2013 Legion Leadership

Official Publication of The American Legion Department of Michigan - www.michiganlegion.org - July/August 2012

Michigan Legionnaire & Wolverine Auxiliaire Vol. LXXXII No.1 2012 - 2013 LEGION LEADERSHIP

SAL Commander Rodney Tolbert Department Commander Thomas Brown Auxiliary President Mary Anne Yuncker

1st Place NALPA Publication Winner 2006 1st Place NALPA Register for Service Website Winner 2008 2nd Place Remember to submit NALPA Publication Winner - 2007 Officer School p. 10 & 2009 3rd Place NALPA IRS Form 990. Publication Winner - 2008 Free Boat Rides for Veterans p. 9 Don’t lose your non-profit status! Convention Pictures p. 8 Made in the USA p. 7

Legionnaire Receives Medals p. 13

Send in Your Resume

July/August 2012 p. 14

No Return Requested. Postage Wilwin Lodge Open L-R National Commander Fang Wong, 2012 State Oratorical Champion House July 14, 2012 p. 15 Aaron Mukerjee, and National Americanism Chairman Joseph Caouette See You at Boyne Highlands Sept. 20-23, 2012 2 | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | July/August 2012 | WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & Served as State Adjutant AUXILIAIRE Former State Adjutant (USPS 010637) is published monthly except February, May, August, and Michael Kerrigan Passes December by The American Legion Michael Kerrigan, bered for his sense of humor, giving of Carlisle, IA; four grandchildren, and American Legion Auxiliary, age 62 of Little Rock, nature, and his advocating for and sup- Kayla, Thomas, Delaney and Stella; Department of Michigan, 212 N. IA, formerly of port of special needs children. He had four step-grandchildren, Zachary, Verlinden, Lansing, MI 48915-1297. Lansing, MI died a special love for God, family, and coun- Makayla, Lacey and Carley; eight sib- Periodical postage paid at Lansing, Monday, June 4, 2012 try! Mike was an eye cornea donor, lings, Patricia (Paul) Ronnenberg of at the Avera Heart which has given sight to two recipients Byron, MN, Cynthia (Joe) Donahue of MI, and additional mailing offices. Hospital in Sioux Falls, in need of sight. Onalaska, WI, Daniel (Karen) Kerrigan Subscription $10.00 non-members, SD. Michael is survived by his wife Lynn of Holmen, WI, Dennis Kerrigan of members receive the publication as Michael Kerrigan Michael F. Kerrigan Kerrigan of Little Rock, IA; three sons, Rochester, MN, Donald (Renata) part of their dues. was born on July 6, 1949, the son of Patrick Kerrigan of George, IA, Kerrigan of Louisiana, Debra (Gordon) Leo F and Mary Genevieve (Frappier) Thomas (Kara) Kerrigan and John Reberry of Onalaska, WI, Deanna Kerrigan in LaCrosse, WI. He was Kerrigan both of Lansing, MI; three (Thomas) Stower of Minneapolis, MN DEADLINE DATES raised in LaCrescent, MN and at a step-children, Heather (Brett) Nelson of and Danita Kerrigan of Byron, MN; JULY/AUGUST 2012s - JUNE 1, 2012 young age he moved with his family to Ponca, NE, Aaron (Niki) Murray of several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews Superior, WI. Later his family moved to Manhattan, KS and Amy (Justin) Beller and cousins. Circulation: 97,687 Rochester, MN. Michael graduated Printed: 7-6-12 • Mailed: 7-9-12 from the Aquinas High School in Rochester, MN in 1968. He enlisted in LEGION STATE HEADQUARTERS the United States Air Force serving as DIRECTORY an MP from 1970 to 1974. In December of 1973, he was united in PUBLISHER: PATRICK W. LAFFERTY marriage to Susan M Lynch at the St. EDITOR:MARK SUTTON Stanislaus Catholic Church in Winona, MN. Twins were born of their union. The American Legion Dept. of Michigan Living in Winona, he continued his 212 N. Verlinden, Lansing, MI 48915 education and received his Bachelor’s (517) 371-4720 ¥ Fax: (517) 371-2401 Degree in Business Management at Web Site: www.michiganlegion.org Winona State College. Mike’s wife Email: [email protected] Susan died in November of 1977. In September of 1978, Michael was unit- Legion and SAL Membership - 24 - ed in marriage to Jane M Flynn in [email protected] Preston, MN; to this union three chil- Programs, Boys State and Scholarships - 11 - dren were born. In the mid 1980’s he [email protected] and his family moved to Indianapolis, IN, where he worked at the National Legion Finance - 17 - Headquarters of American Legion. He [email protected] traveled the U.S. meeting and working Baseball, Website and History - 23 - with Local and National Leaders. Two [email protected] years later he took the job of Adjutant Veterans Service - 12 - Wednesdays only of the American Legion of Michigan Public Relations - 16 - and moved to Lansing, MI. After leav- [email protected] ing the American Legion, he became self-employed as an IT consultant. On Administration - 13 - December 31, 2005, he married Lynn [email protected] D. McShannon in Sergent Bluff, IA and later retired to Little Rock, IA in Do you have a photo you would like 2006. Michael was a member of the St. to submit for the Michigan Legionnaire Andrew’s Catholic Church, the Buss- and/or website use? E-mail it to us at Johnson American Legion, the William [email protected] or mail it to F. Allard VFW, the Disabled Veterans, department attn: Mark Sutton the Knights of Columbus; he was also Please keep the photo at least 200 dpi or a member of Cornelia de Lange larger. If you are submiting a hard copy Syndrome Foundation. He was cur- rently a member of the Little Rock photo, please note photos printed from City Council. Mike will be remem- home printers cannot be used, nor can photos clipped from newspapers. STATE OFFICERS We look for photos showing Legion State Commander ...... Tom Brown, Oscoda Finance Officer ...... Lyle C. Shanks, Dorr Alt. National Executive Committeeman caps in action whenever possible. State Adjutant...... Patrick W. Lafferty, Farwell Historian ...... Rex Lambert, Grand Rapids ...... John H. Skinner, Schoolcraft Immediate Past Commander Interested in placing an ad in the 1st Zone ...... Eddie Brown Chaplain ...... Jennifer Smith, Lansing ...... Richard I. Chatman, Detroit Michigan Legionnaire? Please Contact 2nd Zone...... Lynn Jolink Sergeant-at-Arms ...... Michael Buda, Dearborn Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Director Mark Sutton at: info@michiganle- 3rd Zone ...... Brett Holt Judge Advocate...... F. Garrit Veldman, Muskegon ...... James Topps, Adrian gion.org or by phone at 517-371-4720 4th Zone ...... Wilson Coomer National Executive Committeeman Membership Director...... Larry Money, Buchanan ext 16. 5th Zone ...... Jack Koivisto ...... Thomas G. Holzgen, Grandville Public Relations Director . Mark Sutton, Eaton Rapids WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | July/August 2012 | 3 Headquarters Tom Brown, State Commander Tom Brown Named 2012 - 2013 Department Commander Greetings to all and expand them. Pillar number II: National our troops and the emergency my fellow There has been a lot of rhetoric Security. The American Legion has responders (police, firemen, para- Legionnaires in about the four pillars of the American always been in the forefront to insure medics etc.). We honor law enforce- every Post and Legion; they are the reason that this that nation’s security is strong. It is ment and firemen every year at our District across the organization exists. our obligation to keep a strong force Convention. We also honor our edu- great State Of Pillar number I: Veterans ready to defend our country. At the cators with the teacher of the year Michigan. What a Affairs and Rehabilitation (VA & R). nation security commission meetings awards. American Legion baseball, year we had. It is our duty to insure that every we address all the issues involving Boys State, Oratorical and Student Commander Veteran all the benefits that they have the armed forces, including training, Trooper are also programs covered Tom Brown State Commander Chatman was very earned through their military service. quality of life and most importantly under Americanism. diligent in his Our VA & R program is one of the their security. There are other con- Pillar number IV: Children and efforts to breathe some life back into best in the nation and has the nation- cerns as well, such as disaster pre- Youth. The purpose of this pillar is our programs as was Commanders al awards to prove it. Our Service paredness. In short we need a well- to provide for the wellbeing of the Jackson and Hafeman before him. Officers are well trained and gen- funded and well trained force ready young people of our communities. Their diligence has not gone unre- uinely care about the folks that come to respond to anything and we need We support charities that include warded. Our programs have shown to them for assistance. Therefore to let Congress know this. Children’s Miracle Network, Special improvement and are getting stronger each and every one of us needs to Pillar number III: Olympics and Ronald McDonald every day. contact our legislators and insist that Americanism. Our Americanism is House. It is my belief that our American the funding for VA & R be restored reaching out to the posts and the I look forward to serving as your Legion programs are our reason for immediately so that we can continue posts to the communities to promote commander this year and meeting being and as your Commander I to provide help for the veterans of Americanism. That being the care you along the way. For God and intend to continue to seek to improve this state. and respect for our flag, respect for Country.

