NATIONAL SECURITY Conatser: Early troop withdrawal would be a mistake

On the heels of a recent visit to Iraq, Legionnaire Martin Conatser - the national com¬ mander’s representative to the National Legislative Commis¬ sion - said a premature troop withdrawal would be disastrous for the Iraqis and the United States. MEMORIAM After a three-day visit to Iraq, Conatser - leading candidate for national com¬ 'A GENTLEMAN'S GENTLEMAN' mander - had a blunt message to Congress: PNC Carey passes away at 82. “The troops are doing their jobs, now do your jobs and By Steve Brooks support them. I met with Gen. Whenever Past National (David) Petraeus. All the troops Commander Thomas P. I talked to respect and believe in Cadmus needed advice, Jack him. The Senate confirmed Gen. Carey was there for him. But the Petraeus, and now Congress greatest piece of advice Carey must allow him to complete his gave him, Cadmus recalled, was mission - to build a safer, stable probably the simplest. Iraq that will not threaten its “He told me that you never neighbors or the United States. know when the Legion is going “Everytime we lose a soldier to take you,” said Cadmus, who, there, it is tragic. But the media like Carey, hailed from the dwell on the negative and report Department of Michigan. “He very little on the considerable told me just to take it one job at a successes. Everything I saw time and do each one to the best points to the fact that the surge of my ability. I did that, and I is working.” became national commander.” Religious differences are a John M. “Jack” Carey, who major problem in Iraq, but served as The American Legion’s Conatser pointed out that it if) national commander from 1978 took centuries for the United to 1979, passed away Aug. 4 at States to overcome many of its age 82. A 58-year Legionnaire, religious and racial tensions. Then-National Commander John W. "Jack" Carey discusses veterans preference and the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978 with Alan K. Camp¬ Carey was a member of Post 413 “I met an impressive Iraqi bell, chairman of the Civil Service Commission. A staunch supporter of veterans preference, Carey passed away Aug. 4 at age 82 • American Legion Library in Grand Blanc, Mich., where he general who was Shia and served as adjutant for 27 years. truly a gentleman’s gentleman. I Internal Affairs Commission different problem come up when commanding many Sunnis,” He later moved to Florida but miss him already.” before being elected as national they’re national commander, and Conatser said. “It didn’t seem to continued as a guiding force for Past National Commander commander at the 60th National that was the one that came up for be much of an issue to them, but other leaders in the organization. John “Jake” Comer, who often Convention in New Orleans. Jack,” Past National Commander it just demonstrates how the “As I went from county, visited Carey in Florida, also had During his tenure as national John H. Geiger said. “You never terrorists are able to stir things district, zone and state com¬ fond memories. commander, Carey strongly know in advance what that up among the masses. The Iraqi mander, he was always at our “When Jack went to Plant lobbied for pensions for World problem is going to be. Jack people can succeed, but we must department conventions and City (Fla.), he and Millie lived in War I veterans and was a staunch handled that well.” help them stamp out the always would have time to talk to an over-55 community,” Comer advocate of veterans-preference Geiger spoke highly of Carey terrorists.” me,” Cadmus said. “Later, when I said. “Jack made sure all of the hiring laws. The constitutionality on a personal level. “He repre¬ Conatser, a retired sergeant was campaigning for national houses always had U.S. Flags in of the practice came into sented Michigan very well, and major in the Illinois National commander, he and (Carey’s front of them. If someone didn’t question during Carey’s tenure, he was always a very strong part Guard, said that even though he wife) Millie went out of their way have a flag, Jack would order it and when the U.S. Supreme of our Midwest Caucus,” he said. always had great respect for the to help me campaign. He came for them.” Court ruled 7-2 that veterans “He was always able to do what U.S. military, he was still up from Florida, where he was He served as Michigan’s preference was constitutional, needed to be done, and he was surprised at how high morale is living at the time, just to help me. department commander from Carey hailed the decision as “a able to do it well. He was always among the troops he visited. He did that throughout my 1958 to 1959 and as a member of statement of allegiance to the a good friend and counselor. We “Naturally most would rather campaign. the National Executive Commit¬ veteran population by a grateful will miss him.” be home, and tour extensions “He was a great guy and tee from 1965 to 1967. He later nation.” always willing to listen. He was was chairman of the National “Everyone seems to have a See Carey on page 3 See Conatser on Page 2

Jj||THE American Legion NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION P.0. BOX 1055 • INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46206 U.S. POSTAGE PAID COMMANDER’S FREEDOM TEAM SALUTE PERMIT NO. 719 MESSAGE INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46206 Very proud, very honored Membership: PAGE 5 Your job, and mine PAGE 2

NATIONAL MEMBERSHIP TROOP SUPPORT ADJUTANT’S COLUMN Start spreading PX, commissary Helping take the the news opens at Fort Ben pain away PAGES 6-7 PAGE 12 PAGE 3

+ + 2 IDispatch! AUGUST 17,2007

COMMANDER’S MESSAGE PLANNER

AUGUST Membership: Your job, and mine 24-30 The American Hundreds of Legionnaires came to India¬ reserve units in your area. Share your vision programs define us. The work we do Legion National napolis this month for the annual National for bringing into The American Legion through our four pillars - Veterans Affairs Membership Workshop. Some were depart¬ thousands of servicemembers returning & Rehabilitation, National Security, Convention, Reno ment commanders and adjutants. Others home every day from Iraq and Afghanistan. Americanism, and Children & Youth - 24-30 American were district commanders. The primary Success stories can become even bigger if we benefit a wide spectrum of Americans. Legion Auxiliary goal for all attendees was to share member¬ take the time to share them with our fellow Through service, we build our membership. Convention, Reno ship success stories Legionnaires. It’s a symbiotic relationship we must and learn from them. Membership is everyone’s business. It nurture if we are to continue to flourish. 24-26 SAL National We had great discus¬ doesn’t matter what color of cap you wear, We are growing, up nearly 10,000 Convention, Reno sions about multiply¬ your branch of service or when you served. members from a year ago. So what we’re ing the work that It doesn’t matter if you joined the Legion 30 doing is working. 24-28 81st American members of The years ago or three months ago. We all have a This month, you will elect a new national Legion Baseball American Legion are duty to future generations of veterans to commander. I have had an amazing year as World Series, doing within our build a healthy, growing membership. your leader. I will remember and treasure it Bartlesville, Okla. communities and at Numbers alone strengthen our influence on for the rest of my life. But when I lay aside the state and national Capitol Hill when we lobby for mandatory my red cap and reach for my blue one, I SEPTEMBER levels. funding for VA health care, better pay for won’t be giving up my duty to help build our It’s critical that we U.S. servicemembers or concurrent receipt membership. I’m going to sell the qualities, 11 Patriot Day spread the word for disabled military retirees. When the benefits and value of The American Legion 14 POW/MIA within our organization national commander stands before Con¬ because I believe in who we are and what we Recognition Day about what we, as Legionnaires, are doing to gress and says, “I represent the nearly 3 do. Please keep doing the same. We’ve bring in new members while at the same million men and women of The American grown this year. We must continue to grow 15 Deadline for History time increasing renewals. If your post, Legion,” his words carry a lot more water because this isn’t just about us. It’s about all Book Contest district or department has developed a than veterans, families, communities, patriotism entries at National successful method for bringing back those “I represent the 2-million member Ameri¬ and a strong America. Headquarters members who once joined our ranks but can Legion.” Our power to lobby is greatly have since left the organization, tell other increased by the numbers we stand for when 16- 22 Employ the Older posts in your area. Bring it up at your we appear before Congress. Worker Week district meetings. Ask to make a presenta¬ Healthy membership numbers also make tion at your department executive commit¬ a financial impact. A growing membership 17 Citizenship Day tee meeting. Do the same if you’ve found a means more member dues, which means 21-23 National Children & successful way to target National Guard and more money going into our programs. Our Youth Conference, Indianapolis Canatser from Page 1 neither should we.” the warrior. global war on trrorism,” he said. OCTOBER can be demoralizing,” he said. As an Illinois Army National “I am proud that The “I always believed that, but after “But I didn’t meet anyone who Guard veteran who served American Legion passed seeing it firsthand, I am more 13- 14 SAL Fall NEC said the United States should during the Vietnam War era, Resolution 169, which reminds convinced than ever.” Meeting, abandon the mission there. If Conatser said he understands Americans that supporting U.S. Indianapolis the troops serving there don’t the importance of people troops also means supporting want to cut and run, then supporting both the war and their mission. Iraq is part of the 14 Child Welfare Foundation board of directors Correspondence and letters to the editor: STILL SERVING AMERICA EDITOR Steve B. Brooks meeting, The American Legion Dispatch Does your post have a unique community P.0. Box 1055 Indianapolis program, an innovative recruiting method or a CONTRIBUTORS Dispatch Indianapolis, IN 46206 creative way of spreading the Legion message James V. Carroll 14- 15 Auxiliary Presidents Subscriptions or customer service: that could be implemented at posts across the Matt Grills Published monthly. (317)630-1298 country? Tell us how your post and its members Jeff Stoffer and Secretaries Printed by HNE Printers, Columbus, Ind. Annual subscription rate: $15 are Still Serving America. DESIGNER Conference, All American Legion publications are entitled and encouraged to Editorial office: (317) 630-1352 In submitting your information, include your Matthew Everett Indianapolis Dispatch reproduce all staff-written stories within, but please credit full name, address and telephone number. Send as the source. far (317) 630-1280 SUBSCRIPTIONS 15- 16 Commanders your items, labeled Still Serving America, to the A proud member of The National American Legion Press Association. Online: www.legion.org PatMarschand and Adjutants correspondence address at left. Conference, ACTIVATION Indianapolis Want to get involved in one of The American Legion's many national programs? Do you have a guestion about veterans affairs, national defense or what is going on in Washington? All you have to do is pick up the phone or send an e-mail. 15-16 Commission American Legion Divisions National Emblem Sales Programs Junior Shooting Sports and committee Americanism/Children and Youth (888) 453-4466 American Legion Baseball (317) 630-1249 meetings, (317)630-1203 [email protected] (317) 630-1249 [email protected] Indianapolis [email protected] National Security/Foreign Relations [email protected] Legion College (202)861-2700 www.baseball.legion.org (317) 630-1265 17- 18 Fall National Finance (317) 630-1228 [email protected] American Legion Child Welfare Foundation [email protected] Executive [email protected] Public Relations (317) 630-1202 National Emergency Fund Committee Internal Affairs (317) 630-1253 www.cwf-inc.org (317) 630-1321 Meetings, (317)630-1330 [email protected] American Legion Endowment Fund [email protected] Indianapolis [email protected] The American Legion Magazine (317) 630-1202 National Oratorical Contest Legislation (317)630-1298 Boys Nation (317) 630-1249 19 Notification of (202)263-2981 [email protected] (317)630-1207 [email protected] 2008 Child Welfare [email protected] The American Legion Library [email protected] Foundation grant National Convention (317) 630-1366 Family Support Network [email protected] recipients (317) 630-1292 (317) 630-1395 [email protected] Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation (800) 504-4098 [email protected] (202)861-2700 [email protected] [email protected] AUGUST 17,2007 1 Dispatch % 3

