion Compliance Medical Facilities $5.7 billion $5.4 billion $6.2 billion Medical and Prosthetic $581 million $509 million $600 million Research Total Medical Care $48.6 billion $51.0 million $50.2 billion
Information Technology $3.0 billion $3.2 billion $3.5 billion General Operating $2.5 billion $2.5 billion $2.6 billion Expenses Natl. Cemetery $250 million $251 million $260 million Administration Major Construction $1.1 billion $590 million $1.2 billion Minor Construction $468 million $550 million $800 million State Homes Construction $85 million $85 million $100 million Grants State Cemeteries $46 million $46 million $60 million Construction Grants
Funding in P.L. 112-10 for related agencies monitored by The American Legion include: • $64 million for the American Battle Monuments Commission; • $27.6 million for the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans' Claims; • $45 million for operations and maintenance at Arlington National Cemetery; and, • $71 million for operations, maintenance and construction at the Armed Forces Retirement Home. This concludes The American Legion National Legislative Commission's Report to the National Executive Committee.
Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 197 Addendum I National Legislative Commission May 4-5, 2011
In compliance with Rule 8-b of the National Executive Committee, the resolutions listed below have legislative intent and are submitted for approval.
Americanism Res. No. 29: (2010 Fall NEC) Flag Code Amendment
Economics Res. No. 17: (2010 Fall NEC) Support Funding for Additional Housing for Homeless Veterans with Families Res. No. 18: (2010 Fall NEC) Reauthorize and Fund Veterans Affairs Small Business Loan Program Res. No. 19: (2010 Fall NEC) Support the Rollover of IRA Accounts without Penalty or Tax Liability of a Permanent and Total 100% Service Disabled Veteran with individual Unemployability Res. No. 21: (2010 Fall NEC) Support and Strengthen the Service Members Civil Relief Act (SCRA) Res. No. 30: (2011 Spring NEC) Support a National Employment Website for Veterans
Foreign Relations Res. No. 18: (2011 Spring NEC) POW/MIA Accounting Policies
National Security Res. No. 20: (2011 Spring NEC) Flexible Savings Accounts Res. No. 21: (2011 Spring NEC) Uniform Standards for Combat Military Occupational Studies Res. No. 22: (2011 Spring NEC) Oppose Widow's Tax Res. No. 23: (2011 Spring NEC) Military Readiness Res. No. 23: (2010 Fall NEC) Immigration Reform to Enhance National Security Res. No. 24: (2011 Spring NEC) The American Legion Position on Tricare Res. No. 25: (2011 Spring NEC) Rare Earth Elements Res. No. 25: (2010 Fall NEC) Extend Selective Service Program to Women Age 18-25 Res. No. 26: (2011 Spring NEC) Reserves and National Guard Retirement Benefit Fairness Res. No. 26: (2010 Fall NEC) National Security Principles Res. No. 27: (2010 Fall NEC) Establish a Strategic Plan for Internal Security within the United States Res. No. 31: (2010 Fall NEC) Military Chaplains and Physicians Res. No. 140: (2010 Natl Conv) Support for the Selective Service Registration Program Res. No. 144: (2010 Natl Conv) Oppose Tricare Fee Increases
Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Res. No. 12: (2010 Fall NEC) Increase Income Threshold of Veterans Married to Another Veteran Res. No. 35: (2011 Spring NEC) The American Legion Position on the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Strategic Capital Investment Planning (SCIP) Program
198 Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: Mr. Commander, motion to receive and file the report of the Legislative Commission with the exception of one resolution and one addendum. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion to receive and file the Legislative Commission's report. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Resolution No. 17: Rescinding Of National Legislative Program Non-Legislative Policy Resolutions Origin: Legislative Commission Submitted by: Legislative Commission WHEREAS, In accordance with resolutions of the 1959 and 1960 National Convention, the National Executive Committee, through its Program Study Committee, has caused to be made a review of all non-legislative policy resolutions, and such action has been taken in further conference with the action of the 1936 National Convention which established policy on the life of such resolutions; and WHEREAS, The National Legislative Commission has concluded an extensive review of National Executive Committee and National Convention resolutions relating to the National Legislative Program from the year 1919 through 2010; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4-5, 2011, That the following resolutions be and they are being rescinded by reason for (1) being obsolete, (2) accomplishment of purpose, (3) being superseded by later resolutions, (4) being in conflict with later resolutions, (5) being duplicated by later resolutions, (6) having no value because of later changes in program; and (7) for other reasons.
Proposed Legislative Resolutions to be Rescinded
RES. NO. / ORIGIN TITLE (BRIEF) REASON 78 NC Sept. 1920 This Conventions Approve the Legislation #1 – Obsolete Adopted at the Last Convention When Not In Conflict with Resolutions Adopted by This Convention 164 NC Sept. 1920 The National Emblem Division Directed #3 – Superseded Massachusetts Statute Dealing with the Improper Display of American Legion Emblems And Urge All State Departments to Endeavor to Secure Similar Legislation in their States 142 NC Nov. 1921 Support of the Progress of the National #1 – Obsolete Legislative Committee 153 NC Nov. 1921 Approve the Work of the National #1 – Obsolete Legislative Committee and Recommend that This Committee Continue its Efforts to Secure Favorable Action Upon Certain Bills Still Pending In the Senate and in the House Which Were Recommended at the Previous Convention 275 NC Oct. 1922 Use and Protection of the Legion Emblem #3 – Superseded 456 NC Oct. 1923 Confidence in National Legislative Committee #1 – Obsolete 465 NC Oct. 1923 National Legislative Committee #1 – Obsolete 457 NC Sept. 1924 "Stars and Stripes" Fund #1 – Obsolete 523 NC Oct. 1925 John Thomas Taylor #1 – Obsolete 524 NC Oct. 1925 National Legislative Committee #1 – Obsolete 258 NC Oct. 1927 Sergeants on Detached Enlisted Men's List #1 – Obsolete Now in Regular Army (Bill U. 5411) 518 NC Oct. 1927 National Legislative Committee #1 – Obsolete
Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 199 323 NC Oct. 1928 Eligibility for Superintendent #1 – Obsolete 495 NC Oct. 1928 Re-Approve Report of Standing Legislative #1 – Obsolete Committee 4 NC Sept. 1931 Civilian Marksmanship Program of #1 – Obsolete American Legion 5 NC Sept. 1931 Commend John Thomas Taylor and his #1 – Obsolete Wash. D.C. Office 468 NC Sept. 1936 Approve H.R. 35 and H.R. 36 of 1st Session #1 -- Obsolete 74th Congress 9 NC Sept. 1937 Legislative Committee Program to Include #2 – Accomplished Puerto Rico 27 NC Sept. 1943 Commendation Frank Sullivan, National #1 – Obsolete Legislative Program 80 NC Sept. 1943 Foreclosure Sanctions Against Members of #1 -- Obsolete Our Armed Forces 437 NC Sept. 1943 Bills Relating to WWII Veterans be #1 – Obsolete Referred to Committee on World War Veterans Legislation 585 NC Sept. 1943 Only Two Delegates from One Delegation #3 – Superseded Be Permitted to Speak on Each Side of the Subject 25 NEC May 1944 Endorse Austin-Wadsworth Bill #1 – Obsolete 14 NEC Nov. 1946 Amend S. 907 and H.R. 3571 #1 – Obsolete 101 NEC June 1946 Amendments to National Service Life #1 – Obsolete Insurance Act 103 NEC June 1946 Approval of H.R. 6340 #1 – Obsolete 755 NC Oct. 1946 Support Wyatt Housing Program #1 – Obsolete 7 NEC May 1948 Mustering Out Pay #1 – Obsolete 34 NEC Nov. 1948 Clarification of Convention Mandates #2 – Accomplished 374 NC Oct. 1948 Veterans' Organizations in Alaska be #1 – Obsolete Allowed to Meet in Government Buildings 59 NEC Nov. 1949 Employment of John Thomas Taylor #2 – Accomplished 3 NC Oct. 1950 Continue Contract w/ John Thomas Taylor #2 – Accomplished 598 NC Oct. 1951 William Randolph Hearst Memorial #1 -- Obsolete Hospital 646 NC Oct. 1951 Protection of Local and Domestic #1 – Obsolete Affairs from Regulation by International Treaties 575 NC Aug. 1952 Appreciation to John Thomas Taylor for #2 – Accomplished Magnificent Accomplishments of Operation Victory and Recommend Continuance of Campaign 51 NEC April 1953 Deferment of Fathers in Selective Service #1 – Obsolete 148 NC Sept. 1953 Assumption by the Military of the #1 -- Obsolete Right to Invade Civil Rights of our Citizens be Resisted 580 NC Sept. 1953 Continued Interest in the Hoover #2 – Accomplished Commission Program 4 NEC May 1954 Statute of Limitations Applicable to #1 – Obsolete Treason, etc. be Extended to 15 Years 168 NC Sept. 1954 Judge Advocate to Assist in the Toth Case to #2 – Accomplished the End that Military Court Martial Shall Not Have Jurisdiction Over Those Honorably Discharged 13 NEC May 1955 Extend Time Limitation for Eligibility #1 – Obsolete Of World War II Veterans to Benefits Of VA Home Loan Guarantee Program 517 NC Sept. 1956 Congressman Teague of Texas Retract #1 -- Obsolete
200 Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 His Unwarranted Statements About The American Legion 12 NC Sept. 1957 Oppose H. Res. 159 Which Would Deny #1 – Obsolete Veteran Legislation Being Presented Directly on Floor of Congress for Action 406 NC Sept. 1957 Legion Members Urged to Contact #1 – Obsolete Senators and Congressmen 457 NC Sept. 1957 1957-58 as "Veterans' Legislation Year" #1 -- Obsolete 19 NEC Nov. 1960 Adoption of The American Legion's #3 – Superseded Legislative Program for 1961 2 NEC May 1961 National Legislative Bulletin of The #1 – Obsolete American Legion 1 NC Aug. 1967 National Legislative Bulletin #1 – Obsolete 27 NEC May 1967 National Legislative Bulletin of The #1 – Obsolete American Legion 433 NC Aug. 1972 Recognition and Support of National #3 – Superseded Legislative Program of The American Legion 42 NEC Oct. 1976 Appreciation to Charles E. Mattingly for his #2 – Accomplished Years of Service to the National Legislative Commission 44 NEC May 1978 Commendation to Senators Who Opposed #2 – Accomplished Ratification of Panama Canal Treaties 28 NEC Oct. 1982 Encourage Timely Nomination of a Veterans #2 – Accomplished Administration Administrator to Replace The Honorable Robert Nimmo
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN HEDRICK: Commander, I move that this resolution be approved without being read. This has the approval of the National Legislative Commission, your Subcommittee on Resolutions. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and the second to approve resolution number 17. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried. RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN HEDRICK: Attached to this report is an addendum. It is in compliance with Rule 8-b of the National Executive Committee I move that the resolutions with legislative intent of The American Legion, become the intent of the National Executive Committee for the 112th Congress. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and the second that Addendum 8-b become the action of the NEC. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Thank you, Dan. Appreciate it. At this time we will have confirmation of interim appointments; confirmation of cancellation of posts and/or squadron charters, and confirmation of dates of future meetings. RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN HEDRICK: Mr. Commander, may I address the national adjutant? NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You may. RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN HEDRICK: Mr. Adjutant, do you certify that the list of interim appointments is a true and correct list? NATIONAL ADJUTANT WHEELER: I so certify. RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN HEDRICK: Mr. Commander, I move that the list be approved without being read. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and the second for the confirmation of interim appointments to be approved without being read. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 201 Interim Appointments National Executive Committee Meeting Indianapolis, Indiana May 4-5, 2011
Dennis Woeltje (Missouri), Americanism Council, Vice Chairman (Replaces Lynn Dorrell—resigned) E. Michael Stelacio (Pennsylvania), Americanism Council, Vice Chairman (For purpose of a call-in only) Lynn Dorrell (Missouri), Commission on Children & Youth, 2011 General Member (Replaces Kenneth C. Kieffer—resigned) Paul E. Dillard (Texas), Commission on Children & Youth, 2012 Member (Replaces James E. Prendergast--resigned) David D. Heath (Indiana), Distinguished Guests Committee, Vice Chairman (Replaces Gary L. Danekas—resigned) Joseph A. Cocco, Jr. (Pennsylvania), Distinguished Guests Committee, Vice Chairman (Replaces Louise Canavan—declined appointment) Charles R. Towers (Massachusetts), Foreign Relations Council, Vice Chairman (Replaces Robert Baranowski—resigned) James R. "Woody" Hogan (Pennsylvania), Foreign Relations Council, Vice Chairman (For purpose of a call-in only) Robert Baranowski (Massachusetts), Constitution & By-Laws Committee, 2011 Member (Replaces Joseph M. Steen—deceased) Thomas E. Parrish (Mississippi), Law and Order Committee, 2013 Member (Replaces Henry L. Trest—deceased) Danny L. Laspe (Maryland), National & Homeland Security Council, Vice Chairman (Replaces Orlyn C. Oestereich—deceased) William T. Yarnell (Pennsylvania), National & Homeland Security Council, Vice Chairman (For purpose of a call-in only) David L. Capps (Montana), Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Commission, 2011 General Member (Replaces Lori Perkio—resigned) Joseph Schaefer (Texas), Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Commission, 2011 General Member (Replaces John B. McKinney—deceased) James E. Fialkowski (Wisconsin), Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Commission, 2011 General Member (Replaces Thomas A. Ludka—resigned)
NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Confirmation of cancellation of posts and/or squadron charters. RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN HEDRICK: Mr. Commander, may I again address the national adjutant? NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You may. RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN HEDRICK: Mr. Adjutant, do you certify the list of post cancellations and squadron charters is a true and correct list and everything has been done to try to revitalize them? NATIONAL ADJUTANT WHEELER: I so certify. RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN HEDRICK: Mr. Commander, I move that the list be approved without being read. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and the second for the list of post cancellations and squadron charters to be approved without being read. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried.
