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Home , 1976 World Series, Bernie Carbo, Bruce Boisclair, Bud Harrelson, Doubleday Field, Jack Heidemann

EJMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 KSt., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

AMERICAN LEGION NEWS BRIEFS FOR WEEK ENDING 8-6-76

"I join Legionnaires everywhere in extending deepest sympathy to the families of those comrades and sisters who were stricken following the Department Convention in Philadelphia." — American Legion National Commander Harry G. Wiles, in a state- ment regarding the mystery deaths of Pennsylvania Legionnaires.

* * *

At least 23 American Legionnaires who attended the Pennsylvania Department Convention in Philadelphia, Pa., July 21-24, have died from a painful and mysterious disease, and more than one hundred have been hospitalized throughout the state with similar symptoms to those which claimed the lives of other Legionnaires. * * *

The American Legion National Commander Harry G. Wiles and the American Legion Auxiliary National President Lotys Schanel cancelled the scheduled visit to Phila- delphia for the Boys/Girls Nation Program due to the "unknown nature of the disease" which struck Pennsylvania Legionnaires. * * *

Ted Williams, former who was hailed as one of base- ball's greatest hitters, will be the featured speaker at American Legion 's Banquet. The Banquet will be held in the Sheraton-Wayfarer Convention Center, Manchester, N.H., on Wednesday, Sept. 1, at 7 p.m., prior to the 1976 Ameri- can Legion World Series. * * *

Representative Ray Roberts, chairman of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs, will be the featured Congressional speaker before The American Legion's Legislative and Veterans Affairs-Rehabilitation Commissions during meetings scheduled for the Legion's 58th National Convention in Seattle.

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NOTICE

There will be no American Legion News Service on Aug. 13, the week prior to the National Convention in Seattle, Wash., Aug. 20-26. Two mailings of ALNS will be made from the Convention City. Normal ALNS operations will be resumed from Indianapolis on Sept. 3. ****************************************** -alns- QMERJCAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 KSt., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For release 8-6-76

WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—Harry G. Wiles, National Commander of The American Legion^ has issued the following statement in connection with the deaths of Pennsylvania Legionnaires:

"I join Legionnaires everywhere in extending deepest sympathy to the families of those comrades and sisters who were stricken following the Department Convention in Philadelphia.

"I pledge to them that The American Legion will cooperate in every way with health authorities to track down the cause of this mysterious disease. I pledge, too, that The American Legion at every level will support fully any immunization or other public health program that results from the Pennsylvania investigation.

"This tragedy is not limited to the families or to the Legion, It involves all Americans."

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HARRISBURG, PA. — (ALNS)—At least 23 American Legionnaires who attended the Pennsylvania Department Convention in Philadelphia, Pa., July 21-24, have died from a painful and mysterious disease, and more than one hundred have been hospi- talized throughout the state with similar symptoms to those which claimed the lives of other Legionnaires.

The tragic situation is under investigation by Pennsylvania State Health Department officials and a special team from the Federal Center for Disease Control in Atlanta, Ga.

Symptoms include severe headache, chills and fever and chest ailments, and Pennsylvania Department officials are advising anyone who attended the Convention and who experiences any of the symptoms to contact health officials without delay.

National Commander Harry G. Wiles dispatched the following wire to Pennsylvania Department Commander Joseph Adams:

"Deeply regret the untimely passing of fellow American Legion and Auxiliary members from your Department reported today. I understand all but one had attended the Department Convention and that the deaths are under investigation by State Health authorities. Our prayers are with the families of the deceased and those who remain hospitalized. Please keep us fully informed."

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****************************************** * * * Plan to attend the 1976 World Series of American Legion Baseball on Sept, * * 2-6, at Gill Stadium in Manchester, N.H., and watch future stars in action. * ******************************************

-alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 KSt., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 0 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For release 8-6-76

WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—The American Legion National Commander Harry G. Wiles and the American Legion Auxiliary National President Lotys Schanel have cancelled the scheduled visit to Philadelphia for the Boys/Girls Nation Program. The full text of the joint statement follows:

"In view of the unknown nature of the disease that has struck in Philadelphia afflicting large numbers of our members, we consider it prudent to cancel the trip to Philadelphia scheduled for the Bicentennial Boys/Girls Nation, August 5-6.

"Boys/Girls Nation will conclude its 1976 session here in Washington, D.C.

"We regret the necessity for this action, but must consider the safety of the young people as paramount."

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INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)--Ted Williams, former Boston Red Sox outfielder who was hailed as one of baseball's greatest hitters, will be the featured speaker at Ameri- can Legion Baseball's World Series Banquet. The Banquet will be held in the Sheraton-Wayfarer Convention Center, Manchester, N.H., on Wednesday, Sept. 1, at 7 p.m., prior to the 1976 American Legion World Series.

Though Williams' career with the Red Sox was twice interrupted by service in the armed forces (1943-45 and 1952-53), he recorded six batting championships (second only to Ty Cobb's twelve), 521 home runs (among the few to pass five hundred in major league history), and a lifetime batting average of .344 (exceeded by only six hitters of the modern era). Williams is the last major league player to over .400 in one season, hitting .406 in 1941. He was named the league's most valuable player in 1946 and again in 1949. He retired as a player in September 1960 and was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1966.

Williams played American Legion Baseball for DeWitt C. Mitchell Post 201, San Diego, Calif., before turning professional. He was named American Legion Baseball Graduate of the Year in 1960.

Curt Gowdy, popular television sportscaster, will act as master of ceremonies at the event.

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NEWTON, KANSAS—(ALNS)—McCulley Ashlock, Kansas National Executive Committee- man of The American Legion (1944-46), died recently here.

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"YOUR AMERICAN LEGION — IT'S GREAT TO KNOW YOU BELONG" 0i6t ESMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 KSt., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 0 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For release 8-6-76

WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—Representative Ray Roberts, chairman of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs, will be the featured Congressional speaker before The American Legion's Legislative and Veterans Affairs-Rehabilitation Commissions during meetings scheduled for the Legion's 58th National Convention in Seattle.

Roberts will appear before the Commissions at 10:00 a.m., Aug. 20, in the Center House at the Convention Center.

Also scheduled for Aug. 20 are appearances by Oliver Meadows, staff director of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs and Guy McMichael, counsel for the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs and Dr. Peter Beach, Office of Veterans Affairs — Department of Health, Education and Welfare. Meadows is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. before the Legislative Commission in the Charleston Room of the Washington Plaza Hotel, and McMichael will address a joint meeting of the Legis- lative-Veterans Affairs-Rehabilitation Commissions at 2:00 p.m. in the Center House. Dr. Beach will speak to the Legislative Commission at 3:00 p.m. in the Charleston Room of the Washington Plaza Hotel.

On Aug. 21, Representative Mike McCormick, of Washington, will meet with the Legislative and Economics Commissions at the Center House.

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INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)--ln cooperation with the American Legion Baseball program, a number of prominent baseball figures have recorded Legion Baseball promotional spots for the upcoming Regional Tournaments and World Series of American Legion Baseball. , popular television sportscaster and voice of the Mets, and , Baseball Commissioner, were among the non-players who gave testimony to the importance of the Legion Baseball program. Major League players who parti- cipated in the recording of radio promotional spots included: , , , Darrell Chaney, , and .

The spots were produced by The American Legion and will be mailed to a select group of radio stations prior to the Legion Regional Baseball tournaments.

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SEATTLE—(ALNS)—Wanted: Salmon fishermen. No experience, no license neces- sary. That's the sign hanging out at American Legion Convention headquarters here as arrangements are made for one of the most exciting excursions ever tacked onto a national convention — fishing for delicious salmon in the blue Pacific. Dick Klinge, general chairman of the Convention Corporation, has arranged 54 charter spots each day for Aug. 18, 19 and 27, giving Legionnaires a good opportunity to hit the water and ship home a fresh or canned ocean beauty.

-alns- 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION —THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For release 8-6-76

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—The Eight and Forty, an organization of American Legion Auxiliary members, has announced approval of fifteen Lung and Respiratory Disease Nursing Scholarship awards, valued at $1,500 each, for one year's study, to nurses in furthering their education.

