LEGISLATION Morin: PERA vote urgent National Commander Paul A. Morin is calling for a full mobilization of America’s veterans, and all Americans in general, to contact their U.S. senators to pass the Veterans’ Memorials, Boy Scouts, Public Seals, and Other Public Expres¬ sions of Religion Protection Act of 2006, S. 3696, before the 109th Congress adjourns. FALL MEETINGS “Pundits may call their return on Nov. 13 a lame-duck session, but senators are there to INDEPENDENT COMMISSION do the business of the people, and we expect them to pass this important piece of legislation in OPENS TWO-YEAR STUDY this Congress,” Morin said. “I am asking every member of The American Legion, American By Matt Grills Legion Auxiliary and Sons of Just five months after The The American Legion, indeed American Legion joined four all Americans, to contact their other veterans service organiza¬ senators, mobilize their com¬ tions in forming the Veterans munities to do the same, and Coalition, Inc., members of the activate all Americans who care National Executive Committee deeply about preserving the applauded its swiff creation of a religious heritage given to us by commission that will look our Founding Fathers.” decades into the future to The House passed a measure determine the best way to serve similar to S. 3696 before U.S. veterans. Congress adjourned for the “I am happy to report the election break. Passage of the project is moving along very Senate bill, introduced by Sen. briskly,” said National Com¬ Sam Brownback, R-Kan., will mander Paul A. Morin, who prevent organizations such as opened the annual Fall Meet¬ the ACLU from making ings in Indianapolis on Oct. 18. enormous profits by filing He announced that nine lawsuits under the establish¬ commissioners have been ment clause attacking the Boy appointed to the blue-chip Scouts, public displays of the panel, including Past National Ten Commandments, the Commander Ronald F. Conley. Pledge of Allegiance, and other National Adjutant Robert symbols of American religious Spanogle will serve on the history and heritage - including commission’s board. religious symbols at veterans At the helm of the Veterans memorials. Such cases frequent¬ Coalition is Harry Walters, a ly lead to exorbitant legal fees

former VA administrator and Former VA administrator Harry Walters, now the president of the Veterans Coalition, Inc., ultimately covered by taxpayers. Army assistant secretary. independent of the federal tells the National Executive Committee that the coalition's Commission for the Future of Opponents of S. 3696 have

Introduced by Morin as a “great government and funded outside America's Veterans will operate without a political agenda. James V. Carroll released statements suggesting American, a true patriot, a the federal government by the measure won’t go to a vote fellow Legionnaire and a people who can think and create vision currently eclipsed by troops prepare to enter an before the end of the 109th committed veterans advocate,” without having a political fractious budget and legislative already-strained VA system. Congress. “Pundits in 1944 also Walters explained why the agenda, or a fixed agenda, or a debates in Congress. A final “We need to find a future. wrote off The American Legion’s coalition’s commission to chart hidden agenda,” he told the report will be released by That’s no easy task. And this is advocacy in getting the GI Bill a new course for the Depart¬ NEC. Memorial Day 2008, offering not an unambitious project,” of Rights passed,” Morin said. ment of Veterans Affairs is On Nov. 9, commissioners recommendations on how to Walters said. “No one should sit “Thanks to a massive last- unlike any of its predecessors. met for the first time to begin keep quality high and costs low here thinking we’re going to minute effort by Legionnaires The Commission for the developing a long-term, sustain¬ in veterans health care even as come out in 2008 with every then, the Servicemen’s Readjust- Future of America’s Veterans is able strategy for veterans health hundreds of thousands of “an independent commission, care and benefits programs - a National Guard and reserve See Commission on Page 4 See PERA on Page 5

THE AMERICAN LEGION NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION P.O. BOX 1055 • INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46206 U.S. POSTAGE PAID COMMANDER’S <3 si! MEMBER BENEFITS PERMIT NO. 719 MESSAGE INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46206 Reasons to join, and stay in, Spread the word The American Legion PAGE 2 y 4^ PAGES 6-7 NATIONAL ADJUTANT’S COLUMN CHILDREN & YOUTH LEGISLATION Joy to GIs around CWF awards more Elections impact the world PAGE 3 than $400,000 key committees PAGE 8 PAGE 10 2 IDispatch I NOVEMBER 17,2006

COMMANDER’S MESSAGE PLANNER

NOVEMBER Spread the word: Submit Consolidated Post Reports 20-26 National Family During the 1974 Fall Meetings, the National When The American Legion speaks as a Week Executive Committee passed Res. 7, which collective unit, it’s a much stronger voice than INCENTIVES ENCOURAGE POSTS established “a report form suitable for use by all that of 15,000 individual posts speaking on their TO FILE REPORTS 25-30 Holiday Donor American Legion Posts in reporting their major own. Blood Drive activities and that all Posts be urged to submit Unfortunately, we’re not hearing from 15,000 Adding incentives will increase the records on this form to National Headquarters posts. The Consolidated Post Reports collected number of Consolidated Post DECEMBER ...” Thus was born the this year represent just 46 percent of the posts Reports returned to National Headquarters each year. National 1-31 Holiday Donor Consolidated Post Report, a within The American Legion. Some departments form designed to allow posts return more than 75 percent of their reports. Commander Paul A. Morin has Blood Drive to sing their own praises Every department could do this by taking a few issued a challenge similar to the 7 Pearl Harbor Day regarding their work during steps to improve participation: National Emergency Fund the year. ■ Mention in all correspondences to post Commander's Challenge for the six 25 Christmas The Consolidated Post leadership the importance of the report categories of departments based on size, awarding the highest percent 26 Hanukkah Report is a checklist of and the submission date to department American Legion commis¬ headquarters. of completed forms in each 31 Deadline sions, programs and ■ Mention in department newsletters the category. for National activities - Legislative, importance of the Consolidated Post Report. Under the incentive program: Organization on Veterans Affairs & Rehabili¬ National Commander ■ Recognize at department conventions all those Disability Award tation, National Security, Paul A. Morin posts that turned in their completed forms. ■ Top performing department Public Relations, Economics ■ Department leadership at all levels should keep nominations commanders will receive a and Americanism/Children & Youth - alongside in constant contact, at least every other week, plaque at the National JANUARY spaces that allow posts to write out the ways in with district commanders updating them on Convention. which they excelled in each area. There are boxes which posts have and have not reported. 1 New Year's Day to indicate how many hours were donated at VA ■ Use competition between districts on the ■ Certificates will be given to 5-6 Memberships facilities, how many American Legion Baseball percentage of posts reporting. 98-percent to 100-percent Post Activities teams were sponsored, how many young men ■ Give awards and recognition to district district commanders. were sent to American Legion Boys State, how commanders who achieve 100-percent Planning Session in much blood was donated through The American reporting. ■ The national commander will Indianapolis Legion Blood Donor Program, and how many The Consolidated Post Report is your oppor¬ write a letter to departments citing the departments' success 15 Deadline for 2006 times the post was mentioned on local radio and tunity to tell the story of all the great accom¬ television stations and in the newspaper during plishments of your post. But just as important, stories. nominations the course of the year. It’s an opportunity to tell it’s a chance to tell our story to Congress and the ■ National vice commanders for Employer of the story of your post on an easy-to-fill-out form. rest of the nation. In a few months, when it emphasize the importance in Veterans Award & The Consolidated Post Report is more than a comes time to file your report, please take the their calls to district commanders template for your post’s achievements. The time to do it. It’s not just your story; it’s The Employment Service and during department visits. Award deadline for information gathered in these forms is placed in American Legion’s story. Homeless Veteran a report annually sent to Congress. When I testify in front of Congress and refer to all the Task Force reports work The American Legion is doing, much of 15 Martin Luther what I reference will come from Consolidated King Jr. Day Post Reports. FEBRUARY STILL SERVING AMERICA EDITOR 1 Department Correspondence and letters to the editor: The American Legion Dispatch Steve B. Brooks submissions due Does your post have a unique community P.0. Box 1055 program, an innovative recruiting method or a CONTRIBUTORS for National Law Dispatch Indianapolis, IN 46206 creative way of spreading the Legion message James V. Carroll Enforcement Officer Subscriptions or customer service: that could be implemented at posts across the Matt Grills Published monthly. (317)630-1298 country? Tell us how your post and its members Jeff Stoffer of the Year Award Printed by HNE Printers, Columbus, Ind. are Still Serving America. Annual subscription rate: $15 DESIGNER 4 Four Chaplains All American Legion publications are entitled and encouraged to Editorial office: (317) 630-1352 In submitting your information, include your Matthew Everett reproduce all staff-written stories within, but please credit Dispatch Sunday full name, address and telephone number. Send as the source. to: (317) 630-1280 SUBSCRIPTIONS your items, labeled Still Serving America, to the PatMarschand 4-10 Religious Emphasis A proud member of The National American Legion Press Association. Online: www.legion.org correspondence address at left. Week ACTIVATION 12 Lincoln's Birthday Want to get involved in one of The American Legion1’s many national programs? Do you have a question about veterans affairs, national defense or what is going on in Washington? All you have 19 President's Day to do is pick up the phone or send an e-mail. American Legion Divisions National Emblem Sales Programs Junior Shooting Sports

