Top 5 Districts! (As of 3/20/13) M N / L R I R U 2Nd - District 19 90.28% T P E

Official Publication of The American Legion Department of Michigan - www.michiganlegion.org - April/May 2013

MIMichigan Legionnaire & Wolverine Auxiliaire Vol. LXXXI No.7 GIVE A HIGH SCHOOL JUNIOR THE OPPORTUNITY OF A LIFETIME THE MICHIGAN LEGION EDUCATING FUTURE LEADERS SINCE 1938 It has been said that at the close of students attend Boys State at www.michiganlegion.org/boysstate DO YOU KNOW OF A HIGH the Constitutional Convention of 1787 Northwood University in Midland, What about the young ladies? SCHOOL STUDENT INTER- a lady asked Benjamin Franklin “Well Michigan to learn by doing. On the ESTED IN LAW ENFORCE- Doctor do we have a Monarchy or a job training is the best training anyone The American Legion Auxiliary MENT? Republic?”, the kind Franklin replied, can receive; you can learn by reading Department of Michigan sponsors Girl “A Republic, if you can keep it.” something in a book, you can learn State for the young high school junior The Michigan Legion Student The United States of America is a even more by actually doing it. ladies to attend. Where they too learn Trooper program is forming now. The representative Republic type of gov- about how government works and have 2013 summer class will be July 14th – ernment, not a democracy. A repub- What do attendees of Boys a chance at scholarship money, life- July 19th, 2013 at the Michigan State lic takes work; it takes people who State receive when they long friends, and an experience that Police Academy in Lansing Michigan. understand the system in order to attend? will last a life time. Senator Debbie High school students interested in work properly. What does our school Stabenow is a proud Michigan Girls learning more about the different system really teach about how the A week of learning through doing, State Alumni. Girls State will be at careers available in law enforcement process of choosing candidates, run- the opportunity to meet lifelong Michigan State University June 16th – should attend this program. This is June 22nd, 2013. For more informa- ning for an office, and then running friends, the possibility of extra points open to both boys and girls ages 16 to tion visit www.michalaux.org that office work? If the students are on a college acceptance application, 18 in good physical condition. lucky they will read about it in a book. and if they are a descendant of a vet- eran, the chance to win $20,000 in Do you know of any young For the past 76 years The American For more information visit Legion Department of Michigan has scholarship money. Two young men High School Juniors who want www.michiganlegion.org/trooper or been teaching, showing, and allowing will be chosen to attend Boys Nation to spend a week that will young men to experience all of those to meet President of the United States change their life this summer? call Deanna Clark at 517-371-4720 things it takes to be a representative, a and learn more about the US ext 11. mayor, a governor, a county official, a Congress first hand. WANTED YOUNG MEN AND city official, and other positions held by Boys State will be June 16th – June YOUNG LADIES FOR BOYS IS YOUR POST SPONSORING people in government. Every year for 22nd, 2013, for more information visit AND GIRLS STATE A FUTURE LEADER? one week young junior high school HOST POST Do you wish to HELPserve on aWANTED Department Level Committee? NEEDED!! Visit www.michiganlegion.org/fyi for a Department commit- The Leadership Committee is tee form and send it to Kim Siedelberg at support@michi- looking for Posts willing to host a

. ganlegion.org or mail to State Headquarters. Forms will be 2013-2014 Leadership College d e

t reviewed by the new state commander after the elections at class. If your Post can be a host s

e please contact Bud Hansbarger u State Convention. To have a form mailed contact Kim at 517- q e 371-4720 ext 13 - Deadline COB on June 29th 2013 at 616-262-6169 or by email R

3 [email protected] e 1 g 0 a t 2

s y o a P Top 5 Districts! (as of 3/20/13) M n / l r i r u 2nd - District 19 90.28% t p e

A District 12 R

3rd - District 6 90.12% o

N 90.61% 4th - District 1 89.91% 5th - District 2 89.55% Membership Report is Available Online at: michiganlegion.org/membership 2 | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | April/May 2013 | WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE Chaplains Corner (USPS 010637) is published monthly Jennifer L. Smith, State Chaplain except February, May, August, and December by The American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary, Department “LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE” of Michigan, 212 N. Verlinden, Lansing, MI 48915-1297. Periodical postage paid Since last issue, I have been on a cou- assisting Post or District/Zone officers as Additionally, I ask that all take full advan- at Lansing, MI, and additional mailing ple few-day business travels as this is one needed. Even if not required, the show tage of training available throughout offices. Subscription $10.00 non-mem- of my busy times of year. By the time this of support and a reciprocated positive the year via Department, etc. with a bers, members receive the publication issue is published, I will likely be back vis- response is often empowering for the renewed focus and constructive mindset. as part of their dues. POSTMASTER: iting even more Posts with a glad heart. entire Post. Why? Able and credible Let’s keep the good service going strong! Send address changes to Michigan To refresh, I enjoy visiting Posts through- mentorship is vital to our organization- Last, in past articles, we have dis- Legionnaire, Department of Michigan, out the state, often on non-meeting days al health and creates a stronger rapport. cussed the importance of maintaining 212 N. Verlinden, Lansing, MI 48915- and usually find something rather posi- Proverbs 27:17 ESV aptly relates, “Iron the Legion’s amazing legacy of service. 1297. tive at each. I encourage members to sharpens iron, and one man sharpens By helping train tomorrow’s leaders and do the likewise if you can to show sup- another.” cultivating an environment of integrity DEADLINE DATES port to others in our Legion Family. How many of you have ever stepped at our Posts, in our Ladies Auxiliaries, into a job without the proper training? SAL, Riders, and Jr. Auxiliary units, we JUNE- MAYs 1, 2013 However, if not, perhaps spend a bit more time at your Post to contribute as How about with a template of what to help ensure the continuity needed to Circulation: 83,168 Printed: 3-28-13 • you can. do, but not knowing all the details patriotically enrich our cities, state, and Mailed: 4-1-13 As for hurried times, I am certain involved? This is sometimes true at Posts nation. In short, those that endeavor to many of you have similar experience(s) as well. Moreover, it is easy to criticize, live with integrity and lead ethically are LEGION STATE HEADQUARTERS throughout the year. The same is true for but sometimes very intimidating to step beacons unto others; Per Matthew 5:16, DIRECTORY officers at your Posts, who must also file up. Accordingly, I ask seasoned leaders “ In the same way, let your light shine taxes among a dozen other organiza- to share their knowledge with interested before others, so that they may see your PUBLISHER: PATRICK W. LAFFERTY tional responsibilities. Therefore, those junior members. I ask the less experi- good works and give glory to your Father EDITOR:MARK SUTTON interested in helping or perhaps mov- enced members to appreciate and proac- who is in heaven.” ing through the chairs should consider tively utilize the information shared. May God bless you. The American Legion Dept. of Michigan 212 N. Verlinden, Lansing, MI 48915 (517) 371-4720 ¥ Fax: (517) 371-2401 Web Site: www.michiganlegion.org Past Department Commander (1966-67) Email: [email protected] Edwin J. Scuitema Oct 3rd, 1918 – Feb 10th, 2013 Legion and SAL Membership - 24 - [email protected] As the United States Ed left on June 13, 1944 and served the US the rehabilitation center to a Battle Creek was fighting in Europe, Navy as Gunners Mate on a liberty ship, USS hospital. Ed decided that the need for hous- Programs, Boys State and Scholarships - 11 - the Schuitema family, of Essex-Hopkins, between the US and the ing and care for veterans who were unable to [email protected] Grand Rapids, MI, was Mediterranean, until January 17, 1946. When survive on their own in the community was celebrating as they wel- Ed returned home, he took over leadership of something The American Legion could pro- Legion Finance - 17 - comed a bundle of joy the family business, and then joined The vide at their facility, and he developed “The [email protected] into their lives, with the American Legion Post #33, in Zeeland, MI. Legion Villa”. He continued to develop that He later transferred to Post #6, in Holland, program until he retired in 1985. During his Baseball, Website and History - 23 - birth of their son, Edwin [email protected] John, on October 3, where he held most all of the offices. He retirement he continued to work for the rights Edwin J. Scuitema 1918. In 1919, his was Boys State chairman, and also hosted of veterans. Veterans Service - 12 - Wednesdays only father (Bert) and mother (Anna) moved to the Tulip Time event for the Department Ed was devoted to his family and The Holland where they purchased a business Commanders for many years. Ed became American Legion. Ed was a member of Public Relations - 16 - and called it Riverview Dairy. At the age of active in the 5th District and in 1963, he ran Second Reformed Church , in Zeeland, since [email protected] 8, Ed began working for his father, delivering for Department Commander, but lost. In 1919, and was the oldest living member bap- milk house-to-house. During his junior year 1966, he ran again, and was installed in July tized in that church. Ed became a private pilot Administration - 13 - of high school, his father became very ill as Department Commander. in the early 60’s and was referred to as “The [email protected] and Ed quit school to help with the family In 1959, their first grandchild, Edwin John, Flying Dutchman”. He loved flying and he Do you have a photo you would like to business. Bert recovered and the two of them was born, followed by Karen Anne, in 1961, and Edna made many trips to National submit for the Michigan Legionnaire ran the business together, until 1968. On and Scott L. in 1963. They have three great- Conventions and other Legion functions via September 16, 1938, Edwin married Edna D. grandchildren; Erika Marie, Garrett Lee, and the air. He was devastated when , in 1990, he and/or website use? E-mail it to us at Plagenhoef and in November 1939 they wel- Amy Nicole. In 1968, he sold his business, and had heart problems and had to give up his [email protected] or mail it to comed a son, Lee, into their family. In April, in January, 1969 he and Edna moved to Battle pilot’s license and sell his airplane. Ed passed department attn: Mark Sutton. 1944, their daughter, Bonnie, was born and Creek. He took over as Administrator of away, peacefully, on Sunday, February 10, Please keep the photo at least 200 dpi on that same day, Ed received his invitation The American Legion Hospital, Southwest 2013, at Oak Crest Manor, Holland, MI. Ed or larger. If you are submiting a hard from Uncle Sam, to become a part of the US Regional Rehabilitation Center, temporarily, will be deeply missed, but his legacy of faith, copy photo, please note photos printed Army. Not wanting to “crawl on my stom- as the man who was Administrator was ill. dedication, and honesty will inspire us all to from home printers cannot be used, nor ach”, Ed went to the US Navy recruiting When he died, Ed was asked to stay on. After remember the strong foundation he built for can photos clipped from newspapers. office and enlisted! a few years, the State of Michigan moved us We look for photos showing Legion caps in action whenever possible. STATE OFFICERS Interested in placing an ad in the State Commander ...... Tom Brown, Oscoda Finance Officer ...... Lyle C. Shanks, Dorr Alt. National Executive Committeeman Michigan Legionnaire? Please Contact State Adjutant...... Patrick W. Lafferty, Farwell Historian ...... Rex Lambert, Grand Rapids ...... N/A Mark Sutton at: [email protected] 1st Zone ...... Eddie Brown Chaplain ...... Jennifer Smith, Lansing Immediate Past Commander ...... Richard I. Chatman, Detroit or by phone at 517-371-4720 ext 16. 2nd Zone...... Lynn Jolink Sergeant-at-Arms ...... Michael Buda, Dearborn Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Director 3rd Zone ...... Brett Holt Judge Advocate...... F. Garrit Veldman, Muskegon ...... James Topps, Adrian Veterans Service 4th Zone ...... Wilson Coomer National Executive Committeeman Membership Director...... Larry Money, Buchanan Directory Page 13 5th Zone ...... Jack Koivisto ...... John H. Skinner, Schoolcraft Public Relations Director . Mark Sutton, Eaton Rapids WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | April/May 2013 | 3 Headquarters Tom Brown, State Commander

