Dan Dellinger Past National Commander Will Be a Special Guest in January During the Illinois American Legion Family Caravan

American Legion Department of Illinois

2014—2015 Department Commander Hank Robards DECEMBER 2014

Dan Dellinger Past National Commander Will be a Special Guest in January during the Illinois American Legion Family Caravan

Dan Dellinger of Vienna, Va., was elected National Commander of the 2.4 million-member American Legion on Aug. 29, 2013 in Houston, during the 95th national convention of the nation’s largest veterans organization.

As of He became an Army Infantry officer after graduating with a degree in criminology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. He served at Fort November 26, 2014 Benning, Ga., during the Vietnam War and entered the U.S. Army Reserve in 1972, separating from the service in 1984 at the rank of captain. A member of the Dyer-Gunnell American Legion Post 180 in Vienna since 1982, he was made a life member in 1990. He has served as Post, District and Department commander and chaired numerous committees. At the national District Commander level, he chaired the Legislative, National Security, and Economics Commissions 7 LAMPERT as well as the Aerospace Committee. He served as Chairman of the Legislative 23 HARRIS Council and Membership and Post Activities Committee. He has been a member of the Foreign Relations Council, Policy Coordination, Veterans Planning and 21 NARGELENAS Coordinating Committees as well as the Legislative Council. 11 STIEG Dellinger is a member of the Sons of the American Legion, Past Commanders 8 MC NELLIS and Adjutants Club, Past Department Commander’s Club, ANAVICUS and the 13 GROHARING Citizens Flag Alliance. He has served as a presidential appointee on the Federal Taskforce on SBA Hiring and as vice mayor of the Town of Vienna, Virginia as 17 MATHENY well as serving three terms as town councilman. He is a member of the Loyal 12 ABDELNOUR Order of the Moose and the Loyal Order of the Kentucky Colonels. 18 DUDLEY He led The American Legion’s efforts to correct problems in the Veterans 15 SCHLIEPER Administration Health care system. Calling for the resignation of the director and senior officials. Division Commander He owned and operated a construction management and general contracting 2 GEESEY firm for twenty years specializing in commercial, institutional and industrial 4 BUSKE construction. 3 WALSTON Cmdr. Dellinger’s theme is "Building for Tomorrow – Today." 1 GRAHAM, III 5 JANCEK

Department of Illinois ~ Official Member of The National American Legion Press Association

On Sunday, November 9th I was at On Wednesday, the 19th I attended a Veterans Appreciation Day in Anna the Legislative meeting at Depart- and the guest speaker was a retired ment. They are efficient and getting female Vice-Admiral. She did an out- things done. standing job. Everyone have a Happy Thanksgiving. On Veterans Day, I was in Monticello November started off with the for their celebration. I was the guest speaker and boy was it cold. One and Haven Jamboree in Carbondale. I want a half hours on a flatbed trailer is to thank everyone who made the trip tough. Remember who made this year’s Jamboree suc- The 12th thru the 15th I was in cessful. Springfield for another revitalization at On Monday the 3rd of November, I Post 32. There were quite a few posts traveled to Cisna Park for a meeting Each One that were there to help. That’s what and was very impressed with the turn- makes them successful. out. Plus the hospitality was second to Saturday I left for Sesser to see if I none. could get them certified. On Sunday Teach One November 5th thru 8th we had a at 1:00 pm they were certified. The revitalization in the Kankakee area. members plus some new were excited On Saturday, November 8th I was in about getting the post started again Du Quoin Post for an Early Bird Dinner. under new leadership.

