0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE 0001 ■ AM7/OAML PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION-THE AMERICAN LEGION

mC. D. DeLoach. Chairman James c Wat|<|ns ^^

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

AMERICAN LEGION NEWS BRIEFS FOR WEEK ENDING 1-11-71+

Robert E.L. Eaton, National Commander of The American Legion, has asked Senator J.W. Fulbright, Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, to convene hearings to assist in the accounting of the 1,200 American servicemen still listed as missing in action as a result of the war in Southeast Asia.

West Virginia voters have OK'd a bonus for West Virginia veterans of Vietnam era service. The bonus will be paid at the rate of $20 per month for each month served m Vietnam or support area, and $10 per month for veterans who served out- side of the Vietnam support area.

Sunday, Feb. 3, will open the beginning of Religious Emphasis Week for The American Legion. "Four Chaplains' Day," on the opening date of the observance, commemorates the 31st anniversary of the heroic and unselfish sacrifice of the Four Chaplains.

* » *

Congress has passed and President Nixon has signed into law (Public Law 93-208) legislation that will enable the Administrator of Veterans Affairs, Donald E. Johnson, to insure that G.I. Bill educational and subsistence allowance will continue to be paid to eligible veterans, wives, widows and children during periods when schools are closed because of the energy crisis.

* * *

After eight consecutive years of membership increases, American Legion member- ship nationally for 1973 totaled 2,696 ,781*, or a decrease of 18,1*75 from the 1972 final total.

» * *

NOTICE TO EDITORS AND ALNS RECIPIENTS

With this edition of American Legion News Service, there is en- closed the annual survey postal card to be filled in by you and returned to us as soon as possible. Please check all pertinent blanks indicating the service you require to fill your needs. Survey cards not returned by Feb. 22, will result in your removal from our active ALNS lists. Your prompt attention to this matter will insure uninterrupted service and will be most appreciated. We thank you for your cooperation.

-alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE 0002 NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James c WatkinS] Director

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

For release 1-11-7U WASHINGTON—(ALNS)-- Robert E.L. Eaton, National Commander of The American Legion, has asked Senator J.W. Fulbright, Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, to convene hearings to assist in the accounting of the 1,200 American servicemen still listed as missing in action as a result of the war in Southeast Asia.

The text of National Commander Eaton's telegram to Senator Fulbright follows: "In a few weeks we shall witness the anniversary date of the Paris agreements ending American participation in the Indo-China conflict. We all were proud and pleased to welcome home the nearly 600 military and civilians who suffered as prisoners of war in that conflict.

"There are still more than 1,200 American servicemen listed as missing in action in that conflict however, some of whom are known positively to have been captured alive by their communist foes. To date, North Vietnam and its allies have callously refused to carry out their responsibilities under the Paris agreements and aid in the repatriation or identification of these missing Americans. "We need to know what has happened to these men whom we sent abroad to fight for their country. We ask, therefore, that you convene hearings of the Committee on Foreign Relations to assist in accounting for these men. The American Legion wholeheartedly supports the request of the of Families of American Prisoners and Missing in Southeast Asia and The Forgotten Americans Committee of Kansas that these hearings be held on January 28, 197J+ - one year and a day after the signing of the Paris agreements."

-alns- WASHTNGTON—(ALNS)--National Commander Robert E.L. Eaton has sent a telegram to President Nixon strongly supporting an appeal by the United Stages Government of the Flannery decision eliminating the oath of allegiance on passport applications. The full text of Commander Eaton's telegram follows:

"The American Legion strongly supports an appeal by the United States Government of the Flannery decision eliminating the oath of allegiance on passport applications. "The Legion and our women's Auxiliary feel most strongly that this issue is of sufficient importance to warrant its consideration by the highest court in the land. I feel certain if the bulk of the American people knew of this court decision they would object most strenuously.

"The January 23 deadline for the Government to indicate its intention to appeal to the Supreme Court is fast approaching. I, therefore, sincerely urge affirmative Government action on this issue."

Identical telegrams were sent to Secretary of State Henry A. Kissinger; Attorney General William B. Saxbe; Robert H. Bork, Solicitor General, Department of Justice, and to Kenneth Rush, Deputy Secretary of State. -alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE 0003 NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

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

For release 1-11-74

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)--West Virginia voters have OK'd a bonus for West Virginia veterans of Vietnam era service.