22 Washington's Americanism/Children and Youth (888) 453-4466 American Legion Baseball (317) 630-1249 Birthday (317) 630-1203 [email protected] (317) 630-1249 [email protected] [email protected] National Security/Foreign Relations [email protected] Legion College 28 Department Service Finance (202)861-2700 www.baseball.legion.org (317) 630-1265 Officers School in (317) 630-1228 [email protected] American Legion Child Welfare Foundation [email protected] Washington [email protected] Public Relations (317)630-1202 National Emergency Fund Internal Affairs (317) 630-1253 www.cwf-inc.org (317)630-1321 (317)630-1330 [email protected] American Legion Endowment Fund [email protected] [email protected] The American Legion Magazine (317) 736-8270 National Oratorical Contest

Legislation (317)630-1298 Boys Nation (317)630-1249 (202)263-2981 [email protected] (317) 630-1207 [email protected] [email protected] The American Legion Library [email protected]

National Convention (317) 630-1366 Family Support Network [email protected] (317) 630-1292 (317) 630-1395 [email protected] Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation (800)504-4098 [email protected] (202) 861-2700 [email protected] [email protected]

■ . ri NOVEMBER 17,20061 Dispatch 13

NATIONAL ADJUTANT’S MESSAGE CHILDREN & YOUTH Joy to GIs around the world Be proactive within the Family Support Network churches, businesses - people from all over started By Robert W. Spanogle sending in donations, both money and items for the By Dennis Boland, Chairman While serving in the Navy during the Vietnam War, packages. Newspapers like the Canton Repository and the National Commission on Children & Youth John Lake Jr. knew the joy of receiving care pack¬ (New Philadelphia) Times-Reporter have been really good ages from home. Now Lake, along with several other Ohio to us in getting the word out.” The continuing global war on terror presents residents, businesses and organizations, is passing that joy What started with one care package is now 3,127 care escalating challenges for today’s military on to more than 1,300 U.S. servicemembers overseas. packages going to 1,302 U.S. servicemembers from 38 families, especially those of the National Guard Since 2003, Lake - the commander of American Legion states. Lake is assisted by his girlfriend, “Willie” Berry, and reserve forces. These citizen-soldiers, subject Carr-Bailey Post 519 in Mineral City, Ohio, has directed a who helps him fill out the customs paperwork. Joining to extended deployments and multiple activa¬ program that ships care packages containing toiletries and them is a staff member at the local library, who looks for tions, often face special problems and concerns. snacks to U.S. military personnel. The program started the names of U.S. military members on the Web site www. When their families do not live close to a simply enough: Randy McRobie, a Legionnaire and Anysoldier.com and then provides Lake with six or seven military installation or existing support services, National Guardsman serving in Iraq, wrote a letter to names a week. The American Legion’s Family Support Network Lake about the difficulty of obtaining simple items like Lake has received hundreds of letters of appreciation can help. toothpaste, toothbrushes and toilet paper. from soldiers who have received care packages through The Family Support Network was created to “He also said we couldn’t go wrong by sending snacks,” his program. He says he’ll keep sending them as long as provide military families a means by which to said Lake, a 39-year Legionnaire. “It’s not really that it’s he can, for one very simple reason. connect to local assistance and support services stuff they can’t get. But one GI told me that he’s in a camp “I was in the Vietnam War in the Navy, and I know through a local American Legion post. Families with 5,000 men, and when the supply truck came, it what it’s like to get a package from Mom and Dad,” Lake in need of assistance can call the nationwide toll- delivered 100 Slim Jims. You can see the problem.” said. “There’s always a smile on a GI’s face during mail free number, (800) 504-4098, or complete an Lake went to his post with a request for $30 to $40 to call when he or she gets something from home. That’s why electronic application at www.legion.org/fsn. send a care package to McRobie. “The post members said, we do this.” The request is sent to the appropriate American ‘How about $300?’” Lake recalled. Here in America, we often take simple items for Legion department, and the department hands That’s when the program caught fire. Mineral City is a granted, like a new toothbrush or a bag of potato chips. down the request to a local post for action. town of about 900 people some 70 miles south of Cleve¬ These are items we are able to purchase whenever we Concerned Legionnaires don’t have to wait for land, and when word got out about Lake’s project, the want. But for deployed U.S. servicemembers, these items a call from the department about a family’s need community and surrounding area got behind it. are much more. They are a touch of home, sent by if they desire to be an active volunteer with the “We got help from the whole state,” Lake said. “The strangers who remember what it feels like to be risking Family Support Network. Some of the most American Legion, fraternal and civic organizations, their lives thousands of miles away. touching Family Support Network stories are ones in which a family didn’t need to call the POW/MIA national help line because the local American Legion post was proactive - and when made Highway dedicated to remembering POWs, MIAs aware of a need, took care of it. This starts when posts enjoy an ongoing relationship with their Thanks to the efforts of Transportation for the local military community, including the leader¬ Legionnaire Gary Reno designation, which finally ship at their local armory and reserve forces - a member of Post 236, happened last fall. training centers. Excelsior Springs, Mo. - his “I see this country Visit the Family Support Network section on state now has a portion of a slipping more and more The American Legion Web site at www.legion. highway dedicated to into forgetting this issue org/support for FSN promotional items, includ¬ remembering the state’s every day,” Reno said. ing brochures, advertisements and radio spots. POWs and MIAs. A 65-mile “When a young adult asked As the nation’s largest veterans organization, stretch of Interstate 35 me what a POW-MIA was, I The American Legion’s commitment to the men running from a half-mile was shocked beyond belief. and women of our armed forces and their south of Bethany to a half-mile north of Kearney has been I chose to dedicate this 65-mile stretch on Interstate 35 to families is absolute. As a grateful nation, we named “the POW-MIA Memorial Highway.” Missouri’s POW-MIAs in hopes that it would spark a must ensure that no family endures unnecessary For two years, Reno - a retired U.S. Army sergeant and grassroots effort, on a state-by-state level, to demand a full hardships caused by military service that ensures Vietnam War veteran - raised money, lobbied state accounting. It would be nice to travel any state in this the freedom we enjoy as Americans. lawmakers and worked with the Missouri Department of nation and see the same signs.”

PATRIOTISM PROMOTIONS Bronx patriot delivers "flag of honor' to National HQ Lincoln Mercury Ronald James Sorenson of Bronx, N.Y., says his time as of which Sorenson is a member, have fought vigorously to continues discount a young boxer in the U.S. Marine Corps shaped the once again make it illegal to deliberately desecrate the rest of his life. Today, he’s still a fighter - one of America’s U.S. Flag. for Legion family staunchest supporters of U.S. Flag protection. In recent months, Sorenson has championed another “When I was a young man, I had two dreams,” Soren¬ banner. “We are now introducing the official MIA/OON A successful 2005 fund-raising effort between son says. “One of them was to become a famous singer. Flag (Missing In Attack On Our Nation),” he said during a The American Legion and Mercury has led the The other was to become a professional fighter. There are recent visit to The American Legion National Headquar¬ auto manufacturer to continue the offer for Legion many famous singers and entertainers. I am extremely ters in Indianapolis, where he presented one of the flags. family members through Jan. 2,2007. proud to serve my country as a veteran who is a volunteer “The colors represent yellow for hope - the hope that Mercury offers Legionnaires, along with and who has been labeled ‘the Intrepid Defender of the those taken by terrorists’ attacks will be returned to their Auxiliary and Sons of The American Legion American Flag.’” loved ones - and the black color in the flag honors those members, an additional $400 discount on any Uniquely titled as such by two members of Congress, who have met their fate. There is an image on the flag of a new Mercury or Lincoln vehicle, in addition to Sorenson has led rallies to protect Old Glory and lobbied mother holding a child’s hand, symbolizing the vulner¬ any current public offers. exhaustively for a constitutional amendment that would ability of all terrorist attacks. It is a flag of honor and Each purchase also generates a $100 donation return to the people the right to protect their flag. The flag remembrance in the hope that terrorism will be eradi¬ to the American Legacy Scholarship Fund, which amendment, which passed overwhelmingly in the House cated.” provides education dollars to the children of U.S. last year, missed the necessary supermajority it needed in Sorenson said he has sent the flag both to President servicemembers killed in active duty on or since the Senate last summer by just one vote. George W. Bush and to former President George H.W. Sept. 11,2001. Sorenson has publicly fought for flag protection since Bush. Purchases by American Legion family mem¬ 1989, when a 5-4 Supreme Court decision interpreted flag He also presented flags to Reps. Vito Fossella, R-N.Y., bers resulted in $118,000 for the fund last year. burning as an act of free speech protected by the U.S. and Carolyn Maloney, D-N.Y., at a rally at Ground Zero Find more information about the program online Constitution. on June 17,2006, and to other select members of at www.mercuryvehicles.com/legion. The American Legibn and the Citizens Flag-Alliance, Congress’-' .A-'.-V.-'V.-W'/.-” 4 IDispatch 1N0VEMBER 17,2006

