As a Legionnaire, getting home means more to you than scoring runs. Rather, it's arriving home safely. To help protect your loved ones, LeSabre offers an impressive list of safety features. Visit www.lesabre.buick.com or call 1-800-4A-BUICK. LeSabre "^Buick^Ji © 1 9 9 8 G M Corp. All r i s h t s r Mind LcSabrc is a registered trademark ot GM Corp. Buckl< Vol 145, No 6 The Magazine for a Strong America December 1998 P"" ARTICLES TIME RUNS 0UT0NSJR40

Foes use procedural point to prevent a vote on flag protection. i

CHANGE OF HABiT By Julie A. Rtioad

Adult-onset diabetes is dangerous, but it can be controlled. 12

DAY OF INFAMY Recalling Pearl Harbor. il

THE DOCTRINAIRE CONSERVATIVE mtemew

Gerald B. Solomon reflects on a career in a changing House of Representatives. II

CHRISTMAS AT WAR

Readers share memories and pictures of how they made do in apocalyptic times. Ih

RESURRECTING EUROPE By Michael Kanner The United States needs a new l\^arshall Plan. a

LEGION VIEW HITS CONGRESS

National Commander "Butch" Miller carries the veterans' perspective to Capitol Hill I^iPARTMENTS

1 ISSUES Should U.S. Troops Begin Withdrawing From Bosnia?

VETVOICE 1 VETERANS UPDATE f VETS i

COMIVIANDER'S MESSAGE 1 LEGION NEWS II PARTING SHOTS il

WASHINGTON WATCH 1

COVER Christmas at l/l/ar/Jim Sharpe

The American Legion Magazine, a leader among national general-interest publications, is published monthly by The American Legion for its 2.7 million members. These wartime veterans, worl

DECEMBER 1998 • THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE • j FOR GOD AND COUNTRY 700 N. Pennsylvania St. P.O. Box 1055 Inrjianapolis, IN 46206 317-630-1200 National Commander Harold L. "Butch" Miller

Publisher/E(ditor-in-Chief Dick McNally

Assistant Editors HERE'S A DEAL Layne Cameron David Penticuff THAT WILL APPEAL TO YOUR STRONG General Administration Patricia Marschand SENSE 0 F VALUES. Robyn Black

Production Manager Jon Reynolds

Production Assistant Mary Magee

Advertising Assistants Cathy Frakes Susan M. Bader The American Legion Magazine P.O. Box 7068 Indianapolis, IN 46207 Publisher's Representatives Fox Associates, Inc. Ctiicago: 312-644-3888 New York: 212-725-2106 Save Los Angeles: 310-841-0280 Detroit: 248-543-0068 Atlanta: 404-252-0968 San Francisco: 415-989-5804 20% The American Legion Magazine Commission Milford A. Forrester, Chiairman, Greenville, SO; Dennis J. Henkemeyer, Vice Chairman, Sauk Rapids, MN; James P. On your next stay Comiskey, National Commander's Representative, Pitts- burgh, PA; Lawrence VanKuran, Encino, CA; Theodore R. at Rodeway Inn. Hartmann, Smithton, IL; J. Leslie Brown, Jr., Louisville, KY; Joseph F. Chase, Hatboro, PA; Donald R. Conn, South er expires 12/31/98 and may Bend, IN; James W. Conway, Charleston, MA; Hoy You can save big combination with any other di deal. To reserve Haught, Huntsville, AR; James H. Hall, Hopewell, NJ; Hal- Subiect to availability. bert G. Horton, Topeka, KS; Bettylou Evans, Laurel, DE; at Rodeway Inn your room, call Eugene J. Kelley, Savannah, GA; Russell H. Laird, DesMoines, lA; J. Fred Mitchell. Brewton, AL; J.O. Berth- — 20% in fact when you use 1-800-228-2000 and just ask elot, Gonzales, LA; Everett G. Shepard III, Woodstock, CT; Jerrold W. Wilson, Sr., Harnson, OH; Tom C. Smith, Okla- this coupon. And with 200 for LADRTE #00057633 when homa City, OK; Henry E. Lamb Sr., Lacey, WA; Robert E. Vass Sr., Huntington, WV; James J. Charleston, Arlington locations nationwide, you know making your reservation. Or call Hgts.. IL and Casimir F. Sojka, New York, NY, consultants. Copyright 1998 by The American Legion will a travel agent. there be Rodeway Inn your The American Legion (ISSN 0886-1234) is published monthly by The American Legion, 5561 W. 74th Street, most anywhere you're going. Indianapolis, IN 46268. Periodicals postage paid at Indiana- polis, IN 46204 and additional mailing offices. So stay at Rodeway. There's Rodeway Annual non-member and gift subscriptions, $15 ($21, for- eign); Post-sponsored and widows' subscriptions, $6; single something very American INN copy, $3 50. POSTIVIASTER: Send address changes to The American Legion, Input Services, P.O. Box 1954, Indianapo-

lis, IN 46206. Internet add ress: http://www.legion.org. a vw.rodeway.com about finding such good Change of Address: Notify The American Legion, Input Services, P.O. Box 1954, Indianapolis. IN 46206. (317) 328-4640, Attach old address label, provide old and new addresses and current membership card number. Canada Post fnternational Publications Mall (Canadian Distribution) Sales Agreement No. 546321. Re-entered second-class mail matter at Manila Central Post office dated Dec. 22, 1991.

Printed in USA

Save your money. Stay at Rodeway.' Member Audit Bureau of Circulations

• THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE • 1998 2 DECEMBER

—

Madden Dam, Gatun Lake and its Chagres watershed areas? Will the Double Standard canal join the Panama Railroad as a YOUR article concerning the honor once-magnificent transportation facili- code of the Air Force Academy ty that can no longer be used? was very timely. For committing Frank B. Turherville Jr. one lie in violation of the code, Cadet Milton, N.C. Houk was dismissed from the acade- my. Then there is the commander-in- chief, who lied under oath and lied Stop the Insanity numerous times in a deposition before READ with deep concern "The Last a federal grand jury. It's time to I Ditch In American Giveaways" restore dignity to the office of the

(October). I do not feel the American presidency. people should tolerate this transaction. Donald J. Roseth Instead, we should impose demands to Thousand Oaks, Calif.

put a stop to it. We spent $400 million to build the "Big Ditch." Thousands of lives were lost to yellow fever and Honor is Timeless accidents, and now we're going to give A graduate of an Army service Canal Challenge it away to someone whose interests are Asschool, I find it's reassuring to HAVING grown up in the Canal in conflict with ours? know that the honor system is still Zone, I challenge Canal Commis- Come on, Washington, quit selling alive and well, that honor and integrity sion Secretary John Mills' opti- us down the canal. Americans have are still held in high regard in the

mistic view (Interview, October). The paid dearly for this property, and it armed forces. As a veteran of World canal is a major accident waiting to should remain in American hands. War II, I still live by these inherent

happen due to many of the original Richard E. Wilkinson fundamental principles I learned at Ft. safety provisions being abandoned. Kendallville, Ind. Benning. One such example is the SIP-7 Gerald L. Sampson one of the flood gates which is now Sheboygan, Wis inoperable. Another example is the Money Sqoandering protective guard chains, used to pro- READ with disbelief Andrea tect the gates from ship collisions, I Houk's article in the October issue. Supporting the Flag which were removed in the '60s. A Assuming that the only blot on her AM proud of what The American limited gate failure did happen which record was a "litde white lie," then it I Legion has done to render support resulted in flooding at the Gatun is shocking to me that the Air Force for the constitutional amendment, Locks, closing the canal for two would so cavalierly throw away an SJR 40. I just wanted you to know weeks. A complete gate failure would investment in her education that prob- that I have also done my part. take months to repair. ably exceeded $100,000. I wrote a letter to the Long Beach,

Will Panama stop the land clearing Richard I. Mulvey Calif., Press-Telegram. I'm passing it

and resulting soil erosion, silting the Ithaca, N.Y. on to you to show you what it cut out. 'GIMME FIVE' CHALLENGES BLUECAPS

OFFERING friends or co-workers celebratory "high fives" bership muscle while helping yourself to some great lit- is a practice that's gravitated from the sports world to gen- tle prizes," said Commander Miller. "And the great thing eral usage. To celebrate initiative in membership recruiting. is, this is open to any Legionnaires who want to take the National Commander "Butch" Miller recently announced time to improve their Posts by reaching out to fellow his "Gimme Five!" competition, a new member award pro- veterans in their community." gram available to every bluecap Legionnaire. Under the contest rules, both the Post commander and

How's it work? Recruit five new members for your Post Post adjutant must verify the recruiters' new members, between Veterans Day and April 14, 1999—The American sign off on them and then mail the cards directly to Legion Birthday Target Date, 95 percent—and take your pick National Headquarters for processing. Staff have distrib- of three great prizes. Recruiters can earn a unique, "Gimme uted recruitment forms to be filled out with the Five!" necktie; a red American Legion computer mouse pad; recruiter's name. Post, Department and address, plus the or a quality Garland pen with this inscription: National Com- names of the five members recruited and their temporary mander's "Gimme Five! Award, '98-99." Each recruiter can membership numbers. For more information or forms, earn a maximum of four awards, officials say. contact officials at your Post, Department or National

"This is a great opportunity to boost your Post's mem- Headquarters.

i| • THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 1998 6

FOR YOUR VETERAN'S DISCOUNT, JUST DIAL IBM^

«c>M' Aptiva® E2U They excluded, "It has the support of AMD-K6"' - 2/333' Processor with ATI Rage" Pro 2X Turbo AGP The American Legion and the Benev- 30Nowr Technology 3D Graphics olent and Protective Order of the 48MB SyncDRAM • 4MB SyncGraphics Video Memory 6GB' Hard Drive Windows' 98, Lotus' I this really Elks." think would have 32X-14X CD-ROM Drive' SmarlSuite ' including Lotus

15" (13.8" viewable size) Color WordPro,1-2-3: Freelance" added to it. I have also mailed letters Monitor Graphics and more' 'S to senators like John Glenn, who does 56K Data/Fax Mortem Netscape" Navigator" jft:' not support SJR 40. (v.90 Compatible)' & Microsor Internet 512KB L2 Pipeline Burst Cache Explorer, Trial Subscriptions

Carroll Case Crystal Clear" 3D Sound to online Services' Carson, Calif.

PC and Monitor for Under $1 ,000! From IBM. Assist All Veterans Need a better way to surf ttie Internet? And stay in touch w/ith family and friends around tfie mtW IBM fias just made

it easier. IBM brings you tfie Aptiva E2U, the idea! combination of performance and affordabilify. It's only $989' v^ifh your served as a veterans' HAVING discount, including a 15"monilor (13.8"viewable size). If delivers outstanding multimedia performance at an excellent price. [having in] advocate and worked Other models are available too, including ThinkPad"^' notebook computers, Pius, you get the outstanding quality, reliability

the Disabled Veterans Outreach and suppoft you've come to expect from IBM, a name you can frust. Program the past 10 years, I'm very To order your Aptiva directly from IBM using your Veteran's discount, dial supportive of employment services for veterans. Hire Quality will no 1 800 IBM-7235 ext. 4678. =j doubt place a share of recently sepa- Please relerence yoyr Veleran's PIN t AML98 ~J We're open 8am-8pm, Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm, Salurday (Easlern Time). rated veterans, especially those who Award-Winning IBM Service and Support are willing to relocate, those who have a driver's license, and those who have skills which employers are seeking; in short, those who rise to the top. But what about the others? As a for-profit company, they can focus on the best and leave the rest behind. The state labor departments are the largest labor exchange bar none. DVOPs and Local Veterans Employ- NEVER RAKE AGAIN! ment Representatives are trained and 9 mandated to work with all veterans, INTRODUCING THE INCREDIBLE and many states emphasize working with the hard-to-place and economi- Cycli cally disadvantaged veterans. EFFORTLESSLY REMOVE LEAVES... I would like to see an article on employment services for the remain- TALL WET GRASS...EVEN LAWN DEBRIS! der of the veterans—where they go ...10 times faster than raking, blowing on a day-to-day basis. and liauling wtien you use t/ie Jim Crease revolutionary CYCLONE RAKE " -K^^^-t'^j

Sayre. Pa. Yoiril never dread field or yard clean-up again once you use the Cyclone Rake?' 5HP engine driven vacuum-mulcher hitches WE WANT YOUR OPINIONS to any riding mower. You can easily sweep and pulverize tons of THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE leaves, acres of grass cuttings, pine cones, sticks and more with welcomes letters concerning articles that 10 times the lifting power of mowers. Power mulching reduces appear in the publication. Be sure to volume 5 to 8 times. 200 gallon capacity lets you whiz through include youi" hometown and a daytime Unique design huge areas without stopping. Automatically bag for curbside phone number for verification. All folds flat for pick-up or power unload to your compost heap even over a wall letters are subject to editing. Send your opinions to: °' "^^^ you're done, it folds flat without Hven^haTs ^^^^^^ compact storage. Affordable for or business. THE American Legion Magazine on ttie wall! fa^" home P.O. 60X1055 So, Indianapolis, IN 46206 WHY STRUGGLE with rakes, j^YES! Please rush me FULL INFORMATION mowers, blowers, or mulchers ,5^^:';°'^^ RAKE"- and | °!^}}}^, You can also contact us via e-mail special pre-season sale prices. directly or through the World Wide that jam and clog? NAME Web: Mail the coupon at right for e-mail: [email protected] FULL INFORMATION about ADDRESS Internet: http://www.legion.org the amazing CYCLONE RAKE! CITY MAIL TO: WOODLAND POWER PRODUCTS, INC. Dept. AL1Z98 TOLL FREE 1-(800)-405-0007 I I .fHfll'T'H 72 Acton St.. West Haven, CT 0651

DECEMBER 1998 • THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE • {j Mim In I [[moil Wonbiiiiiiiid

Let's not forget our service people during the holidays. If they're stationed overseas or even stateside, please take the time to write them a letter. Use the Internet and send them special e-mail. Send them a seasonal card or a note of encouragement. Let them know that they are not forgotten and that the serious work they perform is appreciated. Also, don't forget the veterans with whom we shared foxholes, aircrew bays and bridge watch- es. Some will spend the holidays alone in veter- ans' hospitals and nursing homes. Others are

without work, searching for shelter and food. I ml know your compassion and believe you will reach out to these invisible veterans, whose holi- days will be a little brighter because you care. Legion family members' devotion to their let our communities is present year-round, but it shines the brightest at this time. Consider some exam- ples of the Legion Spirit of Christmases Past: Richmond Post 63, Augusta, Ga., filled 75 boxes with cakes, ham, fruit, cookies and candy for needy families in their area. Legionnaires IS THE SEASON for gifts, bright- also purchased toys and wrapped them for the ly-colored wrapping paper and children of these families. Like thousands of street-comer Santas swinging hand- other Posts around the country. Post 63 hosted a bells. It's a time when we're likely Christmas Party for kids and staged parties at to be more kind to strangers and local schools. iJ otters flash smiles to folks we pass on the It's no sin that a parent or guardian does not street. We are surrounded by the have enough money to make a child's Christ- warmth of love of our families in mas gift dreams come true. That's why mem- our homes, while outside the frost bers of Post 134, Clearfield, Utah, raised funds clings to window panes like a veil from a bowl-a-thon and trap shoot contest one of lace. recent year. The proceeds were used to pur- Today, I'm thinking of the holiday season chase gift certificates so that some of the upon us, counting my many blessings and the youngster's dreams could come true.

precious gift of life. I ponder the modest and For most, the holidays are a time of promise

majestic birth of an infant on a silent night and bounty. For some, though, it is a season of

two millennia ago in a Bethlehem stable. I unfulfilled wants and need. The eyes of Texas consider the courage of an oppressed people Post 163 in Weatherford were upon the chil- from long ago who today celebrate their tri- dren and shut-ins in their community. The Post umph with Hanukkah's Festival of Lights. sponsored a Christmas Party and provided gifts And I'm also thinking much about the men and fruit to the youngsters and 443 residents in and women of our armed forces—my own a nearby nursing home. The Post also "adopt- son, Craig, who is among them—deployed ed" two local girls and made sure they had pre- around the world, ready to defend freedom sents under the tree on Dec. 25. and carrying out a variety of peacekeeping and We've many reasons to be thankful during humanitarian missions. Most of us understand this special time of year. As we continue our what it's like to be far from our homes and journey in all seasons, let us always remember

loved ones at this time of year. I remember my the message of a simple carpenter's son; that first Christmas away from home, and confess love, faith and hope are the greatest of gifts we that at the time I would have gladly swapped can receive—and give. the steamy heat of Southeast Asia for a Min- From my family to yours, we wish for you a nesota snowball. joyous and merry holiday.

• • H THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE DECEMBER 1998 Pocket Watch ~ Magnifying Glass ~ Travel Alarm

I Announcing the Official Field & Strea^^ Military Timekeeper k ARMY AIR FORCE MARINES THE mELD COMMMNDER

For the first time in its 125 year history, Field & Stream® introduces perhaps the most useful accessory you will ever own, highly personalized with your Service Branch Emblem, initials, and year dates of service: ^^^^ A POCKET WATCH with large Time Dial, easy to read luminous hands and numerals, gun-metal finished case, and link chain with belt clip. Precision Quartz Movement and scratch-resistant

Mineral Glass Crystal provide years of reliable timekeeping.

• A BUILT-IN MAGNIFYING GLASS enlarges the watch face even more and flips down for

reading small print, identifying detailed objects, even using the sun's rays to start a campfire.

• A BUILT-IN TRAVEL ALARM. Set it to wake you, remind you of meetings and other

important times. Carry it in your pocket or on your belt.

• A BUILT-IN STAND to display your Pocket Alarm Watch on table, desk or at campsites.

• A LEATHER CASE with belt loop protects the watch and keeps it handy.

YOUR SERVICE EMBLEM, INITIALS & YEAR DATES OF SERVICE engraved on the stainless

steel watch caseback.

This unique Military pocket alarm watch and magnifier is NOT available in stores. It is THANK YOU

Actual dial priced at just $99* exclusively through this special announcement. An interest-free payment plan size: Vh" dia. is available (see order form for details). Your satisfaction is guaranteed 100%, or return within 30 me Field Commander SB^^ days for a replacement or refund. Watch movement is protected by a FIELD & STREAM- LIFETIME IS a Pocket Watch Travel SERVICE WARRANTEE. So order yours today. THIS IS A PERFECT GIF FOR SERVICE MEN & WOMEN, Alarm and Magnifymg ^^^^^ Fisherman, Outdoorsmen, Executives, - EVERYONE WHO IS "ON THE MOVE"! Glass - All m one!

Hinged MAGNIFYING GLASS folds Built-in TRAVEL ALARIW & STURDY A LEATHER CASE with belt loop Handsomely ENGRAVED with your

down for use In reading small print! BEDSIDE STAND for convenience! protects watch & keeps it ttandy! initials and years of service! Order Form

MAIL TO: Field & Stream® Commander Pocket Alarm Watch Call toll-free to Reserve Your Field & Stream' Pocket Alarm Watch: 7453 Shipley Avenue, Hanover, MD 21076 1-800-255-30a8 Yes! I wish to order (QTY) Field & Stream® Pocket Alarm Monday-Friday:9am-5pm. watch(es), personalized for me as follows: (/ Choices) Have your credit card ready when ordering by phone.

My initials are: Years of Service: 19 / 19 Credit Card: VISA MasterCard AMEX Exp. Date / Branch of Service:

army Dnavy air force marines coast guard Card#:

Signature

Shipping Address: (We cannot ship to P.O. boxes) Please print clearly Name I prefer to pay as follows: (/ choice) Address

Enclosed is my check for $99* per watch as payment in full, OR City . Zip_

Charge my credit card $99* per watch as payment in full, OR Daytime Phone (_

Charge three installments of $33.00* each to my credit card, per watch. *Plus $7.95 for S & H. PA residents add 6'i sale PKTWAT-ALM12/98 I For other Veteran's Commemorative products visit our web site at www.vetcom.com

Field & Stream® Is owned by Field & Stream® Licenses Company & Licensed under Its' authority by Field & Stream® Accessory Licenses Company. Miller said. "Senators on both sides of the aisle know full well where they stand. It's a shame that pure politics has obstructed the will of the people. I am very disappointed that Senate Minority Leader Tom Daschle (D-S.D.), regard- less of his position on the bill, was unwilling to join with Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott (R- Miss.) to ensure a vote on this issue."