Today, MondayHonoringProwse’s home I hadLost the feeling Standing that I events to attend Legionnaires by months end and I March 10th was a had meet him before. As we listened to am looking forward to meeting and great day. I had the him talk about how proud he was to be chatting with many more veterans from honor of accompa- an American Legion member he men- all wars. If you have a member who is nying Post 274 tioned that he had his 50 Year receiving 50 or 60 year Certificates Commander Joe Certificate and would be displaying please give it in person, the experience Duby and Historian them both along with his Navy mem- is more than memorable. On second Jackie Lyons to visit orabilia. That is when it dawned on me thought, contact me and if possible, I 91 year old Arthur that as the Post Commander I had pre- will accompany you to make that pres- Prowse a WWII vet- sented Mr. Prowse with his 50 Year entation. Tom Brown eran at his home. Certificate ten years ago. I leave you with the hope of many State Commander The reason for our How appropriate that this historical more “great days”. visit was to present event occurred so close to the anniver- him with his 60 year continuous mem- sary of the founding of The American bership certificate, which was signed Legion in 1919. by National Commander James Koutz Speaking of The American Legion the National Adjutant and Post Birthday my wife and had good fortune Commander Duby. Mr. Prowse told us to attend the birthday party at Post 8 in how he had gone from working for the Port Huron on the 9th of March. It Hudson Motor company to being an was a learning experience. One of the aircraft sheet metal fabricator in the highlights of the event was the honor- United States Navy from early 1942 ing of a WWII Navy veteran who had to late 1945. He was asked to reenlist survived the sinking of the ship that but he was married with children and he was assigned to. It was a heart decided to come back to Michigan and wrenching story of how he swam all raise his family. He told tales of his night covered in oil in shark infested adventures in and out of the Navy a lot waters to live to fight another day. of which reminded me of the stories my It is meeting these real American father, a WWII Navy veteran had told Heroes and listening to their real life my siblings and I as we were growing stories that make me proud to be your L-R: Brett Holt, 3rd Zone Cmd, August Miele, 7th Dist Cmd, SAL Det Cmd Rodney Tolbert, State Cmdr up. Department Commander. Tom Brown, Post 8 Cmdr David Johnson, Unit 8 Pres. Herta Scott, Department President Mary Ann As soon as we walked into Mr. I have two more Legion Birthday Yuncker, 7th Dist Pres.(PDP) Betty Kline, and Jr. Pres Alexus Champion Important Message About Ceremonial Rifles The Department has recieved the following eral attempts to work with these noncompliant Posts and immediately. Otherwise, we hope that this document pro- message from our National Washington DC their representatives to obtain required paperwork con- vides helpful information and will prevent these prob- Office. cerning Army property. Unfortunately, some Posts may lems from arising. not be clear on the procedures to be followed. Those Thank you for your attention and for ensuring that It has come to our attention that a number of Posts in violation of these procedures will not receive this program’s participants are compliant to the legal reg- American Legion Posts are not complying with the additional/replacement rifles or assets for static dis- ulations set forth. rules and regulations set forth by Tank Automotive play. In addition, these Posts’ future Command (TACOM) regarding loaned army surplus requests for ammunition will not be equipment, i.e. rifles, ammunition and static displays. honored. We have been advised that some Posts are selling A listing has been compiled of and/or giving away Army surplus equipment that was Legion Posts that have been disquali- loaned to them instead of returning this equipment to fied from participating in the Army TACOM. Please be advised that it is a federal violation Ceremonial Rifle and/or Static and subject to legal prosecution if Army weapons Display Program due to their lack of and/or Army static assets currently logged into the cooperation or non-compliance with possession of American Legion Posts are lost, trans- the laws and regulations governing ferred, given away, sold or used in any unauthorized these US Army programs. If there are manner. Additionally, our organization could be banned Posts in your Department already in from participating in the Military Funeral Honors noncompliance with said regs, a hard Program. Actions and violations such as these make it copy of this memo will be mailed to hard on those Legionnaires who volunteer their time and you with identifying documentation put forth such great effort to ensure that our fallen vet- attached. It is imperative that you erans have representation at military funerals. contact any Posts listed within your The Army Donations Program Office has made sev- jurisdiction to rectify this situation 4 | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | April/May 2013 | WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG Membership 100% MEMBERSHIP NOW IS THE TIME By Larry Money, return. If it weren’t for all the mud seen around our American Legion fam- time to look around our communities Membership and mess in the yard it would be just ily. and recruit those young men and Chairman perfect. Many good ideas came out of our women returning from active duty, But enough about that. We have just Membership meeting held on Saturday, explaining to them the advantages of Isn’t it great, the snow returned from a very well attended in particular was one that has stuck in being a member of the world’s largest is starting to melt, the Winter Conference. Despite the weath- my mind. If all of us would recruit one Veterans organization. Sponsorship of temperatures rising and er conditions, we had a very good new veteran, renew the membership of that older vet out there who may be the birds are starting to turnout and many new faces could be a current member, The Department of down on his or her luck and help them Michigan could achieve its 100% mem- retain that membership. NOW IS bership goal for the year 2012-2013. THE TIME Ladies and gentlemen NOW IS As National Commander Jim Koutz THE TIME. We are currently setting explained, we as a Department are in at 91.5% of our membership goal. charge of our own destiny, our goals What an outstanding job you have done. are attainable and we have the knowl- But, we are nearing the end of the year, edge, leadership and resources to be a and we cannot stop yet. 100% Department We need our Post Membership teams Our membership year is not finished to start taking a closer look at their until thirty (30) days before our membership rosters, and reaching out Department Convention. to those delinquent members. Take the NOW IS THE TIME District Meetings 1st District Meeting 2:00 p.m. ( or as soon as dishes are 5/6/13 * Joe Louis Post #375 cleared if lunch runs long). 6/3/13 Fred Beaudry Post #126 May 11. 2013-Traverse City Post 35. * Memorial Day Observance - Joint Legion Family. 10th District Guests are welcome - those planning to attend and May 5, 2013 Harrison 404 (Memorial) speak should notify the District Adjutant, John June 1, 2013 T.B.A. (incoming cmdr Post) Burke at [email protected] so you may be Lunch at noon, meetings at 1pm all dates. included in the meeting agenda. 11th District 2nd District April 20th 2013 Rapid River 10:30 am May 19, 2013 Lynn C. Weeman 514 Ida SAL 11.30 Memorial Service12:30 12th District Regular Legion 2:00 No Service Officers May 4th, 2013 Post 144 Lanse 11:00 am

3rd District 16th District N/A April 9th, 2013 Allen Park Post 409* May 14th, 2013 Lincoln Park Post 67** 4th District June 11th, 2013 Garden City Post 396 May 5th Bridgman Post 331 Meetings at 7:30pm Dinner served at 12:30 and is $7 per per- * Denotes Service Officer School 6:30PM son. Call post for reservations. ** Memorial Service 6:30PM

5th District 17th District Meetings May 9th, 2013, 7 p.m., Charles A. April 17, 2013 7.pm. 7p.m. K of C hall Conklin Post #28 25300 5 Mile, Redford Post 302 May 15, 2013 7 p.m. K of C Hall 25300 6th District 5 Mile, Redford Post 302 May 5, 2013 Brighton, MI Post 235 June 5, 2013 6:30p.m. Legion Post 32, Service Officer School 11 am- Lunch at Livonia MI 12 – Meeting at 1pm 18th District Meetings 7th District May 19, 2013 Farmington, MI Post #346 May 19, 2013 Port Huron Memorial Service at 1 p.m. Election of Officers at 2 p.m. 8th District June 9, 2013 2p.m. Royal Oak Post #253 May 5th at Laingsburg District 19 9th District Spring Conference, Sunday, March 10, Executive Board Noon, Past 2013 Elk Rapids Cmdrs./Service Officer Info 12:30 p.m., Convention, Saturday, May 18, 2013 Lunch 1:00 p.m., General Membership Boyne City 212 N. Verlinden Ave, Ste. B, Lansing, MI 48915 New Phone: (517) 267-8809 SECTION TWO AUXILIAIRE Page 5 April/May 2013 From the Desk of the President 2012 - 2013 Department President, Mary Anne Yuncker Mutual Helpfulness Every time we with cards and calls to express our a united effort of the Legion family ties throughout her years of member- come together as an concern. But are we always helpful to for our veterans and their cause. ship. Please welcome Miranda into Auxiliary, we recite everyone? We don’t pledge “selective There has been a change in the the office. Take a minute to introduce our Pre-amble as helpfulness”. We claim to devote our- Department Office. Sandy Vandlen is yourselves to her. She’s looking for- part of our opening selves to helping all our fellow mem- no longer employed by the American ward to making your acquaintance. formalities. Some bers, to make sure that we are support- Legion Auxiliary, Department of We are very fortunate to have her with of us know it by rote ive of all our membership. If indeed, Michigan. We will miss her and wish us. memory. The words we do serve all of our fellow members her the best in her future endeavors. In Until I see you at Convention, keep come automatically, almost thought- with care, concern and respect, help- her place we have a new Office on doing the great work you are doing lessly, as we recite the well-known ing them to be the best Auxiliaries Membership Clerk. Her name is for our veterans, always remember- phrases. Others of us read or stumble, they can be,we will be the kind of Miranda Ettinger. She is 26 years old ing, in the spirit of service not self, to relying on those around us to keep organization others will be draw to. and the mother of two beautiful girls, truly work toward mutual helpfulness. our place. The phrase we say last is the There will be no place for criticism, Isabelle and Arianna. She one that has caught my attention late- disparaging remarks, exclusion or graduated from Olivet ly. We recite, “To consecrate and unfriendliness. These behaviors have High school in June of sanctify our association by our devo- no part in mutual helpfulness. Let’s 2004 and is currently tion to mutual helpfulness”. Let’s look work to make the American Legion attending Kellogg at this pledge more carefully. To sanc- Auxiliary an association that truly cares Community College, pur- tify means to make holy or free from for its members and only wants the suing a degree in Medical sin. We promise to make our gather- best in all of us. Administration. She is a ings blameless by our devotion. Just a few notes: make your reser- very energetic and outgo- Devotion means a deep loyalty or vation now for the Summer ing individual who loves dedication. So how are we sancti- Convention. The accommodations at to meet new people and fied? It’s by our heartfelt dedication to Sault Ste. Marie are beautiful. The experience new things. mutual helpfulness. Mutual means Secretary of State, Ruth Johnson will be She is a proud member of for one another. The goal here is to be the keynote speaker for the American the American Legion helpful to one another. In the Auxiliary Legion. The auxiliary is adjusting our Auxiliary Unit #42 for the we are good at being helpful. We schedule to allow more members to past 20 years and has serve our veterans and their families attend her program. The Commanders enjoyed helping out in the tirelessly. When one of our members and I would love to see a large crowd Bingo kitchen, veteran’s National President Peggy Thomas; National Commander Jimmy Koutz; is ill or grieving, we are right there represented to welcome her and show dinners and other activi- Department President, Mary Anne Yuncker.

Bonnie Olson, Secretary-Treasurer Updates on Department HELP WANTED We are looking for members to be on Wherever you go, no matter what the weather, always bring our Department of Michigan commit- your own sunshine. -Anthony D’Angelo tees. What programs interest you? Do you have the passion to work our pro- 1. Girls State—June 16-22, Michigan 4. National Auxiliary Commemorative Buttons are available grams? State University. Reservation Fee: from the website. Have your favorite veteran’s picture put $325.00. Application Fee: $10.00. WE on a button to wear proudly to events. Any member in good standing can NEED GIRLS…if you know of a current Junior in high 5. As of March 25, 2013, the department membership apply. Check our website www.micha- school who would like to meet new people, get an national percentage is 88.69%. Department has already laux.org for a brief description of all educational experience, and have a great time, have exceeded the third national milestone of 85% due on Department committees. There are a them go on line www.michalaux.org and look into May 17th. GET IN YOUR DUES so we can get our limited number of positions, so please Girls State. 100% department goal! apply with all of your qualifications, 2. Department Convention—June 27-30—Sault Ste. Marie, 6. Mandatory Dues MUST BE PAID by May 27, 2013 for the committees that you are interested Kewadin Casino Hotel & Convention Center. Registration units to be eligible to vote at Department Convention. Fee: $15.00—ALL attendees must register. Check the 7. 2013-14 Unit Data Forms are now due—send in as in and, all of your contact information. April Unit Mailing for a form—or on line. soon as possible to have your correct dues rate for the Please include the Unit and District 3. Poppy Days—May 17-18-19. Forms are available from 2014 Membership Cards. from which you belong. Send your department or on-line. Orders received AFTER April 8. 2013-14 Unit Officers Lists are now due—2014 information to sandrasnyder10@com- 15 to department will be accepted based on poppy Membership Cards WILL NOT be disbursed to units cast.net preferably by April 15. availability. who DO NOT have their current Officers List on file. 6 | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | April/May 2013 | www.michalaux.org Susan Verville, Department Chaplain VOLUNTEERING DO NOT WITHHOLD GOOD FROM THOSE WHO DESERVE IT, WHEN IT IS IN YOUR POWER TO ACT. PROVERBS 3:27.