NATIONAL ADJUTANT’S MESSAGE AMERICANISM Helping take the pain away

Gunner’s bicycle was entered into one of the contests during the show, and the Post 18 Riders made sure it won first place, earning Gunner a trophy. “When they presented Gunner with the trophy, it was one of the greatest things ever for him,” Mark said. “He literally slept with the trophy for days.” Post 18’s Riders kept in constant contact with Gunner until he passed away, taking him for rides on their motorcycles. They even made him an honorary Legion SAL National Commander Earl Ruttkofsky, far left, and National Rider. Commander Paul A. Morin congratulate air-rifle champions Demp¬ “When Danny presented him with his vest, Gunner ster Christenson and Noel Maxwell. -,»»&»»« wouldn’t take it off. He even challenged me, asking me when I was going to get a vest,” Mark said. “He was Thirteen-year-old Kentucky literally a Rider in his own eyes. The Riders really helped girl youngest winner ever take his pain away.” Daniel Bustamonte presents Gunner Shultz with an American Legion Riders Another fundraiser brought in $1,000, and a similar in Air Rifle Championship vest. Shultz passed away in May after battling a brain tumor. nmpmM event is planned for next year, complete with live music. Noel Maxwell, a 13-year-old shooter from Thanks to the efforts of Kansas American Legion Riders Bowling Green, Ky., preformed under intense Kansas American Legion Riders Department Chairman Cregg Hansen, Bean said, pressure in the final shoot-off to capture the make a difference in the life of a terminally ill boy. Gunner’s cemetery monument has Post 18’s Riders’ Sporter crown at the 17th annual American symbol etched on it. His family donated Gunner’s Legion Junior Air Rifle National Championship patches, vest and trophy to Post 18, and the items are in a Aug. 9-11. One record was broken as 30 junior air By Robert W. Spanogie display case honoring the young boy. And Mark, already rifle competitors met at the Olympic Training Gunner Shultz never had a chance to get a driver’s a Post 18 Legionnaire, became a Legion Rider earlier this Center in Colorado Springs, Colo.. license and take off on a motorcycle of his own. But some month. His bike is the same one on which Bustamonte Maxwell, the youngest national champion in American Legion Riders in the Department of Kansas took Gunner for his final ride. the 17-year history of the program, claimed the made sure that Gunner knew what it was like to be one of Not every story has a happy ending. In a perfect world, Sporter championship, scoring 2,309.7 out of a them before the young boy passed away. Gunner grows to the age that some of us are right now. possible 2,509 points. She shoots for the Corvette On May 9, Gunner died of a brain tumor at age 6. In He experiences a full life and eventually has a family of City Shooting Team, which is sponsored by the final year of his life, he struck up a special relation¬ his own. But we don’t live in a perfect world, and we play Warren Post 23 in Bowling Green. ship with American Legion Riders from Post 18 in with the hand we’re dealt. Gunner did so without Seventeen-year-old Dempster Christenson of Arkansas City, Kan., even becoming an honorary complaint, and while Bean, Bustamonte and the other Sioux Falls, S.D., won the overall Precision member. Post 18’s Riders helped raise money to offset the Legion Riders made sure the little boy experienced plenty championship with a score of 2,462.2 of a possible costs of Gunner’s medical expenses, but the bond went far of joy in his final year of life, Gunner easily repaid the 2,509. Christenson is a member of the Humboldt beyond fundraising. favor to the Legion Riders. Sharpshooters, sponsored William H. Crippen “He was a wonderful little boy,” said Charlie Bean, “He was a strong little boy,” Bean said. “I still get Post 62 in Humboldt, S.D. Post 18’s Legion Riders director. “We all loved having him emotional when I talk about him. He really made an Kurt Hakola set the new Sporter final shoot-off around us.” impact on all of us.” record of 96.4 out of possible 109, eclipsing the old Mark Shultz, Gunner’s father, said the Riders lifted his record of 93.7 set in 2004. Hakola also finished son’s spirits like no one else. fifth overall in the Sporter category with a score of “Gunner always smiled when he was around these 2,263.4. The Port Crane, N.Y., native shoots for the guys, no matter how he was feeling,” Mark said. “That Binghamton Rifle Club, sponsored by Conklin was great for me and my wife (Kelly). It made us feel Post 1845. wonderful seeing him so happy.” Top finishers, Precision competition: Gunner met the Riders through a working relationship Second place: Kyle Smith, score of 2,459.9, from between Mark’s cousin and Post 18 Legion Rider, Daniel DuBois, Pa., shoots for DuBois Rifle and Pistol Bustamonte, who approached the Riders about conduct¬ Club sponsored by DuBois Post 17. ing a fundraiser on Gunner’s behalf in June 2006. It took Third place: Abigail Stanic, 2,452.8, Wadsworth, little convincing to get the post to approve the idea. Ohio, Ashland Eagles, Fairview Park Post 738. “This is part of our mission statement: helping youth,” Fourth place: Joseph Walkowicz, 2,457.0 Bean said. “When we brought it up to the members, the Nashville, Tenn., Montgomery Bell Academy, reaction was very favorable.” Brentwood Post 156. The Riders conducted a poker run and show-and-shine Fifth place: Matthew Pueppke, 2,448.0, Amenia, at Island Park in Gunner’s hometown of Winfield, with N.D., Buffalo Sharpshooters, Dokken & Schro- the participation of local car clubs. They sponsored eder Post 223. raffles, and in the end, they raised more than $1,700 for Gunner Shultz's grave marker is engraved with the symbol of the American Top finishers, Sporter competition: Legion Riders of Post 18 in Arkansas City, Kan. the Shultz family. But that wasn’t the high point for Mark. Second place: Marco Aguayo, 2,308.3, McAllen, Texas, Pharr-San Juan-Alamo High School JROTC marksmanship team, Vermund G. Corey from page 1 Carey returned to the United States to 1984. He was credited with Hanson Post 101. Born on Oct. 26,1924, in Mount in 1946, re-enrolled at Central developing one of the first codes of Third place: Kaitlyn Martin, 2,288.5, Peralta, Pleasant, Mich., Carey took an early Michigan University without the ethics used by local governments. N.M., Valencia County 4-H Shooting Sports, interest in accounting and worked benefit of a scholarship, and met Grand Blanc City Council mem¬ Post 85. part-time for a local oil company in Millie. They married in 1948. bers observed a moment of silence at Fourth place: Joe Montanez, 2,272.7, Pharr-San that department. He was awarded a Carey graduated in 1950 and the start of their Aug. 8 meeting in Juan-Alamo High school JROTC, Vermund G. scholarship to Central Michigan taught accounting at Grand Blanc honor of Carey. Hanson Post 101. University and planned to study High School, while coaching football, “Whenever we saw each other, we The tournament staff selected Martin as the accounting, starting in 1942, but basketball and baseball. He later took also talked about golf or shared a recipient of the annual Francis M. Redington instead he bypassed a deferment and a position with General Motors in joke,” Department of New York Sportsmanship Award as the athlete competing in asked that his draft number be moved accounting and engineering. Adjutant Richard Pedro said. “I the national championship who best exemplified up. He was sworn into the Army on Well-respected and popular in always looked forward to seeing him.” good sportsmanship and fair play. March 23, 1943. He fought in the Grand Blanc, Carey was elected Jack is survived by Millie, his son A famous alumnus of the program, 1992 rifle Pacific theater during World War II mayor in 1969 and served four terms John, and daughters Janice and Olympic Gold medalist Launi Meili, was in and as a member of Gen. Douglas before taking a temporary leave of Marcia. Condolences can be sent to attendance this year. Meili got her start through a MacArthur’s engineering group was absence to become national com¬ the family at 182 Old Mill Drive, Plant shooting program sponsored by the Cheney, among the first U.S. soldiers to enter mander. He returned to Grand Blanc City, FL 33565-8794. Wash., American Legion Post. She serves as the Tokyo. and served as mayor again from 1981 Carey’s “Taps” notice is on Page 11. rifle coach for the U.S. Air Force Academy.