To be eligible, veterans must have served in the Armed Forces for 90 days or more between August 1, 1964 and March 23, 1973 and must have been legal residents of West Virginia for at least six months immediately before entering service. Those still on active duty may also collect the bonus.

Next of kin of deceased veterans are eligible to receive the bonus to xjhich the veteran would have been entitled, unless his death occurred as a result of service during the Vietnam period, in which case his survivors are entitled to a $400 lump-sum bonus.

The bonus will be paid at the rate of $20 per month for each month served in Vietnam or support area, and $10 per month for veterans who served outside of the Vietnam support area. Up to $400 can be paid to veterans who received the Vietnam Service Medal or Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Vietnam) for service in Southeast Asia. A maximum of $300 can be paid to those \jho did not receive either medal.

In a successful effort to "3e Counted Again," the West Virginia American Legion assisted in promoting passage of the bonus by printing 10,000 2-color bumper stickers and distributing them free to posts throughout the state.

Other states and one territory offering bonuses to Vietnam era veterans are: Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Minnesota, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Vermont, Washington and the Territory of Guam. -alns--

WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—American Legionnaire-Congressman Charles M. Teague of California, died Tuesday, January 1, 1974. Congressman Teague was a long time member of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs and was a member of Ojai American Legion Post 432.

The following telegram was sent to Mr. Alan Teague by National Commander Robert E.L. Eaton:

"I was shocked and saddened to learn of the untimely death of your father. Congressman Teague was an able and respected Member of the Congress and a friend of The American Legion. His contributions to good government and to the cause of the veteran have long been recognized and appreciated. America has lost an outstanding citizen and fine public servant. On behalf of his many friends in the Legion I express our sincere sympathy." -alns-

DES MOINES, IOWA—(ALNS)—Dr. Ralph James (Skin) Laird, 86, former Iowa National Executive Committee-man of The American Legion (1923-1925) , and long-time Department Adjutant of Iowa (1925-1967), died here January 3. A World War I veteran, he was unanimously elected honorary past Department Commander of Iowa in an unprecedented action during the 1961 Iowa Department Convention. -alns- oooa QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James c WatkinS| Director

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

For release 1-11-74

INDIANAPOLIS —(ALNS)—Sunday, Feb. 3, will open the beginning of Religious Emphasis Week for The American Legion. "Four Chaplains' Day," on the opening date of the observance, commemorates the 31st anniversary of the heroic and unselfish sacrifice of the Four Chaplains.

Paying tribute to the Four Chaplains, Legion National Chaplain, the Rev. Jerome D. Fortenberry of St. Louis, Mo., issued the following message regarding Religious Emphasis Week:

"On Feb. 3, 1943. the SS Dorchester, a troopship carrying men to the battles of Europe was torpedoed and sunk by a German submarine. Nearly 700 of the 1,000 men on board lost their lives.

"Of those who died there were four who could have been saved, but who instead chose to give away their lifejackets in order that others might live. They were four men of God—four Chaplains—two Protestant, one Jex^ish and one Roman Catholic.

"As the ship slipped into the sea, they stood on deck, helping others to get away. They had their lifejackets, others had not. They gave and died—others received and lived.

"To every man is given the chance to be great. Some achieve more than others, but all have the capacity for greatness within themselves. To be great does not mean doing great things measured in terms of quantity or magnitude, but rather in the fulfillment of one's self. To be great is simply to become what one is.

"The Chaplains—the Rev. George L. Fox. a minister of the Methodist Church; Dr. Alexander Goode, a rabbi; the Rev. Johnny P. Washington, a Roman Catholic priest; the Rev. Clark V. Poling, a minister of the Dutch Reformed Church—did become what they were and in the fullest sense. They had been created in the image and likeness of God. They fully realized that all men have been so created and when they looked at their fellow passengers, they saw not merely men, but rather brothers—brothers to be cherished and loved.

"We have been counseled to love God with our whole heart, mind, body and soul, and to love our fellowmen as ourselves. This the four Chaplains did. They were one in their love for God and their love for their fellowmen.

"So, we remember, we commemorate their heroism. Their courage strengthens us; their generosity teaches us to be generous; their faith enlivens ours. We are their debtors. The only way we can repay that debt is by doing as they did—by living up to what we are, by being counted again.