Patrick W. Lafferty, State Adjutant Accidental Death Benefit of $5000 Take Advantage of Legion Care Upgrade The American Legion Department of Michigan has had a relationship with the Legionnaire Insurance Trust Program for more than 40 years. The offer competitive rates on many insurance products, but the best product for Legionnaires offered FREE of charge. They offer every Legionnaire a $5000 (upgraded from $1000) accidental Patrick W. Lafferty death benefit; if a cover accident occurs State Adjutant while on Official Legion Business or $1000 for all other covered accidents. Sign up today and you will be protected until August 31st, 2016. Watch for the form in the mail or visit www.thelit.com to sign up. Get the protection you deserve while doing good works for the Legion. L.I.T offers other products as well, like Emergency Assistance programs in case you are hurt or become sick while traveling. Car insurance from GMAC, check their rates, they just might save you some money. Our relationship with L.I.T is over 40 years old and going strong, please have a look at their products to decide for yourself. In 2012 L.I.T presented a check for over 100,000 to the Department of Michigan to assist the programs the department sponsors throughout the year. 4 | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | July/August 2012 | WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG Membership WWW.MYLEGION.ORG BE SURE TO SIGN UPTOUSE MYLEGION.ORG The new membership year has who renewed via the web begun, are you ready? • Look up members at large (DMS) Membership is what keeps the who live in your area and invite Legion growing, without membership them to transfer to your Post there is no Legion. Keeping records • Post your Newsletters for mem- straight and monitoring the renewal bers to read progress is challenging at times. That’s • Submit your Consolidated Post all changed now with MyLegion.org, Report the online membership management How do you get started? tool created by The American Legion. • Go online to www.mylegion.org • For Post’s Click On the What can you do with Authorization Form follow the MyLegion.org? prompts to gain access • Check the status of your Post mem- • Members can update their per- bers sonal information on file with • With online renewals check to see National RENEW ONLINE NOW

District Meetings 1st District May 5 Harrison 404 (Memorial) 9/10/12 Fred Beaudry Post #126 June 1T.B.A. (incoming commander Post) 10/1/12 Joe Louis Post #375 Lunch at noon, meetings at 1pm all dates. It’s Fast, Easy, and Secure 12/3/12 Joe Louis Post #375 3/4/13 Fred Beaudry Post #126 16th District Legionnaires renew your 2013 Legion membership now at 5/6/13 * Joe Louis Post #375 Sept. 11 Lincoln Park Post 67 www.legion.org/renew 6/3/13 Fred Beaudry Post #126 *October 9 Melvindale Post 472 * Memorial Day Observance - Joint November 13 Flat Rock Post 337 Legion Family. *December 11 Southgate Post 478 FAQ’s from members: January 8 Stitt Post 232 How do I receive my new card? – When you complete the online Other Events Scheduled include: Installation of *February 12 Fort Dearborn Post 364 process they will have a temporary card for you to PRINT. Take that print District Officers (7/9/12) at Fred Beaudry Post March 12 Wyandotte 217 version to your Post or mail it to your Post so the Adjutant can send you the #126; 1st Zone Picnic (8/4/12) in Taylor, *April 8 Allen Park Post 409 Michigan; Veterans Day Parade (11/3/12) in **May 14 Lincoln Park Post 67 new card. The sheet is your receipt that you have renewed with National. Detroit. June 11 Garden City 396 The Post might not automatically send it to you. Your membership card is at the Post. Guests are welcome - those planning to attend and Meeting begins at 7:30 * Denotes Service Officer speak should notify the District Adjutant, John School at 6:30 PM ** Memorial Service at Burke at [email protected] so you may be 6:30 PM FAQ from Adjutant/Membership Officers: included in the meeting agenda. What do I send to Department for Online Renewals? - The Post sends nothing to Department when a member renews online. Simply give the 6th District District Online Renewing member their New Card and shred the left portion of the Sept. 9 Mackinder-Glenn Post 510 Commanders!!! card. For online renewals Department does not receive anything from the Post. Nov. 4 Devereaux Post 141 January 13 Pinckney Memorial Post 419 Submit your March 10 Chas. N. Skellenger Post 267 When will the Post be paid for online renewals? – When Department May 5 Jesse B. Cooley Post 235 meetings to receives the report and check from National for online payments we will quick- Mark Sutton at: ly return your portion of the payments. 10th District September 8 Oscoda 274 [email protected] November 3 Mikado 254 Can the Post Adjutant/membership officer see who has renewed January 5 Bay City 18 online? - Yes sign up to use www.mylegion.org for your Post and all that March 2 Sanford 443 ASAP!!! information will be there. 212 N. Verlinden Ave, Ste. B, Lansing, MI 48915 New Phone: (517) 267-8809 SECTION TWO AUXILIAIRE Page 5 July/August 2012 From the Desk of the President 2012 - 2013 Department President, Mary Anne Yuncker Mary Anne Yuncker Elected 2012 - 2013 Department President Thank you for the folks who taught and nurtured me. Thank you to Theresa Wheeler allowing me the me on my way. They are also very Now sitting behind me is my fam- and Betty Rhodes Machen for carry- privilege of stand- dear to me. Without you I wouldn't ily. Introduce. For the many events ing my Fifth District colors and Marge ing before you be here today. Thanks to all of you. that I've missed, for times when I've Knapp and Sheila Young for present- today as your You may be seated. You have all pro- been preoccupied, on the phone and ing my Unit #287 colors. It was a Department vided support, encouragement, and out of town, thank you for your special joy to share this ceremony President. It is truly friendship for my personal growth understanding. This is the year we've with you. humbling to be in and preparation for the steps to take worked for. Thanks especially to my Before I close, I also want to thank this position, so in awe of and yet this highest office within the sister, who has helped me prepare my friend, your newest National honored by the trust you have placed American Legion Auxiliary food, sew kerchiefs, and come up Committeewoman, Carrie in me. Because of your confidence Department of Michigan. with many ideas I have used. Bowerman. Together we have cov- in me, I accept the responsibilities Would the past Department My theme for this year is "The ered many miles across this country. of this office with a deep faith in Presidents please stand? Each of you Sky's the Limit for Our Veterans". The She has coached, mentored, yelled at God's guidance and a devoted com- has influenced my path to this office. logo is a hot air balloon as we soar to and looked after me. We have commitment to the American Legion Your willingness to advise and coun- new heights in our efforts to help vet- plemented each other and forged a Auxiliary. sel me is a large part of why I'm here erans and their families through our very special bond throughout ups No one achieves this position by today. Thank you all so much. You many programs. My special project and downs over the past two years. themselves. Throughout the years I may be seated. is part of this: the woman veteran. Thank you for being there and prom- have had wonderful mentors and sup- Congratulations to the new officers The funds collected over this year ising to continue to be a resource porters within the American Legion and District Presidents. I'm sure as will be distributed to several pro- for me. family. I hardly know where to begin we work together this year we will grams within our state as they provide As you leave, be sure to get your to thank all of you for your support. have a good time and also a very social and medical benefits to our new membership pin. Wear it proud- I believe it all began about ten years successful year. Thank you to my returning service women. I like to call ly all year to show your pride in and ago when I asked Past Department new committee chairmen and com- our association with the woman vet- allegiance to this the premier President Jackie Skinner and "Pic" mittee members. There is not one of eran "Sisters in Service". I'm hoping women's veterans organization in Webster what I would have to do to you who I agreed to reluctantly or you will be there as a sister; true, the wonderful state of Michigan. "move up" in this organization. They with reservation. Each one of you has generous, and supportive in this often May God bless you, our Auxiliary, advised me to work on many com- demonstrated your abilities in the overlooked and so needed cause. and May God bless America !! mittees. I took their advice and spent past and I am very excited to watch years learning about our programs your performance and see your suc- and what could be accomplished cesses this year. I am not in the office through them. However, it was the of President to impress you. Rather, Knapp ladies who really persuaded I am here to be impressionable. I'm me to throw my hat in the ring. waiting to be impressed by you, the Thanks to all of you for your encour- members of this wonderful, capable agement. The road has been bumpy and dedicated organization. due to illness and death, but today is The American Legion family is a new day. I'm eager and excited to vital to our success this year. I'm begin our new year. looking forward to working with the I would like to thank the members Legion and Sons of the American of my Unit #287-Cedar Springs. Legion this year. Also part of our Would the members of the Post, family is our Juniors. Traveling with Auxiliary, Sons of the American the commanders and me will be the Legion and the Juniors please stand Honorary Junior President Alexus for recognition? Would the mem- Champion. Having watched Alexus bers for the Fifth District please join grow up into the lovely young woman them? These fine folks have been she is today, I'm excited to have her my support group, encouraging and with me as we travel this state togeth- helping me every step of the way. er. It's not easy to adopt a full grown My greatest appreciation for this child, a new member who then day goes to my husband, best friend almost immediately steps up to a and greatest supporter, Bill. (comes leadership position. Please remain forward) Over the years, many of VISTA volunteer Joshua Schreier; Department Secretary-Treasurer Bonnie Olson; and Legion Public standing. I would also like to recog- you have called him "the invisible Relations Director Mark Sutton nize the members of Unit #267 and man", as he has stayed behind the AUXILIARY HEADQUARTERS DIRECTORY 517-267-8809 the Legion family from the Sixth scenes, keeping things going at home, District. Would you please stand? taking care of the dogs and enabling Auxiliary Administration - 21 - [email protected] This is where my journey began. I me to donate my gift of time. But this made many of my mistakes and year it will be different. He will be Auxiliary Membership/Girls State - 19 - [email protected] learned the ropes here. These are very visible as he plans to travel with Auxiliary Poppies/Scholarships/Bookkeeping - 22 - [email protected] 6 | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | July/August 2012 | www.michalaux.org Susan Verville, Department Chaplain Chaplains Corner As we start a new year of us the wisdom, the faith and the courage to service in this great organiza- meet all of the demands of the coming year. tion, please give our new offi- Give us guidance and strength to meet our cers, chairman and all of our responsibilities as members of this great organ- members the support and help ization. We ask a special blessing for all of Order Your Shirt Today! needed this coming year. those who have fought and for those who have PRAYER: Lets us pray for all our veterans, died for us. AMEN both Men and Women who are serving at “THE SKY’S THE LIMIT FOR OUR VETER- home or aboard. Please watch over all of our ANS” means that there is NO limit to how G Veterans and their families and give them the much we as Auxiliary members can do to help strength, the wisdom and the faith to meet the our Veterans. We can reach high in the sky by demands that are being asked of them. Keep us showing our appreciation, our loyalty, and our ever mindful of the sacrifices made by our devotion to the principles of freedom and service men and women for the betterment of democracy of this great nation to all of our others. We pray for the safe return of those Veterans, their families and our communities. who are defending our country. Lets us pledge Remember that we are a volunteer organization to honor and respect the Flag of the United and only we as members can make this organ- States of America. Lets us encourage our Junior’s ization “The American Legion Auxiliary” the members to become our future leaders. Give very best that it can be. New Poppy Supervisor at Gr. Rapids Home Hello, my name is Richard Aaron Jones. I am 63 veterans can earn money for savings or other things years old and I am a Navy veteran of 12 years. I have that they might want or can’t receive from the been living at the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans Home. for 3 years and let me tell you--it has been an I want to thank the American Legion and the experience that I will never forget. American Legion Auxiliary for all that you have been First off, if it were not for the GRHV, I would be doing for the veterans. Thank You for caring. We living on the streets or in a shelter. There are so many have Bingo, go to baseball games (Detroit Tigers), things that keep us busy each and every day of the golfing, fishing and hunting trips. year. I am still overwhelmed and surprised as to During the holidays, there are a lot of functions what the various organizations do for veterans. going on here at the Home. At Christmas time, we We have 3 meals a day, activities and trips to dif- have a “wish list”, where we can send our loved ferent places throughout Michigan. We have a ones gifts, too. There are lots of donations given to clothing room to supply us with under garments and the Home from a lot of people and organizations outerwear for the summer and winter seasons. Our and it never stops. food is prepared with the utmost attention, just I am proud of my America and I want to thank like home. We have a lot of social gatherings with you for all that you have done. There are so many various organizations. We go to movies, volunteer things to do year round, that I can’t list them all. You our service to other organizations for car washes etc. should come here and witness it for yourself--you’ll We are the main Distribution Center for the not believe it. My family is still overwhelmed with American Legion Auxiliary Poppy Program, where the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans.