202 Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 Post Charters of The American Legion Presented to the National Executive Committee for Cancellation May 5, 2011
On October 14, 2010, at the Fall Meeting in Indianapolis, Indiana the National Executive Committee approved the cancellation of twenty-two (22) Posts. The research done on each Post prior to any recommendation made as an attempt to see whether these Posts could be revitalized is based on the following criteria: Community Size Veteran Population One Hundred Twenty-Four (124) Posts have been submitted for cancellation consideration during the 2011 Spring NEC Meeting in Indianapolis, IN. One Hundred Twenty-Two (122) Posts are recommended for cancellation. It is recommended that the following one hundred twenty-two (122) Posts be cancelled:
Department Post Name Location #
ALABAMA 14 Barbour County Clayton 35 Ensley Ensley- Birmingham 36 John H. Wills Auburn 37 Boldens-Crabtree Huntsville 54 Joseph Sellers Georgiana 55 John D. Bruner Ashford 58 Wiley L. Horton Courtland 66 Akron Akron 87 Fyfee Fyffe 102 North Jefferson North Birmingham 108 Slocomb Slocomb 146 Collinsville Collinsville 148 McKinney-Batchelor Ariton 182 Orange Beach Orange Beach 190 Midway Billingsley 192 Thomas L. Smiley Birmingham 203 Estill Tidwell Lynn 247 Kennedy Kennedy 269 Midfield Midfield 272 Capt. Clifford Alexander, Jr. Piedmont 300 Hale County Greensboro 302 Dubose-Tatum Mobile 303 Colbert County Sheffield 304 J. Powell Florala 305 Moody-Hamilton Russellville 313 Thomas-Davis-Hobby-McLeod Ozark 317 Kid Franklin Hope Hull 335 Crandall-Johnson Fairhope 350 Sandtown Montgomery 420 Olden Johnson, Sr. Goodwater
Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 203 444 Bangor Hayden 1965 Selma Selma
ILLINOIS 10 Winnetka Winnetka
INDIANA 352 Lexington Nabb 401 Williamson-Smiley Redkey 427 Robert Turner New Ross 473 Mount-Wilson Little York
KANSAS 56 Parsons Parsons 108 McConnell Wichita 120 Luther Green, Jr. Parsons 134 Edwin O. Ricord Caldwell 261 Lupton-Plummer Cimarron 378 Thomas P. Tidball Collyer 418 Northeast Wichita Wichita
KENTUCKY 19 Daniel Boone Winchester 44 Critten H. Gentry Roxana 51 Spencer Taylorsville 53 Booneville Booneville 70 Norman-Barnes Covington 84 Lee County Beattyville 98 Robert D. Johnson Fort Thomas 108 West Hardin County Stephensburg 128 Perry Hazard 129 Floyd Prestonsburg 131 Knott County Garner 150 Roy M. Cain Salyersville 162 Meade Brandenburg 166 Charles L. Henderson Covington 204 Tyler Banks Winchester 252 McKinney-Moore Middlesboro
LOUISIANA 115 Triplett-Joseph-Courville Melville 293 Dovic-Theriot Catahoula Lake
MARYLAND 51 Everhart Middletown 92 James P. Love Lonaconing 165 Robert H. Brooks Baltimore
MASSACHUSETTS 38 Stanley Hill Lexington 44 Roxbury Roxbury 53 North End Boston 56 James E. Welch Boston 85 Ensign John J. O'Connell South Boston 105 Edward McSweeney Boston 167 West Roxbury West Roxbury 175 Albert T. Wood Longmeadow 196 William L. Harris Boston 250 William F. Sinclair Boston
204 Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 264 Bessie P. Edwards Boston 269 General Casimir Pulaski Boston 270 Lt. A. Vernon Macaulay Boston 278 George F. Keenan Boston 281 Crosscup-Pishon Boston 299 Alexander Graham Bell Boston 305 Boston Newspapermens Boston 316 Joyce Kilmer West Roxbury 322 Martell-Munro Boston 332 Halifax Halifax 362 Deane-Brown Bernardston 384 James T. Gillooly Boston 400 Louis P. Rivard Carlisle 404 George L. Thorng South Barre (to merge with Barre Post 2) 418 Edward Pease Wilbraham 422 Edward L. Attleton Holland 458 Readville Memorial Readville
MICHIGAN 214 John C. Carter Detroit 307 Armenian Vartan Detroit 552 Weatherford-Vander-Hoeven Detroit (to merge with Grosse Pointe Post 303)
MISSOURI 479 Archie Boyer Goodman 575 Baker-Sparks Livonia 612 Buxtson-Alsup-Smith Jasper 788 Shell Knob Shell Knob
NEW JERSEY 89 Elwood P. Tice Westville 411 Basil Slocum Memorial West Long (to merge with Frank Holmgren- Branch James Gurbisz Memorial Post 325) 476 Long Beach Island Beach Haven
NEW YORK 29 Benedict Tripodo Memorial Bronx 218 Lieut. Herman Silverstein Albany 500 Carroll Gardens Brooklyn Peter Abbruzzese-Washington 888 Greys Bronx 1173 Richmond County Police Staten Island Tompkinsville, 1417 Lodge-Pignata S. I. 1494 Crosier-Engle-Winter Rochester 1565 Wells Wells 1598 Staten Island Womens Staten Island 1604 Boehm-Dodd Palenville 1918 Highgate Manor Cortland 1934 Soundview Memorial Bronx CN16 Ottawa Ottawa, Ontario
Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 205 NORTH CAROLINA 44 Boyden-Robinson Asheville 101 Womble Chavis Bear Creek 398 Drexel Drexel (to merge with Valdese Post 234)
OHIO 350 Bedford (to merge with Maple Bedford Heights Post 309) 445 Pettisville (to merge with Robinson- Pettisville Gibbs Post 265) 727 Mary P. Klaser Memorial (to merge Youngstown with Mahoning Valley Post 15) 741 Urbana (to merge with Pearce- Urbana Kerns Post 120)
WYOMING 83 Carter-Brown Cheyenne
It is the recommendation of the Membership and Post Activities Committee the following two (2) charter cancellations not be approved until additional research can be done: MARYLAND 210 Pikesville Pikesville
NEW JERSEY 117 Sunapee Sunapee
Sons of The American Legion Charters Presented to The National Executive Committee for Cancellation May 5, 2011
On October 14, 2010, at the Fall Meeting in Indianapolis, Indiana the National Executive Committee approved the cancellation of three (3) Squadrons. Nineteen (19) Squadrons have been submitted for cancellation consideration during the 2011 Spring NEC Meeting in Indianapolis, Indiana. It is recommended that the following nineteen (19) Squadrons be cancelled:
Department Post # Name Location
ALABAMA 35 Ensley Ensley- Birmingham 182 Orange Beach Orange Beach
INDIANA 401 Williamson-Smiley Redkey
KENTUCKY 53 Booneville Booneville
MASSACHUSETTS 38 Stanley Hill Lexington 44 Roxbury Roxbury 56 James E. Welch Boston 85 Ensign John J. O'Connell South Boston 105 Edward McSweeney Boston 167 West Roxbury West Roxbury 196 William L. Harris Boston 250 William F. Sinclair Boston
206 Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 269 General Casimir Pulaski Boston 299 Alexander Graham Bell Boston 305 Boston Newspapermens Boston 316 Joyce Kilmer West Roxbury
MICHIGAN 552 Weatherford-Vander-Hoeven Detroit (to merge with Grosse Pointe Sqdn 303)
NEW YORK 1173 Richmond County Police Staten Island
WYOMING 83 Carter-Brown Cheyenne
NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Confirmation of dates for future meetings. RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE HEDRICK: Mr. Commander, we do not have any dates to approve at this time for future meetings. NATIONAL ADJUTANT WHEELER: All dates have been approved.