Miller said it must be assumed that tight elec- tion races of Senators Patty Murray, D-Wash.; Carol Moseley-Braun, D-Ill.; Barbara Boxer, D- Calif.; and Russell Feingold, D-Wis., all oppo- nents of the amendment, prompted "this obstruc- tion of legislation" which has the support of 80 percent of the American people. "You'll notice that the blockade was created by senators who are secure in their seats and not by those flag-protection opponents already hang- ing on for dear life in tight races," Miller said. "Clearly they are ashamed of their position—as well they should be—and they don't want their constituents to know where they stand on protect- ing Old Glory." N THE end, despite an all-out effort The House passed a flag-protection constitu- by The American Legion, time ran tional amendment on June 12, 1997. A two-thirds

out on the proposed flag-protection majority in the Senate would have sent it to the amendment under consideration in states for ratification. the U.S. Senate. As the clock ticked "I hope the American people will return to down to the final hours of the 105th Washington a U.S. Senate willing to do what the Congress, a few opponents were able House did in 1995 and 1997: Approve a constitu- to block a vote. tional amendment that would retum to the people "We are disappointed but not sur- the right to protect the U.S. Flag from acts of prised that a few senators would physical desecration," Miller said. block a vote on a bill that has the Forty-nine state legislatures have passed Ell overwhelming support of the Congress and the memorializing resolutions in support of a flag- American people," said National Commander protection amendment, and results of a nation- "Butch" Miller, after the Senate's failure to bring wide Gallup Organization survey released in the flag-protection measure to a vote. September reiterated the reports of numerous "During the course of this campaign we have previous polls: Nearly four of five Americans faced all manner of obstructionist maneuvers and want returned to them the right to restore federal we view this as nothing more than one more pot- flag-protection laws that the Supreme Court hole on the highway to victory," Miller said. struck down in 1989. Such laws had been on the Following the Senate's inaction on Senate books for more than 100 years. Joint Resolution 40, the Legion pledged to pur- "I am concerned that the very people who sue the flag amendment early in the 106th Con- claim to be defenders of free speech are the same gress, which convenes in late January. ones who use every political maneuver in the A vote on the flag-protection amendment was book to ensure that the voice of the people is not blocked Oct. 7 on objections by Democratic Sen- heard in the halls of Congress," Miller added. ators Bob Kerrey of Nebraska and Patrick Leahy "The American Legion and the other 134 of Vermont. They claimed there was insufficient national organizations of the Citizens Flag time to debate the measure. Alliance are looking forward to the passage of "The flag-protection amendment has been the flag-protection amendment early in the 106th debated by senators for more than nine years," Congress," said Miller.

• THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 1998 I) a »

Hear why the Call now and BosE" Wave^ radio make six interest- was named a Just as a flute strengthens a breath free payments.

"Best New of air to fill an entire concert hall, The Wave radio is available for Product of 1994" the waveguide produces room-filling $349 directly from Bose, the most BY Business Week. sound from a small enclosure. This respected name in sound. So call

Tabletop radios are popular for their technology and performance is avail- 1-800-681-BOSE, ext. R8839, to convenience and small size. But their able in no other radio. learn more about our in-home trial sound quality leaves much to be You'll touch a button and and 100% satisfaction guarantee. When desired. No one really expects high- hear your favorite music come alive you call, be sure to ask about our fidelity sound from a radio. Until now. in rich stereo sound. You'll hear six-month installment payment plan. HearThe RadioThatWoke Up An Entire Industry.

Bose presents the Wave Wired magazine said it has radio. It's the one radio a "clean, sweet sound that acclaimed by leading will have your friends audio critics. Because wondering where you've it's the one radio that hidden your fancy delivers big, rich, lifelike speakers." But you have stereo sound plus a small, to hear the Wave radio for convenient size. yourself to believe it.

The best- every note the way it's meant to be For free shipping, sounding RADIO heard. The Wave radio measures just ORDER BY

YOU CAN BUY. 4M;"H X 14" Wx 8'/4"D and fits almost December 31,1998.

We think the Wave radio is the best- anywhere. So you can listen in your sounding radio you can buy. And bedroom, living room, kitchen, or Call today, audio critics agree. any room. And with your choice of 1-800-681-BOSE, Radio World imperial white or graphite gray, the EXT. R8839.

called the sound Wave radio not only fits in any room, For information on all our products:

The speakers in "simply amazing... it fits any decor. www.bose.com/r8839 radios cannot produce lifelilce boss, which is essential tor genuine breakthrough great sound. Our six-month installment payment

in improved sound Remote-controlled plan is available on telephone orders only. Please specify your color choice when quality." Business convenience. ordering the Wave® radio: Week named the Wave Operate the radio from across the Imperial White Graphite Gray

radio a "Best New room with the credit card-sized Mr./Mrs./Ms. Only the Wove radio with acoustic (Pie, : Print) wovegulde speoker technology Product of 1994.' remote control. Set six AM produces high<]uolity sound with full, rich boss. Popular Science and six FM stations, and Zip called it "a sonic marve switch between them at the and gave it a prestigious touch of a button. You can "Best of What's New even bring great Bose sound Evening Telephone award. The key to recorded music, TV pro- Mail to: Bose® Corporation, Dept. CDD-R8839, The Mountain, Framingham, MA 01701-9168. is our patented grams, or movies by connecting acoustic waveguid< the Wave radio to your CD or speaker technology. cassette player, TV, or VCR. Sefter sound through research

©1998 Bose Corporation. Covered bv pjtcni issued and/or pending. Installment payment plan and free outbound shipping offer not to be combined with any other offer. Installment payment plai

available on credit card orders only. Pri J not mclude applicable sales tax. Price and/or payment plan subject to change without notice. Frank Beacham, Radio World, 12/93. Wired, 6/94. mmimi mmi

CAN LEGION MAGAZINE, he reiterates to America." Gill, author of "Trade his belief that Bible morality rules out Wars Against America," warns that women in combat roles. What's more, fast-track trade legislation will only "I'm not a dinosaur or a lone voice," make the situation worse. he says. A graduate of the Naval War College, he insists that at least half of his fellow officers at the time opposed War Over Taiwan women in combat. RESIDENT CLINTON says the United States doesn't support inde- Ppendence for Taiwan, considered Trigger-Happy Response? by China a renegade province. But if CRUISE MISSILE strikes on Taiwan does declare statehood, an D.S.Afghanistan and the Sudan were increasingly likely development over justified by the administration under time, our country might be drawn into the self-defense provision. Article 51 a war with the People's Republic, a of the U.N. Charter. But former Regent Pentagon study suggests. House University law professor Jeff Tuomala, Speaker Newt Gingrich, for one, has who spent eight years on active duty in bluntly told Chinese officials the Unit- By CliffKincaid the Marine Corps specializing in the ed States will defend the island, a law of war, says the administration position that Ted Carpenter of the hasn't made its case that the facilities in Cato Institute describes as "reckless." Sudan or Afghanistan were a direct Carpenter says, "There is simply no Grounded For Beliefs threat that required such a response. adequate strategic reason for the Unit- EXPERTS agree: We need If these countries were terrorist ed States to risk war" to defend Tai- THEmore pilots. Too many are leaving threats, he argues, the administration wan. Instead, he adds, the United the services. Tell that to Lt. Cmdr. should have gone for authorization to States should increase arms exports to

Kenneth Carkhuff, a pilot with an Congress to use military force against Taiwan so it can defend itself. This exemplary record who was given desk them. This would have sent a clear includes letting the Taiwanese buy duty after questioning the morality of message to state sponsors of terrorism. attack submarines, sophisticated air- leading women into combat, a view- While more facts might come out to-air and surface-to-air missiles and point the Navy says raises concerns supporting the administration's case in helping the island develop an anti- about his leadership abilities. regard to the pharmaceuticals plant in ballistic-missile system. The case dates back to 1994, and Sudan, he warns that Sudan's criminal Carkhuff's cause was taken up by indictment and proposed trial of Presi- radio broadcaster Dr. James Dobson dent Clinton as a "war criminal" could War Crimes and over a dozen members of Con- appear valid to some countries, espe- AN ADVISORY mission in gress. But several years later, and after cially if it can be demonstrated that the ON1991, two American servicemen, more than $30,000 in legal bills, he bombed-out factory was completely David H. Pickett and Earnest Daw- still is hoping-one might even say civilian in nature. The United States son Jr., were gunned down during El praying-to fly aircraft. has resisted calls for an international Salvador's civil war. Their accused

Carkhuff says he was prepared to inspection of the site. killers were identified, arrested and lead his mixed-gender helicopter It is highly unlikely that Sudan jailed. The accused were freed when detachment into action if ordered to do would actually get its hands on Clinton, peace was signed and amnesty given so. But when he questioned the policy, in order to try or punish him, Tuomala members of the warring factions. citing religious concerns, he says he says, but it is also unlikely the United Pickett's father, retired Col. Edward F. suddenly found himself penalized and States will ever issue an apology or pay Pickett, isn't the only American who targeted for being a Christian and was restitution. thinks that justice still has to be done. told he would have to go. His com- Reps. Ed Bryant of Tennessee, manding officer wrote that Carkhuff's Harris Fawell of Illinois and Ron beliefs were "not compatible with fur- Tricks Of the Trade Lewis of Kentucky have introduced a ther military service." THERE MIGHT be a surplus in the measure to pressure the administration Once Carkhuff was on the way out. federal budget, but another record to deal with crimes against American Navy Secretary John Dalton reversed trade deficit looms. "The deficit this military personnel abroad. It urges course and ordered his retention, cit- year may top $250 billion in merchan- presidential pressure on El Salvador to ing his superb record of achievement. dise," predicts William Gill of the extradite the accused killers. But Carkhuff never changed his American Coalition for Competitive House Resolution 314 laments the views, losing promotions and leaving Trade. "With the Asian markets, "inability of the United States to him anxiously awaiting his fate. "I including Japan, collapsing all over meaningfully address the murder of want to fly," he says. the Orient, the trade invasion can only two members of the United States In an interview with THE AMERI- get worse as Asia jacks up its exports Armed Forces."

THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 1998 \

Small-Ship CRUISING Advertisement The Sea of Cortes Discovered

the demand for destination- wildlife sanctuaries, and out-of-the way ^^^^ As Phoenix 1 oriented travel continues to grow, beaches and bays for snorkeling, swim- c El Paso traditional tourist spots like Mexico ming and hiking. By land, they tour have begun to focus on undeveloped Baja's desert and mountain scenery ' Santa Rosalia regions and more culturally intensive and visit small ports with histories and o Copper

cultures that ,, c Loreto itineraries. One such itinerary offers a have evolved separately . , Canyon Puerto Adolfo ^ combination of beautiful beaches, rare from cities on the Mexican mainland. Lopez Mateos wildlife and historical cities. "%^4.a Paz\ Rosalia, Besides Santa ports of call Cabo San Lucas OF MEXICO Seven-night roundtrip cruises, include Mulege, Loreto and La Paz. CORTES ^ exploring the Sea of Cortes, sail north Each is widely separate—both in from Cabo San Lucas along the Baja distance and spirit—from tourist cities through stunning vistas and spectacular Eleven-night Peninsula. cruise-tours on the mainland. These towns feature switchbacks. Deep in the heart of excursion to include an Copper colonial-era architecture, cobblestone the Canyon live the Tarahumara a area Canyon, remote four times the streets and plazas, and early missions, Indians, one of the most isolated size of the Grand Canyon, located on established in the late 17th century. cultures in North America. Guests Mexico's mainland. The Copper Canyon on the Copper Canyon cruise-tour Mexico's Baja Peninsula Every Cruise West Sea of Cortes cruise have the opportunity to visit with the The Baja Peninsula, jutting out from can be combined with a 4-night land Tarahumara. mainland Mexico south of California, excursion to Copper Canyon. Four Learn More About Small-Ship Cruising offers a myriad of vistas, rugged moun- times larger and 300 feet deeper than To explore the world of small-ship tains, sandy beaches, offshore islands the Grand Canyon, Copper Canyon is cruising and the new Sea of Cortes and spectacular rock formations, best accessible by the South Orient Express, itineraries, call your travel professional viewed from the deck of a small cruise aboard domed railcars which travel today. For a free brochure and video, ship. ships, Small holding no more than from sea level to almost 8,000 feet. call Cruise West at 1-800-888-9378. 100 guests, travel close to the shoreline, negotiating narrow waterways. The ships' launches, kayaks and snorkeling gear also pro- vide up-close V.£Ui5e Sea of access to the rare wildlife Cortes found along the Peninsula. Explore Our Mexico New to the Visit pristine beaches. Spy sea lions

Sea of Cortes and whales basking in the sun. Awal

betes 35 years ago prompted Jack Boyd to of vision. Diabetes is change his lifestyle dramatically. He walks one the top cause of adult mile every day, now using a local shopping mall, blindness in North and labors three times a week on an exercise America. machine. He eats in moderation and watches his A big problem daily intake of dietary fats and sugars. with Type H dia- Unlike his diabetic father and grandmother, betes is that individ- Boyd has controlled his life-threatening disease uals can have the for three and a half decades through diet and disease 10 years exercise. "You just work out a little routine and before symptoms go with it each day," says the 75-year-old Indianapolis emerge. In the early Legionnaire. He also credits his regimen with helping main- stages, blood sugar tain his weight. It was 175 pounds when the diagnosis was increases modestly, made; since Boyd has been on insulin, his weight has causing symptoms increased gradually to a bit over 200. to be mild to non- Diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in the existent. The Ameri- United States. Of the 16 million Americans who suffer from can Diabetes Asso- diabetes, 14.9 million share Boyd's diagnosis of aduh-onset ciation recommends HIT THE TRAIL Jack Boyd steps out on a brisk diabetes, or II diabetes. other 1 . 1 are that Type The million cases everybody over walk, an important part of tlie exercise routine juvenile diabetes. 45 get screened, and that keeps his adult-onset diabetes under control. The most common form of diabetes. Type II affects nine if their screening is out of 10 diabetic Americans. It is known as adult-onset dia- negative then they betes because it customarily targets people over age 45. should get screened again every three years. The diagnostic With Type II diabetes, the body cannot properly use cut off is a fasting blood sugar greater than 126; a reading of insulin. Glucose is a form of sugar produced when food is 80 to 120 is normal. digested. When burned, glucose provides energy to the body. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, metabo- good news is that Type 11 diabetics can live long, lizes glucose. Glucose cannot be burned without insulin. Thehealthy lives by learning to control their disease through With Type II diabetes, the body's insulin becomes less exercise and diet. Dr. Zimmerman explains, "a simple effective in controlling glucose. exercise like a good brisk walk for a half hour at least five One in every 20 Americans has diabetes. Those with the times a week is very helpful." Modification of eating habits is following characteristics are at an increased risk of develop- important, too. "Most people think this means not eating ing Type II: over age 45; overweight; high blood pressure; sugar, but that isn't what we mean when we say a 'diabetic high cholesterol; member of a high-risk group, such as diet.' We mean restricting the calories in the diet and restrict- African-Americans, Hispanics, Asians or Native Americans; ing dietary fats." Oral medications and insulin also are avail- women who had gestational diabetes or delivered a child able to help the more severe cases. weighing more than nine pounds; and a history of diabetes Even better news is the fact that Type II diabetes can be in the family. delayed or prevented altogether by incorporating a healthy lifestyle now. Losing weight, following a healthy diet, main- Indeed, genetics and obesity typically play the largest role taining sufficient exercise and visiting a doctor regularly can in the disease's prevalence. According to statistics from halt adult-onset diabetes before it starts. the American Diabetes Association, nearly 85 percent of Dr. Bernstein recognizes that a healthy lifestyle change diagnosed Type II diabetics are overweight. might be difficult for diabetics, but says it is worth the small Typical symptoms include increased urination and thirst. sacrifices. "Since we have people living into their 80s, 90s Other secondary symptoms such as deteriorating eyesight, and 100s, their quality of life can be severely compromised can be mild and therefore difficult to recognize. Many con- by slowly developing diabetes." Jack Boyd recognizes that fuse diabetes symptoms with other health-related problems, fact all too well. explains Dr. Bruce Zimmerman, president-elect of the "If I hadn't been diagnosed years ago, I wouldn't be here American Diabetes Association. He says, "People visit their today." doctor having had a symptom of a diabetic complication, Julie A. Rhoad, a former assistant editor of this maga- like visual loss, a circulatory problem, numbness in their zine, is a freelance writer specializing in health issues.

12 • THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 1998 1

D I G I TA l/dlsB. Tl

It's digital.

It's satellite TV.

It's yours. IT'S FREE!

100% DIGITAL

FREE Premium Multi-Room-Ready

32-Bit, Digital Satellite TV System After Rebate (msrp$249)

Requires a 1-year programming services agreement to DISH Network One-Rate Plan (America's Top 100 CD*" plus your choice of TWO Premium Movie Packages, only $48.98/montli)

Get a $49 standard Professional Installation -or- FREE Self Installation Kit biSH NETWORK ONE-RATE PLAN $48.98/month

• Disney Channel (East 8, West] • ESPN • ESPN2 • ESPNEWS • E! • TNT • Nick a PICK 2 PREMIUM MOVIE PACKAGES f'i^ TV Land • Comedy Cenlral • Nickelodeon/Nick ol Nile (East & West] • TBS • MTV

• • • • • • , , Family Channel A&E Court TV CNN Headline News C-SPAN C-SPAN2

Discovery Channel • USA Nelwork • The Learning Channel • CNBC • Sci-Fi I I I t J Channel • QVC • Country Music Television • Lifetime • America's Voice • VH

• Home Shopping Nelwork • EV^TN • Cartoon Network • The History

Channel • The V^eather Channel • Home & Garden TV • Food Network • The

Travel Channel • The Nashville Nelwork • TBN < Angel One • Animal Planet • Gome Show Nelwork

American Movie Classics • BET • Independent Film Channel • Romance Classics • Toon Disney • Bravo • CBS Eye Oi

People • MSNBC • Classic Sports Nelwork • WON • Turner Classic Movies • CNNtn • CNNI • M2 • F/X •

Univision • Golavision • ZDTV • Noggin (available Jan. 1999| • Your Regional Sports Nelwork

DISH CD=" with over 30 channels of commercial-free, CD-qualily musici OVER 300 CHANNELS AVAILABLE ON DISH NETWORK INCLUDING BROADCAST NETWORKS, SPORTS, INTERNATIONAL AND PAY-PER-VIEW PROGRAJVIIVIING. OTHER PLANS AS LOW AS $19.99 PER MONTH AVAILABLE. MORE CHAJN1NELS...M0RE CHOICES...MORE MOVIES!

One Call Does It All; W^19530l 1^00-333-piSH

24-Hours-A-Day, 7-Days-A-Week. 3(M>ay Moneyback Guarantee When Yau Purchase Direct. More Channels...More Choices." www.dishnetwork.com HURRYa LiMlTED TIME OFFER

i and may be provided through an outdoor antenna or a dish antenna. DISH NETS Easl and DISH NETS West Broadcast Networks, and DISH NETS Local Broadcast Networks packages by s, le a Grade B intensity signal directly from local ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX affiliates with a conventional outdoor rooftop antenna and which have not received cable television within the last 90 days. Cus - (3) ' " ' — ioocr a S6.00per month Service Access Fee. Addifionalreceiversmust be activated in conjunction with ap' line. ESPN and ESPN2 programming subject for ' ^nall" ' licensed separately residential and commercial use. Sports Netwwks programming subject tc s and licensed tor i FOX " and programming activated by 1/9/99. This offer not valid with The DISH N " -

j^programming. Cant 1. See DISH THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 1998 0 . 8

ULTRASONIC PEST REPELLER GUARANTEED TO REPEL RODENTS MICE.RATS SQUIRRELS IRITE YOUR NAME INTO iPi /^^^'^^^ica's most historic Battleship recently completed her final FLEAS & BATS! MISSIUIBI journey to Hawaii. Now, the USS Missouri Memorial

Association is mviting those with a true love of American naval history to become a Plank Ovmer and participate in die establishment of a living memorial. Imagine having your name registered at the ship as part of the select group of individuals who helped bring the Battleship Missouri to its final berth of honor as well as refiirbish and The Electronic Pest Repeller transform the ship into a national memorial with a Proven Record... museum. Her location in Pearl Harbor near NOT a "CHEAP" imitation! the inspirational Arizona Memorial will tell USES NO DANGEROUS POISONS! the story of the beginning and end of The REPEL 2000 is the most advanced design unit available! // is unmatched by any competitor's modei anywiiere. Its Wodd War II m the Pacific. powerful jack hammer like sound levels easily exceeds com- petitive models by 50 times or more. Mfg. by Nat'l. Pest Con- trol Assoc. member. Engineered and tested in USA. Over emmeariaiitMe 3,000,000 units in use from coast-to-coast from Attorneys offices to Fast Food Restaurants. The REPEL 2000 Pest

Repeller is KINDER than traps, SAFER than poisons, INAU- ' prior the of the ship DIBLE to people and non-rodent pets (gerbils, hamsters, y'^v $500 contribution to Grand Opening m January 1999

It interfere with TV, guinea pigs may be affected). will not name you as a Plank Owner and includes these exclusive benefits: radio, computers or electronic equipment. No chemicals, poi- sons, insecticides or fumes. The small size allows for conve- Full color plastic wallet size card identifying you as a nient and unobtrusive placement. No maintenance. Safe to Plank Owner use everywhere. Guaranteed to work or return within 60 days for full refund (less P&H). Includes a 3 year mfg. Free admission to Batdeship Missouri warrenty. Ideal for vacation home, shed, workshop, garage, basement - anyplace plagued by pests. Meas. IVzxZ'. ABS Battleship Missouri ball cap

plastic, Ivory color Each unit protects 500 sq. ft. costs less Limited edition Battleship Missouri print than 1 i per day to operate. Shipped by FIRST CLASS MAIL. ONEfor$19.95 plus $3. P&H;TW0 for$35.95 plus $4. P&H; Plank Owner certificate SAVE $37.75! FIVEfor $75. postpaid. Send check, MO, VISA, donors at the ship MasterCard, Discover Card Acct #, Exp. Date & Signature to: Listing on computerized ships log of THE WILLOWS, Dept. PR-541 Invitations to special Plank Owner events 179 Post Road West, Westport CT 06880 Charge Orders Call: 1-800-770-1155 TOLL FREE Sign up today! This offer is only available thru January 1999.