+ 41 Dispatch 1 AUGUST 17,2007

2007 NEF CHALLENGE 2007 CWF CHALLENGE 2007 CAF CHALLENGE American Legion Auxiliary National Contributions Contributions Contributions starting 2006 Percent starting 2006 Percent starting 2006 Percent President JoAnn Cronin Department 2007 goal National Convention of goal Department 2007 goal National Convention of goal Department 2007 goal National Convention of goal dill] JML PidllUlldl Commander Earl CATEGORY I - 100,000+ Category 1 Group A Ruttkofsky joined with California $132,562 $1,500.00 1.13% Arkansas $397 $748.52 188.54% Florida $38,425 $8,361.00 21.76% National Commander Florida $137,266 $3,962.00 2.89% District of Columbia $105 $93.00 88.57% Illinois $46,032 $5,345.00 11.61% Paul A. Morin this year to Illinois $128,972 $12,321.75 9.55% France $274 $1,450.08 529.23% Indiana $60,484 $5,570.87 9.21%

American Legion family's Indiana $115,703 $7,697.04 6.65% Hawaii $28 $10,887.97 38885.61% Iowa $35,511 $1,100.00 3.01% programs: the National Minnesota $107,649 $10,000.00 9.29% Idaho $628 $2,637.58 420.00% Michigan $32,826 $1,030.00 3.14% Emergency Fund, the New York $164,475 $42,718.95 25.97% Mississippi $382 $4,415.68 1155.94% Minnesota $51,414 $3,105.00 6.04% National Veterans Ohio $138,391 $12,382.26 8.95% Montana $666 $2,314.72 347.56% New York $53,939 $2,743.00 5.09% Creative Arts Festival and the Child Welfare Pennsylvania $223,745 $5,270.00 2.36% Nevada $142 $2,495.00 1757.04% Ohio $53,718 $1,600.00 2.98% Foundation. The goal this CATEGORY II-70,000+ North Dakota $570 $1,325.00 232.46% Pennsylvania $66,295 $1,221.00 1.84% year was to fill the coffers Maryland $73,831 $14,054.00 19.04% Oklahoma $727 $799.67 110.00% Wisconsin $30,554 $6,702.00 21.93% of each of these funds Michigan $89,474 $14,450.60 16.15% Philippines $0 $0.00 0.00% Group B with the generous donations of American New Jersey $68,539 $4,439.70 6.48% Rhode Island $342 $101.51 29.68% Arizona $14,605 $5,560.00 38.07%

Legion family members Texas $88,016 $8,094.00 9.20% South Carolina $867 $4,761.92 549.24% California $28,882 $11,418.16 39.53% nationwide, to continue Wisconsin $73,655 $1,784.51 2.42% South Dakota $308 $1,042.65 338.52% Kansas $20,568 $176.00 0.86% our legacy of giving back CATEGORY III-40,000+ Utah $485 $1,805.21 372.21% Maryland $28,300 $5,791.22 20.46% to our most needy. Arizona $46,206 $1,578.00 3.42% Wyoming $1,012 $7,787.00 769.47% Missouri $18,551 $2,533.50 13.66% Morin, Cronin and Georgia $52,123 $32,151.85 61.68% Category II Nebraska $28,234 $733.00 2.60% Ruffkofsky challenged every department Iowa $66,921 $2,110.50 3.15% Alabama $2,192 $12,633.28 576.34% New Jersey $13,279 $2,172.00 16.36% commander, president Kansas $45,176 $586.00 1.30% Alaska $1,444 $1,917.46 132.79% North Dakota $15,898 $366.00 2.30% and SAL commander to Massachusetts $57,233 $2,100.00 3.67% Colorado $2,681 $15,019.65 560.23% South Dakota $16,614 $827.00 4.98% do all they can to raise Missouri $58,360 $2,402.65 4.12% Connecticut $1,749 $5,041.39 288.24% Texas $25,794 $2,792.00 10.82% funds equal to their 2006 delegate-strength Nebraska $47,900 $7,378.59 15.40% Delaware $1,754 $4,453.58 253.91% Group C membership North Carolina $46,765 $1,050.00 2.25% Iowa $2,200 $2,183.50 99.25% Georgia $11,409 $1,005.00 8.81% achievements. Virginia $57,699 $4,080.00 7.07% Louisiana $1,803 $2,246.63 124.61% Kentucky $9,145 $6,942.08 75.91%

Departments with the Washington $37,774 $4,200.00 11.12% Maine $2,496 $1,249.50 50.06% Louisiana $10,945 $245.00 2.24% highest percentage in CATEGORY IV-25,000+ Missouri $2,757 $4,857.82 176.20% Maine $10,711 $736.00 6.87% each category will receive Colorado $25,526 $1,356.00 5.31% New Mexico $6,405.23 442.35% Massachusetts $8,769 $972.00 11.08% crystal Revere Bowls at $1,448 their respective national Connecticut $28,595 $1,339.00 4.68% North Carolina $1,656 $1,392.15 84.07% New Hampshire $9,230 $937.00 10.15% conventions. Kentucky $30,627 $520.00 1.70% Oregon $1,662 $6,599.00 397.05% North Carolina $8,939 $140.00 1.57%

The winning American Louisiana $32,936 $1,020.00 3.01% Tennessee $1,714 $2,920.01 170.36% Oklahoma $9,118 $4,730.00 51.88%

Legion family Maine $25,742 $580.00 2.25% Washington $2,310 $20,299.57 878.77% Oregon $8,943 $390.00 4.36% departments in each New Hampshire $23,970 $1,985.00 8.28% Wisconsin $2,804 $7,139.22 254.61% Vermont $9,701 $517.00 5.33% category were: Oklahoma $27,039 $1,215.00 4.49% Category III Washington $10,153 $1,596.69 15.73% National Emergency 2.65% Arizona $4,852 $29,965.98 617.60% West Virginia $9,900 $610.50 6.17% Fund Oregon $25,631 $678.00 2.96% $4,614 $6,122.32 132.69% Group D Category 1 - New York South Carolina $28,447 $841.10 Georgia 7.32% Kansas $5,455 $13,475.92 247.04% Alabama $7,611 $2,390.00 31.40% Category 2-Maryland South Dakota $25,522 $1,869.00 14.16% Kentucky $4,304 $3,518.49 81.75% Arkansas $5,330 $50.00 0.94% Category 3 - Georgia Tennessee $33,274 $4,711.00 $25,992 $5,490.00 21.12% Massachusetts $5,276 $5,151.47 97.64% Colorado $6,965 $1,260.00 18.09% Category 4 - West West Virginia Virginia CATEGORY V-10,000+ Nebraska $5,558 $8,007.54 144.07% Connecticut $5,373 $1,655.00 30.80% Category 5 - Mississippi Alabama $25,554 $200.00 0.78% New Hampshire $5,970 $5,355.19 89.70% Mississippi $5,590 $550.00 9.84%

Category 6-Hawaii Arkansas $20,007 $20.00 0.10% Vermont $3,888 $10,775.50 277.15% Montana $4,892 $269.00 5.50%

Child Welfare Delaware $11,970 $1,000.00 8.35% Virginia $4,045 $21,478.06 530.98% New Mexico $5,128 $3,641.95 71.02%

Foundation Idaho $11,561 $1,334.14 11.54% West Virginia $3,205 $2,817.50 87.91% South Carolina $5,192 $0.00 0.00%

Category 1 - Hawaii Mississippi $18,782 $19,621.07 104.47% Category IV Tennessee $7,214 $2,620.00 36.32%

Category 2-Washington Montana $12,697 $4,667.27 36.76% California $7,911 $18,489.76 233.72% Virginia $9,025 $1,100.00 12.19%

Category 3-Arizona Nevada $9,716 $4,188.00 43.10% Florida $11,203 $42,350.47 378.03% Group E

Category 4-Florida New Mexico $13,553 $10,669.75 78.73% Minnesota $10,384 $7,232.83 69.65% Alaska $3,574 $500.00 13.99%

Category 5-Ohio North Dakota $20,608 $710.00 3.45% New Jersey $9,031 $16,765.12 185.64% Delaware $4,405 $1,450.00 32.92%

Creative Arts Festival Vermont $16,666 $1,000.00 6.00% Texas $5,984 $22,244.23 371.73% District of Columbia $187 $25.00 13.37%

Category 1 - Wisconsin CATEGORY VI-10,000- Category V Hawaii $405 $560.00 138.27%

Category 2-California Alaska $7,950 $12,710.00 159.87% Illinois $14,538 $17,157.23 118.02% Idaho $3,644 $220.00 6.04%

Category 3 - Kentucky District of Columbia $2,773 $2,025.00 73.03% Indiana $36,103 $28,821.49 79.83% Nevada $2,363 $325.00 13.75%

Category 4-New Mexico Hawaii $3,615 $10,735.00 296.96% Maryland $15,053 $14,952.25 99.33% Philippines $663 $0.00 0.00%

Category 5 - Hawaii Puerto Rico $7,270 $3,390.00 46.63% Michigan $18,882 $23,193.43 122.83% Puerto Rico $2,279 $100.00 4.39%

Rhode Island $8,782 $2.00 0.02% New York $25,703 $13,000.72 50.58% Rhode Island $1,672 $305.75 18.29%