As American Legion Auxiliary members, we ence everyday, we only need to try. April is The Volunteer does what they can. belong to the largest women’s patriotic service Children and Youth month. Volunteer your To ease the suffering of our Veterans, organization. We were started by volunteers services in some way to help them in school or They are our sisters, our brothers and our chil- who wanted to help support the American at home. Remember in May, many Units will be dren. Legion during war time and after. If it was not doing Poppy Days or holding a Memorial Day For all the good that you have done, for those volunteers, we would not be who we program. See if Volunteers are needed at the The gratitude we feel is truly second to none. are today. As volunteers we give assistance our Post or your Unit for these programs or any We want to THANK YOU for being an Auxiliary service men and women, our Veterans, their other programs. Remember that we are a vol- Volunteer. families and our community. We volunteer our unteer organization. services to help promote and improve the qual- PRAYER: ity of life for our Veterans and their families. Just A quote by Anne Frank: NO ONE HAS EVER Father, help us to become more helpful and giv- like in your own community, our Auxiliary BECOME POOR BY GIVING. ing as volunteers. Let us be willing to make a members are volunteering at Medical Facilities, difference in someone’s life. Let us help our nursing homes, schools, shelters, at the Post VOLUNTEERS enlisted service men and women by volunteer- and Unit levels. We help our youth with edu- It takes a special person to be a volunteer. ing our time and service to their families and our cation, support and understanding. We help to You give of your time and talents, country. We are always looking for more develop social skills that are needed to main- You are so generous and kind. Volunteers. Remember that ONE VOLUNTEER tain their self-worth and respect. We serve will- We want you to know how much we appreci- can only do what they can, but that many VOL- ingly without pay. What we gain as members, ate you, UNTEERS can do so much more for the good as volunteers, is that we can make a differ- Not just today, but all through the year. of our organization. TIME TO GET THE JOB DONE FOR MEMBERSHIP!!!! Sherry Losinski, Lower Northern hard to engage in new ways but in the long run May 10th is our next target date and we should Membership Chairman it will all work out for the best. be at 85% for the department. By June 30th we Please promote the American Legion want to “reach the sky” and be at 100%. So, The “Sky’s the Limit for Our Veterans” as we Auxiliary’s motto of “Service Not Self” to don’t wait to send in your dues even if you only all can attest to, but also remember that mem- enhance a positive environment during meet- have one or two to forward to Department. bership is every ones job, not just your chair- ings and activities. Time is of the essence at this point!!!! man. Remember to let potential members know There are still several units that have not paid Therefore, all you bright shining stars out there, what our organization is all about and the won- their Department Mandatory Dues – these must please do YOUR part in retaining and recruiting. derful things we do for our veterans and our be paid in order to vote if necessary at meetings. Be a mentor – a person who is willing to give her community. Contact your Department Membership time to explain the policies and procedures of I have attended several District meetings Chairman or Area Membership Chairman if the American Legion Auxiliary. Always pro- explaining that our units should dispose of all you need a copy of these dues in order to get vide encouragement and guidance along with old forms and use the most current forms sup- them paid. Department Headquarters is also enthusiasm about teaching others. Everyone plied by Department. I know that it’s always always there to help. can mentor!!!!!!!!!!!!!

PAYING HONOR TO OUR HERO’S THE AMERICAN LEGION THE AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY THE SONS OF THE AMERICAN LEGION THE FIFTH DISTRICT AMERICAN LEGION POSTS, THE AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY AND THE AMERICAN LEGION S.A.L. UNITS, WILL BE HOLDING A JOINT MEMORIAL BANQUET AND SERVICE TO HONOR ALL THE VETERANS, BELONGING TO THE AMERICAN LEGION, FROM THE FIFTH DISTRICT GREATER GRAND RAPIDS AREA ON MAY 11, 201 3 AT THE AMERICAN LEGION GLEN HILL POST # 287 IN CEDAR SPRINGS, MI. THIS SERVICE IS IN HONOR OF ALL THE VETERANS THAT HAVE DIED DURING THE YEAR OF 2012 -2013. TICKETS ARE $12.OO each SOCIAL HOUR WILL BEGIN AT 5:00 P.M. WITH DINNER AT 5:30 AND THE SERVICE FOLLOWING. ALL FAMILY MEMBERS AND FRIENDS ARE INVITED TO ATTEND. PLEASE CALL YOUR AMERICAN LEGION POSTS FOR AVAILABILITY OF TICKETS. WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | April/May 2013 | 7 FREE OF CHARGE TO ALL VETERANS WHO SIGN UP ANNUAL VETERANS FISHING TOURNAMENT TO BE HELD Do you love to fish? Want to go fishing begins with a shotgun start at the River Band of Ottawa Indians and Little or e-mail him at [email protected] or on Lake Michigan? Sign Up Today Manistee Pier heads. River Casino and Resort formed a com- Major Rick Briggs at 810 229-5880 or e- The concept for a charity fishing tour- mittee and the fishing tournament began. mail Rick at [email protected] The 4th annual Tight Lines for Troops nament began with Manistee County Donations from this event benefit The Veterans can obtain an application on Charity Fishing Tournament will be held Charter Captain Bob Guenthardt, a Brain Injury Association of Michigan line and priority is given to Purple Heart in Manistee, Michigan. The event will proud Army Veteran. (BIAMI), the Paralyzed Veterans of Recipients, Disabled Veterans, and begin on Friday evening May 17, 2013 “I wanted to show our appreciation to America, and The Manistee County POW’s. Veterans pay no charter fees, at Seng’s Marina with a 6:00 P.M. members of the military for their dedi- Veterans Endowment Fund. entry fees or banquet fees. mandatory dinner meeting for all boat cation and sacrifice which provided the Individuals wishing to make dona- captains and Tight Lines participants in foundation,” for the event stated tions, sponsorship opportunities, volun- For more information: both the boat and shore division. On Guenthardt. teering or have additional questions can www.tightlinesfortroops Saturday May 18, 2013 the tournament Bob along with help from the Little contact Bob Guenthardt at 231 723-3282 www.biami.org 11TH DISTRICT Blood, Eye, & George Maciejewski, Jr. and the services they are entitled. 11th Dist Cmdr. Elections are forthcoming...please sup- Vital Organ Report Friendly reminder...district meeting at port the Election Committee's recom- donated 10 or more gallons of blood Rapid River Post #301 on 20 APR 2013, mendation...or add someone you feel By Lavern Spolarich, Chairman and are a member of the Legion, thank you for hosting. Also, coming would be effective. My personal apolo- At the winter meeting held in Flint Auxiliary, or SAL to let me know so that soon annual reports, CPR and Service gy for not being able to fulfill my obliga- in February, I again had the honor of you can receive the appropriate level of Officer. Start gathering your informa- tion in leadership as I had hoped, the presenting to another deserving recognition at a Legion function. These tion, no matter what the Post did...or unforeseen takes its toll. Thank you Legionnaire an award for his giving of awards also apply to those who are didn't do...the numbers submitted count. Stan Kennedy for stepping up and filling blood and was assisted by National platelet donors. The Department uses ALL information in during my absence. Looking forward Commander Jim Koutz. Please make sure that all blood dona- to support it's requests to aid Veterans to oncoming conferences and conven- I would like to remind everyone that tions are recorded on the annual con- if you are a blood donor and have solidated report 16TH DISTRICT Ronald Runyan, that they don’t know what they can do to 16th Dist. Commander help or be a part of our organization. Commander Brown, members of the There are many ways you can help and state and district it brings me great pleas- believe me, we could all use it. Get one ure to report great things from the mighty or two of you and visit your local business 16th district. We have survived snow- and see if they would allow you to recruit pocolypse 2013, membership numbers at there site. What better way to find the are up and we are glad to report there is younger vets then to go out and find no need for a Emergency Financial them. Sitting in the post or at home is not Manager here! On a serious note, I am going to get them, please help your post. truly happy to say that I am very proud of To the post in the 16th, please remem- my fellow members in the district on their ber to get your CPR’s done this year. If efforts to further the goals of The you need help please contact me at the American Legion. Our post have new district meetings or call. Also, remember tools and ideas to gain members in the Boys State and Student Trooper is com- post, more and more veterans are bene- ing up soon. Please help a young person fiting from the work put in from the serv- by supporting them or in the least provid- ice officers and since the economy is bet- ing them the information to attend. It ter post are doing much better. gives me great pleasure to let you know Recently I heard the future of our about a young man from Wyandotte, that organization is in the hands of our was supported by Post 217, who went to younger veterans. I DISAGREE! Ok, to Boys State in 2012. This young man was some degree the future of our organiza- just accepted to West Point as a cadet in tion will depend on the younger vet join- fall 2013. This is partly due to his ability ing our ranks. However , I believe it is the to attend Boys State and the recognition older veteran that determines our future. West Point gives to our program. This is How is this you ask? Well as I see it, the one example that our programs make a older veteran has many more years of difference in our community and young knowledge, experience and most impor- peoples lives! tantly TIME! The time aspect is some- Lastly, as the year wraps up, I want to thing the 20-50 year old veteran can not thank the Legion Family in the 16th dis- spare much of since they are working, trict. It is not the commander alone who raising families and furthering their edu- makes this all work, but the work from cation. Yes, you the older veteran is in many. I hope for a great convention in high demand by your post. I have heard June in Sault Ste Marie and look forward while recruiting from some older members to some hospitality with you all. 8 | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | April/May 2013 | WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG PROPER FLAG DISPLAY HISTORY Mark Sutton, Public Relations Director Why is the US Navy after the Marines? DOD then the USCG flag moves to 4th place before the Air Force. This happened during The Navy, yes in October 1775 the conti- WWI and WWII, but returned to the nental congress authorized the purchase of 2 Transportation Department immediately after ships with guns and canons; however, as the the wars. Navy's own history says the US Navy was disbanded in 1783, all ships were sold by Where are the Merchant Mariners? Many Legionnaires commented and ques- 1785, it no longer existed. Over the years Merchant Mariners are not a “military serv- tioned the order in which the Military that followed it had been debated on whether ice” organization. Only during WWII when Branches of Service flags should be dis- the United States should have a navy and in the maritime industry was “nationalized” did played. (Page 8 March 2013 edition). Some 1794 the US Congress approved the creation the merchant marines receive military status. say that the order is determined by the estab- of the Department of the US Navy. The Yes they have a long history of engaging in lishment of the branch of service in question. Department of the Navy has tried to have the battle all the way back to the revolutionary Which for the most part that is true, however, DOD recognize their October 1775 date as war, but they did so as “privateers” as “patri- in the case of the US Navy and Coast Guard; the original date, but they have not been suc- ots”. Only those students who are accepted that depends on what date you refer to? cessful. This moves them to 3rd on the list. to attend the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy are required to serve in the naval reserves or Who determines the order of display? Why is the US Coast Guard 5th? in another branch of service; because they As in anything that happens in the military There are 2 items to remember about the earn a degree at the academy they are com- there is bound to be a ruling or directive that USCG. 1. The USCG was established in missioned officers. Those who attend private dictates the proper process for anything we 1915, by combining the Revenue Cutter schools of maritime are not required to serve do. In this case it happens to be Department Service and the Lighthouse service together. in the military. The United States cannot of the Defense Directive 1005.8 which says The USCG traces its roots back to 1790 move materials, troops, and supplies without the proper lineup is as follows: when those 2 services were established but the Mariners, but they are not a branch of the their official date according to the DOD is US Military. 1. Army 1915. 2. The USCG, although designated a 2. Marines “Armed Service” in 1915, is not governed If you have a question about something 3. Navy under the Department of Defense. They cur- you see concerning US Military history, 4. Air Force rently fall under Department of Homeland please let me know I would be happy to do 5. Coast Guard Security. Note: IF they are brought under the the research and report back. VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System 1st VA in Michigan to use Da Vinci Surgical Technology Surgeons at the VA Ann Arbor Healthcare decreases their length of stay in the facility, and robotic arms working inside the patient’s body. System (VAAAHS) recently performed the health- reduces the time for urinary continence to return. In the future, the robot will also be utilized for care system’s first robotic radical prostatectomy “Using this minimally-invasive technique, our partial nephrectomies and cystectomies within using Da Vinci Technology. urologists have already been performing some of Urology Service. General surgery will be the next The Da Vinci robot uses the most advanced tech- our most common surgical procedures, such as service to utilize the robot’s capabilities. Eventually, nology available, enabling our surgeons to per- prostate, partial kidney, and bladder removal, for robotic use will reach into otolaryngological and tho- form some of the most complex operations through several years at the University of Michigan,” said racic procedures as well. a few tiny incisions, while increasing surgeons' Dr. Jeffrey Montgomery, Chief, Urology Section at vision, precision, dexterity and control. VAAAHS. “Our Veterans will now receive their sur- “This investment in advanced surgical technol- gical care from experienced leaders in our field. ogy demonstrates VA’s commitment to providing Some of the other advantages our patients will high quality, patient-centered specialty care in urol- experience include decreased blood loss, less post- ogy and other surgical specialties,” said Dr. Ted operative pain, and shorter hospital stays. Our Skolarus, staff urologist at VAAAHS. surgeons will be able to take advantage of improved The Da Vinci robot consists of a console where operative ergonomics, magnified vision, and more the surgeon sits, an adjustable bed where the patient precise dissection. Overall, this is a win-win situ- lays, four interactive robotic arms, and a high-def- ation for our Veterans and our surgeons.” inition 3D vision System. The Da Vinci adaptive, state-of-the-art technol- Utilizing the robot to perform radical prostate- ogy allows the surgeon’s hand motions to be trans- ctomies decreases Veterans’ pain postoperatively, lated into precise movements spread to the four 2013 SONS OF THE AMERICAN LEGION DETACHMENT OF MICHIGAN State Convention June 7,8, & 9th, 2013 in Grand Haven Michigan registration and AD information available at www.michiganlegion.org/sons WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | April/May 2013 | 9 The Only Written Post Voting Requirements Non-compliance with the 10-day delegate/alternate information require- Official Call ment below will negate a post’s vote at Department Convention to the 95th Annual State Convention VOTING STRENGTH IS DETERMINED BY MEMBERSHIP TOTAL’S AS American Legion, Department of OF MAY 29th, 2012 (last year’s membership number) Michigan 10 Day’s Prior to the Opening of Department Convention