Confirmation of Dates for Future Meetings
Following are dates for future meetings of The American Legion for the years 2011- 2016, which have been previously confirmed by the National Executive Committee. They are as follows: 2011 Fall Meetings Commission and Committees October 10-11 Commanders and Adjutants Conference October 10-11 National Executive Committee October 12-13 2012 Washington Conference February 26-29 2012 Spring Meetings Commissions and Committees May 7-8 National Executive Committee May 9-10 2012 Fall Meetings Commissions and Committees October 15-16 Commanders and Adjutants Conference October 15-16 National Executive Committee October 17-18 These dates need National Executive Committee confirmation: 2013 Washington Conference February 24-27 2013 Spring Meeting Commissions and Committees May 6-7 National Executive Committee May 8-9 2013 Fall Meetings Commissions and Committees October 14-15 Commanders and Adjutants Conference October 14-15 National Executive Committee October 16-17 2014 Washington Conference March 23-26 2014 Spring Meetings Commissions and Committees May 5-6 National Executive Committee May 7-8 2014 Fall Meetings Commissions and Committees October 13-14 Commanders and Adjutants Conference October 13-14 National Executive Committee October 15-16
Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 207 2015 Washington Conference February 22-25 2015 Spring Meetings Commissions and Committees May 4-5 National Executive Committee May 6-7 2015 Fall Meetings Commissions and Committees October 12-13 Commanders and Adjutants Conference October 12-13 National Executive Committee October 14-15 2016 Washington Conference February 21-24 2016 Spring Meetings Commissions and Committees May 2-3 National Executive Committee May 4-5 2016 Fall Meetings Commissions and Committees October 10-11 Commanders and Adjutants Conference October 10-11 National Executive Committee October 12-13.
NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Thank you. Past National Commander Conley. PAST NATIONAL COMMANDER CONLEY: Mr. Commander, I have a question on the previous report, this group of addendums of resolutions here. Were any of the resolutions that were passed by this National Executive Committee that has legislative intent, part of this addendum? NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: I yield to either the chairman or Director of the Legislative Division Tim Tetz. PAST NATIONAL COMMANDER CONLEY: I know we have one resolution, resolution 21, which dealt with the military occupational specialties. We also had resolution on POW, and I don't see them as a part of the addendum that's attached here. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Okay. LEGISLATIVE COMMISSION CHAIRMAN DELLENGER: Past National Commander Conley, all the resolutions that were passed by the NEC are part of our legislative agenda. The ones, if you look at Rule 8-b where it states that the legislative program is prepared for each session of Congress by the National Legislative Commission, and it's based upon timeliness, what we feel that we can get accomplished quickly. And although there were over 250 resolutions that were passed by the NEC at the convention, so they are all part of our legislative intent. PAST NATIONAL COMMANDER CONLEY: Well, Mr. Chairman, we've had this discussion and I've had it with the director and the national adjutant. There's been some movement in Congress to deal with certain issues that are pertinent to The American Legion. And I personally believe that any resolutions that are passed, either at our National Convention or passed at this NEC, and we've had several of them here today. In the past, we had plenty of time going from Wednesday to Thursday to add them as part of the addendum to be legislative intent. And we cannot sit there and not make this part of our program. Some people might leave here thinking our priorities are the only ones that are attached to your report. And actually, it's what was passed here yesterday. We have several resolutions that have legislative intent that deal with the Congress. To give you an example, on resolutions 21 dealing with the calling on Congress to hold hearings dealing with the physical and mental requirements for those that are in the military, to make sure that standards are not altered. Now, I want to make sure that these resolutions that were passed yesterday are actually a part of our legislative initiative going into this Congress.
208 Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 LEGISLATIVE DIRECTOR TETZ: Commander Conley, Commander Foster, members of the NEC. You are absolutely correct. The resolutions that were passed by your body today and yesterday are immediately upon your recess, part of our legislative initiatives, and we'll pursue them as much and with as much vigor as we can. Rule 8-b, which that addendum addresses, directs that the National Legislative Commission shall meet, and weed through all the resolutions and determine which ones become part of the program and which ones are legislative initiatives and legislative programs. Because the commission has not met since you all have passed those legislative initiatives, they haven't had a chance to debate those pieces. However, I reiterate, everything that you've passed that had legislative intent, will be our standing orders beginning today as we move forward in Congress. PAST NATIONAL COMMANDER CONLEY: Mr. Director, I believe in the future, to make sure there's no confusion, I understand your commission hasn't met, but this body supersedes your commission, and if this body passed resolutions that had legislative intent, it should have been automatically added to your report today as part of the legislative agenda. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Past National Commander Spanogle. PAST NATIONAL COMMANDER SPANOGLE: I'm going to concur with Mr. Conley. I helped draft the resolution 21, and there are other resolutions. He's quite right. The ruling body of The American Legion of course is the National Convention. In the interim, the National Executive Committee. And I understand the challenges of legislation having been the executive director of the Washington Office. Resolution 21 is important to our national security. And frankly we ought to initiate hearings on Congress and the Armed Services Committee, and the Senate Armed Services Committee, to look at and review the report on women in the military in '92. This resolution is a companion resolution. It strengthens the resolution by the National Convention that we adopted through approval of our National Convention. I implore you, quite frankly, it's a very, very serious issue. In the last resolve clause, it does say that, "The American Legion believes that without such strong oversight by Congress ..." And I think our voice needs to be heard. We are wartime veterans. This is about some very, very serious matters that are going on in the military, and I fully concur. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Thank you. Any other discussion? Your resolve is going to be? COMMISSION CHAIRMAN DELLINGER: Mr. Commander, members of the NEC. Our staff will take this under advisement and push it as hard as we possibly can as soon as we get back to Washington. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Past National Commander Brieden. PAST NATIONAL COMMANDER BRIEDEN: Mr. Commander, I move that we have them change their addendum to incorporate these and we pass it, and that way we don't have to worry about them getting back and working on it. It's already done. …Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You heard the motion and a second that the resolutions in question be amended to the addendum. Any discussion? All in favor? Opposed? Carried. Thank you gentlemen. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Mr. Hedrick. RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN HEDRICK: Thank you. Mr. Commander, before giving my final report, I want to bring one resolution that was brought before us yesterday under Rule 8-a. At this time I would like the read the resolution again. Let it be known, it's being read again at 9:03.
Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 209 Resolution No. 40: 2014 National Convention Contract Origin: National Convention Commission Submitted by: National Convention Commission WHEREAS, The National Convention Commission has reviewed the status of the proposed National American Legion Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina, August 22 – 28, 2014; and WHEREAS, Subject to receiving a properly executed contract from the 2014 American Legion National Convention Corporation of North Carolina the National Convention Commission believes that all conditions for a contract covering The American Legion National Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina, August 22 – 28, 2014, have been satisfied; and WHEREAS, The National Convention Commission hereby recommends to the National Executive Committee that it enter into the appropriate contract with the 2014 American Legion National Convention Corporation of North Carolina to cover the 2014 American Legion National Convention; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, By the National Executive Committee of The American Legion in regular meeting assembled in Indianapolis, Indiana, on May 4 – 5, 2011, That the National Commander, after receipt of an executed contract from the 2014 American Legion Convention Corporation of North Carolina and the review and approval of same from the National Judge Advocate, be and is hereby authorized and directed to execute said contract and the National Adjutant, be and is hereby authorized and directed to attest to same.
RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN HEDRICK: This has the approval of the National Convention Commission, the Subcommittee on Resolutions, and I so move for its approval. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and the second to approve resolution number 40 after the second reading under rule 8-a. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried. RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN HEDRICK: Mr. Commander, if I could have just one minute of personal privilege before I read my final report. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You may. RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN HEDRICK: You know, I know you've heard about Ray Smith of North Carolina. Ray is a very sick person. And they called hospice in, and it don't look very good for my friend Ray Smith, past national commander. His wife, Helen, she is there and the family, and they're holding up pretty well. I told them I would speak to the NEC about Ray. Ray don't correspond too much anymore, so if you've got a chance to send a card when you get back home. I'm sure his family and his wife would appreciate it. Another issue, as you can see, the seat of the NECman from Florida is vacant again this morning. Bob Proctor, when you seen him this weekend, he's a pretty sick person himself. So, let's remember Bob and Ruth and his family in prayers as they go back to Florida. Dennis said they're going back probably to go see a doctor. Bob has had some real health issues while he's been up here, and I been down that road and lot of us here have been down that road, so let's give them a lot of prayers. Prayer does work. And cards can help very much. So, thank you very much, Mr. Commander.
210 Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 Final Report of the Subcommittee on Resolutions Jerry L. Hedrick, North Carolina, Chairman
Mr. Commander, your Subcommittee on Resolutions has been in session since May the 2nd. We have considered all resolutions that have come before the committee, and have considered and acted upon 43 resolutions. I would like to take this time to thank the members of the committee who have done an outstanding job and have attended every session, and participated in discussions of these resolutions. My special thanks goes to my Vice Chairman, Dave Warnken, from Kansas. Bob Proctor, my friend from Florida is not here. Robert Owen of Maine. Bill Kile of West Virginia. Charles Schmidt of Oregon. Ray DeZurik of Minnesota. (Applause) You may be seated. Thank you. I tell you what, those fellows work hard and we sit in that room and we go through a lot of issues. And if it wasn't for you folks, we couldn't get through without you, and I thank them very much for what we've done. Appreciation is also extended to Howard Trace and his staff who serve our committee. And also I want to thank the Document Center, directors and chairmen of commissions and committees have been most cooperative and helpful this week in order to bring the reports to you. During our deliberations, we have met with a number of chairmen, and staff have been very helpful to us in explaining questions we had about our resolutions. Mr. Commander, it's a pleasure to serve as chairman of the Resolutions Subcommittee. We would like to thank the National Executive Committee in reporting these various resolutions. You have been most cooperative. Mr. Commander, I move that this report be received and filed. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and the second to receive and file the report. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried. Miscellaneous business and technical motions. RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN HEDRICK: Mr. Commander. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Yes sir. RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIRMAN HEDRICK: I would like to make a technical motion and move that the national adjutant be and is instructed to review the minutes of the NEC meeting and make any necessary corrections without changing the intent of the NEC meeting, and proceed to edit and distribute these minutes. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion and the second. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: F. Wayne Turner, Alabama. NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBER TURNER (AL): Thank you, sir. I would just like to address this committee for a minute. You know, several years ago I stood up here and gave a report on our devastation down in Alabama from Hurricane Katrina, and thanked everybody for what they did and all the support and prayers we had then. Again, I stand before you, humbly, to thank you for all your prayers and thoughts. You know, we're making the best of it down there. Last week we lost about 265 of our people down there. We lost a post, the post commander and his wife. We lost a 22 year old girl at the University of Alabama plus the other people. It's been a major catastrophe down there. The destruction is untold. Commander, when walk through there, you know what it's all about. The national commander came down after Katrina and walked through there and he can attest to what kind of destruction that stuff will do for you. This is the worst thing we've ever had, besides Katrina in the State of Alabama. Your thoughts, your prayers and your help is appreciated. With that, we will survive. Thank you. (Applause)
Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 211 NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Joe Aguilar, Arizona. NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBER AGUILAR (AZ): Commander, I have got a check here. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: We'll take it. NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBER AGUILAR: We'll give it to you if you want it. (Laughter) ... At this time National Vice Commander Mella assumed the Chair. This is a check for $1,000 from the Thunderbird Legion Riders of Post 41, Phoenix, Arizona, for the Legacy Scholarship Fund. (Applause) ... At this time National Commander Foster resumed the Chair. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Does anybody have any announcements? Nothing? You guys are that quiet, I can't believe it. ...At this time National Vice Commander Schrier assumed the Chair.