long or not. Personal contact is often All Commanders, Sr Vice Command- the difference maker. Tell them we ers and Jr Vice Commanders are lead- need them as a member to not only ers. Have fun in your role as a leader, support our great Legion programs but enjoy what you do but don’t forget to insure the protection of our brother who you are. and sister Veterans and their families A special thanks to Post 1922 for ongratulations to the seven who are in need. inviting me to their get together and a C Districts who have reached or You may be surprised also to find job well done to Commander Matt for exceeded 80% in membership as of that many unsigned Veterans have reaching 100%. I must also recognize this writing. I know there are other questions regarding VA & R, should 21st District Commander Nargelenas hard working District Commanders that be the case be sure that a service who’s District includes Post 1922, for who are dedicated in reaching the officer is in contact with that Veteran his 3rd place standing in Membership. 105% membership goal and I believed at the earliest possible opportunity. I attended two Veterans Day cere- they will. Don’t slow down on membership monies at Lincoln and Meehan Ele- The Department has done four revi- efforts. District Commanders and mentary schools in Belvidere. Words talizations so far this year. They have Officers, call and if necessary visit can’t describe what the kids put to- been successful but the key to contin- troubled Posts. I’ll repeat what I’ve gether for Veterans and they enjoy ued success is following up. Without it said before; Membership is every doing it. The Principles and Teachers all the time and energy put in is wast- officer’s job. This isn’t the time to sit all have my greatest respect and grati- ed. The same can be said on every lev- back and let someone else do the tude. FANTASTIC! el from Post, County, District and Divi- work, it’s time to step up, work to- Wishing you and your sion. If you can’t reach a renewable gether and get the job done. member by phone make the visit. “The quality of a leader is reflected loved ones a very Merry Many Legionnaires have stopped pay- in the standards they set for them- Christmas and Happy ing dues because they feel no one at selves” Ray Kroc the local level cares whether they be- New Year.

DECEMBER 2014 American Legion Department of IL - Department News Page 2

The kids are running amuck and need I had the opportunity to attend the some parental guidance. Contact our SAL Hall of Fame induction ceremony in Sr. Vice Commander Bill Geary at Pasadena, CA. Our own Father Gary [email protected] or 847-508-8102 Gummersheimer was inducted. What a for assistance. great program the Pasadena American Now for the good news, HEY! Legion Family put on. Thanks to Gene bring you holiday greetings from Steger Squadron #521 will be present- Sacco and everyone involved. I the Sons of the American Legion. ed with their charter as soon as we As we turn to the holiday season, We thank you for your service and can schedule a date. Thawville Post let us give thanks to those who have sacrifice. It was nice to see a lot of the 700, 18th District, 4th Division, has been protected and our currently protecting American Legion Family posting their mailed a starter kit along with several this great nation. Let’s not forget those involvement on Facebook on Veterans others Posts. We thank everyone less fortunate, those recuperating in Day. Happy belated birthday to the involved in these endeavors. our Veterans hospitals and communi- Marine Corp. Did you know that the current ties. Let’s start out with the not so good membership for the Central Region of From the Sons, we wish each and news and work our way to the good the SAL comprises 38.5% of the total every one of you and your families a news. Did you know the 2nd, 3rd, 15th, national SAL membership, something Merry Christmas and a Happy New and 20th SAL Districts are not certified to be proud of. Illinois stands at Year. and approximately 36 squadrons are 47.93% a little bit behind the Auxiliary Remember “When it MUST BE DONE, not certified? Many have not sent in for that gentleman’s/ladies bet for Call the SONS” one membership card! I am asking for highest membership at Patriotic Never Forget 9-11-01 your help as our parent organization. Conference in March.

posts/units/squadrons/county groups Enjoy the Holiday Season, don’t rush across the state. My husband, Bill, so much to get everything done, that and I attended the Clinton County you can’t enjoy watching the little ones Veterans Day program in the morning eyes light up at the sight of the holiday and Piatt County Veterans Day decorations, or be able to read them ecember! The holiday program in the evening. Both were stories of the first Christmas, or holy D season is here already! That well attended by members of the day of your faith. Be kind and friendly, means helping with Christmas Gift American Legion Family. even when shopping, whether at a Shops and remembering our veterans, I’ve invited our unit/district/division department store or retail home active military and their families. members to publicize their fund improvement store! Your smile might Please check the November issue of raisers on our website. And have just make someone’s day a little better the ALA Today for gift shop dates. My asked them to please remember to and less stressful. And what better gift plan is to visit as many of the gift shops send it to us early enough, before the to give, than a sincere smile and as possible, and, hopefully, I will see event date. “Hello,” or “Happy Holiday,” or Legionnaires and Sons there, also. Membership! I know the American greeting of your faith? The first weekend in November Legion and Sons are ahead of us in Remember the “REASON FOR THE SEASON.” found many of us in the Carbondale membership at this time, but we are I’m Irish by marriage, but I’ve loved th area for the Jamboree. We visited The catching up and will move forward, “everything Irish” since 6 grade, when Haven, the veterans lodge located by making our department strong while I learned about St. Patrick from my Crab Orchard Lake, sponsored by the increasing our numbers. very Irish teacher. My wish for you this 5th Division Egyptian Past Commanders Exciting News! Our department holiday season: and Egyptian Past Presidents Clubs, will have Department Training April Blessed be your holidays and run completely on donations, from 18, 2015. Please read the “Save The Cozy be your hearth across the state. Dates” section in the December ALA Merry be your family Veterans Day was observed by many Today for more information. Peaceful be your hearts.