' ' '

i I l Ji l l ll l;l l ll ll ] l! il^^ Stiuicidcr .^ IJJi l ;iii li Ji l ;ili l ii li,l ll d id,Mkii l l^lil *i Mllll,

Return to: USS MISSOURI MEMORIAL ASSOCIATION. INC.. PO BOX 6339. HOHOLULU. HAWAII 9681

PHOHE 1.8B8.USSMISS0URI - FAX 1.808.545.2265 - e-niall:[email protected] CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION ON OTHER LEVELS OF CONTRIBUTION ^.^C'

Q Enclosed is my check for $ surrort of the USS Missouri Memorial Associ; mission of establishing a Batdeship Missouri Memorial.

Q I hereby pledge to donate $_ in support of the Missouri. This pledge will be paid m

( d.itc ). installments over the next . months / years with the first installment on

Q I authorize the amount of $_ to be charged to my credit card. MasterCard \'isa 1 Love Old Glory" Card # Exp. Date / Name Addres Featuring John Schneider and Friends Signature E-Mail Phone (home)_ Help support your state's call for a constitutional amendment to protect (work)_ the U.S. flag from physical desecration liKp.y/wivw.iissmissouri.coiii while enjoying a medley of patriotic songs, including "I Love Old Glory" written by U.S. Senator Orrin Hatch.

Other songs include "God Bless Ameri- The Dispatch ca," "Armed Forces Medley," and "Boo- National Headquarters Newspaper — Published bi-monthly gie Woogie Bugle Boy." LI

10 song cassette tapes and compact READ ABOUT discs are available by sending a check Americanism Children & Youtli National Security Veterans Affairs & Rehiabilitation The American Legion/CFA $1 5/year P.O. Box 7 1 97 Indianapolis, IN 46207-7 197 Phone: 317/630-1384 NAME

Cassette tape: $ 1 Compact disc: $15 STREET Plus $2 shipping and handling

**P/eose allow 4-6 weeks for delivery CITY STATE ZIPGODE

DECEMBER 1998 • THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE • mimmmmm B.H.saiaum

JJJf UDJJJjlJJJj

ijU]|;jfJi!lJlJJ!l

strengthening our nation,

securing veterans' riglits

and protecting Old Glory

are the principles that

have guided this soon-

to-retire lawmaker

0REAKFAST—two slices of toast and a glass of juice—sits neglected on the credenza in Gerald chairs the powerful House Rules Committee, which con- Solomon's office as he works the telephone. trols the flow and shape of all legislation that goes to the "Tell Newt I'll be there for the vote this after- floor. He recently was interviewed by Joe Stuteville: noon," he says. An aide pops his head into the office and points to his watch. "Yeah, I'm 1l You came to the watching the time. Thanks." House of Representatives in 1978. How has Capitol Hill He signs some documents, finishes his tele- changed the way it's done business in those two phone conversation, glances over a fax that has decades? just been handed to him, and glances hungrily at the uneaten toast as he steps from behind his REP. GERALD SOLOMON: A lot of ways. Back in desk, all seemingly in one motion. "Hi, glad you could those days, about 70 percent of the members of the House make it," he says, offering his right hand. Just a typical and Senate were military veterans. What's changed for the morning in the life of the U.S. Representative of New worse is that today, that figure has dropped to less than a York's 22nd congressional district. third. While being a veteran certainly should not be the sole Solomon, a Republican and self-described soldier of the criterion for serving in Congress, it's important to under- "Reagan Revolution," has served in the House of Repre- stand one of our most important jobs in Congress is to pro- sentatives since 1978. Much of his focus as a lawmaker has vide for and maintain a strong national defense, backed up been on two key areas: building a strong national defense with adequate veterans' benefits to help attract the best and ensuring veterans receive fair benefits and .services. In young men and women into our all-volunteer military. We recent years, he has carried the banner on behalf of the made some gains throughout the 1980s, but I fear we're flag-protection amendment, which he helped introduce and moving back to the weakened kind of military we had dur- successfully steered through his chamber in 1995 and ing the 1970s. 1997. Solomon, a Marine Corps veteran of the Korean War, Q= You've described yourself as a "doctrinaire conser-

• THE • j|j AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE DECEMBER 1998 —

vative." Just what is that? ^ —See, I don't entirely agree with that. Alt's a Ronald Reagan conser- vative, and you just don't have to be a Republican to sign Fair enough, but isn't compromise the reality in aboard [laughs]. A doctrinaire politics, whether it's local or in Congress? conservative believes in a strong A If you have strong beliefs, it's hard to give in. You national defense, having a respect- want it all. But I had to learn that there are times when ed foreign policy and fiscal you do have to sit down and work out differences; you responsibility to shrink the size have to find common ground with your fellow lawmakers. and the power of the federal gov- The tough thing is compromising, and I've had to do that ernment and return [that power] to on occasion. the states and local governments

where it belongs. There seems to be a growing distrust among citizens A lot of people mistakenly of their elected lawmakers—that Congress is ineffective believe the United States govern- and that members in both houses don't listen to their ment is a federal democracy. If constituents. What do you say to these criticisms? you read our Constitution closely, A You have a lot of good people in this Congress who you will see that we are a republic have a lot of good intentions and want to serve their of states formed to provide a com- people well. The problem often seems to be that some mon defense. That really should members of Congress are concerned only with keeping be the main priority. The federal their job and can't say 'no' to anyone. As a result, they say government is too big, and we've 'yes' to everyone and that's how Congress got itself taken away the rights of the states. messed up in a sea of red ink. You have to keep members of Congress focused on the Q«In 1995 you challenged issues through continuous grass-roots work. That's what Newt Gingrich for Speaker of has made the flag-protection amendment campaign so suc-

the House and ultimately you cessful, and I commend The American Legion for taking ended up as chairman of the this approach on this issue. Without the Legion's strong House Rules Committee. In commitment we would never have succeeded [in getting hindsight, do you think this the amendment passed in the House twice]. worked out for the best or do you believe you might have affected more change and leadership had you been the Speaker? LIFE BEYOND THE HILL

- Newt and I are soul mates on WHEN the 106th Congress convenes next A most issues. We hold virtu- month, Gerald B. H. Solomon won't be ally the same philosophies of how government should counted among the ranks of lawmakers. operate. Our differences are mainly in style. That was the Solomon Is trading his title of "Congressman" reason why I challenged him. The truth is, Newt is an out- for "Private Citizen." standing Speaker. He could have carried a grudge against "My wife says she's worried that when I retire me, but he didn't, and I ended up as the Rules Committee from the House, I'm going to go out and find chairman. another career in politics, and I guess that's true

to some extent," Solomon says with a laugh. "I Q.You've been described as the "pit bull of the House," plan to do some consulting work and play a not shy of confronting your colleagues on issues such as strong role helping nominate a member of my the flag-protection amendment and gun control. Do you party who can win the presidential election in think that approach has helped or hindered your 2000." career? In his 20-year career on Capitol Hill, Solomon A I think it's helped. People learn fast that you're a says he and his wife, Freda, have had only five fighter and that you're not going to just put your finger days of vacation. "I think that literally shocked in the air and see what direction the wind is blowing. me into the decision to retire," he admits. "Also, Sometimes being loud and combative is not the politically I've had two serious bouts with cancer, and smart thing to do, but on the other hand, if you're debating although I'm healthy now, these situations Jerry Solomon on an issue that he's passionate about, served as a wake-up call for Jerry Solomon. you're going to know where he stands. "I think it made me realize that I need to spend more time with my wife, children and 0. Former Speaker Sam Rayburn once advised young grandchildren. Your family has to be your congressman, Lyndon Johnson, "If you want to get priority." —Joe Stuteville along, you have to go along." In what ways

1998 • THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE • DECEMBER |J Great New Products

Is your home secure? Children cared for? Hidden camera radio lets you watch - and record - even in the dark.

What goes on when you're not there.' Is a thief at work? Is your babysitter taking proper care of your kids? Loose cash "walking away"? Now sec for vourself, 24 hours a day. Handsome full-function Mai;na\()\ alarm clock/radio (with AM/FM and weatherband) has a

secret. Inside is an undetectable auto-focus micro-camera! So sensitive it sees clearly in semi-darkness, records all the action in any room.

Definition is amazing, equal to systems costing three times the price.

Set it up in minutes. Connects to TV for direct viewing, or your VCR to record any chosen time periods. The most effective security tool yet, nails

them red-handed. Camera functions - silently, invisibly - with radio on or oft".

Comes with all connecting cables, batteiy, 12V and AC adapters. Also great for stock rooms, stores, day-care or nursing homes. ATN Guardian-Eye, #HC-WRD $199.95

Wireless Guardian-Eye, has a hidden built-in video tmnsmirter, sends to your T\' or \'CR up to 300' away with no wires! #HC-WL $399.95

Wireless Full-Color Guardian Eye, same as above, but transmits to TV or

VCR in living f«/o,-. #HC-CL $499.95

Wild animals roar into your living room Every hour on the hour. Call or visit us online at: It's certainly not evctyone who can tell a friend that a snarling leopard www^edgecoxom gave you the time of day. If they don't believe you, just have them over! Beautiful woodgrain Wild Animal Clock sets free hooting gorillas, bellowing elephants, lions, tigers, bears (oh, my!) and howling wolves, too. Each sounding so real you'll buy a whip and a chair next. You'll know the hour without even loolcing. Chimps whooping it up? Must be nine o'clock. Guests are thrilled! You will be, too. Measures 13.5" across, glass- covered, runs on three AA batteries, Imagine James Bond not included. Photocell automatically re-inventing the puts the critters to sleep for the night. Exacto knife. m The Wild Animal Clock, #99811 $39.95 A ticldng package, a tangled rescue line, a broken bra strap. Now come to the rescue with class Micro-recorder is built right into and st\'le. Ready for every possible handset Records up to 3 hours. Could emergency. All hidden inside! - save you a fortune or a lawsuit Graphic arts, modeling, first aid, "Boy, I wish I had that on tape. " How wire stripping, box opening, and

many times we've wished it! The solution is quick repairs anw'here. Unscrew now miniaturized right into a standard sections for a car\'ing blade, telephone handset. Just click out your present cutting blade, saw, hole- puncher,

handset, and replace it with the Record-A- nail remover, and more. Fix a Call. You get cr)'stal-clear recording, even on shoe. Spear a bagel. Tweezers multiple lines. With no extra gear. Record to remove a sliver. Scraper for shaky deals, critical instructions, promises from stains. And of course a your broker, advice from doctors, or just the marvelously smoodi-writing

voices of far-off loved ones. Plus, unlike pen. Each tool is hardened digital recorders, you can take the micro-tape stainless steel. Body is with you. Records up to 3 hours on a single anodized, milled aluminum. microcassette, without annoying beeps. Knurled cylinders spin for Hooks to most any phone. Takes 2 AA quick tool changes. Do-it- batteries, included. your-selfers, campers, hunters, gadget lovers, and of course Record-A-Call Deluxe Handset, international secret agents, all #71201 $79.95 swear by it! You will, too. SiimptitiDiis tbivd-lmrty iiihTccinum ofphone

conversations is iUci]al. Chccli your state guidelines Craftmaster Pen Tool, on reeordin/i yiiur own tivo-pnrty eonversations. #CPT-625 $29.95

Satisfaction Guaranteeci or Your Money Bacic* Revolutionary lighter is 100% Brilliant new windproof. Glass porthole lets binoculars break

you know it's on. through optical

With other windproof Hghters, in size barrier. bright sunlight it's hard to tell if the flame's Now in big ^ on. The Iron Eagle solves that. Click the 1 0x power. ^ ignition. First, the flame is a vivid crimson. Never Second, fire it up and the glass porthole before have the best glows white to orange. You know it's BAK-4 lanthanum prisms (used working even in the brightest light. in $600 Zeiss units) been Cun'ed, low profile design rides lump-free incorporated into such a compact in your pocket. Adjustable flame, will fuse binocular. Slip them from your metal or light up your smoke. Butane pocket or the included case. Crystal- available anywhere. Great price! clear 10 x 25 power instantly brings far-ott Iron-Eagle Windproof Jet Lighter, details startiingly close. And unlike ordmar\' #X-500 $19.95 binoculars, which get hazy over time, new SportTechs have i5-/fl_y«' genuine ruby-coated lenses, IR haze and UV glare are nullified, with zero eye fatigue. Most incredibly, they measure just 3" x 3" x 1.4"! Rubber finish armors against dust, moisture, shock, or abuse. Enjoy vivid front-row scenes anywhere, and leave your clunky old- Welcome to the machine. fashioned binoculars at home.

To access the time on our New SportTech^M Micro-Binoculars, #1025-DX $89.95 best-selling Machine Watch, Here is how confident we are that these will be the best compact touch die secret release button. binoculars you II ever own: if they everfo^, scratch, or break, we Gleaming pistons push and will replace them absolutely free. slide, and the cover raises.

Click it closed, and it's protected fi^om dust and impact. Quartz action is ultra accurate. Wear it and enjoy the compliments you'll receive - from men, women, and any cyborg you meet.

Machine Watch III, #0340-M $39.95

Who can you trust? Who is telling the truth? Try this on them.

Car dealer honest about your repair bill? Babysitter trustworthy? Truth seekers throughout the years have developed many methods to gauge a person's guilt or innocence. In the 1970s, the military sponsored research to develop covert lie detection, using voice and psychological stress analysis. Now Daka Research has incorporated these theories into the new Truth Machine^"'. As someone speaks, check out the bank of glowing LED barlights. The degree of detected tension runs from green (low) to yellow (medium) to red (high). Although no machine can absolutely tell truth from fiction, this astonishing marvel is fascinating to watch as you engage in conversations. (Great at a party - you'll be surprised at the confessions you'll hear just having the Truth Machine there!) Even test it on phone conversations, recorded voices, or newscasters and politicians on TV or the radio! Takes one 9V battery, not included. Built-in mic and phone connector. Adjusts for sensitivity. Measures just 6" x 5" x I ", so you can test for lies anywhere! The Truth Machine™, #TM-10 $59.95

No machine is a conclusive lie-detector. Do not use the Truth Machine to make personal or business decisions without independent verification. Sold as a novelty only.

'^Hie Edge ^'' Company

TOOLS, GIFTS, & HI-TECH ACTION GEAR

For Instant Delivery, Call Toil-Free 2 1-800-732-9976 i 24 Hour Credit Card Order Hotline

or send check/money order to: The Edge Company • P.O. Box 826-AN1298 • Brattleboro, VT 05302 Add $6.00 express shippins and insurance per item, $2 00 each additional item.

Ever/ item you buy is baclced up by our iron-clad, no-risk guarantee, you will be completely satisfied or your money back. The Edge Catalog - the hottest gifts, tools, and unique stuff in the world. Now for a limited time, call for a free issue! m/mfA

American service members liave always

found a way to celebrate Christmas

—even in meager circumstances.

AR'S dangers ern Front ''Christmas and toil have Truce'' of 1914, those always made who bear arms have the Christmas alwaysfound ways to re- promise of new the spirit against the peace and joy backdrop of war more poignant and ap- Our readers submitted preciated. From the late remarkable and moving Imagination meal on Hessian ra- memories of the Christ- TONY VALENTINO, a former tions gained by George mases they've kept while Marine staff sergeant, writes that he cherishes the memory of Washington's Christmas in uniform, sharing the Christmas 1944 as a special trib- ute to his wife, Margery, who died night crossing of the spirit of holiday seasons in July 1997. "I spent my nineteenth and Delaware, to the West- past. twentieth birthdays overseas and

20 • THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 1998 no commercially produced Christ- mas ornaments in 1 944. But Margery Valentino, a bride of two months, made decorations of tin cans. She and Tony are shown hanging them on their first Christmas tree.

21 in Washington, D.C. Yuletide patterns," Valentino re- "I was getting ready to ship out calls. "Those ornaments rusted Talent &Love again, and Margery wanted to and got lost over the years have a Christmas tree [in our one- (though bought ornaments never came back to the states in late room quarters off base]. She made did shine as brightly), but the 1943. After recovery in Oak ornaments from tin cans from her memory of the love behind them Knoll Hospital and Great Lakes mess hall." is always in my heart. Who can Naval Hospital, I was sent to "As a cook at the base, say why certain things happen? In Quantico, Va." Margery saw more tin cans than my case, I met a special lady There, in early 1944, Valentino Popeye on a good spinach day. while in the Marine Corps [and met Margery Hunt, a PFC just out The tin got cut into stars, she made] the Christmas of 1944 of boot camp. They married Oct. snowflakes, flowers and all the our most memorable."

• • DECEMBER 1998 THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE 21 Christmas at War

Impressed by his charges' Christmas spirit, Lt. Kubo (in front of the homemade Christmas tree with some of his guards), a non- Christian Japanese, joins the prisoners' festivities in the British barraclfs. (Maj. Gordon, while at the party, is not in this picture.) Christmas Brings a Touch ofFreedom

RICHARD M. GORDON, a retired That Christmas was Gordon's third in our Japanese camp commander, one Lt. Army major and a Bataan survivor can POW Camp 2-D at Mitsushima, Japan, Kubo, ordered the release of Red Cross recall the difference the Christmas spirit and the previous two were completely packages that had been in a warehouse made to some prisoners of war in 1944. without any feeling of Christmas. for over two years. Each prisoner on

It was "...our last Christmas in captivi- "In 1944, however, we decided to cel- Christmas Eve received a full box of

ty. We had no idea of how we would ever ebrate Christmas, even if it were to be our American food. What a treat! No one live to see Christmas 1945. The Japanese last one. Our Jewish doctor, Alfred We- slept that night, but surely the spirit of had assured us that in the event of an in- instein, conducted carol singing and read Christmas was as prevalent in that camp vasion, we would all be put to death. We passages from the Book concerning as if we were free men," Gordon wrote. had no reason not to believe them, as we Christmas," Gordon remembers. "It is a Christmas I remember every saw no other way for the war to end." "Impressed by our Christmas spirit. Christmas... A most memorable time."

I Korean Yule Train on Track

NORTH KOREANS almost took the as it was possible to be," he wrote. city of Kyong Ju, South Korea, in the "The railroad station was filled with months before Christmas 1950. Cpl. freight cars beyond capacity. There Francis Carpenter had been assigned were thousands of soldiers in the sta- to help keep the railroad junction in tion. Our railroad courier had not yet the community working. But from made it as far as our station. This September until December, after the meant no mail or Christmas dinner, enemy had been thrown back, things except our rations. We had an old Ko- were quiet. At Christmastime, how- rean lady cooking for us. She was ever, train traffic through the town Catholic, and I had promised to have began to pick up, and Carpenter my mother send me a Catholic rosary Cpl. Francis Carpenter (left), now of Res- found himself busily servicing train for her. The rosary, our mail and cue, Calif., poses for a photo with a fellow member of his transportation unit, Sgt. engines with coal and water. Christmas dinner all showed up before Westley Holden. "Christmas Eve found us as busy midnight."

22* THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 1998 In the Infantry, It WasJust an Average Day

A SMALL CHRISTMAS TREE on a I was used to growing up, in Cincin- "Come to think of it," adds Wilke, tent pole marked the holiday in Viet- nati," he says. "Periodically, I would re- "it was pretty much like any other day nam for Charles Wilke. ceive packages from home, and to my in the life on an infantry soldier in com- "By Christmas 1968, 1 had been in surprise, one of them contained a small bat. But... for the freedom we gave, to

Vietnam two months and had pretty Christmas tree with all the trimmings as many or as few as it was, I'd do it all much adjusted to the heat that had, plus a musical nativity scene." over again." when I first got off that plane, over- Wilke was an RTO-radio whelmed me. Quite different from what telephone operator-with D Co. 2nd Bn., 1st Inf., of the 196th Light Lifantry Brigade, and they moved almost daily. One day might find them at L.A. Sooner, a fire support base, the next "on the road,"

protecting Highway 1 be- tween Chu Lai and Da Nang. "Two men would put their ponchos together each night to form a two-man tent, so on mine, I put my Christmas tree. I gave the nativity scene to a young Vietnamese girl, mainly because with 70 pounds of ammo, radio, food and equipment, I didn't need any more weight." There was no church ser- vice, no caroling, no family gathering nor ham and turkey On the road to Da Nang, a Vietnamese Gathered at Charles Wilke's tree are (from left) Willie girl got a musical nativity scene. on a large table for Wilke 's Geisler, Sagers, Lt. Mike Holroyd and Jim 1968 Christmas. Hain*°"'

Hawaiian Samaritans

THE POWER of church and while the host served mai tais. prayer played an important role Dinner was ready, and we went during World War II. in to eat," says Berent. "People flocked to churches The couple had three chil- to pray for loved ones in the dren, two boys and a girl, rang- service. My buddy, Willis ing in age from 12 to 8. Dinner Lankenau, and I were in Pearl included turkey with all the Harbor on Christmas of 1944. trimmings and fine wine. After- To celebrate, we decided to at- wards, there was a gift ex- tend church services, then head change, and the girl handed for the local YMCA where they Berent and Lankenau Parker would have a buffet dinner for pen and pencil sets. The two servicemen," recalls Clemence thanked the family and were M. Berent of Chicago, 111. chauffeured back to their ship, As Berent and Lankenau which attracted the attention of were leaving the church, a man some of the crew. and his wife invited them to "We came aboard and told Christmas dinner. of our good fortune, and there "There was a limo waiting, was envy. I said, 'See, if you and we drove to their home on guys went to church instead of Clemence M. Berent (right) and Willis Lankenau had Diamond Head. ..a beautiful the gin mills, you too might their picture taken by a family who invited them to " home nestled among palm have been invited,' Berent re- Christmas dinner in the family's Diamond Head home trees. We relaxed on the patio calls. in 1944.

• • DECEMBER 1998 THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE 23 Christmas at War

dessert nor toast to the occasion, but per-

haps that was the result of the other visit. "Our Christmas dinner was interrupt- ed when we were alerted that a Japanese sub had surfaced and was observing the island. We were ordered not to fire on the sub and give away the locations of our positions. Our outdoor movie was 'White Christmas' starring Bing Cros- by. I was wondering if Eleanor Roo- sevelt was enjoying horsemeat patties for her Christmas dinner," Mitchell writes. After his tour on Christmas Island, Mitchell participated in the invasions of Eniwetok and Saipan as a combat medic. He was awarded two Purple Hearts and two Bronze Stars, and his wounds from the Saipan battle required a 15-month convalescence. "The war was over for me, but Christ- mas Island still remains in memory."

On one of her many wartime tours, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt visits Christmas Island on Christmas day in 1942 and was photographed by Gus Mitchell. Christmas on Christmas

GUS MITCHELL'S 1942 Christmas on found out in a hurry it was pretty low," Christmas Island was spent as a medic Mitchell, now a resident of Richmond, with a detachment of infantry at a re- Ind., recalls. "On Christmas we didn't mote post where his chief activity was have any bright lights, bells, Christmas shark fishing. He recorded two holiday trees or a big dinner or gift exchange." visitors. Mitchell, then a technical sergeant, "Some of the boys," writes Gus Mitchell, holding up one of the sharks "On Christmas Day we had a sur- recalls without other comment, a "great, he caught on Christmas Island in the prise visit from Eleanor Roosevelt. She tasty" Christmas dinner which consisted south Pacific in 1942. Don't ever (h/n/c, was to tour the island to find out how the of horsemeat patties, dehydrated pota- Mitchell advises, that Christmas Island means heaven or paradise. morale of the men was holding up. She toes, bread and coffee. There was no

Monkey & Mistletoe

HE DIDN'T have a red nose, and he was a primate rather than a reindeer. Nonetheless, an example of Southeast Asian wildlife managed to bring some Christmas cheer to Marines stationed in Vietnam during Christmas 1967. Lester E. Sellers of Johnstown. Pa., recalls shar- ing his "hootch" with the visiting monkey during that Yuletide season. "He lived with us for only a short while. He really helped us forget where we were—only for a short while. Even though he ate the cookies and treats our parents, girlfriends and

wives sent us, he was still OK." While one might expect such a Christmas visi- tor to be comfortable in and around trees, this one took every opportunity to knock over the decorat- ed tree sent by Sellers' parents.

"We all took our turns setting it back up. Maybe small visitor to Marines stationed in Vietnam eyes the Christmas he was trying to tell us something, not only about A tree, which he often knocl

24 • THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE 'DECEMBER 1998 FINAL LIQUIDATION SALE

U.S. AIR FORCE A-2 FLIGHT JACKET

GENUINE LEATHER!! TOP-GRJIIN, SMOOTH NAPA LEATHER Made to exact specifications of the original A-2 Jacket with special 48 st OWII American Flag lining

• Made of highest pality, soft and li preminm genuine leather. 74.99!!

• Poly/cotton lining with fiher fill insulai for warmth

• Snap down collar

• Two-way entry front pockets with snap closed flaps

• Inside chest pocket • Imported • Knit cuffs and waist • Free shipping & Handling when you buy 2 or more! (Save $9 on each Jacket)

CALL TOLL FREE HOURS A l^^V: RISK FREE! 24 |.^(j(j.247-9S01 Delivery (1-2 weeks), OH 30 Day ''No-Hassle" mail the Older form below to: rprr nVTHTAP (We enconrage Mail Orders) I IIXiIi flVIAIUn Refund or Exchange! a AIRBORNE SUNGLASSES, (excludes shipping & handling) 400 Frank W. Burr Blvd. $25 value, with pur- Coloi shown: Daih Brown Teaneck, N| 01666 chase of each jacket. (Also available in Black)

CUT OUT AND HfllL TEIS COUPON. Circle desired coloi & size(s)

Sizing Chart 36-38 39-41 42-44 46-48 50-52 54-56 WAS NOW QUANTITY TOTAI. Mens (Black Or Dark Brown) S M L XL $99 $74 Mens (Black Or Dark Brown) XXL XXXL $109 $79 Mens Tall (Black or Dark Brown) MT LT XLT $109 $79 Mens Tall (*Black or Dark Brown) XXLT XXXLT $1 19 $84 Womens (Dark Brown Only) 6-8 10-12 14-16 18-20

S M L XL $99 $ 74

Total

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 ''9."" for NAME (Last, First) Teleplione (Include Area Code) A66 Slilpping & Handling

1 1 1 1 1 I 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 II 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 II 1 li 1 1 1 1 for a jacket order (.\o. ADDRESS and Street, Apt or Suite No,) " CITY STATE ZIP No Shipping & Check or Money Order Enclosed (Make Payable (o:"llI8B0RNE") MaU to: {JJnSlNf07666 Haixlling if 2 or more 0 Visa Mastercard American Exnress Enter Card Number Below: jackets are ordered

CardNnmber:| Expiration:] Grand Total | | | | | | | I | | M M 1 | \/\ \ \

SCI 01 Gift ofLife

INFANTRY of Patton's third Army near Pratz, Luxembourg, had a few mo- ments of precious quiet on a cold Christ- mas Eve in 1944. They had just com- pleted an attack on German positions when a U.S. bomber flew over Ameri- can positions. Keith D. Pregler of Bulverde, Texas, a former member of G Company who found himself in this spot on the Bulge, remembers seeing the smoke and para- chutes trailing from the crippled plane. "One of the crew landed in a tree halfway between U.S. and German lines, he popped his reserve chute and

used it to climb down to the ground... All this activity was clearly visible to the Germans, who were not far away. They did nothing; not a shot, not a mortar. Un-

fortunately, I do not know what hap- pened to the remainder of the crew. This was one very lucky airman with only | some scratches and bruises. t all "In reality, we were very lucky % that day because the Germans allowed I [us to go collect the airman]. We were »

bunched up and exposed, making an | easy target for several minutes. Maybe it Members of the 26th Infantry Division retrieve a crew member (among the group of was Christmas..." men to the left) of an Army Air Corps light bomber shot down as it targeted German positions in the "Bulge" during Christmas 1944.

Evacuation: a Holiday Blast IN THE WEEKS before Christmas 1949, United Nations forces estab- lished a beachhead at Hungnam, Korea, as a way for the First Marine Division to evacuate after fighting their way from the Chosin Reservoir area. Bob Mitchell, who served as a Navy journalist during the Korean War cov- ering amphibious forces, remembered naval power keeping the North Korean forces from overrunning the beach un-

til the Marines arrived. "Finally, on Christmas Eve, action shown in this photograph took place on ammunition and supplies that could not be removed due to the lack of ships." An underwater demolition team planted explosives creating, in Mitchell's words, "One big bang for the holiday." Munitions and supplies at ttie Hungnam, Korea, beachhead are blown up on Christ- mas Eve 1 949 to prevent the enemy from capturing them.

• • 2|j THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE DECEMBER 1998 THE SINGING COWBOY! Gene Autry, the greatest singing cowboy movie star ever, teams up with his faithful horse. Cham- pion, and ever-present side kick, Smiley

Burnette, to produce over 1 00 movies. Autry suc- cessfully battled evil crooks and con men—and there was always a song or two to set things

right. The plots always made it clear that blazin' six guns and horses ruled the day The simplicity and greatness of these classics transcends time. This special commemorative film collection includes these cowboy classics.

HERE IS WHAT YOU GET!

Public Cowboy No. 1 (62 MIN.) - Gene & Smiley track down wiley cattle rustlers. The Big Show (54 MIN.) - Autry plays a dual role ashimself & his own stuntman. Boots & Saddles (59 MIN.) - Gene & Smiley teach an English tenderfoot the "code of the west". Man From Music Mountain (54 MIN.) - Gene &

Smiley overcome con men in a desert town. Rim Of The Canyon (70 MIN.) - Gene, as a law- man tracks down villains who were jailed by his father. Oh Susannah (59 MIN.) - Robbed and thrown from a train. Autry & two drifters pursue the thieves.

VHS video has six full length movie classics. They have been reproduced with the most advanced state-of-the-art equipment available to assure you

of getting an excellent, superior resolution finish. EACH LAKEsTdE PRODUCTi,T)ept"M99"2 3038 N.W. 25 Avenue, Pompano Beach, FL 33069 30 Day Money Back Guarantee Why Pay $19.95? Six Full-Length Gene Autry Movies VIDEO BONANZA! only $9.95 plus $3.50 shipping Full Length Action Pack Video Two Full-Length Gene Autry Movie Collections For The Whole Family To Enjoy. only $18.95 plus $6.00 Shipping

The Gene Autry Collection captures over a Name decade of classic movie making. It is just chock Address full of action and excitement so the whole fam- City_ ily will get hours of enjoyment. VHS tape has six full-length, fun-loving movie classic features. j^tate_ Zip. Christmas at War

Ui^:j NAVAL COMMUNICATION SERINE

u. s. s

Heading: HOM 325^ 181810/71 DEFERRED Gf? 134 BTsP

FLEET AND PACIFIC OCEAN AHEAS FAH FRO^I, HOI/€ m LOVED OtCS X BUT

THERE 18 COJ^ORT \\\ THE KKOViLTOE THAT WE| EXTDIT OF OUfi DISTAts'OE FROr.^ I50?^f; IS A WEASURG OF OUTI SIXXJESS IN BEATING BACK THE AGGRESSOR fm\ THAT THROUGfl OUR JOINT EFFORTS ALL BAf^ER TO OUR H0^€8 Pm FAMILIES HAS BEBl REMOVED X 'iE fMY LOOK FORWARD TO THIS \m

YEAR AS3URf3) THAT IT \1ILL SEE; \m AMD l,IORE POVfEFUL GL0W8 DLALT Tl€ ENLl/Y Afa TflAT IT ^'^ILL DRING US CLOSER TO VICTORY m PEACE X

|» THE REE8TABLl3f^1EHT OF THIS PEACE ALL OF YOU BRASffi Af© UNEXCaLED ISILL ALL HAVE A SHARE X THAT IS THE PRIcaSSS GIFT YOU ARE

EARNirJG FOf^ YOUR LOVED 0?€S A!0 ALL FliTURE C5ENERATI0NS.

TOR 1^ BEC 44 Opr. Sys. RDO Freq.or JTQ^ TOD Method CI NOP AC ACTION TO: ALPOA INFORMATION TO:

Busy Ship Takes Timefor Christmas

FOR THE CREW of a busy destroyer, "The 1943 copy of 'morning orders' Among the day's official messages USS Brown, no Christmas trees were found us supporting operations near was one from the Pacific Fleet's com- provided in 1943 or 1944, but, as Stan Kavieng [a New Guinea port on Balgai mander-in-chief. It cited that comfort in

Norris writes, "There was a feast fit for Bay]. As our air groups pounded tar- this Christmas far from home and loved a king given us on each 25th. The meal gets at that location, we squeezed in the ones contained the comfort that the dis- was capped off with a big, fat cigar to meal later that day," says Norris, now of tance also measured the success of their enjoy." Coronado, Calif. efforts to guard homes and loved ones.

In Buckner Bay, Okinawa, part of the USS Brown bridge crew takes time to pose for a photo at the spiinter shield. The war-time her- aldry displays the ship's combat record.

28 • THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 1998 .. , BUY ONE SDir VITAMINS Dis€over Our Greai Sttvings by Mail!

St. John's Wort Standardized 150 mg Gluco-Pro 900" Gluco-Pro 900 Is SDV's Exclusive Patented Formula St. John's Wort is an all-natural way to HelpsAssist in Mood promote mood enhancement and Combining Glucosamine and Chondroitin Elevation* Naturally well-being.* This natural herbal extract SDV's Gluco-Pro 900 combination of Glucosamine and Chondroitin provides an important nutiritional approach for healtiiy joints and is a dietary supplement without the 7tem# 7560 cartilage in one convenient dietary supplement.* This new formula side effects associated with Botde of 60 Capsules »P conventional drugs. supplies twice tiie amount of Glucosamine and Chondroitin per tablet Buy 1 , Get 1 FREE 5.99 compared to our otiier quality Glucosamine Chondroitin 450 mg. EACH TABLET SUPPUES: CoQ-10 30 mg High Potency Glucosamine HCl ...500 mg Chondroitin Sulfate ...400 mg Co Q-10 functions in the manufacture of adenosine triphosphate Item#208.12 cell. Q-10 also as (ATP), the basic energy molecule of the Co acts Bottle of 60 Tablets an antioxidant, similar to Vitamin E, by protecting against lipid Buy 1, Get 1 FREE. ^24.88 peroxidation. Co Q-10 is manufactured by the body, however naturally occurring levels have been shown to consistently decrease with age. Item#1155 ^ Bottle of 30 Softgels Ip('9.99 Echinacea 500 mg Buy 1, Get 1 FREE .. Echinacea (ek-uh-NAY-shuh) Item#1120 provides superior herbal support Bottle of 100 Capsules for healthy immune function and .... '5.99 die ability to help promote general Buyl.GetlFREE Ginkgo BUoba^Sx' well-being.* Studies have shown that Ginkgo acts as an antioxidant that helps to protect tire cells from free radical damage. Because brain cells are quite vulnerable to free radical damage, some scientists believe

that this is one of the reasons why Ginkgo helps to keep brain cells * Selenium 100 meg healtiiy SDV has it in the preferred potency 50: 1 Extiract 24% 60 mg, and at a most preferred price! Identified as a KeyAntioxidant This trace mineral can support the protective benefits Suggested Usage: ltem#ll35 a. of Vitamin E and help fight firee radical damage. One to two Bottle of 60 Capsules capsules daily. Buy 1 , Get 1 FREE . . 10.99 Bottle of 250 Tablets Super Multiple 50 Buy I, Get 1 FREE...

Now withAminoAcid Complex and the TotalAntioxidant Group SDV Dept.: AL1298, P.O. Box 9215, Delray Beach, FL 33482-9215

An exclusive base composition of: Alfalfa Leaf Exti-act, Watercress, Brewer's Yeast, Wheat To Order, Call Toll Free 1-800-738-8482 Germ Exti:act, Yogurt Culmre & Acidophilus, Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) , Bone Meal, Apple Pectin, Glutamic Acid, f. ua^o^"^^ ITEM HOW PRICE EXTENDED Ribonucleic Acid ^^^^ (RNA) , Kelp, NUMBER MANY SIZE NAME OF PRODUCT EACH TOTAL Bottle Lecitiiin Extiract. of 50 Tablets Buy 1, Get 1 FREE . 6.55

Bilberry 40 mg capsules Extract (4:1) providing 25% Anthocyanidins Documented directiy from European medical journals and published scientific research, tills natijral herb has been reported to promote visual acuity, maintain healthy blood pressure, promote ltem# 1 H77 circulation, increase sti-engtii and r>„„i„„fcn/-„ o. i„o ^^< fle)QbiHtyofblood vessels in legs and To order additional items, please use a separate ^°"^f ^^Pf -t/^-ta Get 1 FREE . . piece of paper and enclose with your order form. SUBTOTAL gums, and maintain healtiiy blood ^"Y 1 . 3.99 sugar levels.* Please call for UPS Ground, UPS Second Day Charge and Express Delivery Charges. ^'^'PP'"3 «3.95

All orders going to Canada will be shipped via Parcel Post for $25. TOTAL Call for 1-800-738-8482 your FREE copy We ship all orders parcel post (4th Class Mail) unless otherwise specified.

of Healthy Savings Catalog METHOD OF PAYMENT: Make check or money order (No C.O.D.s) payable to: SDV Vitamins" Payment Enclosed or Charge my MasterCard VISA American Express Discover The Country's Best _^Value In Nutrition" INN Credit Card Number mmExpires PLEASE MENTION EXPIRATION DATE: mSSi^y Signature as shown on card (required) CODE AL1 298 January 31, 1999 SHIP TO: NAME

'These statements liave not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. Tliese products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

At time of printing, all items were in stock. Products may be out of stock or discontinueiJ without notice Ttte prices contained herein are sale prices

and cannot lie combined with any other offer or discount unless otherwise specified Consumer quantities only. Not responsible for printer's errors. Daytime phone number: Christmas at War

ed the area in and around St. Yule Vith. On Dec. 22, we were at Neiibruck. Belgium, approxi- Remember mately two miles southeast. For the next two days, we were a holding force through Salem This One Chateau, Viesalm and Liemeux. "On Christmas Eve, 1944, our unit was caught in a severe cross- into the AFTER MY INDUCTION fire in the Manhay-Bra area on Army in 1942, I was always assigned the way to Werbomont, Belgium, to the 14th Tank Battalion, 9th Ar- where we were taken out of ac- mored Division," writes Paul J. Bouda tion and given our first 'hot' meal of Boca Raton, Fla. "When the Battle in nine days. of the Bulge started on Dec. 16, 1944, "Our Christmas dinner that we were assembled in the vicinity of year consisted of dehydrated Ligneuville, Belgium, approximately potatoes, a pork chop, peas and a eight miles north of St. Vith. At 1730 peach. It was all mixed up in the hours, our combat units moved south mess kit, and by the time we got and east to the area of Brietfeld, Bel- to eat, it was cold. gium, and Steinbriick and Eicherath, "At each of the 53 Christmas TSgt. Paul J. Bouda's camera recorded him Germany, where we made contact confronting Christmas dinner in 1944 after dinners I have had since, I have nine days in action in the Battle of the Bulge. with the enemy." always given thanks for what we Some of the members of his battalion's sup- "For the next five days, we defend- have on the table." port elements were victims in the IVIaimedy massacre.

"God Got Us Together One Last Time"

I JOINED the Navy in 1942 and volun- just finished his Army training was to be joining with family and friends - for the teered for submarine service. My brother sent to Europe in January. last time. After a few days of hunting and

Mark, who was two years younger, joined "We lived in a small town in Mary- visiting, we departed. It was a tearful but the Marine Corps the following year. In land, so I took the bus to Washington, wonderful goodbye." 1944, my youngest brother was drafted D.C., to take a bus for the 150-mile trip "My Marine brother was sent to Oki- into the Army," writes A. Allen Lankford, home. After buying a ticket, I saw a Ma- nawa. My Army brother was sent to Eu-

Sharptown, Md. rine in the lobby; it was my brother going rope where he was killed in action in Ger- "At Christmas, my ship was in Key home. After our hellos, we got on the bus, many on Feb. 22. Scott was only 18 years West, and I had a few days' leave. My and there was our younger brother, going old.It seems as though God got us togeth-

Marine brother, Mark, was in North Car- home for Christmas..." er one last time, because I had been sched- olina... My youngest brother, Scott, had "Christmas 1944 was a wonderful uled to take my leave at New Year's."