Recipients of the scholarships, upon completion of their studies in nursing, will be employed in either supervision, administration or teaching with a direct relationship to lung and respiratory disease nursing.

In announcing this year's awards, Mrs. Ronald Aichholz, , National Nursing Scholarship chairman, said that during the past twenty years, the Eight and Forty has awarded 213 scholarships, totaling $271,500, to help eliminate personnel short- ages in this important area of nursing.

Recipients approved for scholarships for the 1976-77 school year are:

NAME HOME STATE SCHOOL TO ATTEND

Kathleen Pryce Arena Hicksville, N.Y. St. Francis College Catherine Andrea Bates Speedway, Ind. Indiana Central Univ. Lisbeth Ann Benton Cambridge, Mass. U. of Alberta Ann Dugo Brookline, Mass Boston College Odiemae Lucas Elliott Tucson, Ariz. U. of Arizona Nancy Ann Geoglein Lincoln, Neb. U. of Nebraska Davina Jeanette Gosnell Columbus, Ohio Ohio State Univ. Carol Ann Gulla Hayward, Calif. California State Univ. Emilia Lucyna Laubach Sanford, Fla. U. of Texas Vickie White Matus Lafayette, Ind. U. of Cincinnati Carol Patricia Riley Birmingham, Ala. U. of Alabama Catherine Beary Riley Freeport, N. Y. C. W. Post, Greenvale, N. Y. Clare Marie Theresa Rodgers Philadelphia, Pa. U. of Virginia Capitola Louise Stanley Peoria, 111. U. of North Carolina Priscilla Vazquez Bethesda, Md. U. of Maryland

Mrs. Sherman Lansdale, Le Chapeau National, of California, has advised that the Eight and Forty Nursing Scholarships will again be offered for the 1977-78 school year. Announcements regarding eligibility are available from Eight and Forty Scholar- ship chairmen or from The American Legion Education and Scholarship Program, P. 0. Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206, Attn: Eight and Forty Scholarships.

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******************************************* * * A Plan to attend the 1976 World Series of American Legion Baseball on Sept. ^ 2-6, at Gill Stadium in Manchester, N.H., and watch future stars in action. ^ *******************************************

-aIns- 0i6b 0MEFUCAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 KSt., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For release 8-6-76

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—The American Legion's Musical Spectacular this year will be comprised of Junior Drum and Bugle Corps only, with a pre-show performance by other categories of Uniformed Groups competing at the 1976 American Legion National Convention. The pre-show performance will begin at 6:30 p.m., Sat., Aug. 21, at High School Memorial Stadium, Seattle Center, with the Musical Spectacular set for 7 p.m.

A spirited and colorful performance from among the Junior Corps in competition for the 1976 American Legion National Championship is anticipated, as always. The patriotic pageantry of a Legion Musical Spectacular will be a thrilling performance to those seeing it for the first time as well as those who have attended at other Legion National Conventions.

Presently, eleven Junior Corps are entered in competition for Seattle, and in the absence of Senior Corps, all Junior Corps entries will compete in the Musical Spectacular, and there will be no preliminary contests in this category of Uniformed Groups.

Seats on the concert side of the field are $3.50, while general admission seats on the opposite side will be on sale at $2.50.

At deadline time for contest entries it was determined there would be no con- tests this year in the following categories of competition: Senior Drum and Bugle Corps, Junior Band, Senior Band and Firing Squad.

Other categories of contests in which there will be competition at sites other than the Musical Spectacular include: Junior Color Guard, five entries; Senior Color Guard, eleven entries; Junior Drill Team, four entries; Senior Drill Team, four entries; Choruses, three entries; and Quartets, two entries.

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WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—Immediately following the Big Thompson River flood in Colorado, Estes Park American Legion Post 119, Estes Park, Col., opened the doors of its Post Home as an information and identification center for the flood refu- gees. Many refugees are being housed there.

According to Department Adjutant E. Dean Hunter, the flood victims have plenty of food and clothing, but funds are desperately needed for temporary housing and transportation of the flood victims back to their homes.

American Legion Post 15 in Loveland, Col., has already donated three hundred dollars to assist. The Colorado American Legion's Rehabilitation Committee is in charge of the assistance program.

-alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION- ■THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 KSt., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 0 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For release 8-6-76

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—The American Legion's youthful VIPs, champions of Legion youth activities, will be guests of the organization at the 58th annual National Convention in Seattle, Wash., Aug. 20-26, and will be introduced from the Convention platform by National Commander Harry G. Wiles at about 9:45 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 25.

Responding to the introduction for the young people will be Robert H. Maus, of Honolulu, Hawaii, the Legion's 1976 National Oratorical Contest winner. The 18-year-old graduate of St. Louis High School, Honolulu, is planning to enter UCLA this fall to major in law. In taking the national championship of the Legion's high school oratorical contests he also was the winner of an eight thousand dollar scholarship.

Representing American Legion Baseball will be David Delmar Edler, of Yakima, Wash., the 1975 American Legion Baseball Player-of-the-Year who was a -out- fielder on the 1975 American Legion National Championship baseball team sponsored by Logan-Wheeler Post 36 of Yakima. Now a student at Washington State University, he played with his college team in the 1976 NCAA College World Series at Omaha last June,

Mark Aaron Wright, a 17-year-old graduate (1976) of Sooner High School, Bartlesville, Okla., who is planning to enter the University of Oklahoma this fall with an eye on a career in medicine, will represent The American Legion's interest in Scouting as the Legion's Scout-of-the-Year. The Scout troop in which he is active is sponsored by James H. Teel Post 105, Bartlesville.

Representing The American Legion-American Legion Auxiliary Boys Nation-Girls Nation program for 1976, a combined and expanded project for the Bicentennial year, will be Vincent Marazita, of Lansing, Mich., the 1976 Boys Nation-Girls Nation president. A 17-year-old, who will be a senior at Waverly High School in Lansing this fall, he is planning to attend the University of Michigan and is considering law as a career.

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SEATTLE—(ALNS)—For flatlanders or Easterners visiting the Pacific Northwest for the first time, or for just about anybody who loves beautiful mountain views and alpine meadows, Hurricane Ridge is the perfect spot.

Located in Olympic National Park on the Olympic Peninsula, it is within easy driving or tour bus distance for Legionnaires attending the 58th National Convention. The road to Hurricane Ridge leaves U.S. 101 just east of Port Angeles and climbs 5,225 feet to the ridge summit in gentle, winding curves that take seventeen miles to reach the top. Port Angeles is about a two hour car trip and ferry ride from Seattle.

-alns- i. 4 QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION- -THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 0 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811 For release 8-6-76

COOPERSTOWN, N.Y.-(ALNS)—David D. Edler of Yakima, Wash., 1975 American Legion Baseball Player of the Year, will be honored by the National Baseball Hall of Fame and The American Legion during a plaque presentation before a crowd of nearly ten thousand fans at Doubleday Field here, Monday, Aug. 9. Edler was a pitcher-outfielder on the 1975 American Legion National Championship team spon- sored by Logan Wheeler Post No. 36.

The plaque will be presented to the Yakima, Wash., Legion star just prior to the - Hall of Fame game.

By virtue of a special arrangement with officials of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, an American Legion Baseball player is selected each year from competing teams at the Legion's World Series as the "American Legion Baseball Player of the Year." The player's picture is mounted upon a plaque and placed in the Game's shrine. The selection is made on the basis of playing ability, integrity, mental attitude, cooperation, citizenship, sportsmanship and general good conduct.

Selection committee members include representatives of the Baseball Writers Association of America, The American Legion, Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, American Association of College Baseball Coaches and the National Association of Leagues.

American Legion Baseball will be represented by 31 of its roster of most famous graduates in the 1976 Hall of Fame game, according to Daniel J. O'Connor, Jackson Heights, N.Y., chairman of The American Legion's National Americanism Commission.

Of the New York Mets, sixteen players came to major league fame via Legion Baseball. They are: Bruce Boisclair, Leon Brown, Jim Dwyer, Leo Foster, Bud Harrelson, Ron Hodges, Jerry Kossman, Skip Lockwood, Mickey Lolich, John Matlack, , , , , Craig Swan and .