Department Staff: Sandy Vandlen, LeAnn Knott and Bonnie Olson with the VISTA, ALA Call to Service Corps volunteer Joshua Schreier sent from national to observe the Department of Michigan and how it operates on a day-to-day basis. He is writing a guidebook for the national secretaries, UPAA women holding the quilted flags made by Krystal Oberle. Each flag represents a goal unit. There were 16 goal units in the UPAA and our department was recommended by the National Secretary to visit. for 2011-12. Congratulations to all of the goal units!! WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | July/August 2012 | 7 LEGISLATIVE Legislative Updates ACTIVITIES FOR THE MADE IN THE USA YEAR PRODUCED Public Act 167 of 2012 is now law. Governor Rick Snyder signed Senate Bill 640; a law sponsored by State Senator Roger Kahn. This bill amended the Act’s title and added Sec 2a to the Act. MIXED RESULTS On May 30th, 2012 the State House and Senate TITLE voted on A Omnibus bill that included the budget An act to adopt and prescribe the design of a state coat-of-arms and state flag, and their use; to prohibit the use of the for the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs same for advertising purposes; to prescribe standards for the manufacture, sale, and display of certain flags of the United for FY2013. Within that budget included items States and the state flag; and to prescribe the powers and duties of certain state agencies and officials. affecting the Veterans in Michigan. Many Legionnaires and other members of the Veteran Sec. 2a. (1) This state, including all branches, departments, offices, boards, commissions, authorities, or other agencies Service Organizations in Michigan (VFW, MOPH, of this state, shall not purchase a flag of the United States or a state flag of Michigan for display upon a building or MCL, VVA,DAV) met with and wrote letters to property owned, or entirely leased, or operated by this state, including all branches, departments, offices, boards, commissions, authorities, or other agencies of this state, unless the flag was manufactured in the United States or a territory of members of the legislature to lobby for several the United States. issues throughout the year to help veterans. Below are the results.

The Good News

For years the 2 Veterans Homes in Michigan have been growing older. With the economic climate there has been little money for capital improvements on the Homes. This year both Homes will receive one time appropriations to make improvements. Grand Rapids Home 1.6 million and D.J. Jacobetti Home will receive 516,000 dollars for improvements. At D.J. Jacobetti the money will be used to upgrade a 45+ year heating and cooling system, roof repairs, and improve access to a court yard on the grounds. A one-time appropriation for Veteran Service Enhancement of 434k was passed to bring 2 items to veteran services. One to help the VSO’s and County Service Officers purchase software service that allows better communications between the Counties Service Officers, the VSO Field Officers and the Veteran Service Organization’s Detroit Offices when helping veteran’s. The remaining L-R State Commander Richard Chatman, State Adjutant Patrick Lafferty, Gov. Rick Snyder, MOPH Legislative Chairman Lino Pretto , State money will be used to train and hire veterans with- Sen. Roger Kahn, Sen. Kahn’s Chief of Staff Jon Cool, and American Legion Legislative Chairman Doug Williams in the vocational rehabilitation program to work on college campuses to bring veteran services to those veterans’s attending school.