allow reservists and National Guard Commission from Page I members to use their Montgomery GI solution to every problem. But I can Bill benefits for up to 10 years after assure you that in 2008 we’ll have some separation, the NEC’s resolutions seek ideas. Were looking at an opportunity to other changes, including: persuade and educate the candidates for ■ eliminating the 10-year delimiting the presidency of the United States and period for eligible veterans to use those who are running at the congressio¬ MGIB benefits; nal and the Senate level. The time has ■ indexing the dollar amount of entitle¬ come for new ideas, gentlemen and ments to the average cost of college ladies. We can’t fight with political clout education, reviewed and adjusted forever. If we don’t have new ideas, we annually; will fail. The VA system will go down the ■ terminating the current military tubes.” payroll deduction of $1,200 required As the commission gets to work, it has for enrollment in MGIB; and the approval of VA Secretary Jim ■ giving VA administrative authority for Nicholson and members of congressional both the active-duty and reserve MGIB appropriations committees. All are eager programs. for answers to VA’s dilemma that National Commander Paul A. Morin tells the National Executive Committee that The American Legion must keep transcend short-term, short-lived budget Other Business. With the 109th Con¬ growing. "Membership is not just the responsibility of the membership team, but every member," he said, jhum cycles, Walters said. gress winding down, Morin asked Legionnaires to push their senators for a “If the new (leadership) is Democratic members ahead of last year. Total Force GI Bill. In addition to vote on the Public Expression of Religion and they bring it to a vote, we’re going to Renewals are up, and new members pledging further support to the Veterans Act, or PERA. The House version passed win. It’s that simple. And they’re going to are joining, said National Membership & Coalition project, the National Executive 244-173 on Sept. 26, but Sen. Sam look good having succeeded where the Post Activities Chairman Randall Committee adopted three resolutions Brownback’s companion legislation, Republicans failed,” Brady said. “Sadly, Mitchell. “We must keep the momentum calling for major enhancements to the Senate Bill 3696, has not yet gone to the this is seen as a good thing by politicians. going,” he said, crediting The American Montgomery GI Bill. The proposed floor. The law would prevent judges from We know that the Democrats are looking Legion’s “Heroes to Hometowns” “Total Force GI Bill” would both awarding attorney’s fees in lawsuits over to gain ground with the values vote program and connections to the Army strengthen U.S. servicemembers’ benefits religious imagery on veterans memorials, before ’08, and I think the flag would and Military.com as great opportunities and address inequities between active- public buildings, and state and local help them.” to reach a segment of the eligible veterans duty military and reservists. government seals. In any case, the actual text of the market. Still, personal contact remains In a Sept. 22 joint hearing of the “Some of the most sacred things in amendment - “The Congress shall have the best way to grow the family. House Armed Services Committee and our society are our memorials to our war power to prohibit the physical desecration “Look that member in the eye who has members of the Veterans Affairs Sub¬ veterans, and because of some type of of the flag of the United States” - needs not renewed,” Mitchell said. “Let’s all do committee on Economic Opportunity, religious symbol on them they’re being more publicity, Brady said. He said the our part to ensure that when we arrive in DoD officials argued that there is no challenged,” Morin said. “Why didn’t key is repetition, repetition, repetition. Reno, we can proudly announce to reason to raise GI Bill benefits as long as they challenge them 100 years ago? Why “I’ll say again, we cannot win this on National Commander Paul Morin that enough personnel join and re-enlist with are they doing it now? There’s a money sentiment. We must educate our folks on The American Legion is 2.8 million the reserve components. The American funnel, and it needs to be stopped.” the constitutional arguments,” he members strong.” Legion says these activated citizen Maj. Gen. Patrick H. Brady, chairman continued. “The words will win over logi¬ The NEC also appointed Elmer H. soldiers deserve better, considering their of the Citizens Flag Alliance and Medal cal, reasoning people with open minds, Fuhrhop of Ohio chairman emeritus of expanded role in the war on terrorism. of Honor recipient, said the November but we will never win those people if they the National Children & Youth Commis¬ “Since Guardsmen and reservists do elections would determine the course believe we are attacking speech and the sion based on 11 years of outstanding the same jobs as active duty when called ahead on the flag amendment. He First Amendment, no matter how much service as chairman. In addition, based to active duty, they should have the same expressed disappointment at the amend¬ they love the flag.” on his 22 years of outstanding service as benefits after release,” said National ment’s defeat by a single vote in the As The American Legion pursues chairman of the National Internal Affairs Economic Commission Chairman James Senate last June, citing the duplicity of a these objectives and others, reversing the Commission, the NEC appointed Koutz. “The American Legion’s position handful of politicians. Some voted membership slide remains a priority. On Herman G. Harrington of New York is that of other advocates: reserve benefits against it just because other senators this front, Morin had encouraging news. chairman emeritus. should mirror those of the active-duty were for it, he said, while others seemed “Membership is growing, and that’s what force.” to fear offending the media or their we all need to be excited about,” he said. Matt Grills is an assistant editor at Along with legislation that would financial base in Hollywood. In October, the organization was 96,000 The American Legion Magazine.

RESOLUTIONS their local Children's Miracle Network- 42 Urges the president and Congress to once again commission a warship named managed Commission on the Future for The following are summaries of key affiliated children's hospitals control runaway trade deficits by pursuing USS Ticonderoga America's Veterans to analyze current resolutions passed at the National Executive U.S. claims for fair global trade practices 37 Urges the Department of Defense to conditions and recommend actions on Committee's 2006 Fall Meetings in ECONOMICS allow surviving dependents of uniformed issues concerning veterans 38 Supports elimination of the 10-year Indianapolis. For the full text, contact the INTERNAL AFFAIRS servicemembers, both retired and active, 7 Supports legislation or VA delimiting date for veterans to use Legion Library at (317) 630-1366, 29 Authorizes a recruiting campaign at all to participate in space-available travel administrative action to improve Montgomery GI Bill educational benefits, e-mail [email protected] or levels of The American Legion targeted at management of information technology and legislation allowing reservists and visit www.legion.org. Send a written eligible military personnel currently VETERANS AFFAIRS & within the Department of Veterans Affairs National Guard members to use same request for a booklet of all approved serving on active duty, in the reserve REHABILITATION 10 Authorizes renewal of an agreement benefits up to 10 years after separation resolutions to The Library, The American components or in the National Guard 1 Opposes the rescheduling of The with the National Veterans Legal Services 39 Supports major enhancements to the Legion, P.0. Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN 32 Calls for department, district, county American Legion national commander's Program to provide The American Legion Montgomery GI Bill 46206. and local leaders of The American Legion traditional fall congressional testimony to with representation before the U.S. Court 40 Supports major enhancements to the to forge a cooperative relationship with February of Appeals for Veterans Claims, and AMERICANISM Selected Reserve Montgomery GI Bill American Legion Auxiliary and Sons of The 3 Reaffirms support for "surgery by training for department service officers 48 Seeks legislation or presidential American Legion surgeons" concept within VA eye care, and others FINANCE proclamation to alter, amend or modify ensuring only medically trained surgeons SI Opposes any legislation that does not 11 Authorizes agreement with the certain provisions of the U.S. Flag Code NATIONAL SECURITY perform invasive eye surgery on veterans include provisions to ensure attorney Alliance Defense Fund and the Legal 34 Urges the Department of the Army to 4 Supports legislation granting Filipino competence and proficiency in veterans Liberty Institute to establish and maintain CHILDREN & YOUTH extend eligibility dates for the Combat World War II veterans equal VA benefits law, and other safeguards or oversight a database of veterans memorials 44 Supports the preservation and Action Badge to include all veterans who 5 Supports change in Title 38, U.S. Code, measures to protects claimants' rights throughout the nation protection of the institution of marriage have distinguished themselves while to include pension and death pension as through appropriate federal legislation or FOREIGN RELATIONS exchanging hostile fire with enemies of exclusions to the minimum active-duty a constitutional amendment 41 Urges Congress to increase financial the United States in wartime, dating back statute 45 Encourages American Legion posts and and political support for foreign-exchange to Dec. 7,1941 6 Supports establishment andoperation ■» t.f.t departments to work With'ahd support ‘ ‘ education and scholarship programs ' ’Surges the department of theNavy'to * r T'0f the independently funded and NOVEMBER 17,20061 Dispatch 15