"Our Dorchester may not be as dramatic as theirs. It may be no more than the recurring cycle of days. But those days will give us the opportunity, time after time, to prove our love. We must be able to care; we must be able to love. If we do, we will be worthy heirs of their legacy of love. They were counted again—may we be also." -alns- 0005 QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James c WatkinS] Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811 - For release 1-11-74

WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—Congress has passed and President Nixon has signed into law (Public Law 93-208) legislation that will enable the Administrator of Veterans Affairs, Donald E. Johnson, to insure that G.I. Bill educational and subsistence allowance will continue to be paid to eligible veterans, wives, widows and children during periods when schools are closed because of the energy crisis.

Previously, Administrator Johnson had issued regulations enabling eligible persons attending institutions of higher learning to continue to receive their checks,

Public Law 93-208, however, applies to eligible persons under instruction under the G.I. Bill at institutions below the college level, as well as at the college level, and more clearly defines Administrator Johnson'a authority to continue payments in situations where educational institutions may be temporarily closed due to the energy crisis or other emergency conditions.

-alns-

WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—A Belgian association, the Fraternelle due 5 eme Battalion de Fusiliers, of the Fifth Battalion of Belgian Fusiliers, is planning a reunion in the Belgian town of Spa, headquarters site of the U.S. First Army in 1944, in October, 1974, to mark the 30th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge.

The Belgian volunteer unit, attached to the U.S. First Army from December, 1944, until August, 1945, participated in the Battle of Ardennes in the Spa, Stavelot, Malmedy area.

Those interested in attending the celebration may write to Commandant Roger M. Hardy, rue de la Ilotte, 174, Glons 4460, Belgium.

-alns-

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—After eight consecutive years of membership increases, American Legion membership nationally for 1973 totaled 2,696,734, or a decrease of 13,475 from the 1972 final total.

Membership workers noted that 1973 membership still represents the third highest total of any year since 1959, exceeded only by 1971 and 1972, and that the 1974 membership campaign at the start of the new year is running more than 143,000 ahead of the same date a year ago. Confidence was expressed that the 1973 total is not indicative of a trend and that the 1974 results will be back on the plus side.

-alns-

PALATKA, FLA.--(ALNS)—Col. R. Neil Kirkman, 81, former Florida National Executive Committeeman of The American Legion (1925-29), died here recently. A World War I veteran, he also served as Florida Department Commander in 1923-24.

-alns- 0006 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

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

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

AMERICAN LEGION NEWS BRIEFS FOR WEEK ENDING 1-18-74

Vice President Gerald R. Ford will be the 1974 recipient of The American Legion's Distinguished Public Service Awards according to an announcement by Legion National Commander Robert E.L. Eaton.

ft ft *

National Commander Robert E.L. Eaton will define The American Legion's legislative goals before the 94th Congress, Tuesday, March 5, 1974, one of the highlights of the 14th annual Washington Conference.

ft ft ft

The San Diego Padres, choosing second in their opening choices of the recent baseball draft, went for Tucker Ashford, American Legion's 1973 Baseball Player of the Year. ft ft ft

American Legion National Commander Robert E.L. Eaton will be the featured speaker at The American Legion's 40th annual pilgrimage to the tomb of President Abraham Lincoln in Springfield, 111,, on the "Great Emancipator's" birthday, Feb. 12. ft ft ft

President Nixon has designated March 29th as Vietnam Veterans Day. This date is the first anniversary of the day when the last American troops were withdrawn from Vietnam and the last American prisoners of war were freed.

ft ft ft

The Franklin Mint of Philadelphia has honored The American Legion in its "History of the United States'1 series of commemorative medals.

* ft *

Cooperative newspaper advertising materials to help promote the observance of the 55th Anniversary of The American Legion, March 15-17, are now available. The ad layouts, in 3-column and 5-column widths, in either mat or reproduction proof form, may be obtained at no cost from National Internal Affairs Division, The American Legion, P.O. Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206.

ft * *

"BE COUNTED AGAIN"

-alns- 0007 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

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

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

For release 1-18-74

WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—Vice President Gerald R. Ford will be the 1974 recipient of The American Legion's Distinguished Public Service Award, it is announced by Legion National Commander Robert E.L. Eaton.

The award is presented "as deemed appropriate" to honor an individual in public life considered to have made an exceptionally outstanding contribution to the nation.

According to National Commander Eaton, the selection of Vice President Ford for the honor was made some months before his nomination for the Vice Presidency, when Ford was serving as House Minority Leader.