June 27th – June 30th, 2013 Thomas Brown Each Post Adjutant must send the completed Post Delegate Form, Kewadin Casino Hotel which will be mail to each Post Adjutant’s home address in April, into State Commander Department Headquarters by 5:00 p.m., Tuesday June 18th,2013. Once Saulte Saint Marie, Michigan department receives the signed post delegate form, department will mail the appropriate number of post delegate cards to each Post Adjutant’s Purpose: To receive Department Officers’ annual reports, consider Department home address. The form must include each person’s membership card Constitution and By-Laws amendments, elect Department Officers and conduct any number, full name, mailing address, and be signed by either the Post other business brought to the convention. Only the Committees and Chairpersons Commander or Adjutant. Forms can be mailed, faxed to 517-371-2401, attn: Barbara Money, or emailed to her attention only at this email listed below are called to officially participate in the Convention. address: [email protected]. A form will not be accepted at any other department email address nor accepted if it lacks the Post Registrations • Registration fee of $15 will be charged to all delegates, alternates Commander or Adjutant Signature. and guests. Representation – Article V, Section 1 (c) • Delegates Contest Supervisory • Completed registration forms filed at Department Representation in the annual Convention shall be by Delegates and Alternates, Headquarters June 1st, 2013 duly elected by Posts of the Department and, in addition thereto, the Past Department Commanders and the members of the Department Executive Committee, with the Department Exec. Cmte Meeting: Thursday June 27th, 2013, 5:00 exception of the Department Adjutant. Each of the above Delegates shall p.m. e be entitled to one vote. Each Post having 15 or more paid up members Se m at the Department Headquarters 30 days prior to the opening date For Opening Session: Friday June 28th, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. ng of the PRECEDING year’s Convention shall have representation at usi 9 the annual Convention on the basis of one Delegate for such Post, who Ho ge 1 Pa shall be the newly elected Commander and one additional Delegate for each Subsequent Convention Sessions: Saturday, June 29th, 2013, 9:00 on 50 members or major fraction thereof. Each Post represented at the a.m. & Sunday, June 30th, 2013, 10:00 a.m Department Convention is entitled to cast the voting strength of its Post, provid- ed all annual dues and debts to the District of which it is a part and the Department Called Department Committee Meetings: Thursday, June 27th, 2013 are paid. (TBA – see schedule at www.michiganlegion.org) Delegates – Article IV, Section 4 (j) j. In addition to the newly elected Post • Finance/Personnel Commander, each Post shall select one Delegate for each 50 paid-up members, or • Children & Youth, Legislative, Membership, Permanent Time and Place major fraction thereof, to represent such Post at the annual Convention. Each Post • Americanism, Economic, Public Relations, Reconnect, and VAVS/VHVS shall select an alternate for each Delegate chosen. The Delegates and Alternates shall • Contest Supervisory, Internal Affairs, Post Development, and VA&R be chosen by each Post from among its own members in good standing. The names of all Delegates and Alternates shall be certified to the Department Adjutant at least Called Department Committee Chairmen: Representing Department 10 days before the opening date of the annual Convention. Committees not called to convention: Baseball, Boys State, Education & Scholarship, Delegate Determination Formula: Leadership College, and National Security & Foreign Relations 15-25 members …... 1 delegate Convention Cmte Meetings: Friday June 28th, 2013, 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m 26-75 members …... 2 delegates 76-125 members …. 3 delegates Convention Committees are comprised of one person per district. Each Delegation 126-175 members… 4 delegates Chairman will name the members to serve on the Convention Committees and cer- 176-225 members .. 5 delegates tify that list to the Department Adjutant ten (10) (June 18th, 2013)days prior to the 226-275 members .. 6 delegates Department Convention. 276-325 members .. 7 delegates 326-375 members .. 8 delegates 376-425 members .. 9 delegates Americanism & Community Service (includes Education & Scholarship, Boys State, Law and Order, Scouting) – Children & Youth, Constitution & Credentials • Delegates will receive an identification badge upon registering Bylaws, Credentials, Economic, Finance, Legislative, Membership, with the Convention Corporation on-site. National Security & Foreign Relations, Post Development, Public Election of Vice Commanders – Article VI, Section 3 (a) • Elective Relations, Reconnect, Rules, Veteran Affairs & Rehabilitation and Department Officers shall be chosen annually at the Department Convention by a VAVS/VHVS roll call vote of the Districts of the Department, with the exception of Five Vice- Commanders, who shall be chosen at the "Zone" Caucuses by the Districts making District Caucuses: Friday, June 28th, 2013, 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. up the "Zone" which that individual Vice Commander is to represent. Each Vice Commander so chosen must be and shall remain a member of a Post within his respec- Zone Caucuses: Friday, June 28th, 2013, 11:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. tive Zone. Election of District Commanders - Article V. Section 3 (c) • Each Joint Memorial Service: Sunday, June 30th , 2013 8:00 a.m. District shall elect its District Commander by vote of the Delegates representing Posts in the said District in attendance at the Annual Department Convention and prior Elections & Adjournment: Sunday June 30th , 2013 to the adjournment thereof or else at a regular District Meeting to be held not less than fifteen (15) days nor more than sixty (60) days prior to the Annual Department The 2014 Department Executive Committee and the 2013 National Convention. Alternates shall be chosen at the same time and place as the District Convention Delegates and Alternates will meet upon convention adjournment. Commanders. 10 | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | April/May 2013 | WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG 2013 PROGRAM WINNERS MICHIGAN SECRETARY OF STATE Teachers of the Year Aaron Argall (Negaunee) ANNOUNCES VETERAN DESIGNATION ON Jody Roman (Zone 1) Patricia Pointer (Mecosta) DRIVERS LICENSES AND STATE ID CARDS Clarenceville School District Victoria Sheridan (Westland) charge papers to prove their service. Christopher Carter (Detroit) It will allow the Department of Lynne Coughlin (Zone 2) Military and Veterans Affairs and coun- Saline School District Brewer Scholarship ty veteran service officers better identify veterans and reach out to them about Christopher Doig (Houghton) available services, she said. Aaron Jenkins, Erick Senkmajer (Zone 3) Brittany Caulder (Kalamazoo) public information officer for the Port Huron Area School District Cassey Glumm (Hastings) Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, said it would provide the depart- Richard Berry (Harper Woods) ment with more complete and up-to- Linda Skodack (Zone 4) date contact information for veterans. Oscoda Area School District Employer of Veterans LANSING — Michigan's secretary of The veteran's identification plan was Award state announced her support Wednesday recently introduced in a bill by lawmak- for establishing special identification cards ers and Johnson said her office will work Matthew Stein (Zone 5) New Page Paper (Large that would give the state's 670,000 mili- with them to see that it is written into law. North Central Area Schools Employer) tary veterans discounts on stores and While Michigan has the nation's 11th hotels and other benefits, part of the highest population of veterans, the state Oratorical Petoskey Plastics, Inc. (Medium administration's larger effort to make the ranks dead last in federal money spent per veterans more aware of resources avail- person on services provided through the Paul Popa (Saline) Employer) able to them. U.S. Veterans Administration, including High School - Saline Ruth Johnson said placing the special- medical treatment and employment assis- Oration “It is Our Duty” S C I Cleaning & Maintenance ized designation on driver's licenses and tance. identification cards would make it easier The new designation is expected Grade – 12th (Small Employer) on veterans, who currently must carry dis- to be available in May of 2014. Sponsor – Hastings Post 45 Employment Service Congratulations Law Officer of the Year Award Julie Bemus Michael “Mick” Albig Jr. 2013 Oratorical Winners Village of Holly, Michigan (LVER) 5 Outstanding young Michigan students arrived at the Gerald R. Ford Police Department Presidential Library in Grand Rapids for this annual event and an opportu- Shaqunda Poole (DVOP) nity to win scholarship money. The winner moves to National for the chance at $18,000 in scholarship awards. Firefighter of the Year Left to Right: Paul Gary Chapman Enhance the Lives of Popa, 1st Place, Auburn Hills Fire Department Disabled Persons Madelyn Rose Mills, Grand Blanc 413 2nd Place, State Commander Tom Wilson Scholarship Brown, Leah Marie Lesli Mickevich (Fountain) Homeless Veterans Bolzman, Bethany Riutta (Houghton) Outreach Award Christopher Benzing, Raquel Randall (Negaunee) Craig Tillman and David Brand, runner ups, and Adrienna Jackson (Jackson) Homeless Veterans Task Force Chairman John Emery Robinson (Grant) Chairman Bradford. 2013 MICHIGAN CANDIDATES