FALL MEETINGS GIBSON REMEMBERED AS MAN WHO SAVED THE Gl BILL to cast the key vote on the By Matt Grills Gl Bill. The Gl Bill is widely hailed as one of the most “I think he would have important pieces of legislation ever passed by swam to Washington, if it had Congress and as The American Legion’s greatest been possible, to cast that achievement. Yet, it came close to not happening. vote,” said Gibson’s son, Save the last-minute vote of one man, U.S. Rep. John Marvin, who served as a S. Gibson of Georgia, the Gl Bill would have died in surgeon during World War II. committee, depriving America’s “greatest generation” a With formal schooling only broad array of veterans benefits that laid the ground¬ through the fourth grade, work for unprecedented national prosperity. John Gibson knew the value of During the National Executive Committee’s October an education. “We lived in a Fall Meetings in Indianapolis, members of the late house with a dining room congressman’s family joined the Department of table, with a lamp bulb Georgia in making a special presentation to The Ameri¬ hanging from an electric cord can Legion. Recognizing Legionnaires’ deep apprecia¬ with a chain around it, and tion of his father’s crucial part in making the Gl Bill a every night when I went to reality, Dr. Marvin Gibson unveiled a portrait of the bed, my father was there elder Gibson, then watched with pride as it was reading law books,” Marvin mounted adjacent to a portrait of Past National Dr. Marvin Gibson looks at a portait of his father, former U.S. Rep. John S. Gibson of Georgia, donated by his said. Gibson passed legal Commander Harry W. Colmery, the landmark legisla¬ family to The American Legion. In 1944, the elder Gibson cast a pivotal vote for the Gl Bill. exams to become an attorney tion’s primary author, in the Founders Room at and, eventually, solicitor National Headquarters. but hit some bumps in the House under Veterans general of his district. His reputation later took him to “I think this is the most important day of my life,” Committee Chairman John Rankin, D-Miss., a segrega¬ Washington, where Gibson took an interest in the care Marvin Gibson said, fighting back tears. “I’m so proud tionist who was concerned that unemployment benefits of those Americans fighting the war. Reports say that of the work that The American Legion does to keep the would also include black veterans. The final draft that when he cast his vote for the Gl Bill, Gibson praised the Gl Bill on the forefront for all to enjoy. We are the left the committee May 3 limited educational and men dying that moment at Normandy, “the greatest leading nation of the world thanks to all of you.” employment benefits and raised the maximum loan invasion in history,” and threatened to denounce In late 1943, as World War II raged on in Europe and amount. It did not discriminate against race, however. anyone who didn’t support the legislation. the Pacific, Congress considered a veterans proposal The bill passed the House 387-0 on May 18, but another Walter Gibson, nephew of the late congressman and offering medical care for the disabled, college tuition for hurdle remained. a Bulloch County commissioner in Georgia, said his a selected few, and vocational training for the rest. The In the joint Senate-House conference committee uncle did not set out to become a leader but became one American Legion said it wasn’t enough. Over Christmas created to reconcile both chambers’ versions, the Gl Bill by his courage to make tough decisions. “He was a man recess, a committee of Legionnaires drafted a “Gl Bill of stalled on the issue of whether VA should have supervi¬ of integrity,” he said. Rights” in just 10 days that covered education, job sory or administrative oversight of the Veterans Following the presentation of the portrait, American training, unemployment insurance, and business and Employment Service. With a final vote set for June 10, Legion National Commander Paul A. Morin honored housing loans. After sending it to Congress in January Rankin refused to cast the proxy vote of an absent Marvin Gibson with a life membership in the organiza¬ 1944, The American Legion launched a coast-to-coast member: Rep. John Gibson, who had returned to tion. He assured him that The American Legion will campaign in support of the bill, placing promotional Georgia. The American Legion went into action, continue to push for major enhancements to the spots on the radio and in theaters. Powerful newspaper enlisting the Atlanta Constitution and local radio Montgomery Gl Bill for the benefit of active-duty publisher William Randolph Hearst lent a hand by stations to put out bulletins. State troopers stopped cars, military personnel, reservists and National Guard editorializing in favor of the legislation, and soon the and a telephone operator dialed Gibson’s home every 15 members. entire country was talking about the Gl Bill. minutes. Finally, at 11 p.m., Gibson returned home from “We’re the major power of the world because of It underwent a few changes in Congress, but The a day of hunting. He agreed to fly to Washington, and at education, and that country boy from south Georgia American Legion’s version of the Gl Bill remained the about 2 a.m., he boarded a plane that had been kept who went six months in the fourth grade can claim a blueprint. It passed the Senate unanimously in March waiting for six hours in Jacksonville. He arrived in time major part,” Gibson said.

MILITARY Morin's call for Kerry apology garners wide attention American Legion National Commander Paul A. “While The American Legion shares the senator’s However, as this issue of the Dispatch went to press, Morin was among the first to call upon Sen. John appreciation for education, the troops in Iraq represent Kerry did indeed apologize, and Morin issued the Kerry, D-Mass„ to apologize for his suggestion that U.S. the most sophisticated, technologically superior following statement: “We accept the senator’s apology for soldiers in Iraq are uneducated. Veterans of Foreign military that the world has ever seen,” Morin said. “The his intemperate remark. We hope that the senator will Wars, AMVETS, and some Republican and Democratic senator’s false and outrageous attack was over the top.” use this opportunity to join with his colleagues in both members of Congress also called for an apology. “And while we are on the topic of education, why houses to pass a Gl Bill that gives members of the “As a constituent of Sen. Kerry’s I am disappointed,” don’t the senator and his comrades in Congress improve National Guard and reserves educational benefits equal Morin said. “As leader of The American Legion, I am the Gl Bill so all of today’s military members - reserves to those received by their regular active-duty outraged. A generation ago, Sen. Kerry slandered his and Guard included - can achieve the educational counterparts. comrades in Vietnam by saying that they were rapists aspirations that the senator so highly values?” the “Both are standing in harm’s way and both deserve and murderers. It wasn’t true then, and his warped view national commander added. educational benefits sufficient to pay for a first-class of today’s heroes isn’t true now.” Morin’s statement was widely reported by the media. education in a decent college. To date, the Congress has While addressing a group of college students at a Shortly after the White House criticized Kerry on Oct. been unwilling to give Guardsmen and reservists the campaign rally in Pasadena, Calif., on Oct. 30, Kerry 31, the senator claimed he was referring to President same benefits given to other servicemembers, and, said, “You know, education, if you make the most of it, Bush in his comments about Iraq. “I make apologies to compounding the error, Congress has not seen fit to you study hard, you do your homework and you make an no one about my criticism of the president and his award any servicemember a level of benefits sufficient effort to be smart, you can do well. If you don’t, you get broken policy that kills and maims our heroes in Iraq to pursue an education full time. It’s time to correct stuck in Iraq.” every day.” this error.”

PER A from Page 1 If passed, the law will forbid judges incentive that groups like the ACLU have “In the Footsteps of the Founders: A from awarding taxpayer-paid attorney’s enjoyed for years. Guide to Defending American Values,” ment Act of 1944 passed, and the rest is fees to organizations that file lawsuits Contact senators by e-mail or obtain published by The American Legion, history. We can do that again to energize against public displays of religious their office telephone numbers through provides detailed information about the U.S. Senate to pass this important symbols at veterans memorials and other The American Legion Legislative Action PERA and is free upon request by legislation.” locations, thus removing a financial Center at 9apwiz.com/legion/home/, e-mailing [email protected]. 6 i Dispatch I NOVEMBER 17,2006

PULL THIS OUT i MEMBER BENEFITS Good Reasons to Join and Si

Save 10% off the Legion Home Benefits moving discounts, real estate SERVICESj MORTGAGE services 2 "Best Available Rate" American Legion and Sons of Legion members can receive preferred savings of 50% or more on interstate (state-to- state) moving, in-transit storage, and personal property- 1 at thousands of participating protection coverage from your choice of two leading national van lines - NorthAmerican and Allied Van Lines. locations throughout the world! Request a free in-home survey and price quote: Call NorthAmerican Van Lines at 1-800-524-5533 nOrthAmeriCan Allied Van Lines at 1-800-871-8864 Reserve your room today at one of these fine hotels: van lines Visit http://legion.myhomebenefits.com for online move planning tools M American Legion and Sons of Legion members can buy or sell a home with expert guidance, a knowledgeable local realtor, and cash rewards, receive professional home buying and selling counseling, connect with a qualified local real estate agent, Get Cash Rewards of up to $1,000 or more (call or see web site for details)

L\ ii i /7 i tff, Talk to a real estate expert — call 800-593-2526 or visit 1 Jiomrd Mohnson http://legion.myhomebenefits.com DAYS INN American Legion and Sons of Legion members receive personal advice, great mortgage rates, and reduced fees on a new home loan or refinance, American Legion - personalized mortgage 1 -800-268-2195 1 -800-769-0939 counseling, VA mortgage options, Full product menu for purchases, refinances, vacation homes, Fast approvals, with minimal paperwork, Competitive rates, low closing fees and $300 member reward Receive a no obligation mortgage pre-approval - call 800-593-2526 or visit http://legion.myhomebenefits.com BONUS REWARDS Get added savings while you simply your move. W I N(. A I I Earn an extra $250 cash bonus when you use all three Legion HomeBenefits services - I N N Motels real estate, mortgage, and moving. Call 800-593-2526 or visit http://legion.myhomebenefits.com 1-877-202-8814 1 -800-889-9706 ATLAS MOVING COMPANY As a valued member of The American Legion or Sons of The American Legion, you qualify for special savings on quality moving services from Atlas. Move with Atlas and receive a competitive discount off your next interstate, household goods move including FVP up to .^^^AmeriHost $75,000 at no cost. For a free, no obligation estimate, contact Ed Anderson of Adas Imlach Movers in Lorain, OH. Travelodge 1,1,1 Interstate Agent Call 440-277-6683 or 1-800-211-5379. Email: Inns ~ I lolcls ~ Suites [email protected]. PUCO 146435-HG Atlas Van Lines, Inc. U.S. DOT No. 125550 1-800-545-5545 1-800-996-2087

Et| irlnAf BUDGET TRUCK RENTAL New Discount Program Offered by Budget Truck Rental 2! Legion members now receive a 12% discount off local or one-way truck I Truck Rental rentals at over 2,700 Budget Truck Rental locations nationwide. To take advantage of this offer, members must reserve rentals in advance by calling 1-888-868-5339 RA M ADA Kn|'n ntS (press option 4) and mention the Legion association account #56000048881. Make the RAMADA UMITEDS • INNS • PLAZA HOTELS BETTER Move with Budget Truck Rental. 1 -800-462-8035 1 -800-682-1071

AMERICAN AMERICAN LEGION WIRELESS For new customers only Get connected with a free cell phone and equipment from American Legion LEGIO N Wireless and discounts on service from T-Mobile, AT&T Wireless, Cingular Your American Legion / SAL ID WIRELESS Wireless and more. Choose from top name manufacturers like Nokia, Sony Ericsson, Motorola, Qualcomm, Panasonic to name a few. Visit The American Number is 20204 Legion Wireless web site at: www.legionwireless.com or call 1-866-318-5461.