The brothers Lankford pose in front of their home during Christmas leave in 1944. The youngest, Scott (right), would be killed in ac- tion in Germany less than two months later.

30 • THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 1998 A lot of retired men find their dreams The Prostate Formula is available interrupted by constant nighttime bathroom without a prescription near the trips. And it's one reason more men nowadays laxative section at major pharmacies. are paying closer attention to prostate health.

They follow their doctor's advice to exercise and eat right. And they take The Prostate

The Formula. It's a dietary supplement with PROSTATE _ FORMULA natural ingredients that scientific research

suggests can help

maintain healthy PROSTATE FORMULA • Clin.tally tiKted Ingredienu LABORATORIES. prostate function!

No wonder so many doctors recommend it.

Ask for The Prostate Formula at your drugstore. Or call 800-565-6656.

Available at ^OOKS ^Albertsons Pharmacy ^Drug Empori FEDCO

S»Mn drugs. tarian "utopia." trade, not simple to accomplish. First, Two wars, two similar outcomes. assistance from the winning side was But winning the peace in the second unprecedented. International custom ay 8, 1945. Bells rang; scenario remains to be seen. The wars held that victors imposed tribute. Sec-

I the people rejoiced and differed—the first hot, the second cold. ond, the devastation of almost every in- offered prayers of The world united against the Nazis dustrialized country meant the United

thanksgiving. VE Day while many sought accommodation States would go it alone. marked the destruction with the Soviets. However, there is one The prospect of instability con- of a cruel empire that common truth: At the end of each, the vinced Marshall and President Harry subjugated its citizens United States was left as the world's Truman that U.S. security required an and conquered, en- leader. After World War II, we took the economically healthy Western Europe. slaved and murdered lead and established conditions to A hungry, suffering electorate might millions of others. guarantee peace and safety in Western elect communist or fascist govern-

1 The defeat of Nazi Ger- Europe. At the end of the Cold War, it ments, overturning hard-won battle- many left Europe in ashes and with lit- is time to include the rest of Europe. field victories. Marshall, who was the tle hope. The American Legion was among Army chief of staff during the war, saw

Dec. 3 1 , 1 99 1 . The Cold War ended the first to urge the United States to se- that Stalin was anticipating Europe's when the Soviet Union collapsed. With cure the victory and confirm its leader- economic collapse and the revolutions it went the rusty, unfulfilled promises ship. This included early support of the predicted by Lenin and Trotsky. of communism. Like the Nazis, the So- United Nations and pushing for a coop- viets enslaved their own people and erative security system in Western Eu- Marshall's idea, however, drew those they conquered—a failed totali- rope. U.S. Secretary of State George C. criticism across the political Marshall's plan to rebuild Europe fit spectrum. The left called it a Michael D. Kanner retired from the perfectly. In a June 1947 speech at Har- provocation and an outrage. Conserva- Army as senior analyst, plans division, vard, he said it was time to break tives feared the cost would bankrupt operations directorate in Europe. He "...the vicious circle and restore the the treasury. Isolationists called for the teaches college courses in American confidence of the European people in United States' withdrawal from Eu- foreign policy and is Sgt.-at-Arms at the economic future of their own coun- rope, as they had after World War I. To American Legion Post 32, Longmont, tries and of Europe as a whole." Re- build support, Marshall called on lead- Colo. covery would grow with unity and ing figures in business and govern-

32 • THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 1998 World

War II left ment. To answer isola- all Europe Europe today is to act were met. By the plan's conclusion in tionist and conservative devastated. firmly, promptly, and ad- 1952, European industrial production critics, Truman and Mar- equately—without blus- was 200 percent over prewar levels. shall sought support from The Cold ter but with complete The plan cost the United States $13.4 a group with unimpeach- readiness if war should be billion, less than 2 percent of one able credentials, a group forced upon us." year's GNP in 1947. War left whose members not only O'Neil emphasized the Although economic success would had proven their patrio- Eastern resolution came from be reason enough to laud the Marshall tism, but also had a pro- members of whom "a Plan, it also provided the framework found interest in world great proportion. ..have for breaking a cycle of war whose roots peace. Truman, a long- fought in Europe and in went back 300 years. A Marshall Plan time Legionnaire from the two world wars. Their instrument, the Committee of Euro- Missouri, realized they battles either saved or lib- pean Economic Cooperation, was the needed veterans' sup- erated the people of Eu- first case of European states uniting for port. They called on The rope from tyranny." a common good, rather than against a

American Legion, whose The point was clear to common enemy. In it began the part- support of the Marshall the committee: The Amer- nership that became the European Plan grew from three for- ican Legion was a grass- Union. As Europe came to see that eign policy goals: To block communist roots organization whose members more was to be gained through cooper- expansion, to prevent World War III knew war's violence and saw the Mar- ation, the continent was set on a path and to rehabilitate Europe. shall Plan as insurance against another, that would make war unthinkable. In his 1948 testimony to Congress, more terrible war. In March 1948, Con- Thanks to the Marshall Plan, West- National Commander James O'Neil re- gress overwhelmingly agreed and Tru- em Europe joined the United States in stated the position adopted by the Le- man signed the European Recovery the post-war recovery, and its people gion at its 29th National Convention: Plan on April 3. enjoyed levels of prosperity and free- "This is a crucial hour in foreign The Marshall Plan remains the best dom few had imagined possible. As relations of the United States. The in- example of foreign aid success. Win- their economies grew, Europeans ternational situation calls for steadi- ston Churchill called it "the most un- bought both American goods and ness, firmness and far-reaching deci- sordid act in history." Both the political American ideals of democracy. sions... The only way to prevent wars goal of containing communism and the Achievement of the political goals in a critical situation such as exists in economic goal of restoring Europe indicates Marshall intuitively under-

• DECEMBER 1998 • THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE jg FAUEH mm Lenin's monument is loaded onto a truck after being toppled in Lithuania.

strive to remain free along- If the people of Eastern Europe and Russia of men who side those of Americans." cannot see that they are better under Fifty years ago, we extended a help- ing hand, the Marshall Plan, to the peo- democracy than under communism, they ple of war-ravaged Western Europe. We helped feed and clothe them; we gave will call for a return to communism. them a sense of purpose and a future. And led by The American Legion, we imparted to them the ideal that freedom stood what has since been called the low Europeans ensure their new democ- hates a wall, and, if given a chance, it Democratic Peace Proposition, which racies meet basic needs for political and will pierce an iron curtain of despair. postulates that democracies do not economic reform. Can our obligation be any less today? fight each other. Marshall also under- The French statesman Talleyrand stood that trade expansion favors was quoted as telling Marshal Ney peace. Mutually beneficial trade gives (Napoleon's premier marshall) "When each country a stake in the success of my profession fails, yours has to come others. These two effects exert a to the rescue." Surely, war is too costly greater pacifying influence than any to let politicians and diplomats fail. imaginable army of occupation. When few American leaders look be- yond our borders. The American Le- Consider the end of the Cold War. As gion must lead in developing policies did Nazism, communism left whole to prevent wars and complete the Cold regions devastated. The question War victory. NATO's expansion pro- now is whether those regions should be vides the security to build democratic left to their own devices. Leading coun- states; it will take a Marshall Plan to en- tries, including the United States, must sure political and economic stability. realize that recovery requires action of In his history of The American Le- the type, if not of the magnitude, of the gion, Raymond Moley noted, "It is to

Marshall Plan in rebuilding economies the Legion's enduring credit that it has and infrastructure. Unlike the cradle exercised through years of alarm, days of the Marshall Plan, the United provocation and stress a steady leader- MAN FROM MISSOURI President Truman, a long-time Legion States will not have to go it alone. States ship in meeting the challenge this na- member, called on veterans to support such as Germany, once the beneficiary tion faces... It has done this when it was the Marshall Plan. of American generosity, are helping fel- unpopular to do so, placing the interests

• • 3/| THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE DECEMBER 1998 RESTAURANT STYLE ONION BLOSSOMS ENJOY GOLDEN BROWN ONION BLOSSOMS IN JUST MINUTES!

Why Pay $19.95? NOW ONLY $4.95 FREE MOUTHWATERING QUICK RECIPES I 1 ITS FAST, EASY, & FUN TO DO! LAKESIDE PRODUCTS, Dept. M991 3038 N.W. 25 Avenue, Pompano Beach, FL 33069 Now enjoy great-tasting onion blossoms in the 30 Day Money Back Guarantee convenience of your liome. They are fast and One Onion Blossom Cutter only $4.95 easy to do. All you do is slice the top off the plus $2.50 shipping and handling. onion, put it into our onion blossom cutter, and Two Onion Blossom Cutters $8.95 plus $4.00 slice for a perfectly cut onion every time. Divides onions into 18 even petals, leaving base uncut. Name Simply add batter and fry until golden brown. Presto! You're ready for delicious, mouth-water- Address, ing onion blossoms cooked to perfection. City Includes easy-to-follow, quick recipes. Dishwasher safe. j_State'^^^ Zip miihuiiiinjimiMj

By Joe StutevflleJ

N CAPITOL HILL there's no shortage of rhetoric, but when you're talking about veterans' pro- grams, there are certain words or labels a lawmaker should never bring up—especially when talking to a crowded room of Legionnaires. Rep. John Cooksey of Louisiana found that out when he described appropriated veterans' health-care benefits as a "handout" during straijlt on National Commander Butch Miller's testimony before the House and Senate Veterans' Affairs committees, Oct. 6. That one word drew grum- bling from many of the 200-plus Legion leaders and Auxiliary members in the hearing room. Cooksey was indirectly referring to project- ed VA money "saved" from a slick congres-

REP. JOHN GOOKSEV S comment that recent appropria- tions for veterans' programs were a "handout" drew a fast response from the commander, who said: "The only handout veterans... have ever asked for is a hand from their buddies when they get knoclced down."

to have good roads in this country, Con- gressman, we just want to make sure that when veterans drive on these good roads to VA medical centers—some of them hun- dreds of miles from their homes—that they receive good and timely health care," Miller said, drawing loud applause from Legion family members and some of the congressmen. sional move this summer that diverted an esti- Rep. Bob Filner, Democrat from California, mated $17 billion to improve national roads also clearly was irritated with Cooksey's and transportation systems. choice of words. "I'm appalled to hear any- Cooksey, a Republican who serves on the thing that describes any kind of veterans' bene- House Veterans' Affairs committee, said that fits as a handout," he said. "These benefits about $1.6 billion was earmarked to improve have been earned, and often at a high price." VA medical services. And his remarks drew a The tobacco issue flared earlier this year stinging, speedy rebuke from Miller and some when Congress repealed a 1993 VA General of the lawmaker's colleagues. Counsel ruling that held the VA should pay "The only handout veterans of this country compensation and provide health care to veter- have ever asked for is a hand from their bud- ans who became addicted to tobacco in the mil- dies when they get knocked down," Miller said, itary and who later developed related illnesses referring to the assistance given by The Ameri- can Legion to veterans seeking compensation. Joe Stuteville' s profile on National Comman- "The American Legion appreciates the need der Butch Miller appeared in the October issue.

• • 3(j THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE DECEMBER 1998 Macular Deaeneratioo

The VideoEye! power magnification system combines simplicity and versatility to help people with low vision continue reading and using their eyes for everyday tasks. A self-focusing viewing head on a precision arm moves over anything you want to see. Crisp images are displayed in full color on a high-resolution monitor magnified up to 25 times bigger. Clipping nails Prescription bottles

Try it at home for 30 days!

Shaving, makeup Knitting, hand work

Q Please send free brochure and video 30 day money-back guarantee Name Address. For information or to order call City State. Zip-

Phone ( )_ 1-800-416-0758 VideoEye Corp. Dept TL 683 N. Five IVIile Road www.videoeyecorp.com Boise, ID 83713 With the future of veterans' needs in mind, Miller reminded lawmakers that funding of VA health care continues to be the most criti- cal issue at hand. In recent years, the Legion has made, and continues to make, strong pitch- es for new ways to generate money streams for the VA; however, the Legion is concerned that veterans' health care is still budget-driven rather than needs-driven. "VA is creating all of the necessary compo- nents needed to reduce significantly the level of care provided [to veterans], while dramati- cally downsizing the department's health-care network," Miller said. "Although the con- ON THE HILL Miller, joined by National Legislative Commission Chairman Charles Pess VA (left), mal(es a strong pitch for the Gl Bill of Health. tinues to emulate managed-care medicine, there is one significant difference between the VA and other managed-care organizations: and conditions. There is very little revenue generated from A Pitch For 2000 "For generations, the use of non-appropriated revenue sources." tobacco products by service The solution? The Legion's landmark GI BELOW is a breakdown of what members was very much a part Bill of Health would expand access and guar- The American Legion proposes of the military cuhure," Miller antee a full range of medical care to veterans for VA's budget in Fiscal Year said. "For Congress to make and their dependents. Under this plan, military 2000, which begins Oct. 1, 1999: this critical decision without the retirees and their families also would be Area Amount benefit of congressional hear- served. Medical Care $19.5 billion ings, involving the veterans' "At the time of enrollment, veterans and Construction community, deeply concerns their dependents could identify a funding Major $200 million the Legion." source to finance their treatment, whether it's Minor $200 million Miller, who retired a year ago private insurance. Medicare or Medicaid," State Veterans' from his top-level position in the Miller said. "Service-connected veterans and Home Programs $100 million VA's General Counsel office, other priority veterans could identify the VA as described the counsel's 1993 the source." Medical, Prosthetic criteria for eligibility as "fair The GI Bill of Health would create a net- Research $335 million and equitable," given that the work of federal, state and private health-care National approval rate for tobacco-related providers in partnership with the medical Cemetery System $105 million claims is less than 8 percent. industry. Veterans Benefits "Veterans who now become To that end, the Legion supports the devel- Administration $877 million ill or die from tobacco-related opment of a GI Bill of Rights for the 21st (general operating expenses; illnesses are being unfairly Century. This covenant. Miller explained, includes additional full-time penalized for the sake of poli- should focus on health care and benefit employees and pension sen/ice) tics and budgetary expediency," claims, the home-loan guaranty program. the commander said. "The Small Business Administration loans, educa-

American Legion, I can assure you, is commit- tion benefits, burial benefits and transition ted to right the injustice that has been done to assistance programs. veterans, their families and their survivors." Miller also focused on the obstacles faced The Legion further proposes the federal by ailing veterans who suffer from Gulf War government has a responsibility to pursue a Illnesses. He chided the government for drag- comprehensive settlement with tobacco com- ging its feet on providing access to health care panies to secure the funds to allow the VA to for Gulf veterans suffering from GWI. He said cover the costs of medical care, compensation that a legislative proposal. House Resolution and survivors' benefits for disability and 3980, would help overcome barriers to care deaths related to tobacco use. and would enable the VA to "effectively treat" Congress must bear the blame for turning illnesses. The bill, if enacted, will create a its back on veterans with tobacco claims. National Center on War-Related Illnesses and "Let's be honest," said Rep. Ciro Rodriguez, a implement policies before they are needed by Texas Democrat. "We haven't done right by veterans of future wars. veterans, and part of the responsibility of Con- The commander's testimony capped an gress is to make good on the promise to help intense three-day American Legion summit in

veterans with their medical needs. I urge The a city consumed by presidential impeachment American Legion to continue to confront us hearings and Congress' last-minute shuffling to when we haven't done our jobs." forge a national budget.

• • 311 THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE DECEMBER 1998 "Four servings of fruits and vegetables every day? Not at my house...

MULTI-VITAMIN/MINERAL Wouldn't it be wonderful if we could And as far as prices go—well, you've always eat all the fruits and vegetables we VEGETARIAN FORMULA just seen a sample of how value-con - U.S. Department of should? The Over 100 Food Source Nutrients: scious this company is. We've always Agriculture says that's a minimum of 2-4 Puritan's Pride prod- Essential vitamins, minerai, enzymes, been delighted with servings of fruits and 3-5 servings of veg- ucts. I think you will be, too. amino acids, lierbs, essential oils and etables—every day. other naturally occuring food factors. "What's your interest? Vitamins? Over "And, who could argue? But is that a real- the counter drugs that let you save for a istic expectation? Not at my house! So change? Health aids? Natural beauty care what to do if we can't enjoy the crunch of products? There's so much here for every a carrot or the tang of a tomato? We sup- member of the family. Over 750 vita- plement our meals with great new Green mins, minerals, food supplements, cos- Source! metics, and much, much more. "OUR BUSY LIFESTYLE DEMANDS PROPER NUTRITION... "SO SEND FOR YOUR NEW Yes, even though we're on the go, we still GREEN SOURCE RIGHT NOWAND do get our daily requirement of vitamins GET TO KNOW PURITAN'S PRIDE! and minerals. All that—and more—from Their fascinating free catalog will open up Green Source. a whole new world: The best and newest products nutritional science has to offer. I "It's new. unique multi-vitamin formu- A check it from cover to cover every time it la packed with more than 100 food source arrives! nutrients. 100% Vegetarian. A potent concentrated formula in easy-to-take "By the way, Puritan's Pride is a manu- tablet form. There isn't room to list facturer. Not a wholesaler. Not a retail- everything it contains. But take Green er. By selling directly to you and me, Source and you'll be getting a powerful prices are kept really low. But their qual- nutritional lift. ity —I've always found—couldn't be higher. "And you can try Green Source—just as I did—at a really remarkable introductory "Shopping by mail is fast and conve- price. The 60-tablet bottle sells for REGULAR PRICE: nient. And you can expect friendly, $17.70. But it's yours for just $1.95! thoughtful service, too. Please use the NOW ONLY $^95 coupon to send for Green Source and "WHY SUCHAN APPEALING your free Puritan's Pride catalog—right BARGAIN? FOR THIS FULL SIZE now!" Because the folks at Puritan's Pride want to 60 TABLET BOTTLE. 1 introduce you to their exceptional vitamins PURITAN'S PRIDE and health and beauty aids. JUST TO INTRODUCE YOU TO Dept. EALZCF, 1233 Montauk Highway

GREEN SOURCE PO Box 9009, Oakdale, NY 1 1769-9009 "You won't find a larger selection anywhere.

PURITAN'S PRIDE For Fast Action Phone:1-800-645 -1030 I Dept EALZCF Fax-' 1-516-471-5693 1 233 Montauk Highway, PO Box 9009 Charge Amex Yours^^ This Offer Ends' Oakdale, NY 1 1 769-9009 my Mastercard Visa Card Discover Card April 30, 1999 Please rush me my 60 tablet

; bottle of Green Source ($1 .95) Freem^ wait. Don't Check enclosed The latest Complete this

Puritan's Pride coupon. Cut on ,

catalog. Over 100 dotted lines and , quality pages of il mail it today! , products at big savings! ADDRESS.

CITY SmitD 01 1110118 BI6III fniM iDsmi?

Rep. Allen BoydJr. (R—Florida) Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas)

Earlier this year, I joined \mW mm On May 6, after my sev- nine of my House col- II L ^ enth trip to the Balkans, I leagues on a trip to Bosnia I r |l introduced legislation to —Herzegovina. I received I m U curtail the commitment of briefings regarding America's pres- HI U.S. ground forces there. What I saw was ence in that region, but I still had a well-trained, professional force capable questions about whether the United of performing any mission assigned. But

States should continue to participate I also saw a force with no clear direction in peacekeeping efforts in the region. I and no defined exit strategy. All of us have seen photographs of the destruction that Bosnia was to be a temporary mission—^not a permanent conflict has wrought. It is difficult to imagine how a place assignment. When Congress narrowly voted to support this that hosted the Winter Olympics just 14 years ago could be mission in 1995, 1 voted against it because I was afraid this reduced to a site of burned homes, crumbling streets and would happen. My reservations mmed out to be justified. charred remains of businesses. This was sold to Congress as a one-year commitment. That

Even more difficult to understand is that the sentiments deadline was missed, and the next deadline was missed as which led to this are still alive in the minds of people in well. It is clear we are involved in an ongoing mission with this region. During a visit to a resettlement camp, the dele- no end in sight. It is time to set a schedule and begin an gation met with both Bosnians and Serbs. In 15 minutes, a orderly, honorable withdrawal of U.S. ground forces. seemingly positive dialogue turned into a shouting match. Our former secretary of defense and the former chairman These arguments are not merely based on war-time dis- of the Joint Chiefs of Staff both told Congress before the putes, but are bom of an ethnic and religious rivalry that original deployment that an exit strategy is important if we has existed for hundreds of years and, today, still perme- are going to avoid "mission creep." Mission creep means our ates every facet of life in this region. The potential for con- forces are asked to undertake inappropriate tasks. Increasing- flict weighs heavily. ly, our forces in Bosnia are carrying out police activities.