On the American League Milwaukee Brewers, fifteen Legion Baseball representa- tives will include: Pete Broberg, Bernie Carbo, Jim Colborn, Dan Frisella, Mike Hegan, Jack Heidemann, Von Joshua, Sixto Lezcano, Darrell Porter, Ed Rodriguez, Bill Sharp, Jim Slaton, Gorman Thomas, Bill Travers and Robbie Yount.

American Legion Baseball's 51st Anniversary World Series will be played at Gill Stadium, Manchester, N.H., Sept. 2-6, 1976.

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JEFFERSONVILLE, IND.—(ALNS)—Hermann A. Wenige, 94, former editor and publisher of the award-winning Post publication, Legion A-I-R, died in a VA hospital on Aug. 3. A combat veteran of World War I, he was service officer for the Jeffersonville Law- rence Capehart Post of The American Legion and processed over twelve thousand claims during his 45 years in that position.

-alns- 0171 QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 0 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For release 8-6-76

SEATTLE—(ALNS)—The thunder of hooves, the roar of the crowd and the green of the payoff all await Legionnaires attending one of the special entertainment events during the 58th National Convention here — horse racing at Longacres Race Track.

The ninth race of the afternoon on Wednesday, Aug. 25, will be designated The American Legion Feature Race, with a top Legion official bestowing the traditional victor's garland on the equine with the fastest feet.

Longacres, one of the most beautiful tracks in the Pacific Northwest, will welcome all Legion and Auxiliary members displaying their Convention badges at no cost. Visitors also will be admitted to the Turf Club without charge but tickets will be needed for an eleven dollar extravagant buffet to be served about 5 p.m.

Buses from several downtown locations, with special ones at Legion pickup points, will take the visitors to and from the track. For those who will be using cars in Seattle, there is good news — there is parking for eight thousand cars at the track and access is easy from several directions.

Longacres is a permanent Seattle area fixture, with the racing season running from May 5 through Sept. 20. Parimutuel betting is allowed by Washington law and enjoyed by local residents who last year managed to change the ownership of $71 million during the racing season while letting five per cent of it slip into the hands of the state treasurer.

Legionnaires coming to the Convention can enjoy the fun and help keep Washington green.

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SEATTLE—(ALNS)—If military history is your bag, there's a treat in store for you when you come to Seattle for the 58th annual American Legion National Convention.

Just a brief car ride south of Seattle, right alongside Interstate 5 and easy to find, stands the Fort Lewis Military Museum, a colorful warehouse of displays tracing the military presence in the Pacific Northwest all the way back to Lewis and Clark.

Weaponry from all ages, including a World War I gun that could not be used because its barrel was made in Germany, is featured throughout the museum. The building itself is an historic relic, built in 1917 by the Salvation Army and operated for about two years as the Red Shield Inn.

Admission is free, the hours are noon to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday and special group visits can be arranged by telephoning 968-4796 for guide service.

-alns- 0 QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 KSt., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 0 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811 For release 8-24-76 SEATTLE, WASH.—(ALNS)--The American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary climaxed a year long fund drive when a check for more than one million dollars was presented to the American Cancer Society.

National Commander Harry G. Wiles made the presentation during the first business session of the 58th annual National Convention being held here. Dr. Benjamin F. Byrd, Jr., president, American Cancer Society, accepted the check.

The Legion and Auxiliary began their cooperative effort to raise money for the American Cancer Society at the 57th annual National Convention in Minneapolis. The fund raising effort was designed to help the Cancer Society defeat the menace of cancer.

Wiles, in presenting the check to the Cancer Society, pointed out that cancer is the common foe of all mankind and inflicts far greater casualties on the people of the United States than all the wars, foreign and domestic, in which America has been involved.

The Legion leader told the assembled delegates that the Legion and Auxiliary literally "declared war on cancer," and used the following statistics to emphasize his point: Cancer will strike one out of every four Americans and will affect two out of three families in the nation and, in this decade alone, cancer will be the cause of three and one-half million deaths; there will be six and one-half million new cancer cases and ten million Americans will be under medical care for cancer.

Commander Wiles said that while the statistics were staggering, through research, organizations such as the American Cancer Society have developed techniques for saving one-third of the cancer victims if the disease is detected in time — a total of 222,000 this year alone.

"Through continued research they (ACS) hope to find the cause and cures for all types of cancer in the not-too-distant future, but to do that takes money and lots of it," Wiles said. "That is why The American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary offered to help," he said .

The Legion and Auxiliary concentrated their initial effort to raise funds through a direct mail appeal to every member of The American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary. The response from that effort was overwhelming, spuring activity at the post and unit level to put the Legion and Auxiliary over "the top" of a minimum of one million dollars.

A minimum goal was set for Legion departments, with 32 departments exceeding the goal, which contributed to the national effort, enabling the national organization to exceed one million dollars.

-more- Presentation of one million dollars to American Cancer Society, page 2 0l7o

"Our sincere effort was to collect enough money to provide those people engaged in cancer research to take the final step — finding the cure for cancer and to help 'wipe out cancer in our lifetime' " Commander Wiles said.

(A listing of cancer fund donations by departments is listed in this edition of ALNS, which also indicates those departments that ex- ceeded their minimum goal as of July 30, 1976.) . -alns-

For release 8-24-76

SEATTLE, WASH."(ALNS)—-"There is only so much we in the Congress can do. To accomplish our mutual goals, we must have the support of veterans' organizations such as The American Legion," Congressman Ray Roberts, chairman of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee, said here.

Speaking before the Legion's Veterans' Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission, Roberts said: "A good example of this these past two years is connected with the issue to extend the ten year delimiting date for entitlement to veterans' education benefits.

"The American Legion has stood tall during this period with your unequivocal opposition to any extension... The opposition of The American Legion has been most effective in the efforts of our committee to keep this legislation from going forward."

Roberts pointed out that there is a "well-organized nationwide campaign of veteran program administrators on college campuses financed by HEW funds which is leading the fight to extend the delimiting date."