The Bad News

The Veteran Service Grants have been cut for another year. The grants have been decreased again from 3,029,000 last year to 2,904,000 this year. The operating budget for FY2012 was only 2.9 million because money allocated to the grant was used to hire a Certification Officer for the DMVA. We pressed to have that money brought back into the grant system, but it was decided by the legislature and executive branch to remove the 125,000 completely. We will continue to educate and press the legislature for additional funding. Much has been said about the gross domestic expenditure report placing the State at number 53 (even behind L-R State Sen. Tom Casperson, Senior Deputy Director Jason Allen, State Rep. Matt Huuki, and American Legion Chairman Doug Williams at Guam and Puerto Rico), but with continued cuts in a press conference on June 9th announcing the Jacobetti allocation. funding that number may not change anytime soon. 8 | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | July/August 2012 | WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG 94TH STATE CONVENTION - KALAMAZOO, MICHIGAN JUNE 28 - JULY 1, 2012 NATE GROSS, LAKE ORION, 2012 FIREFIGHTER OF THE YEAR

FRED PITTMAN, YPSILANTI - DISABLED VETERAN OUTREACH AWARD OUR NEW COMMANDER TOM BROWN VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA, LANSING - HOMELESS VETS OUTREACH AWARD

GARY TANNER WITH MRS. SHUTZE AND FAMILY, PRESENT POST 459 THE FIRST JAMES W. VA&R AWARD SHUTZE AWARD FOR THEIR RECONNECT PROGRAM JIM BISHOP, BATTLE CREEK - LOCAL VETERANS EMPLOYMENT SVC

NASER PROPANE, POWERS - SMALL EMPLOYER THHANKANK YOU TOM FOR ALL YOU DO

FASTBALL FLAKES THANK YOU DETROIT TIGERIGER JUSTIN VERLANDER AND MEIJER’S FOR SUPPORTING VETERANS ANDY KNAPP 2011-2012 TOP RECRUITER

BEVERLY JO LIST 2012 LEGIONNAIRE OF THE YEAR

OFFICER RONALD KOSKI, ROCK 2012 LAW OFFICER OF THE YEAR WASHTENAW COUNTY MICHIGAN THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING THE WORKS - EMPLOYMENT SVC OUR 2012-2013 JUNIORS WILWIN LODGE LOCAL OFFICE

IM ARRISON ARWELL NHANCE STEWART MANUFACTURING, HERMANSVILLE - J G , F - E CONGRATULATIONS TEACHERS OF THE YEAR IVES OF ISABLED ERSONS WARD MEDIUM EMPLOYER AWARD L D P A 2012 - 2013 ELECTED OFFICIALS

Thomas Brown Lyle Shanks Michael Buda Rex Lambert State Commander State Finance Officer State Sergeant-at-Arms State Historian WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | July/August 2012 | 9 REPRINTED WITH PERMISSION FROM THE ROYAL OAK PATCH EARTH TO ROYAL OAK: RESIDENTS TIDY UP PARKS IN TIME FOR EARTH DAY MEMBERS OF FRANK WENDLAND AMERICAN LEGION POST 253 GAVE A CITY PARK SOME TLC TODAY AS PART OF THE CITY'S PARK CLEAN UP DAYS. By Judy Davids April 21, 2012 picked up debris for almost two John Wendland said. "It used to be hours. called Sunset Park, but it was Sunday is Earth Day, when the cit- "This is an example of how the renamed for my uncle." izens of Planet Earth mobilize for community gets together to make Frank Wendland was just 20 years an eco-celebration, but here in Royal Royal Oak the great city," Carol old when he was killed Oct. 4, 1918, Oak residents with with rakes and Hennessey said. in World War I just weeks before it trash bags started early. After the group raked all the leaves ended. Saturday morning, groups taking to the curb they were treated to a In 1919, the Frank Wendland part in Adopt a Park for a Day took barbeque at the park courtesy of the American Legion Post 253 was time to give Mother Nature a little American Legion. founded in Royal Oak by veterans tender loving care by sprucing up returning home from the war. more than 50 city parks. Labor of love Wendland, who friends call the best At Wendland Park, on the city's The cleanup was a labor of love for historian in town, will be the Grand south side, about 25 members of the one resident. Marshall of this year'sMemorial Day American Legion raked leaves and "This park is the city's oldest park," Parade. THIS IS ALL FREE TO ALL VETERANS. Tight Lines For Troops VETERANS JOIN BOAT4VETS JULY 14TH 2012 Mike Shawl, CEO and Founder year on August 11, Skipper Bud's facility on Lake Fenton will be our hosts. Lake Fenton is a Hello to our friends, old and new! 2012 is here beautiful site. With the increase in the potential are and we are growing again! number of guests, we will need more volunteers Last year, our Third Outing on Harsen's Island and more boats, most of all we want to see more was a great success with over 200 guests. Vet's veterans for each event. Most of our volunteers will came back to see us and more important, many not be able to bring their boats from Lake St. attended for the first time and brought their fam- Clair and so we will need help from new people. ilies. Following our time on the water, we joined We also need people to help and eventually take together on shore for great food, great prizes and charge of the Lake Fenton outing. In October of better friendship. We had nine World War II Vets 2011, the Internal Revenue Service awarded 501 who shared stories of their time in service and (c)(3) nonprofit status to boat4vets. Cash and goods reminisced about their time on local waters. donated to the group are now tax deductible. We Boat4vets was honored to receive "The Presidents ask that you pray for help so we can get the job Volunteer Service Award." I know in my heart done. Pray for all of our veterans and pray that our that 2012 will be even bigger than last year government can fix the economic problems facing Although Tashmoo Marina was a great host site, the Country. The USA is the greatest country in we have outgrown their facilities. We are moving the world, may God bless it always. our Lake St. Clair event to the beautiful grounds Join us at Lk. St. Clair or Lk. Fenton of the Idle Hour Yacht Club. This year, it will be For more information or to get involved: Mike held on July 14. They have more room for our Shawl 810-742-0173 or 810-241-8025, email: Jimmy Topps, Veteran Service Office Director joined Veterans activities and can handle more veterans and boats. [email protected] or visit from all over the State for a free fishing day on Lake Michigan We have arranged a second outing. For the first www.boat4vets.com at the Tight Lines for Troops event May 19th, 2012 Member for 68 Years American Legion Post 197 Commander and Adjutant presented Legionnaire Leonard DeFrain a years of service award for his 68 years of membership in the Legion.

L-R Post Commander Ron Volmering, Leonard DeFrain, Post Adjutant Arnold H. Koehn 10 | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | July/August 2012 | WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG Veterans’ Service Open letter to Eric K. Shinseki, Secretary, Department of Veterans Affairs Fix the Back Log Honorable Secretary Shinseki, This letter will be brief, but pointed to some current concerns that affect the delivery or non delivery of benefits to incompetent veterans or their fiduciary. It has come to the attention of this organization that far too often veterans as wells as dependants who have been awarded benefits and due are not being paid in a timely manner. Due to a ever increasing backlog or hindered processing time these people die before they are paid. There is no doubt that you have heard people say that “they are just waiting for me to die so they won’t have to pay” As a veterans advocate for The American Legion since 1983, I would hope that you agree that this problem needs your attention; as while we cannot prevent the veteran from dying, we can do whatever it takes to make sure benefits are paid in a more expeditious manner in situations like this. An example is it should not take in excess of twenty (20) months to assign a fiduciary so that benefits which have already been awarded and authorized paid to the veteran or their fiduciary. We were under the impression that with the recent development of the fiduciary hub this proposed improvement would address this problem. It has not. I am not sure exactly where the problem lies, what I do know is that veterans as well as their survivors are dying before payments are released even after they have responded with all of the administrative requirements involved in the fiduciary assignment process. It is extremely frustrating as an advocate each time we are faced with situations like this. I really do like having to respond to that question, “Are they waiting for my mother to die so they won’t have to pay her?” In all honesty, I don’t think I should be com- pelled to answer that question; it should never have to be asked, in my opinion. Mr. Secretary, I have the utmost respect and admiration for you, the responsibility, the dedication and commitment you have for our nation’s veterans and their survivors. Your continuing efforts to bring the Department of Veteran Affairs in to the twenty first century by creating a system which is now more user friendly than ever before is a fantastic accomplishment which has been long overdue. With all the improvements, initiatives and changes, we cannot and must not allow ourselves to ignore the elderly institutionally disabled veterans or survivors who are just as, or more, in need than our newer veterans today. I ask you Mr. Secretary to take a moment to ask the questions, that need to be asked, find out how we can fix this problem so we don’t have to answer that question ever again. Thank you, Mr. Secretary for your attention to this matter, I look forward to your response and what I’m sure will be a resolution to this problem. Patriotic Items, Fundraising, Respectfully, Accessories, Shirts, Flags & More! Lannie R. Thomas http://emblem.legion.org/ DVSO American Legion Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Our staff is dedicated to providing the very best veterans’ advocacy to Michigan Veterans and Their families. They can assist with Claims Preparation, Presentation and appeal counsel in Veterans’ benefits services. Assist you and your Dependents in getting the Benefits that you have earned by your service to your Country