Closing Remarks Jimmie L. Foster, Alaska, National Commander
Good morning national officers, past national commanders and members of the NEC, and all of our elite guests. I'll be brief since I know many of you have flights to catch and you want to get out of here. In my opinion, these meetings have been very productive. Together we shared our sorrow of the loss a good friend and a great Legionnaire. More importantly, we heard people share their happy memories of Past National Commander John H. Geiger of Illinois. I'm looking forward to see his portrait hanging, and his name being entered upon the John H. Geiger Operations Center out at Ft. Harrison. Commander Geiger would be disappointed with us to hear that 70 percent of our returning veterans referred by Heroes to Hometowns are not being contacted by Legionnaires when they get home. Dave Rehbein suggestion to involve the Riders and the Auxiliary is more than a good one. We must fix this problem. And it needs our attention now. I'm also looking forward to Congress heeding the request of Bob Spanogle to hold hearings on why the top agencies that serve veterans aren't doing a better job in hiring them. The requirements to obtain employment for federal jobs are cumbersome to say the least. The one-stop website that The American Legion is calling on in resolutions number 30 is a step in the right direction. This body is commended for approving and addressing important and controversial issues such as women in combat and TRICARE fee increases. There are no easy answers, but The American Legion is not afraid to dodge tough issues. We offer sound solutions and we do not crumble. I'm excited about the committee being formed to observe the 100th Anniversary of The American Legion. Let us resolve for each of us to be happy and healthy when we attend the 2019 Convention here in our national headquarters city of Indianapolis, Indiana. Don't forget to spread the word about the "Making of a Star" auditions. You heard Bob Morrill reference that as being able to tap dance. This commander can sing, so I don't consider that tap dancing, Bob. (Laughter) It is a great opportunity of talented veterans to become more famous. Be sure to visit the national website often for the details. You may even know some person's name there. A special thanks goes out to the departments yesterday and even today who presented checks to our programs. Let me tell you what the final numbers were. For the National Emergency Fund, $33,384. The Child Welfare Foundation, $13,553. And then with the Department of Arizona's contribution this morning for The American Legion
212 Proceedings of Thursday, May 5, 2011 Legacy Scholarship Fund, $1,000. I continue to be amazed, but not surprised, by the support given to our programs in communities by the rank and file Legion family members on up to the senior leadership within our organization. (Applause) There is an editorial that's on your desk. I ask that you take it home and insist that it gets in your local newspaper. The American people deserve what they want, and we want to see proof and pictures of the capture and death of Osama Bin Ladin. Are you with me? (Applause) We people in the military have seen death, so it would not hurt us or hurt our feelings. It would make sure that there is a closure to something that's been around for over 15 years, and I figured out where he's at. It is the Middle East. I couldn't think of the Middle East last night. I walked clear around the globe. Nobody would mention the word Middle East. Thank you very much for your help. (Laughter) I want to thank you for being your National Commander. It is an honor and privilege to serve, but you are great guys and gals, and with your help, we will keep this organization great for the next 100 years. Have a safe trip home and let us have a great time in Minneapolis. I am looking forward to arriving in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Thank you very much, ladies and gentlemen. (Standing applause) ...At this time National Commander Foster resumed the Chair. RESOLUTIONS SUBCOMMITTEE VICE CHAIRMAN WARNKEN: Mr. Commander, motion to receive and file your report. ...Second. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: You've heard the motion to receive and file my report. Any discussion? All in favor. Opposed? Carried. The benediction will be by Daniel J. Seehafer from Wisconsin.
Benediction Rev. Daniel J. Seehafer, Wisconsin National Chaplain
Family we pray. Heavenly Father we certainly come before You once again to state that we certainly do thank You for all the victories, and of course as I've been making that statement throughout our time here. Having it being personal. Yes, serving America's veterans is very personal. And so we keep in our prayers all of our Legion members, families and friends. Like Ray and Bob, and again the true friend. So, Lord we just ask now that You would be with us as we depart our ways, again, for that call, for that purpose to serve America's veterans every day. We ask these blessings and Your guidance and your protection to be upon us. This we do pray in Your most holy name. And so it shall be. Amen. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: Recover. Sergeant-at-arms if you will bring us to the salute. ...At this time the National Executive Committee stood and saluted the Colors. NATIONAL COMMANDER FOSTER: I declare this National Executive Committee adjourned. Thank you. ...At 9:20 a.m., the Spring Meetings of the National Executive Committee adjourned. Sine Die.
Abbreviations
ALB ...... American Legion Baseball ALR ...... American Legion Riders ASVET ...... Assistant Secretary Veterans Employment and Training Service
BDD ...... Benefits Delivery at Discharge BVA ...... Board of Veteran Appeals
CARES ...... Capital Asset for Realignment for Enhanced Services CWF ...... Child Welfare Foundation
DADT ...... Don't Ask, Don't Tell DARPA ...... Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency DHS ...... Department of Homeland Security DMS ...... Direct Mail Solicitation DoD ...... Department of Defense, Department of Defense DOL ...... Department of Labor DOL-VETS ...... Department of Labor's Veterans Employment and Training Services DoS ...... Department of State DPRK ...... Democratic People's Republic of Korea DVOP ...... Disabled Veteran Outreach Program
FY ...... Fiscal Year
GAO ...... Government Accountability Office GIFF ...... GI Film Festival GSA ...... Government Services Administration
H2H ...... Heroes to Hometowns HIPPA ...... Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act HUD ...... Housing and Urban Development HVRP ...... Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program
IAVA ...... Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America IBM ...... International Business Machines IED ...... Improvised Explosive Device
JPAC...... Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command JROTC ...... Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps
LDS ...... The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints LVER ...... Local Veterans Employment Representative
MIA ...... Missing in Action MLDC ...... Military Leadership Diversity Commission MOAA ...... Military Officers Association of America MOS ...... military occupational specialties MST ...... Military Sexual Trauma
NATO ...... North Atlantic Treaty Organization
214 NCA ...... National Cemetery Administration NCO ...... Non-Commissioned Officer NCOE ...... National Committee on Education NEC ...... National Executive Committee NEF ...... National Emergency Fund NVLSP ...... National Veterans Legal Services Program
OCW...... Operation Comfort Warriors OEF ...... Operation Enduring Freedom OIF ...... Operation Iraqi Freedom OJJDP ...... Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention OND ...... Operation New Dawn OSS ...... Office of Strategic Services