The House Veterans Affairs Chairman pointed out further that he t and the Legion were "extremely concerned with the welfare of the widows and children of the 55,000 Vietnam veterans killed during the war" and the general welfare of the Vietnam era veteran and of all veterans. >• -alns- Close of Business County *Exceeded Quota i) 174 Legion jJuly 30, 1976 District Individuals Quota for Departments Or Post Legion Auxiliary TOTAL Minimum Goal I ALABAMA $ 546.73 $ 9,633.42 $ 3,575.40 § 1,202.60 $ 14,958.2*$ 9,350.00 r 1,768.42 /'.A \y :■. 2,859.00 1,284.00 449.00 6,360.47 1.200.00 !■}' r ZONA J 810.10 3.565.53 3,317.83 2,305.15 9,998.61 6,600.00 "'JtKANSAS 73.75 3,521.79 4,696.25 2,173.70 10,460.49^ 10.600.00 CALIFORNIA 410.10 3,754.98 23,355.37 8,76fi.5n 36,288.95 40.000.00 1 ANAL ZONE 373.50 790.68 325.00 36.20 1.525.38! 300.00 "COLORADO 249.00 5,725.60 4,631.96 2,170.97 12,755. 53* 7,000.00 CONNECTICUT 677.?? 858.00 3.517.50 1.562.79 6.615.51 10.000.00 DELAWARE 160.nn 155.00 lr334.50 481.50 2.131.00 2.000.00 -D.C. 97.00 1,499.15 2.943.50 686.80 5.226.47 2.500.00 FLORIDA 15,705.]9 17,851.60 10.097.51 3.224.85 46,879.19* 20.000.00 GEORGIA 1,664.29 21,787.12 5.896.22 2,443.00 31,790.63" 15.000.00 HAWAII 556.3S 783.50 540.50 1,880.35* 1,500.00 /DAHO 210.40 1.620.00 1.180.60 3,011.00" 2.000.00 '.LLINOIS 337.00 4,599.70 16.504.95 6.382.85 27,824.50 60,000.00 "•.At) I ANA 2,045.00 22,693.17 llr749.83 5.645.54 42.133.54" 42.000.00 /OWA 2,026.15 8.581.81 11.022.50 5.067.94 26,698.40 33,000.00 ANSAS 1,128.00 3r 96.3.00 8.610.17 4,932.35 18,633.52 20,000.00 'ENTUCKY 1,055.00 15,942.25 3.850.30 3.894.17 24.741.72" 10,000.00 .OUISIANA 2,901.00 1,571.82 5.813.85 2,105.70 12,392.37 17,000.00 1AINE 233.on 2r721.69 2.595.22 1.695.87 7,245.78 8,000.00 MARYLAND 19,505.60 683.00 9f661.45 3.544.25 26,394.30" 18.000.00 "MASSACHUSETTS 4,373.00 1,513.00 10.268.04 5.408.50 21,562.54 25,000.00 MICHIGAN 307.nn 5f872.74 8.793.08 4.967.07 19,939.89 25.000.00 MINNESOTA 1,223.00 4r575.00 15.982.34 7.596.20 29,376.54 40,000.00 MISSISSIPPI 6,457.90 283.00 2.790.60 512.75 10,044.25' 8,500.00 MISSOURI 226.00 14,517.73 10.613.33 4.643.53 30,000.59" 20.500.00 MONTANA 93.?s 545.9.3 2.174.00 1.005.50 3,818.68 4.250.00 .NEBRASKA 5,123.00 4r318.55 9.693.75 4.987.94 24,123.24' 21,000.00 NEVADA 793.05 122.00 863.75 626.05 2,335.65* 1.200.00 "DJSW HAMPSHIRE 3,216.50 449.67 2.587.40 2.032.35 8,285.92* 7,250.00 JERSEY 1,821.78 39,311.68 14.003.70 13.168.32 68,365.98* 1 25,500.00 NEW MEXICO 968.33 2r718.00 1.450.00 2.628.09 7,764.42' 3,500.00 ftEW YORK 27r748.92 50.692.78 54.218.72 8.587.65 141,248.07* 70,000.00 NQRTH CAROLINA 10,833.21 5.401.10 4.737.50 1,368.50 22,340.39' 15,500.00 NORTH DAKOTA 75.00 2.246.00 5.348.85 2,379.07 10,058.92 12,000.00 JHIO 10,879.95 33.118.41 16.318.45 13.103.94 73,420.75' 43,000.00 " fJLAHOMA 1.146.94 5.707.75 2J.22.00 8,966.65 14.250.00 OREGON 396.00 2.362.65 4.108.35 3,988.20 10,855.2tf 7,500.00 .'ENNSYLVANIA 105.00 3,079.75 22.047.03 9,423.08 34,654.86 90,000.00 .'aERTO RICO 8.00 - 79.00 3.855.27 154.50 4,096.77" 3,750.00 RHODE ISLAND 627.75 250.01 1.498.30 501.20 2,877.26 3.750.00 I .OlITH CAROLINA 1,045.00 2r350.01 2.765.45 1,279.65 7,440.11 7,500.00 -SSUTH DAKOTA 250.00 2r835.30 4.045.00 2.256.70 9,387.00 11,000.00 TENNESSEE 395.77 5.717.74 1,082.00 7,195.51 15,000.00 I'EXAS 1,156.00 11.954.66 8.418.93 5.760.86 27,290.45' 26,000.00 U.;AH 38.55 708.45 795.10 771.05 2,313.15 2,500.00 VERMONT i,02s.on 2r196.00 1.478.50 1,301.49 6,000.99" 4,500.00 VIRGINIA 156.60 2r605.00 5.834.23 1,358.50 9,954.33 10,750.00 WASHINGTON 50.00 2r311.65 8.021.22 2,881.85 13,264.72* 12,000.00 WEST VIRGINIA 311.00 3r499.02 3.336.16 802.50 7,948.68 9,000.00 WISCONSIN 504.00 3.671.40 9.792.35 5?0ia.93 18,960.88 25,000.00 WYOMING 3,199.26 528.00 1.678.00 1,437.50 6,842.76* 3,000.00 .PHILIPPINES 61.00 60.00 121.00 2,250.00 CANADA 11.00 11.00 300.00 • SXICO 108.30 147.50 135.50 391. 30* 400.00 FRANCE 1,88? on 593.00 400.00 50.00 2.925.00* 2,000.00 LTALY 100.00 15.00 115.00 600.00 TOTALS L,028,691.15

017 ESMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For Release 8-24-76

Seattle, Washington—(ALNS)—The Blackwatch Junior Color Guard of Post 78, Auburn, Washington, is the new American Legion National Championship Junior Drum and Bugle Corps, capturing the Musical Spectacular top spot among ten contesting units before a crowd of some five thousand at Seattle Center's High School Memorial Stadium during the 58th annual National Convention.

The Blackwatch tallied a winning score of 72.50 besting the second place Salina Silver Sabres of Post 62, Salina, Kansas, by four points.

No Senior Drum and Bugle Corps competition was held at the 58th National Convention and the Musical Spectacular was confined to the ten junior units.

Complete results of the Junior Competition follow: 1. Blackwatch, Post 78, Auburn, Wash. 72.50 2. Salina Silver Sabres, Post 62, Salina, Kansas 68.50 3. Blue Knights of Colorado, Post 193, Denver, Colorado 65.60 4. Titans, Post 68, Bremerton, Washington 63.60 5. Imperial Dragons, Post 628, Los Angeles, Calif. 61.05 6. Cascades, Post 227, Seattle, Wash. 59.35 7. Conquistadors, Post 410, Daly City, Calif. 53.20 8. 3rd Regiment, Post 180, Milwaukie, Oregon 46.25 9. Highland Regiment, Post 78, Auburn, Wash. 28.60 10. Guardsmen, Post 68, Bremerton, Wash. 28.55

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Seattle, Washington—(ALNS)—The 1976 American Legion Junior Drill Team National Championship was won by LaQuieniean, of Post 639, Los Angeles, California, with a score 74.10 over the Drilletes of Post 228, Los Angeles, California, in a contest in which only those units competed.

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Seattle, Washington—Ding-A-Ling, sponsored by Unit 180, Milwaukie, Oregon with a score of 82.25, won The American Legion's 1976 Senior Drill Team Championship over Anoka Unit 102, Anoka, Minnesota, which scored 74.40, in a two unit contest.

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Seattle, Washington—(ALNS)—The 1976 National Champions of The American Legion Uniformed Groups competition, based on contests conducted at the 1976 National Conven- tion here are: Junior Drum and Bugle Corps, The Blackwatch, Post 78, Auburn, Washington Senior Color Guard, Jersey Chevrons, Post 40, Ridgefield Park, New Jersey* Junior Color Guard, Cascades, Post 227, Seattle, Washington Junior Drill Team, LaQuienian, Post 639, Los Angeles, California Senior Drill Team, Ding-A-Ling, Unit 180, Milwaukie, Oregon Chorus, Singing Legionnaires, Post 15, Sioux Falls, South Dakota* *Indicates successful national title defense -alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeUoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 KSt., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For Release 8-24-76

Seattle, Washington—(ALNS)—The Cascades of American Legion Post 227, Seattle, Washington, have captured the national championship crown of junior color guards during the Legion's 58th National Convention here.

Complete unofficial results of the junior color guard competition are as follows:

PLACE UNIT POST NO. CITY/STATE SCORE 1 Cascades 127 Seattle, Wash. 91.70 2 3rd Regiment 180 Milwaukie, OR 83.00 3 Argonaut Cadets 136 Salem, OR 79.00 -alns-

Seattle, Washington—(ALNS)—The Jersey Chevrons, sponsored by American Legion Post 40, Ridgefield Park, N.J., have retained the championship senior color guard title during the Legion's 58th National Convention here.