American Legion Department of IL - Department News Page 3 DECEMBER 2014

That one of the most misunderstood Department of Veterans Affairs entitlement programs are burial benefits. Some veterans have the mistaken impression that the VA will take care of everything and others feel they are not entitled to anything un- less they get buried in a VA National Cemetery. Well here are your clear and easy to understand burial benefits.

1. HONOR GUARD: The Department of Defense will furnish, based on availability, a 2-3 person honor guard, of which, one of the members will be from the branch of service of the deceased veteran. The arrangements are made by the undertaker and they will need a legible copy of the veteran’s discharge papers or equivalent.

2. BURIAL FLAG: A burial flag is folded by the honor guard and presented to the next-of-kin or placed in the casket based on the family’s wishes. The funeral director will pick up this flag at a local Post Office prior to the burial.

3. TAPS: The honor guard will play military taps and where possible a gun salute.

4. BURIAL PLOT: Based on space availability the veteran can be buried in a VA National Cemetery. The VA will furnish the plot, grave liner, open and close the grave, order a headstone and take perpetual care of the grave.

5. HEADSTONE OR MARKER: If the veteran is buried in a private cemetery the VA will furnish a government headstone. They come in bronze, marble, slate and granite and will be shipped, free of charge, to any cemetery in the world. Besides the stand- ard engraving there is room for an additional 25 characters and there are over 30 religious symbols to choose from.

6. PRESIDENTAL MEMORIAL CERTIFICATE: An engraved certificate, signed by the current President, to honor the memory of honorably discharged deceased Veterans. It is mailed from the White House once the VA has been notified of the veterans passing.

7. MONETARY STIPEND: If at the time of the passing, the veteran was receiving a monthly VA compensation or pension check or died in a VA hospital or nursing home the VA will pay either $300, $1,000 or up to $2,000 depending on the cause of death. This is in addition to the Social Security stipend of $255 and includes prepaid burials.

8. BRONZE MEDALLION: If a commercial headstone is purchased this medallion can be placed on the stone. It will reflect the branch of service and come in sizes ranging from 1 ½ inches, 3 inches and 5 inches. 9. NATIONWIDE GRAVESITE LOCATOR: The veterans burial information will be placed in this locator and will reflect their name, branch, date of death and location of burial.

Well there you have it, an easy to remember checklist of the burial benefits. As mentioned above be sure to have readily available for the undertaker, a legible copy of your military discharge papers or its equivalent. As always if any questions please contact me at the above telephone number or e-mail address.

DECEMBER 2014 American Legion Department of IL - Department News Page 4

American Legion Department of IL - Department News Page 5 DECEMBER 2014

Post Commander, It has come to our attention that we may not have a full accounting of Post’s which have an American Legion Riders Chapter attached to them. In an effort to alleviate this problem we would like for you to contact our Committee Vice Chair- man, he will handle all correspondence relating to this matter. The Vice Chairman can be contacted by snail mail at: David B. Montee 14018 William Drive Orland Park, IL 60462-2017 Email at: [email protected] Or phone: (708) 349-4965 (H) or (708) 243-8484 (C). We need to know:  Do you have an American Legion Rider Chapter attached to your Post?  Would you like information about forming an American Legion Rider Chapter at your Post? Thanking you in advance for your response to this matter! David B. Montee, Vice Chairman. Illinois American Legion Riders Committee First Division Representative

DON’T FORGET

You can earn the new Department of Illinois American Legion Riders Recruiter Patch and pin by signing up two or more members to the American Legion Family. Call Department HQ for the form -or- locate it at www.illegion.org/forms -or- on the homepage of www.illegionriders.org. Flag Rewards 2014 Good Afternoon Adjutants, Thanks for allowing me to speak with all of you at the Top 10 Participating Departments (number of Posts with National Fall Meetings regarding the Flag Rewards at least 1 sponsored flag purchase in 2014): program. I continue to be impressed with how many of IA = 53 posts CA = 26 your Departments and posts have embraced this program, earned Emblem Sales credit and put American IL = 45 WI = 25 Legion flags out in your community. NY = 39 TX = 21 As a follow up to our meeting I am sending out the link that I shared with you at the Department Adjutant IN = 35 OH = 20 session. If you send it to your posts, they can each be MI = 29 AZ, NC = 17 registered in about 30 seconds.