To counter this threat, the United States has been partici- This is not fair to our soldiers, and it is not fair to the pating in peacekeeping efforts. The basic mission is to pre- American people. U.S. forces in Bosnia have accompUshed vent further armed conflict in Bosnia. But during my trip, I the military mission assigned them. We all owe them a debt began to understand our greater purpose: to prevent war. of gratitude for accomplishing this with no combat loss of During the war, thousands fled their homeland. Should life to any American. But we are losing trained men and war retum to Bosnia, the presence of refugees throughout women because year after year they're being asked to leave Europe, combined with the economic and financial interests their families, too often for these non-traditional operations. that European nations and America have vested in this We are wearing out our troops on missions that reduce readi- region, could cause this conflict to spread. ness and cost money that should go toward modernization. Our stake in this—and the need for our nation to assist Gradually, we are putting ourselves—and rest of the in preventing another war—has become clear. The United world—in peril. The United States can respond in situations States is the only superpower, and with that comes a where our allies cannot or will not. We cannot allow that responsibility to protect international peace. Americans capability to be eroded. gave their lives for this peace; we owe it to those who died, The bill I introduced sets a timetable for reducing the level and to their children, to protect it. of U.S. troops, 8,500 of whom are deployed in Bosnia and Our presence has been key. While resettling displaced Herzegovina today. Our European aUies could gradually take Bosnians and Serbs in their home territories is challenging, over those responsibilities. In late April, Congress approved the people have hope that war is over. Residents are begin- an additional $478.8 million to sustain our forces in Bosnia. ning to rebuild, refugees are returning home, and business- Of course we are going to provide our troops with the support es are making a comeback. Our soldiers are in Bosnia they need to do the job—but the money must come from because U.S. cidzens have a somewhere. Right now it is stake in whether democracy coming out of future readi- succeeds or fails. We must Your Opinions Count, Too. ness, missile defense and recognize that failure is tan- Senators and representatives are interested in con- modernization. We are bor- tamount to war. stituent viewpoints. You may express your views by rowing from the future to pay U.S. Senate, Wash- Our troops in Bosnia are writing The IHonorable (name), for a mission others could ington, DC 20510, or The Honorable (name), l^ouse under complete U.S. control perform. This is unwise and of Representatives, Washington, DC 20515. You may and command, and they imprudent. And in the long call the U.S. Senate at (202) 224-3121; the House at will serve our have been deployed for a (202) 225-3121. run, this not worthy cause. national interests.

40 • THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 1998 Why Pay 59.95? Now Only $29.95

ADJUSTABLE VELCRO CLOSURES 8 PI_ECE SET! The Ancient Chinese are now being recognized DEER CREEKl^RODUCTslNc'Dep" M993 by modern medicine. The Chinese have used the 3038 N.W. 25 Avenue, Pompano Beach, FL 33069 power of magnets to help relieve various ail- 30 Day Money Back Guarantee ments, muscle pain, joint soreness, poor circula- tion, headaches, and much more. They conform One Magnetic 8-Pc. Set only $29.95 to your body's contour. Can be comfortably worn plus $4.50 shipping and handling. under your clothing without being noticed. Use it Two Magnetic 8-Pc. Sets only $58.95 plus $8.00 throughout your busy day or simply while watch- ing TV. You get a back belt with 16 strategically Name placed magnets and velcro closures, three wrap- Address around belts of different sizes to securely hold two large disks having 5 sewn-in magnets each, City_ and 2 smaller disks containing one magnet each. Set of 8 in all. State _Zip_ I : Employment Bill Works Well for Vets

door of opportunity has just swung open for veter- most non-political federal positions, including those at the ans seeking federal jobs or protection from reduc- General Accounting Office and in the legislative and judicial BHEtions in force, thanks to legislation passed in the wan- branches of government. ing hours of the 1 05th Congress. Currently, only the executive branch uses the veterans' The House of Representatives on Oct. 8 cleared preference guidelines. legislation to expand veterans' preference in federal The need for the legislation was obvious. The American employment. The bill, S 1021, was awaiting the Legion contends. When a federal job opens, the relevant hiring president's signature as this issue went to press. office is sent a list of qualified applicants. The GAO found that On the House side, a similar measure, H 240, sponsored 71 percent of the referral lists were returned without a hire by Rep. John Mica, R-Fla., was introduced nearly two years when a veteran's name was at the top. ago. Last April, the bill was referred to the Senate, where it "By contrast," Hagel adds, "only 51 percent of nonveterans was sponsored by Senators Chuck Hagel, R-Neb., and Max lists are returned. Not only are veterans not getting the prefer-

Cleland, D-Ga. The bill clarifies a policy that provides assis- ence that statutes require, but all too often veterans are less tance mostly to combat and disabled veterans in obtaining likely than other applicants to be hired for a federal job." and keeping federal employment. The American Legion has testified on behalf of the veter-

"While it doesn't guarantee anyone a job, this legislation ans' preference legislation several times over the last two does allow those who have served in uniform to have their years. In fact, the Legion was the architect of 1944 veterans' service recognized as they are considered along with others employment preference legislation intended to help service when applying for federal jobs," says Hagel, a Vietnam War members returning from World War II. veteran. "This is a major victory for the veterans' community,"

The bill adds points to a veteran's civil-service examination says National Commander Butch Miller. "This legislation and gives a veteran more time to learn a new job when a vet- was necessary to help America's most deserving and self- eran-held federal job is eliminated. It also extends the policy to sacrificing citizens."

New Defense Agency telliDg Computers Realy

The reality is chilling enough: At Key issues in preparing the VA's com- little progress on compensation and pen- least 25 countries now have or are sion software applications. developing nuclear, biological or puters for the "Y2K" problems anticipated chemical weapons and the means to in 2000 remain unresolved, says a recent The report further finds the VHA has deliver them. In response, the Depart- General Accounting Office report. assessed and renovated many of its

ment of Defense has established the Many computer systems use only the information systems. However, it still

Defense Threat Reduction Agency. last two digits of dates and, as a result, needs to make its systems compatible "We must confront these threats in could interpret the end of the century as with systems in VA medical facilities, places like before they Baghdad come "1900" rather than "2000." Observers such as heating, ventilating, air condi- to our shores," says Defense Secre- predict that if computer systems and net- tioning and medical devices, all of which tary William Cohen. The DTRA com- works aren't corrected for this change, it could be affected in a Y2K crisis. GAO prises more than 2,000 employees could create massive problems in pro- says there could be disruptions in from Cohen's office, the Defense Technology Security Administration, cessing veterans' disability compensation patient care at VA medical facilities if the Defense Special Weapons Agency and pension checks. computer systems are not upgraded in and the On-Site Inspection Agency. The GAO report says the VA's Veter- time. DTRA is responsible for technology ans Benefits Administration lags in reno- The VA, however, insists that it's on security, cooperative threat-reduction vating the software which processes ben- schedule to meet the Y2K crisis. The programs, arms control treaty moni- efits and updates benefit information. The department reports it has renovated 94 toring, on-site inspection and force report further claims the Veterans Health percent of the more than 300 applications protection against the threat of Administration has yet to gauge its readi- it uses to support compensation, pen- weapons of mass destruction. It will ness forY2K. sions and medical information. Further, be headquartered near Dulles Interna- The GAO recommends the secretary VA officials say, they have implemented tional Airport in the Washington, D.C., applications and antici- area. of Veterans Affairs, with the support of 61 percent of the "The American Legion believes VBA and VHA officials, establish "busi- pate the process will be complete by establishment of the DTRA holds the ness continuity" and contingency plans to spring 1999. possibility for improved preparedness meet possible Y2K disruptions. "Veterans can rest assured that the and better addresses terrorist threats The VBA reportedly has completed VA will provide timely benefit payments the United States and its allies face renovating two critical missions—voca- and high quality health care without around the globe," says Allen L. Titus, tional rehabilitation and insurance—and interruption," says Harold Gracey, acting chairman of the Legion's National is partially complete on other systems. assistant secretary of the VA's Office Security Commission. But the GAO reports the VBA has made of Information.

42 • THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 1998 "

There are times when everyone would like a little extra volume to enhance their hearing! 30-Day Money Back Guarantee Uses Model #31 2 Battery Single Unit Only $149.95

It's So Small It's Invisible I Almost In the Ear,.. MaxiSoundM Personal Sound Amplifier uses sophisticated micro-miniaturized circuitry to provide affordable, in-the-ear sound amplification

by Martin Howard Max. Output 116dB "After seeing your ad in the news- For the last couple of years, I've con- Avg. Output llldB paper, I decided to take a chance stantly had to ask people to repeat Peak Gain 43dB on your product. Imagine my sur- what they just said to me... I've turned Avg. Gain 35dB prise when Ifirst tried your sound loud that up the volume on the TV so Frequence Range amplification product and it everyone in the house complains... 600-5900 worked great. The amplification and my wife and children tell me that Harmonic Distortion: seemed to balance out the fear- I'm speaking too loud. 500Hz <10% ing between my left and right ear. at 800Hz <10% I completely satisifed with both Naturally, I've denied everything. I am at leOOhz <10% the sound quality and amplifica- didn't want to admit I knew that I was tion of your MaxiSound product. having a slight hearing problem. I was Dr. George T. Stallings hoping it would go away, all by itself, without doing anything about it! But, ment tips, 4 batteries, extra cleaning deep down inside, I knew I needed a Amplification: tool and detailed care instructions. little extra help in the hearing depart- ultra-sophisticated micro-miniaturized Your satisfaction is guaranteed or ment, and lately, I needed this extra help more and more. circuitry return for a full refund of purchase Optional Extended price (less P&H). Because we work My wife was so tired of me asking Warranty Available her to either speak louder or repeat directly with the primary source, you everything she said. We were having can purchase a pair (left and right) them. They are ideal for amplification arguments over my hearing. Finally, MaxISounds for less than one of our of faint sounds like distant lectures competitor's units. That's guaranteed. she insisted that I get some help. She or outdoor wildlife. Each amplifier told me to buy a hearing aid. features an individual on/off and vol- COMPARE FOR YOURSELF Sure, just what I need. A bulky, ugly, ume control. Its one-size-fits-all is ill-fitting and heavy hearing aid sitting SEE THE DIFFERENCE comfortable and comes with a replace- behind my ear. And, the darn thing will able soft rubber tip, 300 hour battery, probably rub the skin off my ear too! Most Crystal MAXI cleaning tool, storage pouch and in- Brands Ear SOUND She laughed at me. No, it's nothing structions. MaxiSound is made in the Required fitting Yes No NO like that - science and technology have USA, and is comparable to other Required testing Yes No NO revolutionized the audio industry. The sound enhancement systems that re- Battery life 160 hr 320 hr 300hr product I'm talking about is called Impact resistance Average Excellent Excellent tail for up to $1 000.00. Separate main- MaxiSound. It's a personal amplifier Feedback Frequent Limited Limited tenance kit includes: 4 replace- and is very different from the hearing Telephone use Yes Yes Excellent aids you are describing. 'Nol sold for use as a medical device. Consult a hearing specialist Retail price: each $1000. $299.95 $149.95 if you have a serious hearing problem. Individual experiences MaxiSound is so small and com- may vary depending on severity of hearing loss. pair $2000. $599.90 $279.95 pact that it fits inside the ear canal WILLOWS GS, Inc. Dept. MSA-538 179 Post Rd West, Westport CT 06880 (it's almost invisible). There are no j wires, no behind the ear devices Please RUSH me by First Class Priority Charge: VISA MasterCard and I I Mail the guaranteed MaxiSouncP^ it doesn't cost a fortune. Not only that, Discover Exp Date I Amplifier(s) ordered below: but its super sensitive circuitry is de- I Acct signed to maximize your natural abil- ONE MaxiSound only $149.95 I ity to hear sounds*. MaxiSound can Indicate Left or Right Ear Signature, I make speech louder, and the sound SAVE! Order a Pair for $279.95 Name is crystal clear, pure and natural. I Maintenance Kit $20.00 MaxiSound \Norked so well for me 1 2 Model #31 2 Batteries - $1 0.00 Address. I that I am now marketing them direct Add $10.00 for shipping, tiandling I City ' to the consumer. And, I know that and insurance per order they'll work for you too! It's great to , Enclosed is check/M.O. for $ State -Zip, be able to hear the TV clearly again. Let me tell you a little more about CHARGE ORDERS CALL 1-800-770-1155 TOLL FREE Tennessee Cemetery Pavilion Dedicated

FTER nine years and treasurer. He was a a half-million donat- member of the ed dollars, evidence Chattanooga Area that Tennesseans Veterans' Council, honor sacrifices of an organization of U.S. veterans graces the gate- 33 veterans groups, way to the graves of thou- where the idea for sands who, since 1882, have the pavilion origi- been laid to rest in the Nation- nated. al Cemetery near Chat- One day Levi re- tanooga. ceived a phone call Thanks to the work of lo- from a committee cal Legionnaires, a pavilion in member, who had honor of the men and women attended a meeting of the five armed services was he had missed. dedicated and completed at "He said, 'since the cemetery on Veterans Day you weren't there 1997. The stone and concrete you were elected Dignitaries, including then-Gov, Don Sundquist of Tennessee and Lt. Gen. Jotin M. Piclder (standing at podium) we e on liand for tiie culmination of Armed Services Pavilion chairman,' " Levi re- years of worl(—tlie dedication of the Armed Pavilion at the National Ceme- historic stands near the ceme- members. tery in Cliattanooga. tery's Peace Arch at the origi- "What do 1 have nal south entrance. to do?" Levi asked.

Before the pavilion was "Not much," came the reply, word out about the need for fi- be placed atop each. built, funerals often were de- "You only have to raise about nancial help. An anonymous Appropriately, Levi re- layed because the cemetery $150,000 and build a pavil- citizen of Chattanooga came turned to the Pavilion this lacked an appropriate shelter ion." through with a $300,000 do- Veterans Day, where he re- from rain. The pavilion, fea- "I didn't know how to do nation, but the committee re- ceived the Legion of Merit, turing a slate roof, allows cer- that." Levi recalls, but the re- mained $200,000 short of be- one of the highest peacetime emonies to go on without tired Army National Guard ing able to do the job right. honors the Army can bestow. threat from inclement weather brigadier general learned fast. Because Hamilton County, The award recognizes Levi's and provides a powerful back- Those on the committee to Tenn., receives about $70,000 1986 work as 196th Field Ar- drop for patriotic ceremonies. build the pavilion included a year in hotel and motel taxes tillery Brigade commander,

It can accommodate as many Chattanooga Legionnaires from cemetery visitors, coun- helping South Carolina and as 150 people. Bob Lahiere, Post 14, chair- ty commissioners were able to Tennessee National Guards- Work began in 1989 to man of the Veterans Council promise additional project men develop a training evalu- raise money for the project as and a member of the National funding. Once the promise of ation program. The program, a determined group of Chat- Executive Committee; Harold that money came through, now widely used, was so ef- tanooga Legionnaires went Wilson and Dick Clarke, both plans for the pavilion could be fective that after its imple- about navigating the federal of Post 14; Joe W. Young, Post completed. mentation Guardsmen were bureaucracy to allow their 95, Past Department Comman- But construction couldn't able to out shoot regular community's tribute to be do- der; Ernest Seagle, Post 95, start until a letter of determi- Army units in competitions nated to the National Ceme- and Chattanooga National nation was received by the conducted in Germany. tery Service. Cemetery Administrator IRS, which took some push- He also has a drill hall "People from Washington James H. Wallace m. Post 95. ing by Sen. Fred Thompson's named after him in Chat- said it was a wonderful idea," Levi made three trips to staff in order to assure the tanooga. "It's the only one recalled Carl Levi during the Washington to request money pavilion would be ready by in the state of Tennessee pavilion's dedication. But Na- from Congress for the project. Veterans Day 1997. named for someone still tional Cemetery System offi- "I was always treated very Since the pavilion's dedi- alive," he says. cials weren't sure they could kindly, certainly, but there cation, the city of Chat- He is now applying his accept the gift, because no just weren't any funds," he tanooga has contributed project expertise directly at other community had ever says. "They thanked us and $20,000 for landscaping, flag his local Post. Levi has helped tried to deliver such a project. told us it was a good idea." poles and a small lake in the raise more than $500,000 for Levi, of Chattanooga Post Back home, the afternoon pavilion area. Plans are being a new Post home to be built 14 and vice-chairman of the Chattanooga Free Press and made to build two seven-foot next year in downtown Chat- National Finance Commis- staff writer Michael Finn sup- columns on each side of the tanooga. sion, also serves his city as ported the project and got the pavilion. Bronze eagles will — David Penticuff

• THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 1998 Never Buy Another Titanium Drill Drill Bit Again.' Now put the cooler-running and long- They Last Longer! lasting performance of aerospace-quality

titanium-coated bits to work in your drill. 29 Pc. Set Complete 29-pc, set of titanium coated twist drill bits, in graduated sizes from ONLY 1/16" to 1/2", bore through wood, metal, $j[^97 composites. Includes handy organizer storage case. Satisfaction Guaranteed or Return For Your Money Back

29-PC. TITANIUM DRILL BIT SET

(86472)

PLEASE RUSH ME:. Jrill Bit Set(s)@ $19.97 each

CA residents must add 7% sales tax

Add S/H: $5.95/1 St Set, $2,00/each addnl. Set

Please Print Clearly

Enclosed is my check or money order payable to Ann Trenton. Charge my; VISA MasterCard Discover®/NOVUS»Cards

Made With DURABLE TITANIUM^ Ann Trenton's Value Shoppe TRENTON BUILDING, SHERMAN OAKS, CA 91495

Men's Personalized "ZiP-UP" Leather Wallet BUY 1 "Zip-Up" protection provides you with total security for your money, credit cards and GET 1 private papers. This classic black, genuine FREE leather cover v/allet is made in the USA with a full 3-sided zipper closure that zips OHLY! open for easy access and zips closed for IMP'MOIRnOlf rr full protection! ORDER NOW and we will include your choice of 2 brassed initials for For All Your Valuables prestige personalization! Plus, for every wallet ordered at $12.97, we'll send you a second one ABSOLUTELY FREE!

Satisfaction Guaranteed Or Return For Your Money Bacli

MEN'S ZIP-UP LEATHER WALLET PLEASE RUSH ME: _Men'sWallet(s)@ $12.97 each

PLEASE INDICATE (2) INITIALS FOR EACH WALLET

For each Wallet I order @ SI 2,97, 1 will receive One Wallet FREE (NO S/H ON FREE WALLETS)

CA residents inust add 7% sales tax

Add S/H: $3,95/1 st Wallet, $1,00/each addnl. Wallet

Please Print Clearly TOTAL

JEnclosed is my check or money order payable to Ann Trenton.

Charge my: VISA MasterCard -J Discover ,'NOVUS"'Gards

Card#| i Exp /

3-Sided Zipper Closure A 2 Secret Compartments W PLUS Snap-Shut Coin Compartment Srassed Initials Removable Credit Card, i.D. Case Ann Trenton's Value Shoppe TRENTON BUILDING, SHERMAN OAKS, CA 91495 >r>r >r>r

If you l;now the VETS' five-digit REUNION FACILITIES The Veterans' Connection number assigned to your ship or unit, S TRAVEL VETS' is a service tiiat provides please give it to the operator. The number Call VETS" for the lowest possible military information about reunions, helps is printed after each outfit's name listed in hotel, banquet, tour and travel rates. veterans find old buddies and arranges the magazine. If you don't Icnow the num- (573) 474-4444 travel reunions, and accommodations. ber or do not see your ship or unit listed in

the magazine, VETS*' operators can still FINDING A BUDDY REUIMIOIM INFORMATION provide you outfit information. INSULATED Units Looking tor a buddy or long lost relative? This month there are 147 military enroll in VETS* daily. Finder^;/Seeke!^* service will send you a comput- reunions listed on these pages. In WINTER SUNROOM CONVERTS addition. er listing of names, addieaes and phone numbeni VETS' has information on more than PLANNING A REUNION of people in the United States who have the same TO A SUMMER SCREEN ROOM! 12,000 other reunions. Call weekdays, 8 VETS' will help you arrange your name as the person you're seeking Finderrj/Seek- Central a.m. to 5 p.m.. time. Normal long- outfit's reunion at no cost and save eiTi" guarantees you will get at least one name that distance charges apply. money in the process. Finders/Seelcers' matches, or it will rehind your money. Search tees are 15 Phone: (573) 474-4444 services are included free for VETS* $ per name. Allow four weeks for a reply. Write: Fax: (573) 474-7904 managed reunions. VETS» also will Finders/Seelsers'', P.O. Box maintain reunion coordinators' mailing 901, Columbia, MO 65205; or call (573) lists and unit archives, and handle all 474-4444. MasterCardA'ISA and Discov- reunion publicity needs. er accepted.