Complete unofficial results of the senior color guard competition are as follows:

PLACE UNIT POST NO. CITY/STATE SCORE 1 Jersey Chevrons 40 Ridgefield Park, NJ 90.50 2 Greece Post 468 Rochester, NY 86.95 3 1st National Bank of Chicago 985 Chicago, IL 83.25 4 Diplomats 180 Milwaukie, OR 82.50 5 Sidney American Legion 183 Sidney, NY 81.95 6 Ding-A-Ling 180 Milwaukie, OR 81.70 7 Copper Knights 36 Tucson, AZ 79.30 8 Santiams 51 Lebanon, OR 78.60 9 Lindsay Post 128 Lindsay, CA 78.35 10 Oregon Bicentennial 10 Albany, OR 78.05 11 F. A. McKenzie Post 165 Bayonne, NJ 76.70

-alns- 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For Release 8-24-76

Seattle, Washington—(ALNS)—In one of the liveliest and best covered National Convention city press conferences for a National Commander in many years, the principal matters of interest and those drawing the most questions of the press concerned the slaying of two American Army officers by North Korean communists at Panmunjom, the Panama Canal, and the mysterious illness that claimed the lives of 26 Pennsylvania Legionnaires in July.

National Commander Harry G. Wiles said he was certain the National Convention would consider the "premeditated murder" of American Army officers in the so-called "peace village" at Panmunjom, and said he believed it to be a preconceived act of provocation by the communists for some unknown reason.

On the Panama Canal, he stated the Legion's long-standing position that there should be no surrender of American Sovereignty over the canal and that the United States should continue to provide protection for the canal.

Commander Wiles said he was prep ing to appoint a committee of doctors and other prominent Legionnaires to try to assemble all the facts surrounding the mys- terious illness that struck the Pennsylvania Department Convention in Philadelphia in July, to try to determine what, if any precautions could be taken and to further determine how the families of those who lost their lives and who faced long hospitaliza- tion could best be helped.

Commander Wiles noted The American Legion is having an excellent year from a membership growth standpoint, saying the 1975 final membership total already had been exceeded prior to National Convention time and prospects are good for a 20-year high in national membership this year.

He described some of the Legion and Auxilary major Bicentennial projects including the American Freedom Bell now traveling on the Freedom Train and destined to be pre- sented as a Bicentennial gift to the nation on behalf of the children of America at the conclusion of the train's journey across America and back in December of this year.

He also noted the highly successful cooperative drive by the Legion and the Auxiliary in cooperation with the American Cancer Society, which will result in the contribution of a check in excess of one million dollars to the Cancer Society later in the convention's procedings.

Finally, he called attention to the combined and expanded Boys-Girls Nation projects for 1976 and the fact that a 30-voice chorus chosen from that group would be providing entertainment for both Legion and Auxiliary functions during the course of the Convention.

-alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 0 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For Release 8-24-76

Seattle, Wash.—(ALNS)—"More Americans are thinking America, believing America, living America . . . because discontent with our form of government is abating," Bernard Goldberg, chairman and president of American Distilling Co., told The American Legion's Public Relations Commission here.

Mr. Goldberg said he had the Roper Opinion Research Organization review some positions of The American Legion with regard to patriotism, detente, military pre- paredness, the Panama Canal, amnesty, adjustments in veterans pensions, and the need to protect the Veterans Administration hospital system for veterans only, were some of the positions on which he had sought general public opinion.

Three years ago, he said, some 55 percent of our countrymen were of the opinion our form of government needs to be completely revised or an entirely new form of government devised. Some seventy percent of our people now insist the U.S. has the best form of government in the world, whatever its shortcomings, and among the 17 nations cited in the poll neither Russia nor China got a vote, he continued.

On the Panama Canal, only one out of four wants to modify or liberalize the existing agreement with Panama, and as for amnesty, nearly half the nation, according to Roper, totally disapproved of President Ford's recent amnesty program, and among those who objected the vote was three to one for no amnesty at all.

As for positions of the Legion with regard to veterans benefits there is some- what less general agreement because of a general trend of sentiment toward less govern- ment spending.

While these subjects never have been put directly before the American people in survey form, the general observation is that a trend toward economy in government detracts from their favorable impact which simply means the Legion has to try harder, to present its case effectively, but first of all, to determine that any position the Legion adopts is tenable and saleable, and right.

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\ Seattle, Washington—(ALNS)—The Hearst Americanism Trophy for 1976 was won by the Department of Maine, Department Commander Maurice C. Wagner and Sidney H. Schwartz, of Maine and a member of the National Americanism Commission accepting the trophy on the Convention platform.

Robert E. Thompson, publisher, the Seattle Post-Intellegencer, the Hearst outlet in the National Convention city, represented the Hearst organization in making the presentation to the Department of Maine.

The 1976 Frank N. Belgrano Trophy for outstanding achievement in the sponsorship of Scouting, was won by the Department of Wisconsin. The Ralph T. O'Neil trophy for the largest percentage of school medal awards, based on the number of posts within the Department,was won by the Department of Arizona.

-alns EJMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeUoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. El Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 0 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For Release 8- 24-76

SEATTLE, WASH.—(ALNS)—A great deal of the Legion's effort this year has been built around support for America's two hundredth birth- day, American Legion National Commander Harry G. Wiles told the Legion's 1976 National Convention here in his report to the Convention on the state of the Legion at the conclusion of his term of office.

"The American Freedom Train carried a unique contribution from The American Legion and our Auxiliary with the American Freedom Bell financed by contributions of thousands of Legionnaires and Auxiliary members from coast to coast, and many from overseas," the Legion chief noted.

He said that the Bell, which weighs more than eight tons and is twice the size of the Liberty Bell, is to be given by the Legion and Auxiliary as a Bicentennial gift to the nation.

"This was a high profile Bicentennial project and a most success- ful one," the Legion chief added.

The National Commander also pointed out that another high profile project for the Legion and Auxiliary during the Bicentennial had been the organization's cooperative effort with the American Cancer Society to collect money for research in fighting cancer.

"Also at the National level, and designed as an American Legion-- American Legion Auxiliary Bicentennial salute, was the combined and expanded Boys and Girls Nation, 1976," Commander Wiles said.

The Legion chief also noted in his report that the Legion had already surpassed its 1975 membership.

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SEATTLE, WASH.—(ALNS)—"All of us through participation in Legion youth programs gain a deeper understanding of Americanism...a greater appreciation of the blessings we enjoy as Americans," Robert H. Maus, the 1976 American Legion Oratorical Contest winner, told the opening session of the Legion's 58th National Convention here.

As spokesman for five young VIPs representing youth programs spon- sored by the Legion's Americanism Division, Maus expressed his appre- ciation for Legion supported youth activities. The group, all of whom were introduced on the convention platform, consisted of Maus; Vincent Marazita and Christina Jadach of Boys and Girls Nation; Mark Wright, American Legion Boy Scout-of-the-Year; and David Edler, the outstanding player in Legion Baseball.

-alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION- ■THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For Release 8-24-76

Seattle, Washington—(ALNS)—Top Civilian and military leaders of the Department of Defense told The American Legion National Security Commission, in session here for the 58th Annual American Legion National Convention that American military capability soon will fall behind that of the Soviet Union if current adverse trends in U.S. military spending continue.

Assistant Secretary of the Army, Adlai Hull, made that assessment before the Legion commission, stating that for the moment U.S. and Soviet forces are "roughly equivalent."

Rear Admiral Jeffrey Metzel, project for the Navy's Trident submarine system, told the commission the Soviet Union has been making a concerted effort to improve its anti-submarine warfare capability, a capability which poses a direct threat to our own Polaris-Poseidon submarine force.

Admiral Metzel said our submarine missile force must patrol relatively close to the Soviet land mass to keep within range of possible targets. He said development of the Trident system would give our sub-launched missile system greater effective range and should prove a cost effective replacement for our aging system now in use.

General Russell E. Dougherty, commander-in-chief of the Strategic Air Command (SAC), said the nation must move from research and development of the B-l bomber system into the production stage so that the B-l can become a part of our weapon system by 1982.

He noted that production of the bomber is now tied up in a joint conference com- mittee of the House and Senate over an amendment that would defer actual production until after the presidential inauguration next January.

He said the Air Force is pushing hard to have that amendment deleted so the new weapon system can be placed in production sooner.

The General said he was amazed at the groups of people and organizations that have spoken out in opposition to the development of the system and the lack of serious thought and responsible consideration that seem to permeate much of the arguments of the opposition.

The American Legion is on record in support of the development and deployment of both the Trident and the B-l bomber systems at the earliest possible moment.