Posts register here: http://emblem.legion.org/ Top 10 Departments (Flag Rewards sales in 2014): flag_rewards_registration.asp IA = $43,284 WI = $9,803 I am also including some recognition for some of the top participating departments! As you can see, if your NY = $31,895 MN = $9,411 posts get registered it equals participation and that leads IL = $22,725 TN = $7,870 to additional department royalties. MI = $19,023 VA = $6,796 Thanks for what you all do. IN = $15,675 OH = $6,448

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As the end of the year approaches once again it is time to start thinking about ALPBS. In January begin to contact school administrators or counselors about a list of young men that would be interested in our program. Once you have a contact person and a list, try to set up a time when you can meet and explain the program to the young men. It is important to start early as these students are already making plans for the summer for vacations and camps they might attend. Materials are already available from Department. If you need any help please contact a member of the American Legion Premier Boys State Committee. Also on behalf of the American Legion Premier Boys State Committee, we would like to thank Terry Woodburn for his help and support of our program. Over the years he has been a friend of ALPBS. Thanks Terry. Joe McCraith, Chairman

Dear Comrade Commander,

We the members of the Department of Illinois Americanism Commission are looking forward to a great Legion year. The Commission comes to you looking for your help. Specifically, we would like your help in finding contestants for the Illinois Oratorical Contest. Last year, in the Department Semi-Finals, approximately six contestant slots were left unfilled, that is truly unfortunate.

Therefore, we are asking for each Division Commander if they would recruit at least one contestant for the 2015 Oratorical Contest. We feel that with the efforts of the combined Legion Family that a great program can become even greater. We ask that you please follow the procedures noted in the 2015 Oratorical brochure and the Oratorical application—they are available by calling department headquarters or your can obtain them on our website at www.illegion.org.

The end of year is approaching fast—if you have a student interested please contact your respective Department Americanism Commission right away.

The Department Americanism Commission is listed below. Please do not hesitate to contact us. 1st Div.: Micheal Carder (Chrm): (H) 847/827-0957, © 708/990-3489, Email: [email protected] 2nd Div.: Gene Schaefer: (H) 815/397-5816, © 815/543-9379, Email: [email protected] 3rd Div.: Craig Fetzer: © 309/264-6047, Email [email protected] 4th Div.: Jimmy Nagel: (H) 309/828-9703, © 309/824-7748, Email: [email protected] 5th Div.: Philip Mette (VChrm): (H) 217/744-2105, © 217/347-0561, Email [email protected]

Thank you so very much. FOR THE AMERICANISM TEAM Micheal M. Carder Americanism Chairman

American Legion Department of IL - Department News Page 7 DECEMBER 2014

Legion launches new Mark Your career platform Calendar The American Legion and its allies in veteran employment and entrepreneurship have launched a new web platform to help those who served in uniform translate military skills to job skills, find employment, start businesses and make successful transitions. SAL Winter D.E.C. Macomb Squadron 6 Among the key features of The American Legion’s Veteran Employment Center are: December 6th  A Veteran Job Search tool, powered by Military.com, which helps veterans find cur- ~ ~ ~ rent job listings near them. By entering a ZIP Code, veterans can easily find job Christmas Day listings that fit their skill sets within a chosen distance from home. Department Office Closed December 25th—26th  A series of 10 custom-produced videos to help veterans start and succeed in busi- ~ ~ ~ ness. The series, “Veteran Video Guide: Starting and Growing a Business,” is spon- 80% Target sored by ADP and provides guidance from successful veteran entrepreneurs, includ- December 31st ing members of the Legion’s Business Task Force. ~ ~ ~ 2nd—100% Post Award Cut-Off December 31st ~ ~ ~ New Year’s Eve Department Office Closed December 31st ~ ~ ~ New Year’s Day Department Office Closed January 1st ~ ~ ~ American Legion Family Membership Caravan January 8th—17th ~ ~ ~ Martin Luther King Jr. Day Department Office Closed January 19th ~ ~ ~ Lincoln Pilgrimage Gold Pin  A listing of American Legion-sponsored or produced veteran career fairs nationwide, Cut-Off (1:00 PM) with links to registration sites. (90% Target) January 30th  Links to important forms, sites and agency platforms that help veterans in the ca- ~ ~ ~ reer search, including USAJobs.gov, the federal government’s job-listing site, De- 90% Target partment of Labor online tools to understand and calculate Veterans Preference February 6th points, and a VA Military Skills Translator. ~ ~ ~ Lincoln Pilgrimage Additional information in the site includes resume-writing advice from top experts, a (Springfield, IL) portal to Military.com’s benefits platform and headlines about The American Legion’s February 11th—12th advocacy on behalf of veterans seeking civilian careers. ~ ~ ~ The platform – www.legion.org/careers – is one among a growing family of new Ameri- Gold Pin Award can Legion web programs, and those soon to appear, dedicated to helping veterans find February 12th the support, services and opportunities they seek. ~ ~ ~