The Vice President, a long time Legionnaire, and a member of Furniture City Post 258 in his home town of Grand Rapids, Michigan, will receive the award on Wednesday, March 6, 1974, during The American Legion National Commander's annual banquet honoring the Members of Congress at the Sheraton-Park Hotel.

The banquet will be a highlight of week-long activities in conjunction with the Legion's annual Washington Conference of national and state executives. Some 2,000 Legionnaires, Members of Congress and their wives are expected to attend the banquet.

Previous recipients of the Legion's Distinguished Public Service Award have been the late Senator Everett Dirksen; former Speaker of the House John W. McCormick; former Representative Carl Vinson; and, Representatives Olin E. Teague, Leslie C. Arends and George H. Mahon. -alns-

INDIANAPOLIS —(ALNS)—National Commander Robert E.L. Eaton will define The American Legion's legislative goals before the 94th Congress, Tuesday, March 5, 1974, one of the highlights of the 14th annual Washington Conference.

The National Commander will appear before the House Veterans Affairs Committee at 10:30 a.m., in the Caucus Room, Cannon House Office Building, and the Legion chief will deliver similar testimony before the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee in Room 1202, Dirksen Senate Office Building, at 2:00 p.m., the same day.

-alns-

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—The San Diego Padres, choosing second in their opening choices of the recent baseball draft, went for Tucker Ashford, American Legion's 1973 Baseball Player of the Year.

Ashford, a former infielder with Memphis Post 1, was voted the most valuable player in American Legion baseball for 1973 during the Legion's held in Lewiston, Idaho, last year.

-alns- 0008 MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION a C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director HEADQUARTERS P. 0. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 0 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811 For release 1-18-74

SPRINGFIELD, ILL.—(ALNS)—American Legion National Commander Robert E.L. Eaton will be the featured speaker at The American Legion's 40th annual pilgrimage to the Tomb of President Abraham Lincoln here on the "Great Emancipator's" birthday, Feb. 12.

Sponsored by Springfield Post 32 of The American Legion, the pilgrimage began when a few of the survivors of the Grand Army of the Republic, members of Post 32 and local Boy Scouts, accompanied by several Illinois National Guard companies marched from downtown Springfield to the Tomb in a tribute to the 16th President.

The pilgrimage has since become one of the top events of the year for Illinois American Legionnaires. -alns-

WASHINGTON—(ALUS)—President Nixon has designated March 29 as Vietnam Veterans Day. This date is the first anniversary of the day when the last American troops were withdrawn from Vietnam and the last American prisoners of war were freed. The action was directly related to the passage of House Joint Resolution 895.

National Commander Robert E.L. Eaton has called upon all members of The American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary to "Be Counted Again" by planning and conducting "appropriate ceremonies and activities" to observe the "one time only" event.

-alns-

WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—The AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department (MTD) , at its Tenth Constitutional Convention, adopted a resolution (No. 14) expressing appreciation to The American Legion for its "long and loyal" support of a strong American merchant marine.

At the convention, MTD resolved: "By the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department that there should be transmitted to The American Legion a copy of this resolution expressing the deep appreciation of all MTD affiliates for the Legion's forthright and unequivocal support of a strong, competitive U.S. Merchant Marine which will aid the nation's security, balance-of-payments deficit and employment situation."

-alns-

WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—The Franklin Mint of Philadelphia has honored The American Legion in its "History of the United States" series of commemorative medals.

Designed by Richard Renninger, the medal lists the date of the Legion's founding, March 15, 1919, on the obverse side of the medal.

The 1919 medal is one of a series of medals minted by The Franklin Mint depicting the 200-year history of the United States.

The medal may be purchased only by persons who have previously subscribed to buy the entire series. -alns- 0009 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

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

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

" For release 1-18-74

WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—Oklahoma has become the first state to initiate a plan to ensure maximum implementation of the Veterans Employment and Readjustment Act of 1972. according to Austin E. Kerby, the Legion's National Economic Director, in a recent report.

Oklahoma Governor David Kail, a staunch supporter of jobs for veterans, met with officials of labor, industry and veterans' organizations to implement a more effective program of service to assist veterans to obtain suitable employment. The Legionnaire Governor appointed Joe V. Adair, Chairman of the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission, and requested the Chairman and Commission to implement Public Law 92-540 at the State level to provide maximum employment service to Oklahoma veterans. The American Legion, and other veterans organizations plus representatives of industry and labor joined with the Governor in a "team effort" to assist all veterans in obtaining suitable employment.