Lea Kungle, president-elect of the U.S. Civil Defense Council, said one of the top priorities would be to persuade the next President of the United States to provide a more meaningful and competent disaster preparedness system and a reorganized and improved survival planning technique and a more efficient means of nuclear protection for all citizens of the nation.

Kungle also called upon the Legion to continue to support an improved total disaster preparedness system for all the American people.

-alns- 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 KSt., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For Release 8-24-76

Seattle, Wash.--(ALNS)—Some 75,000 Seattle and Washington resi- dents and Convention delegates and guests thronged Seattle's Fourth Avenue on a cool Sunday afternoon and early evening and were thrilled by the four and one-half-hour 58th National Convention parade, the largest in Seattle's history.

Led by the military escort division that took more than a half hour to pass in review, every Department of The American Legion was represented in the line of march that was generously sprinkled with the uniformed groups that participated in competition earlier in the con- vention city.

Dignitaries who joined National Commander Harry G. Wiles on the reviewing stand to take the salute of the units passing in review were transported to the stand in classic antique cars,adding a new and glamor- ous touch to an already sparkling spectacle.

Rear Admiral William H. Harris, USN, Commander, Attache Tactical Electronic Warfare Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet, parade grand marshal, and other Legion and military dignitaries including other Legion National officers and Past National Commanders were among distinguished guests on the reviewing stand.

The parade stepped off promptly and smartly at 3 p.m. and the final units of the host department marching delegation cleared the reviewing station and completed the one-mile march of the parade route at approximately 7:30 p.m.

Enthusiastic parade watchers gave generous applause to many of the marching units and the many outstanding musical groups in the line of march as well as to the dignitaries as they were announced to the crowd from the reviewing stand.

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Seattle, Wash.--(ALNS)--"Our heritage of faith is one of the great- est heritages any peoples of the world have ever been the recipients of," American Legion National Chaplain, the Rev. Claude E. Smithmier told delegates attending a memorial ceremony conducted by The American Legion and its Auxiliary at one of the opening events of the Legion's 58th National Convention here.

In a dramatic setting by the side of a full scale replica of the Tomb of the Unknowns, and with honor guards from Ft. Lewis, Washington Legion National Commander Harry G. Wiles and Auxiliary National President Mrs. Alan Schanel, led their respective organizations in the Convention's traditional patriotic religious service held in the Plaza Ballroom of the Washington Plaza Hotel. During the ceremony, those who died of a

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Patriotic religious service, page 2

mysterious disease in Philadelphia, following a Legion state convention, were memorialized.

In addition to Legion National Chaplain Smithmier, who delivered the memorial message, Fr. Paul J. Schwab, Legion Past National Chaplain gave the invocation while Past National Chaplains Rabbi David Lefkowitz, Rev. L. P. Fitzpatrick and Rev. Jerome D. Fortenberry read the Holy Scriptures. Rev. James C. Tuxbury, said the benediction while Mrs. Clarence Engh, National Chaplain of the American Legion Auxiliary gave the memorial prayer.

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Seattle, Wash.--(ALNS)--A Pennsylvania Legionnaire and a Kentucky Auxiliary member are the proud owners of new automobiles as the result of the annual Seagram Posts Ford Awards made at The American Legion's 58th National Convention here. They are Matthew Daulerio of Post 366, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Rose E. Bauder of Man 0' War Unit, Lexington, Kentucky.

-alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 0 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For Release 8-26-76

Seattle, Wash.,--(ALNS)--William J. Rogers, 55, of Kennebunk, Maine, was elected National Commander of The American Legion for 1976-77 at the closing session of the Legion's 58th Annual National Convention here today.

The first Pine Tree State Legionnaire to be elected to the top position in the world's largest veterans organization, he succeeds Harry G. Wiles, of Topeka, Kans., as American Legion National Commander.

A member of New Auburn Post No. 153, of The American Legion, Auburn, Maine, since 1946, he is a veteran of World War II and served as a Naval aviator in the Asiatic Pacific Theater where he earned the Navy Air Medal, Presidential Unit Citation and the Asiatic Pacific Theater Medal prior to his separation from active duty in 19.45 with the rank of Lieutenant Senior Grade. He still is a member of the U.S. Navy Inactive Reserve.

Born in Auburn, Oct. 30, 1920, he attended public schools there and was graduated from New Hampton Prep School, New Hampton, New Hampshire, in 1939. From 19 39 until 1942 he attended Syracuse University, where he lettered in football, baseball and boxing. He left school and his studies in business administration at the completion of his junior year to enter military service in World War II.

On return to civilian life following World War II he became a field representative for the Maine Employment Security Commission, a position which he occupied from 1946 to 1954, when he became assistant superin- tendent of Bonafide Mills, Inc. During this period he also took special courses at Yale University.

In 1958 he became associated with United States Brewers Association, Inc., of Washington, D.C., a trade association representing about ninety percent of United States beer production, and still serves that organiza- tion as Vice President for Governmental Relations.

Commander Rogers has been active in civic affairs, having served as a director of Auburn Growth Corporation, as a member of the National Council of the USO, District Director of Boy Scouts of America and Assis- tant State Chairman of the Cancer Society, and a member of the Governor's Committee to Keep Maine Scenic.

He also was a director of the Maine State Chamber of Commerce and director of the Pine Tree Society for Crippled Children and Adults.

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William J. Rogers elected American Legion National Commander, Cont'd.

< ^In»?,ddlti0n t0 h±S Amerlcan Legion membership, he also is a member of the Elks Veterans of Foreign Wars, Auburn Exchange Club, Syracuse University Varsity Club and Webhannet Country Club. Syracuse

Commander Rogers served his local American Legion post as service officer, adjutant, vice commander and commander, before moving on to positions of increasing responsibility in the Legion at the state and national levels of the organization.

H Served s Second a , , * * District Commander of the Department of Maine, and later served as Department Vice Commander and in 1955-56 served as name Department Commander. He also served The American LeiLegion of Maine as chairman of its Rehabilitation and Service Committee, and as a member of its Child Welfare and Executive Committees.

Nationally, he has served as Maine's Alternate National Executive Committeeman and as Committeeman, and has served as Chairman of the National Distinguished Guest Committee, a member of the liaison committee to the National Public Relations Commission and in 1965-66 as National Vice Com- iua.nQ. £ r •

He was serving as a member of the National Commander's advisory c ommittee up until the time of his election to the office of National Commander.

He is married to the former Constance Bearce and they are the parents of four children, three sons and a daughter.

-alns- Seattle—(ALNS)—Jamie Weaver, ten-year-old, 1976 March of Dimes Poster Child, literally stood the delegates to the 58th Annual American Legion National Convention, being held here, on their collective ears. Born without eyes, Miss Jamie has a rare birth defect known as congenital anophthalmos. She wears artificial blue-green plastic eyes.

Jamie has not let her blindness restrict her in any way. She takes lessons in swimming, piano, skiing and horseback riding. The peppy, freckled redhead enjoys listening to music and not unlike any other youngsters her age, she likes the more up-to-date musical groups.

Jamie presented a special citation to National Commander Harry G. Wiles of The American Legion in appreciation of the Legion's long time support of the March of Dimes. Jamie concluded her presentation with a song to the more than 10,000 assembled Legion delegates, spouses, and friends, singing "Follow Me." A standing, five minute, tearful ovation followed Jamies' appearance.

-alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 KSt., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 0 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For release 8-26-76

Seattle, Wash. —(ALNS)—Other National officers of The American Legion for 1976-77, elected by the 1976 National Convention in addition to the new National Commander are: National Vice Commanders Frank A. Kelly, of Savannah, Ga.; Robert B. Grauberger, of Haxtun, Colo.; Wilbur Walker, of Richmond, Va.; Thomas B. Coll, of Adelphi, Md., with membership in the District of Columbia, and Lloyd J. Berken, of Appleton, Wis. The 1976-77 National Chaplain, appointed by the new National Commander with approval of the National Executive Committee as provided under new procedures for selection of the National Chaplain approved by this year's National Convention, is Father James Tuxbury, of New England, N.D., pastor of Sts. Peter and Paul Church at Amidon, N.D., and associate pastor of St. Mary's Parish at New England.