Utah $9,726 $150.00 1.54% Ohio $29,829 $121,916.56 408.72% Utah $3,577 $120.00 3.35%

Wyoming $7,818 $275.00 3.52% Pennsylvania $43,365 $17,922.82 41.33% Wyoming $4,376 $540.00 12.34%

TOTALS $2,600,000 $290,613.73 11.18% TOTALS $312,756 $587,738.38 187.92% TOTALS $886,351 $105,649.72 11.92% AUGUST 17,20071 Dispatch 15

FREEDOM TEAM SALUTE 'VERY PROUD, VERY HONORED' “It’s hard to put into words,” he says. “It’s just a great honor, and I’m very proud. I have my (certificate of apprecia¬ tion) hanging in my office. It’s just a good feeling.” Following the presentation - which was co-hosted by Philadelphia’s Walter L. Mason Federal Post 152 - Beck offered similar Freedom Team Salute honors to veterans from World War II, the Korean War, Operation Desert Shield and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Nearly 41,000 Pennsylvania veterans have been honored through the program. “I was in awe when I was first con¬ tacted about this, but what really got my attention was that I was told I could present these certificates to other veterans,” Beck said. “It was a great honor for me. That was actually the highlight of my trip.” Beck is visiting American Legion posts to spread the word about the Freedom Team Salute program. “I want to tell people what this program is about, what it meant to me, and let them know that they can be included in this,” he said. “It’s a bond of brothers. It’s people helping people. It’s veterans helping veterans.” Vietnam War veteran Bill Beck is the millionth veteran to be honored by the U.S. Army's Freedom Team Salute program, In which The American Legion is a partner. Beck is a Army Col. Scott Lloyd, director of member of Post 109 in Mechanicsburg, Pa., and now serves as a Freedom Team Salute spokesman. r.Mtmscw Freedom Team Salute, said having The American Legion as a partner in the Legionnaire becomes millionth at Bustleton Memorial Post 810 in spent a total of 14 months serving in program is critical for its success. Philadelphia. Freedom Team Salute is an Southeast Asia. “If we re having trouble keeping in Freedom Team Salute honoree. official program sponsored by the Army “I was back from the war early on touch with our military soldiers through¬ When Bill Beck returned from secretary and chief of staff to honor because I was in the first division sent out the country, think about 10 years Vietnam in 1966, the 1st Battalion, 7th Army veterans and their supportive over,” said Beck, 64, a member of from now, 20 years from now, 30 years Cavalry Regiment M60 machine gunner parents, spouses and employers alike. American Legion Post 109 in Mechanics¬ from now,” Lloyd said. “It’s through such felt isolated. Only when other veterans The American Legion is a partner in the burg, Pa. “I didn’t share a lot with my great organizations as The American began returning from the war did Beck program, which presents each recipient family and friends when I came back. Legion and other veterans service feel he had others in whom he could an official Army lapel pin mounted on a I just didn’t feel comfortable sharing organizations that we can maintain this confide. card, an official Army decal, and a letter either the good times or the bad times. connectivity.” It took even longer for someone to of thanks and certificate of appreciation As veterans began to filter back from the For more information on the U.S. properly thank Beck for his service to the signed by both the Army secretary and war, I found people I could share my Army’s Freedom Team Salute program or United States. chief of staff. feelings with. It takes awhile to be able to to submit the name of someone you On July 4, Beck became the millionth Beck fought in the la Drang battle in do that.” would like to see honored, go online to veteran honored by the U.S. Army’s South Vietnam depicted in the Mel Beck struggled to describe his feelings www.freedomteamsalute.com. The Freedom Team Salute during a ceremony Gibson movie “We Were Soldiers.” He about receiving a Freedom Team Salute. program is free.

NATIONAL CONVENTION Coins commemorating 89th National Convention to be available In honor of The American Legion’s to Honorary Past National Commander 89th National Convention and those who Thomas Miller, an adopted Nevada son Coins commemo¬ served in the U.S. military, a .999 pure with a history in Ely, Nev., and the mines rating the 89th American Legion silver collector’s medallion is available there. Miller always carried an 1879 National Convention for purchase. The medallions have been silver dollar in his pocket. When chal¬ in Reno will be avail¬ struck at the Nevada State Museum in lenged in Paris during the founding able for purchase at Carson City on Historic Coin Press No. caucus, Thomas Miller used his 1879 the convention or by 1, which was put into service Feb. 11, silver dollar as a gavel, reminding a e-mail. 1870, at the U.S. mint in Carson City. brigadier general that there is no rank Coins with the CC mint mark are highly among Legionnaires when he said, “You, sought and prized by collectors. In sir, are out of line. If you do not take your addition to the CC mint mark, the seat you will be removed from this hall.” medallion will commemorate the rich The host city of the 89th National Cold War and the testing of nuclear Orders placed prior to the 89th history and contributions of The Ameri¬ Convention is recognized with the words weapons. All figure into the state motto, National Convention will be priced at can Legion and Nevada to a strong “Reno, Nevada,” and the dates of the “All for our country.” $50. After the convention, the price will America. convention. The mountains symbolize Hoover Dam, one of the seven go up to $60. Some medallions will be Across the top of the medallion are the rugged beauty of Nevada, which has wonders of the modern world, also is available for purchase at a booth in the the words “American Legion.” more mountain ranges than any other pictured on the medallion. Love of vendor’s hall during the convention, Underneath is a banner from Nevada’s state. The miner gazing into the distance nature is reflected in a depiction of where orders can be placed. flag, depicting its introduction to links the state’s history of mining and its Nevada’s state mammal, the bighorn For more information about the statehood during the Civil War: “Battle hope for the future. The mushroom cloud sheep. The Great Seal of the State of medallion or to place an order, e-mail Born.” The date 1879 shows the state’s tie depicts Nevada’s contributions to the Nevada appears on the reverse side. [email protected]. 6 IDispatch 8 AUGUST 17,2007

MEMBERSHIP START SPREADING THE NEWS

During the 2007 National Membership Workshop in Indianapolis, National Legislative Commission consultant Dave Rehbein of Iowa urges Legionnaires to use face-to-face contact not only when recruiting new members for the organi¬ zation, but when dealing with posts in their respective districts.

Membership will continue to grow if release went out, we got 600 new mem¬ bers. People saw what we were doing in Legionnaires are vocal about all the The American Legion family and working good the organization does. for those veterans, for those GIs, and that’s what it’s all about. Unfortunately, we keep it to ourselves. We don’t tell the By Steve Brooks world about it, and we need to toot our Heading into the 89th National own horn. Convention in Reno, Nev., later this “We’re going to ride into Reno with month, The American Legion is ahead of 10,000-plus members more than we where it was at the end of2006 in mem¬ closed the books with on Dec. 31,2006. bership numbers. One way to continue We can say to those naysayers that The that growth is to tell prospective and American Legion is not a dying organiza¬ former members about the good the tion. All we have to do is work together to organization is doing. work the programs of The American That message dominated the National Legion, and people will join our organiza¬ American Legion leaders from across the country attended the National Membership Workshop in Indianapolis in Membership Workshop in Indianapolis tion.” July. Success stories from post and department programs were among the ideas shared by participants. Aug. 2-4. Key membership officials from Morin urged Legionnaires to seek out across the country met to discuss strate¬ ways to promote their local posts and Solicitation), new members are joining. need to make those phone calls or knock gies and listen to Legion leaders offer departments, such as taking advantage of It’s those who have belonged to our on those doors and do the simplest thing. advice about growing the organization. free space on advertising billboards and organization who we need to concentrate Say, ‘Thank you for paying your dues and National Commander Paul A. Morin - working with community newspapers and on,” he said. “When we look at the supporting The American Legion,’ and who flew in from Australia to speak at the public-access television stations. national number, it’s not the one- or two- then give them something. Tell them what workshop - told attendees how a single “There are ways we can market without year member who is not renewing. It’s you are doing locally and what’s happen¬ press release issued in July quickly raised the cost,” he said. “We work the programs, those who have belonged for 20,30,40 ing in your department or nationally. If more than $25,000 to buy phone cards for and we stop keeping it a secret within and 50 years who are not renewing, and they haven’t renewed, ask them why not.” patients recovering at Landstuhl Military ourselves and tell America what we’re that bothers me. I believe we’re not doing During the three-day workshop in Hospital in Germany. The project, doing. Then membership will come.” our job at the local level when you see Indianapolis, attendees broke into small Operation Landstuhl, is also having a Morin said former members are most someone who’s not renewing with that groups and learned about American positive effect on membership. likely to renew after they hear about new kind of years of membership in our Legion public relations, Reconnect “When we put that press release out and interesting programs launched by the organization. programs, post development and mentor¬ last week on Military.com, we were organization. “We need to make those membership ing. District commanders attended special averaging 15 new members on that system “Between the traditional way of being rosters, and we need to divide them sessions on successful district team a day,” Morin said. “The day that press asked and through DMS (Direct Mail among those active members, and we building and communication. AUGUST 17,2007 5 Dispatch 17

LEFT: Nebraska Legionnaire Roy Vap describes his department's County Government Day program, which is a partnership with Army Recruiting Command to expose high-school students to potential careers in the military. The program has had the positive effect of bringing new members into The American Legion. BELOW: Department of Montana Commander Dave McLean asks a question during a presentation by the National Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Division. Workshop participants heard how current American Legion programs can lead to increased membership through service.