On December 6, the team met with the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission, managers of the thirty-one local employment offices and the ninety-four local Veterans Employment Representatives appointed in accordance with Public Law 92-540. In addition to naming the ninety-four local Veterans Employment Representatives to serve veterans on the local level, the Commission appointed Walter Rapp, Deputy Director of the Oklahoma State Employment Service, to head up the statewide veterans program. Rapp, an active member of the Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars and Disabled American Veterans, has served on the State and National levels on programs involving jobs for veterans. He is presently serving as National Employment Chairman for The American Legion. The Commission also authorized the appointment of four assistants at the State level to coordinate activities at the local office level to provide maximim job assistance to all veterans.

The American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars and Disabled American Veterans have active Employment Committees at the post, district and department levels and will work with the local Veterans Employment Representatives in a more effective program of service to veterans.

Kerby noted in his report that the National Economic Commission hoped that "this will serve as a model for other states."

-alns-

WASHINGTON--(ALNS)—The National Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission has reminded all Department Adjutants to submit their nominations for Certificates of Appreciation to Outstanding Veterans Administration Officials upon their retirement by the February 15, 1974, deadline. Action will be taken by the Subcommittee on Certificates of Appreciation at the up-coming Washington Conference.

All applications should be sent to the Director of the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Division at 1603 "K" Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20006.

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

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

HEADQUARTERS E23 P. O. Box 1055 1608 KSt., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 0 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811 For release 1-18-74

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS) —"Baseball: The Now Career" is the latest addition to The American Legion's library of baseball films.

Narrated by Chuck Connors, the television star who once was a National League first baseman and who still has a deep interest in the sport, the film points out the advantage of baseball as a career.

A host of current and former stars take part in the film. Nolan Ryan, the California fireball pitcher who notched no-hitters against the Detroit Tigers and Kansas City Royals during 1973, is featured with his family in the film, along with present and past stars , Tug McGraw, , Jim Palmer, Vinegar Bend Mizell, Bobby Brown and Joe Garagiola.

Also new and available is a film on the 1973 World Series, with highlights of the Oakland A's thrilling triumph over the Mets for their second straight World Championship.

Both are 16mm color films with sound, The World Series film runs 40 minutes, the other one, just under 30.

In ordering the film, include a $2.50 service charge spelling out a preferred showing date and two alternate dates. Allow at least 30 days between your order and the preferred date. Write directly to: Film Library, The American Legion, P.O. Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206.

Posts may also obtain films from Major League teams in their area or they can be rented from Film Division, 1650 Broadway, New York, NY 10019. -alns-

WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—A Pennsylvania American Legion Post, Ernest M. Kralik Post 18 of Slickville, has attracted considerable attention through sponsorship of a Health-O-Rama.

Using the Post home as a temporary diagnostic clinic, space was provided for area health groups to offer free chest x-rays, tests for glaucoma, high blood pressure, diabetes, anemia and hearing defects.

According to Post Commander T.E. Gruback, the Health-O-Rama was a big success, "acclaimed by participants and non-participants alike." He added, "We feel Legion activities must relate to the total community, and must be advertised accordingly." Gruback urged other Legion posts to consider sponsorship of a similar event "since it means so much and costs so little."

The Slickville Post plans to make the Health-O-Rama an annual event.

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

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

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

AMERICAN LEGION NEWS BRIEFS FOR WEEK ENDING 1-25-74

American Legion National Commander Robert E.L. Eaton has urged Legion officials to write the President, the Secretary of State and their Congressman to register their opposition to "...surrendering any more of our rights to the Panama Canal or the Canal Zone." * * *

The United States Army Reserve will celebrate its 66th anniversary in April, 1974, and at the same time will mark the sixth straight year in which the Army Reserve will be conducting "Community Month."

* * *

The National Economic Commission of The American Legion has called special attention to the 16th annual observance of "Employ the Older Worker Week," scheduled for March 10-16. * * *

Former Indiana Congressman Richard L. Roudebush was sworn in as deputy administrator of the Veterans Administration on Jan. 22.

* * *

In order to focus a greater emphasis on employment of war veterans, especially during the current energy crisis, ALNS will begin publication of dates, sites and contacts regarding Job Fairs and Opportunity Days as they are provided to the news service through the cooperation of the Legion's National Economic Commission.