John Skinner - Roger Webster - Ray Moore – Candidate George Dolan - Mitch Louth - Candidate Michael Buda – Candidate NEC Candidate Alternate NEC Candidate State Commander Candidate State State Historian State Sergeant-at-Arms Finance Officer www.michiganlegion.org | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | April/May 2013 | 11 The names of all delegates and alternates shall be certified to the Department Adjutant at least 10 days before the open- ing date of the annual Convention. Our Convention opens on June 28th, and 10 days before is June 18th. Patrick W. Lafferty, State Adjutant “Must Do” Pre-Convention Requirements We are rapidly Department Convention. Therefore, will be sending out each Post their del- Department are paid.” These debts proceeding toward with our State Convention opening on egate strength report the 1st week of must be remitted to the District or our State Conven- Friday, June 28th, all Post Elections must April to the home address of each Post Department by 10:00 a.m. Friday, June tion from June 27 – take place no later than May 28th. All Adjutant. The Post Commander and 28, 2013 in order for a Post to partici- June 30th, 2013 at Post Officers must be elected 30 days Adjutant must then complete the dele- pate in the State Convention election. the Kewadin before the State Convention, but instal- gate form and return it to Department Note: District debts must be remitted to Casino Hotel in Sault Saint Marie, lation of officers can be as late as 45 days Headquarters no later than June 18th. the appropriate District representative, Michigan. (Please see “convention call” after the close of the State convention. No delegate forms will be accepted at and Department Debts must be remit- and housing form this section) or at Department after the June 18th date. ted to our Department Assistant to www.michiganlegion.org, the State (2)When is the membership cut- Delegate forms may be mailed or faxed Finance, Ms. Denise Koets. Headquarters website. off date for Post delegate strength to 517-371-2401 Attn: Barb Money. We Please notice in the “Call” that our at the State Convention? Answer: will also accept emails, but only to this (5) What is the rule with regard to Department Standing Committees do Each Post having 15 or more paid-up email address: member@michiganle- when the Districts have to have not all meet at 2:00 pm. June 27th. We members at Department Headquarters gion.org - Article IV, Section 4(j) reads their elections? Answer: Article V, have divided the committee meetings 30 days prior to the opening date of as follows. Each Post shall select an alter- Section 3(c) Each District shall elect its into different groups. See schedule at the prior year’s Convention shall have nate for each delegate chosen. Each District Commander by vote of the del- www.michiganlegion.org. This sched- representation at the annual Convention Post from among its own members in egates representing Posts in said District ule allows individual Legionnaires to on the basis of one (1) delegate for such good standing shall choose the dele- in attendance at the annual Department attend more than one committee meet- Post, who shall be the newly elected gates and alternates. The names of all Convention and prior to the adjourn- ing. One exception is the Commander and one additional dele- delegates and alternates shall be certified ment thereof, or else at a regular District Finance/Personnel Committee, which gate for each 50 members or major frac- to the Department Adjutant at least 10 meeting to be held not less than fifteen will meet as usual on Thursday, June tion thereof. (Please see the explanation days before the opening date of the (15) days nor more than sixty (60) days 27th, 2013 at 9:00 a.m. of the number of delegates authorized Annual Convention. Our Convention prior to the annual Department based on your Post membership in the opens on June 28th, 10 days is June Convention. Therefore, I suggest all The official State Convention Call Official Call under Article V, Section 18th. District elections be held no later than always causes some confusion regarding 1(c).) This year’s post delegate strength June 13th this year. timetables within our posts and districts. will be based on your post membership (4) Can a Post be denied its vote I want to take this opportunity to address recorded at Department Headquarters for any reason at the State I certainly appreciate all the cooper- some of the most frequently asked ques- at 5:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 29th, 2012. Convention if such Post is present ation and assistance Department has tions. at the State Convention? always received in preparing for our (3) When will the Post receive its Answer: Yes, Article V, Section 1c states annual State Convention. I look for- (1)When should the post hold its delegate cards and who will in part, “…Each Post represented at ward to seeing all of you in Sault Saint annual election of officers? Answer: receive them? Answer: Due to our the State Convention is entitled to cast Marie in June. All posts shall hold elections of post Constitutional change in our Post dele- the voting strength of its post, provided officers not less than 30 days nor more gate strength procedures (using 2012 all annual dues and debts to the District, Take care! than 120 days prior to the annual year’s delegate strength) Department of which it is a part, and the Pat Nexstar Legacy Foundation Announces Scholarship Opportunities for Veterans MINNEAPOLIS, MN – March 4, well-being of families across the Benishek, MI, to discuss the continu- arships is The Frank Blau Jr. Award 2013 – The Nexstar Legacy country providing quality air, clean ing lack of skilled technicians in the for $7,000. Other scholarships Foundation today announced its new water and safe homes, and this PHCE trades. include: The Barnett Scholarship for Troops to Trades: Veterans’ industry is currently facing a short- The Nexstar Legacy Foundation $5,000; The George Brazil Professional Training Program age of qualified technicians. In addi- also awards scholarships to non-mil- Scholarship for $5,000; and $10,000 scholarships. Qualified military veter- tion, the need for military veterans itary individuals planning to manage in scholarships awarded specifically ans interested in entering, or current- for solid careers in the civilian sector or operate a business in this industry to technicians in honor of John ly working in, the plumbing, heating is high. The White House or who are currently working toward MacGregor. & cooling, and/or electrical (PHCE) announced that 34,000 troops are a technical degree. First round appli- To apply for any of the open schol- service industry as technicians can expected to return to the US in 2013. cations for these scholarships will be arships, visit http://nexstarfounda- apply through November 1, 2013. The foundation’s scholarships accepted through April 12, 2013, with tion.org/scholarships/. The foundation’s goal is to provide address these two vital needs. winners expected to be announced The Nexstar Legacy Foundation is 35 scholarships, including $10,000 in To further the goals of this pro- in June 2013. A second round of dedicated to attracting talented indi- scholarships in honor of Jim gram, the foundation met with the scholarships for technicians only will viduals to the heating, air condition- (Buddha) Potts. American Legion’s Economic open on May 15, 2013. ing, plumbing and electrical indus- The importance of supporting Commission on February 25th 2013 Since its formation in November tries, by inspiring these people to those interested in becoming trained to discuss how they could work 2005, the Nexstar Legacy discover the prestige, earning power technicians in the PHCE service together to promote this job assis- Foundation has awarded more than and stability of careers in these industry is underlined by the increas- tance to military veterans. The foun- 40 scholarships totaling $150,000 to fields. The foundation accomplishes ing average age of technicians cur- dation also met with the staff of state train and educate technicians, man- this by being the leading resource for rently working in the field. The PHCE representatives Michelle Bachmann, agers and owners within the PHCE information on careers and training, industry is vital to the health and MN, John Tierney, MA, and Dan industry. The largest of these schol- as well as a source of financial aid. 12 | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | 2013 Michigan Contact Your Representative Congressional Delegation National Legislative Priorities for the 113th Congress Protecting Veterans and DOD more carefully tailored law to crim- fairly through federal procure- Senator Carl Levin 269 Russell Senate Office Building from the harmful cuts imposed inalize profiting from lies about ment. The American Legion calls Washington DC 20510 through sequestration military service. The American on Congress to ensure that the 202.224.6221 The American Legion recognizes Legion supports legislation to federal government makes its 3% Senator Debbie Stabenow and supports the need for a fiscal- restore the criminality of lying procurement goal for the first time 133 Hart Senate Office Building ly responsible government, and about military service and in history, and demands that VA Washington DC 20510 looks forward to working with the received decorations address and repair the current 202.224.4822 new Congress to develop deficit (HR258/S210). small business verification pro- Representative Dan Benishek reducing strategies that do not gram. 514 Cannon House Office Building Washington DC 20515 degrade the nation’s ability to Claims Backlog 202.225.4735 defend itself, or further assault the America’s veterans deserve better End Veteran Homelessness The American Legion strongly Representative Bill Huizenga earned benefits currently being than a disability claims system 1217 Longworth House Office Building received by our nation’s military mired in delays and backlogs, supports the Administration’s goal Washington DC 20515 veterans (HR55). where over 69% of claims are of eliminating veterans homeless- 202.226.0779 delayed over VA’s target of 125 ness by 2015 and calls on Representative Justin Amash Military Sexual Trauma days to complete. The American Congress to pledge whatever 114 Cannon House Office Building The American Legion encourages Legion believes VA can only resources are necessary to Washington DC 20515 accomplish this goal, to include 202.225.3831 Congress to pass legislation in change the bureaucratic culture order to ensure reporting, track- causing these delays by imple- medical, rehabilitative and Representative Dave Camp employment assistance to home- 341 Cannon House Office Building ing, and actions taken upon inci- menting a work credit system that Washington DC 20515 dents of sexual assaults at all VA places as much incentive on get- less veterans and their families 202.225.3561 facilities. Furthermore, The ting a claim done right the first (S62/HR385). American Legion urges the DOD time as it does on the raw volume Representative Dan Kildee Quality Education through Post 2107 Rayburn House Office Building to improve their investigation and of claims processed. 9/11 GI Bill Washington DC 20515 prosecution of reported cases of 202.225.3611 As one of the founding authors of Military Sexual Trauma. The Disabled Veterans Tax/Widows the original GI Bill, The American Representative Fred Upton underreporting of MST in the mili- Tax 2183 Rayburn House Office Building Legion wants to protect our veter- tary must be examined and DOD VA disability compensation should Washington DC 20515 ans with oversight that include 202.225.3761 must permanently maintain the not be offset from military retired provisions to evaluate post-sec- records necessary for victims to pay regardless of the VA rating Representative Tim Walberg ondary education institutions on prove service connection for any percentage, nor should VA sur- 418 Cannon House Office Building quality factors such as accredita- Washington DC 20515 later disabilities resulting from vivor benefits (DIC) from military tion, transferability, cost, gradua- 202.225.6276 events in service. Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) annu- tion rates, and acceptance in the Representative Mike Rogers ities. The American Legion sup- job market. State Approving 133 Cannon House Office Building Oppose any further increases ports legislation that would com- Washington DC 20515 Agencies should be returned their in TRICARE fees, including pletely repeal these unjust offsets 202.225.4872 original power to protect the GI Bill prescription drug fees (HR333/HR303/HR32). Representative Gary Peters along with adequate funding to The American Legion stands 1609 Longworth House Office Building execute their mandate. Student- Washington DC 20515 strong against those who would DOL-VETS and TAP veterans should be allowed in- 202.225.5802 dilute the promises made in the The VETS program should be state tuition rates regardless of contract with those who serve in kept in its rightful place within Representative Candice Miller residency status (HR357/S257). 1034 Longworth House Office Building our nation’s defense. We strongly DOL. DVOPs and LVERs should Washington DC 20515 202.225.2106 oppose any proposed degradation be solely focused on getting veter- Military to Civilian of the health care promised to an’s jobs. Congress has already Representative Kerry Bentivolio Credentialing 226 Cannon House Office Building retired service members when passed legislation to improve the DOD spends a lot of money train- Washington DC 20515 they enlisted through increases in Transition Assistance Program, ing our military. The skills learned 202.225.8171 fees for TRICARE For Life, but DOD is improperly executing need to directly translate to their Representative Sander Levin increases in pharmacy co-pays or it. The America Legion looks for- civilian equivalent, and seamless 1236 Longworth House Office Building any further breaches of the con- ward to working with Congress to certification is long overdue. Washington DC 20515 tract of trust between this nation ensure that TAP offers the servic- 202.225.4961 and those who have defended it. es and information necessary for The American Flag Representative John Conyers Jr. transitioning service members The American Legion remains 2426 Rayburn House Office Building Washington DC 20515 Stolen Valor Act and veterans. committed to protecting Old Glory, 202.225.5126 In United States v. Alvarez the and continues to support legisla- Representative John Dingell Supreme Court ruled the 2005 Small Business Verification tion that safeguards our nation’s 2328 Rayburn House Office Building Stolen Valor Act was unconstitu- Businesses owned by veterans flag from physical desecration Washington DC 20515 tional, yet left the door open for a have earned the right to compete (HJRES19). 202.225.4071 www.michiganlegion.org | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | April/May 2013 | 13 REDUCTION “We propose to reduce…..” By Bob Rasche, Department Veteran eran is given a warning of the proposed veteran’s representative helps to present the five years or more, the DVA may not Service Officer action, which, must provide adequate rea- evidence at the hearing. Following the hear- reduce the veteran’s rating based on one One word that a service connected vet- sons for the proposed reduction. The vet- ing, the DVA will render a rating decision to examination, unless all the evidence of eran will hopefully never have to contend eran must be given a sixty day period to pro- notify the veteran of their decision. record shows substantial improvement. with is the word “reduction”. In the world vide evidence to show why the DVA should If the outcome of the decision is not favor- The exam must be at least as full and of the Department of Veteran Affairs (DVA) not take the proposed action. Upon com- able, the veteran should work with their complete as the exam upon which the rating decisions, reduction is a word that pletion of the 60 day due process period, VA representative to determine if any further previous rating was awarded. (38 CFR appears occasionally. Disabilities, unfor- reviews all of the evidence and a final deci- action should be taken. The decision can be 3.344(a) tunately, get worse most of the time, but in sion is made. If the new evidence does not appealed within 1 year of the date on the (4) In cases of ratings in effect less than 5 reality, sometimes healing takes place, and refute the evidence upon which the DVA notification letter. Once a decision has been years, the DVA must find evidence of the disability improves. If The DVA proposed to reduce the rating, the veteran rendered, the DVA will implement their improvement in the level of disability. receives evidence showing a disability has will likely receive a rating decision reducing decision. The filing of an appeal does not The evidence must show there has been improved, they have a responsibility to act his or her previous evaluation. Veterans do stop the implementation of the decision. some improvement in the veteran’s abil- on the evidence. I don’t want to paint the not need to address this problem on their On appeal the burden of proof is then on ity to live and work. The rating spe- wrong picture here; the DVA is not out to own. The American Legion has trained, the veteran to show why the reduction cialist must review the entire history of take away benefits. They are not out there accredited Veteran Service Officers to assist should not have been taken. It is wise to the disability, and the reduction must be looking for a way to reduce someone, but it you who are knowledgeable of VA laws work hard to obtain the necessary evidence based upon a thorough current exami- does happen, and when it happen the vet- and trained in the DVA judicial processes. to avoid a reduction, so an appeal is not nation. The veteran is entitled to the eran needs to know what to do. Sometimes If you do not have representation or if you necessary. If the veteran later wins on benefit of the doubt. The veteran there- a reduction is warranted, and the DVA is are being represented by the American appeal and the reduction action is reversed, fore needs to work with a representa- acting properly. In other cases reduction Legion, contact an accredited Service it is generally restored back to the date of the tive who can provide proper counsel and can be an improper action, and the veter- Officer for assistance. Don’t wait for the reduction. guidance. Old evidence is useful from a an needs to respond or suffer the conse- end of the 60 day due process period. I rec- Veterans are encouraged to report any history standpoint, but don’t send that to quences. This article is written to let you ommend