Photos by James V. Carroll

Martin “Marty” Conatser, leading the leaders of this organization to take a any intelligence. That’s what it’s for - our As sponsors, American Legion posts candidate for national commander and minute and think about post visits. On a comrades trying to deal with VA. provide a venue for a luncheon for the national commanders representative post visit, the leader’s job is to be positive, Without a service officer by their sides, participating students. Under the new on the National Legislative Commission, to tell the positive stories, to go forward without that expert, their lives get a lot partnership, the Army offers a speaker was visiting U.S. troops in Iraq during the and give the post ideas. Posts want to be harder.” and foots the bill for the meals. Army workshop but spoke to the group via a successful. It’s your job as a leader to talk In order to build membership num¬ recruiters give brief presentations about remote video presentation. about the good things The American bers, Legionnaires need to establish an military careers and scholarship oppor¬ “I want to talk about the value of Legion is doing. As leaders, we must be early relationship with U.S. servicemem- tunities, followed by a question-and- membership, not just the cost of member¬ the positive influence in our organization. bers both serving in and returning from answer session between students and the ship - the good things being a member of We must tell the positive stories.” tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, National main speaker before they return to the The American Legion does for you,” Dave Rehbein, National Legislative Membership & Post Activities Committee county courthouse. Conatser said. “We all like to belong to Commission consultant, agreed. Chairman Linda Perham said. More than 3,000 students are expect¬ organizations that are winners, and that’s “Why should (members) care enough “The young men and women and their ed to take part in the program this year. what The American Legion is. This year to go out there and do that face-to-face families serving today need our support,” The partnership also has helped Vap’s shows it. Were going to show growth work if we as the leadership don’t care she said. “We’re here to be there for them. Post 238 in Red Cloud achieve nearly again this year for the first time in a enough to go visit them?” he asked. “Post That’s all we ask of you. We know how 130-percent membership. Nebraska couple years, and we have a lot to be proud visitations are the most important thing important it is knowing there is an Legionnaires have shared the Legion of in our programs and ideals. But it’s our you can do this year. Get out amongst extended family out there that will story to active-duty and reserve soldiers job, as leaders, to tell the positives, to tell your people. Go visit them. Let them support them. If we fail to take care of throughout the state. the success stories. And it’s our job and know you care. If you try to communi¬ their needs now, I know no reason why “This partnership between the our attitude that will make a difference in cate with them by telephone and letter, they would look favorably on us in the recruiting command and us has put The The American Legion. We need to make they will communicate with their future.” American Legion in front of 4,000 sure that we understand the good things members by telephone and letter, because potential active-duty members,” Vap The American Legion is doing. Many of you will have set the example.” Reconnect. Nebraska Legionnaire Roy said. “Within Nebraska and Iowa there’s our members don’t know. You’re going to Vap explained how a partnership with about 150 to 170 recruiters, and we’ve hear a lot today about the good things Membership Through Service. National Army recruiters in his state is benefiting gotten a chance to do a presentation and happening around The American Legion, Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation both his state’s youth and Legion teach Legion history to that entire group. throughout different departments and in Division staff attended the workshop and membership numbers. For 63 years, the We’ve gleaned quite a number of different programs. Listen to the good reiterated the theme of membership Department of Nebraska has sponsored members. In addition, this gives us an ideas. Tell each other what’s going well in through service. Rehbein referenced the County Government Day across the opportunity, when new enlistees are your department. When you hear a department service officers school state, helping high-school juniors going in, to make presentations in front problem, talk about what you’re doing to happening the same week as the mem¬ observe firsthand the workings of their of them and their parents. We’ve got solve that problem.” bership workshop. local governments. With about 5,000 about 2,000 reserve soldiers, and we get a Conatser offered district commanders “Our service officers are meeting and students from more than 60 counties chance to speak to them. Nebraska has advice on visiting local posts. being trained,” Rehbein said. “You’ve participating each year, the cost - which approximately 160,000 eligible veterans. “Think back to your own post and the heard people talk about the purposes of includes lunch for each student - had We have about 47,000 who belong to this last time any level commander outside the organization. That is the purpose of become too high for the department to organization. For every 3.4 eligible your post came to your post,” he said. our organization. That’s why we still handle. A partnership with U.S. Army veterans we get a Legion member. So just “What did they tell you? What did you exist. Think about those young men and recruiters in the state has helped the by the luck of the draw, if you put us in gain from their visit? Were they just there women in Iraq. Think about them going Legion continue to sponsor the program front of 4,000 people, we’re at (more than asking for more membership? I challenge into battle today without the benefit of while adding membership. 1,000) new members.” 8 IDispatch I AUGUST 17,2007

LEGIONNAIRES IN ACTION Thirtysomething Legion leaders fuel banner year in Oklahoma

pleased with recent growth in the state By Jeff Stoffer Oratorical competition, along with Boys American Legion Department of State - which last year involved approxi¬ Oklahoma Commander Michael Taylor mately 700 high-school juniors - and an grew up in rural southeastern Iowa and American Legion Baseball program vividly remembers a certain family whose team count more than doubled expectation. last year, from 28 to 65. “I knew that at the end of my enlist¬ “We are definitely reaching this new ment, I would go down to The American generation, this new era,” says Harding, Legion post and sign up,” the Air Force who introduces hundreds of young veteran says. “That’s what was expected veterans every year to The American of me, of anyone in our family. As long as Legion by assisting them with their we could remember, when we were kids benefits claims, disability ratings, VA at the Fourth of July, during parades, paperwork, employment opportunities Memorial Day, distributing poppies with and other concerns. our grandmother... The Legion was a “We have to keep showing them what part of our lives.” The American Legion can do for them But that was his grandmother’s and for their families,” Kellerman says. American Legion. “That’s how I recruit. I just walk up to Today, the 38-year-old commander them and tell what we do and what we and two other veterans of the Desert can do for them. When they see how it Storm-Somalia era - Department pays off, they want to give something Adjutant David Kellerman and Depart¬ back to the Legion, and they join.” ment Service Officer Chris Harding, both Michael Taylor Chris Harding David Kellerman In that sense, the old-fashioned idea of 36 - are building on familiar traditions Office: Department commander Office: Department service officer Office: Department adjutant generating membership simply by getting in Oklahoma while at the same time Age: 38 Age: 36 Age: 36 out, promoting the organization face to refreshing the organization’s image Military: U.S. Air Force, Military: U.S. Marine Corps, Military: U.S. Marine Corps, face and asking veterans to join is one among younger veterans. weather specialist, Desert Storm, reconnaissance, Desert Storm- infantry, Desert Storm-Somalia, time-proven tradition this generation of The department recently completed a 1991-1993 Somalia, 1989-1993 1990-94 Legion leaders hopes will continue in the 1,000-member increase for the year, Legion affiliation: Post 12, Legion affiliation: Post 12, Legion affiliation: Post 34, decades to come. thanks in a big way to a 750-member Bethany-Warr Acres Bethany-Warr Acres El Reno “We see our growth continuing in the spike among National Guardsmen. next 20 years,” Harding says. “But I do Their approach is not just to sit back think it will be baby steps until this and wait for busy Guardsmen or pre¬ program there. These people are looking who are returning right now. We identify generation of veterans hits retirement retirement veterans to find their way for Legion programs and activities that with each other.” age. Then I think we will see huge growth down to the post home. Kellerman, involve their whole families.” Kellerman says younger veterans are again.” Harding and Taylor actively inject “You have to be able to leapfrog from paying close attention to American “It comes one veteran at a time,” themselves and The American Legion the era of the Saturday night dance at the Legion advocacy and accomplishments at Taylor says. “When I am driving a vehicle into the lives and lifestyles of today’s post to the era of e-mails, iPods and text the statehouse, which fuels membership. with The American Legion emblem on it, servicemembers and younger veterans. messages,” Harding adds. “We are showing them that we can make a lot of times people pull up to me - “Oklahoma is one of the most “We’ve tried to restructure the Legion a difference in terms of veteran benefits, sometimes Vietnam veterans who never deployed Guard states in the war,” says schedule for the working veteran, where working with the legislature,” he says. joined and say they were never asked - Kellerman, a Somalia combat veteran. someone can get off work and make it to The American Legion is actively and they ask me why they should belong. “The National Guard units in the state the post and participate in activities that involved with active-duty installations, And so I hand them one of our bro¬ invite us to all their welcome-home meet their schedules,” Kellerman says. participating in welcome-home activities chures, the ‘Why I Should Belong’ ceremonies, and we go. We give briefings All three connect well with veterans at Fort Sill and Tinker, Altus and Vance brochure, which I carry with me all the to Guard units on our programs. Posts on either side of their own military Air Force bases, including coordination time. And they see what we can do. around the state have active Reconnect stints. “Our ages are right in the middle,” of an annual Easter egg hunt at Altus. That’s where it all starts.” programs. Several posts now meet in Harding says. “I can communicate and The department offers membership dues National Guard armories. The Guard identify with Vietnam, Korea and World discounts to active-duty personnel. unit in Granite runs the Shooting Sports War II veterans, and with new veterans The three Legion leaders are also