American Legion Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Mr. James C. Topps, Director Patrick V. McNamara Federal Building Room 1210 477 Michigan Avenue Detroit, MI 48226 Office Phone – (313)-964-6640 or (313)-964-6641 Office Fax (313)-964-5697 Cell Phone – (269)-312-2239 - e-mail – James C. Topps Director [email protected] – [email protected] Monday thru Friday 8:00 am to 4:00 pm

Erna LaBeau, Director’s Secretary – [email protected] Lannie Thomas, Department Service Officer – [email protected] Robert Rasche, Department Service Officer – [email protected] Tripp Cantwell, Department Service Officer – [email protected] Suzette Price, Department Service Officer – [email protected] Chris Smirnes, Department Service Officer – [email protected] Call the Detroit office for sevice officer schedule. www.michalaux.org | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | July/August 2012 | 11 2012 Department Convention Awards Americanism best year-round Report Pam Lajewski-Pearson 44/UPAA Donna Baley Citation-District Chrm-most Outstanding Americanism Program Membership Northeastern Unit 459/5th Eva Spaulding Citation- Unit- most Outstanding Charles A. Conklin 28/5th and Charles A. Hammond 8/7th TIED Orlene Americanism Program Penning Citation for the Unit having the Most new Juniors Evan Swanson 123/5th Mary Ripley Citation- Unit with Greatest Percentage of Charles A. Conklin 28/5th Chloe O’Neal Citation for the Unit with the greatest Activity numerical increase Kendra Weber 150/8th 1st Place Class 1 Department Essay Evelyn Hull, Chrm 19th District Elizabeth Lyons Citation for the District with the Jade Perez 381/9th 2nd Place Class 1 Department Essay Highest percentage increase Madyson Visscher 381/9th 1st Place Class 2 Department Essay Stamnitz-Lindeman 293/7th and Kalamazoo 134/3rd TIED Doyle Citation for Madisyn Karwalt 150/8th 2nd Place Class 2 Department Essay Unit having the highest percentage of goal on April 1 Autumn Kreps 150/8th 3rd Place Class 2 Department Essay 19th District Ethel Stitt Citation for District with greatest numerical increase Trevor Conklin 108/18th 1st place Class 3 Department Essay Stamnitz-Lindeman 293/7th Gladys Taylor Citation for the Unit having the Charles Willekes 459/5th 2nd Place Class 3 Department Essay highest percentage Madison Vasher 108/18th 3rd Place Class 3 Department Essay Stamnitz-Lindeman 293/7th Esther V. McCoy Citation for the Unit having the Hunter Bengry 44/UPAA 1st Place Class 4 Department Essay percentage of increase over last year Mirada Jones 377/18th 2nd Place Class 4 Department Essay Chief Pontiac 377/18th Patricia Donalson Citation for Units over 200 with the Douglas Anderson 44/UPAA 1st Place Class 5 Department Essay greatest numerical increase Jake Garcia 550/ 2nd 2nd Place Class 5 Department Essay Music Auxiliary Emergency Fund Donna Anderson, Chrm. 217/16th Goldie Brooks Citation to the Unit Chrm sub- Baroda Community 345/4th Margaret Rohrer Citation- Unit Contributing the Most mitting the best monthly reports per Member (Group 1) Donna Anderson, Chrm 16th District Hildegard Korff Citation to the District William G. Haan 151/6th Margaret Rohrer Citation- Unit Contributing the Most Chrm submitting the best monthly reports per Member (Group 2) Victor I. Rieck 351/7th Margaret Rohrer Citation- Unit Contributing the Most per National Security Member (Group 3) Betty Shaw 44/UPAA Agnes Dunn Citation to the Unit with the Best all-around Chief Pontiac 377/18th Margaret Rohrer Citation- Unit Contributing the Most per report Member (Group 4) Edward C. Headman 217/16th Margaret Rohrer Citation- Unit Contributing the Past Presidents Parley most per Member (Group 5) Poppy Children and Youth Cody Bredeweg 33/5th Class 2 1st Place Poppy Poster Contest Richard M. Jopling 44/ UPAA Louise Ferguson Citation for best program in the Megan TenFlshof 459/5th Class 3 1st Place Poppy Poster Contest Month of April Ross Martin 305/5th Class 4 1st Place Poppy Poster Contest Richard M. Jopling 44/UPAA Lynn D. Allen Citation for Best All-around Program Nicholas Rozegrol 305/5th Class 4 2nd Place Poppy Poster Contest Pinkney-Memorial 419/6th Helen Hodges Citation for the Largest Contribution Chelsea Kovacs 32/17th Class 4 3rd Place Poppy Poster Contest the Children and Youth Dept. Special Project Cody Rodriquez 305/5th Class 5 1st Place Poppy Poster Contest Anna LaBreche 44/UPAA Class 5 2nd Poppy Poster Contest Community Service Hassan Williams 459/5th Class 7 1st Place Poppy Poster Contest Victoria Medendorf, Northeastern 459/5th Betty Cline Citation to a Unit over 200 Terry Evans II 377/18th Class 7 2nd Place Poppy Poster Contest members for a single program Cassidy Kovacs 32/17th Class 7 3rd Place Poppy Poster Contest Victoria Medendorf, Northeastern459/5th The Lida Murphy Cup to the Unit with Shaunia Martin 108/18th Junior Miss Poppy Ages 6-12 the greatest number of Hours Reported Donna Anderson Edward C. Headman 217/16th Wilbur M. Brucker Cup to Public Relations the Unit with the best all-around Lynda Trickey 44/UPAA Ivy Lee Reinhardt Citation to the Unit with the best all-around Press Book Education Lynda Trickey 44/UPAA Leslie R. Kefgan Citation for the Unit with the most Carla Pohl, Chrm. Durkee-Seager 550/2nd Virginia Van Coverden Citation- Best inches in a daily newspaper all-around report by a Unit Chris Moore 459/5th Viola Starkey Citation to the Unit with the best “Unit of Joanna Maria Kolkman, D.W. Cassard 208/5th National Winner of the Children the Month” article of Warriors National Presidents Scholarship Deborah Williamson 258/5th Best Unit Publication Pamela McVeigh 5th Best District Publication Girls State Deborah Williamson 258/5th most innovative Public Relations Activities Junior Activities Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Cedar Springs 287/5th Amelia Muth Award for the Junior Group with the most Myron H. Beals 32/17th Nan Shepard Citation for the most referrals to the Legion, outstanding activity report Contributions and most Outstanding activities Kasie Jeffery, Walter Fraser 108/18th Junior Member of the Year Richard M. Jopling 44/UPAA Dorothy Pearl Citation for the greatest participa- tion in the Department Program Leadership Patricia Laine, Richard M. Jopling 44/UPAA My Mentor Award for encourag- Homeless Veterans ing another member to become a Good ALA member or Officer Sandra Snyder Chrm. 32/17th Certificate for Most outstanding Unit Report Marian Belaire Chrm 346/18th Certificate for most Outstanding Unit Report Legislati ve Ivy lee Reinhardt Chrm 377/18th Certificate for most Outstanding Unit Report Arlene Shanley Chrm, 16th District Alice Thomas for the District with the Most Helen Camilli Chrm 16th District, Certificate for most outstanding District Legislative Bulletin Subscriptions Report Mazie Williams, Chrm Dorie-Miller 306/6th Romaine Roethel Citation for the Ivy Lee Reinhardt 18th District, Certificate for most outstanding District Report 12 | July/August 2012 | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | www.michalaux.org 2012 – 2013 DEPARTMENT OFFICERS AND CHAIRMEN June 15, 2012 OFFICERS Kay Bauer ...... #16-7th June Holley ...... #141-6th President Mary Anne Yuncker .#287-5th Constitution and By-Laws 1st Vice President Sandra Snyder . . . . .#32-17th Chairman Donna Fuelling . . . .#232-16th Personal Scrapbook 2nd Vice President Nancy Knox ...... #351-7th Members Gloria Williams . . . .#59-5th Chairman Marcy Jorae ...... #153-8th Secretary-Treasurer Bonnie Olson . . . . .#225D Sharon Futey ...... #40-2nd Chaplain Susan Verville . . . . .#17-UPAA Personnel Historian Ellen Jackson ...... #108-18th Distinguished Guest Chairman Chairman Diana Bancroft . . . .#50-UPAA Parliamentarian Sandra Knapp . . . . . #4-7th Chairman Suzanne Knapp . . . .#4-7th Members Nedra Beal ...... #479-7th NEC Carrie Bowerman . .#42-3rd Theresa Wheeler . . .#2-5th Education Poppy DISTRICT PRESIDENTS Chairman Deanna Cortwright .#52-3rd Chairman Deloris Fuller . . . . .#528-5th 1st District Mable Midgett . . . .#126 Members Veronica Germany .#126-1st Members Patricia Johnson . . .#381-9th 2nd District Krystal Hall ...... #557 Bonnie Schuitema . .#33-5th Betty Lou Ware . . . .#4-7th 3rd District Corina Kramer . . . .#42 Finance 4th District Donna Mapes . . . . .#138 Chairman Shari German . . . . .#154-5th Public Relations 5th District Mary Tyler ...... #154 Members Sharon Schulte . . . .#347-1st Chairman Margo Forrester . . .#459-5th 6th District Janice Hodges . . . .#12 Norma Wojack . . . .#52-3rd Members Mary Dubay ...... #4-7th 7th District Betty Cline ...... #8 Janice Hafeman . . . .#244-UPAA Mazie Williams . . .#306-6th Girls State 8th District Marcy Jorae ...... #153 Resolutions Chairman Deborah Williamson #258-5th 9th District Georgia Downs . . . .#411 Chairman Kim Champion . . . .#377-18th Co-Chairman Beryl Robbins . . . . .#426-16th 10th District Vivian Avery ...... #274 Members Anne Michel ...... #349-UPAA Members Veronica Finch . . . .#419-6th UPAA District. Pam Lajewski-Pearson #44 Sheilah Dittenber . .#439-8th Rysta Brown ...... #274-10th 16th District . Darlene Walker . . . .#217 Cyndi Hacker . . . . .#559-UPAA 17th District Connie Kovacs . . . . .#32 Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Chairman Terri Brodock . . . . .#528-5th 18th District Janice Rollins . . . . .#63 Junior Activities 19th District Merilee Walter . . . .#281 Hospital Director Carol Parks ...... #362-4th Chairman Darlene Jones . . . . .#377-18th Field Service Sharon Therrien . . . .#108-18th Members Carrie Belle Crigier .#42-3rd Homeless Coord. Robin Puckett . . . . .#377.18th DISTRICT VICE PRESIDENTS Melissa Townes . . . .#287-5th 1st District Veronica Germany .#126 Leadership Ann Arbor VAMC 2nd District Loretta Gestwite . . .#557 Chairman Linda Dick ...... #165-10th 3rd District None Representative Krystal Hall ...... #557-2nd Members Patricia Jewell . . . . .#87-UPAA 1st Deputy Betty White ...... #322-2nd 4th District Binnie Price ...... #170 Donna Anderson . . .#217-16th 5th District Deborah Chambers #154 Legislative 6th District Susan Hilgris . . . . .#12 Battle Creek VAMC Chairman Sandra Snyder . . . . .#32-17th Representative Barbara Parks . . . . .#26-4th 7th District Kathleen Copeland .#4 Members Kay Mishler ...... #153-8th 8th District Sheila Dittenber . . .#153 1st Deputy Carol Parks ...... #362-4th Bobby Jean Stevenson #59-5th 2nd Deputy Christine Reed . . . . .#26-4th 9th District Carole Perkins . . . . .#411 Membership 10th District Dora Freeborg . . . . .#274 Chairman Linda Wallace . . . . .#419-6th UPAA Krystal Oberle . . . . .#290 Detroit VAMC Low Northern Sherry Losinski . . . .#94-9th Representative Artensia Wynn. . . . .#126-1st 16th District Francis Babbage . . .#217 Up Northern Marilyn Bruntjens . .#71-UPAA 17th District Claudia Barber-Martin #32 1st Deputy Glendora Trotter . . .#389-16th Eastern Susan Svacha ...... #351-7th 2nd Deputy Marie Miller ...... #232-16th 18th District Angela Galbraith . . .#63 Western LoraLee Nauta . . . . .#123-5th 19th District Evelyn Hull ...... #281 Southern Rose Callahan . . . . .#478-16th Grand Rapids Home for Veterans DEPARTMENT COMMITTEES Music Representative Sarah Brooks ...... #59-5th Administrative Advisory Board Chairman Phyllis Corner . . . . .#258-5th 1st Deputy Pamela McVeigh . . .#2-5th Chairman Priscilla Kelsey . . . .#184-1st 2nd Deputy Carolyne Bianchi . . .#258-5th Members Patricia Laine ...... #44-UPAA National Candidates Fund 3rd Deputy Rachel Granstra . . .#2-5th Judy Gregory ...... #557-2nd Chairman Anita Mennel . . . . .#45-4th Carrie Bowerman . .#42-3rd Donna Fuelling . . . .232-16th Hamilton Nursing Home Representative Veronica Germany Americanism Shari German . . . . .#154-5th Chairman Claudia Barber-Martin #32-17th Sandra Snyder . . . . .#32-17th Iron Mountain Members Kathleen Copeland .#4-7th National Cemetery Victoria VanWyk . . .#47-5th Fort Custer Eleanor Shelley . . . .#465-3rd Representative Barbara Larson . . . .#50-UPAA Auxiliary Emergency Fund Great Lakes Del. Pauline Bickersteth .#342-6th 1st Deputy Shirley Cuyler . . . . .#50-UPAA Chairman Judy Lynch ...... #43-UPAA Alt. Dolores Smith . . . . .#413-6th National Security D.J. Jacobetti Home for Veterans Children and Youth Chairman Nancy Knox ...... #351-7th Representative. Wanda Westman . . .#114-UPAA Chairman Deborah Chambers #258-5th Members Harriet Sturim . . . . .#459-5th 1st Deputy Diana Peterson . . . .#44-UPAA Members LeAnn Knott ...... #238-6th Krystal Oberle . . . . .#290-UPAA Bonnie Holt ...... #314-8th Saginaw VAMC Community Service Past Presidents Parley Representative. Bonnie Holt ...... #314-8th Chairman Kim Frazier ...... #232-16th Chairman Janice Kintz ...... #426-16th 1st Deputy Barbara Rulason . . .#416-10th Members Christine Merlington #287-5th Members Nancy Sagorski . . . .#2-5th 2nd Deputy Donelda Joseph . . . .