you seek help as soon as possible. address changes so the DVA has their cur- the DVA as evidence to refute a pro- know how to proceed if you receive a DVA In fact, in most proposed reduction cases, rent address. If VA issues a notice to report posed reduction. Current evidence is letter stating, “We propose to reduce it is recommended the veteran choose a for an examination or a proposed reduction, absolutely necessary, and the evidence ______.” pre-determination hearing within 30 days it can easily result in a reduced rating and must show the full extent of the disable- The first thing to recognize is the word of the proposed reduction notice to present a reduced payment. The following regula- ment resulting from your service con- “propose” is not an action. It is designed to evidence to show why the proposed action tions pertain to rating reductions. This is not nected disability. When you see your be a warning. A warning should not be should not be taken. (38 CFR 3.105 (i) meant to be an all inclusive listing of the laws doctor, tell and show your doctor the ignored or taken lightly. The veteran can- Your representative can make this request and regulations, but rather some of the key problems involving functional loss result- not file an appeal, since it is not a decision. for you. regulations. ing from your disability. Don’t just tell It is designed to be a protection; a warning The burden of proof is upon the DVA your doctor about the pain, but tell your to the veteran that VA is planning to reduce to show why the rating should be reduced. (1) A veteran who has been rated at the doctor how your disability limits, hinders, the veteran’s rating evaluation based on the The DVA cannot reduce the veteran’s rat- same evaluation for 20 years, cannot be or prevents you from performing daily latest evidence. ing decision until a hearing has been held reduced, even if the condition has activities and tasks. I may prevent a The law states that a veterans rating and a decision has been made. This allows improved, useless there was fraud used reduction, and may even result in an cannot be reduced without proper notice the veteran to present evidence to show the to obtain the rating initially. (38 CFR increased rating evaluation. and due process. (38 CFR 3.105) The vet- rating decision should not be reduced. The 3.951(b) (2) To reduce a 100 percent rating based on If you need representation, call The Individual Unemployables (IU), the DVA American Legion, VA & R Office. The must demonstrate that actual employa- office can be reached by calling (313) 964- Get Your Team Michigan bility is established by clear and con- 6640. The VA & R Office Director, James vincing evidence. (38 CFR 3.343(c) Topps wants to insure you receive a fair, Shirts & Department (3) If a disability rating has been in effect for just, and equitable decision. Briefcase Today! American Legion Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Great shirts for showing your Michigan Our staff is dedicated to providing the very best veterans’ advocacy to Michigan Veterans and Their families. They can assist with Claims Preparation, Presentation and appeal counsel in Veterans’ benefits services. Assist Legion spirit whether you are working in a booth, attend- you and your Dependents in getting the Benefits that you have earned by your service to your Country ing an event or just running around town! Two styles are available in men's and American Legion Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Mr. James C. Topps, Director woman's: Short sleeve polo or long sleeve jean. It features Patrick V. McNamara Federal Building Room 1210 the Legion Emblem and the phrase 477 Michigan Avenue Detroit, MI 48226 Team Michigan - Working Together. (Available also in Office Phone – (313)-964-6640 or (313)-964-6641 Office Fax (313)-964-5697 Auxiliary and SAL logo by special order.) Cell Phone – (269)-312-2239 - e-mail – James C. Topps Our Department briefcas- Director [email protected] – [email protected] es are available in four col- Monday thru Friday 8:00 am to 4:00 pm ors: Green, Navy, Khaki and Black They are only $20.00 each plus shipping and Erna LaBeau, Director’s Secretary – [email protected] handling. Lannie Thomas, Department Service Officer – [email protected] Robert Rasche, Department Service Officer – [email protected] Tripp Cantwell, Department Service Officer – [email protected] All profits are kept at the Department to promote Legion programs, Gary Garvin, Department Service Officer – [email protected] events and mission. Order form is available on our website at: Chris Smirnes, Department Service Officer – [email protected] www.michiganlegion.org/store Call the Detroit office for sevice officer schedule. 14| MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | April/May 2013 | WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG Service to our Michigan Veterans Time for Thank you for your Service Boys State At the 2013 Legislative Breakfast 3 and other VSO’s hold positions on these Board. PDC F. Gerrit Veldman and Nelson O’Bryan, American Legion Legionnaires were boards. The individuals are appointed PDC Bill Coffey were also presented Dept Boys State Chairman honored for their years of service to the by the Governor for a term of 3 years. with an award and certificate for the veterans in the State of Michigan. The This year our Legionnaires term came to their service on the Board of Managers Once again "The week that State has 2 boards, The Board of an end. NEC/PDC John Skinner was for the State Veteran Homes. The shapes a lifetime" is coming Managers for the 2 State Veteran presented with an award and certificate American Legion Department of upon us at a rapid pace. The Homes and the Michigan Veterans Trust from General Vadnais, for his service Michigan thank you for your service to Boys State camp will take place Fund Board. The American Legion on the Michigan Veterans Trust Fund our Michigan Veterans. at Northwood University in Left: PDC F. Gerrit Midland, Michigan on June 16- Veldman Right: PDC 22. We have roughly two months Bill Coffey Below: to recruit boys and funds for NEC/PDC John Skinner 2013. All three with Major Last year, through good com- General Gregory J. munication and team work, we Vadnais Adjutant were able to send almost all of General, Department of our Boys State alternates to Military & Veteran camp. So if you have an alter- Affairs nate boy, please send us their names and contact information. Then if we have the funds we can invite them to attend. Also if you have money and no candidates please send the money in and we will use it to sponsor a boy who may not be able to afford to attending without a monetary scholarship. The Boys State booster fund is still available and if someone wishes to contribute to help with other expenses for the program, please send a check made out to MICHIGAN WAR MEMORIAL Ð RESTORAL UPDATE Boys State Booster fund. Remember anyone can spon- Richard I. Chatman The Michigan War Veterans Memorial on the Memorial; we want them there at the sor a boy. The Legion posts are PDC 2011 - 2012 was dedicated on September 10, 1939. ceremony along with their families and Michigan Legion Among those present at the dedication friends. It would be especially fantastic if not required to put up all the Family, for those who were members of The American Legion, anyone knows of any attendees or descen- money. Recently, American are not familiar with VFW, United Spanish War Veterans, dants of attendees who attended the orig- Legion post 282 had a fish fry the Michigan War Grand Army of the Republic, DAV, inal ceremony to please tell them to contact and donated $300 to the Boys Memorial presently Military Order of the Purple Heart, The me. State program (thank you post located on the south- Polish Legion and The Canadian Legion. The War Veterans Memorial was designed 282)!!! west corner of the old It was done in the presence of 5,000 peo- to honor all of Michigan’s military veterans Legionnaire Bob Hodder and his Michigan State ple, many of them Veterans of World War of all wars and conflicts and intended to be wife, Debby, donated $50.00 Fairgrounds, (corner of 1 and their families. The Memorial is a a lasting tribute to the service and sacrifice they won in a 50/50 drawing. I E. State Fair St. & stone tower 35 feet high built of stones of veterans from throughout the State. In want to say THANK YOU for both Woodward Ave) contributed by posts of veterans groups the words of Dr. Linwood W. Snow, gener- Detroit, MI., The throughout the State of Michigan. al manager of the Michigan State Fair, at of these contributions. Several American Legion’s – Presently there are 241 plaques represent- the dedication “This memorial is dedicat- private clubs around the area 1st District, is part of a group that is in the ing posts located in 37 Michigan Counties ed to the memory of those living or dead, have long been strong support- process of restoring and moving the and 77 Michigan Cities. Veterans are rep- who served their flag and country so unstint- ers of our program, We need to Memorial to Gabriel Richard Park. resented from Adrian to Hamtramck, ingly.” We trust that this memorial when make our community and other Gabriel Richard Park is a beloved City Harrison to Kalamazoo, Kingsford to completed, will serve as a constant reminder legion posts aware of the Boys of Detroit park, located just east of the Lansing, and Muskegon Heights to to the youth of Michigan and the nation State Program and how worth- Belle Isle Bridge and directly across the Negaunee, from Plainwell to Sturgis and so that this nation shall never perish from the while it is. Detroit River from Belle Isle. The Detroit on and so on. face of the earth,” he said. We are looking forward to a River Front Conservancy has enhanced If all goes as planned the Memorial will I look forward to seeing as many of the bigger and better program this the park with a plaza and pavilion, locat- be rededicated in a special ceremony Michigan Legion Family, our fellow VSO’s year with at least 350 boys. We ed along the river’s edge. This also serves planned for September 9, 2013, the 74th and our Canadian allies when we relight the as the eastern most point for the River anniversary of the Michigan War Veterans flame in September. Anyone with questions need help from every Legion Walk. This location will provide a scenic Memorial. We need your help in getting or who would like to help in getting the Family member. This is a big goal and great location for all Michiganders to the word out to as many legionnaires as word out can reach me at 313.861.6852 or but together with your help we appreciate and visit the restored Memorial. possible especially those who have plaques email @ [email protected]. can make it happen. www.michalaux.org | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | April/May 2013 | 15 Who Are Your Kids “Chatting” National Security Is Everyone’s Job On-Line With? Harriet Sturim, National Security as a team to accomplish the coupons Committee Members by having a night where everyone gets LeAnn Knott & Bonnie Holt, Children master manipulators with skills that together to help cut out and box them & Youth Committee Member can cripple any child’s sense of aware- I firmly believe that National up and this takes a team effort. ness. They look for children that are Security is a job that everyone must do Another that is relatively easy is hav- To many of us April is a breath of emotionally vulnerable which can be for the betterment of our country. With ing an evening when the Auxiliary spring air, but to Auxiliary members it’s related to personal issues. They use that being said because National talks about the Basic Supply Kit. It Children and Youth month. You might these issues to befriend the children Security has so many facets every aux- does not matter where anyone lives an remember our theme this year is and empathize with them while build- iliary should at least be able to accom- emergency can always occur. “Child Predator Awareness”. Our ing a friendship and trust. plish one or two very specific items. I Whether it be snowstorm or a hurri- last article covered the social predator, The bottom line is GET INVOLVED! think one of the easiest ways is to do cane as we saw in the Northeast this in this article we’d like to cover the This is the key to making your comput- coupon clipping for our troops on for- year. Be Prepared is the best motto for internet predator. er and children safe. Even if the whole eign soil. This part helps not only sin- individuals and families. Just as we try to get to know our social media thing doesn’t interest you, gle service personal but especially Have your Auxiliary look to the kids’ friends or as they may say their it really interests the kids, and you families with tight budgets. Because guide and pick which works best for BFFs’ (Best Friends Forever), we must need to be part of the community to this will bring your Auxiliary together you. also get to know whom they are chat- understand it. Each platform has its ting with on line. We need to be own nuances, so it’s best to put your aware of where the computer is locat- toes, so to speak, in the same water as IT'S A GOOD THING! ed. The central living part of the your children. If they are on Facebook, Krystal Oberle, National Security house can keep kids out of sites that you need to be on Facebook. If they ness near you have a Veteran who has are off limits. Security settings should Committee Member left work to serve? Offer that business are tweeting on twitter, then you There are many ways to contribute be put in place to keep children off should be following them. Step out of a Flag to display in support of that certain websites. Sexual predators to the National Security of our Nation. Veteran. your comfort zone and be there for Everything from supporting the fami- use the internet to their advantage your kids. They will have a great deal Give a MOM or DAD a break since they can be whomever they lies of our Veterans to the displaying of some evening by helping out with the of respect for the effort you make to be the Flag. What better way to help want and go undetected. Many are a part of their world. children while they have some “ME” with the well being of our service- time. Give a Veteran a listening men than to furnish them with the ear...IT'S A GOOD THING! amenities they need. Help with the National Security of Schedule a Vet to Talk At Our Juniors do an excellent job in our Nation by giving of your time.... Your Child’s School supporting our Veterans with soaps, And remember.... IT’S A GOOD shampoos and the like. Does a busi- THING!! Deanna Cortright, site. Their stories are real and they Education Chairman have both the scars and victory sto- Wow!!! This year has gone by so ries to prove it. Having them share Left: First Lady Rysta Brown; fast. By the time you read this, all their experiences can be both educa- Department Commander Tom Brown; annual reports will be in, scholar- tional to students and healing to them. ship winners will be chosen, and Also, work with the schools to be Department President Mary Anne most of you will have already planned sure that they bring items that are Yuncker; and Department Adjutant or completed any programs you are allowed by the school but that will Patrick Lafferty attending the 2013 going to have. reinforce their stories. Many have Washington Conference. Education does not stop when pictures, awards and other items that school dismisses for the summer how- will make their experiences more real ever. Always remember that we can to the students they are sharing them all learn something new. If nothing with. else, our veterans have so much You can also include them in pro- knowledge to share with us. Most of grams at your local post or auxiliary. Below: Michigan representative Mary us have never experienced the many Invite them to a get acquainted gath- things that our veterans have. ering that you are planning to attract Anne Yuncker with other members They have traveled to lands that new members. You never know, they of the Central Division at the very few of us will ever visit. Many might join themselves if they aren’t Washington DC Conference. have fought battles, seen friends and already members. innocent people killed and, in many It’s never too early to begin getting cases, been wounded themselves. the word out in the schools about all Some have wounds that will never the wonderful scholarships the heal because they are mental not American Legion and American physical. What we can learn from Legion Auxiliary offer. If they have the these veterans is priceless, as is the information early, students will stories that their families can tell. remember when they are applying When you are planning your end next year and won’t be as apt to for- of the year programs in the schools get to apply for ours. include a veteran. Let them talk to Remember, the youth of today are students and tell their stories. What our leaders of tomorrow and it is they have to share cannot be learned never too soon to begin to prepare from any textbook or on any internet them for their future!!!!! 16 | April/May 2013 | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | www.michalaux.org AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY FACTS WHO WE ARE: Founded in 1919, The largest patriotic women’s organization, almost 800,000 members, support the American Legion initiatives and programs, advocate for veterans, educate citizens, mentor youth, promote patriotism, good citizenship, peace and security, have over 9,500 local units in the USA and foreign countries. We have over 30,000 members in Michigan alone! WHAT WE DO: Help nearly one million veterans, contribute $6 million toward veteran’s programs, volunteer over 927,000 hours to support vet- eran programs, contribute $3.5 million to programs benefitting children and youth, volunteer 2.6 million hours in community service, $1 mil- lion in annual scholarships, raise nearly $2 million to benefit veteran programs from distributing hand-made poppies, over 100,000 hours of serv- ice volunteered by the ALA juniors, granted $250,000 to help fellow Auxiliary members in time of need, ALA Gateway to Services provides online information about resources for active duty military, veterans, and their families WE: Promote American Legion programs, Promote education and literacy, Award scholarships, Promote Americanism and responsible citizen- ship, Teach about our nation’s flag, host Girls State and support Girls Nation, Volunteer at local VA centers, Distribute veteran made poppies, Assemble care packages for our troops, Help our members in time of need, Volunteer in our local communities, Provide help to active duty military, our veterans and their families! For God & Country! We Matter, Because They Matter!