AMERICANISM Delaware teen elected Boys Nation president A Delaware high-school student was elected presi¬ Dame University to study public service. “My goal is to dent and an Indiana teen vice president of The Ameri¬ utilize our resources to best reflect the ideas of our can Legion’s 61st Boys Nation at Marymount University generation.” in Virginia in July. Both Wallace and Kingsolver were sworn in by Benjamin Wallace of Hockessin, Del., was elected to American Legion Past National Commander H.F. serve as president. The 17-year-old son of Paul and Lisa “Sparky” Gierke. Wallace, he is a three-sport athlete in high school and Each Boys Nation delegate represents his home state finished second in a national mock trial competition. as a senator. The senators caucus at the beginning of the He plans to study law in college but has yet to choose a session, organize into committees and conduct hear¬ school. “I am honored to be elected and am looking ings on bills, allowing delegates to learn the proper forward to serving this fine group of gentleman at Boys legislative procedures according to the U.S. Senate. Nation,” said Wallace, who was sponsored by R.C. During the weeklong program, participants visited DuPont Post 18 in Claymont, Del. “Serving here in a with several prominent politicians, including President representative capacity provides the unique opportu¬ George W. Bush and U.S. senators. nity to express the wants and needs of my generation.” They also participated in a wreath-laying at the Justin Kingsolver of Fishers, Ind., was elected Boys Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cem¬ Nation vice president. The son of Jim and Patricia etery, visited the U.S. Supreme Court and U.S. State Kingsolver, he was sponsored by Lowell Beaver Post 470 Department, and attended an event at Greenbelt, Md., in Fishers. Post 136, where American Legion National Command¬ Benjamin Wallace of Hockessin, Del., was elected president of the 61st Boys “It’s incredible to see what potential we have in this er Paul A. Morin was the guest speaker. Nation at Marymount University in Virginia on July 24. Gleason "Dub" Allen room,” said Kingsolver, who plans to attend Notre + + +

AUGUST 17,20071 Dispatch 19

MEMBERSHIP

THE AMERICAN LEGION FAMILY Legion family leaders © # @ to get dunked in Reno MEMBERSHIP CHALLENGE During the 2006 Fall Meetings in Indianapolis, the leadership of The American Legion family agreed to participate in a series of membership challenges. Details of the challenges are in the certificates to the left. Only the Sons of The American Legion met the 100-percent challenge, so National Commander I, National Commander Paul Morin, do accept the membership challenge put before me. 1 accept the challenge of obtaining 100%, minus DMS totals, of The American Legion Membership by July 31,2007. Paul A. Morin and Auxiliary National President JoAnn Cronin will have their shifts in a dunk If I fail to obtain this goal by the established deadline, I graciously and respectfully submit myself to spend a little quality time "perched” tank during the 87th National Convention in on a bench above a huge container filled with cool refreshing water at the 2007 National Convention in Reno, Nevada. Reno, Nev. SAL National Commander Earl 1 promise not to come alone and will have my National Adjutant and Membership Committee Chainnan by my side to share in this Ruttkofsky also has agreed to participate. auspicious occasion. The cost to throw at the dunking booth is $2 Also, if my National Vice-Commanders fail to obtain this same goal within their regions, based on the same criteria, per ball or three balls for $5. All funds raised at They, too, will be given the opportunity to excel - possibly downward into the abyss that awaits them. the booth will be divided between the American Attest: Legacy Scholarship Fund, National Emergency Fund, National Veterans Creative Arts Festival Paul Morin Robert Spanogle Signed and attested this day National Commander National Adjutant October 16 2006 and The American Legion Endowment Fund. During the Annual Fall Meeting The schedule for the dunking booth is: - Held in Indianapolis, Indiana ■ Aug. 24,1 p.m. - 2 p.m. - Cronin, Auxiliary Membership Committee Chairman National Secretary Pamela Gilley, Auxiliary National Membership Director Sharon Conatser National Vice-Commanders ■ Aug. 24, 2 p.m. - 3 p.m. - American Legion National Membership 8c Post Activities Com¬ THE AMERICAN LEGION FAMILY mittee Chairman Linda Perham, National Membership Director Billy Johnson ® # $ ■ Aug. 25, 11 a.m. - 1:15 p.m. - American Legion MEMBERSHIP CHALLENGE National Vice Commanders Lloyd H. Woods, Byron W. White, Robert C. Lahiere, Elgin L. Wahlborg, Allan Setterberg ■ Aug. 25, 2:30 p.m. - 3 p.m. - Commander Morin, National Adjutant Robert W. Spanogle ■ Aug. 25, 3 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. - Ruttkofsky, SAL 1, National President JoAnn Cronin, do accept the membership challenge put before me. National Adjutant Brian O’Hearne, SAL 1 accept the challenge of obtaining 100%, minus DMS totals, of The American Legion Auxiliary Membership by July 31,2007. National Membership Committee Chairman If I fail to obtain this goal by the established deadline, I graciously and respectfully submit myself to spend a little quality time “perched” Thomas W. Wigmore. on a bench above a huge container filled with cool refreshing water at the 2007 National Convention in Reno, Nevada. The dunking booth will be next to Emblem Sales in the Exhibit Hall. 1 promise not to come alone and will have my National Vice-President, National Secretary and Membership Committee Chairman by my side to share in this auspicious occasion. ECONOMICS Also, if my Divisional Vice-Presidents fail to obtain this same goal within their regions, based on the same criteria, They, too, will be given the opportunity to excel - possibly downward into the abyss that awaits them. Small business workshop Attest: set for national convention

JoAnn Cronin Pamela Gilley Signed and attested this day National President National Secretary October 16 2006 The American Legion’s Economics Division _ During the Annual Fall Meeting will conduct a small-business workshop during Jan Pulvermacher-Ryan - Held in Indianapolis, Indiana National Vice President the 89th National Convention in Reno, Nev. The workshop will run from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Membership Committee Chairman National Divisional Vice Presidents Aug. 27-28 in Room A12 of the Reno-Sparks Convention Center. The first session will target younger businesses that have never contracted with their states or the THE AMERICAN LEGION FAMILY federal government, or have limited contract ® ® 0 experience. The second day will focus on busi¬ MEMBERSHIP CHALLENGE nesses with experience contracting with their states or the federal government and are looking to expand. For more information about the workshop, go to www.nevbrc.com/legion_conference_ training_schedule_reno.pdf. To register online, go to guest.cvent.com/ I, National Commander Earl Ruttkofsky, do accept the membership challenge put before me. events/default.aspx. Use event code I accept the challenge of obtaining 100% of The Sons of The American Legion Membership by July 31,2007. 6UN39M3QVWF. If I fail to obtain this goal by the established deadline, 1 graciously and respectfully submit myself to spend a little quality time “perched” Also, The American Legion, the U.S. Depart¬ on a bench above a huge container filled with cool refreshing water at the 2007 National Convention in Reno, Nevada. ment of Labor and RecruitMilitary, LLC, will I promise not to come alone and will have my National Adjutant and Membership Committee Chairman by my side conduct a career fair in Reno during the conven¬ to share in this auspicious occasion. tion. The fair is scheduled for 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 28 in rooms Al, A2, A5 and A6 of the Reno- Also, if my National Vice-Commanders fail to obtain this same goal within their regions, based on the same criteria, They, too, will be given the opportunity to excel - possibly downward into the abyss that.awaits them. Sparks Convention Center. Attest: The free event is open to U.S. veterans, men

Earl Ruttkofsky Brian O’Hearne and women transitioning from active duty, SAL. National Commander SAL National Adjutant Signed and attested this day members of the National Guard and reserves, and October 15, 2006 military spouses. Attendees should bring at least a During the Annual Fall Meeting dozen copies of their resumes. SAL Membership Committee Chairman Held in Indianapolis, Indiana To register as a job seeker, go online to SAL National Vice Commanders www.recruitmilitary.com.

Jt + 101 Dispatch I AUGUST 17,2007

PATELINE: CAPITOL HILL House passes fiscal 2008 defense spending bill of $460 billion