#370-10th WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | July/August 2012 | 13 FRENCH GOVERNMENT HONORS RETIRED DOW VET, WWII HERO By Matthew Woods Miller was drafted just before his 18th birthday in July with their hands up. Although many shots were fired, [email protected] - 1944, requiring a deferment because he was not of serv- Miller managed to take all of the enemy soldiers alive. Midland Daily News ice age. After his basic training, Miller was assigned to Miller also detailed an eye-opening event that near- C RUMP - Family, friends and the 7th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Division, 7th Army. ly took his life early. While crossing a river, enemy sol- fellow veterans gathered at the "I served for exactly 23 months and 3 days," Miller diers fired on Miller and his buddies. American Legion Post 239 to said with a smile. "A bullet tore through my shirt sleeve," Miller said, honor a man who pushed his way Saturday's presentation ceremony was not the first holding his hands as if he cradled a rifle. "The bullet went through many battlefields in medal earned by the Army rifleman and eventual tech through my left sleeve below my wrist and completely France and Germany during the sergeant. Miller is the recipient of many medals and com- missed everything else," he said. "I was in the right spot Second World War. mendations, including two Overseas Service Bars, the at the right time." On Saturday, John J. Miller II Combat Infantry Badge, the Good Conduct Medal, Miller's adventures did not end there. Miller and his was honored by the French gov- the Bronze Star Medal and the European-African- company were said to be the first American soldiers to ernment with their Legion of Middle Eastern Campaign Medal. reach the Kehlsteinhaus, also known as the Eagle's Nest. Honor Chevalier medal for his Miller recounted how he won the Bronze Star Medal. This large structure was one of Hitler's retreats in actions while in the war. This medal was created by While clearing an area of land, Miller and his fellow sol- Berchtesgaden, a region in the German Bavarian Alps. order of Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802 to honor those diers came upon a house that caught their attention. The buildings were empty and their contents in who have aided or protected France in some significant "We saw wires running to the building," Miller said. shambles when the troops arrived, but their mission way. Current French president Nicolas Sarkozy is the lat- "We knew something was going on in there." was accomplished. est French leader to decree the presentation of these Miller said that gun fire suddenly came from one of We were there when they raised the American flag," medals. the windows and his commanding officer quickly lost Miller recalled. Jerry Sylvester, First Vice Commander of the post, said interest in the building. After his service in the Army ended, Miller returned this is the first time the chapter has seen this type of "He told me if I wanted to go in there, I was going to his home state and enrolled at the University of honor awarded. Along with his newest commendation, in by myself. Since it started snowing I wanted to sleep Michigan where he studied chemical engineering on Miller has received numerous accolades for his work in indoors, so I went in," he said. the GI Bill. When he graduated he went to work for The honoring his fellow service men. Miller charged inside with his 19-pound Browning Dow Chemical Co. in Midland and also worked for "John has been the representative for his unit in automatic rifle. He said several grenades thrown by his Dow Corning Corp. in several different capacities. numerous trips to Germany, France and Washington, comrades did not roust the enemy troops from the Miller worked 33 years for Dow, finishing up his career D.C., to receive awards," Sylvester said. house. at a Bay City facility. He retired in 1986. He was mar- On hand to help present Miller the honor was Dick Miller made it inside and ordered the enemies to sur- ried to his wife, Isabel, for 37 years until her passing in Chapman, state Legion Commander for the American render. They yelled something back, and he answered, 2000. Miller is the father of five children and has 10 Legion. with automatic rifle fire. grandchildren. "I can't tell you how honored I am to meet you," "I shot up the door to their room. That brought them When asked what he wanted people to remember from Chapman said of Miller. "You wanted France to be out," Miller said. the day's event, the 86-year-old hero simply said: "The free and you liberated its people." When the smoke cleared, five SS troops marched out other guys (American soldiers) did their jobs, too." LINDEN VETERAN FINALLY RECEIVES TRAGEDY STRIKES AFTER SURPRISE PURPLE HEART AFTER 59 YEARS Published: Saturday, June find who I needed to get the FLY OVER 02, 2012, 7:58 PM information to since he was By Nick Pulver, Post 392 tomary stop after doing parade Updated: Sunday, June 03, wounded and earned this flyovers when one of the planes 2012, 10:58 AM Purple Heart." Cattran said. On Memorial Day again this crashed near Perry,MI when it was By Amanda Emery | From there Cattran [email protected] worked with the American year a fly over of WW II aircraft in leaving for home, killing the pilots LINDEN, MI – A Legion in Detroit to help Deerfield was organized by Keith wife and seriously injuring him. Linden veteran got the sur- his uncle. It was in Diver (member post 392) of Thank you for the many pilots that prise of a lifetime Saturday December when Cattran Meyers/Diver Airport, Tecumseh risk their lives to make our parades when his friends and fami- learned his uncle would be MI. Tragedy struck after their cus- better. ly gathered to give him a able to claim his Purple long overdue honor. Ken Heart and the surprise plan- Maxwell, 82, of Linden, served in the Army ning began. Cattran contacted George Dolan, during the Korean War as a Medic. Maxwell a member of The American Legion, and Dolan was injured in the Battle of Pork Chop Hill and suggested they have a get together with coffee still to this day has flecks of shrapnel in his left and cake at the Masonic Lodge where The leg, that work their way out from time to time. American Legion has their meetings. Sherry At the time of his injury, Maxwell was offered Maxwell, Ken Maxwell's wife, said the family the Purple Heart for being injured during bat- had to "lie through their teeth" to keep the tle, but declined to take it because he was afraid secret from Maxwell. it would worry his mother. Maxwell said at "I just found out about this two weeks ago," times a soldier may have just received a small Sherry said. "I was worried he was going to find scratch to the arm and receive the honor, but out somehow, but he never did."When Maxwell the Army would mistakenly send the families the entered the hall to a standing ovation, he said wrong letters, so he said he didn't want to put he didn't know what was going on. He said he his mother through that. never gets emotional, but when he realized Saturday, Maxwell's family came together at what was going on he felt tears come to his eyes. the Masonic Lodge in Linden to give him the "I was surprised, and it means so much to have surprise he didn't see coming – his Purple my family here." Maxwell said. "To go through Heart. Maxwell's nephew, Kevin Cattran, something like a war, it means a lot to have this worked with him to get some of the VA bene- kind of honor." fits that he was eligible for. It was at this time Reprinted with permission: Amanda covers Cattran learned that his uncle refused his Purple Swartz Creek and Clayton Township and can Heart. "He recently asked if he could get it, so be reached at 810-875-2208 or I started looking around for the right contact to [email protected]. 14| MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | July/August 2012 | WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG GUEST WRITER/HR SPECIALIST Female Veterans Growing in IF YOU NEED A JOB, WE Numbers NEED YOUR RESUME!!! Beverly Jo List, Department Coordinator, higher than their male counterparts. Female Outreach Program One in five female veterans has suffered Upon say “Hello” in Africance. But what IS Military Sexual Trauma. 19 percent arriving in important is that we do our best to Did you know? female veterans from Operation Africa and Women are the fastest growing cohort Enduring Freedom (OEF) Operation “…speak in terms of the other per- within the Veteran Community. In 2011 Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Operation connecting sons interests.” ~Dale Carnegie and 1.8 million or 8 percent of the 22 Million New Dawn (OND) have reported MST with our what IS important that if you are veterans were women. It is estimated compared to males with a .9 percent. guide, it was looking for a job and/or a different that female veterans will increase from It is our duty to assist these women in intriguing to job that you let people know by send- 1.8 million in 2011 to 2 million by 2020, finding appropriate care throughout our listen to him ing them your resume! making up 10.7 percent of the total pop- state. This brochure will list all VA facil- communi- That being said, Rock Star ulace, while the male veteran populace ities, CBOCS and Vet centers in addition cate with Warriors, is now working directly will decrease from 20.2 million to 16.7 to services offered through various cities others in with the armed forces to forge col- million in 2020. The median age for and counties that a specific to female their native tongue of “Africance”. laboration between government and female veterans is 48 compared to males veterans. If you know of a resource for Which of course, made me think to business groups to support Michigan’s at 62. This information is all from the female veterans in your area pleasecon- myself, “Hmmmmm….I wonder veteran employment initiatives. This Veteran Affairs vet data site. tact me to include it in our brochure. what are they saying? I wish I could being said, we have companies con- For this reason the VA is actively Partnering with VA&R’s Service communicate with them in their lan- tacting us saying that they would like developing a campaign to further assist Officer School in Higgins Lake offering guage.” So, I said to our Guide, to hire a veteran so we need to be able female veterans. Through it’s “Because specific training to the officers about “Hendrick, would you please teach I CARE, I will” program, which stands female veteran’s and some of the unique to find you! for professionals who seek to embody needs they have due to their experiences me how to say ‘hello’ in Africance?” Therefore, send us your resume as the values of Integrity, Commitment, in the military. We have 2 great DVSO Young Hendrick looks at me and soon as you can to my attention! Advocacy, Respect and Excellence in female veteran’s on staff and their expe- with a silly smiles says, “Hello” which Thanks and thank you for your serv- service to our veterans. To piggyback on rience will make for an informative class. put me in stitches laughing as we say ice! Julie this program The American Legion is Don’t miss it. the word ‘hello’ the same! Julie Mann is the CEO & President of developing a Female outreach program Lastly we will be working with the This story brings us to the topic of JMann Consulting Group, The Rock Star which for the Department of Michigan Homeless veterans Task Force. While the resumes because resumes are our I am the coordinator. Our goal is to number of homeless veterans is decreas- way of speaking our language about Factory and newly launched Company, develop a brochure that will be good ing, we see the numbers rising for female what we do to the hiring company in RockStar Verified. The Rock Star Factory throughout the State of Michigan to homeless veterans. I wish everyone a what they are seeking. We create is a professional placement firm specializ- help point female veterans to resources successful year for their programs and our own ‘language’ when we talk ing in matching companies with rock star available for care. VA studies show that appreciate any support given to this new about what we did, when we did it quality employees, while JMann Consulting female veterans are diagnosed 22 percent committee. and how we did what we did! We Group provides on-call HR Manager services for small & medium sized businesses. then submit our resume hoping that UG RD we said things in the ‘language’ that RockStar Verified provides candidate employ- A 20-23 will intrigue the hiring manager to ment/skills verification services for both job LEGACY RUN ROUTE want to speak with us and/or meet seekers and employers. with us to discuss their job opening; Offices are located downtown at 216 N. •Aug. 20 – Assembly for The American Legion Legacy sometimes it appears hard (like learn- Chestnut Street and Julie can be contacted Run Home at American Legion Post 1451, Sanborn, NY ing Africance) and yet sometimes it is at 517.507.7568 or via email at (near Niagara Falls). easy as was evident in learning to [email protected]. • Aug. 21: Depart Post 1451 for Nagara Falls State Park. 45 minutes on Goat Island for photo shoot of the Legacy Run Home with Niagara Falls in background. Depart for gas stop and lunch at American Legion Post 535 in Salamanca, NY. Continue on to Vermillion, OH and end of day dinner event at Vermillion American Legion Post 397.