: National Car Rental NATIONAL CAR RENTAL. As an American Legion AVIS As a member of American Legion and SAL, you and SAL member, you’ll get unlimited mileage and year- can save 5-25% on daily, weekend and weekly car rentals round discounts off National’s rates at approximately 3,000 locations in 72 countries across AVIS with Avis. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, the globe. For information and reservations, call your travel agent or contact National® call Avis at 1-800-225-7094 for reservations and information or log on to online or at 1-800-CAR-RENT®. Be sure to request Contract I.D. Number 5176669 at avis.com. To receive your discount, be sure to mention your Avis Worldwide time of reservation. Call 1-800-CAR-RENT® (227-7368) or visit www.nationalcar.com Discount (AWD) number: G343600. Renting from Avis means outstanding service and convenience, plus substantial discounts.

AT .AMO CAR RENTAL. Welcome to Alamo Country® Where American Legion and SAL members get unlimited BUDGET SAVE up to 25% off standard time and mileage rates at participating Budget locations worldwide. So, rent from Alamo mileage and year-round discounts off Alamo’s already great Budget and make your next trip a lot more enjoyable. This rates. Book with your travel agent or Alamo®. Be sure to discount is subject to availability and other restrictions. To receive your American request I.D. Number 7000809 at the time of reservation. Legion Discount, mention BCD# T756500 when reserving through your agent Call 1-800-GOALAMO (462-5266) or visit www.alamo.com or Budget at 1-800-455-2848 or visit www.budget.com. NOVEMBER 17,20061 Dispatch 17

UT & HANG UP f Stay with The American Legion

r

TERANS VETERANS HOLIDAYS offers Legion mem¬ __PRESCRIPTIONPRESCRIPTION' SOLUTIONS DAYS bers the opportunity to rent a furnished resort Q/'Yr t TTl/YM'C ^"PacifiCare* FROM PACIFICARE — The American |~|IBI■ condominium for 2-8 people for an entire week jULUl lUlvO Legion approved Medicare Part D plans 3 and pay less than they would for a single hotel from Prescription Solutions from PacifiCare offer a wide range in savings and room. Through the Veterans Holidays “Space-A” rental program, American benefit options intended to meet individual needs. There is no $250 deductible Legion and Sons of The American Legion members can vacation at private on any plan and premiums start under $23 a month in many states. There is resorts, many of which may not be available for rent by the general public. You even a plan that fills the $2,850 coverage gap with generic drugs 1. can review availability, rules, and procedures at www.veteransholidays.com. If you To learn more about your options, just call 1-800-811-5376, do not have Internet access, call 1-877-772-2322 for assistance with finding a (TTY: 1-800-730-9550) 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., seven days a week.

“Space-A” vacation opportunity. Use ID No: 600 when making a reservation. 1 PacifiCare Comprehensive Plan provides coverage through the gap with generic drugs.

Prescription Solutions from PacifiCare Medicare prescription drug coverage plans are offered by PacifiCare Life and Health Insurance Company (PacifiCare Insurance Company in New York), which contracts with the federal government. Prescription Solutions from PacifiCare is offered in AMERICAN^ AMERICAN LEGION TRAVEL — — — I 2J all states but benefits, premiums, limitations and cost-sharing vary by state. sf*LEGION' New Leisure Travel Benefit for Members Launched in May of 2006, this all new online 3 AMERICAN LEGION DISCOUNT and offline leisure travel benefit is designed to provide American Legion mem¬ \> PRESCRIPTION DRUG PROGRAM - bers and their families the benefit and savings of booking flights, hotels, rental —^ RX AMERICA American Legion, Sons of The American Legion, cars, vacations and cruises at the best available rates as well as a dedicated + j American Legion Auxiliary members and dependents American Legion Travel Call Center for assistance before, during and even after save as much as 20% or more on prescription drugs in booking. participating pharmacies, and even greater savings through mail service. The discount Benefit Highlights varies by location, and at no time would a Legion, SAL, or Auxiliary member be • Exclusive discounted vacation packages, as well as a best-price guarantee on charged more than the pharmacy’s everyday retail price. For general customer service, all cruises! questions from the pharmacy or to find the nearest participating pharmacy, or for • Reserve and confirm reservations online questions on mailorder refills, use our convenient toll-free number 1-866-792-6534. • A private, secure site; your information stays completely safe For service at a local participating pharmacy, simply present your current American • Live travel agents to assist you before and after you book your trip Legion, SAL, or Auxiliary membership card. To use the mail order program, simply Who’s eligible? obtain a form from your local Post or by calling the toll-free number, complete the • All American Legion members and their families order and send it to RxAmerica. The mail service is guaranteed to be more cost For more information or to book your next vacation call 1-800-676-1004 or effective than AARP mail order. 1-800-881-7442 for a cruise specialist or visit www.AmericanLegionTravel.com. R )| A D C I I AMERICAN LEGION TERM LIFE IVI nl\ J n INSURANCE The American Legion is pleased to announce effective January 1, 2004, that ReliaStar Life Insurance Company will become the new insurance carrier for The American For new customers only Legion’s Term Life Insurance plans. These plans are available to American Legion • Up to 12% discount on new Dimension and Inspiron systems and Sons of The American Legion members. Call Toll-free 1-800-542-5547 for • Discounted 3-5 day shipping MU more information. • 24 hour Dell hardware telephone technical support • Take advantage of Dell Preferred Accounts for well qualified customers Valuable TRICARE Supplement benefits are available for active duty and retired • Award winning service and support military members. For more information, call 1-800-542-5547. Call 1-800-695-8133 or visit www.dell.com/ghc/ Americanlegion. Member ID: C535524183 AMERICAN LEGION HEALTH AND DENTAL INSURANCE The American Legion offers three new programs to meet the health and dental insurance needs of Legion and SAL members. The Health Insurance Mart works to match members’ health insurance needs to programs available in your community DISH NETWORK. For new customers only Legion Dish (coverage available for your family, too!). The Small Employer Plan provides employee will install up to 2 free Dish Network Satellite receivers for your benefits to businesses with 2 to 50 employees, including Posts and Departments. post or business when you subscribe to qualifying programming. Call 1-877-886-0110 for more information on these plans. Eligible programming packages start at just $27.99. In addition, The Dental Insurance Plan covers routine and more extensive dental work. American Legion members, Sons of The American Legion and Call 1-800-542-5547 for more information on these plans. their families are eligible to receive up to 4 Dish Network Satellite receivers installed May not he available in all states. for free in your home when you subscribe to qualifying programming. Eligible pro¬ gramming packages start at just $31.99 a month. FIRST NATIONAL BANK For more information about Legion Dish and to sign up for DISH Network First National Bank OMAHA services, visit www.legion.otg/benefits or www.legiondish.com or call Omaha MEMBER FDIC 1-866-LEGION9 (534-4669). is proud to offer a variety of financial services to American Legion members. Members can choose from a variety of competitive products that are backed by First National Bank Omaha’s outstanding customer service from the American Legion Visa® Card to Certificates of Deposit and Money Market Accounts. American Legion members can Your eye health is important to us. If it has also take pride knowing that each relationship with First National Bank Omaha will been two years since your last eye help support programs like American Legion Baseball, Boys Nation and the National VISION CARE* examination then it is time to schedule an Oratorical Contest. appointment. That’s why Cole Managed Vision (CMV) and The American Legion have teamed up to offer you discounts on AMERICAN LEGION CERTIFICATES OF DEPOSIT offer a wide variety your eye exams and eyewear. Simply: of terms combined with outstanding rates and FDIC insurance. For current rates or • Call or visit any participating network provider - Sears Optical, Pearle Vision, to open an American Legion CD, call toll free 1-877-709-FNBO (3626). Target Optical, LensCrafters or independent doctor of optometry. THE AMERICAN LEGION MONEY MARKET SAVINGS ACCOUNT • Identify yourself as a member of The American Legion or Sons of The gives investors the flexibility of check writing and competitive rates. First National’s American Legion. FDIC-insured accounts offer tiered interest rates perfect for any investor. Plus, you • Save up to 60% on eyewear. can use your account to deposit interest from your American Legion CD. For current • Use your discounts as often as you want. rates, or to open an account, call toll free 1-877-709-FNBO (3626). To find a location near you, visit www.eyemedvisioncare.com and enter your plan number 9233016 or call 1-866-939-3633. THE AMERICAN LEGION VISA® CARD offers a low introductory APR for the first six billing cycles on new purchases and balance transfers and has no annual fee. For more information, or to apply, call toll free 1-866-LGN-VISA ©TARGET LensCrafters (1-866-546-8472) and mention American Legion offer 50848. Optical Optical