PNC ...... Past National Commander POW ...... Prisoner of War PSA ...... public service announcement PTS ...... post traumatic stress PTSD ...... post traumatic stress disorder PUFL ...... Paid Up For Life
ROK ...... Republic of Korea ROTC ...... Reserve Officer Training Corps
SAL ...... Sons of the American Legion SBA ...... Small Business Administration SCIP ...... Strategic Capital Investment Planning SVA ...... Student Veterans of America
TALM ...... The American Legion Magazine TBI ...... traumatic brain injury TFA ...... Temporary Financial Assistance
UCMJ ...... Uniform Code of Military Justice USAA ...... United Services Automobile Association USAF ...... United States Air Force USAID ...... United States Agency for International Development USERRA ...... Uniformed Services Employment and Re-employment Rights Act
VA ...... Department of Veterans Affairs VAVS ...... Veterans Affairs Voluntary Service VBA ...... Veterans Benefits Administration VETS ...... Veterans Employment and Training Services VFW ...... Veterans of Foreign Wars VHA ...... Veterans Health Administration VPOC ...... Veterans Policy Oversight Committee VSO ...... Veterans Service Organization
WWR ...... Wounded Warrior Regiment
Index
100th Anniversary of The American Legion ...... 38, 39, 59, 86, 149, 169, 171, 211 2010 National Convention Committee of Wisconsin report ...... 56 2011 American Legion Boys Nation Contract ...... 44 2014 National Convention Contract ...... 61, 209 990 Compliance Policy ...... 34 A Ad Hoc Committee for TBI/PTS report ...... 125 Afghanistan ...... 63, 70, 89, 90, 104, 105, 106, 109, 137, 194, 195 Amend Resolution 35: 'American Legion Riders as a National Program' National Executive Committee, October 17-18, 2007 ...... 170 Amending Guidelines for the National Convention Stabilization Fund ...... 40 American Legion Baseball ...... 22, 27, 28, 33, 34, 151, 152, 180 American Legion College ...... 47, 148, 182 American Legion Distinguished Service Medal Award ...... 149, 151 American Legion John H. Geiger Operations Center ...... 18 American Legion Magazine Commission report, The ...... 94 American Legion Position on the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Strategic Capital Investment Planning (SCIP) Program ...... 76 American Legion World Series ...... 22, 27, 33, 34, 151, 152, 180 American Legion Youth Programs Alumni Association, The ...... 22, 24 American Legion's Position on Tricare ...... 112 Americanism Commission report ...... 21 Appointment of a Veterans Policy Oversight Committee ...... 85 Appointment of the 100th Anniversary Observance Committee ...... 169 Appointment of the Centennial Task Force for the Future ...... 86 Arlington National Cemetery ...... 88, 104 Armed Services Academy Awards Update ...... 42 Ashworth, Mrs. Carlene E...... 8 Authority to Amend Agreement with Michael Peterson ...... 44 Authorization for The American Legion and Legion Racing to Enter Into An Agreement with US Coin Boards, LLC, to Raise Funds for the Legion Racing Freedom Car ...... 43 Award the 2018 National Convention to the City of Minneapolis, Minnesota ...... 38 Award the 2019 National Convention to the City of Indianapolis, Indiana ...... 39 B Benediction ...... 212 bin Laden, Osama ...... 1, 4, 212 Boy Scouts of America ...... 26, 151 Boys Nation ...... 26, 27, 28, 36, 44, 180, 182 Boys State ...... 26, 27 Buckles, Frank ...... 9 C Canadian Friendship Award ...... 149, 153 Capital Asset Realignment for Enhanced Services (CARES) ...... 63, 76
216 Career Fairs ...... 133, 137 Centennial Task Force for the Future ...... 86 Child Welfare Foundation ...... 9, 96, 97, 98, 162, 164, 166, 167, 211 Citizens Flag Alliance ...... 186 Closing Remarks, National Commander ...... 211 Commission on Children and Youth report ...... 96 Confirmation of Cancellation of Post and/or Squadron Charters ...... 202 Confirmation of Dates for Future Meetings ...... 206 Confirmation of Interim Appointments ...... 201 Counter-Subversive Activities Committee ...... 23, 24 Creation of a Committee to Formulate Plans for Observance of the 100th Anniversary of The American Legion ...... 169 D Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency ...... 89, 103, 104 Democratic People's Republic of Korea ...... 88, 103 Department of Homeland Security ...... 135, 136, 139, 195 Direct Mail Solicitation ...... 29, 30, 33, 34 Disabled Veterans Outreach Program ...... 135, 138, 154 Disabled Veterans Tax Termination Act ...... 7 Don't Ask, Don't Tell ...... 105, 106 E Eagle Scout of the Year ...... 22, 26 Economic Commission report ...... 131 Emblem Committee report ...... 36 Employer of the Year ...... 135, 154 Establishment of The American Legion Amateur Radio Club ...... 46 Eulogies for Past National Commander John H. Geiger ...... 12 F Family Support Network ...... 96, 98 Federal Emergency Management Agency ...... 124 Finance Commission report ...... 33 flag amendment ...... 6, 192 Flexible Savings Accounts ...... 108 Foreign Relations Commission report ...... 87 Four Pillars ...... 46, 86 Fourth Estate Award ...... 157, 181 G Geiger Hildebrand, Vivienne ...... 19 Geiger, John H., PNC ...... 11, 211 H Heroes to Hometowns ...... 132, 133, 140, 145, 211 homeless veterans ...... 130, 132, 133, 140, 187, 191 homeless veterans providers workshop ...... 133 Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program ...... 134, 140
Bold typeface indicates the title of a resolution 217 I illegal immigration ...... 23, 24 Immigration and Naturalization Subcommittee ...... 24 Improvements Needed for the Department of Veterans Affairs Benefits for Veterans Who Have Served in a Combat Theater ...... 77 Indian Veterans Housing Opportunity Act ...... 193 Insurance Committee report ...... 37 Internal Affairs Commission report ...... 146 Invocation ...... 1, 175 Iraq 63, 70, 89, 90, 104, 105, 106, 109, 137, 195 J Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command ...... 90, 105, 106 JPAC Forensic Science Academy ...... 91, 106 Junior Law Cadet Program ...... 27 Junior Shooting Sports Program ...... 26, 152 K Korea ...... 88, 90, 92, 103, 105 L Label the Four Pillars on the National Headquarters Building in Indianapolis ...... 46 Legacy Scholarship Fund ...... 23, 25, 36, 44, 45, 163, 211 Legion Racing ...... 43 Legion Riders ...... 140, 145, 146, 165, 170, 180, 211 Legislative Commission report ...... 185 Local Veterans Employment Representative ...... 135, 138, 154 M Making of a Star, The ...... 4, 178, 181 Marine Corps Wounded Warrior Regiment ...... 5 Matthews, Joe L., PNC ...... 167 Membership and Post Activities Committee report ...... 29 Memorial Resolutions...... 11 Military Occupational Specialty ...... 63, 89, 104, 110, 127, 131 Military Readiness ...... 111 Military Retirees ...... 7, 112 My America ...... 95 N National Children & Youth Conference ...... 98 National Committee on Education ...... 22, 23, 24 National Convention Commission report ...... 58 National Convention Registration Fee ...... 40 National Convention Stabilization Fund ...... 40 National Defense Authorization Act ...... 194 National Emergency Fund ...... 5, 146, 150, 159, 162, 172, 178, 181, 211 National Employer Awards ...... 138