STOPPING IN GARDEN CITY, MICHIGAN • Aug. 22– Depart from Post 397 for lunch event and tribute at the ALR Founding Chapter at Garden City Michigan Post 396. Continue through Michigan countryside to end of day dinner event at American Legion Post 157, Quincy, Michigan and hotels in Coldwater, Michigan. • Aug. 23 – Depart Coldwater, Michigan for Indianapolis, Indiana, with refu- eling stop in Warren, Indiana. Arrive mid-afternoon at Speedway Post 500. Marshall into a large formation and conduct, under police escort, movement to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and a lap of the famous Indianapolis 500 racetrack. For more information visitwww.legion.org/riders. Registration is $50 for riders, and $25 for passengers. Expo registration alone is $25. The National Convention Parade is open to all ALR members free of charge. WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | July/August 2012 | 15 Attn: Wilwin Owners and Partners Sons of the American Legion Rodney Tolbert Elected Commander Delegates to Michigan’s Sons of The American Legion State convention held in Houghton Lake, Michigan on Sunday, June 3, 2012, elected Rodney Tolbert of the Edward W. Thompson Sons of The American Legion Squadron 49 in South Haven, Michigan as the 2012 – 2013 State Commander. Tolbert, a 20 year member of the Sons of The American Legion is the son of a Korean War veteran who served in the United States Army. Tolbert himself is also Are you a part owner? If you are a member of the Michigan American Legion, a veteran who served in the United State Army from 1976 you certainly are. The Department of Michigan is the sole owner of this subsidiary to 1979 as a special weapons expert. corporation. And the Auxiliary, SAL, and Legion Riders are true partners in the Commander Tolbert has been a Michigander all of his life. Born is planning, operation, and upkeep. This 600 acre remote property is less than an hour Ypsilanti, he moved to Benton Harbor at the age of seven. Rodney has 2 NW of the UP end of the Mackinaw Bridge. With an original value of $1.5 mil- children and 1 grandchild with another one on the way. lion that has now increased to $2.0 million, we are dedicated to first serve the heroes The Sons of The American Legion Detachment of Michigan represents returning from the combat areas and needing a time and a place to recuperate. All members of the Legion family of organizations are eligible for stays and should con- over 19,000 members in the State of Michigan. The Sons of The American tact Lou Oberle to check for costs and open times at the Lodge. (www.wilwin.org/con- Legion was founded in 1932 as a program of The American Legion. The tact_us) Sons of The American legion follows closely and supports “The Four Pillars” of The American Legion; veteran rehabilitation, Americanism, child welfare, OPEN HOUSE: July 14, 2012. and national security. For more information visit our website at www.michiganlegion.org FUNDRAISER: On July 21, 2012 Chief Pontiac Post 377 is holding a major fund raising event for the Wilwin Lodge. This huge event will begin about 2:00 PM and they are accept- ing donations of money and items for raffles, various types of auctions, and maybe prizes for fun contests. Those bringing items should arrive by about noon to have them included in the setup. You may call the Post or Bob Jones for other informa- Classifieds tion at 248-613-3023. SAFE MONEY! WAR RELICS It is a rain-or-shine event as good weather will allow some activities to be out- PRIVATE 8% Annuity Yr 1 WANTED side. A DJ with karaoke will begin at 3:00 PM and by 7:00 PM there will be music 3% Lifetime Minimum Guarantee Private collector paying by keyboard artist Brian Bosman. Post 377 will contribute 100% of all profits to COLLECTOR Why settle for less in a Bank CD? top dollar for daggers, Wilwin, so come and enjoy the fun and know that the money goes to a good cause. BUYING swords, medals, uni- German, Japanese, U.S. FREE CONSULTATIONS forms, etc. Call or write: This Clarkston area Post is approached by exiting I-75 at Sashabaw Road south. 800-720-4142 military items from all William Harbowy (Life Member) NATIONAL COMMANDER Will Be Visiting: wars. Top cash paid for Retirement / Ins / Investment Planning 7247 Weddel Street, Taylor, Airborne, Aviation, Pilot, Final Expense Insurance MI 48180 Commander Fang Wong learned of Wilwin at the Winter Conference and was Biblical Based Investments so impressed that he is paying a personal visit to the facility this summer. We Seal, Special Forces, OSS, (313) 386-2384 believe that this is proof that Michigan has an investment up there that we all can Ranger, Marine items. Also P.J. Harper, RIA, CSA, Registered Honorably Discharged be proud of. Representatives from the National publications department will be German medals, daggers, Investment Advisor, National Association Veterans attending and later this summer we could see articles about the Commander’s Wilwin of Christian Financial Consultants The Camp Curnalia Cottage swords, guns, personality Member, Legion Member Owner Association is a commu- visit. items and billion flags. www.harper-enterprises.com nity established for Veterans who have received an honor- Also Japanese swords, hel- Manchester, MI A BETTER LOOKING LODGE: able discharge from any branch mets and guns. of the United States Armed On May 18 a motor home arrived from Clarkston Post #63 with 6 hard work- BUYING Forces. ing guys to paint the Lodge exterior. They completed 2/3 of this big building, includ- Call for top cash offer Stamp & Cover All residents share access to Combat wounded vet Collections the sandy beaches located on ing the white windows and trim. It really looks great and another group will be able Call or write: the northern shore of beautiful to complete the job later this summer. (Post 63 is also paying $500.00 of the paint James Leslie (member), Wesley A. Kent Higgins Lake in Northern cost.) Barney Schoenfeld organized these guys and provided transportation. They 1217 Griswold St., (Member) Michigan. You would love call- 1410 Hillcrest NW ing this your vacation retreat or are Gerry Grzyinski, Charles Easton, Rennie Saigeon, Frank Sanders, and Don Port Huron, MI 48060 Grand Rapids, MI 49504 even your primary home. Carter. Not only were these guys hard workers but they did a terrific job and it was (810) 982-4203 (616) 791-2243 For more information about cot- tages for sale in this Veterans really appreciated. The Board of Directors thanks Post 63 and these workers. Community call 989-390-4208 or Visit: www.campcurnalia.com Camp Curnalia Cottage Post 63 workers help to beautify Owners Association P.O. Box the Wilwin Lodge 462 Higgins Lake, Michigan 48627-0462