.J 8 IDispatch lNOVEMBER 17,2006

CHILDREN & YOUTH CWF AWARDS $410,000 TO 16 ORGANIZATIONS The 52-year-old American Legion Tools.” This grant will produce and to educate parents about the dangers of result in an autism or related diagnosis. Child Welfare Foundation recently distribute donor registration cards, CDs underage drinking and social hosting awarded $410,569 to 16 nonprofit and other media templates for fund¬ issues. The International Institute for National Exchange Club Foundation of organizations. The foundation provides raising, organ and donor-registration Alcohol Awareness is committed to Toledo, Ohio, received $25,000 for its other nonprofit organizations with a drives. American Legion Auxiliary and preventing the devastating consequences project “National Shaken Baby Syndrome means to educate the public about the Sons of The American Legion sponsor associated with alcohol abuse and Campaign.” The grant will produce needs of children across the United the grant. COTA assists patients who underage drinking by promoting educational kits and brochures and will States. Recipients of the grants were require a lifesaving organ, bone marrow, common sense and cost-effective policies purchase space for billboards to increase selected during the annual meeting of cord blood or a stem-cell transplant. It to address these issues, establishing effec¬ awareness and educate the general public the CWF board of directors at the also works with any patient needing a tive practices for communities to combat on the dangers of shaking babies. Radisson Hotel City Center in Indianap¬ transplant due to a genetic disease, such underage drinking and alcohol abuse, American Legion Auxiliary and Sons of olis in October. Below is a summary of as cystic fibrosis, and all patients 21 and conducting public messaging campaigns The American Legion sponsor the grant. this year’s recipients. younger for any disease or complication. to educate parents and policymakers The National Exchange Club Foundation COTA has assisted more than 1,000 concerning the harm associated with is committed to making a difference in Birth Defect Research for Children, Inc. of families with fund-raising to meet alcohol use by youth, and establishing the lives of children, families and Orlando, Fla., received $14,753 for its transplant-related expenses - that is, partnerships among industry, nonprofit communities through its national project “Birth Defect Prevention Initia¬ what is not covered by insurance - from and parent organizations and communi¬ project: the prevention of child abuse. tive.” The grant will add a "Healthy Baby almost every state and every economic ties to prevent underage drinking and The NEC Foundation’s most successful Resource” section to the BDRC Web site situation. COTA also guides families and alcohol abuse. method of countering abuse is by to provide comprehensive information their volunteers through every step of the working directly with parents through on how to have a healthier baby. Ameri¬ process, including organizing and Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation the parent-aide program. The NEC Foun¬ can Legion Auxiliary sponsors this training the campaign committee, of New York received $35,750 for its dation coordinates a nationwide network grant. BDRC is a 501(c)3 nonprofit planning successful events and activities, project “You Can’t Catch Diabetes From of nearly 100 Exchange Club Child Abuse organization that provides parents and working with the media and finding a Friend.” The grant will produce and Prevention Centers that utilize the expectant parents with information multiple sources of funding. distribute 4,000 copies of a 10-minute parent-aide program and provide about birth defects and support services DVD that will educate children who do support to families at risk for abuse. To for their children. BDRC has a parent¬ Diabetes Camping Association of Hunts¬ not have juvenile diabetes about the date, the NEC Foundation and its matching program that links families ville, Ala., received $15,500 for its project disease. JDRF is the leading charitable Exchange Club Centers have helped more who have children with similar birth “Diabetes Camp Survival Manual: A funder and advocate of type-1 (juvenile) than 140,000 children and 100,000 defects, and it sponsors the National Guide to Help Start or Enhance Pro¬ diabetes research worldwide. The mission families eliminate child abuse in their Birth Defect Registry, a research project grams for Children With Diabetes.” The of JDRF is to find a cure for diabetes and daily lives. that studies associations between birth grant produces and distributes 300 its complications through the support of defects and exposures to radiation, manuals for diabetes camps with research. Since its founding in 1970 by National Marfan Foundation Inc. of Port medication, alcohol, smoking, chemicals, resources camp leaders need to ensure parents of children with type-1 diabetes, Washington, N.Y., received $25,000 for pesticides, lead, mercury, dioxin and safe, effective programs. DECA members JDRF has awarded more than $1 billion its project “Children’s Educational other environmental toxins. are camping and youth leaders and medi¬ to diabetes research, including more than Storybook.” The grant will produce and cal professionals who operate diabetes $123 million in 2006. In 2006, the distribute an illustrated children’s Child Development Resources of Norge, camps and youth programs around the foundation funded 500 centers, grants educational storybook, geared toward Va., received $23,368 for its project world. More than 160 diabetes camps are and fellowships in 20 countries. children 12 and younger, about dealing “Giving Children Their Best Chance.” in North America and another 160 with a diagnosis of Marfan syndrome. The grant will produce and post on a new additional camps around the world. National Association of Students Against Founded in 1981, NMF is dedicated to Web page a developmental checklist for Established in 1997, DECA provides Violence Everywhere (SAVE) of Raleigh, saving lives and improving the quality of parents of children ranging from infants leadership in diabetes medical manage¬ N.C., received $20,000 for its project life for individuals and families affected to age 5. The checklist will also contain ment and nutrition education combined “Youth Voices - Grown-Up Choices!” by Marfan syndrome and related referral information to guide physicians with outdoor recreational programs, The grant will produce and distribute disorders. Together with its National Vol¬ in determining available early-interven- maintains an international database of 7,500 “Back to School” Activity Guides unteer Network, including chapters, tion services in their state. CDR is a diabetes camping programs, and serves and SAVE Youth Violence Prevention support groups and other local contacts, private nonprofit agency founded in 1966 as a resource clearinghouse and network¬ Activity Calendars. American Legion NMF disseminates accurate information, that has won national recognition for the ing center for diabetes camping and Auxiliary and Sons of The American provides support and fosters research. quality of its services to young children youth organizations. Legion sponsor this grant. SAVE is a with developmental delays or who are at nonprofit organization striving to National Meningitis Association of risk for disabilities, and for its training Huntington's Disease Society of America decrease the potential for violence in Marietta, Ga., was awarded $40,000 for and materials provided to families and Inc. of New York received $18,500 for its U.S. schools and communities by its project “Helping to Educate and Lead early childhood and health-care project “Juvenile Huntington’s Disease promoting meaningful student involve¬ the Public on Meningitis Education, or personnel. Handbook.” The grant will produce and ment, education and service opportuni¬ HELP ME.” The grant will produce and distribute 1,000 copies of the “Juvenile ties in efforts to establish, support and distribute DVDs and teachers’ guides to Children Awaiting Parents, Inc. of HD Handbook: A Guide for Physicians, grow SAVE chapters. members of the National Association of Rochester, N.Y., received $9,329 for its Neurologists and Other Medical Profes¬ School Nurses in all 50 states to increase project “The CAP Book - Enhanced.” sionals.” Sons of The American Legion The National Autism Association of Nixa, awareness about meningococcal menin¬ The grant will produce and distribute an sponsors the grant. HDSA is a national Mo., received $14,850 for its project gitis and prevention approaches among enhanced CAP book by combining print nonprofit voluntary health agency “NAA Autism Outreach.” The grant will students and parents. American Legion and DVD media that provide photo dedicated to finding a cure for Hunting¬ produce and distribute copies of 2006 Auxiliary sponsors the grant. NMA is a listings, narratives and video portraits of ton’s disease. It provides vital support, National Autism Conference DVD sets to national nonprofit public charity waiting children and successful adoptive information and educational services to 110 autism organizations throughout the established in February 2001. Its mission families. CAP is a national, not-for-profit improve the lives of those affected by country, providing them with current is to educate families, medical profes¬ charitable organization that recruits HD, and offers resources and guidance information on autism treatment and sionals and others about bacterial menin¬ foster and adoptive families for special- for HD families through a national management. The NAA’s mission is to gitis and prevention approaches to the needs children who have waited the network of volunteer-based chapters and educate and empower families affected disease. In particular, NMA is focused longest for a “forever” family. CAP has affiliates, as well as through its HDSA by autism and other neurological on raising awareness and protection brought together more than 4,000 Centers of Excellence for Family Ser¬ disorders while advocating on behalf of among adolescents and young adults, children and families in its 30 years of vices, and promotes and supports those who cannot fight for their own many of whom can be protected through service. research to find a cure for HD. rights. NAA believes autism is not a education and vaccination efforts. lifelong incurable genetic disorder, but Children's Organ Transplant Association International Institute for Alcohol one that is biomedically definable, and Our Military Kids Inc. of McLean, Va., of Bloomington, Ind., received $40,000 Awareness of Alexandria, Va., received raises public and professional awareness received $46,500 for its project “Our for its project “COTA Volunteer $33,078 for its project “Teens Drink, You of environmental toxins as causative Resources: Web and Media Fund-Raising Lose.” The grant will develop a Web site factors in neurological damage that often See Grants on Page 9 t 5 l ' \ ‘ ' > ( , i l JP J j ‘ . ' 3 7 '.

VETERANS CREATIVE ARTS FESTIVAL THE ART OF HEALING The National Veterans Creative Arts Festival “All of this gives rise to veterans suffering has been going on in its current form since physical and mental disabilities and helps them 1989 and has five artistic divisions: music, realize they still have so much to contribute,” drama, dance, creative writing and visual arts. said VA Secretary R. James Nicholson, who The participants are VA patients who pursue attended the festival’s performance Oct. 22. “It the creative arts through the system’s recre¬ starts a new spark of interest and endeavors in ation-therapy programs. More than 2,800 their lives and is a wonderful therapeutic veterans at 104 VA medical facilities entered exercise for veterans in this country.” this year’s competitions. One hundred-thirty The festival is presented by the Department medal-winning veterans made their way to the of Veterans Affairs, American Legion Auxiliary 2006 festival in Rapid City, S.D., from Oct. 16 and Help Hospitalized Veterans. to 22 for a week of camaraderie, classes, “American Legion Auxiliary is tremendously rehearsals, and a final art exhibition and proud to be a part of the National Veterans performing arts stage show at the Rushmore Creative Arts Festival each year,” Auxiliary Plaza Civic Center Theater. National President JoAnn Cronin said. “We The annual competition recognizes the believe participants at every level of the progress and recovery made through VA’s competition are winners because they have recreation-therapy programs, and raises the experienced healing and recovery through visibility of the creative achievements of the creative expression. We applaud the tremen¬ nation’s veterans after disease, disability or dous talent, courage and determination it takes life crisis. to become a gold-medal winner.”

Photos by Steve Brooks

Dave Blair of Lenmoore, Calif., displays the gold medal-winning saddle he created for the visual-arts competition. An Army veteran, Blair is a patient in the VA Central California Health Care System in Fresno.