* * *

Secretary of the Army, Howard H. Callaway, will be the principal speaker before the National Security Commission at the up-coming Washington Conference, scheduled to be held at the Sheraton-Park Hotel, March 4-8.

* * *

One of the key goals of the Children and Youth Commission of the Maine American Legion and Auxiliary—a new state health insurance program to provide financial assistance to families stricken with "catastrophic illness,"—has received strong support from Maine Governor Kenneth M. Curtis.

* * *

Jon Matlack, New York Mets ace pitcher and a product of the Bernard F. Schlegel Post 134's American Legion Baseball Club, will be honored at a Legion testimonial dinner in West Chester, Pennsylvania, Feb. 7.

-alns- 0012 EJMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION- ■THE AMERICAN LEGION C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

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

For release 1-25-74

WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—American Legion National Commander Robert E.L. Eaton has urged Legion officials to write the President, the Secretary of State and their Congressmen to register their opposition to "...surrendering any more of our rights to the Panama Canal or the Canal Zone."

In a policy statement dated January 18, Commander Eaton said that any agreements to cede American de facto sovereignty, obtained under the Treaty of 1903, to the Government of Panama are "absolutely contrary to America's national security interests and to the good order of international commerce."

"The American Legion has for many years stood for undiminished American sovereign control over this invaluable waterway," Commander Eaton said.

In action taken at its most recent National Convention, held in Honolulu in August, 1973, the Legion again reiterated "...its uncompromising opposition to any new treaties or executive agreements with Panama that would in any way reduce our indispensable sovereign control over the U.S. owned Canal Zone or Canal."

The resolution (No. 25) adopted at Honolulu also calls for opposition to the construction of a new, sea-level canal, as advocated by the Atlantic-Pacific Study Commission, as "...needlessly expensive, diplomatically hazardous, ecologically dangerous and subject to the control of foreign governments."

Resolution No. 25 does, however, call for resuming the modernization of the present Panama Canal, as provided in the current Third Locks-Terminal Lake plan legislation introduced and supported by many Congressmen.

-alns-

WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—The United States Army Reserve will celebrate its 66th anniversary in April, 1974, and at the same time will mark the sixth straight year in which the Army Reserve will be conducting "Community Month."

Since inception, the Community Months have provided a basis for a year-round program of involvement in community activities by Army Reserve units throughout the Nation. This has produced a better enlistment and retention rate among reservists, improved reserve unit morale and has brought about a greater public awareness of the Army Reserve's mission as it faces the challenges of the 1970s.

-alns-

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.—(ALNS)—James A. Tadlock, 76, former National Vice Commander of The American Legion (1966-67), died here recently. A World War I veteran, he also served as New Mexico National Executive Committeeman and Department Commander of New Mexico. -alns- 0013 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION- -THE AMERICAN LEGION

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

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

For release 1-25-74

WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—The National Economic Commission of The American Legion has called special attention to the 16th annual observance of "Employ the Older Worker Week," scheduled for March 10-16.

In order to strengthen the annual promotion of employment of older workers, The American Legion's 55th National Convention approved Resolution No. 16, calling for the continuation of the program and noting that the "responsibility for organization and function of this program shall rest with the Department Commander or his designate."

Last year on March 15, President Nixon issued a proclamation which designated the second full week of March as "National Employ the Older Worker Week," at which time he stated, "The employment of men and women who are 45 years of age and over is an important objective—not only for those directly involved, but for our entire country. For their energies, their talents and their experience are a national resource of tremendous value which is not being fully utilized."

Over the years The American Legion has taken an active role in promoting job opportunities for the older worker, especially war veterans, by the presentation of citation awards to employers recommended by departments for such recognition. The Legion's National Employment Committee points out that one way to show our appreciation for employment and retention of the older worker is by presentation of an authorized National Citation Award; and urges all posts to submit a nomination to their Department Headquarters. In turn, Department officials are encouraged to select an employer who deserves due recognition.

The committee has extended congratulations to the folloxjing Departments who gave due recognition during the calendar year of 1973 to employers by presentation of an authorized award for their employment practices and opportunities offered the older worker: Alabama, Alaska, Colorado, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Philippines, South Dakota, Virginia and Wisconsin. -alns-

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Former Indiana Congressman Richard L. Roudebush was sworn in as deputy administrator of the Veterans Administration on Jan. 22. The former commander-in-chief of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and long-time Legionnaire, served ten years in Congress before being appointed to the number two position in the V.A.