Volunteers of the Iron Mountain VA Hospital accept a $100 check from VFW Post #2998 for patient activities. 16 | MICHIGAN LEGIONNAIRE & AUXILIAIRE | July/August 2012 | WWW.MICHIGANLEGION.ORG Around the State...

The Robert Vroman Post 122 of Wolverine Post Adjutant Joe Wildberg gives the commands to Ready, Aim and FIRE! in a gun salute during ceremonies at Vanderbilt. Legionnaires from Montrose Post #367 made and installed 625 flag holders in the Montrose Township Cemetery for the Memorial Day celebration. Veteran of the Year, Post 32's Ron Chapman with the Plaque

Beverly List with Wounded Warrior Chris Ochs of Flat Rock at the Flat Rock Memorial Day Parade. The Cub Scouts of pack 3175 and Boy Scouts of Troop 175 help American Legion Post 45 of Hastings, Michigan with the annual Flag Disposal Ceremony. Herman Bushnell of American Legion Post 178 presented the Americanism Award to Austin Cattley, Lansing Christian High School on Friday, June 1st.

At our June post meeting 28 new members are sworn in as Dexter Post 557 presented Dexter High School student Legionnaires at American Legion Charles A. Conklin Post 28 of Jake Claflin with the American Legion High School Award Grand Haven, MI. 50 YEARS OF SERVICE: Edgar Rupp was recognized at their May meeting. Jake participated in the American at the May meeting by the Blumfield American Legion Boys State program in 2011. Legion Post #229 for his 50 years of service to the organization.

The Color Guard of the Croswell Cecil Pictures of Commander Chatman and Jim Austin Field Post 255 recently met Eddie at Southgate Post 478 Memorial Service on Post 32 Honor Guard (salute ready) Murray, the former kicker of the Detroit Thursday May 24th Lions (1980-1991)