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Lincoln’s Birthday February 12th ~ ~ ~ Div. & Dist. Jr. & Sr. Vice Cmdr. Training Dept HQ 10am—2pm February 14th ~ ~ ~ Valentine’s Day February 14th ~ ~ ~ President’s Day Department Office Closed February 16th ~ ~ ~ Washington Conference (Washington, DC) February 22nd—25th ~ ~ ~ Department Oratorical Semi-Finals & Finals (Peoria Civic Center @ 9:00 AM) Peoria, IL March 7th ~ ~ ~ Patriotic Conference (Bloomington, IL) March 13th—14th ~ ~ ~ American Legion Birthday March 15th ~ ~ ~ SAL Spring D.E.C. Elmhurst Squadron 187 March 21st ~ ~ ~ SAL Commander’s Homecoming Arlington Heights Squadron 208 March 21st ~ ~ ~ Spring D.E.C Gold Pin Cut-Off (1:00 PM) Seated: Christy Rich, Terry Woodburn, Terry Lynn Gaddis, & Marsha Nalley. (95% Target) April 3rd Second Row: Marty Conatser, Dorothy Wagner, Toy Jenkarnchang, ~ ~ ~ Ray Toczek, Terry James, Wayne Macejak, & Joy Wilson. Good Friday Third Row: Greg Strong, Marlene Kukl, David Scott, Jr., Department Office Closed Gary Jenson, Dee Dalton, & Cheryl Hutson. April 3rd # # # (not pictured) Karen Henry and Juanita Thompson.

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Schedule set for Oak Ridge Boys Christmas special

"The American Legion Christmas Special" - with The Oak The schedule of airdates is as follows: Ridge Boys and other performers - is slated to air on individ-  KOZL - KOZL Springfield (Mo.) INDIE - 11/27, 5 p.m. CST; 11/28, ual stations across the country from late November through 9 p.m. CST Christmas. The Grammy-winning group – who share the  KOLR - KOLR Springfield (Mo.) ABC - 11/27, 5 p.m. CST; 11/28, 9 Legion's passion to help veterans and their families – p.m. CST recently teamed up with the Legion for a series of  WHME - 46 South Bend (Ind.) - 11/30, 1 p.m. CST; 12/22, 8 direct-response TV ads that invite viewers to join the effort p.m. CST to assist those who served our nation in uniform by pledg- ing $19 per month or more to The American Legion.  RFDTV - (all 10 p.m. EST, 12/4) DirecTV 345; Dish Network 231, 9398, 231 HD; AT&T U-verse 568; Cox 145; Verizon FIOS - Channel 247; Mediacom; Bright House; Suddenlink; Comcast; Time Warner Cable; Cable One; Skyangel; Optimum; Charter  Sky Angel 2 - DISH - 12/6, 6 p.m. EST  WHMB - 40 Indianapolis - 12/19, 9 p.m. CST  WHT - DirecTV 367 - 12/22, 4 p.m. EST  Family Entertainment TV - Dish Network 82 - 12/20, 9 a.m. EST  AT&T U-verse 578 - 12/20, 9 a.m. EST  TLN (Total Living Network) - DISH - 12/23, 9 p.m. EST; 12/26, 9 p.m. EST  TLN Locals - Chicago- 12/23, 9 p.m. EST; 12/26, 9 p.m. EST  WHBF - Rock Island, Moline, Ill.; Davenport, Betterndorf, Iowa (CBS) - 12/24, 11:35 p.m.

DECEMBER 2014 American Legion Department of IL - Department News Page 10

Rockford American Legion Post 1207 took great pride as they raised the American flag and the POW / MIA flag on their new flag pole (photo below on left). A special Flag Pole dedication ceremony, that involved the Legion, Auxiliary and SAL, was held Nov. 9th of which De- partment Sr. Vice Commander Paul W. Gardner was invited as a special guest. Pictured below right (L-R) David Johnson 2nd Division Sgt. At Arms, Dept. Sr. Vice Paul W. Gardner, and Rockford Post Commander Ashley C. Davis.