■ $558 million for chemical and identify an American business the weapons systems Congress provide innovative transporta¬ By Jimmie Foster biological defense programs; that could operate successfully authorizes in direct prosecution tion options to veterans in rural On Aug. 5, the House of and, and remain viable if, in 12 of 13 of the nation’s defense.” areas. The measure would Representatives passed H.R. ■ $398 million for DoD’s consecutive years, it had no Legislation addressing authorize a total of $3 million 3222, the fiscal 2008 Defense Former Soviet Union Threat advance confidence about the assured or mandatory funding per year from 2008 through appropriation bill. The final vote Reduction account. level of its projected revenues or for VA health-care programs - 2012 for these grants. for passage was 395-13. The House also added the resources it needed to bring H.R. 2514, the “Assured H.R. 2874 would also shorten The measure would provide funding to various programs a product or service to market, Funding for Veterans Health from 60 days to 30 days the time $459.6 billion for DoD pro¬ necessary to meet the immedi¬ no ability to plan beyond the Care Act” - is currently pending that homeless veterans must be grams for the upcoming ate needs of U.S. immediate needs of the institu¬ in the House. The measure was enrolled in VA’s medical-care fiscal year - $39.7 forces fighting the tion day to day, and no freedom introduced by Rep. Phil Hare, program before they are eligible billion more than was war on terrorism, to operate on the basis of D-Ill., and currently has 77 for dental care. enacted for the current including: known or expected need in the cosponsors. The partnership A second measure approved year but $3.5 billion less ■ $23 billion for the future.” This has been the recommended that “the by a voice vote was H.R. 2623, a than requested by the Defense Health situation with VA. (Veterans Affairs) Committee, bill that would waive a co¬ president. The measure Program; Maintaining a stable and in your fiscal year 2009 Views payment requirement for does not include ■ $7.6 billion in viable health-care system to and Estimates to the Budget veterans receiving hospice care funding for military increased funds to meet the medical needs of the Committee, that you inform at home or at acute or palliative operations in Iraq and ensure proper nation’s newest veterans is also a them of your intention to report care facilities, rather than from Afghanistan, which will training for U.S. concern: “The wars in Iraq and legislation creating a mandatory a VA health-care facility. be considered a separate troops before Afghanistan are producing a and guaranteed funding system The final bill - H.R. 1315, bill after Congress Chairman, National deployment; new generation of wounded, for VA health care in 2009, and the Veterans Benefits Improve¬ returns from its summer Legislative Commission ■ $6 billion to cover sick and disabled veterans, and that you recommend that they ment Act of 2007, also passed by recess. the equipment costs some severe types at a polytrau¬ reserve sufficient funds to make a voice vote - would make Some of the major accounts of Army and Marine Corps ma level never seen before in that seminal change.” adaptive housing assistance funded by the House bill personnel increases; and, warfare ... The goal of the available to disabled U.S. include: ■ $3.2 billion for continued partnership is to see a long-term House approves veterans bills servicemembers temporarily ■ $8.5 billion for ballistic research and development of solution formed for funding VA On July 30, the House passed staying in a house owned by a missile defense the Army’s Future Combat health care to guarantee these three measures that seek to fill family member. ■ $6.6 billion for continued System. veterans will have a dependable gaps in veterans benefits The legislation would extend research and development and The Senate Appropriations system for the foreseeable programs. These bills now go to the benefit to servicemembers procurement of 12 F-35s, the Committee will take up DoD future, not simply next year.” the Senate for further action. before their discharge, chang¬ Joint Strike Fighter funding after the August recess. A recent Harvard University By a voice vote, the House ing current law that allows ■ $3.1 billion for 20 F-22 fighter Fiscal 2008 begins report predicts that federal approved H.R. 2874, the adaptive housing assistance planes Oct. 1, 2007. outlays for veterans of the Iraq Veterans Health Care Improve¬ only after discharge. Eligible ■ $3.09 billion for the purchase and Afghanistan wars will total ment Act of 2007. One of its veterans could receive up to of one Virginia-class Senate VA panel conducts between $350 million and provisions would authorize a $14,000 to make modification submarine mandatory funding hearing $700 million during their new grant program for thera¬ to their families’ homes. The ■ $2.8 billion for construction On July 25, the Senate lifetimes after military service. peutic readjustment counseling measure also includes provi¬ and advanced procurement of Veterans Affairs Committee This funding is in addition to for veterans of wars and sions that would create a two DD-1000 next-generation conducted a hearing on the what the nation already spends conflicts after the 1991 Persian scholarship program for destroyers funding process for the Depart¬ on previous generations of Gulf War. students pursuing careers in ■ $1.4 billion for the Army’s ment of Veterans Affairs. The veterans. It would also authorize finan¬ rehabilitation of the blind. program to destroy chemical Partnership for Veterans Health “We believe,” the partner¬ cial assistance for low-income agents and munitions; Care Budget Reform testified on ship’s representative told the veterans’ families living in ■ $946 million for DoD coun¬ behalf of The American Legion Senate committee, “funding VA permanent housing. ter-drug activities and to fight and its other members, chal¬ health care is a cost of defense Another provision would narco-terrorism; lenging the committee “to and war no less important than authorize a grants program to

TROOP SUPPORT Operation Landstuhl begins phone card purchases

National Commander Paul A. Morin troops at Landstuhl by the close of this has authorized the immediate purchase month’s 89th National Convention of National Commander of $25,000 worth of telephone calling The American Legion in Reno, Nev., Paul A. Morin has au¬ cards to be given to U.S. troops recover¬ thorized the purchase scheduled for Aug. 24-30. ing at Landstuhl Regional Medical of $25,000 worth of “Operation Landstuhl is only one Center in Germany. telephone calling cards month old, and we are already on our The gift of phone cards is part of for U.S. troops receiving way to achieving our goal,” Morin said. Operation Landstuhl, an new American medical care at Land¬ “The generosity of The American Legion V77VUC Legion initiative prompted by Morin’s stuhl Regional Medical has been overwhelming. I am confident recent visit to the center. Center in Germany. that we will meet our goal by the close “The staff at Landstuhl does an The cards are part of AT&T PHONE CARD of our 89th National Convention on outstanding job, but the patients don’t The American Legion's Aug. 30.” 120 Minutes of U.S. state-state calling. Operation Landstuhl. have all of the personal comfort items International rates are higher. In-state rates may be higher. American Legion departments will be that they need,” Morin said. able to present their checks on the “Many of the troops could use some convention floor in Reno. In the exhibit civilian clothes; others might want hall, a donation booth will be available DVDs, CDs or magazines. We owe it to fighting the war on terrorism in Iraq and President JoAnn Cronin and Sons of for individuals to contribute. them. These phone cards are just the Afghanistan. The American Legion Commander Earl Credit-card donations are accepted start.” During peak fighting periods, the Ruttkofsky have together set a goal for online at www.legion.org, and checks Landstuhl Regional Medical Center is hospital can admit more than 900 new the entire American Legion family to can be mailed to Operation Landstuhl, a stopping point on the journey home for patients per month. raise $50,000 for comfort items to be c/o The American Legion, P.O. Box many wounded U.S. servicemembers Morin, American Legion Auxiliary purchased and sent to hospitalized U.S. 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206-1055. AUGUST 17,20071 Dispatch 111

VETERANS UPDATE News from and about the Department of Veterans Affairs A prosthetic ankle-foot is now available to veterans range of health care, disability, home loan, vocational California, Utah and Connecticut for special partner¬ who have had lower-leg amputations, one that matches and educational benefits offered by VA. ships with local VA health-care facilities to be part of a their natural ease of motion. Through VA-funded ■ VA already provides assistance with briefings con¬ new VA Nursing Academy. research, the Center for Restorative and Regenerative ducted by the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) The first four nursing schools selected to participate Medicine - a partnership between the Providence VA and Army Career Alumni Program (ACAP). in the program are the University of Florida in Gaines¬ Medical Center in Rhode Island, Brown University and ■ VA will help file claims for benefits and provide ville, San Diego State University, the University of Utah Massachusetts Institute of Technology - developed the medical examinations to record any disabilities for in Salt Lake City, and Fairfield University in Connecti¬ new prosthesis. those soldiers within six months of separation. For cut. The four VA-nursing partnerships were selected Researchers say the new ankle-foot prosthetic is the those eligible for rehabilitation assistance, VA from among 42 applications. first in a new family of artificial limbs. It will replicate counselors can help plan a program of education and Additional VA-nursing school partnerships will be natural motion by propelling people forward using training that will help separating soldiers find selected in 2008 and 2009, for a total of 12 partnerships tendon-like springs powered by an electric motor. productive employment after discharge. in the five-year pilot program. VA expects to spend more than $1.2 billion this year The Benefits Delivery Office is open from 8 a.m. to The American Association of Colleges of Nursing on prosthetics and sensory aids, including glasses and 4 p.m. weekdays. For more information on VA benefits, reports that more than 42,000 qualified applicants were hearing aids. call (800) 827-1000 or visit www.va.gov online. turned away from nursing schools in 2006 because of insufficient numbers of faculty, clinical sites, classroom VA office opens at Fort Bragg Tampa Fisher House opens space and clinical mentors. VA currently provides VA and the U.S. Army base at Fort Bragg, N.C., have Families of injured U.S. military members recuperat¬ clinical education for approximately 100,000 health pro¬ opened a newly expanded facility at the post’s Soldier ing at the James A. Haley Veterans Hospital in Tampa fessional trainees annually, including students from Support Center to provide easier access to VA benefits now have the benefit of a Fisher House, which provides more than 600 schools of nursing. for soldiers stationed at Fort Bragg, particularly them free lodging as they participate in the care and Get more information about the pilot program from programs for those transitioning to civilian life. recovery of their loved ones. VA’s Office of Academic Affiliations online at www. In addition to the Fort Bragg location, VA operates This is the 38th home built by the Fisher House va.gov/oaa. benefits offices at Camp Lejeune Marine Corps Base and Foundation and the ninth operated by VA. With 16,000 New River Marine Corps Air Station in North Carolina, square feet, the Tampa Fisher House is among the New Guam clinic planned with services provided at Cherry Point Marine Corps largest of these comfort homes and can accommodate VA has announced plans to construct a 6,000- Air Station and Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. VA up to 21 families. square-foot, $5.4 million clinic alongside the island’s operates 140 offices on military installations as part of Many families travel long distances to Tampa’s naval hospital. Patients will not have to pass through its Benefits Delivery at Discharge program. Polytrauma Center - one of four unique VA polytrauma Navy security to get to the facility, which will have its At the Fort Bragg facility: facilities in the United States where the most severely own parking area. The new clinic is scheduled to open ■ VA benefits counselors will coordinate with the injured and disabled veterans are treated - to be close to in summer 2009. Warrior Transition Battalion at Womack Medical their loved ones. The new outpatient clinic replaces the existing 2,700 Center and the VA medical center in Fayetteville to square-foot VA clinic at the naval hospital. VA will still ensure that the most severely injured soldiers con¬ Nursing partnership formed partner with the naval facility for emergency and after- tinue to receive the highest level of medical care as VA is launching a new initiative that partners its hours health care, acute inpatient care and some they leave active duty. .. - health-care system with four of the nation’s finest specialty services. ■ VA staff will explain to separating soldiers the full nursing schools. VA selected nursing schools in Florida, About 9,000 U.S. veterans live on Guam.