ARMY MR FORCE 190lh FA Grp Assn (incI 190-200lh #16281 NIC San Diego: Boot Co 973 (52-53) #20098 191st Gen Hospital (WWII) #24078 NTS Farrajut: all pets. Boots, Ships Co S Hospital - sffn#1r— (lA/liyMtl/WI/Nf) #22909 8lh AF, 2ai Air Div Assn (FL Chapl) #19111 ginal Odin Reunion Grp: V 8lh AF, 398th Bomb Grp (HI lETO. WWII) #16980 PATSUl-2, CASU(F)56 #17751 13lh AF, 4th Recon Sqdrn, 3^4ih Bomb Stidrn (Pacil- Patrol Frigate Assn (all ships) #28325 ic. WWII) #23744 PBM Mariner/PSIVI Marlin Assn #21625 20lh Air Depot Grp. HQ S Repair Scidrns #16908 PC-596 #11652 24lh Combat Mapping Sqdtn (CBI| #11023 445lhAAAj Piney Pt Torpedo Test Range #30118 78lh Fir Sqdrn (\SVVli) #16709 448lh AAA AW Bn (WWII) #1 6631 Rivet Assault Divs 131/132/151/152/153 (VN) 320lh Bomb Gtp, 441/442/443/444th Sqi 483rd AAA AW Bn #157)1 #13117 "' 382nd Bomb Grp, 536/537/538/539th t 502nd AAA Bn #16127 r Assault Divs 91/92/111/112 #23462 (WWII) #16985 522nd Engr Co #23009 UDT-12 (USS Amesbury/Bates) #18431 5061h FlrGrpTlwoJioJima.WIWII) #11200 563rd AAA AW Bn (WWII) #14753 US Submarine Veterans (WWII) #24085 NEW... Full top-to-bottom wall area screens! Mutoc AAFB: B-24/B-29 pilols/ctews (WWII) #16936 601st TD Bn (WWII) #16458 USSABSD-4 (drydock) #18032 -Ploesli reunion (anyone 709lh MP Bn, Co B (Schweinlurl, 57-58) #23332 QWIK' window/screen change system Do-il-yoursell kil. 728lh MPBn (43-presenll #20490 749lh ROB IVyWII) #16246 no contractors needed IVIeels building codes tor snow & wind Santa Ana Army Air Base Wling (WWII) #16719 7741h FA Bn #24075 782nd TanIc Bn (ETO WWII) #15212 loadsD Unigue Climate Control Systemn No extras, comes com- 783rd MPBn (WWII) #15519 787lh Tanli Bn. B Co (WWII) #16700 #17516 plete Buy tactory direct & save America's #1 value since 1 974 795lhAAAAW Bn (WWII) #10426 USS Bates DE-68/APD-47 #18867 803rd EngrAvn Bn #16630 USS Beale DD/DDE-471 #18516 Belle Grove #17495 Send $2 for USS LSD-2 ^^Allk. Color Catalogue, Prices, 1 Engr Avn Sup Poim Co (Eng) # ndOrd MAM Co (WWII) #15831 SENT FIRST CLASS MAIL. 68lhFIS (50-55) #19398 3875lh QM Gas Sup Co, C Co (WWII) #19391 91sl Sirai Recon Wino #20423 Army Counler-lntel Corps Vets (ACICV) #18783 USS Breton CVE-23 #17846 j^PHH^ 314lhTCW/TAW (48-70) #15009 Camp Gordon Johnston Assn #23r" USS Bryant DD-665 #23665 435lh TC Wing "Flamingo Wing ' (WWII/Kotea/VN) Chosin Few (Army Chapl)lapi) #16532 USS Caddo (LST, VN) #23814 , C||„U_ I ? Sun Porch Structures, Inc. Ft Reno, OK (all troops) # USS Charles H Roan DD-B53 #18359 Korean DMZ #23975 USS Chester CA-27 #17509 Box 368, Dept LEG uUllrDrCn' PO 502nd TCG. 605th Hq Sq, 6t)6-e08th AC &W Sqdrns Outpost Harry Survive (Korea, 53) #12791 USS Clarence K Bronson DD-668 (all yrs) #1 DIVISION Westport, CT 06881-0368 #13225 Red Markets/Soc ol ' lese A/B (Team 162) USS Colhoun DD-801 Survivors Assn (VKWII) #1 525th FIS (BItburq i Landsthul, Get) #14792 #13585 USS Dale DD-353 #23580 908lh AC8W Ratfar Sqdrn (Dobbins AFB. Ga, 55-57) Special Forces Assn # 1DD-618/DMS-37 (WWII) #18387 #24084 USS Dvess DD/ODR-880 (68-70) #1^287 4080lh Slral Recon Wing (all sqdrnsj #15190 USS Edward McConnell DE-1043 #23982 Air Weather Assn (inci AAF) #17266 USS Enorce AO-69 #19125 Boiling B-25a Bunch (Boiling AAFB) #21441 CoasI Guard Air Reunion #17055 USS Enlerprise CV-6 Assn (IncI air grps) #30098 RENEWED CONFIDENCE B all pers (48-70) Galloo Island, NY #22959 I NY Coasl Guard Assn #13914 USS Flusser DD-368 Assn #23095 USS General H W Bulner AP-113 #28306 Uromedpro Immediately Corrects Isl Arm d Dl» Assn Old Ironsides" #16195 USS General M B Stewart AP-140 #19234 Isl Inl Div, 161h Rgl Assn #21672 USS General Wm A Mann AP-112/TAP-112 (43-66) 1st Inl Dl» Ofllcers, "Big Red One" (al

7 (inc IMPOTENCE USS Golden City AP-169 (WWII-VN) #12018 USS Hailey DD-556 IWWII, 51-60) #18685 USS Hanson DDR/Db-832 #28390 WITHOUT DRUGS, SURGERY. USS Holt DE-706 #17652 r Div, 5th Rgl, Isl Bn. B Co "B; USS Hugh W Hadley DD-774 #17837 OR IMPLANTS. SAFE & SECURE 3rii Army. 12eihfl USS Intrepid CV/CVA/CVS-11 (43-74) #30083 4lh Army, 1299lh/1300lh Engr (C) Bn, 8 Co (WWII) USS John King DDG-3 #20474 #28331 USS Kankakee AO-39 #18060 r Div Assn #19722 Uromedpro Vacuum Therapy System USS Litlle Rock CL-92/CLG-4/CG-4 (incI Carrier Div 27/Serv Del 1/CVS VMT 8-233 #22493 #14607 LST-477 #23596 #15388 USS Longshaw DD-559 #17764 Pholo So VMD-154 jVN/WWIII #11175 • No Prescription Required h RCT Assn (Korea) #20928 USS LST-742 #23842 FOR ONLY VMF(N) AW Sqdrn (WWII, Korea) #19094 hinl Div, 6lh QIVI Co #19142 USS Maddox DD-731/622/168 #17411 h Ranger Bn Assn (WWII) #24082 •Discreetly Packaged and USS Manatee AO-58 #17656 Mmfk(\r h CavBgl. Med Co (Korea, 50-51) #24077 USS Mauna Loa AE-8 #19284 llh Arm d Div Assn (West chapl) #16033 (EAG-128)# Ith AAA AW Bn (SP)- (all eras) #16066 47 #22645 Ith Arm d Div (fiE USS New DD-818 #14425 AP Transport Reunion Group #18620 ^ If • Buy Direct From I (Babi USS Newport News CA-148 #18470 Augusta Mil Academy (Ft Deliance, VA) i 1 20th Arm d Div, 20lh Tank Bn, A Co #20271 USS NimitzCVN-68 Assn #10149 COrVels Assn (all branches, WWII) #17256 24th Inl Div, 11th FA Bn (Bucldes-Wealherly F USS NitroAE-2/AE-23 #14668 I IVIanufacturer and SAVE!! Korea)#21013 V (incI USS Pennsylvania BB-38/SSBN-735 Assn Mar) 24lh Inl Div, 21sl Rgl, L Co (Korea, 50-51) t Satisfaction Fully Guaranteed 25lhlnl Div (SASCI #19285 Japanese POWs #23767 Inl Assn #24021 Port Lyauley Alumni Assn (MCB-4/8) #17207 26lh Rgl lCL-102 (44-50) #13907 Div, 106lh Rgl, #12927 Vietnam Veterans ot Brevard (FL) #19257 27lhlnl G Co JSS Preble DD-345/DM-20/DLG-15/DDG-46 30lhlnl Div Assn #19319 #21522 VISA & MASTERCARD WELCOME 37lhlnl Div, 136lh FA Bn #19701 USS Princeton CV-37/LPH-5 Vets, Inc. #14689 APB-35/36/39/40:USS USS Providence CL-82/CLG-6 Assn #17609 800-977-4797 Nueces #11135 USS Puget Sound AD-3B #23920 42nd Inl Div, TrI-Slate Chapters (IVIN^ lA, Wl) #23798 ARL-23/24/30/37/38: USS Salyr/Sphlni/ Askari/ USS Quincy CA-39 (36-42) #18546 760-323-8464 43rd Inl Div, 102nd Rgl, Hq/Hq Co (Ger, 50-53) USS Raleigh CL-7 Assn (incI Omaha class cruiser #19620 Indra/Krishna #22978 to: Grdnancemen Assn (IncI Mar) #22617 Or send $79.95 *plus $4.00 S&H 44lh Inl Div, 114lh Rgl #16113 Avn COMCARDIV 6 (66-69) #24083 USSF idova CVE-114 #30095 53rd Inl Rgl Assn #ft4: Flying (46-50) USSF_, . . STOUT MEDICAL SYSTEMS 57lh- Field' IdTlo!Hospital (France, 58-60) #23866 Midshipmen Assn #17513 Gamewardens ol VN (58-73 West Coast Chapt) USS RuSyard Bay CVE-81, VC-77/96 #18336 58lh Bomb Wing Assn, 40lh 444lh 462nd 46 \\ Bomb USS San Francisco CA-38 Assn #17805 P.O. Box 1787, Palm Springs, CA 92263 Grps B #11218 HCU-1 (VN) #14608 USS Sanlee CVE-29 Assn IWWII) #13496 USS Shadwell LSD-15 #13221 Inshore Undersea Warlare Grp "lUWG " (VN) #21574 LCI Nat Assn #21615 USS Smalley DD-565 (WWII, Korea) #17959 LST-1014 #20302 USS SperryAS-1 2 (42-821 #11866 LST-1059 #18329 USS Sfanlv DD-478 (WWllj #11523 LST-339 #11194 USS Slockliam DD-683 (WWII, Korea) #17508 Sturtevant DE/DER-239 (51-58) #22593 #23858 LST-344/51 5/848 (USS Blanco Cly, Parris, Jerome USS USS Suamico AO-49 #28307 78lh Ord Depot Co (Korea 50-52) #16374 USS Thompson DD-627/DMS-38 #17569 —1 Engr Const Bn (Korea 50-51) #19343 --I1 Inl Div, Sig Co WWII) #19380 LST-477 #23595 i Inl Di». 32! Igl. Hq Co (WWII) #16490 LST-751 (PTO 44-46) #11612 1 Inl Div Assn (Wl«WII)>16560 Rgl, (Co #16336 LST-75/LST-285 #20416 LST-854 USS Kemper Co (VN) #30146 LST-980 #19591 titingnam, we Recon #22400 LST-909 #19225 lOSIhSlaK MCB-2 (50-56) #14671 USS William M #22233 107lh Engr Rgl USS Wilson DD-4 112lh Cav Rol (Midwest rejion) #15231 113lh Cav (tecon Mech Grp 113lh/12Slh Sqdrns) USS Wyman DE-; SIGr^ATURE #30040 VB-86 #17981 138lh/198lh/452n(l FA Bn Assn #10370 rWA) #23193 YRBMS 150lh Engr Bn Assn (WWII) #16131 ( Member of Better Business Bureau (C)

THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 1998 HEALTHY LIVING MADE EASY! Feel Better Naturally! COLON HE G/X\[L0[IiCBe

Acts like a powerful # magnetic brush to help ''clear your digestive Why Pay $39.95?

tract. Here's how it The Grapefruit diet plan will let you enjoy

- delicious meals and snacks while slashing » . works all natural Colon ingredients act as a you calorie intake. It's safe, gentle and J effective. At the heart of the Grapefruit 2000 rCfedttSC gentle but powerful plan is the most effective non-prescription "^^"^y scrubber to %*rtM€il(p<; appetite suppressant available. Each little vupSMlfc'^ sweep your upper and easy-to-take time release tablet ' .,,...•>• , lowerintestinaltract.lt V , contains the concentrated fatf ' " ' can break up hard- Now get fast relief from the terrible symp- reducing formula of ened plaque while help- toms of buzzing, hissing, whistling, or other many whole grape- ing to clean your system of harmful bacte- annoying sounds with our all natural home- fruits. Grapefruit ria. This specially formulated 100% natur- medicine. count our opathic You can on Extract - 30 al blend of nutrients and vitamins helps special formulation to deliver fast, tempo- Tablets & Diet you to feel healthier and more energetic, rary relief without harmful side effects. Plan ONLY and to look and feel younger. Safe to use. Imagine! Now you can enjoy the sound of $6.55 60 Tablets Easy-to-take capsules. silence. Comes in easy-to-take, small pills. 2 Months Supply Colon Formula 120 Tablets $9.95 Tinnitus - 75 Tablets ONLY $9.95 ONLY $12.95

Indians believe Ginkgo

Biloba is a brain food that improves memory, and increases circulation. Did you know that Ginkgo trees at Binder capsules trap fat and are the oldest living trees?

' help prevent up to 27% of • * * Just 2 Minutes They have actually sur- absorption of ugly body fat. vived over two hundred mil- A Day! Soak up those lion years. The Indians believe that the extra fat calories ' End embarrassment secret of the trees' survival can also be before they have - of revealing brown used to benefit mankind. By consuming the a chance to age spots that make nutritional benefits nature has provided to you look older than increase your t- these trees, we in fact improve our lives. It's weight. All nat- you are. Clear, non-staining formula light- \ safe and gentle to use. There's no danger- patches until they are ural ingredients. ens brown gone ous side effects. Best of all, it's never too to Fat Binder permanently Safe use on hands, arms, late to improve your life. Discover the herbal 100 Capsules face, and neck area of your body. Natural benefits of Ginkgo Biloba. Ginkgo Biloba $9.95 Skin Cream 2 Month Supply $5.95 60 Capsules $8.95 /^20 Caps. $16.95

END ACNE PinPLE TLC, Dept. M995 Helps '^W* 3038 N.W. 25 Ave., Pompano Bch., FL 33069 keep Please send me the following products. All orders skin come with a 30 day money back guarantee. clear of Qty./ Price/ Total f new acne J Colon Formula - 1 20 Tablets $9.95 pimples _l Tinnitus - 75 Tablets LOWERS BAD $9.95 Grapefruit Extract - 30 Tablets $6.95 CHOLESTEROL & Diet Plan 60 Tablets $1 2.95 INCREASES GOOD I J Fat Binder - 100 Capsules $9.95 CHOLESTEROL EUMfNATES MOST ACNE PIMPLES Skin Cream $5.95 Ginkgo Biloba - 60 Capsules $8.95

P*" ' :j At the heart of our product Remarkable new Lotion Soap Cleanser 120 Capsules $16.95 are six molecules of helps to dissolve pimples and blemishes iJ Lotion Soap Cleanser $6.95 Niacin bound to one molecule forever. This uniquely formulated cleanser a No Flush Niacin - 100 Capsules $16.95 actually washes away the problem of of Inositol. The result is that our formula Shipping & Handling charges add $1.50 has all the benefits of Niacin without those embarrassing acne. It breaks through your Total skin's barriers to reach deep down into annoying side effects. This naturally based pores and draw out unsightly blemishes. formula is available without a prescription. Name Now you can discover a glowing, silky, flaw- Widely used in Europe, this easy-to-take Address^^ less complexion. Completely safe and fra- capsule helps eliminate the fatty grance free. Lotion Soap Cleanser cholesterol found in the blood. N.F. Niacin City Generous 4 Oz. ONLY $6.95 100 Capsules 500mg ONLY $16.95 State Zip. LtEIOH SHOPPER

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, BUY FACTORY DIRESTf MANAGEMENT Military Rings AND CIRCULATION (Required by 39 U.S.C. 3685) These amazing rings are

in a different I, Title of Publication: THE AMERICAN P league from I LEGION MAGAZINE. ordinary school-style' 2 Date of filing: September 29. 1998. 3. Frequency of issue: Monthly. rings. Call today for al A. No. of issues published annually: 12. FREE color brochurej b. Annual subscription price: $3.00. 4. Location of known office of publication: 5561 (503)731-9256. Orwrite: | W. 74th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46268-4184 Ideal for shop, boat & vehicle storage Classic Insignia Rings, 435 SE 85th Dept. A, (Marion County). 20 X 30 30 X 44 47 x 100 5. Location of the headquarters of general ^Portland 0^97216^ JCo^ ^1 298| _ j business offices of the publisher; 700 North Penn- 25x32 40x60 50x 120 sylvania St., Indianapolis. Indiana 46204. Inventory vanes 6. addresses of publisher, editor Names and and Factory Direct Toll Free managing editor: Publisher: Dick McNally, 700 N. Pennsylvania St., 800/715-6482 Indianapolis, Indiana 462(34 Editor: Joe P. Smteville, 700 N. Pennsylvania St.. Indianapolis, Indiana 46204 HEARING AIDS • Managing Editor: Robert C. Imler, 700 N. Pennsyl- HAT PINS MEDALS vania St., hidianapolis, Indiana 46204. • FREE COLOR CATALOG uPTo 7. Owner (If owned by a corporation, its name and 60% SAVINGS • 2500+ Military Designs address must be stated and also immediately thereun- This IS all • Army. Navy. Air Force, fvtarines der the names and addresses of stockholders owning you wear' 30-DAY • Call now! Toll-free! or holding I percent or more of total amount of stock. 1-888-223-1 159 If not owned by a corporation, the names and address- TRIAL • Custom pins & patches available. es of the individual owners must be given. If owned Dealer inquiries welcor by a partnership or other unincorporated firm, its name TRY and and address, as well as that of each individual BEFORE must be given. If the publication is published by a nonprofit organization, its name and address must be by Hoover's Mfg., Co. YOU BUY stated.) P.O.I The American Legion. 700 N. Pennsylvania St., GUARANTEED LOWEST PRICES! P.O. Box 1055, Indianapolis, Indiana 46206. I > 8. Known bondholders, mortgages, and other secu- •ALL MAKES & MODELS TERMS ARRANGED

• rity holders owning or holding I percent or more of 30 YRS. EXPERIENCE • ALL MAKE REPAIRS the total amount of bonds, mortgages or other securi- • CUSTOM INSTRUMENT SPECIALISTS • ties; None. 9. For completion by nonprofit organizations FOR FREE INFORMATION CALL: authorized to mail at special rates (Section 423.12, DMM only). The purpose, function, and nonprofit 1-800-323-1212 status of this organization and the exempt status for Federal income tax purposes have not changed dur- IVe're the oldest, biggest and best ing preceding 12 months. IL 61110 10. Extent and nature of circulation; LLOYDS, DEPT. AL BOX 1645, ROCKFORD, Actual Number . D a n cJ C3 E n t o r r I so B . c c> r Average No. of Copies of p Copies Each Sinale Issue Issue During Pul)listied Preceding" Nearest lo

1 2 Month's Flhng Dale A. Total No. of Copies Printed (Net Press Run) 2,712,488 2,733,453 B. Paid Circulation

1 . Sales through dealers and carriers, street vendors and counter sales 5,355 5,396 2. Mail sub- scriptions 2,696,326 2.717.166 C. Total Paid American Legion circulation (Sum of l()Blandl0B2) 2,701,680 2,722.562 D. Free distribution liy mail, cairier or other means. Emblem Sales Samples, compli- mcntai^. and other Ircc copies 3,801 3,830 Catalog E. Frce distribution outside the mail (CaiTiers or other means) 3,000 3,000 Clip Coupon and mail to Address Below F.Total Free distribution (Sum of D and E) 6.801 6.830 G.Total distribution (Sum of C and F) 2,708.481 2,729.392 National Emblem Sales, The American Legion H. Copies not distributed PO. Box 1050, Indianapolis, IN 46206-1050 1 . Office use. left-over, unaccounted, spoiled after printing 4,007 4,061 Send myfree copy of the 1999 Emblem Catalog 2. Returns from news agents None None Name G.Total (Sum ofE.Fl, and 2—should equal net press rim shown in A) 2.712,488 2,733.453 Address

1 1 . I certify that the statements made by me above City State Zip are correct and complete. (Signed) Dick McNally. Publisher

• THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 1998 VIAGRA DIDN'T WORK? IMPOTENCE SOLUTION AND PREVENTION MOVING? WITH COMPLETE VACUUM THERAPY SYSTEM • F.D.A. approved • No prescription required

• Doctors first choice of treatment 338-231 -243e

• Shipped in a plain paci

to your door \ ADDRESS.