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Seattle, Wash. —(ALNS)—The new National President of the American Legion Auxi- liary for 1976-77 is Mrs. Paul (Norma) Brown, of Route 1, Filer, Idaho, who was elected at the Auxiliary's 1976 National Convention here.

Named to serve with Mrs. Brown are Mrs. Alvin (Viola) Moltzen, of P. 0. Box 13, New Salem, N.D., National Vice President, and the following Division Vice Presi- dents: Mrs. Kenneth (Alberta) Rhea, of Crawfordsville, Iowa, Central Division; Mrs. Rocco (Helen) Fioramonti, 2913 Meadow Lane, Falls Church, Va., with membership in the District of Columbia, Eastern Division; Mrs. Frederick (Betty) Hemphill, 2207 Sheridan, Laramie, Wyo., Northwestern Division; Mrs. Luz (Maria) Rodriguez, Calle 1-SE No. 906, Reporto Metropolitano, Puerto Rico, Southern Division; Mrs. C. Clark (Edith) Bonner, P. 0. Box 11+78, Lyman, Utah, Western Division; National Chaplain Mrs. Hans (Florence) Lemcke, 291*6 Madora Ct. S.E., Olympia, Wash., and Mrs. Ralph (Cathy) Fluys, Box 1693, Great Falls, Mont., Historian.

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Seattle, Wash.—(ALNS)—Harry G. Wiles, National Commander of the 2.7 million member American Legion, presented the Fourth Estate Award to Mr. Thomas P. Chisman, producer of the Bicentennial Radio Network, during the Legion's 58th Annual National Convention, being held here.

Chisman created the Bicentennial Radio Network to report the day-by-day story of the American Revolution covering the historical events of that time period including military, political, economic, social and human endeavors.

Mr. Chisman on accepting the award said, "The Bicentennial Radio Network was developed to tell the nation of the exploits of the founders of America." He added, "The study and understanding of the history of this country is absolutely necessary for the continued growth and prosperity of us all."

The Bicentennial Radio Network was created on more than 1,100 radio stations around the world. The special two-to-two-and-one-half minute broadcasts have been used on TV stations, public and private schools, colleges and universities.

-alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE ■ NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION-THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoaoh, Chairman James c Wa(kins p,,^

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For Release 8-26-76

Seattle, Wash. —(ALNS)—Veteran entertainmentLn enc star Pat n'R^.n veteran of World War I service with t-h* IT *- ™ star Pat 0 Brien, a

, , t d o emoti ■»■- °° th. i:«.Vi i::1.::rs«^;a Pj::f;s .j.j:." °" '«-< O'Brlln'L'H6 S"^d "aS Presented b7 National Commander Harry G. wiles chroujnorm; 77".:,:!"' '" """"«*' "' ••«* 5 —e received1"'

slneeHx927nst„r"tust b^ '"" "V" """ * memb" °f Ihe American Legion and thirL^rnirr.ond^frnrnighll0^!!;6 Ameri"" ^^ '« » -»«

1 , h r n d 1 , d! Ihi8 aii «..«". .... :.s :i:.m"...%j.s-: :.t" i: 1m::- " - •'"•■*"•

Following the dinner progra xm Commander Wiles thanked O'Brien by saying.ig : "II was proud and pleased to have nominated you for our 1976 Dis- tlnguished Service Award ■ Pl^sed wiathetheCse li:tion?" "'" ^ ^ ^^ ' *» «™ =•«

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Seattle, Wash.--(ALNS)--National Commanderr Harrv c mio a check for Si 09ft fioi u , r> „ , Harry o. Wiles presented uuecK ror :?! , u^S , 691. 15, to Dr. Benjamin F. Byrd, president nf rh. 6 : ^iJi-^rnnd-raisinrcampanrrr-Lry raising campaign to help wipe ?•"«"* out cancer ""'"ions in our lifetimes." ^ion-

A Bicentennial year special project of the Legion and the Auxiliary . the funds realized through the campaign are dedicated to research to ' ■ a^tec^noL^y^^rso^on^3 ^^ ^^ "" h" ^^^^science

C a Wa8 billed aS The American MuxiliL%^1clL:ti%■ Se ; *7 1 ~ rof^War^ -a^Sai^nst cancer,- and was concluded withUg±— the ■Seattle National Convention, although funds raised by the drive and not -yet transmitted to National Headquarters will continue to be received

-alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 KSt., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For release 8-26-76 Seattle, Wash.—(ALNS)—V.A. Administrator Richard L. Roudebush told American Legion Convention delegates here that Veterans Admini- stration hospitals "will serve only those who have served their country."

However, in news interviews with Seattle newsmen following his platform appearance, Mr. Roudebush said it would be extremely diffi- cult to maintain VA hospitals should alternative free care become avail- able .

The administrator's answer to newsmen's inquiries points up the importance of continued vigilance on the part of The American Legion to be alert to any proposed national health care program that would dilute or detract from the present VA hospital-medical care system established for veterans at the insistence of veterans after many years of diligent effort following World War I.

Mr. Roudebush noted the gains that have been made in increasing the funding for VA administered programs during the two years he has been in his present position, and The American Legion has supported the cause of adequate funding for many years.

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Seattle, Wash.--(ALNS)--Robert Halverson Maus, a native of the National Convention's host state of Washington, but now residing in Honolulu, told convention delegates here that it was a singular thrill for him to join the ranks of American Legion Oratorical Contest winners, particularly in this Bicentennial year of 1976.

Young Maus, the 1976 Oratorical champion, responded to the intro- duction on the convention platform by National Commander Harry G. Wiles, of the outstanding participants in the Legion's youth programs including, in addition to Maus: David D. Edler, of Yakima, Wash., 1975 American Legion Baseball player-of-the-year; Mark Aaron Wright, of Bartelsville, Okla., Legion Scout-of-the-year; Vincent Marazita, of Lansing, Mich., president of the 1976 Boys-Girls Nation program, and Christina Jadach, of Royal Oak, Mich., speaker of the house of the 1976 Boys-Girls Nation program.

"While the Legion's youth programs operate in different fields, the ultimate objectives are surprisingly similar. They are designed to stimulate the spirit that is uniquely American," the young orator told his warmly appreciative audience.

-alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION- ■THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeUoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 0 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811 For Release 8-26-76

Seattle, Wash.--(ALNS)--Amid shouts of "No! No! from a Legion audience, Jimmy Carter, Democratic Presidential nominee, told delegates at the 58th National Convention of The American Legion that he intended to grant a "blanket pardon" to all draft dodgers.

Speaking at the Seattle Center Coliseum here, August 24, Carter said: "I do not favor a blanket amnesty, but for those who violated Selective Service laws, I intend to a grant a blanket pardon.

"To me, there is a difference. Amnesty means that what you did is right. A pardon means that what you did--right or wrong--is forgiven. So, pardon--yes; amnesty--no."

For deserters, Carter said, "each case should be handled on an individual basis in accordance with our nation's system of military justice. "

Carter told the Legionnaire delegates that if he became President, the American veteran, of all ages, of all wars is going to have a friend, a comrade and a firm ally in the White House.

On the subject of defense, Carter said: "We must maintain adequate military strength compared to that of our potential adversaries by a commitment to necessary military expenditures; by elimination of waste, duplication among forces, excessive personnel costs, by unnecessary new weapon systems and inefficient contracting procedures.

"I would never again see our country become militarily involved in the internal affairs of another country unless our own security was directly threatened. But it is imperative that the world know that we will meet obligations and commitments to our allies and that we will keep our nation strong," Carter added.

Turning to the subject of employment of disabled veterans, Carter said that despite the mandates of the law many federal departments and agencies have few disabled veterans serving with them. "The record of placement in private sector jobs and training has been no better," he continued.

Carter, who is a member of American Legion Post 2, of Americus, Ga., was well received by Legionnaires on all points of his speech, except his statement favoring a pardon for all draft dodgers.

-alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 KSt., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 0 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For release 8-26-76

Seattle, Wash.—(ALNS)—Lillian Cleveland, of Punta Gorda, Fla., was elected president of the National American Legion Press Associ- ation for 1976-77 during NALPA's annual business meeting conducted in conjunction with the 1976 American Legion National Convention here.