November 7, 2014 -- The Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs (IDVA) joined the Illinois Lottery and 23 grant recipients in launching the newest Veterans Cash instant lottery game at the Union League Club of Chicago. Since 2006, Veterans Cash has awarded more than $11.7 million in grants statewide to veterans’ organizations that provide vital services, including job training, housing assistance, and PTSD treatment. Pictured below left (L-R) Illinois Lottery Director Michael Jones, IDVA Acting Director Rodrigo Garcia. Pictured below left (L-R) 12th Dist. Cmdr. Terry Abdelnour, IL Lottery Director Michael Jones and Department Sr. Vice Commander Paul W. Gardner who were sold the first Veterans Cash instant lottery game ticket.

Many were in attendance during the Veteran’s Day programs held at Lincoln Elementary School and Meehan Elementary School both in Belvidere, IL. Department Sr. Commander Paul W. Gardner attended both school programs. During one program students paraded through holding branch of service posters, Dept. Sr. Vice Gardner proudly stood and applauded as the Marine Corps poster passed by. (photo on right)

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Legion-supported House bills focus on mental health

Two measures pending in the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs would improve substantially the quality of mental-health care for servicemembers and veterans. The Expanding Care for Veterans Act (H.R.4887) would increase research and education related to the delivery of complementary and alternative medicine to veterans. The COVER (Creating Options for Veterans Expedited Recovery) Act (H.R.4977) would establish a commission to examine the evidence-based model used by the Department of Veterans Affairs to treat mental illness. This commission would also look at potential benefits of using complementary and alternative treatments available at non-VA facilities. The American Legion submitted written testimony detailing its support for the two bills to a Nov. 19 hearing by the House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health. The Legion maintains a permanent committee that examines complementary and alternative treatments for the two conditions. The committee issued a report on its findings and recommendations in September 2013, “The War Within”. The Legion also conducted a survey of more than 3,000 veterans suffering from TBI and/or PTSD; results of the survey were shared last June at its first symposium on the two conditions. Other pending HVAC legislation supported by The American Legion includes:  The Medal of Honor Priority of Care Act (H.R. 4720): To increase the priority for enrollment of Medal of Honor recipients into the VA health-care system.  H.R. 5475: To improve the care provided by VA for newborn children.  H.R. 5484: Toxic Exposure Research Act: To establish a national VA center for research on the diagnosis and treatment of health conditions for descendants of veterans exposed to toxic substances during their military service.  The Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act (H.R. 5059): This bill’s three main provisions are 1) to conduct annual evaluations of mental health care and suicide prevention programs in VA and the Department of Defense, 2) to review the terms or characterization of discharges or separations for certain individuals who served in the Armed Forces, and 3) to create a pilot program on medical school loan repayments for psychiatrists who agree to work for VA.

Legion: No amnesty for illegal immigrants

merican Legion National Commander Michael D. Helm today journey to becoming Americans,” he said. “There have been A questioned the wisdom of the White House putting politics many prominent Legionnaires who legally migrated from above national security if it carries through with its plan to give am- other countries, including one of my recent predecessors, nesty to as many as 5 million illegal immigrants through an execu- Fang Wong. I just visited with a new American citizen who is tive order. the wife of an American government official working in “At a time when ISIS, al Qaeda and other terrorist organizations Laos. Her first husband was killed by communists in a re- are killing innocent Americans, it makes no sense to let our guard education camp. She is one of the most patriotic Americans down and send a message that the United States is an open, soft that I have met. My sister-in-law is a U.S. citizen from Pana- target,” Helm said. “A message was sent during the recent elections, ma. and it clearly wasn’t that Americans want amnesty. The American “These patriotic Americans help make our country great. Legion urges the president in the strongest possible terms to put One common characteristic is that they have earned their our security, and our citizens’ interests and wishes, ahead of provid- citizenship the legal way. In fact, we have reached out to ing amnesty for millions of immigrants here illegally.” the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to offer our Helm – who is on a Far East tour that includes Vietnam, Laos and help in bringing immigrants to full citizenship. Rewarding the Philippines – was just as adamant in stating that The American illegal immigration is a slap in the face to those who have Legion fully supports legal immigration. “The United States has ben- obeyed the law and patiently went through the process.” efited enormously from citizens who have obeyed the law in the

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The 78th Annual Haven Jamboree Egyptian Past Commanders Club was held the weekend of October 31—November 2, 2014. There was a very good turnout for the visit at the Veterans Hospital in Marion, the Friday night Steak fry and the Banquet dinner held Saturday Night. Pictured below are a few snapshots taken during the Annual Jamboree. National Vice Commander Bill Bryant (VA) ,his wife, and PNC Jimmie Koutz were among the special guests.