Veteran Dwayne Scheuneman of Clearwater, Fla., with dance partner Amie Fishinger, takes Accompanied by singer and fellow veteran Willis Sautbine, Nick Playing a flute he fashioned himself, Albert Gray Eagle of Oklahoma advantage of a dress rehearsal to perfect the pair's routine. Strom of Oklahoma City displays quick feet while tap dancing at the City opens the festival's final show with a haunting instrumental festival's stage show. performance.

Grants from Page 8 arts and tutoring programs that are so care just for them. The staff is specially Auxiliary sponsors the grant. WOS is a important in young lives during this trained to care for pediatric patients and nonprofit organization whose primary Military Kids Informational Materials.” stressful time. appropriate-sized equipment is used. goal is the betterment of women and The grant will produce materials that will children suffering from family violence be used for fund-raising and information Toledo Children's Hospital of Toledo, Women of Substance Ministries, Inc. of and child abuse. Through national dissemination to support the continued Ohio, received $36,941 for its project Lindenhurst, N.Y., received $12,000 for television programming, public speaking expansion of OMK as a national pro¬ “Injury Prevention Booklet for Children itsproject “Development & Distribution and training seminars, WOS educates gram. American Legion Auxiliary and with Special Health-Care Needs.” The of Background Check Handbooks.” The the public about abuse and the resources Sons of The American Legion sponsor grant will produce and distribute 30,000 grant will produce and distribute a available to cope with it. the grant. OMK’s mission is to ensure “Safety Tips for Children with Special manual that teaches specific methods for that the children of deployed and Health-Care Needs” booklet and 2,000 identifying prior sex offenders, including For more information about the Child severely injured reserve and National CDs of the booklet in PDF format. detailed instructions for researching the Welfare Foundation, contact Bill Pease at GqarcJ personnel can afford to participate Toledo, Children’s Hospital began with . backgrounds ofprqspectiye employees, (317) 630.-12,Q2,a,rdudrr\in@,cwf-mq.

DATELINE: CAPITOL HILL Elections change up House committee chairmanships; Senate chairs uncertain

Larry Craig, R-Idaho, will step progress in the 12th District at 1st District - Tim Walz (D), former Ohio secretary of state, By Jimmy Foster, Chairman down from the chair of this press time. The incumbent, Rep. teacher (National Guard, former state representative National Legislative Commission committee and will be succeed¬ John Barrow, led. Persian Gulf) 4th District - Jim Jordan (R), The recent congressional ed by either Sen. Daniel Akaka, 5th District - Keith Ellison (D), state senator, former state elections, coupled with D-Hawaii, or Sen. John Rock¬ Hawaii state representative, attorney representative, former college retirements, will certainly shake efeller, D-W.Va. Akaka is the 2nd District - Mazie Hirono 6th District - Michele Bach- wrestling coach up the chairmanships of various current ranking minority (D), former lieutenant governor, mann (R), state senator, attorney 6th District - Charlie Wilson committees in both chambers. member of the VA panel, former state representative, (D), state senator, former state Listed below are several of the although Rockefeller has attorney Missouri house minority whip, funeral House and Senate committees chaired the committee before. Senate - Claire McCaskill (D), director that handle issues of interest to Idaho state auditor, former state 13th District - Betty Sutton (D), The American Legion, as well as New faces in 110th Congress 1st District - Bill Sali (R), state representative, attorney former state representative, the most likely new committee Following are the new representative and attorney former county councilwoman, chairmen. members of the 110th Congress. Montana attorney House Appropriations. Rep. New senators are listed first, Illinois Senate - Jon Tester (D), state 18th District - Zack Space (D), Jerry Lewis, R-Calif., will step followed by representatives. In 6th District - Peter Roskam (R), senate president, former school city attorney, hotel developer down as chairman. Rep. David cases where a new member is a state senator, former state board chairman, farmer NOTE: A recount was in Obey, D-Wis., longtime ranking veteran, that person’s period of representative and attorney progress in the 2nd District at minority member of the full service is indicated in bold. A 17th District - Phil Hare (D), Nebraska press time. Incumbent Rep. Jean committee, is expected to new member belonging to The (Army Reserve 1969-1975) 3rd District - Adrian Smith (R), Schmidt (R), led by a margin. succeed him. American Legion is indicated congressional aide to retiring state senator, former city The new Appropriations with [AL]. Rep. Lane Evans, D-Ill. councilman, Realtor Oklahoma chairman will face one major Arizona 5th - Mary Fallin (R), lieutenant challenge in the 110th Congress. 5th District - Harry Mitchell Indiana Nevada governor, former state represen¬ Over the past several years, the (D), former state party chair, 2nd District - Joe Donnelly (D), 2nd District - Dean Heller (R), tative appropriations process has not state senator, former mayor, attorney, small business owner Nevada secretary of state, finished before the start of the retired teacher 8th District - Brad Ellsworth former state assemblyman, Pennsylvania new fiscal year. A majority of 8th District - Gabrielle Giffords (D), county sheriff former stockbroker Senate - Robert Casey Jr. (D), spending measures have been (D), former state senator, 9th District - Baron Hill (D), state treasurer, former state passed after Oct. 1 using businesswoman former U.S. representative New Hampshire auditor general, attorney continuing resolutions and (1999-2005), former state 1st District - Carol Shea-Porter 4th District - Jason Altmire (D), omnibus spending bills as California representative (D), social worker former hospital executive, vehicles. A concerted attempt 11th District - Jerry McNerney 2nd District - Paul Hodes (D), lobbyist, former congressional must be made to put this (D), entrepreneur, mathemati¬ Iowa attorney aide process back on track. cian 1st District - Bruce Braley (D), 7th District - Joe Sestak (D), In addition, the party 22nd District - Kevin McCarthy attorney New Jersey retired admiral (Vietnam, changeover will highlight (R), state assembly minority 2nd District - Dave Loebsack 13th District - Albio Sires (D), Lebanon/Grenada, Panama, certain philosophical differ¬ leader, former congressional (D), college professor state assembly speaker, former Persian Gulf) [AL] ences in spending priorities in aide mayor, business owner, sworn in 8th District - Patrick Murphy the House. As all appropriations Kansas to finish remainder of year in (D), attorney (Persian Gulf) bills must come from the House, Colorado 2nd District - Nancy Boyda (D), former Rep. Robert Menendez’s [AL] there is some concern that 5th District - Doug Lamborn pharmaceutical company seat; will be sworn in again to NOTE: A recount was in domestic spending will be (R), state senator, former state executive, chemist serve in 110th Congress progress in the 8th District at pursued at the expense of representative, attorney press time. The incumbent, Rep. defense and national security. 7th District -Ed Perlmutter (D), Kentucky New Mexico Michael Fitzpatrick (R), trailed Senate Appropriations. Sen. former state senator, attorney 3rd District - John Yarmuth NOTE: A recount was in by a margin. Thad Cochran, R-Miss., will (D), former newspaper publisher progress in the 1st District at 10th - Chris Carney (D), college step down as chairman and Connecticut press time. The incumbent, Rep. professor, attorney (Naval likely be replaced by Sen. Robert 2nd District - Joe Courtney (D), Louisiana Heather Wilson (R), led by a Reserve, Persian Gulf) [AL] Byrd, D-W.Va. attorney, former state represen¬ NOTE: Louisiana state law margin. House Judiciary. Rep. John tative requires a runoff when any U.S. Rhode Island Conyers, D-Mich., will assume 5th District - Chris Murphy Senate or House election does New York Senate - Sheldon Whitehouse the Judiciary chair from Rep. (D), state senator, former state not yield a winner with at least a 11th District - Yvette Clark (D), (D), former state attorney James Sensenbrenner, R-Wis. representative, attorney 50-percent majority. The 2nd New York City councilwoman, general, former U.S. attorney Senate Judiciary. Sen. Patrick District race will be decided by a former business development Leahy, D-Vt., will likely become Florida runoff on Dec. 9. executive Tennessee chairman of this powerful 9th District - Gus Bilirakis (R), 2nd District- William Jefferson 19th District - John Hall (D), Senate - Bob Corker (R), former panel, replacing Sen. Arlen state representative, attorney, (D), U.S. representative, vs. former county legislator, former city mayor, former state finance Specter, R-Pa. son of retiring U.S. Rep. Mike Karen Carter (D), state repre¬ school board member, musician commissioner, former developer House Veterans Affairs. Rep. Bilirakis sentative, attorney 20th District - Kirsten Gilli- 1st District - David Davis (R), Bob Filner, D-Calif., is next in 11th District - Kathy Castor brand (D), attorney, former state representative, business¬ line to take the gavel of the (D), county commissioner, Maryland federal housing official man House VA panel, replacing Rep. attorney Senate - Ben Cardin (D), U.S. 24th District - Mike Arcuri (D), 9th District - Steve Cohen (D), Steve Buyer, R-Ind. However, 13th District - Vern Buchanan representative (1987-2006), county district attorney state senator, former county Filner's chairmanship may face (R), auto dealer (National former state delegate, attorney commissioner, attorney an internal challenge from his Guard) 3rd District - John Sarbanes North Carolina colleague from Maine, Michael 16th District - Tim Mahoney (D), attorney, son of retiring 11th District - Heath Shuler (D), Texas Michaud. Both are noted (D), businessman, rancher U.S. Sen. Paul Sarbanes former pro football player, 22nd District - Nick Lampson supporters of veterans and 22nd District - Ron Klein (D), Realtor (D), former U.S. representative would support improved state senator, former state Michigan NOTE: A recount was in (1997-2005), former county tax funding for health care, as well representative, attorney 7th District - Tim Walberg (R), progress in the 8th District at assessor, former teacher. as enhanced Montgomery GI former state representative, press time. Incumbent Rep. Although Lampson won this Bill educational benefits, Georgia minister Robin Hayes (R) led by a margin. seat for the 110th Congress, especially for National Guard 4th District - Hank Johnson Shelley Sekula Gibbs (R) won a and reserve members called to (D), county commissioner, Minnesota Ohio special election on the same day active-duty. attorney Senate - Amy Klobuchar (D), Senate - Sherrod Brown (D), Senate Veterans Affairs. Sen. NOTE: A recount was in - • ■ c county attorney v ■ ; U.S. representative (1993-2006), See Dateline.on Page 11 NOVEMBER 17,20061 Dispatch 111