Other new NALPA officers to serve with her are: vice presidents, Area 1, Ely Bar, Far Rockaway, N.Y.; Area 2, Dorothy M. Dolle, Louis- ville, Ky.; Area 3, Robert J. Bayer, Bloomington, 111.; Area 4, Tom Wheeler, of Plainview, Tex.

Frank J. Giambra, of Tonawanda, N.Y., was re-elected secretary- treasurer. Chaplain is Rev. L. P. Fitzpatrick, of Coin, Iowa; historian, Mary Howard, of Augusta, Ga.; sergeant-at-arms, Austin McElfish, of Waco, Tex.; counselor to department publications, Lillian Cleveland, and judge advocate, William Chester, Louisville, Ky.

Executive board members are: Jack Curran, Plymouth, Mass Ed Bahret, of Nakomis, Fla.; Paul Heckman, Marshaltown, Iowa; Alvin Krank, Los Angeles, Calif., and Arthur McDowell, Indianapolis, Ind., execu- tive board member-at-large.

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Seattle, Wash.—(ALNS)—A. S. Santos, of the Philippines, was elected 1976-77 president of the Foreign Outlying Departments and Posts of The American Legion at t he Annual FODPAL breakfast conducted here in conjunction with the 58th Annual National Convention. He succeeds Helmut Spangenthal, of F ranee, as president.

Other officers elected are: F rank C. Bottlgliero, Italy, first vice-president; Gordon Ballantyne , Mexico, second vice president; Robert A. Martinez, Panama C.Z., treasurer; C. Alvin Hoffman, Mexico, chaplain; Hugh Jamieson, Canada, historian; John F. Foster, Panama C.Z., judge advocate, and Albert Triona, Italy, sergeant-at-arms.

President Santos appointed the following officers for the coming year: Col. Ernesto P. Golez, Philippines, secretary; Mrs. Mary B. Howard, of Georgia, recording secretary, and assistant sergeant-at- arms and assistant treasurer, Grandin Drake, Panama, C.Z.

-alns- ESMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS GJ P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For Release 8-26-76

Seattle, Wash.--(ALNS)--"No blanket pardon, no blanket amnesty, no blanket clemency for draft dodgers" Sen. Robert Dole, Republican vice presidential candidate, promised delegates at the 58th American Legion National Convention here.

Sen. Dole, a disabled combat veteran of World War II, said that President Ford's position on the issue is "unequivocal -- and applies equally to draft evaders and deserters."

Cheered on by the enthusiastic applause of Legionnaire delegates, Dole said: "President Ford extended the hand of mercy to those who fled America when she needed their service. He offered them a chance to earn clemency by proving their right to resume their place in this nation. The offer was extended to draft evaders and deserters alike, on a case-by-case basis. Some accepted. Some refused. As far as I know, the effort is finished.

"Yesterday, one of your speakers stated: 'I do not favor a blanket amnesty, but for those who violated selective service laws, I intend to grant a blanket pardon.'

"I am confused by such semantics. Webster's New World Dictionary makes no such distinction. It defines amnesty as a general pardon."

In the early portion of his speech, Sen. Dole noted that the Presi- dent's budget called for a record high of four billion dollars to pro- vide medical care for veterans and almost eight million dollars for disability compensation, death benefits and pensions to veterans and survivors. He pointed out further that some five billion dollars is spent for G.I. Bill education and training.

Dole also noted that the President opposed extending benefits to Post-Vietnam peacetime veterans. "To provide benefits to them could re- duce the funds available to our war veterans. This we will not do, " he added.

On the subject of defense, Dole said: "I would rather spend a million dollars, or a billion dollars, to preserve peace, than to expend a single life to pursue war. If that is callous indifference, let those who favor weakening our defense posture make the most of it."

■alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION —THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins. Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For Release 8-26-76 Seattle--(ALNS)--Action by Legion delegates attending the 58th National Convention of The American Legion here indicate that the Panama Canal problem, improvement of the death and disability pension program for veterans, widows and children, and a need for federal and state em- ployment services to increase services to disabled veterans are of chief interest to Legionnaires now.

The resolutions adopted by the delegates at the 58th National Con- vention will guide their organization during the coming year. The resolu- tions appear by commission.

FOREIGN RELATIONS RES. 90—That the U.S. must be vigilant against all efforts to surrender any of the U.S. sovereignty or jurisdiction in the Panama Canal Zone or over the Panama Canal obtained under the 1903 Treaty with the Re- public of Panama, as amended and revised in 1936 and 1955; and should in no way cede, dilute, forfeit, negotiate or transfer any of the U.S. sovereign rights, power, authority, jurisdiction, territory or properties directly or indirectly or by subterfuge all of which are indispensibly necessary for the protection of the U.S. and the Western Hemisphere, and that The American Legion reaffirm its opposition to new treaties or executive agreements with Panama that would in any way reduce our indis- pensable control over the U.S. owned Canal or Canal Zone. Also, urge the immediate resumption of the modernization of the present Panama Canal as provided under the current legislative measures for the Terminal Lake- Third Lock.

RES.392--Supports the retention of the Byrd Amendment allowing the purchase of chrome from Rhodesia rather than Communist Russia, and further supports the lifting of sanctions against Rhodesia to encourage that country to continue to develop its natural resources for the benfit of the free world and the betterment of Rhodesian citizens, both black and white.

RES. 419—Support our continued security relationship with the Republic of Korea as a crucial element in maintaining military balance, peace and stability on the Korean peninsula, and in that Western Pacific region as a whole, including Japan.

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VETERANS AFFAIRS AND REHABILITATION RES. 39—SeeK legislation to improve the death and disability pension program for veterans of World War I, World War II. the Korean and Vietnam Wars, and for their widows and children. RES. 20—Urge the VA to notify all NSLI policy holders of waiver of premium provisions of their contracts. RES. 108—Support legislation to amend 38 USC 620 so as to to nine°mo^thsty nursing home care at Veterans Administration expense

ECONOMICS -!???* 77^~ASv-,f!dera:L and state emPloyment services to increase serviceseow +to disabled veterans and older veterans. RES. 186—Reaffirm opposition to any and all attempts to weaken or reduce veterans rights and benefits in federal employment. ^ TO5? IAmend the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act. of L973 so as to insure the inclusion of veteran preference in all contracts issued to state and local governments. RES. 478—Support legislation for a cut-off date for eligibility for veterans preference in federal employment. -alns- 019o AMERICANISM

The National Americanism Commission, reporting to the 58th Annual National Conven- tion, convening in Seattle, touched on many issues of importance to not only Legion- naires, but all Americans as well. Among the more important resolutions offered to the delegates, which were acted on unanimously include:

To resolve that The American Legion continue to support the Federal Bureau of Investigation as it continues to intensify its legal and proper programs of lawful surveillance and reporting upon parties and groups and individuals whose actions are inimical to the domestic security of the United States.

To resolve that The American Legion seek appropriate legislation which will restore May 30, and "only that date" to be designated and proclaimed as "Memorial Day" throughout our land and observed as a national holiday.

Resolved, that The American Legion go on record as being unalterably opposed to any change in our (America's) National Anthem.

^Resolved, that The American Legion opposes the enactment of "A Declaration of INTERdependence" by the United States of America, and further opposes the introduc- tion of same into the school system as part of a thirteen-year long Bicentennial program.

The National Children & Youth Commission in reporting to the 58th Annual National Convention in Seattle, said that since the founding of The American Legion, more than 330 million dollars has been expended by the Legion in supporting Children & Youth activities.

The Children & Youth Commission also reported to the convention resolutions dealing with youth problems and which were adopted unanimously. Among the more important is issues were the concern of the commission over the deteriorating control over the spread of venereal disease among the youth of America. The commission also reaffirmed the Legion's support of the necessary legislation to assist financially those indi- vidual families faced by catastrophic illness of one of their children in order to maintain the integrity of the family.

School lunch programs also came under the scrutiny of the Children & Youth Com- mission, which was unanimously endorsed by the delegates. The commission recommended action by the U.S. Congress and various state legislatures to appropriate sufficient funds for school nutrition programs to reflect the increased cost of food and to pro- vide for needed facilities and trained personnel for the purpose of conducting an adequate school lunch program.

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