Bold typeface indicates the title of a resolution 218 National High School Oratorical Contest ...... 25 National Historian report ...... 20 National Security Commission report ...... 102, 107 O Online renewal...... 29, 30 Opening Remarks, National Commander ...... 4 Operation Comfort Warriors ...... 5, 163, 178, 179, 180, 182 Operation Enduring Freedom ...... 67, 145 Operation Iraqi Freedom ...... 67, 145 Operation New Dawn ...... 145 Oppose Widow's Tax ...... 110 P Peterson, Michael ...... 21, 22, 23, 25, 36, 44, 45 Pledge of Allegiance ...... 1, 175 Post 9/11 GI Bill ...... 139 post traumatic stress disorder ...... 57, 63, 68, 69, 72, 74, 187, 190, 194 Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Improvements Act of 2010 ...... 194 POW/MIA ...... 1, 87, 90, 92, 93, 105, 149, 171, 197 POW/MIA Accounting Policies ...... 92 Powerful Force for the Nation ...... 179, 181 Proper Display, Care and Respect of the American Flag ...... 28 Public Relations Commission report ...... 177 R Rare Earth Elements ...... 113 Real Warriors Campaign ...... 126, 129 RecruitMilitary ...... 133, 137 Report: 2010 National Convention Committee of Wisconsin ...... 56 Ad Hoc Committee for TBI/PTS ...... 125 American Legion Magazine Commission, The ...... 94 Americanism Commission ...... 21 Commission on Children and Youth ...... 96 Economic Commission ...... 131 Emblem Committee ...... 36 Finance Commission ...... 33 Foreign Relations Commission ...... 87 Insurance Committee ...... 37 Internal Affairs Commission ...... 146 Legislative Commission ...... 185 Membership and Post Activities Committee ...... 29 National Convention Commission ...... 58 National Historian ...... 20 National Security Commission ...... 102 Public Relations Commission ...... 177 Subcommittee on Resolutions ...... 10, 210 Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission ...... 63, 71
Bold typeface indicates the title of a resolution 219 Rescind Resolution 14, NEC, May 5-6, 2010, 100th Anniversary Commemorative American Legion Coin ...... 149 Rescind Resolution 20, NEC, October 13-14, 2010, Support a Veteran-Centric Website for Employment...... 142 Rescinding Non-Legislative Resolutions from the Subcommittee on Resolutions .... 79 Rescinding Obsolete Resolutions Dealing with Foreign Relations ...... 93 Rescinding Obsolete Resolutions Dealing with National Security ...... 114 Rescinding of Children & Youth Non-Legislative Policy Resolutions ...... 99 Rescinding of Insurance Resolutions ...... 50 Rescinding of National Convention Commission Resolutions...... 61 Rescinding of National Legislative Program Non-Legislative Policy Resolutions .. 198 Rescinding of Public Relations Non-Legislative Policy Resolutions ...... 183 Rescinding of Res. No. 17, National Executive Committee, October 2009 Travel Policy for Call-Ins ...... 45 Rescission of Outdated Resolutions ...... 47 Reserves and National Guard Retirement Benefit Fairness ...... 114 Resolutions: No. 1: The American Legion John H. Geiger Operations Center ...... 18 No. 2: Award the 2018 National Convention to the City of Minneapolis, Minnesota ...... 38 No. 3: Award the 2019 National Convention to the City of Indianapolis, Indiana . 39 No. 4: National Convention Registration Fee ...... 40 No. 5: Amending Guidelines for the National Convention Stabilization Fund ...... 40 No. 6: Armed Services Academy Awards Update ...... 42 No. 7: Authorization for The American Legion and Legion Racing to Enter Into an Agreement with US Coin Boards, LLC, to Raise Funds for the Legion Racing Freedom Car ...... 43 No. 8: 2011 American Legion Boys Nation Contract ...... 44 No. 9: Authority to Amend Agreement with Michael Peterson ...... 44 No. 10:Rescinding of Res. No. 17, National Executive Committee, October 2009-- Travel Policy for Call-Ins ...... 45 No. 11: Establishment of The American Legion Amateur Radio Club ...... 46 No. 12: Label the Four Pillars on the National Headquarters Building in Indianapolis ...... 46 No. 13: Rescission of Outdated Resolutions ...... 47 No. 14: Rescinding of Insurance Resolutions ...... 50 No. 15: Rescinding of National Convention Commission Resolutions ...... 61 No. 16: Rescinding of Public Relations Non-Legislative Policy Resolutions ...... 183 No. 17: Rescinding of National Legislative Program Non-Legislative Policy Resolutions ...... 198 No. 18: POW/MIA Accounting Policies ...... 92 No. 19: Rescinding Obsolete Resolutions Dealing with Foreign Relations ...... 93 No. 20: Flexible Savings Accounts ...... 108 No. 21: Uniform Standards for Combat Military Occupational Specialties ...... 109 No. 22: Oppose Widow's Tax ...... 110 No. 23: Military Readiness ...... 111 No. 24: The American Legion's Position on Tricare ...... 112 No. 25: Rare Earth Elements ...... 113 No. 26: Reserves and National Guard Retirement Benefit Fairness ...... 114 No. 27: Rescinding Obsolete Resolutions Dealing with National Security ...... 114 No. 28: Support Licensure and Certification Standards for Veterans Health Administration ...... 141 Bold typeface indicates the title of a resolution 220 No. 29: Rescind Resolution 20, NEC, October 13-14, 2010, Support a Veteran Centric Website for Employment...... 142 No. 30: Support a National Employment Website for Veterans ...... 143 No. 31: Creation of a Committee to Formulate Plans for Observance of the 100th Anniversary of The American Legion ...... 169 No. 32: Amend Resolution 35: 'American Legion Riders as a National Program' National Executive Committee, October 17-18, 2007 ...... 170 No. 33: Retirement of the POW/MIA Flag as Part of the POW/MIA Empty Chair Ceremony ...... 170 No. 34: Rescind Resolution 14, NEC, May 5-6, 2010, 100th Anniversary Commemorative American Legion Coin ...... 171 No. 35: The American Legion Position on the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Strategic Capital Investment Planning (SCIP) Program ...... 76 No. 36: Improvements Needed for the Department of Veterans Affairs Benefits for Veterans Who Have Service in a Combat Theater ...... 77 No. 37: Junior Law Cadet Program ...... 27 No. 38: Proper Display, Care and Respect of the American Flag ...... 28 No. 39: Rescinding of Children & Youth Non-Legislative Policy Resolutions ...... 99 No. 40: 2014 National Convention Contract...... 61, 209 No. 41: Rescinding Non-Legislative Resolutions from the Subcommittee on Resolutions ...... 79 No. 42: Appointment of a Veterans Policy Oversight Committee ...... 85 No. 43: Centennial Task Force for the Future ...... 86 Retired Pay Restoration Act ...... 7 Retirement of the POW/MIA Flag as Part of the POW/MIA Empty Chair Ceremony ...... 171 Roll Call ...... 2, 175 S Slingerland Memorial Trophy ...... 150 Small Business Administration ...... 136, 139 Small Business Development Workshops ...... 131, 136, 137, 139 Small Business Task Force ...... 136 Strategic Capital Investment Planning (SCIP) ...... 63, 76 Subcommittee on Resolutions report ...... 10, 210 suicide prevention ...... 64, 66, 195 Support a National Employment Website for Veterans ...... 143 Support Licensure and Certification Standards for Veterans Health Administration ...... 141 System Worth Saving Program...... 63, 69, 74 T Temporary Financial Assistance ...... 6, 96, 97 traumatic brain injury ...... 63, 64, 68, 69, 72, 74, 89, 104, 109, 125-131, 187, 190, 194 Tricare ...... 90, 105, 107, 108, 112, 131, 194, 195, 211 U Uniform Code of Military Justice ...... 90, 105, 111 Uniform Standards for Combat Military Occupational Specialties ...... 109 Uniformed Services Employment and Equitable Relief Act ...... 134
Bold typeface indicates the title of a resolution 221 Uniformed Services Employment and Re-employment Rights Act ...... 134 USAA ...... 6, 33, 34, 38, 94, 95 V Veteran Women Igniting the Spirit of Entrepreneurship ...... 139 Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission report ...... 63, 71 Veterans Affairs Voluntary Service ...... 66, 75 Veterans Employment and Training Services ...... 133, 134, 137, 140, 142, 143, 193 Veterans Entrepreneurship...... 139 Veterans Health Administration ...... 64, 76, 137, 141, 144 Veterans on Campus Seminar ...... 132, 134, 138, 139 W Widow's Tax ...... 106, 107, 110 Women in Combat ...... 104, 109, 211 Women Veterans ...... 7, 65, 70, 71, 72, 109, 132, 140, 182 Women Veterans survey ...... 63, 70, 72, 182 Y Youth Activities Subcommittee ...... 25 Youth Champions ...... 22
Bold typeface indicates the title of a resolution