VETERANS AFFAIRS STUDY: ALS, MILITARY SERVICE LINKED A recent study conducted by the Institute of Medi¬ association between the development of ALS and have indicated that war veterans may have a greater cine has concluded that there is “a limited and military service. ALS is a rare and fatal neurological chance of developing ALS,” Morin said. “The 1991 Gulf suggestive association between the development of degenerative disease with no known cause or cure. War veterans are twice as likely as their non-deployed amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and military “Although more research needs to be conducted to counterparts to develop the disease. In Gulf War service.” identify possible military-related risk factors that cause veterans with ALS in particular, the disease has At the request of the Department of Veterans ALS in veterans, the IOM’s determination that there is manifested at an earlier age than it would normally. Affairs, the Institute of Medicine conducted a review of suggestive evidence of an association paves a path for “The American Legion is hopeful that IOM’s conclu¬ the few existing peer-reviewed studies on ALS, or Lou the VA to make benefits available on a presumptive sions will guide researchers in identifying the risk Gehrig’s disease, in the veteran population to ascertain basis for those whose service in the military may have factors that make servicemembers more susceptible to if an association exists between military service and the caused the disease to develop,” said National Com¬ this horrific disease. Identifying these risk factors will development of ALS and to make recommendations - if mander Paul A. Morin. help in determining necessary protective measures that an association is indicated - that would help to identify This latest finding was most influenced by a 2005 could prevent the illness from ever developing in risk factors. In the IOM report released recently, Harvard University study that indicated that people veterans. We urge VA to conduct studies to determine entitled “Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis in Veterans: with military service were more likely to have died if specific theaters of conflict present greater risk Review of the Scientific Literature,” the IOM committee from ALS than those with no prior military service. factors, and we hope that research on ALS in veterans concluded that there was a limited and suggestive “Even studies conducted within the veteran population might possibly lead to a cure for this horrific disease.”

AMERICAN LEGION COLLEGE American Legion College provides more than training The American Legion National Mark Novak of Lincoln, to us, as well as ways to try to hook some College provides Legionnaires an Neb., one of the posts hit younger members. It was a good week.” intense week of leadership training. For very close to home: Post 3 New Department of Florida Adjutant Michigan Legionnaire Brett Holt, who in Lincoln. Not only is it Michael McDaniel also attended the uses a cochlear implant to hear, it Novak’s home post, but college and came away impressed. provided something more. he’s also the current “I wanted to learn more about The The 2006 Legion College class split commander. American Legion, but the team develop¬ into working groups to analyze specific “When I first found out ment has also been great,” McDaniel American Legion posts and determine that my post was one of said. “The knowledge people have to their needs. Each group also developed a the case studies, I was share here is amazing, to say the least. It’s resolution and attempted to pass it kind of like ‘wow,’” said great to belong to an organization with through a team that consisted of Nation¬ Novak, an Air National such a positive legacy.” al Commander Paul A. Morin, National Guard pilot. “But it was a Morin attended the graduation Americanism and Children & Youth good case study. We have ceremony and offered advice to the Director Marty Justis, and National American Legion National College student Mark Novak defends his study about 2,700 members in graduates. “You have a lot of information group's resolution during the week-long training session. Novak is the com Librarian Joe Hovish. Holt, 44, suggested our post, but we are facing to dispense when you get home. Please mander of Post 3 in Lincoln, Neb . Jim Carroll a resolution calling for the proceedings a declining membership. I do that,” he said. “There will be some of The American Legion National fantastic thing for this organization.” was able to take two or roadblocks along the way, but don’t let Convention and other national meetings Shields was among 40 graduates, three ideas from this week that I can take that despair you. Don’t walk away from to be close-captioned on a viewing screen representing 29 departments, of the 2007 back to the post. And I found out about the enthusiasm you have for The Ameri¬ for hearing-impaired members. The American Legion National College. things that I didn’t know were available can Legion.” group made its presentation Nov. 2. At a Members of the class spent five days banquet that evening, Morin told the undergoing leadership training and also ENROLLMENT CRITERIA class that Holt’s suggestion would be got a first-hand look at post revitalization Qualified Legion College candidates must be Panama, Grenada, Gulf War, or Afghanistan or Iraq war-era reality at the 2007 National Convention for existing posts in a variety of geo¬ veterans with at least two years of American Legion membership. They must demonstrate leadership in Reno, Nev. graphical settings, including a rural area, potential and have successfully completed The American Legion Extension Institute. “This will really benefit some of our the inner city, suburban communities www.legion.org disabled members,” said Holt, a member and a metropolitan area. Click on "Programs/Events" of Post 314 in Shields, Mich. “I think it’s a For American Legion College student

TAPS

Garnett G. Shropshire the National Membership & Post Activities national commander's representative from 1974 to Ramon C. Navarro Raleigh, N.C. Committee from 1958 to 1959. 1975 and 1979 to 1981, National Commission on Quezon City MM, PI Garnett G. Shropshire of Post 1 (Department of Children & Youth vice chairman from 1976 to 1978, Ramon C. Navarro of Post 89 (Department of the North Carolina) passed away Oct. 6 at age 80. He James M. Shade National Distinguished Guest Committee vice Philippines) passed away in 2006 at the age of 83. was a World War II Navy veteran. Inwood, W.Va. chairman from 1982 to 1983, alternate National He was a World War II Army Air Force veteran. Mr. Shropshire served in several department James M. Shade of Post 14 (Department of West Executive Committeeman from 1983 to 1985 and Mr. Navarro served in several department positions, including department commander from Virginia) passed away Oct. 22 at age 74. He was a National Commission on Children & Youth positions, including department adjutant from 1993 to 1994. He also served as National Foreign Korean War Air Force veteran. consultant from 1983 to 1989. 1982 to 1983. He also served as National & Relations Council vice chairman from 1994 to 2005, Mr. Shade served in several department He was a member of the National Veterans Homeland Security vice chairman from 1982 to and National Legislative Council vice chairman positions, including department commander from Preference Committee 1969 to 1976, the National 1984. from 1999 to 2000 and 2002 to 2005. 1981 to 1982. He also served as National Commission on Children & Youth from 1973 to 1979 He was a member of the National Legislative Americanism Council vice chairman from 1972 to and the National Americanism Council from 1981 to Council from 1999 to 2000 and 2001 to 2005, and 1973, National Commission on Children & Youth 1983.

Lampson takes over the seat in Incumbent Rep. Henry Bonilla former city mayor, former former U.S. Navy secretary, Dateline from Page 10 January. She is a physician and (R) did not achieve a 50-percent college professor attorney, author (Vietnam) [AL] to fill the remainder of former currently serves on the Houston majority. At large - Peter Welch (D), state Rep. Tom DeLay’s term. She was City Council. senator, attorney Wisconsin sworn in on Nov. 13 and will NOTE: A December run-off Vermont 8th District - Steve Kagen (D), serve in the lame-duck session will be required to decide a Senate - Bernie Sanders (I), U.S. Virginia physician (of|hq lQ9th Congress before representative (l?Sd-,20ft6),;f L n j Senate -j James W«hh-(D),.-. o/ .1 -. i. t’ A ». . iV/)i (./ THE 2007 MERCURY MONTEGO. IT PROTECTS. BECAUSE THEY SERVED.

I

Mercury and The American Legion help protect and secure the futures of children who lost a parent in the armed forces on or since 9/11. rM The Mercury Montego does its part by providing the kind of safety that compelled the government to award Montego with its highest five-star front and side crash-test rating three years in a row (2005-2007). But the Montego also gives you a way to help those children. If you're a Legionnaire, member of the Auxiliary or SAL, you can join in this fight by purchasing any eligible new Mercury or Lincoln. You'll save S400 on your purchase while an additional S100 is donated to the American MERCURY NEW DOORS OPENED mercuryvehicles.com/legion Legacy Scholarship Fund by Mercury.*

‘Program #32007. Participant must be a Legion member for a minimum of 60 days. eCoupon Bonus Cash toward the purchase or lease of any eligible new Lincoln Mercury vehicle. Offer exclusively for American Legion members, 18 years of age or older, who are Legionnaires, members of the Auxiliary or SAL. Limit one S400 eCoupon offer per American Legion member. For each vehicle sold, Lincoln Mercury will donate S100 toward the American Legacy Scholarship Fund. This offer is in addition to all other offers and is transferable within immediate household. Take new retail delivery from dealer stock between February 15, 2006, and January 2, 2007. See your Lincoln Mercury Dealer for complete vehicle eligibility.

VISIT MERCURYVEHICLES.COM/LEGION TO PRINT OUT A PERSONALIZED S400 eCOUPON THAT CAN BE REDEEMED AT YOUR LINCOLN MERCURY DEALER.

+