DoE wants feedback from veterans working in the industry

The Department of Energy (DoE) wants to identify the military skills that lead to careers in the energy industry. As part of that initiative, DoE is asking for feedback from veterans who have held or currently hold positions as building engineers, energy auditors, energy managers or commissioning agents. Veterans with experience in those professions are asked to email [email protected] or [email protected] to be directed to DoE for a brief interview about their military experience, barriers they faced in entering the energy industry and how they were able to use their service skills to help them in their careers. DoE's efforts are part of a larger initiative that aims to help veterans find work in the energy industry. DoE is hopingto identify the military skills that make a veteran successful in an energy career, and then use their findings to facilitate veterans into the industry through programs and informational campaigns. The American Legion's Veterans Employment & Education Division is providing feedback in an advisory role.

American Legion Department of IL - Department News Page 13 DECEMBER 2014

Illinois Veterans Home in LaSalle Receives Help from Local American Legion Posts and area Clubs

The Sheridan American Legion a quality of life issue. This year all of our fund raising went for Post 729 has had the Illinois these slings. We advertised the need of the veterans home to Veterans Home in LaSalle, IL, many other organizations in the area. The check in the picture as a recipient for funds for attached is for $7,054.40. Other posts sent their money directly to several years. This year they the veterans home. In the picture Robert H. Borchsenius, Adjutant discovered a great need for Post 729 is handing the check to Susan Scully, Director of Volunteer Bed Transfer Slings to help the Services and the Illinois Veterans Home in LaSalle. nurses get the residents out of Other organizations giving are: bed. There were so many resi-  Hooters in the Sky Motorcycle Club who donate to worthy dents needing help and so few causes regularly ($3000.00) Bed Slings, it became a  Disabled American Veterans from Morris ($2000.00) problem. The Illinois Veterans  Sheridan American Legion Post 729 (1454.40) Home never gets enough  money to have all they need. Sandwich American Legion Post 181 ($300.00) We here at Post 729 felt it was  Ransom American Legion Post 674 ($300.00)

A Baker Flag Scenario For Unbroken Returning Veterans Free Screening Shared and Written by: Richard Williams

Veterans are invited for a FREE private screening of the movie Quite often, veterans returning home are tossed Unbroken. Angelina Jolie directs and produces Unbroken, an epic Into a cauldron of self-doubt, like feeling lost, drama that follows the life of an Olympian and war hero Louis Unable to adjust, and do not understand Zamperini. What’s wrong with them and with some basic things at hand. The release date is Christmas. Hollywood Blvd. Cinema located at 1001 W. 75th St. in Woodridge, IL is offering to host this event They blame themselves, of course—as new kids on the block any afternoon January 5th thru 8th with a start time between 3 pm Where they did not expect to find an empty sock. and 4 pm. Still young, but now as an adult, and scarred by war, We need your assistance in gathering feedback from our What they are facing now they’ve never faced before. Veterans so that we can fill the seats with as many If you can see yourself in any part of this, Veterans as possible. This In any way, then you we do not want to miss. theater can accommodate up The Bottom Line—you now have benefits to claim; to 400 viewers. We are The Legion gives you opportunities to name. asked to spread the word that this theater serves food You aren’t the same man that you were, that you well know. to your seat as well as What you went through, you will remember, but...go slow! drinks along with your usual You’re dealing with the here and now, as you did then; theater snacks. They will be The Legion helps you build a better life again. bringing a kitchen staff early to accommodate and serve Our foremost thought is to encourage you to wear our Veterans. The Legion’s trappings, proudly, confident, and fair. The Legion contact is New Camaraderie awaits you—it’s your move. Christopher Benigno. You can The Legion is for real, and that we want to prove. contact him either by email at [email protected] or call 815-823-3907.