Left: Junior Activities Chairman Darlene Jones; Department President Mary Anne Yuncker with the Department Juniors giving a tee shirt to National President Peggy Thomas.

Right: Department President Mary Anne Yuncker; Department Honorary Junior President Alexus Champion, and National President Peggy Thomas. 2013 AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY CONVENTION CALL The 93rd Annual Convention of the American or more members shall be entitled to one (1) Representatives and their First Deputies of the Legion Auxiliary, Department of Michigan is Delegate and one (1) additional Delegate for VA Hospitals, Grand Rapids Home for Veterans, hereby called to be held in Sault Ste Marie, every one hundred (100) members or major D.J. Jacobetti Home for Veterans and all non-VA Michigan June 27-June 30, 2013. fraction thereof. Hospital Chairmen and their First Deputies The Convention is called for the purpose of a. Units may send Delegates or Alternates only shall be Delegates-at-Large to the annual electing officers for the ensuing year, consider- if they have paid their Mandatory Funds for Convention and entitled to vote. ing amendments to the Constitution, By-Laws the current year to Department Headquarters and Standing Rules, receiving reports of the not less than (30) days prior to Convention. ARTICLE VI, SECTION 5: All Past Department National Executive Committeewoman, b. Units will be permitted to vote from the floor Presidents, as long as they remain members in Department Officers and Chairmen, electing only if they have complied with all man- good standing in a Unit in this Department, Delegates and Alternates to the 93rd National dates and are represented by at least one shall be Delegates-at-Large to the annual Convention and for the transaction of such (1) Delegate or Alternate. Convention and entitled to vote. other business as may be brought before it. c. Units organized during the year (after July 1) will be given the privileges of the Convention STANDING RULES (DEPARTMENT ADMINIS- REPRESENTATION floor. TRATION) A credential fee shall be paid for each Delegate- ARTICLE VI, SECTION 2: The Annual THE NUMBER OF DELEGATES ALLOWED at-Large for the Department Convention. All Convention shall be composed of Delegates WILL BE DETERMINED BY THE UNIT’S MEM- credential fees collected for Department and Alternates qualified as follows: BERSHIP INTO DEPARTMENT HEADQUAR- Convention shall be allocated to the printing a. Delegates and Alternates shall have paid their TERS ON MAY 27, 2013. account to help defray the cost of the Annual National and Department dues for the cur- Report Book. Credential fee is $10.00. rent year to Department Headquarters not UNIT CREDENTIAL FEES less than thirty (30) days prior to the conven- Standing Rules (Department of Administration) CONVENTION REGISTRATION FEE tion. credential fee is $10.00 for each delegate, $1.00 The fee of $15.00 charged by The American b. Delegates and Alternates must be over eight- fee will be charged for lost credentials for Legion Convention Corporation must be paid by een (18) years of age, except as provided in Department Convention, must be paid by the ALL DELEGATES, ALTERNATES, DELEGATES-AT- the Constitution, Article III, Section 2 (a). Unit for each Delegate to which it is entitled by LARGE AND GUESTS. Convention program c. Delegates and Alternates must be elected at virtue of its membership. book, badge, etc. will be given only on presen- a Unit meeting duly called for that purpose: tation of the Corporation’s receipt at the regis- notice of said meeting having been given DELEGATE AT LARGE tration desk. The registration fee of $15.00 no later than two (2) weeks prior to election. must be paid even if housing is not required. d. Alternates shall have priority in order of ARTICLE VI, SECTION 4: All elected and The convention registration fee of $15.00 is to their election. appointed Department Officers, all members of be mailed to the UP Association Convention ARTICLE VI, SECTION 3: Each Unit of ten (10) Department Standing Committees, the Hospital Corp. with a registration form. WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | April/May 2013 | 17 PROACTIVE LEADERSHIP RECONNECT IS READY TO Bud Hansbarger - cussion and answer them before they Leadership College Chairman are asked (with a positive demeanor). Spring has sprung! The days are get- Ask and answer the questions that did- SWING INTO SPRING! ting longer and the weather is getting n’t come up. Encourage others involve- Gary Tanner, Dept. Reconnect warmer. We’re noticing more people ment and input. Chairman out walking, kids playing, grass becom- Now the fun begins, you’ve deter- The Reconnect Committee is very excited ing greener, and all sorts of spring clean- mined the action. There is still a few to announce its newest community partner- ing happening. Oh yes, spring is in the more steps. Lay out the goals and mile- ship! air! stones in achieving them. Determine The Millman N. R. G. Foundation! The N. Everyone seems to have recharged priorities, these priorities may need to be R. G. (No Restrictions Golf) Foundation is a their batteries and ready to take on any- adjusted as you go (stay flexible). Inform leading expert in teaching adaptive golf to thing and everything. Now is the time to everyone involved and keep them individuals with disabilities and the Michigan get those projects started, whatever they informed (in the know). Allow adequate might be. While we have everyone’s prep time, prep for the participants Wounded and Returning Warrior Program enthusiasm talk about the difficult topics, and/or locations. Go forth with the will be partnering with the N.R.G. Foundation to better serve our wounded and topics that require time investment (i.e. action. Anticipate for and expect some disabled veterans by offering adaptive golf clinics and therapy. Scott Millman membership drives, holiday parades, small problems, have back up plan pre- and his wife Teresa founded the No Restrictions Golf foundation a little over a fund raiser’s, officer and committee nom- determined. Point out all the successes year ago. In addition to being a certified Adaptive Golf instructor, Scott is also inations, etc.). Take the incentive, work achieved, big and small. Review you certified PGA Master Teaching Pro with over twenty years of experience! The with the enthusiasm and plan ahead. plan and progress daily, make weekly Reconnect Committee’s Michigan Wounded and Returning Warrior Program To be proactive we must plan ahead. reports, and give a final report. purchased the first Single Rider adaptive golf cart for the N.R.G. Foundation Why should we do this, who will bene- Congratulations. The event was suc- which will allow our disabled veterans to enjoy a new sense of independence and fit and who will not. Who will and who cess. Give praise to all involved, thank mobility. Scott visits the Detroit VA Medical Center with his special equipment would like to participate, as well as who everyone for their contribution and par- to show veterans the great game of golf. Whether our disabled veterans have would we like to have participate (i.e. ticipation, create and publish a press played golf in the past, or are enjoying it for the very first time, the benefits of guest speaker, award recipient, etc). How release outlining the event and its posi- participating in adaptive sports increases their self-esteem, provides new recre- many resources will be used and when tive outcome. Start proactively prepar- ational opportunities, reduces depression, promotes the healing process and should we use them. Create a list of all ing for your next event, applying the improves their overall quality of life. The Reconnect Committee is always look- the pro’s and con’s, the need to do’s and knowledge gained. ing for new and relevant ways to expand the services offered to our veterans and not to do’s. Think of any and all the Develop leadership daily (it’s not questions that might arise during dis- developed in a day). their families and partnering with the Millman N.R.G. Foundation was a great opportunity! Michigan is second in the nation for its wide variety of golf desti- nations and we are so excited to offer this new cutting edge opportunity to the veterans we serve. The new Single rider cart has a power assisted lift seat the PUBLIC RELATIONS SHOULD BE AN swivels to either side and provides disabled golfers with the added stability to EVERYDAY ACTIVITY swing and hit their golf shots while buckled into the seat. The golfer’s bag and Jim Wallace, Chairman, Department membership and with that we will have clubs are mounted on the front of the cart for easy access and the cart operates Public Relations Committee more revenue to grow our programs. with easy one handed controls. Through the Americans with Disabilities Act and However, only you can do this by starting because the weight and footprint of the cart are less than that of the equipment The Public Relation Committee has right now. Set up your contacts with all the used to maintain the greens, our disabled veterans are able to drive the cart onto been busy this past year in promoting the media outlets. Use them often and make and off of the greens. Whether programs and activities of The American sure that the items you want conferred in it is a bunker, the rough, fairway, Legion. Have you, your Post and District those media outlets are correct and helpful or green, disabled veterans can been doing the same? If we want to suc- to “the cause”. access every part of the course ceed in the future as the largest war time Public Relations should be an everyday and enjoy the magic of Golf! veterans organization in the United States, activity. From a personal point of view or Check out the Millman N.R.G. we better. The Committee has appointed for the overall organizational picture we Foundation on the web @ each and every one of the legionnaires as must promote, promote and promote some more. Make sure that all of the programs www.norestrictionsgolf.org and Ambassadors to spread the word to the public and gain acceptance from the com- and activities are publicized and benefiting on Facebook! munity regarding “our little secret”. We the posts, districts and department. You are Our cart has been featured on understand that our programs/activities the best ally the department has for saving FOX2 Detroit, and ESPN Radio are very good and help a lot of people. this organization. Without you we are los- Detroit! Hope to see you on the But do they know it? It is never too late ing the battle of survival. By the year 2019, links this year! to get the information to the TV & Radio instead of growing to new horizons and media, newspapers and any other form of frontiers we will be looking back and won- bragging that will enhance the attendance dering what just happened. to our programs/activities. Please contact your area Public Relations If we precede full speed ahead and Committeeperson for assistance in growing enhance our current promotions we will your posts awareness, promotions and activ- also increase our membership. Our ities to the public. Their names are listed National Commander Koutes has chal- on the website (michiganlegion.org) under lenged us to have a total membership of 3.4 programs (Public Relations). Keep up the TAPS are located on million by the American Legion’s 100th great work and let us all work toward our our website to be Birthday in 2019. How do you think this goal. A preferred organization that viewed or printed at: will occur? Only by our Public Relations serves and assists the veterans, active www.michiganlegion.org/ Promotions. You are the biggest part of duty personnel, their families and pages/taps.html that equation. By promoting ourselves the community through our vast pro- (The American Legion) we will increase our grams and activities. 18| MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | April/May 2013 | WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG CHILDREN & YOUTH 5th Zone Report Ron Geiger Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. This By Jack Koivisto, Let's have a real show of atten- Department Chairman Hospital, founded in 1894, is one of 5th Zone Commander dance. the leading centers for Pediatric Remember also that the U.P. Party This article is responding to ques- Health Care in the United States Greetings to everyone. will be held at the Saulte Ste Marie tions that I was asked at Winter and is located just Northwest of All posts in the U.P. take note. Post during this conference. Conference for information regard- Milwaukee. Just go to the Children’s June is going to be a very busy We of Zone 5 are in 3rd place in ing different Children & Youth proj- Miracle Network website of your month for us all. Mark your calen- the membership run. Don't sit on ects this year and to when and where closest member Hospital to make dars with the following dates -- June those memberships, send them in donations can be made. your donation and get credit for your 14th and June 15th make a real and put Zone 5 where it belongs - Children’s Miracle Network Post. This is a secure site. For those effort to attend the District meetings back on top! (Miracle Pennies by the Year): without computer access, there is a at Menominee -- then on June 26th Hope to see you all in the very Simply donate a penny for every CMN contact at each one of these thru June 30th plan to attend the near future. Spring is near and look summer conference at Saulte Ste forward to good traveling weather. year of your age or your Post can set Hospitals and they can give you all Marie. The U.P. is host this year. out a “Piggy Bank” for spare change. of the information that you need. Donations will go to the closest DO NOT make your donations thru member Hospital to your zip code. corporate sponsors such as Walmart, Where to donate? Member IHOP, Speedway or any others as 9th District Report Hospitals in Michigan are: Devos they are the ones who will receive Gary Hlavka able to pay their memberships, use Children’s Hospital -Grand Rapids, the credit! Remember, 100% of 9th District Commander your poppy fund. The poppy funds are Sparrow Hospital-Lansing, Hurley your donation goes directly to the Greetings Legionnaires, it looks like there to help veterans. Remember spring may be on the way. It has been the last two words of our preamble: Medical Center-Flint, Beaumont cause of making miracles for our difficult for the last month to make Mutual Helpfulness. Hospital-Royal Oak. For my friends children. post visits, but now that March is here I had the honor of presenting a copy in the Upper Peninsula it would be Thank You for supporting Children I am now on the road again. For all of of the founding of the American Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin- & Youth. the posts I have been to, I thank you Legion in France, March 21, 1919 and for the warm welcome I have other articles pertaining to the received. It is very hard to get to all of American Legion founding taken from ISTRICT EPORT the posts as most meetings are on the original copies of the Stars and By Ron Runyan,D 16don’t R know what they can do to help or first or second Monday or Tuesday Stripes that Bowen- Holliday Post 35 District Commander be a part of our organization. There each month. I know I will probably not in Traverse City, my home post, has in Commander Brown, members of are many ways you can help and make it to all of the posts in the district their possession. I presented a the state and district it brings me great believe me, we could all use it. Get one but I will try my best to. framed copy to the National pleasure to report great things from the or two of you and visit your local busi- Membership is down, our district is Commander James Koutz and to the mighty 16th district. We have survived ness and see if they would allow you to in the next to last place. We need to Department of Michigan Commander snowpocolypse 2013, membership recruit at their site. What better way to get out and talk to people and please Thomas Brown. I also had a copy for numbers are up and we are glad to find the younger vets then to go out do not forget to talk to female veter- the Department Adjutant Patrick report there is no need for a and find them. Sitting in the post or at ans as they are also invited to be a Lafferty for our Department Office in Emergency Financial Manager here! home is not going to get them, please part of the Legion family. At the Lansing but I broke the glass. I have On a serious note, I am truly happy to help your post. department winter meeting, National since repaired the glass and will get it Commander Koutz talked about to Lansing. say that I am very proud of my fellow To the post in the 16th, please adopting a veteran, someone you Our next District 9 meeting will be members in the district on their efforts remember to get your CPR’s done this may know that does not have the held at Bowen- Holliday Post 35 in to further the goals of The American year. If you need help please contact means to join. Give them a hand and Traverse City on Saturday, May Legion. Our post have new tools and me at the district meetings or call. Also, they may know other veterans that 11,2013. I hope to see you there. ideas to gain members in the post, remember Boys State and Student need help. Also, if your post has God Bless our Military and God more and more veterans are benefiting Trooper is coming up soon. Please help members in homes that may not be Bless America. from the work put in from the service a young person by supporting them or officers and since the economy is better in the least providing them the infor- post are doing much better. mation to attend. It gives me great Recently I heard the future of our pleasure to let you know about a young organization is in the hands of our man from Wyandotte, that was sup- younger veterans. I DISAGREE! Ok, ported by Post 217, who went to Boys to some degree the future of our State in 2012. This young man was just organization will depend on the accepted to West Point as a cadet in fall younger vet joining our ranks. 2013. This is partly due to his ability to However , I believe it is the older veter- attend Boys State and the recognition an that determines our future. How is West Point gives to our program. This this you ask? Well as I see it, the older is one example that our programs veteran has many more years of make a difference in our community knowledge, experience and most and young people’s lives! importantly TIME! The time aspect is Lastly, as the year wraps up, I want something the 20-50 year old veteran to thank the Legion Family in the 16th can not spare much of since they are district. It is not the commander alone working, raising families and further- who makes this all work, but the work ing their education. Yes, you the older from many. I hope for a great conven- veteran is in high demand by your tion in June in Sault Ste Marie and 9th District Commander Gary Hlavka and State Commander Thomas Brown present National post. I have heard while recruiting look forward to some hospitality with Commander James Koutz a framed edition of a March 1919 Stars & Stripes newspaper during the from some older members that they you all. National Commander Banquet in Flint during the Winter Meeting. WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | April/May 2013 | 19