• CITY Medicare patients may qualify I for a device with no cost to them I CHECK/ VISA /MASTER CARD / AMEX / DISCOVER BENJON MEDICAL 2241 STATE STREET, SUITE #174 I SIGNATURE northAmerican Offers NEWALBANEY. IN 471S0 Moving Discount SAVE 40% BLADDER LOSS PROTECTION 90% Silver/Low Premium! On Your Next #1 WASHABLE BRIEFS 1964 Kennedy Half dollars Interstate Move! 'oly/cotton.Built in holds 4 ozs. All sizes. Bright Only r . North American Van Lines offers 2 for $29.80 (save $15 00) Men's Ladies - ! ' American Legion members a 40% #2 USE WITH WASHABLE PAD $•525 . f Brilliant discount on interstate moves. Let Reuse 200 times. Holds » Bper coin\ C\/S> ^. ,^ ' ^ Uncirculatea North American, the world's largest 4 ozs. 12" length fits into crotch \ / $8.95 value FREE WITH BRIEF professional mover, transport your 20 Can Mnimlm«200 Cchn Lmt'Ado $3 P 6 H 20 coins) with moving ser- #3 PAPER THIN LINER FITS IN PAD household goods All Major Credit Cards Accepted vices to meet every need and budget. Turns urine into an _IZI Call Toll Free 1-888-260-8111 Odorless GEL. IS [M or send payment to: In addition to saving 40%, you will re-

Discard in gatiage or -Holds 1/2pt : Holds 1 pt ceive up to $50,000 coverage on your flush away in toilet 100-$29.99 i100-$19.99 i household goods at no charge. 9 SUSAN DRIVE • WADING RIVER, NY U792 Shipping $4.00. VISA, MC, or check O.K. NY Slale Residents Add Sales Tax • 30 Day Money Back Guarantee For more information or a free Revelation'^ estimate, call Andy Mento at Quality Movers/North American Van Lines. Box 486. Bridgeport, CT 06601-0486 1-800-524-5533 Toll free 1-800-510-5012

Medals • Miniatures Material. Lasts up to 2 years. t Stops Gujii Ribbons • Badges • Rank Tightens. Cushions. Shrinkage. ALL with just ONE Application! Mounting and Engraving For FREE Brochure Write: PERMA LABORATORIES • Oltii) Patches Flag Cases P O, Box 1 34-L Millershurg. 44654 • Display Cases Ship Photos AUTHENTIC ^ Call Now 1-800-308-0849 LASER KEYCHAIN This bullet shaped keychain is a real Class III laser pointer! Has 5 For FREE 32 Page Color Catalog pattern lenses, which may include a star, smiley tace, IVU, $, and a point Super bright red beam pro|ects up to 1500 tl. Includes bat- tenes, safety instructions and belt loop clip Avoid direct exposure DISCOUNT SALE! Medals of America to eyes Unbelievable low price ot $14 95. 1929AD8 Fairview Rd. • Fountain Inn, SC 29644 HOW TO ORDER: Send $14 95 plus $2 95 for shipping & han- dling, along with your name & address to: A.T.H. Co. Dept. AM. P.O. Box 70, Stroudsburg. PA 18360 OFF 1 Visit us on the Web www.usmedals.com @ | 40/60%

CABLE TV Hake '25 to '100 per hour CONVERTERS witti

Yes, it's really possible by making and selling bright, colorftil Badge-A^Minit btjttons. Buttons are proven money- makers at fairs, flea markets, con- IZl l^oivest I'rlevs ventions, or anywhere people Super Tough Protection For IS 30 Day nonei/ congregate. They're fast and easy Your Boat, RV Or Vehicle Back Guarantee to make vi/ith Badge-A-Minit and With Plenty Of Room Left Over Inexpensive! IS I Year Warranty For A Workshop ' Call for a FREE full color W Dealer Pricing 40 X 60 X 12 catalog or order a MasterCraft Starter Kit for only $29 95 40 X 80 X 14 Steel (IL residents add $1,87 tax),--- 50 X 100 X 16 800-582-0989 Building Systems Shipping is now FREE! call toll free 60 X 150 X 16 Twvo-Piece Combo $99 ,-Minit, Dept, AL1298 P.O, Box 800, LaSalle. CALL FOR (Minimum quantity: 10 lot] 888-781 ADDITIONAL SIZES 1-800-223-4103 -6629i1^6 Tm <>ITY Video M - f »oin - 7pm («JI) jm lOom - 2pi CALL

1998 • AMERICAN LEGION M.AGAZINE • DECEMBER THE /|D 5 ItEIUH SHUPPtH

A Full Size Ceramic Helmet Lamp HealthDri Mounted on Red Oak 2x4 Picture Frame 8 Brass Name Plate. Comes in Garrison, Grunt, Steel Pot & Desert Storm Keviar INCONTINENCE UNDERGARMENTS MILITARY HELMET LAMPS Underwear That Keeps Your Secret! 3245 Lightingbiril Lane Bellingliani. WA 98226

For More Details Call 1-360-758-731 For a dealer near you call: W( iDtipl nisltrCifd and Visi So,.,, no COD'S Fax 1 -360-758-2640

#TransAqua America's Best Flag Case 1

1-800-769-1899 Special Buy! ^$49^5

Completely Washable, No Liners, & Saves

Up To $1,000 a Year Over Disposables! Call Toll-Free 24 Hrs. 1-888-597-8833

REDUCED RISK OF BACK INJURY' 1 WE'VE EOT YOUR MEDALS

All Divisions... all Air Forces... all Wars... • Quality Display Cases • We Also Carry Wings. FEWER SUDDEN STOPS FOR CRACKS! Chevrons. Patches. Insignia $14.95 Add $7.95 Scrambled eggs. • Custom Mounting LONG LASTING, HEAVY DUTY STEEL! Lapel Pins. Regulation additional • We Carry All of ttie and P&H $4.95 (add $1.00 each hat) | Medals, Ribbons Size or Miniatures HEART STRESS! Mail to: Hamburger Hill: Dept. AL-8 Hj REDUCED RISK OF Pieces of History \ P.O. Box 191 Honeoye Falls, NY 14472 I'O Bns7.s')l|.iX,|,i AMI CLEAN WALKWAYS EFFICIENTLY! 716-624-5256 10am-5pm M-F S:;:;"i^:,YssV^^ LIGHT WEIGHT! 30 Page Calalog $2.95

MC - VISA - DISC Tai NVS ResidenI Saulhuhnok. nvmn. miMmdc ma AMEX 8% STAY HEALTHY!

FOR BROCHURE CALL: 1-800-864-4662

Cover it Now Pav Later!' 2 SEAT BIKE ST(?UCTURALLV Drives Like a> CarCar! ENGINEERED Easy to Pedal SHELTERS Multi-Speed Starting At Street Legal 'a $199 1, 2 & 4 Seater^ METAL WATCHBAND CALENDARS • Assemble & Anchor EdSilv Literatuie Free | Used all day, every day Best made in U.S. Easy to read, Sizes ro w, -i .615-822-2737 Ext. 3386 5 60 up to 30 h. Any Length 1 00s of Options: Roll Up Door Lrg. bold print. Fits easily on all men's watctibands. Silver one Henvv Duty brituanized ileel Frame. Durable Cover & Zipper Door RllOnPi/ CAR V,,.^ www.4wc.com/73386

side, gold ottier. Sundays. Holidays in red. 100% metal. 12 M) DAY MONEY B^CK GUA/iANTEE" SHIPPED TO YOUR 0001? k separate calendars in gift wallet START ANY IvIONTH 1 31— set $5.00 ppd: 2 sets $9.50: 3 sets $13.50: 5 sets $21.25. FBEE Great gitt. (In CA. add sales tax). Immed. delivery guaranteed. GIFTS TO GO, DEPT. 34 P.O. BOX 55607, RIVERSIDE, CA 92517-0607 COVERiTk 1-800-559-6175 INSTANT GARAGES The Monolithic Dome

-EQUAL TO ANYTHING I'VE SEEN ON ViCTORV AT SEA- 'FORGOnEN NEW AUTHORS Call for FREE h THE ONLY ACTION-PACKED WORLD WAR II (8001 608-0001 PUBLISH YOUR WORK send $19.95 IS5s/hl I PO Box 479-AL VIDEO EVER PRODUCED ABOUT THE an inlormative video. ALL SUBJECTS CONSIDERED Italy, TX 76851 LITTLE-KNOWN U.S. NAVY ARMED GUARD Fiction, Biography, Religious, Poetry, Children's. They had 710 ships sunl< beneath them. AUTHORS WORLDWIDE ItslVITED. Yet few people ever heard of them, •••• WRITE OR SEND YOUR MANUSCRIPT TO • • • • Winner of a 1997 Telly Award 1 Hour. $27.95 PPD Send check or M.O. MINERVA PRESS 2 OLD BROMPTON ROAD, LONDON SW7 3DQ, ENGLAND ZEMCO: PO Box 19608 Portland, OR 97219

Celebrate July 4th & All Events MEN: BE TALLER!! CARBIDE CANNON CALLER ID FOR YOUR TV Tired of being TV Messenger short' Try our Display incoming calls on quality footwear. Mammutli CDnnun your TV screen. HIDDEN fieight- «ilhUTritioB\,N(.!ll, increasing feature SAVE SIOO'S-EVEN SIOOO'S bang-up lime al spt INSIDE shoe NO evenls. Uses powdered on premium CABLE TV EQUIPMENT. OVERSIZED bide iimmo. Hundreds ol shols Nir lew cents. All nieuil ennsiHktuin wiih HEELS! Will make lapje rugged cast iron wheels. Machined brass mechanism lorciisy loading CABLE DIRECT you 2"-3" TALLER dependina on stvle. OVER 100 STYLES AVAIUBLE. ,iih1 linnS" Authentic lum-ol-cenlury design. Handsome decor when not in 9" CABLE TV Extremely comfortat le. Sizes, 5-12 Widths B-EEE In business use Made in USA lo las! a lilelime. Available in .1 sizes: cannon, $59.95 over 55 years. MO^ EY-BACK GUARANTEE. Call or write for postpaid; 17' cannon, $109.95 postpaid; 25" cannon (shown herel with CONVERTERS The larger the FREE color catalog r.ipid linng and automatic loading, $139.95 postpaid. FILTERS cannon the louder the bang! Carbide ammo, about 100 shots, $7.50; 3- pack $18.00. Spark plugs, 3-pack $2.00. Send check, money order or EL EVATORS® 0 30 DAY FREE TRIAL - 1 YEAR WARRANTY call. Visa, MasterCard accepted by mail or phone. Give card number & RICHLEE St-IDE COMPANY, DEPT, ALSO expiration. Money-back guarantee. Send for FREE CATALOG! Fl . , MODERIV FrTROIVICS P.O. BOX 35 66, FREDERICK, MD 21705 The Cnnestoga Co., Inc., DepI AL, PO Box 405, Bethlehem, PA 18016 IBI i-Baa-9aG-E6E4 IS * A Call 1-800 -987-BANG * * 2609 S.156TH CIRCLE- OMAHA, NE 68130 wHH.bijjhan^-caniuiiis.cDm http://www.modernelectronics.com 1 -800-290-TALL

• THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 1998 nil , ElASSim

SEND ADVERTISING COPY All classified advertising is payable in advance by check or money order. Please RHODES HEARING AND REMIHANCE TO: make remittance payable to "The American Joan Rlzzo FREE CATALOG! Legion Magazine." RATES: $22 per word. Classified Advertising Count street addresses and box numbers as The American Legion Magazine two words; all city, state and zip codes as three c/o Fox Associates, Inc. words. CIRCULATION: 2,700,000 per month. 5th Ave., Suite 11 347 10 DEADLINE: Advertising copy must be received York, 10016 New NY 60 days before cover date of issue desired. All (212) 725-2106 advertisements are accepted at the discretion FAX (212) 779-1928 of the publisher.

SAVE HUNDREDS! INVENTORS 45 DAY TRIAL! SUSPENDER WEARERS! Frustrated with clips that con- EFFECTIVE, IN EXPENSIVE, patenting/I icens stantly slip off your pants? Our suspenders feature patent- 20 years experience. (800)446-4264. hltp://v ed "no-slip clip". Brochure/order (800) 700-4515. inventionhelp.com. ARROWHEADS/INDIAN CRAFTS OF INTEREST TO ALL CATALOG $3. Box 778-V, Colfax, CA 95713-0778. AUTOMOTIVE/ETC.

PHOTOSTORIES, (360) 709-9548.

Free (800) 218-9000 Ext. A-14090 for current listings. BOOKS & MAGAZINES FREE CASH GRANTS! College. Scholarships. Business. DO YOU HAVE A BOOK TO PUBLISH? Established pub- IWedical bills. Never Repay. Toll Free, (800) 218-9000 lisher can help. Contact Pentland Press. Dept.AL (800) Ext. G-14090. 948-2786. CASINO SUPPLIES/PLAYING CARDS WVWV.USIMAGES.COM. Call or Write: RHODES HEARING CATALOG (800) 233-0828. PHOTOS, C-54 #45-513, (303) 526-2131. 201 Rll Ohio St., WVWV.USIMAGES.COM. Brookport, I L 62910 BOY SCOUT PATCHES, (940) 455-2519. PERSONALS 1-800-320-3300 EXTR11 OLD GUITARS, (800) 451-9728. ASIAN WOMEN! Overseas, marriage-minded. Sunshine International Correspondence, Box 5500-HK, Kailua- SWORDS, (800) 798-6167. U.S. MILITARY MEDALS-PINS Kona, HI 96745-5500. (808) 325-7707, http://sunshine- girls.com. WINE & BEER MAKING

WINEMAKERS-BEERMAKERS. Free catalog. Kraus, Box 7850-LM, Independence, MO 64054, (816) 254-0242.

New Customer Offer! CUSTOM NAVY SHIP'S CAPS

•WBOOTSW W 2 for 57,50 3 for 84.95 J". GO ANYWHERE! Pennsylvania Ave., Peckville, PA 18452 max D and EEE" Widths 'SWHEELOmE ("add $2 per pair tor EEE): 7 TA 8 8 /: 9 10 10'/: 11 1? 13

purcfiase price, How '2 & 4 PASSENGER |a7A9-40H Size? EEE? Many? plus? MODELS 11 M S BIJI.CK R BROWN No Money Down. As Low As $130/month. 1i5 5ostage, L GREY GA residents add tax. Recreatives Industries, Inc. Check Enclosed DIscover/NOVUS® 60 Depot Street, Buffalo, New York 14206 Visa MasterCard Exp.: / Call Toil-Free 1-800-255-2511 www.maxatvs.com Card # Mr. sli'lfill isis Mrs. ^ Qi <» " 0.3 rj rj o Ms.

City_

f00% Satisfaction Guaranteed or Full Refund of Purchase Price at Any Time!

Let us point you in tlie nglit direction CABLE TV Enjoy an active rewarding lifestyle! wmmwm. S\eep (pnrfort Scooter Lifts & Ramps Available. 30 Day Trial '4rrow Quality & Savings You Deserve! ProducI Catalog ^'^^USTABLE BEDS jljj^ Video & 1-800-229-1317 100% UONEY BACK%AflANTEE Brochure 1-800-201-0298 Scooter Discounters

DECEMBER 1998 • THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE • [j| .

Like a Bowlful of Jelly TOY You know it's Christmas when you see CHECKPOINT scores of Santas around town. Two shop- pers recently were standing outside a department store when a rotund Santa went in one side of the revolving door—and out the other side came a skinny Claus. The one shopper nudged the other and said, "Man,

now that's what I really call a diet."

Needle Lift

Even the real Christmas trees were a lit- tle disappointing. As I was putting the star

on the one in my house, I discovered it wasn't a tree anymore. It was an arch.

Twisted View TOt//? ,/OB IS TO TAKE OFF THESE LITTLE 'MADE IN CHINA' STICKERS. Let us recall that not-so-well known Christmas story back in the days when the communists were running the Kremlin. Seems there was a party boss named Rudolf Better Not Pout who was staring out the window on a cold, You know what a truly frightening snowy day and remarked, "It's raining." Christmas experience is? Take your kids His wife looked out the window and dis- through a toy department any day after agreed. "No, comrade, it's snowing." Thanksgiving. It's like playing Russian Hearing this the party boss gets angry with checking account. Roulette your and replies: "It's sunny and warm—and let me remind you that Rudolf the Red knows rain, dear!" Trade-In Value Christmas morning can be traumatic for parents: seeing your son trade his ultra- Our Wish for You sleek and expensive bicycle for the neigh- And so, as Tiny Tim observed, "God bor kid's coloring book. bless us, everyone." -Charles Dickens, "A Christmas Carol"

Oh, Christmas Tree Today's artificial trees are almost too good to be true. They're full, their branches are uniform, their color is good and they're flameproof. But have you ever heard any- body stand next to such a tree, inhale deep and exclaim, "Ahhh... the smell of plastic!"

Present Tense

Something for all of us to consider: What if we woke up Christmas morning and received everything we truly deserve?

Global Celebration Our Christmas trees come from Canada. Outside lights come from the countries of the Far East. Ornaments come from Mexi- co. And the original thought for the celebra- "NOT ONE THANK YOU. tion comes from Bethlehem.

52 • THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE • DECEMBER 1998 Lined Pants

pairs for

if you work in an Ice House, a Skating Rink, or if you just want to cut back on heating bills, you need these easy E-l-a-s-t-i-c Waist Buffalo Plaid-Lined, Heavy-Duty WORK-PANTS!

Rugged twill outside is tight-woven polyester/ cotton. Takes all the abuse you can dish out!

• Brushed flannel inside is soft, pure cotton, double pre-shrunk so they're 100% machine wash & dry easy care! • FIVE POCKETS! Two quarter front pockets, two back pockets, even an inside coin pocket! o Easy-oh full s-t-r-e-t-c-h wM snap front closure and zj Hefty belt loops to wear with or without a belt! Absolutely the Warmest, Comfiest, Toughest Pants a Guy Could Buy! Under $15 a pair. Order Now.

Card # Mr. Mrs. Ms.

City & State 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue

100% Satisfsaction Guaranteed or Full Refund of Purchase Price at Any Peckville, PA 18452 J [[7) ^""^^^J^^ For fastest possible service call 1-800-742-2263 Order 24 hours a day, 7 days a week! I Thermal King 1 JAl

1. 1

Better Than Ever with

pair

plus,

BLACK New Customer Offer! Thermal King ^^flBt d^lEllWS Waterproof Welt locks out slush, mush, and wet right up to the zipperline! Soft, supple man-made uppers repel water, BOOTdVW W W 2 for 57.50 3 for 84.95 wipe clean with a damp cloth! Haband 1600 Pennsylvania Ave., Peckville, PA 18452 You can shovel your driveway, Send D and EEE* Widths then drive straight to the office! pairs of boots. (*add $2 per pair for EEE):

8'/2 N©^^ fhermo//fe® layer goes between I enclose 7 7/2 8 9 9/2 10 10/2 11 12 13 inside fleece & upper to maximize warmth $ for your winter protection and comfort! |g7A9-40H Many'

' It's added warmth without bulk or weight. BLACK BROWN lostage. Plus you get all our standard features: GREY ^BROWN GA residents add sales tax •Warm acrylic fleece lining, top to toe. Check Enclosed Discover/NOVUS® insoles. •Thick foam-padded cushion Visa MasterCard Exp.: / •No-slip, bouncy rubber outsole withsure- grip traction tread. •Full side zipper for Mr. PLEASE PRINT: easy-on, easy-off. •Decorative strap with Mrs. gold-tone buckle for a nice fashion touch. Ms. Duke Habernickel, Pres. Address All this, a terrific price and now for a 1 600 Pennsylvania Avenue limited time only AGE! Peckville, PA 18452 FREE POST Apt. # Order yours today! ^^^^^ : Thermolite is a trademark of DuPont ( 11 Citv

For fastest possible service call 1-800-742-2263 State Zip 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed or Order 24 hours a day, 7 days a week! Full Refund of Purchase Price at Any Time!