DECEMBER 2014 American Legion Department of IL - Department News Page 14

2014-2015 DIVISION & DISTRICT MEETING DATES

DATE DIST. / DIV. TIME POST CITY

12/12/14 2ND DISTRICT 6:00 PM FRANKLIN DELANO ROOSEVELT POST 923 CHICAGO

12/17/14 3RD DISTRICT 7:00 PM ILLIANA POST 220 (MEETING & CHRISTMAS PARTY) CHICAGO

12/17/14 9TH DISTRICT 7:30 PM DES PLAINES POST 36 (CHRISTMAS PARTY) DES PLAINES

12/18/14 5TH DISTRICT 7:30 PM SAWA’S OLD WARSAW RESTURANT BROADVIEW

01/04/15 5TH DIVISION 1:00 PM STEELVILLE POST 480 STEELVILLE

01/16/15 10TH DISTRICT 7:30 PM SHARVIN POST 397 NORTH CHICAGO

01/11/15 21ST DISTRICT 1:00 PM CHATHAM POST 759 CHATHAM

01/11/15 25TH DISTRICT 1:00 PM THE HAVEN CARBONDALE

01/15/15 5TH DISTRICT 7:30 PM STICKNEY POST 687 STICKNEY

01/18/15 23RD DISTRICT 11:00 AM DIETERICH POST 628 DIETERICH

01/21/15 3RD DISTRICT 7:00 PM GEORGE L. GILES POST 87 CHICAGO

01/21/15 7TH DISTRICT 7:30 PM MORTON GROVE POST 134 MORTON GROVE

01/22/15 8TH DISTRICT 8:00 PM TINLEY PARK POST 615 TINLEY PARK

01/25/15 12TH DISTRICT 1:00 PM OSWEGO POST 675 OSWEGO

01/28/15 9TH DISTRICT 7:30 PM MERLE-GUILD POST 208 ARLINGTON HEIGHTS

02/04/15 1ST DIVISION 6:00 PM MORTON GROVE POST 134 MORTON GROVE

02/07/15 1ST DISTRICT 11:00 AM MONTCLARE-LEYDEN VFW POST 1284 CHICAGO

02/18/15 7TH DISTRICT 7:30 PM EVANSTON POST 42 EVANSTON

02/20/15 10TH DISTRICT 7:30 PM LAKE ZURICH POST 964 LAKE ZURICH

02/21/15 14TH DISTRICT 1:00 PM MACOMB POST 6 MACOMB

02/22/15 16TH DISTRICT 10:00 AM WASHINGTON POST 100 WASHINGTON

 Oratorical Contest—March 7, 2015  Boys State—June 13th—19th, 2015  Special Olympics—June 12th—13th, 2015  Illini Girls State—June 21st—27th, 2015

American Legion Department of IL - Department News Page 15 DECEMBER 2014

THE AMERICAN LEGION DEPARTMENT OF ILLINOIS PRESORTED P.O. BOX 2910 BLOOMINGTON, ILLINOIS 61702 FIRST-CLASS MAIL US POSTAGE PAID PUBLISHED MONTHLY * BLOOMINGTON, IL Phone: 309-663-0361 Fax: 309-663-5783 Email: [email protected] Web: www.illegion.org PERMIT No. 18

Department Commander Department Editor

HANK ROBARDS TERRY L. WOODBURN

$10.00 for 11 $10.00 for issues 11

* One year Subscription to the Department News to * Subscription News the One year Department

15th of each month for it to be in the next months issue. for next 15th in issue. months to of the it be each month Newsletter articles must be must by at Headquarters articles the Department Newsletter

Department of Illinois ~ Official Member of The National American Legion Press Association

DECEMBER (2014) TRIVIA 1. What was the name of the barbaric German tribe that overran Gaul, Spain and North Africa and sacked Rome in the fifth century? 2. Why did U.S. secret agents abandon plans—approved by President Franklin D. Roosevelt—to drop Visit our website! live bats from airplanes to frighten the Japanese during World War II? Scan Here 3. What unsung role did William Dawes and Samuel Prescott play in American history? 4. Why was infantryman (and actor-to-be) James Arness picked to go first when the troops aboard his landing craft splashed ashore during the Allied attack at Anzio during World War II? 5. What was the profession of Hitler’s mistress, Eva Braun?

ANSWERS:

Photographer’s assistant. Photographer’s 5.

to know just how deep the water was. water the deep how just know to

and his commanding officer wanted wanted officer commanding his and — outfit

At 6 feet 6, he was the tallest man in his his in man tallest the was he 6, feet 6 At 4.

men that “the British are coming.” are British “the that men

brated midnight ride to warn their country- their warn to ride midnight brated

They accompanies Paul Revere on his cele- his on Revere Paul accompanies They 3.

could be released. be could

The bats froze at high altitudes, before they they before altitudes, high at froze bats The 2.

The Vandals. The 1.

DECEMBER 2014 American Legion Department of IL - Department News Page 16