Owosso American Legion Post 57 recently made a donation to Respite of Shiawassee County. Making the $500 presentation to Executive Director Helen Howard is James Carruthers, Commander of the post, and David Mogg, Finance Officer of the post. Classifieds Honorably Discharged Buying Legion, Auxiliary, SAL, Veterans The Camp Curnalia Cottage 40/8, VFW, DAV, Masonic, and PRIVATE Owner Association is a com- FOE medals, badges, pins, munity established for caps,bars, membership cards COLLECTOR Veterans who have received and Stamp Collections. BUYING an honorable discharge from Contact Craig R. Wotring, PO German, Japanese, U.S. SUPPORT WILWIN LODGE any branch of the United Box 1743 Owosso, MI 48867, States Armed Forces. 989-725-9728 Legion Member military items from all All residents share access to Golfer’s and Hole Sponsors Wanted the sandy beaches located on wars. Top cash paid for Clare Farwell SAL Post 558 sponsoring a 4 person scramble golf outing the northern shore of beautiful Airborne, Aviation, Pilot, Higgins Lake in Northern June 21st, 2013. $60 per golfer/$50 for hole sponsorship. For informa- Michigan. You would love call- "The contents of adver- Seal, Special Forces, OSS, tion contact Kelly Morley at (517) 896-0037. All proceeds support the ing this your vacation retreat or tisements which appear Ranger, Marine items. Also Wilwin Lodge. even your primary home. For more information about in the Legionnaire are German medals, daggers, cottages for sale in this solely the responsibility swords, guns, personality Watch your mailbox Veterans Community call 989- of the advertisers. items and billion flags. Watch your mail box for the Wilwin Lodge Sweepstakes for a chance to 390-4208 or Visit: www.cam- pcurnalia.com Appearance of any Also Japanese swords, hel- win. Camp Curnalia Cottage Owners Association P.O. Box advertisement in the mets and guns. 462 Higgins Lake, Michigan Legionnaire does not Call for top cash offer Wilwin Lodge Information Seminar 48627-0462 Want to learn more about the Wilwin Lodge and its mission? An informa- constitute either a rec- Combat wounded vet tional seminar, question and answer session will be held at the American ommendation, nor an James Leslie (member), Legion Lapeer Post 16 1701 West Genesee St., Lapeer, MI 48446 on endorsement of the 3540 Timberline Dr April 28th, 2013 at 3PM (1500 for diehard military folk). Visit goods and services Clyde, MI 48049 http://www.americanlegionpost16lapeer.com for further information. offered therein." (810) 989-9866 20 | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | April/May 2013 | WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG Around the State...

Nelson O’Brien presents the Am. Legion General Military Excellence Award – CDT Rebecca C. Dubois and CDT Justin T. Nelson O’Brien presents the Am. Legion Scholastic Crysler members of EMU’s ROTC Excellence Award – CDT Imraan A. Saifudin and CDT AL Pinckney Memorial Post 419 Commander Matthew D. Hendley members of EMU’s ROTC Butch Ely (L) and 1st Vice Cmdr Red Johnson ®, present Anthony Hoeft with his Certificate of Recognition for his 50 years of membership in the American Legion.

SAL 2nd Zone Commander Jeff Meulendyk a 100% Membership sign to Caledonia Squadron #305 for achieving that milestone.

Arthur Mitchell Post 50 Iron Mountain greets State Commander Thomas Brown during UP Tour.

American Legion Post 207 Portage Michigan Honored two of its distinguished members on attaining 50 Years and 70 Years continuous service. (R) Frank Warren, right, was presented with his certificate by Commander Robert Radina, left, for 50 years continous service. (L) Roberet Radina, left, congratulates Dr. F.C. Cretsinger for his 70 years of distinguished service, while Don Campbell, Child & Youth advisor looks on. SAL NEC Greg Price (proud father) swore his son (SAL member Squadron #396) Shannon Price in as a new 10 District Wayne County Commissioner. (L-R) Shannon, Maddie(daughter), Brady (son), Jackie (wife), Rosemary (mother), and Greg.

Danny Pummill (3rd from the right), MNSS,MMAS, currently serves as the director of Veteran Benefits Administration the DOD program office at the Veterans Benefits Administration in Washington, DC. He spoke to members at the Uren- Cooper-Johnson American Legion #50 in Iron Mountain. He told of his career, his work, and answered many “tough” Post 559 Commander Wayne Roy and Post 559 Adjutant Ray Seppanen presented Mid-Peninsula Fourth Grade Teacher questions on Veterans Benefits. He was there to help any Mrs. Patricia Kivioja Pledge of Allegience comic books and DVD’s on Flag Education. Before the Legionnaires left the veteran that needed assistance. His talk was well received. class with great robust, recited the pledge of allegiance.