-alns-

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Two Legion Departments, Alabama and Oklahoma, have asked their respective State Legislatures to petition the U.S. Congress to "return Veterans Day to its rightful date of November 11th."

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

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

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

For release 1-25-74

JOBS FOR VETERANS

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—In order to focus a greater emphasis on employment of war veterans, especially during the current energy crisis, ALNS will begin publication of dates, sites and contacts regarding Job Fairs and Opportunity Days as they are released to this publication through the cooperation of the Legion's National Economic Commission. Additional information will be carried each month as it becomes available.

SCHEDULED VETERANS JOB FAIRS AND OPPORTUNITY DAYS

DATE LOCATION REMARKS CONTACT

Feb. 7-8-9 Royal Inn at the Veterans Opportunity Mr. Elmo Burns Wharf, San Diego, Days II (Approx. VA Regional Office La. California 4,000) Veterans Opp. Days II 11000 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, Calif. (213) 824-7756

Feb. 18-19 Astro World Military & Veteran Houston, Texas Opportunity Fair (Approx. 4,000)

March Washington, D.C, Operation M/Sgt. Jerry Barran 28-29-30 Homelight V 1143 AB SG (OPMMT) (Approx. 1,500) The Pentagon Washington, D.C. 20330 (202) 697-4110

June Marriott Veterans Opportunity Mr. Elmo Burns 6-7-8 Los Angeles. Days III VA Regional Office La. California (Approx. 6,000) Veterans Opp. Days III 11000 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, Calif. (213) 824-7756

-alns-

SKIATOOK, OKLA. —(ALNS)— J. Milton Patrick, Past National Commander of The American Legion and President of The Exchange Bank, Skiatook, Okla.. has announced major expansion plans for his bank and noted that his oldest son, James, had joined the bank staff as Senior Vice President and Director.

-alns-

CORRECTION; In the 1-18-74 issue of American Legion News Service regarding the Washington Conference, ALNS inadvertently carried the Congressional session as the 94th, it should read, 93rd Congress. -alns- 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION- ■THE AMERICAN LEGION

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

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

For release 1-25-74

WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—Secretary of the Army, Howard H. Callaway, will be the principal speaker before the National Security Commission at the up-coming Washington Conference, scheduled to be held at the Sheraton-Park Hotel, March 4-8.

Secretary Callaway will speak on the status of the U.S. Army today, with emphasis on manning. He is scheduled to address Commission members Tuesday, March 5. Also set to speak before the National Security Commission March 5 Is General Richard H. Ellis, Vice Chief of Staff of the U.S. Air Force.

The following day, March 6, Rear Admiral R.Y. Kaufman, USN, Director of the Strategic Submarine Division and Trident Program Coordinator, and Scott Albright, Executive Director of the National League of Families of Prisoners and Missing in Southeast Asia, will address the Security Commission members.

The chief speakers before the National Economic Commission are slated to be: Robert E. Hampton, Chairman of the U.S. Civil Service Commission; L.J. Andolsek, Commissioner, U.S. Civil Service Commission; and, William Eudey, Assistant Postmaster General, Employee Relations Department, U.S. Postal Service.

-alns-

AUGUSTA, MAINE—(ALUS)—One of the key goals of the Children and Youth Commission of the Maine American Legion and Auxiliary has received strong support from Maine Governor Kenneth M. Curtis.

In a special message to the opening of the Special Session of the Maine Legislature on January 2, Governor Curtis urged the passage of a special tax of two-cents per package of cigarettes to raise $2.8-million in new revenues, the money would be used to start up a new state health insurance program to provide financial assistance to families stricken with "catastrophic illness."

-alns-

WEST CHESTER, PA.—(ALNS)—, New York Mets ace pitcher and a product of the Bernard F. Schlegel Post 134 's American Legion Baseball Club, will be honored at a testimonial dinner here on Feb. 7. Matlack received the Department of Pennsylvania's Major League Player of 1973 Award for Legion baseball graduates.

-alns-

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—James L. Adcox, 24, of Dunn, N.C., a Vietnam era veteran, has joined the Department of North Carolina staff as Department Adjutant. A Marine Corps veteran, Adcox served as a drill instructor at Paris Island, N.C., from March 25, 1969, to March 24, 1971.

-alns-