TAPS John M. Carey Mr. Carey is survived by his wife, Millie, and one chairman from 1957 to 1962 and 1971 to 1978. positions, including department commander from son and two daughters. Condolences can be sent to He was a member of the National Legislative 1969 to 1970. Plant City, Fla. them at 182 Old Mill Drive, Plant City, FL 33565-8794. Council from 1993 to 1994, the National Finance John M. Carey of Post 413 (Department of Memorial contributions can be sent to The American Commission Liaison Committee from 1991 to 1993, Ray S. Schulz Michigan) passed away Aug. 4 at age 82. He was a Legion Legacy Scholarship Fund, P.0. Box 1055, the National Membership & Post Activities Great Bend, Kan. World War II Army veteran. Indianapolis, IN 46207. Committee from 1955 to 1956, and the National Ray S. Schulz of Post 180 (Department of Kansas) Mr. Carey served as national commander from 1978 Emblem Committee from 1962 to 1965,1968 to 1991 passed away July 25 at age 94. He was a World War II to 1979. He also served in several department Thomas G. Chilton and 1993 to 2004. Navy veteran. positions, including department commander from Gilbert, Ariz. Mr. Johnston is survived by his wife, Wilma, and Mr. Schulz served in several department 1958 to 1959. He also served as National Executive one son and two daughters. Memorial contributions positions, including department commander from Committeeman from 1965 to 1967, Alternate National Thomas G. Chilton of Post 17 (Department of can be made to American Legion Post 100,211 1950 to 1951. He also served on the National Executive Committeeman from 1963 to 1965, National Arizona) passed away at age 93. He was a World Legion Road, Washington, IL 61571-2053. Distinguished Guests Committee from 1966 to 1976, Americanism Council vice chairman from 1962 to War II Army Air Force veteran. the National Housing Committee from 1946 to 1949, 1964, chairman of the National Advisory Committee to Mr. Chilton served in several department Frederick A. Krick the National Law & Order Committee from 1967 to the National Commander from 1979 to 1980, vice positions, including department commander from Millstadt, III. 1968 and the National Resolutions Assignments chairman of the National Advisory Committee to the 1955 to 1956. He also was a member of the National Committee from 1951 to 1954. National Commander from 1980 to 1981, National Employment Committee from 1970 to 1978, the Frederick A. Krick of Post 137 (Department of He is survived by two daughters. Memorial Foreign Relations Council vice chairman from 1976 to National Foreign Relations Council from 1965 to Illinois) passed away April 12 at age 82. He was a contributions can be sent to the Great Bend City Tree 1977, National Overseas Graves Decoration Trust vice 1967, the National Education and Scholarship World War II Navy veteran. Board, P.0. Box 215, Great Bend, KS 67530. chairman from 1979 to 1980, National Overseas Graves Committee Advisory Committee from 1959 to 1961, Mr. Krick served in several department positions Decoration Trust chairman from 1978 to 1979, the the National Inter-American Committee from 1961 and also served on the National Membership & Post Charles Keith Sink National Internal Affairs Commission national to 1965, and the National Child Welfare Commission Activities Committee from 1963 to 1964, the commander's representative from 1964 to 1965 and Executive Session from 1966 to 1969. National Americanism Commission from 1983 to Raleigh, N.C. National Internal Affairs Commission chairman from 1985 and the National Americanism Council from Charles Keith Sink of Post 1 (Department of North 1974 to 1976. Frankie Johnston 1986 to 2003. Carolina) passed away June 15 at age 79. He was a He was a member of the National Advisory Washington, III. Mr. Krick is survived by two sons. Memorial Korean War and Vietnam War Army veteran. Committee to the National Commander from 1977 to Frankie Johnston of Post 100 (Department of contributions can be made to Trinity Lutheran Mr. Sink served in several department positions, 1978, the National Education & Scholarships Illinois) passed away July 29 at age 82. He was a Church, 503 E. Washington St., Millstadt, IL 62260, including department adjutant from 1980 to 1986, Committee from 1960 to 1961, the National Overseas World War II Army Medical Corps veteran. or the Millstadt Union Fire Company. 1987 to 1989 and 1994 to 1995. He also served as Grave Decoration Trust from 1980 to 1981, the National Mr. Johnston served in several department National Executive Committeeman from 1991 to 1993. Internal Affairs Commission Liaison Committee from positions and as National Executive Committeeman Felix E. Restad He is survived by his wife, Maxine, and one son. 1965 to 1967, the National Public Relations Commission from 1991 to 1993, Alternate National Executive Billings, Mont. Memorial contributions can be sent to the Margaret from 1968 to 1974, and the National Legislative Council Committeeman from 1989 to 1991, National Emblem Felix E. Restad of Post 4 (Department of Montana) Sink Scholarship Fund, First Reformed Church, 104 E. from 1975 to 1978 and 1983 to 1984. He was an ex- Committee chairman from 1981 to 1991, National passed away July 30 at age 91. He was a World War II Center St., Lexington, NC 27292, or to any American officio member of the National Finance Commission Foreign Relations Council vice chairman from 1967 to Army veteran. Legion program or fund. from 1978 to 1979. 1968, and National Emblem Committee vice Mr. Restad served in several department 12 IDispatch I AUGUST 17,2007

TROOP SUPPORT FORT BEN PX, COMMISSARY OPEN

1 ■iiP V si

Retired Brig. Gen. Ronald Brooks, executive director of The American Legion Marketing Services Group, cuts the ribbon at the grand opening of the $12 million Fort Benjamin By James V. Carroll Harrison commissary and PX complex. Lawrence, Ind., Mayor Deborah Cantwell, Army Adjutant Brig. Gen. Ruben Jones and other dignitaries attended the ceremony, imuumn Sixteen years after the Army shut down Fort Benjamin Harrison on the He was an active player in efforts to keep northeast side of Indianapolis, the famed the old commissary open, and a tireless military facility is once again making and passionate advocate of building a history. In June, a $12 million state-of- new commissary and PX. the-art commissary and PX complex “A commissary and PX are some of opened for business to serve thousands the most important benefits to our of military men and women, retired servicemembers,” Brooks said. “They list veterans and their families. The Fort it second to medical care. There are Harrison commissary and PX is the first approximately 40,000 eligible beneficia¬ commissary built at a reserve center, the ries in central Indiana. Thousands of first built at a closed military facility, and them have already served in Iraq and the first to be substantially financed by Afghanistan, and thousands more are on civilian agencies. their way to the battlefield. This commis¬ The City of Lawrence, the Fort sary and PX serve to show the communi¬ Harrison Reuse Authority and the ty’s support and commitment to these federal government worked together to courageous military men and women bring the 10-year project to fruition. and their families.” Property taxes collected by the Reuse After learning that Fort Harrison Authority largely financed the commis¬ would close, Brooks said his main goal A World War II veteran shops for bargains in the produce section of the Fort Harrison commissary. He is one of 40,000 central Indiana active-duty and retired servicemembers eligible to shop there. <«tr«i sary and PX. In turn, the Fort Harrison was to keep the old commissary open for Reuse Authority gets the land occupied military personnel and veterans. DoD the project. Their efforts resulted in $2 opening ceremonies. “He is the heart and by the old commissary. The city expects rebuffed him more than once. million toward it. soul of this commissary and PX. He to eventually develop Lawrence Village, a “When the fort closes, the commis¬ “This eventually ended up being an forged bonds across different lines - multimillion-dollar retail, residential sary and PX will close,” Brooks repeat¬ old-fashioned swap: I’ll give you a new different political lines. and office complex. edly heard from DoD officials. “We building for your old buildings and land. I was impressed when Ron was in “It’s a win-win-win deal,” said retired stopped asking for awhile. But when And the Army said, ‘Deal.’” Bingaman uniform. I’m impressed now that he is Army Brig. Gen. Ronald Brooks, execu¬ administrations changed in Washington, explained. “To be able to provide for our out of uniform. I’m impressed with his tive director of The American Legion we again sought to keep the commissary troops and retirees, and at the same time dedication, his love of country, his Marketing Services Group, which has and PX operating - and DoD changed its continue to inspire the redevelopment of dignity and respect.” offices on the grounds of the former fort. mind.” Fort Harrison, is a great story for all of Brooks said the credit belongs to “The military gets a new commissary. Emboldened by their success, Brooks us.” many. “I am no more responsible for The Fort Harrison Reuse Authority gets and other officials started thinking about Tremendous teamwork and the making it happen than are dozens of the old commissary and the land that constructing a new commissary and PX. commitment of dozens of people brought other committed individuals, past and goes with it. And most importantly, They encountered many roadblocks; the commissary and PX project to present. It took years of tireless work Indiana’s military men and women can some appeared to kill their plan altogeth¬ completion. But Bingaman, Cantwell, among local, state and national partners. shop at a modern grocery store and PX er. In 2004, Lawrence Mayor Deborah military leadership, and local, state and No single person could have accom¬ and save up to 40 percent. What better Cantwell and newly appointed Fort national officials agree it is Brooks who plished this. I’m honored to have been a way to support our troops?” Harrison Reuse Authority Executive never lost sight of the goal. part of it, but it’s not about who got it Brooks was Fort Harrison’s com¬ Director Ehren Bingaman entered the “When people said it couldn’t be done, done. It’s about doing the right thing for mander when the base was deactivated in fray. Cantwell, Bingaman and other local Ron remained steadfast in his belief that our military members, retired veterans, 1991 under the Department of Defense’s officials traveled to Washington a it could be done,” National Adjutant and their families.” Base Realignment and Closure program. number of times to drum up support for Robert W. Spanogle said during grand¬